Dewalt Drills
One thing we realized quickly is that there is very little difference between the twist bit speeds and auger bits speeds for most of these classes—sometimes just a few RPM. For the 18V classes, we only used the auger bit speeds in our internal scoring. Finally, DIY Homeowner drills tested with just a 1/2″ Milwaukee Shockwave Titanium twist bit to keep things simple.
This test simulated the process of framing, as if someone were building a tree house or a partition wall. To prevent overheating, we rested the drills after every 14 screws. We need to note dewalt accessories that some companies list the nominal voltage of the battery , while others use the higher maximum voltage . That said, 18-volt tools are the same as 20-volt tools—it’s just marketing.
Both kits include impact drivers, circular saws, reciprocating saw, grinders, and flashlights. Although it’s less powerful and can’t produce as many strokes per minute as the Milwaukee Sawzall, it’s smaller and weighs only 3.1 pounds (vs. Milwaukee’s at 7.4 pounds) which makes it easier to handle. Milwaukee’s kit also comes with its popular M18 reciprocating saw. Milwaukee has built quite a reputation for their reciprocating saws, which they’ve branded Sawzall.
Milwaukee’s current slogan is “Nothing but HEAVY DUTY,” which speaks volumes about how they view their products and brand. The Milwaukee Electric Tool Company was founded in 1924 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Since the beginning, they differentiated themselves through innovation and top quality. Their first product was the hand shooter, which was the first of its kind, one-handed capacity drill. Milwaukee 18V and DeWalt’s 20V drills have the same power, but Milwaukee has a higher maximum speed of 1,800 RPM compared to DeWalt, which goes up to 1,500 RPM.
A top performer in the compact cordless drill class, the DeWalt Atomic 20V drill replaces the need for a 12V tool. You get a smaller footprint with less weight while getting better performance than you find in DeWalt’s 12V drill. For the absolute best DeWalt drill bits, we recommend their Cobalt Drill Bit Set with Pilot Point. You want to keep these bits a good long time and even possibly sharpen them when they eventually get dull. They use a Pilot point and split tip design so they don’t “walk” or drift when you start drilling.
Even the slightest details—such as the little depression where the forefinger knuckle rubs against the drill body—are accounted for. The handle tapers nicely, allowing the pinky finger to find purchase, and the trigger and forward/reverse control are well positioned for quick use. In general, 12-volt drills are little, but the DeWalt DCD701F2, with its brushless motor, is downright tiny. From tip to tail, the DeWalt 12-volt is less than 6 inches long; it was the shortest drill we looked at. The truth is that the Bosch GSR12V-300B22 is almost a half pound lighter.
After testing three new drills in late 2020, we’ve added two new also-great picks in the compact 18/20-volt category. The end result is information you can trust because of the editorial, scientific, and real-world professional experience we collectively utilize each and every time we pick up and test a tool. We work with more than two dozen professional contractors around the United States who review products for us on real job sites. We consult with them extensively on testing methods, categories, and practical applications. Each year, we bring in and review more than 250 individual products. Our team will put our hands on hundreds of additional tools at media events and trade shows throughout the year.
Once the drill stops, we attach a Gearwrench digital torque wrench. This lets them drill through anything—wood, metal, PVC, concrete, stone, masonry, and more! These bits, however, feel incredibly dewalt tools fast while drilling—especially in concrete. With 9x longer life in multi-material uses over other bits, you’ll want to keep a set in your toolbox to cover anything the job throws at you.
This lightweight ensures that users can continue working without getting worn out by the mere weight of the tool they are carrying. The drill measures 7.8″ front to back which is one of the reasons why it is considered a compact option in the market. Most experts also believe that this compact nature of the drill makes it ideal for individuals that are working in restricted or small spaces. The drill is designed in an ergonomic manner which farther adds to its usability when it comes to control and comfort. The drill comes with two pairs of XR Li-Ion batteries which allow users to work without experiencing any downtime.
So for those reading, Milwaukee is my choice here, especially on a price point — ( . DeWalt’s premium 3-speed drill/driver and 3-speed hammer drill are both made in the USA with global materials. We’re talking tools here, not trucks, but the 3-speed transmissions offer greater control for your specific applications. This can help prevent overdriving a screw or give you more speed when needed. Some people keep more than one battery on hand to ensure there’s enough power to complete a job. Most DIY homeowners can probably get by if they simply recharge the battery when it’s low.