When it comes to cordless drills, few names are as trusted as DeWalt. Known for rugged reliability and jobsite performance, DeWalt drills are favorites among contractors, carpenters, mechanics, and DIYers alike. With options ranging from compact 12V models to powerful 20V MAX XR brushless drills, choosing the best DeWalt drill can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll break down the top models, their strengths, and which one is right for your needs.
Quick Picks: Best DeWalt Drills
- Best Overall: DeWalt DCD791D2 20V MAX XR Brushless Drill/Driver Kit – Compact, powerful, and efficient with long battery life.
- Best Budget: DeWalt DCD771C2 20V MAX Compact Drill/Driver Kit – Affordable, lightweight, and great for homeowners.
- Best Premium: DeWalt DCD996B 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill – Heavy-duty drill with hammer mode for masonry and concrete.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right DeWalt Drill
Not all drills are created equal. Here are the key factors to consider when picking the best DeWalt drill for your toolbox:
- Voltage: DeWalt drills come in 12V and 20V MAX platforms. 12V is compact and lightweight, while 20V MAX delivers more power.
- Motor Type: Brushless motors run cooler, last longer, and provide more runtime compared to brushed motors.
- Torque & Speed: High torque is critical for heavy-duty fastening, while variable speed settings improve precision.
- Size & Weight: Compact drills are best for tight spaces; full-size models handle tougher jobs.
- Batteries: DeWalt 20V MAX XR batteries are known for long runtime and durability.
- Special Features: Hammer drill mode for masonry, LED lights for dark workspaces, and ergonomic grips for comfort.
Detailed DeWalt Drill Reviews
1. DeWalt DCD791D2 20V MAX XR Brushless Drill/Driver Kit
Who It’s For: Pros and DIYers who want the best all-around DeWalt drill.
- Brushless motor delivers 57% more runtime
- Two-speed settings (0-550 & 0-2,000 RPM)
- Compact (6.9″ length) and lightweight design
Pros: Powerful, compact, excellent battery life.
Cons: Pricier than budget models.
Final Verdict: The best overall DeWalt drill, balancing size, power, and efficiency. Check Price
2. DeWalt DCD771C2 20V MAX Compact Drill/Driver Kit
Who It’s For: Homeowners and DIYers looking for an affordable drill.
- 15 clutch settings for precise control
- Two-speed transmission (0-450 & 0-1,500 RPM)
- Lightweight design for all-day use
Pros: Budget-friendly, easy to use, includes two batteries.
Cons: Brushed motor, less efficient than brushless models.
Final Verdict: The best budget DeWalt drill for light-to-medium duty. See More
3. DeWalt DCD996B 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill
Who It’s For: Contractors and DIYers tackling masonry, concrete, and heavy-duty drilling.
- 3-speed all-metal transmission
- Hammer drill mode for concrete/masonry
- Up to 820 unit watts out of power
Pros: Extremely powerful, durable, versatile.
Cons: Heavier and more expensive than compact drills.
Final Verdict: The best premium DeWalt drill for heavy-duty work. Check Price
4. DeWalt DCD708C2 20V MAX Atomic Compact Drill
Who It’s For: Users who want maximum portability.
- Only 6.3″ front to back
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- LED work light included
Pros: Extremely compact, lightweight, great for tight spaces.
Cons: Lower torque than premium models.
Final Verdict: The best compact DeWalt drill for everyday household projects. View Price
5. DeWalt DCD701F2 12V MAX XTREME Drill/Driver Kit
Who It’s For: Homeowners who want a small, lightweight drill for light tasks.
- 12V platform for compact size
- Brushless motor for longer runtime
- LED foot light for visibility
Pros: Lightweight, easy to handle, great for everyday use.
Cons: Not powerful enough for heavy-duty work.
Final Verdict: The best 12V DeWalt drill for light DIY projects. Check Price
Comparison Table: Best DeWalt Drills
| Model | Voltage | Motor | Speed Settings | Best For | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DCD791D2 | 20V | Brushless | 2 Speeds (0-550/0-2,000) | Best Overall | View Price |
| DCD771C2 | 20V | Brushed | 2 Speeds (0-450/0-1,500) | Best Budget | Check Price |
| DCD996B | 20V | Brushless | 3 Speeds | Best Premium | See Price |
| DCD708C2 | 20V | Brushless | 2 Speeds | Best Compact | View Price |
| DCD701F2 | 12V | Brushless | 2 Speeds | Best 12V | Check Price |
FAQ
What is the most powerful DeWalt drill?
The DeWalt DCD996B Hammer Drill is among the most powerful, capable of drilling into masonry and concrete with ease.
Are DeWalt 20V MAX batteries interchangeable?
Yes, all DeWalt 20V MAX batteries work across the entire 20V MAX lineup of tools.
Which DeWalt drill is best for home use?
The DCD771C2 Compact Drill Kit is affordable, lightweight, and perfect for homeowners tackling everyday projects.
What’s the difference between DeWalt XR and Atomic drills?
XR models are built for maximum performance and runtime, while Atomic drills are smaller, lighter, and more compact for portability.
How long do DeWalt drills last?
With proper care, DeWalt drills typically last 5–10 years or longer, especially brushless models.
Conclusion
The best DeWalt drill depends on your needs. For most people, the DCD791D2 offers the perfect mix of power, runtime, and size. If you’re on a budget, the DCD771C2 gives excellent performance at a lower price. And if you’re tackling tough jobs like concrete drilling, the DCD996B hammer drill is the premium choice. No matter your budget or application, DeWalt drills deliver performance and reliability you can trust.
Shop DeWalt drills today and upgrade your toolkit with professional-grade power.