DeWalt and Makita are two of the most prominent and reputable power tool brands used by professionals and DIYers. Both companies have been leaders in cordless tool technology and continue to release innovative new products. In 2023, DeWalt and Makita are expanding their cordless platforms and competing to deliver the most advanced tools to meet users’ needs.
This in-depth blog post will compare DeWalt vs Makita across cordless power tools, batteries, ergonomics, pricing, warranties, and other key factors. It will examine their latest offerings and product developments for 2023 to help users determine which brand best fits their needs and budget.
Brief History of DeWalt and Makita
DeWalt was founded in 1924 in Leola, Pennsylvania by Raymond DeWalt as an industrial woodworking machine company. In 1947, the company began producing radial arm saws which became popular among contractors. DeWalt was acquired by Black & Decker in 1960 and started manufacturing portable electric power tools.
In 1994, DeWalt launched its first line of cordless tools including drills, circular saws, reciprocating saws, and more. This helped establish DeWalt as a leader in professional cordless power tools. DeWalt also pioneered slide battery technology in 1996 allowing batteries to slide in rather than plug in.
Makita was founded in 1915 in Nagoya, Japan, and started by selling and repairing electric motors. In 1958, Makita produced its first power tool – a portable electric planer. Makita entered the cordless tool market in 1969 with a rechargeable drill and introduced more cordless tools throughout the 1970s and 80s.
In 2005, Makita released their 18V Lithium-Ion slide battery system which helped popularize the slide battery design. Makita has continued to expand its 18V system over time while also introducing higher voltage cordless tools.
Cordless Power Tool Platforms
DeWalt and Makita each offer several cordless power tool systems utilizing different battery voltages and technologies.
Makita and DeWalt offer the two most prominent professional-grade cordless power tool systems on the market. Both brands continue to expand their cordless lineups and innovate to meet users’ evolving needs. Makita’s core 18V LXT system covers a vast range of tools for construction, industrial, and automotive uses.
They also offer the higher voltage 40V Max XGT line for more demanding tasks. DeWalt’s main 20V Max line serves both DIY and professional users with a focus on the optimal balance of power and runtime. Their FlexVolt system provides 60V Max capability when using FlexVolt batteries while remaining compatible with 20V Max tools.
DeWalt Cordless Platforms
DeWalt offers several cordless power tool systems utilizing different battery voltages and technologies to meet various user needs. Their main 20V Max system powers general DIY and professional tools.
The compact 12V Max line features lightweight tools for tight spaces. FlexVolt tools run on 20V Max or 60V Max batteries for more intensive tasks. Their latest 12V Max Xtreme line fills the gap between 12V Max and 20V Max with brushless power.
20V Max: DeWalt’s main cordless system runs on 20V Max lithium-ion batteries. It covers their general DIY and professional tools.
12V Max: The 12V Max line features compact, lightweight tools for tight spaces or overhead work. Lower voltage for less demanding applications.
FlexVolt: FlexVolt tools run on 20V Max or 60V Max when using FlexVolt batteries. More power for cutting, grinding, concrete, and other intensive tasks.
Xtreme: The latest 12V Max compact brushless tools designed for extreme runtime and durability. Fills the gap between 12V Max and 20V Max.
Makita Cordless Platforms
Makita’s extensive 18V LXT system works with over 325 tools for construction, industrial, automotive, and other applications. Their 12V Max CXT line offers increased portability for overhead tasks.
The higher voltage 40V Max XGT system handles more demanding jobs. All systems use lithium-ion batteries with an emphasis on longer runtimes. Makita aims to provide a wide range of solutions through its cordless platforms.
18V LXT: Makita’s core 18V Lithium-Ion system works with their extensive range of tools for construction, automotive, and industrial applications.
18V CXT: Originally a more compact 18V line, now merged with LXT.
12V Max CXT: Smaller 12V Max line for increased portability and overhead work with less power demand.
40V Max XGT: New higher voltage 40V Max system for more demanding tasks. Backward compatible with 18V batteries.
New Cordless Tool Releases for 2023
Both DeWalt and Makita continue to expand their cordless systems and release new tools. DeWalt’s 2023 additions include new impact drivers, ratchets, oscillating tools, and more for the 20V Max and 12V Max lines.
Makita’s new 2023 cordless tools include higher torque impact wrenches, saws, lawn equipment, and more additions to their 18V LXT and 40V Max XGT platforms. Constant innovation ensures users have access to the latest cordless tool advancements.
Both brands continue to expand their cordless systems and release new tools:
DeWalt 2023 New Tools
- 20V Max Power Detect Brushless Impact Drivers
- 20V Max XR Brushless Ratchets
- 20V Max XR Brushless Bandfile
- 20V Max Atomic Compact Oscillating Multi-Tool
- 12V Max Xtreme Brushless Drill/Driver
- FlexVolt Advantage Circular Saw
Makita 2023 New Tools
- 40V Max XGT Brushless Impact Wrench
- 18V LXT Brushless High Torque Impact Wrench
- 18V LXT Brushless Reciprocating Saw
- 18V LXT Brushless Circular Saw
- 18V LXT Brushless Hammer Drill
- 18V LXT Brushless Hedge Trimmer
Both brands continue pushing cordless tool innovation and filling gaps in their lineups. Makita is expanding its higher voltage 40V Max XGT system while DeWalt keeps building out 20V Max and FlexVolt tools.
Cordless Drills Comparison
Makita and DeWalt both offer high-performance brushless cordless drills. DeWalt’s DCD997 20V Max drill provides 1100 lb-in of torque while Makita’s XPH14 18V LXT drill delivers 1500 lb-in.
The DeWalt has a 3-speed transmission versus 2-speed for the Makita. Both feature LED lights and fast charging. Makita’s drill is more compact while DeWalt focuses on balance. Each brand brings top-tier drilling capabilities.
Cordless drills are the most essential power tool. Here is how DeWalt and Makita flagship drill models compare:
DeWalt DCD997 20V Max XR Brushless Drill
- 1100 lb-in torque
- 0-2000 RPM speed
- 3-speed transmission
- Tool Connect enabled
- LED light
- 5.4 lbs weight
Makita XPH14 18V LXT Brushless Drill
- 1500 lb-in torque
- 0-1900 RPM speed
- 2-speed transmission
- ASSIST mode technology
- LED light
- 3.9 lbs weight
The Makita XPH14 has slightly higher torque though lower speed. The DeWalt DCD997 offers 3-speed settings versus 2 for more control. Both feature advanced brushless motors, LED lights, and fast charging. The Makita is more compact and lighter.
Impact Drivers Comparison
Impact drivers speed up driving and fastening tasks.
DeWalt and Makita impact drivers deliver similar high speeds and impact rates. DeWalt’s DCF887 model offers 1825 in-lbs of torque with a 5.3″ length while Makita’s XDT16 provides 1600 in-lbs in a more compact 4.6″ design.
Makita uses ASSIST technology for precision control. Both brands’ brushless impact drivers combine power, speed, and ergonomics.
Here are DeWalt and Makita’s flagship models:
DeWalt DCF887 20V Max XR Brushless Impact Driver
- 1825 in-lbs torque
- 3250 RPM speed
- 3600 IPM impact rate
- 3-speed settings
- 5.3 in length
- 2 lbs weight
Makita XDT16 18V LXT Brushless Impact Driver
- 1600 in-lbs torque
- 3600 RPM speed
- 3800 IPM impact rate
- ASSIST technology
- 4.6 in length
- 1.9 lbs weight
The Makita is more compact and lighter while the DeWalt offers higher torque. The speed and impact rates are nearly identical. Makita’s ASSIST technology provides automatic torque control for precision fastening.
Circular Saws Comparison
For cutting wood, metal, plastic, and more, circular saws are designed for fast, straight cuts.
The DeWalt DCS570B FlexVolt circular saw runs at 6000 RPM using FlexVolt batteries for faster cuts. Makita’s XSS02Z 18V LXT saw has a max 5800 RPM speed.
The DeWalt provides more cutting depth. Both feature brushless motors, magnesium construction, and LED lights. Each saw balances power and portability to tackle demanding cutting tasks.
Here are DeWalt and Makita’s top cordless models:
DeWalt DCS570B FlexVolt Advantage 60V Max Circular Saw
- 6000 RPM max speed
- 2-9/16 in cut depth
- Magnesium shoe
- LED light
- 7.5 lbs weight
Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Brushless Circular Saw
- 5800 RPM max speed
- 2-3/16 in cut depth
- Aluminum shoe
- LED light
- 7.1 lbs weight
The DeWalt DCS570B runs on FlexVolt batteries to deliver faster blade speeds for quicker cuts. The Makita XSS02Z has a slightly more compact and ergonomic design. Both utilize brushless motors and LED lights to illuminate the cut line.
Reciprocating Saws Comparison
Reciprocating saws feature a back and forth cutting motion for demolition, pruning, and more applications.
DeWalt and Makita offer similar compact, ergonomic brushless reciprocating saws with keyless blade changes and LED lights. The DeWalt DCS388T1 operates at 3000 SPM while the Makita XRJ07 reaches 3200 SPM.
The DeWalt saw has a variable speed trigger for more control. Makita’s saw weighs slightly less at 6.6 lbs. Both deliver fast, efficient cutting and user comfort.
Here are comparable models from each brand:
DeWalt DCS388T1 20V Max XR Brushless Reciprocating Saw
- 0-3000 SPM stroke rate
- 1-1/8 in stroke length
- Variable speed trigger
- LED light
- Tool-free blade change
Makita XRJ07 18V LXT Brushless Reciprocating Saw
- 0-3200 SPM stroke rate
- 1-1/8 in stroke length
- Variable speed trigger
- LED light
- Tool-free blade change
Both feature similar compact, ergonomic designs with tool-free blade changes and LED lights. The DeWalt has a slightly faster stroke rate for quicker cutting. The Makita is a bit lighter at 6.6 lbs vs 7.2 lbs for the DeWalt.
Batteries and Chargers
Cordless tool performance depends heavily on battery technology.
Makita emphasizes longer runtimes with battery capacities up to 18Ah while DeWalt focuses on optimal balance across their range of lithium-ion batteries.
Both offer fuel gauges and rapid chargers that can replenish batteries in 20-30 minutes. Well-matched batteries and fast charging provide the productivity their tools are designed for.
Here is how DeWalt and Makita’s batteries compare:
DeWalt Batteries
- 20V Max: 2Ah to 12Ah capacities
- FlexVolt: 9Ah or 12Ah options
- 12V Max: 1.5Ah to 6Ah sizes
- Uses lithium-ion and FLEXVOLT lithium-ion
- Battery fuel gauge
- Good balance of weight and runtime
Makita Batteries
- 18V LXT: 1.5Ah to 18Ah capacities
- 40V Max XGT: 2Ah to 8Ah
- 12V Max: 1.5Ah to 6Ah
- Uses lithium-ion
- Battery fuel gauge
- Emphasis on longer runtimes
Both offer a wide range of battery capacities to suit different tools and applications. Makita focuses more on extended battery life while DeWalt aims for optimal balance.
Chargers are equally important for conveniently powering batteries. Both brands offer rapid chargers that can replenish batteries in as little as 20-30 minutes.
Ergonomics Comparison
Ergonomic, comfortable designs are crucial for reducing fatigue from extended use.
DeWalt and Makita design their tools for comfort and control through features like rubberized grips, compact sizes, and low vibration.
Makita emphasizes streamlined, lightweight designs while DeWalt focuses more on balance. Users’ preferences and needs determine which ergonomic approach provides the best handling and control. Both brands work to reduce fatigue.
DeWalt Ergonomics
- Rubber over molds on handles
- Lightweight, balanced designs
- Convenient grip positions
- Controlled power output
Makita Ergonomics
- Rubberized grips
- Compact, streamlined tools
- Ergonomic handle shapes
- Low vibration operation
Both brands emphasize user comfort, control, and low vibration. Makita tools tend to have a slimmer profile while DeWalt focuses more on balance. Users’ individual needs and preferences will determine which fits their hand best.
Pricing Comparison
DeWalt tools generally cost slightly less than comparable Makita models.
Makita tools typically cost 10-20% more than comparable DeWalt models. For example, a Makita drill kit may retail for $249 vs. $199 for DeWalt.
Makita’s premium reputation accounts for some of the pricing difference. DeWalt provides greater value for budget-conscious buyers while Makita appeals to those wanting high-end tools.
Here are some example power tool prices:
DeWalt Pricing
- Drill combo kit – $199
- Circular saw – $129
- Reciprocating saw – $129
- Impact driver kit – $159
- Multi-tool – $79
Makita Pricing
- Drill combo kit – $249
- Circular saw – $149
- Reciprocating saw – $149
- Impact driver kit – $199
- Multi-tool – $99
While prices vary by model, Makita tools are typically 10-20% more expensive than DeWalt. Makita’s premium reputation accounts for some of the pricing difference.
Warranty Comparison
A strong warranty provides peace of mind and protects against defects.
DeWalt Warranty
- 3 years limited warranty
- 1 year free service contract
- 90 day money back guarantee
Makita Warranty
- 3 years limited warranty
- 30 day money back guarantee
DeWalt provides a 1 year service agreement plus 90 day satisfaction guarantee. Makita’s standard warranty matches DeWalt but with a shorter 30 day trial period. Both warranties cover defects, not normal wear and tear.
Safety Technology
Key safety tech from DeWalt and Makita includes kickback protection, electric brakes, overload prevention, battery fuel gauges, and LED lighting.
Makita’s ASSIST technology maintains control during fastening. Both brands ensure their tools can be used safely for demanding applications via advanced protective features.
Both brands prioritize user safety with these innovations:
DeWalt Safety Tech
- Kickback braking on saws
- Electric brake on grinders
- Battery charge indicators
- Belt hooks and fasteners
Makita Safety Tech
- Automatic speed control
- Overload indicators
- Battery charge indicators
- Built-in LXT flashlights
Key safety features include kickback protection, overload prevention, battery fuel gauges, and LED illumination. Makita’s ASSIST technology maintains control during fastening tasks.
Smart Technology Integration
In recent years, connected tool technology has emerged.
DeWalt’s Tool Connect system provides fleet management via Bluetooth. Makita’s system focuses more on individual tool performance monitoring and service alerts.
Connectivity and communication between tools, batteries, users, and networks will continue enhancing the user experience.
Here are DeWalt and Makita’s capabilities:
DeWalt Tool Connect
- Bluetooth app integration
- Usage tracking
- Inventory management
- Custom profiles
- Remote disable
Makita Mobile Tools
- Alerts for maintenance
- Usage tracking
- GPS for lost tools
- Firmware updates
- Diagnostic capabilities
DeWalt Tool Connect provides more comprehensive fleet and user management. Makita’s focus is on individual tool performance monitoring and service alerts.
FAQs about DeWalt vs Makita
FAQ 1: Which brand has better battery life, DeWalt or Makita?
Makita batteries tend to have longer runtimes and battery life than DeWalt. Makita offers larger battery capacities up to 18Ah while DeWalt’s largest is 12Ah. Makita emphasizes extended runtimes while DeWalt focuses more on optimal balance.
FAQ 2: Does Makita make FlexVolt batteries like DeWalt?
No, Makita does not make FlexVolt batteries. Their equivalent higher voltage battery system is 40V Max XGT which powers tools up to 40V. It is also backwards compatible with 18V Makita batteries.
FAQ 3: Can DeWalt and Makita batteries be interchanged?
No, DeWalt and Makita batteries are not interchangeable. They use different proprietary battery connections and voltages (20V Max vs 18V), so Makita batteries will not work on DeWalt tools and vice versa.
FAQ 4: Which is better for DIY use, DeWalt or Makita?
Both DeWalt and Makita make excellent tools for DIY use. Key factors are battery compatibility if you have existing tools, along with weight and ergonomics. Makita tools tend to be more compact while DeWalt focuses on power. Overall they are both great DIY brands.
FAQ 5: Do DeWalt and Makita have warranty service centers?
Yes, both DeWalt and Makita have authorized service centers that can repair tools under warranty. DeWalt has over 200 service locations while Makita has a network of over 50 service centers. You can search for locations on their websites.
FAQ 6: Where are DeWalt and Makita tools made?
Most DeWalt tools are made in the USA, Mexico, China, and other Asian countries. Makita manufactures its tools in China, Japan, Mexico, Brazil, and a few other countries. Both brands have global production.
FAQ 7: Which brand offers better brushless motors, DeWalt or Makita?
Both brands use high-quality brushless motors in their tools. Overall, Makita is viewed as having a slight technology edge when it comes to brushless innovation. However, DeWalt brushless motors also deliver excellent performance and efficiency.
FAQ 8: Is DeWalt better for heavy duty use than Makita?
DeWalt is often viewed as better suited for intensive heavy duty use, while Makita emphasizes precision and ergonomics. However, Makita’s tools are also extremely durable for professional use. It depends on the specific tool and application.
FAQ 9: Which brand has better jobsite durability, Makita or DeWalt?
Both brands build very rugged, durable tools meant to withstand harsh job site conditions. DeWalt highlights durability in their designs while Makita emphasizes precision. Overall, both offer excellent job site durability for tradespeople.
FAQ 10: Are DeWalt tools louder than Makita?
Some users report DeWalt tools sounding slightly louder than comparable Makita models. This may be partly due to DeWalt emphasizing power while Makita focuses more on precision. However, both brands continue improving noise reduction in their tool designs.
Key Facts
- Both DeWalt and Makita offer professional-grade power tools and are leaders in the cordless tool market.
- DeWalt tools typically cost slightly less than comparable Makita models. Makita is generally seen as a premium brand.
- Makita emphasizes battery life and runtime in their lithium-ion batteries while DeWalt focuses more on optimal balance of power and runtime.
- DeWalt’s main battery platform is 20V Max while Makita uses 18V LXT batteries on most tools. DeWalt offers 60V Max capability with FlexVolt batteries.
- Makita tools tend to be more compact and lightweight. DeWalt focuses more on power and performance.
- DeWalt has more connected tool capabilities like Bluetooth app integration for tracking and customization. Makita offers onboard modes and features.
- Makita is known for its innovation in cordless tool technology like LXT and 18V slide-style batteries. DeWalt pioneered slide battery tech later adopted across brands.
- Both offer extensive cordless power tool lineups with leading performance in all categories like drills, saws, sanders, grinders, etc.
- Warranties are similar – 3 years limited warranty with 1-year service contract for DeWalt and 3 years limited warranty for Makita.
- In head-to-head comparisons, Makita often has a slight edge in runtime while DeWalt provides more power and torque.
- Quality and reliability are excellent for both brands. Choosing between them comes down to individual needs and preferences.
DeWalt and Makita continue to be at the forefront of cordless power tool technology. Their 2023 product releases demonstrate a commitment to constant innovation and meeting users’ evolving needs.
In summary, DeWalt and Makita both offer professional-grade tools packed with the latest innovations. DeWalt has a slight edge in power and performance while Makita emphasizes runtime, ergonomics, and precision. Makita tools tend to cost a bit more but offer excellent quality.
For most users, choosing between these two excellent brands comes down to individual needs and preferences. Consider tool types, battery needs, budget, and features that best suit your work. Both DeWalt and Makita produce outstanding cordless power tools to increase productivity and take on the toughest jobs.