Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Cordless Drills

DeWalt DCD701F2 vs DeWalt DCD703F1

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.
The short answer

DeWalt DCD701F2 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.6 vs 4.4). The gap is mostly about Budget-conscious DIYers needing portability — read the strengths below before deciding.

DeWalt DCD701F2
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Cordless Drills
DeWalt DCD701F2
7 sources1 derived$157.9as of Sep 20

The DeWalt Extreme 12V Max DCD701F2 delivers commendable drilling performance for its low voltage class, outperforming many 12-volt competitors in the review. It excels in compactness and convenience, making it ideal for tight spaces and extended use at arm's length. However, the battery insertion mechanism is awkward and the tool is priced higher than alternatives. This model suits users seeking a powerful yet portable 12-volt drill for light to medium-duty tasks.

Strengths
  • Solid drill performance for a 12-volt model
  • Good battery life among 12-volt versions
  • Compact and lightweight at 2 lbs 6 oz
Watch-outs
  • Stiff to insert battery into the tool
  • Expensive compared to other models
DeWalt DCD703F1
Ranked #3 in Best Cordless Drills
DeWalt DCD703F1
4 sources2 derived$144.7as of Sep 20

The DeWalt DCD703F1 is a compact, lightweight 12V drill driver that delivers surprising performance for its voltage class. Reviewers noted it excels in tight spaces and overhead work thanks to its four interchangeable heads, including an offset head that helps reach awkward areas. It outperformed higher voltage models in drilling tests and offers quick-release attachments. However, the single-battery inclusion and finicky attachment system are drawbacks. This tool is ideal for DIYers and professionals working in constrained environments where a compact, powerful 12V option is needed.

Strengths
  • Lightweight design weighing just under a kilogram with battery included
  • Four interchangeable heads including offset, right-angled, and standard heads for versatile use in tight spaces
  • Quick-release system allows fast head changes without tools
Watch-outs
  • Only one battery included in the kit
  • Attachments can be finicky to change and use

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

DeWalt DCD701F2

The DeWalt DCD701F2 is more compact and lightweight than the Milwaukee 3403-22 and M12 Fuel models, but it's more expensive and has a stiff battery insertion mechanism. Compared to the Skil Pwrcore, it lacks a hybrid chuck and USB charging, though it offers better performance. Unlike the Makita FD07R1, it's not as ergonomically designed and has less torque, but it's more affordable and efficient.

DeWalt DCD703F1

The DeWalt DCD703F1 excels in compactness and versatility with its four interchangeable heads, but it's less powerful than the Milwaukee M12 Fuel model. Compared to the Milwaukee 3403-22, it has a better motor and more features, but it's more expensive. Unlike the Skil Pwrcore, it lacks a hybrid chuck and USB charging, but it delivers better performance in tight spaces.

Specs side-by-side

SpecDeWalt DCD701F2DeWalt DCD703F1
Voltage12V12V
Weight2 lbs 6 oz1.6 lbs
Chuck SizeKeyless3/8 inch
Battery12V Max.*12V MAX 2.0Ah Lithium
Battery Capacity2000 mAh
Speed2-speed transmission
Motor TypeBrushless
← See the full ranking of best cordless drills