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Head-to-head · Best Cordless Drills

DeWalt DCD703F1 vs Makita FD07R1

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

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The short answer

DeWalt DCD703F1 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.4 vs 3.9). The gap is mostly about Professionals working in tight spaces — read the strengths below before deciding.

DeWalt DCD703F1
Higher ratedRanked #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
$144.7 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Makita FD07R1
Ranked #5 in Best Cordless Drills
Makita FD07R1
4 sources1 derived

The Makita FD07R1 is a 12V max EXT brushless driver-drill kit designed for compact use and extended runtime. Consumer Reports and tool reviewers praised its brushless motor efficiency and ergonomic design, noting it's well-balanced and comfortable for extended use. The tool's compact size and slide-style battery with LED indicator add convenience, though it sits mid-pack in terms of weight and torque compared to other models in its category. It's ideal for users who value portability and efficiency over maximum power.

Strengths
  • — Brushless motor for increased efficiency, longer runtime, and extended tool life
  • — Compact design with short length from tip to tail for tight space access
  • — Ergonomically designed handle with rubberized soft grip for superior comfort
Watch-outs
  • — Weight of 2.33 pounds may be heavier than some competitors in its class
  • — Max torque of 280 inch-pounds is mid-range compared to higher-end models
Check Price on AmazonFull review →

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 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.

Makita FD07R1

The Makita FD07R1 offers superior ergonomics and a brushless motor compared to the Milwaukee 3403-22 and DeWalt DCD701F2, but it's heavier and has less torque. Unlike the Skil Pwrcore, it lacks a hybrid chuck and USB charging, but it's more durable and efficient. Compared to the Milwaukee M12 Fuel model, it's less powerful but more affordable and ergonomic.

Specs side-by-side

SpecDeWalt DCD703F1Makita FD07R1
Voltage12V12V
Chuck Size3/8 inch3/8
Battery Capacity2000 mAh2.0 amp hour
Weight1.6 lbs2.33 pounds
Speed2-speed transmission0-450 & 0-1,500 RPM
Motor TypeBrushlessBrushless
Battery12V MAX 2.0Ah Lithium12V max CXT Lithium-Ion
Torque—280 inch-pounds
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