Comparison
DeWalt vs Makita cordless tools compared
Published
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In short
Both are excellent, so choose on the range and batteries you need. Makita LXT has a very wide 18 V range including lots of garden tools, and runs larger tools on two 18 V packs. DeWalt XR is strong on site tools, and its FlexVolt packs run 54 V tools and also fit 18 V tools. Hold both if you can, and check the tools you will add next.
DEWALT
DeWalt DCD805NT: compact 18 V XR, 90 Nm, bare unit
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Makita DHP483Z: 726 g brushless LXT combi, body only
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- DeWalt DCD805NT: compact 18 V XR, 90 Nm, bare unit
- Type
- 18 V hammer drill driver
- Max torque
- 90 Nm
- Weight
- Not stated
- In the box
- Tool, belt hook, bit holder, TSTAK box (no battery)
Check price on AmazonAffiliate link - Makita DHP483Z: 726 g brushless LXT combi, body only
- Type
- 18 V combi drill
- Max torque
- 40 Nm
- Weight
- 726 g
- In the box
- Drill only
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| Product | Type | Max torque | Weight | In the box | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCD805NT: compact 18 V XR, 90 Nm, bare unit | 18 V hammer drill driver | 90 Nm | Not stated | Tool, belt hook, bit holder, TSTAK box (no battery) | Check price on AmazonAffiliate link |
| Makita DHP483Z: 726 g brushless LXT combi, body only | 18 V combi drill | 40 Nm | 726 g | Drill only | Check price on AmazonAffiliate link |
Details as stated in the Amazon listing or by the manufacturer. See the current price on Amazon.
Our verdict
Pick Makita LXT, for example the DHP483, if garden tools and light compact drills matter most. Pick DeWalt XR, for example the DCD805, if you want more drill torque and FlexVolt power for big saws on the same batteries.
DeWalt and Makita are the two cordless brands most UK buyers shortlist first. Both make good drills, drivers and saws, and both have large 18 V battery families, so the decision is less about which drill is better and more about which platform fits the tools you will want over the next few years. This article compares the two systems and a pair of compact drills, using widely documented facts and listing figures.
The battery systems
DeWalt's main cordless range is 18 V XR. Its FlexVolt batteries switch between 18 V and 54 V, so the same pack runs 18 V tools and the larger 54 V tools such as big mitre saws and table saws. DeWalt also has a smaller 12 V XR range. In the US the same 18 V tools are sold as 20 V MAX, which is the same battery measured differently.
Makita's 18 V range is LXT. For bigger tools Makita uses two 18 V packs together, often marked 18 V x2 or 36 V, as on the DSP600 plunge saw and DHR263 SDS drill. Makita also has a separate 40 V max XGT range that uses different batteries, and a 12 V max CXT range. See volts and amp hours explained.
10-cell packs: two strings of five in parallel, still 18 V, double the Ah. Wh = V x Ah.
Range breadth and garden tools
Both ranges cover drills, drivers, saws, grinders, SDS drills, multi-tools, lights and vacuums. Makita's LXT range is especially broad in garden tools, from mowers and hedge trimmers to blowers, so one battery can do house and garden. DeWalt has garden tools too, but its focus is more on site and trade kit, with large FlexVolt saws.
If you already own garden tools on one of these batteries, that is a strong reason to stay. If not, list the five tools you expect to buy and check each brand's current range.
Two compact 18 V drills side by side
These are both bare units, so the battery choice is up to you.
| DeWalt DCD805NT | Makita DHP483Z | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Hammer drill driver | Combi drill |
| Max torque | 90 Nm | 40 Nm |
| Motor | Brushless | Brushless |
| Torque settings | 15 | 20 plus drill |
| Weight listed | Not stated for tool alone | 726 g body only |
| Box contents | Tool, belt hook, bit holder, TSTAK | Drill only |
Ergonomics and feel
Feel is personal. DeWalt drills tend to have a chunky grip and a trigger many people find positive. Makita drills are often slimmer in the handle and lighter in the compact range. Battery shape also changes balance: larger 5 Ah packs make any drill heavier at the base.
If you can, hold both in a shop with the battery size you plan to buy. A drill you are comfortable with gets used more and causes less fatigue.
Warranty and support
Both brands offer extended warranties in the UK when you register the tool within a set time after purchase. Makita listings state 1 year plus a further 2 years when registered within 30 days. DeWalt also offers extended cover on registration. Terms change and can exclude batteries or non genuine parts, so check the brand's UK site before you buy.
Buy from reputable sellers. Copies of both brands circulate online; see how to spot fake Makita and DeWalt tools.
Which should you choose?
Choose Makita if you want one battery for a wide range of garden and power tools, prefer lighter compact tools, or like the idea of twin 18 V tools without new batteries. Choose DeWalt if you want FlexVolt for heavy saws on the same batteries, or the site tools you need are stronger in DeWalt's range.
Our Makita LXT and DeWalt XR comparisons show current drills and what is in each box.
Note:Only use genuine or maker approved batteries and chargers. Cheap copies may lack proper protection circuits and can overheat. Follow each tool's manual.
Frequently asked questions
Can DeWalt batteries fit Makita tools? Not directly. Adaptors exist, but they can bypass protection features and may void warranties. Stay with one platform where you can.
Is DeWalt 20 V stronger than Makita 18 V? No. DeWalt 20 V MAX is a US label for the same 18 V nominal pack. Compare torque and watt hours, not the voltage label.
Which is better for garden tools? Makita LXT has a particularly wide garden range on the same batteries. Check that the specific tools you need are available in the UK.
Which is lighter? It depends on the model. Compare listed weights with the battery size you will use.
What you need
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