Compact DEWALT 12V MAX Drill Driver Review Reveals Power Efficiency and Versatility

  • Brushless motor delivers efficient performance and longer runtime, enhancing productivity on every job.
  • Compact design is 20% shorter, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces without sacrificing power.
  • Bright LED foot light improves visibility, especially in dark or confined areas, ensuring precise work.
  • Lightweight construction at just 1.9 lbs reduces fatigue during extended use, making it comfortable to handle.
SKU: B07TVG85N3 Category:

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Description

Compact Design and Usability

Testing the *DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 3/8-Inch (DCD701F2), I immediately noticed its impressively compact size. Measuring just under 6 inches long, this drill easily fits in tight spaces where larger drills struggle. Holding it feels natural and balanced, especially considering it weighs only about 1.9 pounds without the battery. This makes extended use less tiring, which my coworker quickly appreciated during a recent project involving cabinetry installation. The compact and lightweight design** truly shines in precision tasks and overhead work, making it a solid choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts who value maneuverability.

Performance and Power Delivery

Despite its small stature, this drill packs a punch with its brushless motor that delivers 32% more power compared to earlier models with smaller batteries. The *12V MAX system combined with a 2 Ah lithium-ion battery offers solid torque and impressive runtime. I found drilling through 19mm wood and 6.35mm metal quite manageable, and the drill didn’t bog down under pressure. The 2-speed transmission allows switching between high torque for tougher materials and faster speeds for lighter tasks, which I used often while assembling furniture and tightening screws. The 15 clutch settings** provide excellent control, preventing stripped screws and overdriving—something I always look for in a drill.

Highlights: Versatility and Convenience

Several features stood out that make this drill particularly versatile:

  • Onboard LED light brilliantly illuminates dark workspaces, which saved me on more than one occasion when working inside cabinets or poorly lit corners.
  • The 3/8-inch ratcheting chuck accepts a wide variety of drill bits and driver heads, so I never had to stop and change tools.
  • Variable speed control adds precision, allowing gradual acceleration for delicate tasks.
  • The kit includes two batteries with state-of-charge indicators, a charger, belt clip, and a handy tool bag, offering immediate readiness and portability.

The LED light especially impressed me, as it’s not just a gimmick; it genuinely improves visibility and accuracy in shadowy conditions. My niece, who’s just learning basic woodworking, found this feature very helpful during her first project with me.

Shortcomings: What Could Be Better

Despite many positives, a few limitations exist:

  • The maximum chuck size of 3/8-inch limits the drill to smaller bits, which might frustrate users needing to tackle larger holes.
  • The 2 Ah battery capacity, while decent, isn’t the longest-lasting for heavy-duty jobs, and I wished for a higher capacity option for extended work without interruptions.
  • The plastic construction around the handle and housing, though lightweight, feels less durable compared to some competitors’ metal-reinforced drills.
  • The battery charger speed is average, so charging both batteries takes some time, which could slow down workflow on busy days.

These issues didn’t ruin the experience but are worth considering depending on your specific usage. My coworker prefers heavier-duty drills for construction, but for lighter tasks, this one holds up well.

Price Performance Evaluation

Offering a blend of quality, power, and portability, this drill kit strikes a reasonable balance for its price bracket. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the brushless motor and included accessories justify the investment. For those who need a lightweight, compact tool with enough power for everyday drilling and driving, it represents smart spending. Comparing it to cheaper 12V drills lacking brushless technology, the runtime and efficiency here are noticeably better, which means less downtime and battery swapping. While seasoned professionals might seek higher voltage drills for heavy applications, this kit delivers affordable quality for most household and workshop needs.

Product Comparisons: DEWALT XTREME Versus Competitors

In the realm of compact cordless drills, several competitors vie for attention. The *DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX drill** holds its ground well against models like the Makita XFD10 and Milwaukee M12 Fuel.

Makita’s compact drill offers similar size and weight but usually comes with a slightly smaller battery capacity, resulting in shorter run times. Milwaukee’s M12 Fuel boasts a brushless motor too, but at a higher price point and often heavier, which might deter users prioritizing weight. The DEWALT model excels in balance, blending power, size, and efficiency better than most rivals. However, some competing brands offer larger chuck sizes and longer battery life, so those features might sway buyers.

Safety and comfort features like the onboard LED light and ergonomic grip make this drill stand out for indoor and delicate work, whereas others sometimes compromise on lighting or compactness. Overall, this drill is a solid choice if you want a versatile, portable, and well-rounded tool without paying a premium for niche features.

User Experience and Practical Insights

Sharing this drill with family and friends revealed how user-friendly it is. My dad used it to assemble a bike rack and praised its easy-to-adjust clutch and smooth variable speed. Meanwhile, my sister appreciated the lightweight feel while hanging shelves at home, noting it caused less wrist strain than her older drill. The included tool bag and belt clip make it convenient to carry around a house or job site, reducing the hassle of misplaced tools.

The drill’s LED light was a recurring favorite across users, especially in low-light garages and attics. One downside reported by a friend was the slight delay in switching speeds when toggling between the two-speed transmission, but this was minor and didn’t impact overall performance.

Summary of Boons

  • Compact and lightweight design enhances maneuverability and reduces fatigue.
  • Powerful brushless motor ensures efficient performance and longer runtime.
  • LED foot light significantly improves work in dim environments.
  • Two-speed transmission and 15 clutch settings offer great versatility.
  • Kit includes two batteries with charge indicators and a charger for convenience.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

  • Chuck size limited to 3/8-inch, restricting the size of drill bits.
  • Battery capacity could be higher for extended heavy-duty use.
  • Build quality feels slightly less robust due to plastic components.
  • Battery charger speed is moderate, leading to longer recharge times.

Having tested this tool extensively, it’s clear that the *DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX 3/8-inch drill/driver** is a practical, well-engineered option for users seeking a balance between power, size, and convenience. Whether tackling home improvement projects or professional tasks requiring precision, its features mostly deliver on promises, with a few trade-offs expected in this category.

Additional information

Brand

‎DEWALT

Power Source

‎hand_powered

Maximum Rotational Speed

‎1500 RPM

Voltage

‎12 Volts

Amperage

‎2 Amps

Maximum Chuck Size

‎20 Millimeters

Color

‎Multi

Included Components

‎(1) DCD701B – 12V MAX* Brushless 3/8 in. Drill/Driver, (2) DCB122 – 12V MAX* batteries with state of charge indicator, (1) DCB112 – 12V and 20V MAX* charger, (1) Belt Clip, (1) Tool Bag

Special Feature

‎Variable Speed

Product Dimensions

‎9.1"L x 9.1"W x 9.1"H

Material

‎Blend

Number of Speeds

‎2

Maximum Power

‎300 Watts

Drill Type

‎Basic Drill

Battery Capacity

‎2 Amp Hours

Is Electric

‎Yes

UPC

‎885911603850

Drilling Capacity Wood

‎19 Millimeters

Manufacturer

‎DEWALT

Drilling Capacity Metal

‎6.35 Millimeters

Part Number

‎DCD701F2

Item Weight

‎1.9 pounds

Item model number

‎DCD701F2

Batteries

‎1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included)

Is Discontinued By Manufacturer

‎No

Size

‎One Size

Style

‎Classic

Finish

‎Brushed

Pattern

‎Solid

Shape

‎Rectangular

Item Package Quantity

‎1

Special Features

‎Variable Speed

Batteries Included

‎Yes

Batteries Required

‎Yes

Battery Cell Type

‎Lithium Ion

Date First Available

July 24, 2019

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