DeWalt vs Makita Cordless Drill UK: Which Is Better in 2026?

Updated 2026-06-28

DeWalt and Makita are the two most trusted power tool brands among UK tradespeople and serious DIYers. The DeWalt DCD777C2 is an 18V brushless drill with a full kit (charger + two batteries) aimed at users who want professional-grade torque out of the box. The Makita DF333DZ is a compact 10.8V drill sold body-only, targeting users who already own Makita batteries or prefer a lightweight tool for precision tasks. Both are sold at Screwfix, Toolstation, and Amazon UK — but they serve very different use cases. This comparison breaks down which drill is the right fit for your workshop, skill level, and project ambitions.

DeWalt

DeWalt DCD777C2 18V Cordless Drill

See price on Amazon

Makita

Makita DF333DZ 10.8V Cordless Drill

See price on Amazon

Specs Comparison

SpecDeWalt DCD777C2 18V Cordless DrillMakita DF333DZ 10.8V Cordless Drill
Voltage18V10.8V (CXT)
Max Torque42 Nm30 Nm
Chuck Size13 mm10 mm
Weight1.5 kg (body only)1.1 kg (body only)
Battery2 × 1.3 Ah Li-ion includedBody only (battery not included)
MotorBrushlessBrushed
Speed Settings2 (0–550 / 0–1750 rpm)2 (0–450 / 0–1500 rpm)

Pros & Cons

DeWalt DCD777C2 18V Cordless Drill

Pros

  • Full kit with charger and two batteries — ready to use immediately
  • 42 Nm torque handles masonry anchors, decking screws, and hardwood without stalling
  • 18V platform compatible with 200+ DeWalt XR tools
  • Brushless motor lasts up to 50% longer than brushed equivalents

Cons

  • At 1.5 kg it is heavier than the Makita — noticeable during extended overhead work
  • 1.3 Ah batteries drain quickly on demanding tasks (2.0 Ah upgrade recommended)
  • Overkill for light-duty tasks like assembling flatpacks or hanging pictures

Makita DF333DZ 10.8V Cordless Drill

Pros

  • Incredibly light at 1.1 kg — ideal for overhead work and tight spaces
  • Compact body fits into kitchen cabinets, under sinks, and electrical boxes
  • £49–65 body-only price is exceptional value if you already own CXT batteries
  • Precise 10 mm chuck suits furniture assembly and electronics work

Cons

  • Body-only — battery and charger cost an additional £50–70
  • 30 Nm torque struggles with long screws into hardwood or masonry
  • 10 mm chuck cannot accept larger drill bits needed for some jobs
  • Brushed motor has shorter lifespan than DeWalt's brushless

Our Verdict

The DeWalt DCD777C2 is the better all-round cordless drill for UK buyers who want one tool that handles everything from flatpack assembly to garden decking. Its 18V brushless motor and included batteries mean you are ready for serious work immediately. The Makita DF333DZ is the superior choice for light-duty precision work, tight spaces, and users already invested in Makita's 10.8V CXT battery platform. For a first cordless drill, the DeWalt kit offers unbeatable value. For a second drill to complement a heavier tool, the Makita's portability is unmatched.

Best for Budget

Makita DF333DZ 10.8V Cordless Drill

Best for Features

DeWalt DCD777C2 18V Cordless Drill

Buy DeWalt DCD777C2 18V Cordless Drill on Amazon UKBuy Makita DF333DZ 10.8V Cordless Drill on Amazon UK

Buying Guide

  • 1Decide between body-only and full kit — the DeWalt includes batteries and charger; the Makita body-only needs a separate £50–70 battery investment.
  • 2Match voltage to your project ambitions — 18V handles decking, masonry, and renovation work; 10.8V suits furniture, shelving, and light repairs.
  • 3Consider your existing battery platform — if you own other DeWalt XR or Makita CXT tools, staying within the same family saves money on batteries.
  • 4Check the chuck size — the DeWalt's 13 mm chuck accepts all standard bits; the Makita's 10 mm chuck limits you to smaller drill bits.
  • 5Try the weight in-store — the 400g difference between 1.1 kg and 1.5 kg becomes significant during a full day's work overhead.

Editor's Note

For UK DIYers buying their first serious cordless drill, the DeWalt DCD777C2 kit at £129–149 is the standout recommendation. It arrives ready to work, the 18V platform has room to grow into impact drivers and circular saws, and the brushless motor will outlast the drill's useful life. The Makita DF333DZ is a brilliant tool — but its value proposition depends entirely on whether you already own compatible batteries. Buying the body, battery, and charger separately totals £100–130, at which point the DeWalt full kit is the smarter spend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is DeWalt or Makita better for UK DIY?
DeWalt is better for general-purpose UK DIY thanks to higher torque, included batteries, and a broader 18V tool ecosystem. Makita excels in compact, lightweight tools for precision work. For a first cordless drill, DeWalt offers more capability per pound; Makita is the better choice for adding a second, lighter drill to your collection.
Are DeWalt and Makita batteries interchangeable?
No — DeWalt 18V XR batteries and Makita 10.8V CXT batteries are completely incompatible. Third-party adaptors exist but void warranties and may damage the tool. Choose one platform and build your collection within it for the best long-term value.
How long do cordless drill batteries last?
A 1.3 Ah battery (included with the DeWalt) lasts roughly 30–45 minutes of intermittent drilling. A 2.0 Ah Makita CXT battery lasts slightly longer at 40–60 minutes. For extended projects, keep a spare charged battery on hand. Li-ion batteries typically last 3–5 years or 500+ charge cycles before capacity drops noticeably.
Do I need a brushless cordless drill?
Brushless motors last longer, run cooler, and deliver more power per battery charge than brushed motors. For occasional DIY, a brushed drill like the Makita DF333DZ is perfectly adequate. For regular or professional use, a brushless drill like the DeWalt DCD777C2 is worth the premium — fewer parts to wear out and better sustained performance.

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