I saw a new comment to my Dewalt 12V Max brushless drill (EU launch) post, and a thought crossed my mind: how does the Dewalt Atomic 20V Max cordless drill compare in size to their 12V Max brushless drill?
In exploring this, I ended up answering a different question, about how the new Dewalt Atomic brushless drill compared in size against Makita 12V Max CXT and Milwaukee M12 Fuel models.
Compared to 12V Max Brushless
Photo: MyToolShed
It turns out, they’re quite similar in appearance and even look to be nearly identical in size, although there are definitely some differences.
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I have a Dewalt Atomic drill sample in-hand (thank you Dewalt!) and headed off to see how it compares. There are very strong similarities, which got me curious. The Dewalt 12V Max brushless drill has not been released yet, or even announced in the USA. But how does the Atomic drill compare to other brands’ 12V-class cordless drills?
The inspiration struck, and I retrieved a Makita 12V CXT cordless drill and the latest Milwaukee M12 Fuel drill, both also built with brushless motors, and took a quick photo of all three.
Compared to Makita 12V Max CXT and Milwaukee M12 Fuel
Things look a little “off,” due to smartphone camera distortion (sorry, I intended it to be a quick photo), but the size difference surprised me.
Dewalt describes the Atomic cordless power tool lineup with the tagline Where Size Meets Power, and positions them as an affordable entry point into their 20V Max system.
The Dewalt Atomic series drill and impact driver kits are budget-friendly tools, with $99 kit pricing (at least presently).
What follows is a short history of the other 20V Max budget-friendly drills that preceded the Atomic Series model. By “budget-friendly,” I refer to the Dewalt drills that are seasonally available in kits with 1.3Ah batteries around $99 pricing. These kits typically sell very well.
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Despite a shared price point, the Atomic drill is certainly a far leap away from the DCD771 that it’s compared to in Dewalt’s marketing language. The brushed motor DCD771 is quite a bit larger, and I always felt like it has a cheaper appearance.
When Dewalt came out with their first budget-friendly brushless drill, the DCD777, I was impressed at the improvements it offered over the DCD771.
The DCD708 Atomic series cordless drill matches the DCD777 on power, but squeezes it into a slightly more compact package.
12V-class cordless power tools have gotten larger in size, most notably the M12 Fuel, although its shorter height with a compact battery required me to hold it up and at an angle to compare evenly in the photo.
The Makita 12V CXT cordless drill is more compact, and the new model will be even shorter in length.
Yes, the Dewalt Atomic cordless drill is a little wider, but its dimensions are a lot more comparable than I would have thought.
I should also mention that the Dewalt kit is less expensive than the two others in the photo.
I have more work to do in testing its performance, but so far it’s quite respectable for its size and value-conscious positioning.
I answered my question about how the Dewalt Atomic drill compared in size to the new 12V Max brushless model announced in Europe, and it was interesting to see how it compares against 12V-class tools. I had compared it to other 18V and 20V Max-sized cordless drills, but it wasn’t until today that I had considered sizing it against 12V-class drills.
Dewalt’s Atomic cordless power tools continue to interest me, and it’s been fun tracking the development of the lineup. With how Stanley Black & Decker has fit mention of Dewalt Atomic Compact Series cordless power tools between Dewalt FlexVolt and Craftsman tool brands in investor materials, I am certain there’s going to be much more coming from this line.
Buy Now(Dewalt Atomic Series tools via Acme Tools)
Separately, in case you’re wondering, unlike the obvious similarities between Atomic and 12V Max drills, the Atomic series 20V Max impact driver does not compare well against the new 12V Max impact, as the latter has speed adjustment controls and a longer gearbox section.
Gary
SBD recently made reference to Dewalt’s “launch of (a) 20-volt ATOMIC and 12-volt XTREME product”.
Are you familiar with the XTREME product referenced?
Stuart
I am not familiar with that at all, thank you for the heads-up!
SAMUEL
I’ll just keep using my m12 fuel idk
Jim Felt
Stuart.
I’m not sure it really matters structurally but does the M12 Milwaukee appear to have more actual metal in its outer surfaces?
Or just the illusion?
Enquiring minds and all…
Stuart
Yes?
But I honestly couldn’t tell you if that contributes more to the premium “feel” or if adds any real functional benefit.
mayhem17
I think actually does, since the only piece of plastic/rubber in the tool is the case itself, the rest is all metal.
OhioHead
The only “metal” used in the construction of powertools is in the “head” of the unit to make more durable/serviceable, the rest of tool is FRN (fiberglass reinforced nylon (super durable plastic)) w/ rubber overmolds………
AC
How does the Bosch PS32 measure up? That one always seems really small and comfortable in hand.
Stuart
I continue to love, love, love the Bosch.
https://toolguyd.com/why-boschs-12v-brushless-drill-and-driver-are-perfect/
I’ll try to do a larger comparison including it when I can.
I do prefer the grips on tools with slide-style battery packs, but the performance of the Bosch PS32 is dialed-in perfectly for what I’ve been using it for. I don’t need extreme torque in a 12V-class tool, I want comfort, control, and light weight, and that’s what it delivers best.
Wayne R.
I’ve got an older 10.8v set of the Bosch and agree.
I think using them on machine screws versus wood screws is part of the key, as the machine screws create little friction until the very end.
TonyT
If you need a super short hex screwdriver, I think it’s hard to beat the Bosch 12V Max Flexi-Click with no attachments.
I’m also curious to see a comparison with Bosch PS32 and Makita sub-compact, including the weight with a reasonable (>= 2 AHr) battery
Whiskey and Wood
I’d also be curious as to how the Makita Subcompact compares, I know its 20 volt, but I think its actually smaller than some if not all of these!
Benjamin
This is what I want to know as well! When I was getting a set of sub-compact tools a year ago it came down to the Makita LXT 18v sub-compact line vs m12 fuel. The LXTsub drill body was the same size as their CXT 12v drill, but the CXT was a step down in specs while the m12 fuel and LXTsub had comparable specs to each other.
OrangecountyJOe
So which ones better? I have the m12 fuel hammer drill and the m18 brushless impact and although it’s nice and for the most part it powerful enough for any kind of job except when it comes to masonry and concrete anchors I feel like a little more power would be very essential but I need to hear how makita subcompact 18v hammer drill (blk one) is more or less powerful than my M12 Fuel drill
Nathan
how does the torque and speed compare. Sorry I know torque isn’t going to line up.
but of the 12’s vs the 20/18 atomic – does the dewalt have more gumption to run. OR does it provide a longer run time. As you said it’s the cheaper of the 3 in the picture. and I assume with a 2ah 20V battery vs the 2 ah 12V batteries of the other 2 products.
I suspect similar drilling power or driving power – longer run time.
Stuart
I need more time on that.
It’s not anemic, though. I’m keeping my purchased Craftsman V20 drill is a low-end comparison point. https://toolguyd.com/craftsman-black-friday-2018-cordless-drill-kit-cmcd700c1-review/
The Atomic ships with 1.3Ah batteries, which I find myself highly prejudiced against. I still need to determine how to best measure and compare performance when 1.3Ah and 2.0Ah batteries are used.
Carlos
The Makita 18V compact (Black one) is even shorter than the 12v CTX
Benjamin
^ this. DeWalt knows a good idea when they see one so they’re making something to compete against Makita 18v LXT subcompact, which itself compares reasonably to Milwaukee m12 Fuel in both size and specs.
Ken
I was just about to buy the XR versions but now I’m wondering if these are better. Both are brushless. I like the lighter weight and smaller size. Now I’m just not sure.
Stuart
Objectively, XR is better. If you have the budget, the DCD791 is a better drill. If you want to save money, the Atomic DCD708 gives you some of the features, such as the brushless motor and base-mounted LED worklight.
The XR is a little longer (less compact front to back), but more powerful, faster, and appears to have a more premium build quality.
XR Pros: speed, performance, build.
Atomic Pros: length, weight, cost.
The XR is kitted with a 2.0Ah battery, and the Atomic with 1.3Ah.
The question of which to buy is a lot harder if you can go either way. If you need help being pushed to either side of the fence, I can try to help, in which case more background information will help.
Corey Moore
My last Makita battery does not seem long for this world, and as such my subcompacts will be getting replaced. I’ve got a 791, and a 996 already, but grew very fond of the little Makita drill. This post has me about decided on replacing the comfort focused mini drill position to this atomic, rather than wait out the new 12v’s. However, my 887 is also getting long in the tooth, and your comment about the atomic impact perhaps falling short of the new 12v impact gives me pause. I’d rather maintain at least a drill/impact combo in the same battery for daily carry. Hopefully you’re upcoming coverage can be enlightening, Stu ?
Hepdog
I found this article a bit confusing – are we comparing Dewalt’s 20V tool to other mfr 12V tools? Are we comparing D’s 12V to other 12V tools? WTF is going on here.
Thanks,
H
Stuart
Sorry, I removed the other image of the 12V drill in hopes it reduces the potential for confusion. I also added a caption to the comparison image.
I realized there were sizing similarities between the 20V Max Atomic drill and the 12V (at least in images), and it prompted me to retrieve the sample to check. The inspiration struck, and I compared the 20V Max Atomic drill against other brands’ 12V-class tools. I found the findings surprising and of potential interest to share.
At face value it’s an odd comparison, and so the built-up is story-based, focusing on the “why,” and I included as much context as I could to show why I find it to be an interesting comparison. I never would have thought to make such a comparison with the Atomic drill’s predecessor models.
Hepdog
Thx and sorry to come off a bit coarse – that’s just me. BTW – I’ve had the 3 original ‘mini’ 12V tools for years and use them 99% of the time for tasks around the house, woodworking, and automotive. FYI – they won’t snap a 1/4-20 bolt like a 20V will!
Thx,
H
Stuart
I appreciate it, thanks!
I was a little taken aback by the last part, but you made a good point, and it resulted in a few tweaks that I hope cleared things up.
Corey Moore
I feel like I interpreted it as you meant lol 20s to 12s, but in application intended, rather than a spec showdown. I got subcompacts instead of 12s to do typical 12v stuff work, and that’s what I’m anticipating with these atomics. I see tools in both voltages overlapping in viability for less strenuous daily work that most previous 18v+ tools have been overkill for.
Ethan Paine
It is worth noting that the Milwaukee is also a hammer drill so that adds to the length. Not a true apples to apples.
krashtd
My immediate takeaway also.
Stuart
I would ordinarily agree with you, but the M12 Fuel drill/driver and hammer drill are the same exact length.
Drill: https://www.milwaukeetool.com/Products/Power-Tools/Drilling/Drill-Drivers/2503-20
Hammer Drill: https://www.milwaukeetool.com/Products/Power-Tools/Drilling/Hammer-Drills/2504-20
Both drills have a length of 6.6″.
This was never meant to be an apples to apples comparison. If it were to be a fair examination, I would have measured or at least placed them against a common zero reference, and measured the width.
If there’s interest in a more scientific approach to comparing the drills’ sizes, that’s something I can do in a follow-up.
Aaron
Wow! M12 fuel is some of my favorite stuff so I really want to see it be the compact choice, but this comparison is striking.
Getting a compact everyday tool that runs same platform as the heavy duty stuff… If I was shopping today that would probably be the convincer for me.
James C
I agree. Last summer my trusty 1st gen m12 hammer drill died. Happened to be on the same day as a HD special buy if the day that included the 1st gen fuel version. I figured it was meant to be so I upgraded. Six months later I jump into m18 with the surge and gen 2 fuel hammer drill. I then noticed just how big the m12 fuel drill is. It’s a great tool and competes in power with entry level 18v drills, but it’s big for what I now realize I want out of a 12v platform. I’d like to see some more focus on compact m12 tools from Milwaukee.
Roger
I have a hard time understanding the last part where the 12V has speed controls over the ATOMIC. I see they both have switches on top. Both have clutch adjustment. I’m also confused if the ATOMIC is shorter OR the 12V is shorter. Saying the gearbox is longer doesn’t tell much of overall length. Is the 12V better? Shorter?
I’m debating between the ATOMIC 20V drill/dri, or starting off into the 12V line with the drill/dri. Can I assume a new article comparing both will soon to come? Honestly, the screwdriver and minimulti are not very convincing enough to start a new line even if it’s charger compatible. I’m not concerned about the 12V hammer drill.
Stuart
Sorry, the 12V Max impact has speed controls, whereas the Atomic does not. That was more of a separate comment since the post starts off focusing on the Dewalt Atomic vs. 12V sizing similarities. It was a non sequitur no matter where I tried to fit it in, but relevant, so I kept it for last.
I edited the paragraph slightly to make the shift in subject focus clearer.
Frank D
Would have loved some top and side shots with those two dewalts side by side and one with the other tools. When it comes to compactness, we only got part of the story / picture.
I pretty much rebuilt a house with the old Makita 12v nimh drill and driver line.
For small tasks and tight and awkward spaces, the Bosch Flexi is my go to. It makes me feel I should have its 12v driver and other compact tools as well.
The What?
Let’s hope that the size is the only thing comparable in these tools and not the specs. If the specs are similar between a Milwaukee or makita 12v drill and a 20v Dewalt drill there’s something obviously not right. A 20v tool should substantially surpass any 12v tool in all specifications categories except for weight and size. The specs shouldn’t be similar at all. If they are, then someone is either making some real badass 12v tools or some really weak 20v tools.
Corey Moore
Not necessarily. Size and form factor are going to limit a motors capability, regardless of voltage. The benefits to capitalize on are going to be the inverse power draw requirements from the higher operating voltage, and the ergonomics of a smaller tool with the superior slide pack form factor. Nobody in their right mind should be seeking lower voltage/miniaturist tools and expecting them to dominate a power war with existing higher tier/power tools. That’s not at all what their point is.
Mitchell A.
When you compare these three drills are you looking at the fact that you are putting a dewalt 20v up against 2 twelve volt products the main seller for me on the Milwaukee which I own is the fact that it has an all metal chuck compared to th cheap plastic ones of the other two drills I am a carpenter and use these tools every day and I promise you those plastic chucks will not stand up to the abuse
Stuart
Yes? It’s an apples-to-bananas-to-pickles comparison.
Thank you for sharing about your plastic vs metal chuck experiences! What have you seen happen to plastic chucks?
Corey Moore
I’ve had plastic chucks on several drills I use daily at mines, and they’ve held up fine. They actually do better underground with the humidity, shotcrete dust, mine-blood, mud and the plethora of corrosive substances that are everywhere. A “plastic” chuck is only plastic on the outer sleeve, not any internal mechanism. Generally is a chuck is failing for someone, it’s an incredibly cheap POS tool, or there’s some serious misuse of that tool happening. It’s not like 90% of every drill housing isn’t plastic.
Gary R
Home Depot’s “On-line Exclusive” deals for today include a package deal with the DeWalt DCD708, their oscillating multi-tool, DCS355, and two 1.3 Ah batteries for $149.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/DEWALT-Atomic-1-2-in-20-Volt-MAX-Lithium-Ion-Brushless-Cordless-Compact-Drill-Driver-with-Bonus-Oscillating-Multi-Tool-DCD708C2W355B/309377529