Makita 18V Li-Ion LXT Combi Drill vs Dewalt 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill Driver With 2 X 2AH
We compare the Makita 18V Li-Ion LXT Combi Drill and the Dewalt 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill Driver With 2 X 2AH across every dimension that matters - our scores, the key specs, and how each performs on the things you will actually notice day to day.
At a glance
| Makita 18V Li-Ion LXT Combi Drill | Dewalt 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill Driver With 2 X 2AH | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 9.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| Best for | Home DIY tasks on the 18V platform | DIY users and tradespeople wanting cordless power on the 18V platform |
| Not ideal for | Anyone needing corded power for continuous heavy-duty work, or without batteries for this platform | Anyone needing corded power for continuous heavy-duty work, or without batteries for this platform |
| Brand | Makita | DeWalt |
Build Quality and Design
Makita 18V Li-Ion LXT Combi Drill
This cordless tool uses a combination of metal and plastic body components, designed for users within the 18V platform segment. In this review, the stated mass is 2.3 kg and the compact dimensions are 10.2 x 8.9 x 3.1 cm (L x W x H). The internal 2-speed planetary gear includes metal gearing to support durability, while the plastic housing may offer less resistance to heavy impacts, although specific impact resistance is not stated. The overall design is described as purposeful.
Dewalt 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill Driver With 2 X 2AH
Compact and metal-bodied, this cordless tool is designed to stay manageable on site, built for day-to-day durability. The metal housing gives a solid feel, and the all-metal transmission is intended to handle frequent use. At about 1.3 kg, it should be easier to control overhead, though the compact size can limit leverage in heavy drilling. Measuring 17.1 x 13.8 x 4.7 cm, it fits tidily in a TSTAK box, while the LED supports tight, low-light work.
Battery System and Run Time
Makita 18V Li-Ion LXT Combi Drill
Battery system details for the Makita are limited to the 18V Li-ion platform being part of the drill's verified information. Runtime will depend on the battery used, the selected gear speed, and the drilling load, as harder materials require more effort. Battery-dependent runtime can vary between light wood drilling and heavier tasks, but no consistent runtime estimate can be stated without named battery models.
Dewalt 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill Driver With 2 X 2AH
Because the DCD778S2T-QW is part of The DeWalt's XR 18V battery platform, its day-to-day usefulness depends heavily on how the supplied packs perform in the field. The kit includes two 2Ah XR lithium-ion batteries, a charger with a state of charge indicator, and an appropriate case. The 2Ah capacity suggests shorter runtime than larger packs, so heavy drilling will require more frequent swaps. The cordless tool states minimised self-discharge and extended cycle life, which helps between jobs.
Power and Torque
Makita 18V Li-Ion LXT Combi Drill
Power and torque on the cordless tool are defined by its 2-speed planetary gear system with metal gears and by its 16 torque settings that limit twisting force. In Gear 1, the idle speed is 0-400 min-1, while Gear 2 reaches 0-2 000 min-1. The drill is rated for soft torque 58 Nm and hard torque 91 Nm, which helps match load to task. For masonry, the drilling capacity is 16 mm in stone, and for steel it is 13 mm. That torque control, however, requires careful selection to avoid under- or over-setting for the application, which can be a drawback if the settings are misused.
Dewalt 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill Driver With 2 X 2AH
Power and torque matter most for the DeWalt because this 18V XR brushless hammer drill driver is designed for both drilling and screwdriving. It has a rated 42 Newton-metres (Nm) of torque, and the brushless motor is built to maximise power output while reducing energy loss. A 15-position adjustable torque control helps match force to the work, supporting more accurate driving in softer or precision tasks. For heavier drilling and higher-torque use, the all-metal two-speed transmission allows switching to a stronger setting. Overall output is strong, but achieving finer control depends on selecting the correct torque position.
Speed and Versatility
Makita 18V Li-Ion LXT Combi Drill
The Makita features two fixed speed ranges for drilling control, using a 2-speed planetary gear system with metal gears and a 16-way torque adjustment. Gear 1 runs at 0-400 min-1 and gear 2 runs at 0-2,000 min-1, enabling slower starts and faster drilling for larger holes. It supports drilling into wood up to 76 mm, steel up to 13 mm and stone up to 16 mm, although performance depends on the selected bit.
Dewalt 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill Driver With 2 X 2AH
With its two-speed all-metal transmission, the cordless tool is set up to handle different drilling and driving tasks without constant tool changes. The DeWalt DCD778S2T-QW hammer drill driver, supplied with 2 x 2Ah batteries, is positioned for a split role: high-speed use for drilling and higher-torque output when driving screws needs extra force. The hammer function supports masonry work, while the drill/driver modes are suited to wood and metal. Speed selection can also affect heat and load during use, so changing speeds as tasks vary helps keep performance matched. Two batteries provide more consistent runtime, although the limited capacity can still require recharging during longer jobs.
Ergonomics and Weight
Makita 18V Li-Ion LXT Combi Drill
With a body that uses both metal and plastic, the cordless tool is built to handle everyday workshop use without feeling flimsy. Its weight also affects how long it can be used comfortably: at 2.3kg, it is not the lightest combi drill, so long overhead or one-handed tasks may feel tiring. 2 x 8.9 x 3.1 (LxWxH) cm suggests a compact form factor for control. For buyers searching "The Makita DHP458Z any good", balance is likely to be a key deciding factor.
Dewalt 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill Driver With 2 X 2AH
Ergonomics matter most on job sites, and the DeWalt is designed for practical handling. It weighs 1.3kg and uses a compact metal body sized 17.1 x 13.8 x 4.7cm, which supports access in day-to-day use. The brushless motor design supports a more compact feel, and prolonged drilling should reduce fatigue. In very tight spaces, the chuck end may still feel bulky due to the tool's overall size.
What's in the Kit
Makita 18V Li-Ion LXT Combi Drill
Even though the Makita sits within the wider The cordless tool platform, the kit details need careful checking because the verified information here covers the tool's build and performance, not the accessories included in the box. For the Makita, the provided facts confirm the main unit, including metal and plastic body materials, metal gears, a two-speed range of 0-400 min-1 and 0-2,000 min-1, and a 1.5-13 mm chuck. What comes in the box, including any battery, charger, and drill bits, is not stated.
Dewalt 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill Driver With 2 X 2AH
The cordless tool kit is supplied with two 2Ah XR batteries, a charger with a state of charge indicator, and a TSTAK Kitbox for storage and transport. This means the DeWalt batteries arrives ready to use, without needing separate power accessories. The two batteries are included to support longer working sessions, while the state of charge indicator helps users monitor downtime. The TSTAK Kitbox supports stacking for transport.
Compatibility with Other Tools
Makita 18V Li-Ion LXT Combi Drill
Compatibility is usually strongest for tools that share the same platform. The cordless tool model is part of This cordless tool's 18V LXT system, which means battery reuse is a key advantage when comparing it with other cordless tools within the same range. The drill's 2-speed gearbox, with 0-400 min-1 and 0-2,000 min-1, is well matched to common LXT accessories. However, chuck sizes vary by bit-holder, so the 1.5 - 13 mm range limits options.
Dewalt 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill Driver With 2 X 2AH
The cordless tool builds the DCD778S2T-QW (18V) to work within its XR battery system, so compatibility depends on which batteries the user already has. For this cordless tool, the kit includes two 2Ah XR batteries, a charger with a state of charge indicator, and a TSTAK Kitbox. Any XR 18V batteries that match the same system should fit for continued use, though exact runtime depends on capacity.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Makita 18V Li-Ion LXT Combi Drill
Regular cleaning helps the Makita stay accurate and reliable, especially after drilling wood, steel, or stone where dust and chips can build up. Maintenance starts after each session, by brushing debris from the chuck area and wiping the metal housing, since grit can affect grip and alignment. Next, he checks the 1.5 - 13 mm chuck opening, and removes stuck particles with a dry cloth (no liquid, except specified). After work on stone, he additionally clears vents and cooling paths, then stores the drill dry. Soft and hard torque settings remain unaffected, but clogged parts can raise friction (if ignored).
Dewalt 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill Driver With 2 X 2AH
Because this 18V XR brushless hammer drill driver is built for demanding use, regular cleaning helps it stay reliable after each job. For the DeWalt, maintenance mainly involves removing dust and checking the chuck area. After drilling, switch the tool off, remove the battery, then wipe the tool body with a dry cloth. If debris builds up around the 13mm chuck, brush it out gently. Keep the bright LED area clear to maintain visibility. Over time, neglect can cause stiffness. Avoid soaking.
Who Is This Tool For?
Makita 18V Li-Ion LXT Combi Drill
This tool suits tradespeople and serious DIY users who want one 18V combi drill to cover multiple materials without repeatedly changing setups. The Makita DHP458Z is a good fit if someone regularly drills wood up to 76 mm, steel up to 13 mm, and stone up to 16 mm, with a gearbox offering two speed ranges of 0-400 min-1 and 0-2,000 min-1. It also suits buyers who prioritise quick setup, with a 1.5-13 mm chuck and 16-step torque adjustment. At 2.3 kg, extended use may feel tiring.
Dewalt 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill Driver With 2 X 2AH
This 18V XR brushless hammer drill driver (model DCD778S2T-QW) suits people who need a compact drilling and driving tool for jobs in tight spaces, where it can be hard to set down, and for work in low-light areas. It is a good fit for trade users and serious DIYers who want a durable build, with a metal tool body and an all-metal transmission offering two speeds. For the question of whether the Dewalt DCD778S2T-QW is any good, it is best suited to mixed fastening and masonry drilling where visibility matters and weight limits are important, at about 1.3 kg.
Makita 18V Li-Ion LXT Combi Drill: pros
- 18V cordless platform
- 58 Nm torque
- 0.5Inches chuck
- 2.3 Kilograms - manageable for extended use
Cons
- Check whether battery and charger are included or sold separately
- Battery is locked to this maker's platform, not cross-compatible
- Cordless run-time depends on the battery's amp-hour rating
Dewalt 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill Driver With 2 X 2AH: pros
- 18V cordless platform (2 Amp Hours)
- 42 Newton Meters torque
- Brushless motor - cooler running and longer life
- 13mm chuck
- 1.3 Kilograms - manageable for extended use
Cons
- Check whether battery and charger are included or sold separately
- Battery is locked to this maker's platform, not cross-compatible
- Cordless run-time depends on the battery's amp-hour rating
Our verdict
Our pick is the Makita 18V Li-Ion LXT Combi Drill (our score 9.4/10) - A cordless power tool (18V, 58 Nm), a capable pick for drilling and driving around the home and site. The Dewalt 18V XR Brushless Hammer Drill Driver With 2 X 2AH is still worth it if it is cheaper when you check, or if it better matches your specific needs.