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Makita DF030DW

*Est. $150

Reviewed August 2009
Makita DF030DW

Best cordless drill for homeowners

pros
  • Two speeds
  • Small, light
  • Lithium-ion batteries
  • Three-year warranty
cons
  • Not for big construction projects
  • 3/8-inch chuck
  • Long charging time
 
 
Where to Buy
 
 
 
5 star:
(4)
4 star:
(1)
3 star:
(0)
2 star:
(1)
1 star:
(0)

Average Customer Review

(6 customer reviews)

for $106.06

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Page 12
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NOT a drill, October 26, 2009

This was listed as a "driver-DRILL kit", however, it will not function as a drill. It does not have the essential part that would allow it to accept drill bits, namely, a drill chuck. NOWHERE in the description of this item does it mention this fact. The documentation that came with the item did not mention this fact. Nothing would alert a person that an extra, not-included part was needed to function as a drill. I returned it and bought a Craftsman.

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Makita 10.8v drill, September 25, 2009

I absolutely LOVE this drill, and I've only used it for one project. It's got the power necessary for the average job, it's compact and lightweight, and the LED light is awesome! Definitely worth the investment, and I'm glad I got it for myself. My last cordless drill lasted 2 years and died, so I'm expecting this one to last much longer, and the 3-year warranty is a real bonus when most companies only provide a 1-year warranty. I don't have big hands, and this drill fit into my hand perfectly; any woman who needs a cordless drill should DEFINITELY consider this drill, but hide it from your husband!

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Great Tool, May 11, 2009
I've had this makita drill driver for a couple months and its done more than i ever expected. I originally got the tool to carry around with me to do minor maintenance. I've used it on almost everything i'v done except in those situations where a hammer drill or a high torque impact is required. Also, the little holster that comes in the individual case has been a perfect fit for my tool belt.
Makita compact drill, January 7, 2009
Great price!!!
Love the light...
Small, powerful and does everything around the house without needing to drag out the hammer drill. Will make a great addition to my work tools.
Good power in a small package, January 7, 2009

I work as an auto technician and I bought this drill/driver to use primarily for interior work. Its compact size and lightweight (compared with an 18 volt drill/driver) are just what I was looking for. Plus, it has power to spare for my needs. The batteries last quite a while per charge and I don't have to worry about trying to run them down all the way in order to recharge them. I am extremely happy with this drill!

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Where To Buy
 
 

Makita DF030DW 10.8-Volt Ultra Compact Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill Kit

 (6 customer reviews)
Buy new: $258.00 $112.58   14 New from $109.99

In Stock. Eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping

 
 
 

Our Sources

1. Tools of the Trade

Tools of the Trade compares nine subcompact Li-ion cordless drill/drivers based on objective tests plus jobsite use, ranking the Makita DF030DW second only to the Milwaukee 2401-22, which has a self-locking bit holder plus a battery meter. The Makita earns kudos as "the first and only subcompact driver with two speed ranges for added versatility," outstanding comfort, and an excellent LED light plus a holster.

Review: Tool Test: Compact & Subcompact Drill/Drivers, David Getts, Feb. 2009

2. Journal of Light Construction

The Makita DF030DW shares top ranking with the Hitachi DB10DL in this review of six Li-ion subcompact drill/drivers. The review reports on rugged tests, including subjection to extreme cold. The reviewer says the Makita's two speeds mean it "can occasionally fill in for an 18-volt tool."

Review: Tool Test: Subcompact Drill/Drivers, Dave Northup, Feb. 2009

3. J.D. Power and Associates

Makita ranks fifth in J.D. Power and Associates' customer-satisfaction survey of 10 cordless drill brands, though it still ranks above the industry average. The rankings are based on six factors, with drill performance most important, followed by ease of use, battery performance, price, versatility of battery system and warranty.

Review: Cordless Drill Owners Particularly Pleased with Lithium Ion Battery Technology, Editors of J.D. Power and Associates, June 2008

4. Amazon.com

The handful of owners reviewing the Makita DF030DW cordless drill at Amazon.com say they're very pleased with its compact size and light weight. One owner says it drives 3-inch deck screws; another notes that runtime is short but irrelevant since it has two batteries.

Review: Makita DF030DW 10.8-Volt Ultra Compact Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill Kit, Contributors to Amazon.com

5. TylerTool.com

This YouTube video is basically an advertisement, but it does demonstrate the features of the Makita DF030DW, and shows that it can drill through a two-by-six board with a 5/8-inch spade bit.

Review: Makita DF030DW 1/4" Drill/Driver Review, TylerTool.com, Aug. 25, 2008

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