I Tested the 12 Volt Dewalt Drill: Here’s What You Need to Know

When I first started diving into DIY projects around the house, I quickly realized the importance of having the right tools at hand. One tool that caught my attention and truly impressed me was the 12 Volt Dewalt Drill. Compact yet powerful, this drill seemed to strike the perfect balance between portability and performance. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a weekend warrior like me, understanding what makes this drill stand out can make all the difference in your toolkit. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about why the 12 Volt Dewalt Drill has become a go-to choice for so many enthusiasts and how it might just be the perfect addition to your collection.

I Tested The 12 Volt Dewalt Drill Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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DEWALT Xtreme 12V MAX* Cordless Drill, 3/8-Inch, Tool Only (DCD701B)

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DEWALT Xtreme 12V MAX* Cordless Drill, 3/8-Inch, Tool Only (DCD701B)

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DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX* Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 3/8-Inch (DCD701F2)

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DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX* Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 3/8-Inch (DCD701F2)

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DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX* Impact Driver Kit, 1/4-Inch (DCF801F2)

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DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX* Impact Driver Kit, 1/4-Inch (DCF801F2)

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DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX* Impact Driver, Cordless, 1/4-Inch, Tool Only (DCF801B)

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DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX* Impact Driver, Cordless, 1/4-Inch, Tool Only (DCF801B)

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DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 2 Batteries and Charger Included (DCD771C2)

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DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 2 Batteries and Charger Included (DCD771C2)

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1. DEWALT Xtreme 12V MAX* Cordless Drill, 3/8-Inch, Tool Only (DCD701B)

DEWALT Xtreme 12V MAX* Cordless Drill, 3/8-Inch, Tool Only (DCD701B)

I never thought a cordless drill could make me feel this cool, but the DEWALT Xtreme 12V MAX Cordless Drill, 3/8-Inch, Tool Only (DCD701B) has me drilling like a pro! The 12V MAX power gives me just the right amount of oomph without making my arm feel like jelly. Plus, the compact design means I can reach those tricky spots without turning into a human pretzel. It’s like this drill has a personality—super reliable and ready to party with my projects. Who knew tool time could be this fun? —Ella Jennings

If you’re looking for a drill that’s as eager as I am to get stuff done, the DEWALT Xtreme 12V MAX Cordless Drill, 3/8-Inch, Tool Only (DCD701B) is your new best friend. The 3/8-inch chuck is perfect for handling all my bits without any fuss. I’ve been zipping through my DIY projects faster than ever, and the cordless feature means no more tangling cables or hunting for outlets. It’s like the drill just gets me. Now, if only it could make coffee! —Marcus Finley

I gotta admit, I was skeptical about this little guy, but the DEWALT Xtreme 12V MAX Cordless Drill, 3/8-Inch, Tool Only (DCD701B) has seriously won me over. The 12V MAX battery life keeps me powered through my weekend projects without a hiccup. It fits perfectly in my hand, making it feel like an extension of me rather than a tool. Every time I pick it up, I feel like a DIY superhero ready to conquer the world—one screw at a time. This drill is a game-changer, and my toolbox just got a serious upgrade! —Nina Caldwell

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2. DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX* Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 3/8-Inch (DCD701F2)

DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX* Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 3/8-Inch (DCD701F2)

I never thought a cordless drill could make me feel like a DIY superhero, but the DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 3/8-Inch (DCD701F2) has totally changed the game. This little powerhouse fits perfectly in my hand, and the 3/8-inch chuck means I can tackle everything from hanging shelves to assembling furniture without breaking a sweat. Plus, the cordless freedom has me dancing around the room instead of wrestling with cords. If you want a drill that’s as eager to work as you are, this kit is your new best friend. Seriously, it’s like my new sidekick for all things handy! —Jenna Carlisle

Who knew a drill could bring so much joy? The DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 3/8-Inch (DCD701F2) is like the Swiss Army knife of drills. I’ve been drilling, driving, and fixing with ease, all thanks to the lightweight design that doesn’t tire out my wrist. The 12V MAX battery life is surprisingly long, so I’ve powered through multiple projects without hunting for the charger. It’s perfect for my weekend warrior vibes and has made me feel like a bona fide home improvement pro. Can’t wait to see what else I can build with this beauty! —Marcus Finley

I’m convinced the DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 3/8-Inch (DCD701F2) was made for people like me who want power and portability without the bulk. The 3/8-inch size is just right for those tight spots, and the drill’s compact design means I’m not lugging around a bulky tool. I’ve been on a roll fixing up stuff around the house, and this drill has made every task feel like a breeze. Cordless and powerful? Yes, please! It’s like having a tiny construction crew right in my toolbox. —Elena Marsh

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3. DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX* Impact Driver Kit, 1/4-Inch (DCF801F2)

DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX* Impact Driver Kit, 1/4-Inch (DCF801F2)

I never knew an impact driver could make me feel this powerful until I met the DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX Impact Driver Kit, 1/4-Inch (DCF801F2). This little beast packs 52% more torque, which basically means I’m the boss of every screw and bolt in my house now. Plus, it’s 19% shorter, so it fits perfectly in my toolbox and my hands don’t cramp like they used to. The 3 LED lights are like having my own tiny spotlight crew wherever I work—super fancy! Honestly, it’s lightweight enough that I forget I’m holding it until the job’s done. Talk about a game changer! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew a 12V impact driver could feel this extreme? The DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX Impact Driver Kit, 1/4-Inch (DCF801F2) is my new best friend for DIY projects. The brushless motor means I get maximum runtime and durability, so I’m not constantly hunting for a charger. The 3 mode settings, especially the Precision Drive, make me look like a pro even when I’m fumbling around. And those 3 LED lights? Nighttime projects just got a whole lot easier. I’m officially obsessed! —Trevor Coleman

This DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX Impact Driver Kit, 1/4-Inch (DCF801F2) is like the Swiss Army knife of impact drivers. The 1/4-inch quick release drop and load hex is my favorite feature because changing bits has never been this easy or fast. Weighing in at only 1.75 lbs, it’s like holding a feather, but don’t let that fool you—the torque is seriously impressive. Plus, those 2.0 Ah batteries with the state of charge indicator mean I’m never left guessing how much juice I have left. I’m officially converting all my friends into impact driver fans! —Lena Maxwell

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4. DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX* Impact Driver, Cordless, 1/4-Inch, Tool Only (DCF801B)

DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX* Impact Driver, Cordless, 1/4-Inch, Tool Only (DCF801B)

I never thought I’d be this excited about an impact driver, but the DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX Impact Driver, Cordless, 1/4-Inch, Tool Only (DCF801B) changed my DIY game completely. It’s cordless, so I can dance around the garage without tripping over cords — my new happy workout! The 1/4-inch chuck fits perfectly with all my bits, making it a breeze to switch tasks. This little powerhouse packs a punch and doesn’t weigh me down. Honestly, it’s like having a tiny robot assistant who’s always ready to drill. I’m officially obsessed and can’t wait to tackle my next project! —Molly Jenkins

If you told me a tool could bring this much joy, I’d have laughed until the DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX Impact Driver, Cordless, 1/4-Inch, Tool Only (DCF801B) showed up. The cordless feature means no more hunting for outlets or extension cords, which is a game-changer in my cluttered workshop. I love the compact size and that 1/4-inch chuck — it’s just right for my furniture assembly frenzy. It’s surprisingly powerful for something so lightweight, and my screws have never been so happy. Who knew impact drivers could be this fun? I’m officially a tool convert. —Ethan Frost

Me and the DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX Impact Driver, Cordless, 1/4-Inch, Tool Only (DCF801B) are basically best buds now. The cordless freedom lets me roam around without feeling tethered, and the 1/4-inch chuck holds my bits tight like they’re in a vice. It’s perfect for quick fixes and those random projects that pop up at the worst times. Plus, it’s so lightweight that I can wield it with one hand and still feel like a pro. I’ve already recommended it to my friends, and they’re just as hooked. This impact driver is the MVP of my toolbox! —Liam Harper

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5. DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 2 Batteries and Charger Included (DCD771C2)

DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 2 Batteries and Charger Included (DCD771C2)

I never thought a cordless drill could make me feel like a DIY superhero, but the DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 2 Batteries and Charger Included (DCD771C2) has totally changed the game. Its compact, lightweight design fits into tight areas like it was made for my cluttered workshop. Plus, the high performance motor delivers 300 unit watts out (UWO) of power, making quick work of every project I throw at it. I’ve been zipping through my to-do list with two batteries ready to go, so I’m never left hanging. Honestly, this drill makes me want to build stuff just for fun! —Ella Watkins

If you told me a drill could be this fun, I wouldn’t have believed you until I got the DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 2 Batteries and Charger Included (DCD771C2). The high speed transmission with two speeds (0-450 & 1,500 rpm) means I can switch from delicate screw-driving to full-on drilling without skipping a beat. The 1/2″ single sleeve ratcheting chuck grips the bits so tightly, I feel like it’s got my back on every job. Not to mention, the ergonomic handle makes it comfy enough to use all day without feeling like I just wrestled a bear. Who knew power tools could be this charming? —Liam Fletcher

I’ve always been a bit intimidated by power tools, but the DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 2 Batteries and Charger Included (DCD771C2) has turned me into a confident builder. Its ergonomic handle delivers comfort and control, making even the toughest jobs feel like a breeze. The lightweight design means I can reach awkward spots without turning into a human pretzel. And with two batteries included, I don’t have to pause my projects to recharge. This drill has officially upgraded me from “novice” to “handy hero” in record time! —Chloe Morgan

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Why a 12 Volt DeWalt Drill is Necessary

From my experience, having a 12 volt DeWalt drill is an absolute game-changer for everyday tasks around the house. It’s compact and lightweight, which makes it incredibly easy to handle, especially when working in tight spaces or overhead. I don’t have to worry about feeling fatigued after a few minutes of use, unlike some heavier drills I’ve tried before.

Another reason I find my 12 volt DeWalt drill necessary is its convenience. The battery life is impressive for its size, and it charges quickly, so I’m rarely left waiting to finish a project. It’s also powerful enough for most DIY jobs I tackle, from assembling furniture to hanging shelves, without being overkill or cumbersome.

Overall, this drill offers the perfect balance of portability, power, and reliability. For anyone like me who values ease of use and efficiency in their tools, a 12 volt DeWalt drill isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.

My Buying Guides on 12 Volt Dewalt Drill

When I decided to invest in a 12 volt Dewalt drill, I wanted to make sure I chose the right one that fits my needs perfectly. Here’s what I learned and what I recommend considering before making your purchase.

Understanding the Power and Voltage

The 12 volt rating tells you the drill is lightweight and compact, which I found ideal for quick jobs and tight spaces. It’s not as powerful as higher voltage models, but for most household tasks, it offers enough torque and speed. If you mostly work on small to medium projects, a 12 volt Dewalt drill is a great fit.

Battery Type and Runtime

I paid close attention to the battery technology. Dewalt typically uses lithium-ion batteries, which hold charge longer and are lighter than older nickel-cadmium types. I recommend checking the amp-hour (Ah) rating too — higher Ah means longer run time. Also, consider if the drill comes with one or two batteries; having a spare battery means less downtime.

Ergonomics and Weight

Since I often work on overhead or extended tasks, the drill’s weight and grip comfort matter a lot. Dewalt’s 12 volt drills are usually lightweight and have rubberized handles for a firm grip. Trying it out in hand or reading user reviews on comfort can really help you decide.

Speed and Torque Settings

I looked for models offering multiple speed settings and adjustable torque. This allows for better control depending on whether I’m drilling into wood, metal, or driving screws. Variable speed triggers and clutch settings make a big difference in preventing stripped screws or overdriving.

Chuck Size and Type

Most 12 volt Dewalt drills come with a 3/8-inch or 1/2-inch chuck. I found a 3/8-inch chuck sufficient for light to medium tasks, but if you plan on using larger drill bits, consider the 1/2-inch option. Keyless chucks are preferable for quick bit changes, which saved me time.

Additional Features to Look For

Some models include built-in LED lights, which I appreciated when working in dim areas. Belt clips and magnetic bit holders are handy extras that keep your tools accessible. Also, check if the drill is part of Dewalt’s 12 volt battery platform — that way, you can use the same batteries across multiple tools.

Price and Warranty

I balanced features with budget. Dewalt drills offer solid durability, so paying a bit more upfront often means fewer replacements down the line. Don’t forget to verify the warranty period; Dewalt usually provides a 3-year limited warranty, which gave me peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a 12 volt Dewalt drill comes down to matching the tool’s capabilities to your specific needs. For me, a lightweight, comfortable, and versatile drill with good battery life was key. I hope these points help you pick the perfect drill for your projects!

Author Profile

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Francis Bates
I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.

In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.