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Is DeWalt a Good Brand?

There's more than one reason DeWalt power tools are a favorite of the construction industry and DIYers alike. Discover the strengths of this venerable brand.
Glenda Taylor Avatar

By Glenda Taylor

Updated on Aug 31, 2023 4:56 PM EDT

6 minute read

A large grouping of the best DeWalt tools pictured together

Photo: amazon.com

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DeWalt is widely regarded as a top-tier brand in the tool industry due to its exceptional quality, durability, and performance. With a rich history of more than 90 years, DeWalt has consistently delivered innovative and reliable tools that meet the demands of professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. Its extensive product lineup, which includes power tools, hand tools, and accessories, is known for its rugged construction, advanced features, and cutting-edge technology.

The company represents a legacy of excellence and reliability. DeWalt was started by Raymond DeWalt, an American inventor in the 1920s, and has come to represent high-quality power tools. It was acquired by Stanley Black & Decker in 1960, and the company has continued to manufacture power tools for pros and dedicated DIYers. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, investing in DeWalt means investing in tools that empower you to achieve your goals with confidence and efficiency.

Overall Quality of DeWalt Products

DeWalt tools are widely recognized for their exceptional craftsmanship, showcasing the company’s dedication to accuracy and long-lasting performance. With their sturdy build, maximum power performance, and user-friendly characteristics, DeWalt tools are premium-grade merchandise that fulfill the rigorous requirements of professionals across diverse fields.

What We Like

The advent of cordless tools has been a game changer for the DIY and construction industry, and DeWalt is on the cutting edge of cordless technology. In the past decade, DeWalt has consistently introduced higher-capacity lithium-ion batteries, and today, virtually all power tools the company makes can be purchased in a powerful battery-powered option.

Worth Noting

DeWalt’s comprehensive product lineup encompasses an extensive range of cordless DeWalt 20V tools and batteries in several capacity levels. The company also manufactures several corded power-tool options, which are often budget-friendly and don’t require charging batteries. In addition, DeWalt offers several lawn and landscaping tools.

DeWalt Batteries: Options and Performance

DeWalt offers a comprehensive range of batteries, including various voltages and amp hour (Ah) ratings, catering to different power requirements. Its battery lineup spans compact 1.5Ah options for lightweight applications to high-capacity 12.0Ah batteries for prolonged use. DeWalt recently introduced PowerStack batteries with a unique stacked cell design that maximizes energy output and runtime.

The company continues to push the boundaries of battery technology, consistently developing higher-capacity options to meet the evolving needs of users. This commitment to innovation ensures that professionals can rely on DeWalt’s batteries to deliver extended runtime and optimal performance for demanding tasks.

Top DeWalt Products

DeWalt’s top products are available in a range of tools in several categories. Its cordless drills offer impressive power and torque, making them a go-to choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts. The DWS780 compound miter saw is another standout, delivering precise and accurate cuts with its robust construction and advanced features. The DCH273B rotary hammer drill also provided high-end power in our hands-on testing. With so many top-notch tools to choose from, putting together our favorites was a snap.

A person using the best DeWalt cordless brad nailer to attach trim
Photo: amazon.com

Top DeWalt Cordless Power Tools

DeWalt cordless tools offer power, durability, and mobility without compromising performance. The following cordless tools are among our top choices for construction pros and DIYers, thanks to their rugged construction, high performance, and advanced features.

See more tools and advice in the following buyer’s guides: The Best Cordless Hammer Drills, The Best Wood Routers, The Best Brad Nailers, The Best Circular Saws, and The Best Miter Saws.

A person using the best DeWalt reciprocating saw to cut some framing in a house
Photo: amazon.com

Top DeWalt Corded Power Tools

Despite a surge in cordless tools, corded models are still in high demand. These corded tools from DeWalt are highly regarded for their power, precision, and durability, making them popular choices for anyone who requires reliable performance for their projects.

See more tools and advice in the following buyer’s guides: The Best Brad Nailers, The Best Drain Snakes, The Best Table Saws, The Best Reciprocating Saws, and The Best Random Orbital Sanders.

A person using the best DeWalt cordless chainsaw to cut a length of tree branch
Photo: amazon.com

Top DeWalt Outdoor Tools

The following outdoor tools from DeWalt are designed to tackle countless outdoor tasks with ease. Whether it’s clearing leaves with a cordless leaf blower or cutting branches with a cordless chainsaw, DeWalt’s outdoor tools deliver power and performance for maintaining yards and tackling landscape projects.

See more tools and advice in the following buyer’s guides: The Best Leaf Blowers, The Best Chainsaws, and The Best String Trimmers.

The best DeWalt jobsite radio on a workbench next to a person using the best DeWalt cordless drill
Photo: amazon.com

Additional Top DeWalt Tools

Whether you need a portable Bluetooth speaker for listening to jobsite tunes, a reliable grease gun for automotive maintenance, or anything in between, DeWalt’s got you covered with additional high-quality tools.

See more tools and advice in the following buyer’s guides: The Best Portable Tool Boxes, The Best Digital Tape Measures, and The Best Grease Guns.

FAQs

Buying quality power tools can be a pricey prospect. Before making a purchase, you may have a few more questions about DeWalt tools. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions that provide valuable insights to help you make an informed choice.

Q. Where are DeWalt products manufactured?

DeWalt products are manufactured in various locations worldwide, including the United States, Mexico, China, the Czech Republic, and Italy.

Q. Are DeWalt tools compatible with batteries from other brands?

Like all tool brands, DeWalt tools are specifically designed to be used with DeWalt batteries and are not compatible with batteries from other brands.

Q. Are DeWalt PowerStack batteries worth the extra cost?

PowerStack batteries provide more power and torque for operating DeWalt 20V tools. This enhanced ability makes them well suited for those who need to finish demanding projects quickly.

Why Trust Bob Vila 

Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.

Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.