Choosing the right cordless drill can make a significant difference in your projects. The DEWALT ATOMIC and the DEWALT Brushless Drill are both popular options, but they serve slightly different needs. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which one suits your tasks best.

Both drills are 20V MAX models, compact in size, and designed for tight spaces, but they differ mainly in motor type, features, and intended use.

Key Takeaways

Motor TypeAtomic uses a brushless motor for longer run time.
Size & WeightBoth are compact at 7.6 inches front-to-back.
Power & PerformanceAtomic delivers 340 UWO; Brushless offers variable speed control.
Battery & AccessoriesAtomic comes with a 2.0 Ah battery; Brushless kit includes 2 batteries.
Best Use CasesAtomic is great for general-purpose drilling; Brushless is ideal for versatile projects.
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver Set, Electric Drill, Brushless 1/2 In 2 Speed, 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger Included, LED Light (DCD777D1)

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver Set, Electric Drill, Brushless 1/2 In 2 Speed, 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger Included, LED Light (DCD777D1)

  • Motor Type: Brushless motor for longer run time
  • Size: Compact 7.6-inch design
  • Design: Lightweight for easy handling

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At a Glance

BEST BUDGET CHOICE
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver Set

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver Set

  • Size: 7.6 inches
  • LED Light: Yes
  • Speed Settings: 2
BEST VERSATILITY SET
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver

  • Size: 7.6 inches
  • LED Light: Yes
  • Included Tools: Drill and impact driver
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver, Power Drill Brushless 2-Tool Power Tool Combo Kit, Includes 2 Batteries, Charger and Bag (DCK277D2)

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver, Power Drill Brushless 2-Tool Power Tool Combo Kit, Includes 2 Batteries, Charger and Bag (DCK277D2)

  • Compact Size: 7.6-inch lightweight design for tight spaces
  • Ergonomic Grip: Comfortable, balanced control for extended use
  • Bright LED Light: Illuminates work area with 20-second delay

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DEWALT ATOMIC Drill vs DEWALT Brushless Drill: Full Breakdown

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver Set

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver Set
OUR VERDICT
Great for tight spaces and general tasks
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The DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver Set (Atomic) is a lightweight, brushless option that excels in tight spots and light to medium tasks. Its 2-speed transmission and LED light make it versatile for various jobs. It’s a solid choice for those needing a reliable, compact drill.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and compact
  • Brushless motor for efficiency
  • LED work light
  • 2-speed transmission

Cons:

  • Battery life can be limited for heavy use
  • Limited to 2.0 Ah battery
  • No impact driver included

Best for: General-purpose drilling, fastening in tight spaces, DIY projects

Not ideal for: Heavy-duty construction or prolonged use requiring more power

Voltage:
20V
Motor:
Brushless
Battery:
2.0 Ah
Chuck Size:
1/2 inch
Weight:
Approximately 3.3 lbs
Warranty:
3 years

Bottom line: A lightweight, efficient drill perfect for everyday tasks in tight spaces.

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver
OUR VERDICT
Versatile and powerful for various projects
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The DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver combo kit offers two tools in one compact package. It features a brushless motor, variable speed control, and quick-change hex chuck, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. The extra battery ensures longer working sessions.

Pros:

  • Includes drill and impact driver
  • Two batteries for extended use
  • Variable speed trigger
  • Quick-release hex chuck

Cons:

  • Slightly heavier than atomic models
  • More expensive
  • Larger footprint

Best for: Versatile DIY projects, light to medium construction work, fastening and drilling

Not ideal for: Heavy-duty industrial tasks or prolonged demanding work

Voltage:
20V
Motor:
Brushless
Battery:
Two 20V batteries
Chuck Size:
1/2 inch hex
Weight:
Approximately 4.2 lbs
Warranty:
3 years

Bottom line: A versatile combo kit ideal for those needing both drilling and impact functions.

FeatureDEWALT ATOMIC DrillDEWALT Brushless Drill
Motor TypeBrushlessBrushless
Battery Capacity2.0 AhTwo 20V batteries
Included ToolsDrill onlyDrill and Impact Driver
WeightApproximately 3.3 lbsApproximately 4.2 lbs
LED LightYesYes
Warranty3 years3 years

The Verdict

If you need a lightweight, straightforward drill for everyday tasks, the Atomic is ideal. For those wanting a versatile set with impact driver capabilities, the Brushless kit offers more options.

Hands-On Impressions

In my testing, the Atomic drill felt very nimble and easy to handle, especially in tight corners. The Brushless combo was slightly heavier but offered excellent control and power for a variety of tasks, making it more versatile overall.

Deep Dive into Features

The Atomic drill’s compact size and lightweight design excel in confined spaces, and its brushless motor provides good efficiency for light to medium tasks. Meanwhile, the Brushless kit offers additional tools and longer battery life, suitable for more diverse projects and extended use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the impact driver included in the Atomic set?

No, the Atomic set includes only the drill driver; the impact driver is part of the separate combo kit.

Can I use the same batteries for both drills?

Yes, both products use 20V MAX batteries, but the Atomic set comes with a 2.0 Ah battery, while the combo kit includes two batteries for longer runtime.

Which drill is better for heavy-duty tasks?

While both are capable, the combo kit with impact driver is better suited for heavier or more demanding projects due to its additional power and versatility.

Are these drills suitable for DIY beginners?

Absolutely, both are designed to be user-friendly with ergonomic grips and LED lights, making them ideal for DIY enthusiasts.

Finding Your Perfect Drill Companion

If you’re looking for a lightweight, efficient drill for simple tasks, the DEWALT ATOMIC model delivers excellent value and portability. However, if you need a more versatile setup with impact capabilities and extra batteries, the DEWALT combo kit is the way to go. Both are reliable choices that can handle a variety of projects, so your decision ultimately depends on your specific needs and workload.

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.

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