DeWalt

DeWalt buying guide

DeWalt is our second platform. We run DeWalt 20V MAX alongside Milwaukee, and we usually add to it when the free-tool deals hit at Lowe's or Home Depot. This guide covers how the DeWalt battery systems fit together, what the warranty covers and how to read the deals. It is a buying guide, not a review.

DeWalt at a glance

How the DeWalt batteries fit together

20V MAX

This is the everyday line: drills, impacts, saws, grinders, lights, nailers and outdoor tools. ATOMIC tools are the compact versions; XTREME is the subcompact 12V-class size that runs on 20V MAX packs. If you are starting with DeWalt, start here.

FLEXVOLT

FLEXVOLT batteries switch voltage automatically: they run 60V MAX tools (big saws, grinders, rotary hammers) and also fit 20V MAX tools. A FLEXVOLT pack in a 20V drill is heavy but runs a long time. 20V MAX packs do not run 60V tools.

12V MAX

A separate compact system with its own batteries. Good for trades that live in tight spaces, but it does not share packs with 20V MAX.

How the DeWalt deals work

DeWalt promotions usually look like "buy a battery starter kit, get one, two or three bare tools free," or "buy a kit, get a free battery." Our live deals page tracks the current ones with their end dates. Before you buy:

1. Price the batteries first. In most free-tool deals you are really paying for the batteries; the tools are the bonus.
2. Check the free-tool list. The best tools on the list are often bare FLEXVOLT or premium 20V tools. Pick tools you will use.
3. Read the fine print. Some promos are in-store only or online only, and some require both items in the same cart.
4. Keep the receipt with both items listed. Returns on promo bundles can be complicated.

See it at Lowe's: DeWalt 20V MAX battery starter kit See it at Home Depot: DeWalt 20V MAX kit Check price on Amazon: DeWalt 20V MAX 5Ah battery

Warranty and service

DeWalt's standard US coverage for most tools is a 3-year limited warranty, 1 year of free service (maintenance and parts that wear out under normal use), and a 90-day money-back guarantee. Some products have different terms, and DeWalt says products must be bought from authorized sellers. To make a claim:

1. Keep a photo of the receipt and the tool's model and date code.
2. Use the service center locator on dewalt.com or call DeWalt support.
3. Don't open the tool first. Unauthorized repairs can void coverage.

Register your tools on DeWalt's site or in Tool Connect so you have a record; see our register and track guide.

Our take so far

We run DeWalt because the free-tool deals make it cheap to add specialty tools and because some DeWalt tools fit our jobs better than the Milwaukee versions. We don't name a winner between our two platforms; each one earns its place on different jobs. The field notes page lists what our crew watches for with each kind of tool on real jobs.

FAQ

Do FLEXVOLT batteries work in 20V MAX tools?

Yes. FLEXVOLT packs run both 60V MAX and 20V MAX tools. Regular 20V MAX packs do not run 60V MAX tools.

What does DeWalt's 1-year free service cover?

DeWalt will maintain the tool and replace parts worn by normal use, free of charge, during the first year. The 3-year warranty covers defects in material and workmanship.

Is the Lowe's "buy batteries, get tools free" deal worth it?

It is worth it if you need the batteries anyway and would use the free tools. Do the math on the battery kit price first. Our deals page shows the current terms.

Are 12V MAX and 20V MAX batteries interchangeable?

No. They are separate systems.

Sources

• DeWalt, Warranty: https://www.dewalt.com/en-us/support/warranty
• Mas Equipo, Who owns what tool brand: https://masequipo.com/who-owns-what/