Makita or CRAFTSMAN? Drill Drivers Compared in 2026
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This comparison looks at the makita vs CRAFTSMAN drill driver options for your workshop. Both tools are cordless and designed for fastening and drilling tasks. The Makita is a dedicated impact driver with a brushless motor. The CRAFTSMAN is a hammer drill kit that includes batteries and a charger. You need to decide between a specialized, lightweight driver and a versatile, kit-based drill system based on your specific power and convenience needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | Makita 18V LXT Brushless Impact Driver | CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX 1/2-Inch Cordless Hammer Drill Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 18V | 20V MAX |
| Motor Type | Brushless | not listed |
| Max Torque | 1,500 inch pounds | not listed |
| Chuck Size | not listed | 1/2 in. |
| Battery Included | Tool Only | 2 batteries (2 Ah), charger |
| Weight (Tool Only) | 1.9 pounds | 2.66 lbs |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Makita 18V LXT Brushless Impact Driver if
- You want a dedicated impact driver with high torque output for fastening
- You prefer a lighter tool that reduces arm fatigue during overhead use
- You already own compatible 18V LXT batteries and do not need a kit
Choose CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX 1/2-Inch Cordless Hammer Drill Kit if
- You need a complete setup with batteries and a charger included
- You require a hammer drill function for masonry or masonry-like materials
- You want a tool with a standard 1/2-inch chuck for larger drill bits
Verdict: The Makita suits professionals who prioritize torque, efficiency, and a lightweight form factor for repetitive fastening. The CRAFTSMAN is better for users who want a ready-to-use kit with drilling versatility and hammer drill capabilities. Your choice depends on whether you value specialized power or an all-in-one solution.
Makita vs CRAFTSMAN Drill Specs
motor type
The Makita XDT13Z features a brushless motor, which eliminates carbon brushes to run cooler and more efficiently. This design optimizes battery energy use for longer run time per charge. The CRAFTSMAN CMCD712D2 does not specify its motor type in the provided data. Brushless technology generally offers better durability and performance over time. If motor efficiency is a priority for your daily tasks, the Makita's explicit brushless construction gives it a clear advantage in modern tool standards.
voltage
You should consider the voltage rating when choosing between these two tools. The CRAFTSMAN hammer drill operates at 20V MAX, while the Makita impact driver runs on an 18V LXT system. Higher voltage often correlates with increased power potential under load. The CRAFTSMAN offers a slightly higher nominal voltage specification. This difference may matter if you frequently drive large fasteners or drill into dense materials where maximum torque is critical for your specific workflow.
included tools
The CRAFTSMAN kit includes two 2 Ah batteries, a charger, and a double-ended bit, making it a complete ready-to-use package. The Makita XDT13Z is sold as a tool only, meaning you must purchase batteries and a charger separately. If you are building a new system or lack compatible power sources, the CRAFTSMAN provides immediate value and convenience. The Makita is better suited for existing Makita LXT users who already own the necessary power supplies.
weight
Weight affects comfort during extended use, especially in overhead or tight spaces. The Makita impact driver weighs 1.9 pounds as a bare tool. The CRAFTSMAN hammer drill weighs 2.66 pounds for the tool only. The Makita is significantly lighter, which can reduce arm fatigue during long periods of fastening. If you prioritize a lighter tool for precision work or overhead applications, the Makita offers a tangible ergonomic advantage due to its lower mass.
torque and speed
The Makita delivers 1,500 inch-pounds of max torque with variable speeds up to 3,400 RPM and 3,600 IPM. The CRAFTSMAN features a 2-speed transmission with up to 1,700 RPM, but specific torque figures are not listed in the data. The Makita's higher speed and explicit torque rating suggest it is built for rapid fastening and high-output tasks. The CRAFTSMAN's lower RPM may be sufficient for general drilling but lacks the detailed performance metrics of the Makita.
Which drill driver suits your needs
You need high torque for fastening
The Makita XDT13Z delivers 1,500 inch-pounds of max torque. Its brushless motor optimizes energy use for longer run time per charge. The variable speed range up to 3,600 IPM handles demanding fastening tasks efficiently. This tool-only model is lighter at 1.9 pounds, making it ideal for repetitive screwdriving jobs where raw power matters most.
You want a complete drilling kit
The CRAFTSMAN CMCD712D2 comes as a full kit with two 2 Ah batteries and a charger. It includes a 1/2-inch chuck for versatile bit compatibility and a hammer drill function for masonry. The 2-speed transmission offers up to 1,700 RPM. This option provides immediate readiness with all necessary accessories included in the package.
You require a hammer drill function
Only the CRAFTSMAN model is specified as a hammer drill. This feature allows you to drill into masonry and concrete surfaces. The 1/2-inch chuck accepts a wider range of drill bits compared to impact driver sockets. The included 2.66-pound tool weight helps minimize arm fatigue during extended overhead or tough drilling tasks.
The products compared
Makita 18V LXT Brushless Impact Driver
Best for: Makita battery users needing high torque
- Power Source
- 18V LXT
- Voltage
- 18V
- Maximum Torque
- 1,500 inch pounds
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Number of Tools
- 1
- Included Tools
- Impact Driver
View on Amazon: Makita 18V LXT Brushless Impact Driver Affiliate link
This Makita impact driver features a brushless motor that delivers 1,500 inch-pounds of max torque. It offers variable speeds up to 3,400 RPM and 3,600 IPM for precise fastening. The tool weighs 1.9 pounds and measures 3.5 inches in length. It is sold as a bare tool without batteries. You will need compatible 18V LXT batteries to use it.
Pros
- BL Brushless motor provides 1,500 inch-pounds of max torque
- Variable speed reaches 3,400 RPM and 3,600 IPM
- Brushless design runs cooler and extends battery life by up to 50 percent
Cons
- Sold as a tool only with no batteries included
- Impact driver only, lacking hammer drill functionality
- Heavier and larger than the CRAFTSMAN 1/2 inch hammer drill on this list
Good fit if
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You need high torque for driving large fasteners
- You want a compact tool under 4 inches long
Skip if
- You need a hammer drill for masonry work
- You want a complete kit with batteries and charger
- You prefer a lighter tool under 1.5 pounds
Verdict: Makita 18V Brushless Impact Driver offers strong torque and efficient brushless performance for users with existing Makita batteries. It suits those needing a dedicated fastening tool rather than a general-purpose drill.
CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX 1/2-Inch Cordless Hammer Drill Kit
Best for: Lightweight general drilling tasks
- Power Source
- 20V MAX cordless
- Voltage
- 20V MAX
- Chuck Size
- 1/2 in.
- Battery Included
- 2 batteries (2 Ah), charger
- Speed Settings
- 2-speed
- Tool Weight
- 2.66 lbs (tool only)
View on Amazon: CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX 1/2-Inch Cordless Hammer Drill Kit Affiliate link
This CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX hammer drill features a 1/2-inch chuck and a 2.66 lb tool weight. It offers a 2-speed transmission with up to 1,700 RPM and includes two 2 Ah batteries. The design minimizes arm fatigue for tight spaces. It suits users needing a lightweight, cordless solution for general drilling tasks with basic organization options.
Pros
- Lightweight 2.66 lb tool-only design
- Includes two 2 Ah batteries and charger
- 2-speed transmission with 1,700 RPM
- Bright onboard LED for visibility
Cons
- 2.0 Ah battery capacity is lower than typical competitor kits
- Only 2 speed settings compared to 4-speed alternatives
- VersaTrack accessories sold separately
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight drill for tight spaces
- You prefer a 1/2-inch chuck for larger bits
- You want a cordless hammer drill with included batteries
Skip if
- You require variable speed control beyond 2 settings
- You need high-capacity batteries for long runtime
- You want a brushless motor for maximum efficiency
Verdict: CRAFTSMAN 20V Hammer Drill is a solid choice for users prioritizing lightweight handling and basic hammer drilling capabilities over advanced speed settings or high-capacity batteries.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Makita 18V LXT Brushless Impact Driver | CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX 1/2-Inch Cordless Hammer Drill Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | 18V LXT | 20V MAX cordless |
| Voltage | 18V | 20V MAX |
| Maximum Torque | 1,500 inch pounds | not stated |
| Chuck Size | not stated | 1/2 in. |
| Motor Type | Brushless | not stated |
| Battery Included | not stated | 2 batteries (2 Ah), charger |
| Number of Tools | 1 | not stated |
| Included Tools | Impact Driver | not stated |
| Speed Settings | not stated | 2-speed |
| Tool Weight | 1.9 pounds | 2.66 lbs (tool only) |
| Battery Capacity | not stated | 2.0 Ah |
| Dimensions | 3.5 × 8.3 × 6.5 inches | 8.43 × 5.08 × 8.5 inches |
| Weight | 1.9 pounds | 5.42 pounds |
| Size | One Size | not stated |
| Color | Factory | Black, Red |
| Model | XDT13Z | CMCD712D2 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Makita impact driver a drill?
No, it is a dedicated impact driver. The Makita XDT13Z is designed for fastening screws and driving bolts, not general drilling. It lacks a keyless chuck found on standard drill drivers. If you need to drill holes, this tool is not the right choice. It pairs well with existing Makita batteries for high-torque tasks.
Does the CRAFTSMAN kit include a battery?
Yes, the CRAFTSMAN CMCD712D2 is sold as a kit. It includes a 2.0 Ah battery along with the drill driver and hammer drill. The Makita option is a bare tool, meaning you must purchase batteries separately. This makes the CRAFTSMAN a more complete package for users without existing power tool batteries.
Which tool is lighter to carry?
The Makita XDT13Z is significantly lighter. It weighs just 1.9 pounds. The CRAFTSMAN kit weighs 5.42 pounds due to the included battery and larger housing. If you work overhead or need to move frequently, the Makita’s lower weight reduces fatigue during extended use.
Can the CRAFTSMAN drill hammer into concrete?
Yes, the CRAFTSMAN CMCD712D2 is a hammer drill. It includes hammer drilling capabilities for masonry work. The Makita impact driver cannot hammer drill. It is strictly for fastening. If you need to drill into brick or concrete, the CRAFTSMAN is the necessary choice for your workshop.
What is the difference in motor technology?
The Makita uses a brushless motor, while the CRAFTSMAN does not specify this feature. Brushless motors eliminate carbon brushes, running cooler and more efficiently. This design optimizes battery energy use for longer run times. The CRAFTSMAN motor type remains unspecified in the available data.
Which tool offers more torque?
The Makita XDT13Z is built for high torque. It delivers 1,500 inch-pounds of max torque. This makes it ideal for demanding fastening tasks. The CRAFTSMAN is designed for lightweight general drilling. It prioritizes handling over raw torque output for fastening applications.
Does the Makita come with a battery?
No, the Makita XDT13Z is a bare tool. It does not include a battery or charger. You must use existing Makita 18V LXT batteries. The CRAFTSMAN kit includes a 2.0 Ah battery. This is a key difference if you are starting a new tool collection.