DeWALT Atomic 20V Multi Head Drill Review vs Milwaukee
The Best Do It All Drill? DeWALT 20V 5-in-1 Review and Power Comparison
Looking for the perfect all-around drill for your woodworking shop, DIY projects, or jobsite work? The new DeWALT Atomic 20V MAX Multi-Head Drill might just be the most versatile and powerful drill DeWALT has ever made. In this post, we’re diving deep into how it stacks up against its competitors like the Milwaukee M12 and DeWALT 12V versions, what makes it so good, and why it could become your go-to tool.
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DeWALT’s New 20V Multi-Head Drill Is a Game Changer
Why the DeWALT 20V Multi-Head Drill Deserves a Spot in Your Shop
DeWALT just dropped what might be the most versatile drill they’ve ever made — the ATOMIC 20V MAX Multi-Head Drill. It's part of the compact Atomic series but delivers full-size power. If you’ve been holding off on upgrading your drill setup, this might be the one that finally replaces your old favorite.
Whether you’re a weekend DIYer or a full-time pro, this drill is loaded with features that solve real woodworking headaches — tight spaces, low clearance, awkward angles. Plus, it absolutely smoked the Milwaukee M12 and DeWALT 12V in side-by-side testing. Let’s break down why it’s a must-have for your shop.
What Makes the DeWALT 20V Multi-Head Drill So Special?
5 Tools in 1 🔁
This drill comes with four interchangeable heads:
Quarter-inch impact driver head
Standard keyless drill chuck
Offset head for getting up close to edges
90° head that locks in 16 positions for awkward angles
But here’s the kicker: you can combine heads. That’s why it’s called a 5-in-1. Perfect for getting into tight spots other drills just can’t reach.
Power That Doesn’t Quit ⚡
Compared to its 12V cousins, this 20V version absolutely flies through heavy-duty jobs. It handled lag bolts, Forstner bits, and 4-inch screws like a champ with zero bogging. If you need a one-and-done solution for drilling and driving, this is it.
Smooth Handling and Compact Design 🤲
Despite all that power, this tool is compact and lightweight — thanks to the Atomic Compact Series design. It’s easy on the hands, especially with the ergonomically shaped grip. If grip strength or arthritis is a concern, consider the 12V version for a smaller, lighter tool.
Compatible with All DeWALT 20V Batteries 🔋
Already have DeWALT 20V batteries? You're golden. This tool works with:
DeWALT vs Milwaukee vs DeWALT 12V
All three drills (Milwaukee M12, DeWALT 12V, and DeWALT 20V) come with the same attachments. But here’s how they stack up:
In Power Tests:
Milwaukee M12: Got the job done but stalled on larger lag bolts
DeWALT 12V: Similar result, a little underpowered
DeWALT 20V: Blew them away in every test
Ease of Use:
Milwaukee has a funky forward-reverse button up top that takes getting used to
DeWALT’s heads click on and off like butter — even easier on the 20V than the 12V
Storage:
Milwaukee PACKOUT plus 3D Printed Insert keeps everything together
DeWALT includes a mountable storage block for your heads
Real-World Woodworking Uses
Here’s where this drill really shines:
Pocket holes in tight spaces — using the 90° head
Installing furniture hardware — the offset head lets you get close to edges
Under-table work — drill from awkward angles without hurting your wrist
Driving screws near obstructions — think tight cabinet frames or under-shelf installs
Pair it with a good bit set like the DeWALT Drill and Impact Bit Set or the Irwin Forstner Bit Set and you’ve got a complete setup.
Final Thoughts
If you’re picking just one multi-head drill, go with the DeWALT 20V MAX ATOMIC Multi-Head Drill. It’s more powerful, easier to use, and far more future-proof than the 12V options. I’ll still keep my Milwaukee M12 around, but this DeWALT just earned a permanent spot on the bench.
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