DEWALT Drills Showdown: DCD780C2 versus DCD701F2

Overview of DCD780C2

The DCD780C2 is a 20V MAX* Lithium Ion Compact Cordless Power Drill / Driver Kit from DEWALT. It is known for its compact, lightweight design that fits into tight areas, making it ideal for working in constrained spaces for extended periods. The high-speed transmission allows it to deliver 2-speed variations (0-600 & 0-2,000 rpm), allowing users to choose the level of performance needed for various applications.

This drill/driver kit is also highly ergonomic, with a comfortable handle and a design that does not compromise on power. It includes a 1/2″ ratcheting chuck with carbide inserts that reduce bit slippage during high-torque applications, thus providing longer tool life.

Key Features:

• Compact and lightweight design.
• High-speed transmission delivering 2 speeds (0-600 & 0-2,000 rpm).
• Ergonomic handle for comfort and control.
• 1/2″ ratcheting chuck for superior bit gripping strength.

Package Includes:

1. DCD780 1/2″ Drill Driver.
2. 2 x 20V MAX* Lithium Ion Battery Packs.
3. Charger.
4. Belt Hook.
5. Contractor Bag.

Table of Specifications:

Feature	Details
Product Type	20V MAX* Lithium Ion Compact Cordless Power Drill / Driver Kit
Speed	2 speeds (0-600 & 0-2,000 rpm)
Chuck Size	1/2″
Battery Type	20V MAX* Lithium Ion
Package Inclusions	Drill Driver, 2 Battery Packs, Charger, Belt Hook, Contractor Bag

Overall, the DCD780C2 is built to deliver superior performance in light and medium drilling applications, with built-in DEWALT-designed electronics to provide maximum life for the tool and battery. It is backed by a 3-year limited warranty, making it a reliable choice for commercial and residential builders, remodelers, carpenters, woodworkers, electricians, and plumbers.

Overview of DCD701F2

The DCD701F2 is a 12V MAX* Brushless 3/8 in. Drill Driver from DEWALT. This compact drill driver is known for its enhanced power and efficiency. It has a brushless motor that ensures efficient performance and runtime. Despite being lightweight (1.9 lbs. tool only), it delivers 32% more power and is 20% shorter, making it perfect for precision applications and working in tight spaces.

The DCD701F2 comes with a 3/8 in. ratcheting chuck that accommodates a wide variety of bits. It also features a 2-Speed transmission and 15 clutch settings, making it adaptable for a variety of applications. Another prominent feature is its LED foot light, which provides superior visibility in poorly lit work areas.

Key Features:

• DCD701 12V MAX* Brushless 3/8 in. Drill Driver with 32% more power**
• 20% shorter design for tight spaces.
• Brushless motor for efficient performance and runtime.
• 3/8 in. ratcheting chuck for a wide variety of bits.
• 2-Speed transmission and 15 clutch settings.
• LED foot light for superior visibility.
• Lightweight at 1.9 lbs. (Tool Only).

Package Includes:

1. DCD701B – 12V MAX* Brushless 3/8 in Drill Driver.
2. 2 x DCB122 – 12V MAX* Batteries With State of Charge Indicator.
3. 12V MAX* – 20V MAX† Charger.
4. Belt Clip.
5. Tool Bag.

Table of Specifications:

Feature	Details
Product Type	12V MAX* Brushless 3/8 in. Drill/Driver
Power	32% more power**
Size	20% shorter design
Chuck Size	3/8 in
Battery Type	12V MAX* with state of charge indicator
Package Inclusions	Drill Driver, 2 Battery Packs, Charger, Belt Clip, Tool Bag

In conclusion, the DCD701F2 is a compact and performance-packed tool ideal for precision applications like drilling small pilot holes. It can handle up to a 12-inch spade bit and is only 5.97-inch in length. The drill/driver kit includes a 3/8-inch drill/driver, two 12V MAX* 2Ah batteries with a state of charge indicator, a charger, a belt clip, and a tool bag.

Summary of Specifications: DCD780C2 and DCD701F2

Specification	DCD780C2	DCD701F2
Product Type	20V MAX* Lithium Ion Compact Cordless Power Drill / Driver Kit	12V MAX* Brushless 3/8 in. Drill/Driver
No Load Speed (RPM)	0-600/2000	0-425/0-1500
Battery Chemistry	XR Li-ion	N/A
Battery Capacity	1.5 Ah	N/A
Uncertainty K1 (Vibration)	1.5 m/s2	N/A
Power Output	350 W	250 W
Voltage	18 V	12 V
Uncertainty K2 (Vibration)	1.5 m/s2	N/A
Brushless	No	Yes
Chuck Size	1/2 in	0.37 in
Tool Length	N/A	5.97 in
Product Length	N/A	5.97 in
Tool Weight	N/A	1.9 lbs
Product Height	N/A	4.25 in
Power Source	Cordless	Cordless
Power Input	N/A	900 W
Product Weight	N/A	2 lbs

This summary table provides a side-by-side comparison of the key specifications of the DCD780C2 and DCD701F2 drill/drivers. Both are cordless and have different strengths suited to different applications. The DCD780C2 operates at a higher voltage and has a higher power output, while the DCD701F2 is a brushless model with a compact design and lighter weight.

User reviews of DCD780C2

Summary of Positive User Reviews for DCD780C2

• Many users have complimented the power and reliability of the DCD780C2, stating it’s suitable for both DIY and professional use.
• Positive remarks were made about its intuitive use, with 15 different torque settings and 2 speeds.
• The device’s durability was praised, especially the case which is said to be very sturdy and well-organised.
• Users have appreciated the fast battery charging times (about 20-25 minutes), and the additional battery included in the set.
• Its lightweight and well-balanced design were highly regarded, making it comfortable for prolonged use.
• The drill’s ability to perform well in heavy-duty tasks, like drilling through concrete and metal, was highlighted.
• Users also appreciated the LED light feature which provides illumination for the drill area.
• The battery design was praised for being user-friendly and easy to swap out, even for users with smaller hands.
• The drill has been commended for its long battery life which ensures minimal interruption to the workflow.
• Many users were pleased with the high torque, even at low RPMs, and the speed control via the trigger.
• Finally, several users mentioned that they would purchase the DCD780C2 again, indicating high satisfaction with the product.

Summary of Critical User Reviews for DCD780C2

• Several users reported issues with motor burnout and sparking, which they attributed to manufacturing defects.
• Some users had a problem with the chuck wobbling, which they considered a sign of poor quality.
• There were complaints about the short battery life, with some users mentioning that the drill slowed down after driving only a few screws.
• Customers were disappointed with the warranty service by Dewalt, describing it as terrible and stating that the company does not stand by their products.
• Several users claimed that the package they received did not match the product description, notably missing items like the plastic case, driver bit holder, and bit clip.
• There were criticisms about the LED light which suffers from shadow cast by the chuck when up close to the target surface.
• One user mentioned that the manual was weak, presented on one sheet of paper with a small font, which could be improved with a booklet.
• Lastly, a few users were upset that the product they received seemed used, with scratches on the case and resealed packaging.

User reviews of DCD701F2

Summary of Positive User Reviews of DCD701F2

• Many users find the DCD701F2 to be just the right size and power for their needs, making it versatile for various tasks.
• It is praised for being compact, easy to maneuver, and well made, which contributes to its overall user-friendly design.
• Users appreciated its power, even though it’s a 12-volt tool. It’s suitable for performing both light and heavy tasks around the house.
• The long-lasting battery life is a highlight for many users. The added convenience of having two batteries allows continuous work as one battery can charge while the other is in use.
• Users found it comfortable to handle, credit given to its lightweight design and good fit in hand, indicating a superior design.
• The drill is also commended for its ability to perform additional tasks like screwing screws, which adds to its versatility.
• Users noted that despite the smaller battery, it uses the same charger as larger DeWalt batteries which reduces the need for multiple chargers.
• Overall, users agree that the DCD701F2 is a powerful, comfortable, and excellent choice for home use.

Summary of Critical User Reviews of DCD701F2

• Several users have complained about DeWalt’s poor customer service, with long waiting times and inefficient resolution of issues.
• There are instances where the drill chuck unscrews and detaches from the drill during use, which contributes to a poor user experience.
• Users reported motor failure just over a year of light household use, indicating possible durability issues.
• Some users experienced intermittent power lulls, which led to inconsistent performance of the drill.
• Critical reviews pointed out issues with the charger (DCB112) that comes with the drill. Users reported it as defective and unable to provide a sufficient charge.
• Several users reported issues with the batteries that either did not hold charge or were completely defective.
• There are complaints about the drill’s packaging. One user received the drill with a torn bag, which resulted in additional inconvenience.
• A few users mentioned the drill chuck does not hold the drill bit securely, even after tightening, which can potentially affect the drill’s performance.
• Some users received drills with defective batteries, requiring replacements. One user noted that even the replacement battery did not charge properly.
• One user reported that the drill was unable to perform a simple task such as screwing in a sheetrock screw without stopping, indicating issues with the drill’s overall functionality.

Pros and Cons of the Compared Products

Pros/Cons of DCD780C2

Pros	Cons
Powerful and reliable, suitable for both DIY and professional use.	Some users reported motor burnout and sparking due to manufacturing defects.
Intuitive use with 15 different torque settings and 2 speeds.	Issues of chuck wobbling, indicating poor quality.
Highly durable, with a sturdy and well-organised case.	Complaints about short battery life, with the drill slowing down after only a few screws.
Fast battery charging times (about 20-25 minutes), and the additional battery included in the set.	Disappointment with Dewalt’s warranty service, described as terrible and unresponsive.
Lightweight and well-balanced, comfortable for prolonged use.	Received packages did not match product description, with missing items like the case, driver bit holder, and bit clip.
Performs well in heavy-duty tasks like drilling through concrete and metal.	Criticisms about the LED light, which suffers from shadow cast by the chuck when close to the target surface.
LED light feature provides illumination for the drill area.	Weak manual, presented on a single sheet with a small font.
User-friendly battery design, easy to swap out, even for users with smaller hands.	Some users reported receiving what seemed to be used products, with scratches on the case and resealed packaging.
Long battery life ensures minimal interruption to the workflow.
High torque, even at low RPMs, and speed control via the trigger.
Many users would purchase the DCD780C2 again, indicating high satisfaction with the product.

Pros/Cons of DCD701F2

Pros	Cons
The right size and power for various tasks, versatile.	Poor customer service from DeWalt, with long waiting times and inefficient resolution of issues.
Compact, easy to maneuver, and well made.	Drill chuck unscrews and detaches from the drill during use.
Powerful for a 12-volt tool, suitable for both light and heavy tasks around the house.	Motor failure reported after just over a year of light household use.
Long-lasting battery life, with the convenience of having two batteries.	Intermittent power lulls leading to inconsistent performance.
Comfortable to handle, lightweight design and good fit in hand.	Issues with the charger (DCB112) that comes with the drill, reported as defective and unable to provide a sufficient charge.
Ability to perform additional tasks like screwing screws, adding to its versatility.	Issues with the batteries that either did not hold charge or were completely defective.
Uses the same charger as larger DeWalt batteries, reducing the need for multiple chargers.	Complaints about the drill’s packaging, with occurrences like receiving the drill with a torn bag.
Regarded as a powerful, comfortable, and excellent choice for home use.	Drill chuck does not hold the drill bit securely, even after tightening.
	Some users received drills with defective batteries, requiring replacements. One user noted that even the replacement battery did not charge properly.
	One user reported inability to perform a simple task such as screwing in a sheetrock screw without stopping.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the DCD780C2 and the DCD701F2 drill/drivers offer unique features suitable for various applications. The DCD780C2 is characterized by its high power output and higher voltage, making it ideal for heavier-duty tasks. On the other hand, the DCD701F2, with its compact design, lightweight, and brushless motor, is perfect for precision applications and tighter spaces. Choosing the right drill/driver ultimately depends on your specific needs, the nature of your projects, and your preference for certain features.