DeWalt DCD796 vs Makita DHP484 UK: Which Combi Drill Is Better?
The DeWalt DCD796 and Makita DHP484 are two of the most popular compact brushless combi drills in the UK, and they are closely matched. The bigger decision is usually which battery platform you want to be on. Here is how DCD796 vs DHP484 compares.
Some links on this page are affiliate links, we may earn a commission if you sign up, at no extra cost to you.
On paper the DeWalt DCD796 has a little more torque and a faster hammer action, and is lighter on the makers’ figures. The Makita DHP484 has more torque settings and XPT dust and water protection. If you already own batteries for either brand, buy that brand’s drill. If you are starting fresh, choose the battery platform first.
DCD796 vs DHP484 at a Glance
| Feature | DeWalt DCD796 | Makita DHP484 |
|---|---|---|
| Max torque | 70 Nm (hard joint) | 60 Nm (Makita figure) |
| No-load speed | 0 to 550 / 0 to 2,000 rpm | 0 to 500 / 0 to 2,000 rpm |
| Hammer rate | 0 to 34,000 bpm | 0 to 30,000 ipm |
| Capacity: wood / masonry / steel | 40 / 13 / 13 mm | 38 / 13 / 13 mm |
| Chuck | 1.5 to 13 mm | Keyless 13 mm |
| Torque settings | Clutch with multiple settings | 21 |
| Weight (body only) | About 1.2 kg | 1.6 kg |
| Dust and water protection | Not listed | XPT |
| Battery platform | DeWalt 18V XR | Makita 18V LXT |
The Key Differences
Power and hammer action
DeWalt lists the DCD796 at 70 Nm with up to 34,000 blows per minute. Makita lists the DHP484 at 60 Nm with up to 30,000 impacts per minute. Both top out at 2,000 rpm and drill 13 mm in masonry and steel. In practice these are both mid-size compact drills, and either will handle everyday drilling and fixing.
Weight and build
The makers list the DCD796 at about 1.2 kg body only and the DHP484 at 1.6 kg body only, though they measure differently. The Makita has Makita’s XPT dust and water protection, all-metal gears and 21 torque settings, which is useful for consistent screwdriving.
Battery platform
This usually matters more than the drill itself. DeWalt 18V XR and Makita 18V LXT are both large ranges with heavy-duty tools, storage systems and site radios. If you already own one brand’s batteries, stick with it. If not, read our DeWalt vs Makita vs Milwaukee guide before buying.
Availability
Makita’s New Zealand site lists the DHP484 as discontinued, as newer models have been introduced. It is still sold in the UK, but stock and kit options vary. The DCD796 is widely sold in the UK in kits and twin packs.
The Two Combi Drills
1. DeWalt DCD796P1 (kit)
Best for DeWalt users70 Nm brushless combi drill with up to 34,000 bpm hammer action and a 13 mm chuck. This kit includes one battery and a charger.
2. Makita DHP484RTJ (kit)
Best for Makita users60 Nm brushless combi drill with 21 torque settings, XPT protection and twin LED job light. This kit includes two 5.0Ah batteries and a charger in a Makpac case.
Which Should You Buy?
- Already on DeWalt 18V XR: DCD796.
- Already on Makita 18V LXT: DHP484, or see our DHP484 vs DHP485 comparison for a lighter option.
- Want more power from DeWalt: see our DCD796 vs DCD805 comparison.
- Comparing more drills: see our best combi drills guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, the DeWalt DCD796 or Makita DHP484?
They are closely matched. The DCD796 has more torque on DeWalt’s figures (70 Nm against Makita’s 60 Nm) and a faster hammer action. The DHP484 has 21 torque settings and XPT protection. The best choice is usually the brand whose batteries you already own.
Can I use Makita batteries in a DeWalt drill?
No. DeWalt 18V XR and Makita 18V LXT batteries are not compatible with each other’s tools without third-party adapters, which we do not recommend.
Is the DCD796 or DHP484 lighter?
On the makers’ figures, the DCD796 is lighter at about 1.2 kg body only against 1.6 kg for the DHP484, but the two brands measure weight differently.
Related Guides
- All Tool Comparisons UK
- DeWalt DCD796 vs DCD805 UK
- Makita DHP484 vs DHP485 UK
- DeWalt vs Makita vs Milwaukee UK
- Best Combi Drills UK for Tradespeople
As an Amazon Associate, TradeStack HQ earns from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links, we may earn a commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you. Product details are taken from manufacturer and Amazon UK listings as of November 2026.