DeWalt vs Makita Site Radios (2026): DCR029 vs DMR115 and DMR301

ByTradeStack HQ

If you are choosing a site radio, the first question is usually DeWalt or Makita, because the radio should run on the batteries you already own. Here is how DeWalt vs Makita site radios compare, model by model, and one Makita trap to avoid.

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Quick answer

Buy the radio that matches your batteries. DeWalt users should look at the DCR029, which runs on DeWalt packs from 12V to 54V or mains. Makita users have the DMR115 for DAB+ and the DMR301, which also charges your batteries. Watch out for Makita’s MR002GZ: it is FM and AM only, with no DAB.

How we chose: we compared published specifications and features from each manufacturer and its Amazon UK listing. We have not hands-on tested these products side by side, so we only state what the listings confirm. Check the exact model number before you buy, as features vary across each range.

DeWalt vs Makita Site Radios at a Glance

RadioPowerKey detail from the listing
DeWalt DCR029DeWalt 12V to 54V packs or mainsDAB+, FM and AM, Bluetooth, 30W speakers, adjustable equaliser
Makita DMR115Makita batteries or ACDAB and DAB+, Bluetooth, My EQ mode, aluminium guard
Makita DMR301Makita CXT or LXT batteries or mainsDAB and DAB+, Bluetooth, charges batteries, two USB ports
Makita MR002GZMakita 12V Max to 40V MaxFM and AM only (no DAB), Bluetooth, IP65

The Key Differences Between DeWalt and Makita Radios

Batteries

DeWalt lists the DCR029 as running on its Li-ion batteries from 12V to 54V, or on 230/240V mains. Makita lists the DMR115 as dual power, AC or Makita batteries, and notes it is not compatible with Ni-Cad, Ni-MH or G-Series batteries. The DMR301 runs on Makita CXT or LXT batteries or mains, and can also charge your batteries.

Sound

DeWalt lists 30W speakers with a customisable equaliser on the DCR029. Makita’s DMR115 has a My EQ mode that lets you adjust treble, midrange and bass separately. Both have Bluetooth for streaming from your phone.

The DAB trap

Not every Makita job site radio is DAB. The Makita MR002GZ is listed with FM and AM frequency ranges only, so it will not pick up DAB stations. If you want DAB+ from Makita, choose the DMR115 or DMR301 instead.

The Site Radios to Look At

1. DeWalt DCR029

Best for DeWalt users

DAB+, FM and AM, Bluetooth, 30W speakers with a customisable equaliser, and power from DeWalt batteries from 12V to 54V or mains. Listed at 300 x 220 x 170mm.

Check price on Amazon

2. Makita DMR115

Best Makita DAB+ radio

DAB and DAB+ with Bluetooth, My EQ mode for treble, mid and bass, dual power from AC or Makita batteries, and elastomer bumpers with an aluminium die-cast guard. Sold body only.

Check price on Amazon

3. Makita DMR301

Best Makita radio that charges batteries

DAB and DAB+ with Bluetooth, power from Makita CXT or LXT batteries or mains, a battery charging function, two USB ports for phones and an AUX input. Sold without batteries or charger.

Check price on Amazon

Which Should You Buy?

  • DeWalt batteries: DCR029.
  • Makita 18V batteries and you want DAB+: DMR115.
  • Makita batteries and you want the radio to charge them: DMR301.
  • Other brands, or no battery platform: see our best site radios guide for Milwaukee, Bosch, Ryobi and a USB-rechargeable option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is DeWalt or Makita better for a site radio?

Neither is better for everyone. The right one is the radio that runs on the batteries you already own. DeWalt’s DCR029 takes DeWalt packs from 12V to 54V, while Makita’s DMR115 and DMR301 run on Makita batteries.

Does the Makita MR002GZ have DAB?

No. The MR002GZ is listed with FM and AM frequency ranges only. For DAB+ from Makita, choose the DMR115 or DMR301.

Can a site radio charge my tool batteries?

Some can. Makita lists a battery charging function on the DMR301. Check the listing, as most site radios only run from batteries rather than charging them.

Do these radios come with batteries?

The Makita radios here are sold without batteries or chargers, and the DeWalt DCR029 is a bare unit, so they are best value if you already own the batteries.

Related Guides

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 October 2026.

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