Makita 7.2V Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill Kit Review

April 5, 2024
0 comment
Arthur Cooper

The Makita 7.2V Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill Kit with Auto-Stop Clutch is a compact and versatile tool suitable for various drilling and driving tasks. Here’s a comprehensive review of its features, performance, and practical tips for use and maintenance.

An image of Makita 7.2V Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill Kit

Check price on Amazon

Specifications

Brand	Makita
Voltage	7.2V
Battery Type	Lithium-Ion
Chuck Size	1/4″ Hex
Clutch Settings	21 + Drill Mode
Weight	2.1 pounds
Torque	44 in.lbs
No Load Speed	0-200 / 0-650 RPM

Key Features of Makita 7.2V Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill Kit

Makita 7.2V Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill on white background.

Auto-Stop Clutch for precise screw driving: The driver-drill kit is equipped with a 21-clutch setting Auto-Stop Clutch that shuts off the tool when the clutch disengages, ensuring precise screw driving and preventing overdriving of the fastener.
Lightweight and ergonomic design for reduced operator fatigue: With a weight of just 1.2 lbs and an ergonomic shape, this driver-drill kit is designed to reduce operator fatigue, making it comfortable to use for extended periods.
Built-in LED light for illuminated work area: The inclusion of a built-in LED light operated by a separate switch provides illumination for more accurate work, especially in dimly lit workspaces.
Soft-grip handle for increased comfort: The driver-drill kit features a soft-grip handle that provides increased comfort during use, enhancing the user experience.
Variable speed (0-650 RPM) for a wide range of drilling and driving applications: The variable speed control enables smooth acceleration and control during operation, making it suitable for a wide range of drilling and driving applications.

Design and Build Quality

Makita 7.2V Cordless Driver-Drill on gridded mat

The Makita 7.2V Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill Kit is designed with a tough and small build, making it simple to use in small areas where space is limited. Its lightweight construction and comfortable handle make it easy to use for a long time without feeling tired or uncomfortable, allowing users to work on their projects without unnecessary strain. The tool’s compact design also ensures that it can be easily maneuvered and operated in confined spaces, offering convenience and ease of use, particularly in projects that require precision and accuracy.

Performance

The 7.2V lithium-ion battery of the Makita 7.2V Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill Kit delivers steady and reliable power, ensuring that the drill maintains consistent performance throughout its use. This means that you can use the drill for a long time without it losing its power.

Additionally, the variable speed control feature allows you to adjust the speed of the drill, ensuring precise and accurate drilling and driving for different materials and tasks. This makes the drill versatile and suitable for various applications, as it can be adjusted to work well with different materials and tasks, providing you with the flexibility you need.

Makita cordless driver-drill with screws and wood on a textured mat.

Moreover, the auto-stop clutch is a key feature that prevents overdriving and stripping of screws, contributing to the overall precision and performance of the drill. This means that you can use the drill with confidence, knowing that it will stop automatically to prevent any damage to the screws or work surface, enhancing the accuracy and quality of your work.

These combined features of the Makita 7.2V Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill Kit ensure that it offers consistent power, precision, and performance for a wide range of drilling and driving tasks, making it a reliable tool for various applications.

Ease of Use and Maneuverability

Hand holding a Makita 7.2V Driver-Drill with case in the background.

The Makita 7.2V Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill Kit is designed to be really easy to use and move around with. It’s really light and comfortable to hold, and the built-in LED light makes it easy to see and work with, even in dark or small spaces. The variable speed trigger also gives you smooth control over how fast the drill goes, making it even easier to use for different tasks.

Makita 7.2V Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill Kit Pros and Cons

Pros

Compact and lightweight design
Auto-Stop Clutch for precision
Ergonomic and comfortable grip
Quick 50-minute battery charge time
Built-in LED light for enhanced visibility

Cons

Limited to light-duty applications due to its 7.2V power
Not suitable for heavy-duty drilling or driving tasks

Comparative Analysis of the Makita 7.2V Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill Kit

Bosch PS21-2A 12V Max 2-Speed Pocket Driver

Features	Makita DF012DSE 7.2V	Bosch PS21-2A 12V Max	Milwaukee 2401-22 M12
Model	DF012DSE	PS21-2A	2401-22
Voltage	7.2V	12V Max	12V
Battery Type	Lithium-Ion	Lithium-Ion	Lithium-Ion
Speed	0-200 / 0-650 RPM	0-350 RPM / 0-1,300 RPM	0-500 RPM
Chuck Size	1/4 inch hex	1/4 inch hex	1/4 inch hex
Weight	1.2 lbs	1.8 lbs	2 lbs
Key Features	Auto-Stop Clutch, Dual Speed, LED Light	Compact design, 2-speed gearbox, 20+1 clutch settings, Built-in LED light	Quick-change chuck, LED light, Battery fuel gauge
Pros	Lightweight, Precise control, Versatile	Lightweight, High torque, Precise speed control, Versatile	Powerful for its size, Versatile, Easy to use
Cons	Limited torque for heavy-duty tasks	Limited battery life compared to larger models, Not suitable for heavy-duty drilling tasks	Limited speed range, Battery life varies
Suitable for	Precision driving and drilling tasks, Tight spaces	Precision driving and drilling tasks, Tight spaces, DIY projects	General screwdriving tasks, Tight spaces, Precision work

Summary:

The Makita 7.2V Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill Kit is a lightweight and precise tool suitable for precision driving and drilling tasks in tight spaces. Its key features include an auto-stop clutch, dual-speed capability, and an LED light. However, it may have limited torque for heavy-duty tasks.

The Bosch PS21-2A 12V Max is a compact and versatile tool with a 2-speed gearbox and 20+1 clutch settings. It is ideal for precision driving and drilling tasks and DIY projects in tight spaces. However, its battery life may be limited compared to larger models.

The Milwaukee 2401-22 M12 is a powerful tool for its size, with a quick-change chuck and an LED light. It is suitable for general screwdriving tasks and precision work in tight spaces. However, its speed range and battery life may be limited for some users.

Maintenance

Maintaining and caring for your Makita 7.2V Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill Kit is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Here are some tips to keep your tool in top condition:

Makita Cordless Driver-Drill, battery, charger, and branded case on white.

1. Keep it Clean:

Regularly wipe the drill with a clean, dry cloth to remove dust and debris.
Use a soft brush to clean the vents and prevent overheating.

2. Check for Wear:

Inspect the drill and its accessories for signs of wear or damage.
Replace any worn or damaged parts promptly to avoid further issues.

3. Battery Care:

Charge the battery fully before first use and whenever it is depleted.
Avoid leaving the battery in the charger for extended periods.
Store the battery in a cool, dry place when not in use.

4. Lubrication:

Apply a small amount of lightweight machine oil to the chuck occasionally to keep it operating smoothly.

5. Storage:

Store the drill in a dry, secure place when not in use.
Remove the battery from the drill for long-term storage.

6. Avoid Abuse:

Do not use the drill for applications beyond its intended purpose.
Avoid dropping or subjecting the drill to strong impacts.

7. Regular Inspection:

Periodically check the drill for loose screws or parts and tighten them as necessary.
Ensure that the chuck is securely fastened before use.

8. Keep the Charger Clean:

Ensure that the charging contacts on the battery and charger are clean and free from debris.
Wipe the charger with a dry cloth occasionally to keep it clean.

Practical Tips for Use

To get the most out of your Makita 7.2V Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill Kit, consider the following practical tips:

Choose the Right Bit: Select the appropriate bit for the material you’re working with and the type of screw or hole you’re making.
Adjust the Clutch Setting: Use the correct clutch setting for the task. Lower settings are ideal for driving small screws, while higher settings are better for larger screws or drilling.
Start Slowly: Begin drilling or driving at a slow speed to ensure control and accuracy, then gradually increase the speed as needed.
Use Even Pressure: Apply steady pressure when drilling or driving, but avoid pushing too hard, as this can cause the bit to slip or the motor to stall.
Pre-drill Holes: For tougher materials or larger screws, pre-drill a pilot hole to make driving easier and prevent splitting.
Keep the Drill Straight: Ensure the drill is perpendicular to the surface to avoid angled holes or screws.
Utilize the LED Light: Use the built-in LED light to illuminate the work area, especially in dimly lit spaces.
Monitor Battery Life: Keep an eye on the battery indicator and have a spare battery charged and ready to avoid interruptions.
Take Breaks: For prolonged use, take breaks to prevent overheating the drill and to rest your hand.
Store Properly: After use, remove the bit and battery, and store the drill in a dry, secure place.

Conclusion

The Makita 7.2V Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver-Drill Kit stands out as a compact and versatile tool suitable for precision driving and drilling tasks in tight spaces. Its lightweight design, auto-stop clutch, and dual-speed capability make it a valuable addition to any toolbox. While it may not be suited for heavy-duty tasks, its precision and ease of use make it ideal for DIY projects and light-duty applications.