DeWalt vs Makita: Which drill for a serious DIYer?

Alright guys, I'm finally retiring my old corded Black & Decker and stepping into the big leagues. I'm looking at either the DeWalt DCD791 or the Makita XPH12. Both seem highly rated, but I'm torn. I mostly do home projects, deck building, that sort of thing. Which one has better ergonomics and battery life? I've got a small shop and want something that'll last. Also, are the chucks on the newer models any good? I've heard mixed things. Any input from you seasoned pros would be great!

I've used both extensively in my woodworking hobby. The Makita XPH12 is lighter and more compact, which is great for overhead work or tight spaces. The DeWalt has a bit more torque in my experience, but it's also heavier. If you're doing a lot of deck building, the extra power might be worth it. But for general DIY, Makita's ergonomics are hard to beat. One thing: Makita's 18V batteries are compatible across their whole line, which is a plus if you plan to expand. DeWalt's FlexVolt is also a system, but pricier. What's your budget?

As a retired carpenter who's used both on job sites for decades, I'll say this: DeWalt drills are workhorses, but Makita has better finesse. The chuck on the DeWalt can be a bit finicky after heavy use, while Makita's stays smooth. However, DeWalt's customer service is top-notch if something goes wrong. If you're mostly DIY, either will serve you well. But if you want longevity, go with Makita. I've had my Makita for 10 years and it's still going strong. Just my two cents.

I collect tools and have both. The DeWalt DCD791 is a beast for drilling into masonry and heavy lumber, but it's not as refined. The Makita XPH12 is my go-to for precision work. If you're doing a mix, I'd lean Makita. Also, consider the battery platform you want to invest in. I started with DeWalt and now have a ton of their tools, so switching would be costly. But if you're just starting, Makita has a wider range of innovative tools. Either way, you can't go wrong. Let us know what you pick!