DeWalt vs Makita rotary tools: which one do you swear by?

I'm in the market for a new rotary tool and I'm stuck between the DeWalt DWE6300 and the Makita RT0701C. I mainly do light carving and some routing on cabinets. Price is similar but I've heard both have their quirks. What's your experience?

I've used both on job sites. DeWalt has a bit more torque at low speeds, great for detail work. Makita is smoother but louder. For cabinet work, I'd say go DeWalt unless you need variable speed with the dial, Makita's dial is more precise. Also check the baseplates, DeWalt comes with a nice clear one.

Back when I was framing, we used Makita exclusively. Them things took a beating and never quit. I've got a RT0701C in my shop now, still runs like new after 10 years. DeWalt's good but I see more Makitas in pro shops. If you want longevity, Makita. If you want out-of-the-box power, DeWalt.

Thanks guys! I'm leaning towards Makita now. One more thing - do you use the plunge base or just the fixed? I do a lot of freehand work.

Plunge base is nice for mortises but if you're mostly freehand, fixed is fine. I'd save the cash and get a good set of bits instead. Cheap bits ruin a good tool.