DeWalt vs Makita Rotary Tools - Which one for general DIY?

Hey everyone, looking to buy my first rotary tool for some home projects - mostly wood carving, polishing, and maybe some light metal work. I've narrowed it down to DeWalt and Makita since they're both available at my local store. Anyone have experience with both? Leaning toward cordless for convenience. Thanks!

DeWalt all the way, no question. I've been using their 20V Max XR rotary tool for 2 years on job sites and it's a beast. The brushless motor holds up to daily abuse, battery life is insane, and it just feels solid in your hand. Makita might be okay for light stuff, but if you want something that'll last, go yellow. Trust me, once you go DeWalt you never go back!

Bob's not wrong about DeWalt being tough, but for weekend projects like you're describing, Makita's 18V LXT is perfect. I've had mine for about a year - used it to restore an old toolbox (sanding/polishing), trim some PVC pipe, and even detail some small engine parts. It's lighter than the DeWalt, which matters when you're using it for an hour straight. Plus the kit comes with a nice case and decent accessories. For DIY, you don't need industrial-grade.

Guys, have you checked the prices lately? The DeWalt kit is like $50 more than Makita for basically the same specs. I went with a refurbished Ryobi and saved enough to buy like 20 extra bits. Unless you're using it every day, that brand premium is hard to justify. But if you're set on those two, Makita often has better holiday sales. Just saying.

Tim, you get what you pay for! That $50 difference is the warranty and durability. My DeWalt survived a 6-foot drop onto concrete last month and still works perfect. Try that with a budget brand. OP - if you're doing any metal work, DeWalt's variable speed control is smoother at low RPMs. Makita tends to cog a bit when you're trying to do delicate stuff.