DeWalt vs Makita Cordless Drills - Which one for serious home projects?

Hey everyone, I'm finally upgrading my old corded drill and looking at cordless options. I've narrowed it down to DeWalt's 20V Max XR and Makita's 18V LXT series. I do weekend projects like building shelves, deck repairs, and occasional furniture assembly. Budget is around $200-300 for a kit. Which brand would you recommend for reliability and battery life? I keep hearing DeWalt is tougher but Makita is smoother. Thoughts?

As a restoration guy who uses drills daily on delicate antique woodwork, I swear by Makita. Their brushless motors run quieter with less vibration - crucial when you're driving screws into 100-year-old oak without splitting it. The LXT batteries last me through full 8-hour days restoring furniture. DeWalt feels clunkier to me, though they're fine for rougher work. If you want precision and longevity, go Makita.

I've owned both! Started with a DeWalt kit 3 years ago when I built my shed. It survived being dropped off a ladder (oops) and still works. Recently got a Makita impact driver as a gift - it's noticeably lighter and the quick-charge battery is awesome. For your projects, either will work great. Check Home Depot's holiday sales - last Black Friday I saw DeWalt kits with 2 batteries for $250. Pro tip: whichever you choose, get the brushless model!

DEWALT ALL THE WAY. My dad was a contractor and only used DeWalt, so I grew up with yellow tools. I've had my 20V drill for 5 years now - used it to build a treehouse, install kitchen cabinets, even mix thinset for tile. The batteries still hold charge like new. Makita might be fine, but DeWalt is proven tough. Their warranty service is excellent too (had a charger replaced no questions asked). Stick with the brand professionals trust.