Metabo HPT DS18DEX
Score: 88/100
SKIL 12V Compact Drill
Score: 85/100Rankings
The Metabo HPT 18V MultiVolt 1/2" Cordless Brushless Driver Drill Kit (DS18DEXM) is a compact, high-torque tool designed for driving screws and drilling in wood and metal. It features a brushless motor, Reactive Force Control for anti-kickback safety, and compatibility with both 18V and 36V MultiVolt batteries for extended runtime. Ideal for DIYers and light professionals needing a compact drill for tight spaces.
The Skil DL6290A-11 is a compact 12V brushless drill driver designed for tight spaces, featuring a 6.06-inch body length and 1.9 lbs weight. It delivers 350 in-lbs of torque and includes a versatile 2.0Ah battery with USB-C two-way charging capabilities. Best suited for DIY homeowners and professionals needing ultra-compact tools for light-to-medium tasks.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
18 Vbest | 12 V | |
620 Nmbest | 39.4 Nm | |
2 Ahbest | 2 Ahbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 1.18 kg | 0.86 kgbest |
23 positionsbest | 18 positions | |
2 countbest | 1 count | |
2,000 RPMbest | 1,700 RPM | |
1 count | 5 countbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Voltage(1) | ||
Voltage (V) | 18 V | 12 V |
Controls & Features(1) | ||
Clutch Settings (positions) | 23 positions | 18 positions |
Support & Warranty(1) | ||
Warranty Duration (months) | Lifetime months | 60 months |
Design & Compatibility(2) | ||
Chuck Size | 1/2 | 0.5 |
Tool Weight (kg) | 1.18 kg | 0.86 kg |
Accessories & Extras(2) | ||
Total Piece Count (count) | 1 count | 5 count |
Includes Carrying Case | true | false |
Performance & Speed(2) | ||
Maximum Torque (Nm) | 620 Nm | 39.4 Nm |
Maximum Speed (RPM) (RPM) | 2000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Battery & Runtime(3) | ||
Number of Batteries (count) | 2 count | 1 count |
Charging Time (min) | 45 min | null min |
Battery Chemistry | Lithium-Ion | Lithium-ion |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers highlight the drill's class-leading power and compactness, noting it is 10% faster with the highest max torque in its class at 620 in-lbs. It is considered ideal for tight spaces and backed by a lifetime warranty. While praised as a refined mid-tier option suitable for most jobs, it is noted as not being as powerful as 36V models.
Everyday users rate the product highly, praising its torque for screws and bolts, compactness, and value with the lifetime warranty. Common praise includes easy bit changes and the utility of the LED light for dark areas. Recurring complaints are minimal but align with professional notes, with some users needing larger batteries for extended use and noting minor switch issues.
Professional reviewers highlight the Skil DL6290A-11 as an excellent choice for tight spaces due to its compact 6.06-inch length and lightweight 1.9 lbs build. They note that while the performance specs are strong for a 12V tool, they are unchanged from the previous generation.
Everyday consumer feedback generally infers praise for the tool's compact size and the unique convenience of the USB-C battery for charging devices. Users appreciate the value of the kit format.
