Metabo HPT DS18DEX
Score: 85/100
SKIL Flip Drill
Score: 75/100Rankings
The Metabo HPT DS18DEX is a compact, high-torque brushless driver drill designed for tight spaces and general construction tasks. It features Reactive Force Control for safety and MultiVolt compatibility for flexible power options. While it offers excellent torque and compactness, it lacks hammer drilling capabilities and the included batteries have limited capacity.
The SKIL Compact Brushless Flip Drill Driver is a dual-voltage (12V/20V) cordless tool featuring a unique double collet flip head that allows users to switch between two hex-shank bits with a simple 180-degree twist. Designed as a lightweight, space-saving alternative to traditional drills, it combines drilling and driving functionality with a brushless motor and electronic torque control. It is best suited for users prioritizing speed and convenience in repetitive tasks.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
18 Vbest | 12 V | |
70 N·mbest | 39.5 N·m | |
2 Ahbest | 2 Ahbest | |
0.5 inbest | 0.25 in | |
2best | 1 | |
| ↓ lower better | 1.18 kg | 0.92 kgbest |
| ↓ lower better | 45 minbest | — |
2,000 RPMbest | 1,700 RPM |
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| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Performance(4) | ||
Voltage (V) | 18 V | 12/20 V |
Max Torque (N·m) | 70 N·m | 39.5 N·m |
No-Load Speed (RPM) | 2000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Clutch Settings | 23 | 10 |
Value & Support(2) | ||
Warranty Length (years) | Lifetime years | Unknown years |
Included Accessories | 2 | 7 |
Battery & Runtime(3) | ||
Number of Batteries | 2 | 1 |
Charging Time (min) | 45 min | Unknown min |
Battery Chemistry | Lithium-Ion | Lithium-ion |
Design & Ergonomics(2) | ||
Chuck Size (in) | 0.5 in | 0.25 in |
Tool Weight (kg) | 1.18 kg | 0.92 kg |
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.
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.
Professional reviewers highlight the SKIL flip drill's innovative double collet design as a key differentiator that saves time during repetitive tasks. While the brushless motor and two-speed transmission receive praise for power and versatility, experts emphasize that the tool functions more as a high-end cordless screwdriver than a traditional drill due to its hex-only chuck.
Everyday users appreciate the time-saving convenience of the flip design, which eliminates the need to manually change bits between drilling pilot holes and driving screws. The compact, lightweight build is frequently praised for reducing fatigue and improving access in tight spaces. However, a recurring theme in feedback is frustration with the hex-only limitation.
“it definitely has plenty of power to drill and drive everything I've tried it on”
“The double collet feature is something else”
