DeWalt Atomic Combo Kit Targets the Cordless Subcompact Class
When I first came across the DeWalt Atomic cordless tools, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect in terms of performance. While they are compact and functionally simple, their true capabilities remained a mystery. However, if they prove to perform well, they could serve as an excellent entry point into DeWalt’s powerful 20V Max platform. To put them to the test, I’ve been using the DeWalt Atomic drill and impact driver combo kit.
Advantages
- Lightweight and compact
- Surprisingly powerful
- More affordable compared to other DeWalt 20V Max tools
Shortcoming
- Limited functionality
Setting Expectations with the DeWalt Atomic Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit
Although these tools are technically compact 18V models, they fall into the category of sub-compact. Makita has been leading the way in pioneering 12V sizes and power tools on an 18V platform, eliminating the need for multiple battery systems to achieve compactness.
Following Makita’s lead, DeWalt introduced the Atomic line. The DeWalt Atomic Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit includes the two most essential cordless tools with the added advantage of brushless motors.
While they may lack some advanced features, they also come at a more affordable price point. Let’s explore further.
Be sure to check out our article on the best DeWalt drill bits
Check out our best cordless drills page for more details on our testing methodology.
Speed
With a 3/4″ auger bit, the DeWalt DCD708 maintained an average speed of 1342 RPM. This accounts for 81% of the 1653 RPM no-load speed we tested (as listed in the specifications).
This speed falls short of the top compact model, DeWalt’s DCD797. However, when compared to its subcompact rivals, Makita’s XFD11 only reached 1089 RPM in the same test, which is 68% of its no-load speed.
In the realm of 12V tools, only the Skil 12V brushless model comes close, but it falls behind by nearly 100 RPM.
When it comes to the 1-1/2″ self-feed drill, we switched to low speed. The DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Drill Driver maintained a steady 338 RPM at 78% efficiency. It lags slightly behind the top models, but surpasses Makita’s subcompact drill by about 30 RPM.
Unfortunately, we did not conduct a 12V drill test for this particular experiment.
Overall, the DeWalt Atomic Drill showcases impressive speed compared to both its subcompact and 12V competitors.
Torque
It’s common for manufacturers to prioritize either speed or power, resulting in drills that excel in one aspect but lack in the other.
During our soft-torque test, the DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Drill Driver achieved an average of 189.2 in-lbs. Although it falls over 100 inch-pounds short of the top-performing Metabo HPT DSDBFL2, it outperforms Makita’s XFD11 (98.0 inch-pounds) by a significant margin.
The top 12V model can only handle up to 116 in-lbs of torque, clearly placing the Atomic above its capabilities.
DeWalt has managed to strike a balance between speed and torque, exceeding the expectations of a 12V drill while outperforming its competition from Makita.
Weight
At just 3.18 pounds with a 1.3 Ah battery, the DeWalt DCD708 is lighter than most compact 18V models. However, Makita has managed to bring their drill weight down to under 3 pounds.
The only 12V drill that weighs more than the DeWalt Atomic is the Milwaukee M12 Fuel model, and even then, the difference is minimal (3.21 lbs).
Footprint
In terms of footprint, DeWalt falls slightly behind Makita but not by much. It is only 0.1 inches taller and 0.1 inches longer, giving it a significant advantage over other compact 18V models.
However, none of the 12V models reach this height, although the DeWalt Atomic’s length is shorter than most. Metabo’s new 12V drill matches its length, while the Makita FD07 is slightly smaller.
The Bottom Line
If you’re in the market for an 18V/20V Max drill that can replace the need for a separate 12V system, the DeWalt Atomic Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit is an ideal solution. It reduces the overall footprint and weight while delivering better performance than its 12V counterparts. It’s worth noting that this is a basic 2-speed model.
For light concrete drilling, consider the DCD709 Hammer Drill.
DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Cordless Drill Driver
- DCD708B (bare metal): $119
- DCD708C1 (1 battery kit)
- DCD708C2 (2 battery kit): $159
Overall 18V Compact Drill Driver Rating
- Weight: 4.6
- Footprint: 5.0
- Feature Set: 3.6
- Speed: 3.6
- Torque: 3.0
- Overall: 4.0 out of 5.0
Specification
- Model: DEWALT DCD708B
- Maximum power: 340 UWO
- Maximum speed: 0-450/0-1650 rpm
- Chuck Size: 1/2″
- Number of speeds: 2
- Height: 7.9″
- Length: 6.3″
- Weight: 2.4 lbs (3.1 lbs with battery)
- Warranty: 3-year limited
DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Impact Driver
Check out our impact driver test methodology on our Best Cordless Impact Driver home page.
Speed
The DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Impact Driver performed admirably at 464 RPM during our ledger screw test. The top speed belongs to Makita’s XDT16, which reached 651 RPM. Although the DeWalt DCF809 trails by nearly 200 RPM, this compact model leaves 11 other models in the dust.
12V impact drivers are unable to achieve such speeds.
Torque
During our tests, the DeWalt Atomic reached a tightening torque of 2206 in-lbs, amounting to 83% of what Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel Gen 3 models can achieve. More importantly, it is very close to the capabilities of DeWalt’s premium DCF887 (2237 in-lbs).
In contrast, none of the 12V models come close to reaching 1000 inch-pounds of torque.
When it comes to breakaway torque, the DeWalt Atomic consistently delivered 3000 inch-pounds (250 foot-pounds). This matches the performance of the DCF887 and stands on par with five other models.
While this falls short of Ridgid’s Octane model, which shatters the 4800 in-lbs mark, it shouldn’t be a major concern for most users. For a comparison between 12V models, their torque levels remain well below 2000 in-lbs.
*Our torque values do not reflect the manufacturer’s tested specifications. Find out why in our testing methodology section.
Weight
Keeping the weight under 3 pounds with the battery is no easy feat, but a few models, including Mac Tool’s MCF886 (another Stanley Black & Decker brand), have managed to achieve it.
DeWalt joins the pack with a bare-tool weight of 2.2 pounds and a total weight of 2.9 pounds with its 1.3 Ah battery.
As for the 12V group, their weights remain relatively light.
Footprint
Head length plays a crucial role in impact drivers, and the DeWalt Atomic excels in this area with a measurement of just 5.1 inches. However, Makita and Milwaukee have an even smaller 1/2 inch category.
Interestingly, almost every standard 12V impact driver has a longer head.
With a height of 7.9 inches, the DCF809 falls into the mid-range when compared to other models. Although there are shorter options available, the DeWalt Atomic’s height is reasonable, ensuring a comfortable grip for your hand. As for the 12V models, they are generally shorter.
The Bottom Line
The DeWalt DCF809 is best regarded as a value-focused, professional-grade impact driver rather than a direct replacement for 12V models. Its performance falls within the mid-range when compared to standard 18V models in terms of size and features, aligning it closely with the feature-rich DCF887.
DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Impact Driver
- DCF809B (bare metal): $119
- DCF809C1 (1 battery pack): $149
- DCF809C2 (2 battery kit): $129 (promo price)
18V Impact Driver Rating
- Size: 94
- Feature Set: 75
- Speed: 70
- Torque: 73
- Noise level: 74
- Value: 97
- Overall: 79.3
Specification
- Model: DEWALT DCF809B
- IPM: 3,200
- Maximum Torque: 1,700 in-lbs
- Maximum speed: 2,800 RPM
- Length: 5.1″
- Weight: 2.2 lbs bare, 2.9 lbs with battery
- Warranty: 3-year limited
Price
The DeWalt Atomic drill and impact driver combo kits offer various options, but the most notable choice is the kit itself. For $229, you can obtain two 1.3 Ah batteries along with a range of compatible tools. Here are some other options:
DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Cordless Drill Driver
- DCD708B (bare metal): $119
- DCD708C1 (1 battery kit)
- DCD708C2 (2 battery kit): $159
DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Impact Driver
- DCF809B (bare metal): $119
- DCF809C1 (1 battery pack): $149
- DCF809C2 (2 battery kit): $129 (promo price)
Final Thoughts on the DeWalt Atomic Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit
The DeWalt Atomic Drill and Impact Driver Kit is an intriguing combo, offering compactness and lightness while utilizing an 18V/20V Max battery platform.
In terms of performance and size, this drill falls between the top 12V models and DeWalt’s excellent 20V Max compact hammer drill. On the other hand, the impact driver aligns more with the capabilities of standard Pro models while maintaining a compact footprint.
Apart from the brushless motor, 2-speed options on the drill, and a 3-LED light ring on the impact driver, there aren’t many standout features.
If you’re considering replacing a 12V tool to consolidate onto a single battery platform, this kit is an ideal choice.
Price is also a defining factor. For $179, you can access a battery system that is compatible with a variety of tools.
The only caveat is that the kit comes with a 1.3 Ah battery, which may be insufficient for professionals. However, for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, it provides more than enough power for light-duty projects.
For more information on the DeWalt Atomic series, please visit their official website.