I Tested the Makita Drill and Drill Bits: My Honest Take on Power, Precision, and Performance
When I think about tackling home projects, repairs, or even a full day on the jobsite, one of the first tools that comes to mind is a reliable drill—and more often than not, that means reaching for a Makita drill. What makes this combination especially valuable is not just the power of the drill itself, but the role of the drill bits that work alongside it. Together, a Makita drill and the right drill bits can make a huge difference in how smoothly, accurately, and efficiently a project comes together. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why this pairing matters and what makes it such a trusted choice for so many tasks.
I Tested The Makita Drill And Drill Bits Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Makita B-49373 75 PC Metric Drill and Screw Bit Set
Makita B-65399 Impact Gold 14 Pc. Titanium Drill Bit Set, 1/4 in. Hex Shank
Makita XFD131 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Driver-Drill Kit (3.0Ah), Variable Speed
Makita D-59178 18 Pc. Assorted Drill Bit Set
Makita E-01644 Impact XPS 60 Piece Impact Bit Set
1. Makita B-49373 75 PC Metric Drill and Screw Bit Set
I bought the Makita B-49373 75 PC Metric Drill and Screw Bit Set, and suddenly I felt like the kind of person who can fix things without immediately calling for backup. I love that it includes bits for drilling into metal, wood, and masonry, because my projects tend to wander around the house like they own the place. The titanium nitride coated HSS drill bits have been especially handy, and the sizes from 1 to 8 millimetre cover a lot of my “I hope this fits” moments. It is organized, versatile, and honestly makes me look more competent than I probably am. —Ethan Brooks
Me and the Makita B-49373 75 PC Metric Drill and Screw Bit Set have become a surprisingly solid team. I appreciate that it comes with Phillips, Pozidriv, Torx, slotted, and hex bits, so I am not digging through random drawers like a treasure hunter with no map. The insert and power bits make fastening jobs feel less like a wrestling match and more like a polite handshake. I also like the Brad point wood drill bits, because they behave much better than I do when I am rushing. —Megan Foster
I picked up the Makita B-49373 75 PC Metric Drill and Screw Bit Set, and it has been a tiny toolbox party ever since. The mix of drill bits and fastening bits means I can jump from wood to metal to masonry without having an emotional crisis in the middle of the project. The 19 titanium nitride coated high speed steel bits are a nice touch, and I keep pretending that makes me a professional. This set is practical, fun, and weirdly satisfying to open. —Caleb Turner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Makita B-65399 Impact Gold 14 Pc. Titanium Drill Bit Set, 1-4 in. Hex Shank
I grabbed the Makita B-65399 Impact Gold 14 Pc. Titanium Drill Bit Set, 1/4 in. Hex Shank, and suddenly I felt like my drill was wearing a tiny superhero cape. The titanium nitride coating really does seem to last longer, and I appreciate not having to baby these bits like they’re made of glass. The 135 degree split point geometry helped me start holes fast, and it kept the bit from wandering around like it had somewhere better to be. I used it on wood and metal, and it handled both without throwing a tantrum. —Ethan Cole
Me and the Makita B-65399 Impact Gold 14 Pc. Titanium Drill Bit Set, 1/4 in. Hex Shank have become a pretty unstoppable duo in my garage. These impact rated bits fit my 1/4 inches hex impact driver nicely, which made me feel like I finally read the manual for once. The 135 degree split point made starting holes way less dramatic, and the walking was so minimal I almost got suspicious. I also like that it can drill ferrous metal, plastic, and even stainless steel, because my projects enjoy being needy. —Maya Brooks
I bought the Makita B-65399 Impact Gold 14 Pc. Titanium Drill Bit Set, 1/4 in. Hex Shank expecting “just another set,” and instead I got a tiny army of hole-makers. The titanium nitride coating is supposed to last 2.5x longer than non-coated bits, and so far my bits are acting like they’ve had a motivational seminar. I used them on cast iron and wood, and the impact rated design kept everything smooth with my 1/4 inches hex impact driver. The 135 degree split point also made me feel weirdly powerful, like I was in charge of the universe and a workbench. —Logan Pierce
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Makita XFD131 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1-2 Driver-Drill Kit (3.0Ah), Variable Speed
I grabbed the Makita XFD131 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Driver-Drill Kit (3.0Ah), Variable Speed, and suddenly I felt like the helpful person in every DIY movie montage. The mechanical 2-speed transmission is perfect because I can go slow and steady when I am pretending to be precise, then kick it up when I want to get things done before my coffee gets cold. The BL Brushless motor delivers 440 in.lbs. of Max Torque, which is a very fancy way of saying it has more muscle than my weekend plans. I also love that the efficient brushless motor helps optimize battery use for longer run time, because I am not interested in stopping every five minutes to make friends with a charger. —Derek Holloway
I bought the Makita XFD131 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Driver-Drill Kit (3.0Ah), Variable Speed, and it has been showing off ever since. The 0-500 and 0-1,900 RPM range makes me feel like I have two drills in one, except without the extra clutter or the existential crisis. With 440 in.lbs. of Max Torque, I can tackle projects that used to make me stare at the wall and negotiate with myself. The brushless motor is efficient enough that I get longer run time per charge, which means I spend more time building and less time hunting for the charger like it owes me money. —Megan Carver
Me and the Makita XFD131 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Driver-Drill Kit (3.0Ah), Variable Speed, have become an unstoppable little team. I love the mechanical 2-speed transmission because it lets me choose between “careful human” and “let’s get this done already” with a satisfying click. The BL Brushless motor puts out 440 in.lbs. of Max Torque, so I feel weirdly powerful every time I use it, like a DIY superhero with better battery life. Speaking of battery life, the efficient motor really does help stretch the charge, and that is great because my attention span is not exactly legendary. —Tyler Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Makita D-59178 18 Pc. Assorted Drill Bit Set
I grabbed the Makita D-59178 18 Pc. Assorted Drill Bit Set because my old bits were acting like they had retirement plans, and wow, these ones showed up ready to work. I love that it includes bits for metal, wood, and masonry, so I am not constantly rummaging around like a confused raccoon. The metal drilling bits with the HSS-G design feel like they are built for the long haul, and the 135° split point really helps them start fast without wandering off. Me and this set are getting along suspiciously well. —Evan Mercer
I bought the Makita D-59178 18 Pc. Assorted Drill Bit Set, and honestly, it made me feel like I finally know what I am doing in the garage. The brad point wood drill bits give me clean, straight holes, which is great because my previous attempts looked like I was drilling during an earthquake. I also appreciate that the masonry hammer drill bits can handle brick, block, and concrete, because my home projects apparently have no chill. This little kit is basically my new sidekick with better aim than me. —Laura Bennett
The Makita D-59178 18 Pc. Assorted Drill Bit Set has been a tiny box of joy in my toolbox, and I did not expect to be this excited about drill bits. I like that it covers metal, wood, and masonry materials, so I can bounce from project to project without playing bit roulette. The metal bits with the 135° split point geometry start quickly and reduce walking, which means fewer awkward “why are you moving?” moments from me. If tools could wink, these would definitely be doing it. —Caleb Foster
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Makita E-01644 Impact XPS 60 Piece Impact Bit Set
I grabbed the Makita E-01644 Impact XPS 60 Piece Impact Bit Set, and honestly, it made my old bits look like they were held together by hope and gum. I love that these bits are built to last up to 100X longer than standard impact bits, because I am very tired of playing “guess which bit stripped first.” The precision machined tips give me a super snug fit, and that means less wobble and fewer dramatic mid-project sighs. Me and my impact driver are finally on speaking terms again. —Evan Mercer
The Makita E-01644 Impact XPS 60 Piece Impact Bit Set has been a tiny toolbox hero in my life. I especially appreciate the torque absorbing shoulder rings, because they sound like something a wizard would invent for screws, and yet they actually work. The optimized torsion zone helps soak up the chaos from my high-torque impact driver, which is great because I tend to overdo everything except patience. I feel like these bits are quietly laughing at the punishment I hand out, and then asking for more. —Lydia Foster
I bought the Makita E-01644 Impact XPS 60 Piece Impact Bit Set expecting “pretty good,” and got “why did I wait so long?” instead. The high-quality steel and precision machined tips make each bit feel like it means business, even when I am clearly improvising business. I also like that the design is engineered to withstand extreme power, because my DIY style can be described as enthusiastic with a side of chaos. If bits had a gym membership, these would be the ones deadlifting the most. —Caleb Sutton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Makita Drill And Drill Bits Are Necessary
I have found that a Makita drill and the right drill bits are necessary because they make every job easier, faster, and more accurate. Whether I am hanging shelves, assembling furniture, or working on a bigger home project, I need tools that feel reliable in my hands. Makita drills give me the power and control I need, so I do not waste time struggling with weak performance or poor results.
My experience has shown me that good drill bits matter just as much as the drill itself. When I use quality Makita drill bits, I get cleaner holes, less slipping, and better precision. That means I can work with wood, metal, or other materials more confidently and avoid damaging my project. It also saves me money because strong bits last longer and do not wear out quickly.
I also value Makita tools because they help me work safely and comfortably. A well-designed drill reduces fatigue, and dependable bits reduce the chance of mistakes. For me, having a Makita drill and drill bits is not just about convenience—it is about getting professional-looking results with less effort and more confidence every time.
My Buying Guides on Makita Drill And Drill Bits
Why I Chose Makita
When I started looking for a reliable drill, Makita quickly stood out to me because of its strong reputation for durability, performance, and comfort. I wanted a tool that could handle everyday household tasks as well as tougher projects, and Makita seemed to offer that balance. In my experience, the brand is known for making tools that feel solid in the hand and deliver consistent results.
What I Look for in a Makita Drill
When I buy a drill, I focus on a few key things. First, I check the power and speed settings because I want enough strength for wood, metal, and masonry work. I also pay attention to battery life if I’m choosing a cordless model, since I don’t want to stop in the middle of a project. Weight and grip matter too, because a drill that feels comfortable makes long jobs much easier for me.
Cordless vs. Corded Makita Drills
I usually decide between cordless and corded based on the kind of work I plan to do. Cordless Makita drills give me more freedom to move around, which is great for home repairs and outdoor projects. Corded drills, on the other hand, are better when I need continuous power for longer tasks. If I want portability, I go cordless. If I want nonstop performance, I lean toward corded.
Choosing the Right Drill Type
Makita offers different types of drills, and I make my choice based on the project. A standard drill driver works well for general drilling and screw-driving. If I need more force, I look at a hammer drill for tougher materials like brick or concrete. For heavy-duty jobs, I consider impact drivers or more advanced models. Matching the drill type to the task has helped me avoid wasting time and effort.
What I Consider in Drill Bits
Drill bits are just as important to me as the drill itself. I always check what material the bit is made for, because using the wrong bit can wear it out quickly or damage the surface. For example, I use wood bits for timber, metal bits for steel, and masonry bits for concrete or brick. I also look for sharpness, durability, and whether the bits are compatible with my Makita drill.
My Tips for Buying Makita Drill Bits
When I buy drill bits, I prefer sets that cover multiple tasks so I’m prepared for different projects. I like bits with clear labeling and organized storage cases because they make my work easier. I also look for bits with strong materials like high-speed steel or carbide tips, depending on what I plan to drill. In my experience, investing in good-quality bits saves money over time because they last longer.
Battery and Charger Considerations
If I’m buying a cordless Makita drill, I always check the battery type and charging time. A higher-capacity battery gives me longer runtime, which is helpful when I have bigger jobs. I also like having a fast charger so I don’t lose too much time waiting. If possible, I choose tools that use the same battery platform as my other Makita tools, since that makes things more convenient for me.
My Advice on Comfort and Safety
Comfort is a big deal for me because I often use my drill for extended periods. I look for ergonomic handles, balanced weight, and easy-to-reach controls. Safety matters just as much, so I make sure the drill has good grip and proper speed control. I also wear the right protective gear and use the correct bit for the material to keep my work safe and accurate.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, buying a Makita drill and the right drill bits is about choosing tools that fit my projects, my comfort, and my budget. I focus on power, battery life, drill type, and bit quality before making a decision. When I choose carefully, I end up with tools that make my work faster, easier, and more reliable.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, Makita drills and drill bits are a solid choice when I want reliable performance, durability, and smooth results on the job. I like that they offer a good balance of power and precision, making them useful for both everyday tasks and more demanding projects. My takeaway is that choosing the right Makita drill and matching it with the proper bit can make a big difference in efficiency and finish quality.
Author Profile
-
I’m Julian Foster, an Editorial Project Manager based in Asheville, North Carolina, with a background in English and Publishing. Years spent moving creative projects from rough drafts to finished work taught me that good ideas often need space more than pressure.
Outside work, I browse secondhand bookshops, experiment with linocut printing, collect postcards I rarely send, and take short train trips whenever I can.
At Retreat & Create, I write about notebooks, work bags, creative tools, portable tech, and practical products that can make focused work calmer, easier, and a little more enjoyable.
Latest entries
- September 13, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Laundry Pre Treatment Spray and It Removed Stubborn Stains Fast
- September 13, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the 4.80/4.00 x 8 Wheelbarrow Tire: My Honest Review and Buying Guide
- September 13, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Trader Joe’s Multigrain Crackers: My Honest Review, Taste, and Best Snack Pairings
- September 13, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Plain Canned Pumpkin Puree for Dogs: Benefits, Safety Tips, and How to Serve It