Makita and Dewalt have been rivals in the world of power tools since they were founded in the early 20th century. The two companies grew up side by side, both companies making a name for themselves in the ‘60s and ‘70s with innovations like the bench grinder from Dewalt and Makita’s first rechargeable battery-powered drill. Over the years, these two companies have done their part to completely reimagine the way you build, nearly matching one another tool for tool, great idea for great idea.
Throughout the years, Makita has provided builders and craftsmen with convenience and high performance. The innovation of the rechargeable drill was truly a game changer, and they didn’t stop there. In 1978 they released the first drill to use NiCad batteries, and within just a few years came out with their first pneumatic (air powered) tools. Not only has Makita provided the world with great power tools, but has sponsored bands and sports teams.
For just about every accomplishment Makita has made over the years, Dewalt has been right alongside them with their own innovations. In 1960, Dewalt merged with Black & Decker to be among some of the most popular brands in the world. To compete with Makita’s string of cordless, rechargeable tools, Dewalt released a line of 30 tools in 1994 which happened to be the most powerful cordless tools to date. In terms of stock shares and service centers, Dewalt has Makita beat, but the companies are still neck and neck in quality, ideas, online dealers, and even Twitter followers.
So, which team are you? Do you reach for Makita’s tools, which are always dressed in that classic blue, or does Dewalt’s iconic yellow brand grab your attention when you walk into the store? Whichever company you prefer, you can be sure that your toolbox is filled with high quality tools that will get the job done right.