Finding the right cordless drill means balancing power, portability, and value. The DEWALT DCD771C2 20 V MAX Compact Drill/Driver Kit delivers on all fronts. This kit includes the drill, two lithium-ion batteries, a charger, and a contractor-grade bag—making it a great choice for homeowners, DIYers, and light contractors.
In this in-depth review, we’ll cover every detail you need: from specs and design to real-world performance, advantages, drawbacks, and who this kit is best suited for.
⚙️ What’s Included
The DEWALT DCD771C2 kit contains:
- DCD771 Compact Drill/Driver
- Two 20 V MAX 1.3 Ah Lithium-Ion Batteries
- 20 V MAX Charger
- Durable Contractor Bag
This setup is ready to go right out of the box, offering flexibility and convenience without needing extra purchases.
📊 Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 20 V MAX (18 V nominal) |
| Max Output | 300 UWO (Units Watts Out) Consumer Reports+9DEWALT+9Home Depot+9Toolup |
| Speed Settings | 0–450 RPM (low) and 0–1,500 RPM (high) DEWALT |
| Chuck Size | 1/2″ (13mm) single-sleeve ratcheting DEWALT |
| Clutch Positions | 16 incremental settings DEWALT |
| Battery Capacity | 1.3 Ah Li-Ion (x2) DEWALT |
| Tool Length | 8.7″ (221 mm) DEWALT |
| Weight (with battery) | ~4 lbs (approx. 1.8 kg) DEWALT |
| Warranty | 3‑Year Limited, 1‑Year Free Service DEWALT |
🏗️ Design and Build Quality
DEWALT’s compact drill is tailored for tight spaces and overhead tasks. At just under 9″ long, it slides into cabinets, joists, and vehicle interiors with ease DEWALT. The rubber-overmold handle provides a secure, comfortable grip, even in sweaty palms or work gloves.
The single-sleeve ratcheting chuck ensures bits stay tight and change quickly. With two-speed settings, you can adapt your drilling speed from delicate screw driving to faster hole cutting.
A built-in LED light, positioned above the trigger, stays on for about 20 seconds after releasing—helping illuminate your workspace in dim conditions Reddit+2Amazon+2DEWALT+2GearLab.
The package includes two batteries, so while one is in use, the other can charge—ideal for continuous work.
🚀 Performance Overview
Power & Drilling
The 300 UWO output places this drill in a sweet spot for moderate-duty tasks. In controlled tests, it handled:
- Hole saw drilling in solid wood
- 1″ paddle-bit drilling through 2×12 lumber
- Steel sheet drilling with minor gear shifts needed GearLab+1Reddit+1Toolup+3Amazon+3DEWALT+3
While it may not match premium industrial drills, it reliably tackled everyday materials.
Screw Driving
Managing #9 screws and 1/2″ lag bolts, this drill displayed impressive control and speed—setting screws flush quickly. It’s excellent for furniture assembly, door hardware, and mounting hardware GearLab.
Battery Life
Using the included 1.3 Ah batteries, performance isn’t marathon-level; in standardized tests, it powered through four full cycles before depletion GearLab. Still, with dual batteries and quick ~58-minute recharge time, it’s workable for home use GearLab.
💡 Usability & Convenience
- Quick-swap batteries via simple latch mechanism
- LED light for improved visibility in low-light spaces GearLab
- Two-speed gearbox for drilling or driving tasks
- Compact size and reasonable weight reduce fatigue
- Contractor bag keeps tools and accessories organized
The only minor inconvenience: there’s no belt clip or battery fuel gauge, which can be minor annoyances.
✅ Advantages
- Compact and lightweight design ideal for tight spots RedditYouTube+3DEWALT+3Toolup+3GearLabAmazon
- Solid motor output with 300 UWO power DEWALT+1Amazon+1
- Dual-speed gears and 16‑position clutch for accuracy and versatility
- Built-in LED light is practical and helpful YouTube+3Amazon+3DEWALT+3Reddit+3GearLab+3Consumer Reports+3
- Dual batteries and fast charging enable continuous work
- Backed by a robust 3‑year warranty
❌ Considerations
- 1.3 Ah batteries limit runtime under heavy workloads
- Brushed motor—less efficient than brushless models
- Lacks belt clip and battery fuel gauge
- Built for moderate tasks, not heavy industrial use
👥 Ideal Users
This compact drill kit is perfect for:
- Homeowners and renters handling maintenance and installation chores
- DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists building projects
- Apprentices or students needing a reliable starter toolset
- Tradespeople requiring a lightweight secondary drill
- Crafters and remote workers needing a portable, dependable drill
It’s a stellar mid-tier choice—too powerful for ultra-light use, but not intended for intense commercial environments.
🧩 Final Verdict
The DEWALT DCD771C2 Compact Drill/Driver Kit is a smart, well-rounded tool choice for anyone seeking dependable cordless drilling and driving power. It offers a powerful motor, thoughtful design, and versatile performance wrapped in a compact, user-friendly package.
Yes, battery life is moderate—but with dual batteries and quick charging, it’s manageable for most users. Long-term, you can add larger batteries or brushless models. But as a standalone unit or starter kit, the DCD771C2 offers excellent value, capability, and reliability.
Whether you’re mounting shelves, assembling furniture, or tackling occasional repair tasks, this drill kit is a trustworthy, no-nonsense addition to your toolkit.