Reviewers Say To Think Twice Before Buying These 7 DeWalt Tools

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Since the company's establishment in 1924, DeWalt has become one of the most respected tool manufacturers in the world, supplying both professionals and homeowners. Known for its brushless motor and FLEXVOLT technology, DeWalt produces everything from power tools to storage solutions, and many professionals only trust tools that bear the company's characteristic bold font and vibrant yellow logo. As the most popular power tool brand in the US, DeWalt has earned the praise its tools receive, but everyone has their bad days, even a giant like DeWalt. In the brand's over 100 years of business, it's produced some duds, a handful of which are still on the market today.

When DeWalt strays too far from its power tool roots, it seems to miss the mark, as exemplified by its 2X20V MAX XR Cordless Self-Propelled Mower, 20V MAX Stick Cordless Handheld Vacuum, and 20V MAX 550 PSI Cordless Power Cleaner, which all receive poor reviews from consumers. While DeWalt's lithium-ion battery technology is considered some of the best, not all tools function well on only battery power. Some jobs require the higher voltage provided by a power cord, even if it introduces a tripping hazard. If you've already purchased one of DeWalt's worst products, you can rest easy knowing the company has a robust warranty and support policy. Since 2004, it has covered most tools with three-year limited warranties that include a 90-day money back guarantee.

2X20V MAX XR Cordless Self-Propelled Mower

With the banning of gas outdoor power tools in the state of California and some private communities, battery-operated mowers have begun to usurp the position of gas mowers. DeWalt's cordless self-propelled mower relies on two of the company's 20V MAX batteries. Even combined, reviewers say these batteries do not compare to the strength of other battery-powered mowers on the market, like the 56v Ego Power+ XP Electric Lawn Mower. To make matters worse, the 2X20V MAX XR Cordless Self-Propelled Mower was featured in a 2024 recall due to its vulnerability to electrical shorts.

20V MAX Stick Cordless Handheld Vacuum

DeWalt sells a few vacuums, but the Stick Cordless Handheld is the most disappointing to consumers. Customers complain that the LED light on top of the vacuum is too weak to meaningfully illuminate anything, and on a vacuum meant to be used on tougher dry particulates like sawdust, a HEPA filter is unnecessary and flimsy, making the vacuum prone to clogging. Reviewers are mixed on the vacuum's suction power, with some praising the suction capabilities and others complaining about a lack of power, leading to an overall average rating.

Pneumatic 15° Coil Corded Roofing Nailer

Reliability is important when embarking on large-scale projects like roofing, making the problem-plagued DeWalt Pneumatic 15° Coil Roofing Nailer the last choice for homeowners and roofing contractors alike. Even on DeWalt's website, the Pneumatic 15° Coil Roofing Nailer is not regarded favorably, sitting at 2.5 stars. In reviews, consumers complain that the nailer lacks the recoil necessary for roofing work and that it either double fires or completely misfires, which is frustrating as well as hazardous. Other reviewers find that the nailer jams easily, lengthening the time it takes them to complete projects.

20V MAX 550 PSI Cordless Power Cleaner

Though DeWalt excels when it comes to cordless drills and drivers, you might regret buying its cordless pressure washer kit. This pressure washer may be cordless, but you're still beholden to a hose for water. Many users opt for attachment via garden hose, but numerous reviews on DeWalt's website mention the flimsiness of the garden hose adapter, which sometimes broke within minutes of use despite gentle handling. Even positive reviews, which praise the pressure washer's portability and power, complain that the plastic adapter breaks easily, leaving the product with an overall 2-star rating.

20V Max XR Band Saw

While the DeWalt 20V Max XR Band Saw is a powerful saw that reviewers value for its lightweight-yet-sturdy frame and sharp blade, it is not without its challenges. To activate the saw, you must press two buttons simultaneously. This dual switch feature is intended for safety, but in practice, some reviewers found the dual switch is cumbersome, leaving the user preoccupied and unable to fully concentrate on their task. In the spirit of safety, DeWalt has undermined the tool's usability, leaving some consumers passing on the 20V Max XR Band Saw in favor of other options.

20V Max Rotary Laser Level

A laser level can make your life a lot easier — especially if you're a professional. Because the DeWalt 20V Max Rotary Laser Level retails at $795.99, consumers expect to get their money's worth, and, more importantly, expect it to arrive intact. Some reviewers on Amazon say that their excitement upon receiving their package was ruined by the discovery that the factory-sealed package contained broken parts. Others were disappointed to discover the tool delivered inconsistent readings, making it useless on job sites.

VSR Drywall Screw Gun

Even a small drywall mistake can ruin your home renovation, so it might be best to avoid using the DeWalt Variable Speed Reversible (VSR) Drywall Screw Gun. Despite the Home Depot product description promising that the "sensitive nosepiece offers precise and dependable depth," reviewers describe wrestling with the depth adjuster during their projects. Others found it difficult to switch bits, with some even needing to remove the tool's magnetic tip entirely. As most purchase a drywall screw gun because they provide more precise depth adjustment than a standard drill, this undependable depth issue makes this option unappealing.

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