Brushless vs brushed motors: is brushless worth the extra money?
Almost every DEWALT cordless tool comes in a brushless version, usually at a higher price. Here is what that premium buys you.
The difference in one paragraph
A brushed motor uses small carbon blocks (brushes) that rub against a spinning commutator to switch the current. A brushless motor replaces that mechanical contact with electronics that switch the magnetic field directly. No rubbing parts means less friction, less heat and nothing to wear out.
What you gain with brushless
- More runtime per charge. Less energy is lost as heat, so the same battery drives more screws or drills more holes.
- More power in a smaller body. Brushless designs are typically shorter and lighter for the same output, which you'll feel working overhead.
- Longer life. With no brushes to wear down, the motor itself is rarely what fails.
- Smarter control. The electronics that run the motor also enable features like multiple speed modes and better overload protection.
When brushed is the better buy
- Light, occasional use. If the drill comes out a few times a year, you'll never notice the runtime difference.
- A tight budget. A brushed kit with two batteries can be more useful than a brushless tool-only unit at the same price.
- A second tool for rough work. Mixing paddles and wire wheels are hard on any tool, so the cheaper one can take that abuse.
Bottom line
For daily or professional use, brushless pays for itself in runtime and lifespan. For DIY use, put the money where it matters most to you. That's often a bigger battery or a better kit rather than the motor type.
Our comparison tool has a Pro durability slider that favours brushless tools. Turn it down if you'd rather save the money.
