Skip advert
Advertisement

Makita DTW281

Top quality from this compact Makita, which was close to taking the win here

Makita DTW281
Overall Auto Express rating

4.0

Best price: £289 | Battery: 18V Li-ion

Top quality from this compact Makita, which was close to taking the win here. The tool has a good balance – it sits comfortably in the hand with a well positioned direction change slider. Punchy brushless motor easily spun off our test bolt and felt like it could have handled a far tougher test. Unlike the Makita we tested last time, this has variable torque and a battery monitor to go with the handy work light above the trigger.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Volkswagen Golf
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £15,270Avg. savings £2,398 off RRP*Used from £6,460
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £39,045Avg. savings £4,963 off RRP*Used from £26,640
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,175Avg. savings £2,530 off RRP*Used from £7,500
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Bold new Hyundai Tucson looks ready to conquer the family SUV class
New Hyundai Tucson Mk5 - front static

Bold new Hyundai Tucson looks ready to conquer the family SUV class

The new fifth-generation Tucson combines heavy-duty style, cutting-edge tech and, supposedly, best-in-class cabin space
News
19 Aug 2026
New Ford Fiesta ST: ‘non-negotiable’ return of an iconic hot hatch
Ford Fiesta ST render (watermarked) - front

New Ford Fiesta ST: ‘non-negotiable’ return of an iconic hot hatch

Fast Fords are ‘non-negotiable’, the first could be a return of the hot Fiesta ST supermini
News
21 Aug 2026
New Dacia Spring 2026 review: with more power comes greater ability
Dacia Spring Extreme - front tracking

New Dacia Spring 2026 review: with more power comes greater ability

A larger and more powerful motor has transformed the Spring into a surprisingly accomplished motorway cruiser, although previous pitfalls remain.
Road tests
20 Aug 2026