You’ve built your toolkit around DeWalt 20V MAX batteries, but a colleague’s Makita 18V LXT drill would be perfect for a specific job. Rather than buying a new battery system, a DeWalt to Makita adapter lets you use your existing DeWalt batteries in any LXT tool. It’s a straightforward, affordable solution for occasional cross-brand tool use.
This guide reviews the best DeWalt to Makita adapters available in the UK, explains how they work, covers battery compatibility, and outlines the practical limitations you should be aware of.
How DeWalt to Makita Adapters Work
The DeWalt 20V MAX platform and Makita 18V LXT platform deliver the same nominal voltage—both are 18V systems. DeWalt markets theirs as “20V MAX” to distinguish from older 18V tools, but they’re electrically identical. The only difference is the physical contact points and battery shape.
A DeWalt to Makita adapter is a mechanical clip that fits onto your DeWalt battery and presents the Makita contact interface to an LXT tool. The adapter itself contains no electronics—it’s purely a passive bridge. Because of this, adapters are tool-only: you can use your DeWalt battery in a Makita tool, but you cannot charge a DeWalt battery in a Makita charger (Makita chargers won’t recognise the DeWalt battery).
The adapter typically adds 12–15mm of height to your battery pack. This rarely causes problems, but always test your fit before committing to overhead work or placement in confined spaces like tool bags with tight compartments.
Best DeWalt to Makita Adapters
Badaptor DEW-MAK (Premium Pick)
The Badaptor DEW-MAK is purpose-built for DeWalt-to-Makita conversion and engineered to the same high standards as the Makita-to-DeWalt variant. Constructed from rigid ABS plastic with a snap-fit mechanism, it provides a secure, wobble-free connection. The key selling point is a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects, which is valuable if you plan to rely on the adapter across multiple jobs.
Badaptor adapters are priced at £23–29 on Amazon UK. The warranty and UK-based support justify the premium if you use the adapter regularly or professionally. Many UK electricians and plumbers who work across multiple tool brands keep one in their van.
Buy Badaptor DEW-MAK on Amazon
TPDL Adapter (Best Value)
The TPDL is the most affordable generic option, typically priced at £16–20. It’s a straightforward clip-on design that works reliably with all DeWalt 20V MAX batteries. Thousands of tradespeople use this adapter weekly without incident. The design is simple—fewer moving parts means fewer things to go wrong.
The TPDL doesn’t have a brand name on the box because it’s a generic adapter used across multiple platforms. This lack of branding doesn’t indicate lower quality; it just means the cost savings are passed to you. Warranty is typically 12 months. If you adapt batteries only occasionally and are budget-conscious, this is the sensible choice.
DM18M Multi-Adapter (Covers Multiple Brands)
If you work with DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee tools, the DM18M eliminates the need to buy three separate adapters. This single unit accepts a DeWalt 20V MAX battery and converts it to Makita 18V LXT, Milwaukee M18, or a standalone USB charging output (5V, 2A for phones).
The DM18M adds versatility but complexity—it has more moving components than a simple clip adapter, so there’s marginally more potential for wear with frequent use. Priced at £18–25, it’s a sensible investment if you regularly work across brands. Warranty is typically 12 months. The USB charging port is handy on site, though charging a phone will noticeably reduce your battery’s runtime.
Buy DM18M Multi-Adapter on Amazon
Comparison Table
| Adapter | Design Type | Price Range | USB Port | Warranty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Badaptor DEW-MAK | Snap-fit rigid ABS | £23–29 | No | Lifetime | Professional regular use |
| TPDL | Clip-on plastic | £16–20 | No | 12 months | Budget-conscious, occasional use |
| DM18M Multi-Adapter | Modular, multi-brand | £18–25 | Yes (5V, 2A) | 12 months | Multi-brand shops, USB charging needed |
Compatible DeWalt 20V MAX Batteries
All current DeWalt 20V MAX batteries are compatible with these adapters:
- DCB206 — 6.0Ah, standard workhorse battery
- DCB205 — 5.0Ah, compact and widely stocked
- DCB204 — 4.0Ah, lightweight option
- DCB203 — 3.0Ah, minimal weight and cost
- DCB201 — 2.0Ah, rarely used but compatible
FLEXVOLT batteries also work: DeWalt’s 54V FLEXVOLT batteries automatically step down to 20V when used in a 20V tool. With an adapter, a FLEXVOLT battery will operate your Makita 18V LXT tool at full 18V, giving you extended runtime compared to a standard 20V MAX battery—a useful advantage on longer jobs.
Important Limitations
No reverse charging: Adapters enable tool use only. You cannot charge a DeWalt battery in a Makita charger with an adapter attached. Makita chargers do not recognise DeWalt batteries and will not charge them, even with an adapter. Always use your DeWalt charger to recharge DeWalt batteries.
Height and fit: The extra 15mm of battery height is normally unnoticed, but test fit before overhead work or storage in tight spaces. Some tool trays and older battery charger docks may not accommodate the additional height.
Not for every tool: Use adapters only on standard 18V Makita LXT tools. Makita 40V XGT tools and higher-voltage systems require different contact geometry and will not work with an 18V adapter. Stick to the standard LXT range: drills, impact drivers, saws, grinders, and nailers.
Contact wear: Repeated connection and disconnection gradually wears the adapter’s internal contacts and the battery’s spring terminals. Inspect regularly for visible corrosion, cracks, or loose clips. Replace the adapter if contacts become blackened or corroded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a DeWalt 20V MAX battery damage a Makita 18V LXT tool?
No. The voltage is effectively identical (both 18V nominal), and the adapter simply provides the correct physical interface. As long as the adapter is functioning properly and contacts are clean, there’s no risk of voltage mismatch or tool damage. Inspect the adapter for visible damage before use.
Can I use DeWalt FLEXVOLT batteries in Makita tools with an adapter?
Yes. FLEXVOLT batteries automatically sense the tool’s voltage requirement and step down to 20V when inserted into a 20V MAX tool. With an adapter in a Makita 18V LXT tool, the FLEXVOLT battery will operate at full 18V and actually provide extended runtime because FLEXVOLT packs are physically larger and have more capacity than standard 20V MAX batteries.
What’s the difference between the Badaptor and the TPDL?
The Badaptor has a lifetime warranty, snap-fit mechanism, and UK-based support. The TPDL is a simpler clip design with a 12-month warranty. Both work reliably. Choose the Badaptor if you use the adapter daily or want peace of mind; choose the TPDL if you need it occasionally and are budget-conscious.
Is the DM18M worth it if I only own DeWalt and Makita batteries?
Probably not. For two brands, you’d be paying extra for the multi-adapter capability and USB port you won’t use. Either buy two single-direction adapters (one for each direction) or just one—most people only need to go one direction. The DM18M shines if you own three or more tool brands.
Can I leave the adapter on the battery when I’m not using it?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. Leaving the adapter attached exposes the tool’s contacts to dust and corrosion. Remove the adapter after use and store it separately in a clean, dry place. This also reduces unnecessary wear on the adapter’s clips and the battery’s spring terminals.
Which adapter is best for occasional use?
The TPDL at £16–20 is perfect for occasional use. It’s reliable, inexpensive, and requires no maintenance beyond keeping the contacts clean. If you use the adapter more than once a month, the Badaptor‘s lifetime warranty becomes worthwhile.
Related platform pages: DeWalt 20V MAX Battery Compatibility | Makita 18V LXT Battery Compatibility
