Triton Tools and DeWalt are two of the biggest brands in the power tools industry. I own a couple of tools from these brands, and many people are asking me which of the two works better. So for this post, I created a Triton Tools vs Dewalt face-off to help you choose the right equipment for your projects. I will also compare a few of their tools to help you in the selection process.
A quick look at Triton Tools
Triton Tools was launched in 1976 with power tools designed in Australia. They manufacture their tools in various Pacific countries. Triton Tools offer a wide range of tools, including power tools, work support, benchtops, hand tools, and accessories.
In 1999, Triton Tools was sold to Australia-based Hills Industries after Global Machinery Corporation (GMC) declined the offer. And ultimately, in 2009, the company was sold to Powerbox, a UK-based company. From then on, a distribution center in the United States was established.
A quick look at DeWalt
DeWalt is one of the biggest names in the power tools industry. Almost every woodworker I know has at least one or two DeWalt tools in their kit.
The company was established in 1922 by Raymond DeWalt in the United States. Over the years, they have extended their operation in other countries, including Canada, in 1953. And by 2001, DeWalt had already designed 200 power tools and more than 800 accessories. This long history of power tools expertise makes DeWalt a top choice among woodworkers.
Which performs better?
With DeWalt being older than Triton Tools, it’s easy to see why many workers trust them over the other. However, if we’re going to set aside the age gap, I think Triton Tools has a lot to offer. Here’s my take on these two brands:
✔️Price point
In terms of price point, DeWalt is on the steeper side. This isn’t surprising for such a premium brand. In comparison, a DeWalt 3HP Plunge Router will set you back for an extra US$50 compared to the 3.25H version from Triton Tools. But as they say, you get what you pay for.
So if you want to get quality tools while saving a few bucks, you’re in luck with Triton Tools. Still, this pricing varies based on your location and the availability of the products.
Price point winner: Triton Tools
✔️Return policy
I always consider return policies paramount when buying any woodworking tools. Since these tools aren’t cheap, I want some level of protection on my purchase.
For DeWalt tools, they let you return your power tools, nailer, and laser within 90 days upon the date of purchase. Take note that this is a no-questions-asked guarantee. If you’re not happy with the tool, they will give you a full refund with no conditions. However, this is only applicable if you purchase from the official store or in other accredited shops.
On the other hand, Triton Tools offer a more modest return guarantee of 30 days from your date of purchase. However, this is only applicable if the item has manufacturing defects. Based on what I know, Triton Tools won’t let you return a tool just because you’re not happy with it. Nevertheless, they will repair or replace a defective tool with no added charge.
Return policy winner: DeWalt
✔️Warranty and added guarantees
Aside from return policies, it’s also important to know how long the brand will keep your purchase covered with their warranty terms. This is added protection, especially if you purchase an expensive tool.
For DeWalt, you’ll enjoy 3 years of limited warranty as well as a one-year free service contract. These are applicable to tools purchased on or after January 1st, 2004. However, you should remember that this warranty doesn’t include issues related to normal wear and tear or abuse of the user.
On the other hand, Triton Tools isn’t to be upstaged with their 3-year warranty. Like DeWalt, this warranty only covers damages due to defective materials and not from wrongful use or abuse.
Take note that you need to activate Triton Tools’ warranty by registering the tool to their website. As for DeWalt, you need to call their hotline to inquire about warranty terms. I also recommend registering your tools to their website for easy warranty service.
Warranty winner: Tie
✔️Manufacturing quality
Manufacturing quality isn’t easy to gauge as both brands have a massive product portfolio. For this part, I’ll base the opinion solely on my personal experiences.
According to my research, Triton tools manufacture their electric power tools in Asia Pacific countries. This includes Taiwan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Japan, Indonesia, and China.
Some woodworkers I know will frown upon seeing China on the list. Over the years, the country has had a reputation for producing low-quality products because of mass production. However, I can say that this bad rap isn’t deserved. I’ve had several China-made Triton tools, and they were able to put up to the task.
Besides, manufacturing the tools in these countries with a lower cost of living allows Triton Tools to offer their products at a slashed cost.
On the other hand, most DeWalt tools are manufactured in the United States. They also have factories in Brazil, United Kingdom, Italy, and the Czech Republic. It may surprise some, but DeWalt also outsources production in China. And in my experience, DeWalt is one of the toughest brands you can find.
Manufacturing quality winner: Tie
✔️Product portfolio
In terms of power tools, DeWalt has a clear advantage over Triton Tools. DeWalt has close to two-dozen power tool categories. Meanwhile, Triton Tools has fewer than 20 power tool models. So if you’re planning to beef up your woodworking shop with just one brand, DeWalt might be the best pick.
Still, Triton Tools’ quality and reliability shouldn’t be judged solely on the number of products it sells. Somehow, I believe that the smaller portfolio also means a better commitment to quality for this specific brand.
Product portfolio winner: DeWalt
Are Triton routers any good?
Many woodworkers are torn between Triton Tools and DeWalt when buying routers. Both are fantastic brands, but for me, I prefer Triton for table routers and DeWalt for handheld types.
However, you should remember that DeWalt is a bit more expensive than Triton Tools, whatever router type you’re aiming for. Also, you’ll get more accessories on Triton Tools, which is added value to your purchase.
Nevertheless, both Triton Tools and DeWalt produce solid routers. You’ll never go wrong with either one.
Is DeWalt owned by Stanley?
You might be surprised, but many popular power tool brands are actually owned by Stanley Black & Decker. This includes DeWalt, Porter-Cable, Craftsman, and Black & Decker, among others. Overall, DeWalt is a trademark under Black & Decker, which is a subsidiary of Stanley Black & Decker.
What are the best power tool brands to buy?
Some of the trusted power brands by woodworkers are DeWalt, Bosch, Makita, Triton Tools, and Metabo. Milwaukee, Ridgid, and Hilti are also popular options.
However, it’s important to go beyond the brand when choosing power tools. It’s crucial to check the quality of the tool as well as the suitability of the tool to your projects.
Which is better DeWalt or Makita?
Both Makita and DeWalt are gold standards in woodworking. There’s no simple answer as to which brand is better since both of them have impressive product portfolios.
In my experience, Makita takes a step up in quality, with many of their tools lasting for years. Still, the advantage of DeWalt is their lower cost compared to Makita, with a quality that’s still at par for commercial use.
Which is better, DeWalt or Bosch?
The biggest advantage of DeWalt over Bosch is its longer warranty coverage. Bosch only offers a one-year warranty, while DeWalt backs its products with a three-year limited warranty. This is aside from the 90-day no-questions-asked return policy. On the other hand, Bosch only offers a 30-day return guarantee, but still with a no-condition term.
In terms of pricing, Bosch is the apparent winner. They offer less expensive power tools, though this is somewhat proportional to the warranty you’ll get.
Overall, these two tools are excellent options and can work seamlessly in your shop.
Conclusion
I hope that this Triton Tools vs DeWalt article helped you choose the right equipment for your next projects. Both of these brands are tried and tested by woodworkers. While they differ in pricing, guarantees, and other features, you’ll surely find the right tool that you need.
