Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Impact Drivers

CRAFTSMAN Cordless 1/4 Impact Driver with 2 Ah Lithium Ion Battery, Charger and vs DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Impact Driver, Cordless, Compact, 1/4-Inch, Tool Only (DC

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

CRAFTSMAN Cordless 1/4 Impact Driver with 2 Ah Lithium Ion Battery, Charger and and DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Impact Driver, Cordless, Compact, 1/4-Inch, Tool Only (DC score essentially the same (4.4 vs 4.4). Pick the one whose trade-offs match your priorities — the strengths and watch-outs below are where they actually differ.

CRAFTSMAN Cordless 1/4 Impact Driver with 2 Ah Lithium Ion Battery, Charger and
Ranked #1 in Best Impact Drivers
CRAFTSMAN Cordless 1/4 Impact Driver with 2 Ah Lithium Ion Battery, Charger and
$129

The CRAFTSMAN V20* Cordless 1/4-in Impact Driver delivers 1,460 in-lbs of torque and 2,800 RPMs/3,100 IPMs, making it suitable for demanding fastening tasks. Pro Tool Reviews praised its brushless motor, 3-speed gearbox, and lightweight design at 2.1 lbs. The tool includes a quick-release chuck and LED light for improved usability. While it performed adequately in testing, it ranked toward the back in strength tests. This impact driver is ideal for DIYers and professionals seeking reliable performance within a V20* ecosystem.

Strengths
  • Delivers 1,460 in-lbs of torque and max 2,800 RPMs/3,100 IPMs for quick fastening applications
  • Features quick-release hex chuck for easy one-handed bit changes
  • Integrated LED light helps in dark work areas
Watch-outs
  • No significant drawbacks mentioned in the review
  • Performance in strength tests placed it at the back of the pack
DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Impact Driver, Cordless, Compact, 1/4-Inch, Tool Only (DC
Ranked #2 in Best Impact Drivers
DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Impact Driver, Cordless, Compact, 1/4-Inch, Tool Only (DC
$149

The DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Impact Driver is praised as the most compact 18/20V impact driver tested, measuring just 3.97 inches long. While it performs slightly slower than the DCF887 in demanding tasks, reviewers note it still delivers plenty of speed and torque. The tool features a brushless motor, 3-LED light ring, and reversible belt hook. It's ideal for users who prioritize portability and maneuverability over maximum speed.

Strengths
  • Most compact 18/20V impact driver tested
  • 3-LED light ring around the collet
  • Reversible belt hook
Watch-outs
  • Slightly slower performance in tougher driving tasks
  • No significant drawbacks noted but performance trade-off exists

How they stack up

CRAFTSMAN Cordless 1/4 Impact Driver with 2 Ah Lithium Ion Battery, Charger and

The CRAFTSMAN V20* Impact Driver delivers strong torque and RPMs, but it's outperformed by the DEWALT DCF787D1 in terms of battery capacity and overall durability. Compared to the Craftsman 20V MAX Kit, it lacks the included batteries and charger but offers a more streamlined design. While it's lightweight and efficient, it falls short of the power and torque offered by the DEWALT models, making it less suitable for heavy-duty applications.

DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Impact Driver, Cordless, Compact, 1/4-Inch, Tool Only (DC

The DEWALT ATOMIC is the most compact option in the group, making it ideal for tight spaces where other models like the DCF787D1 or Craftsman 20V MAX would be too bulky. While it sacrifices some speed and torque compared to the DCF787D1, it excels in portability and maneuverability. Unlike the Craftsman V20 MAX combo set, it's a single tool focused on compactness rather than versatility, making it perfect for users who prioritize space-saving design.

Specs side-by-side

SpecCRAFTSMAN Cordless 1/4 Impact Driver with 2 Ah Lithium Ion Battery, Charger andDEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Impact Driver, Cordless, Compact, 1/4-Inch, Tool Only (DC
Voltage20 V20V MAX*
Torque1,460 in-lbs1825 in-lbs
Chuck Size1/4 in.1/4 in.
Max RPM2,800 RPMs/3,100 IPMs3,250 RPM
Impacts Per Minute3,100 ipms3800 IPM
Battery Type2.0Ah Li-ionLi-Ion
Motor TypeBrushedBrushless
Weight2.1 lbs2.1 lbs
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