Head-to-head · Best Impact Drivers

DeWalt DCF860 Impact Driver vs Makita XDT19 Impact Driver

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

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The short answer

DeWalt DCF860 Impact Driver comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.2 vs 4.0). The gap is mostly about Users needing high torque with moderate speed — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Impact Drivers

DeWalt DCF860 Impact Driver

4.2

4 sources3 derived$319as of Aug 14

The DeWalt DCF860 delivers a substantial performance leap over its predecessor, offering 2500 in-lbs maximum torque and 3800 RPM top speed. It outperforms competitors like the Flex FX1371A and Milwaukee 2953 in driving tests, completing tasks faster than the DCF845. The tool features a compact design with a 4.8-inch head length and includes LED lighting for dark work environments. While it's more powerful, the increased weight of 2.7 lbs (bare) may be a consideration for some users.

Strengths

— Impressive performance boost over DCF845 with 675 in-lbs more torque
— Top speed reaches 3800 RPM (400 RPM increase)
— 3 speed modes with light function for dark environments

Watch-outs

— Weight is higher than DCF845 at 2.7 lbs (bare tool)
— No significant drawbacks mentioned but heavier weight may be a trade-off for some users

$319 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #3 in Best Impact Drivers

Makita XDT19 Impact Driver

4.0

4 sources3 derived$95.87as of Aug 14

The Makita XDT19 delivers a refined balance of performance and portability, featuring a compact design that's lighter than its predecessor while maintaining Pro-grade functionality. Its rear-mounted controls and Quick-Shift capabilities enhance user experience, though some may find the control layout more complex. While it offers solid driving speed and precision modes, its torque output trails behind certain competitors in the same category. This tool is ideal for professionals seeking a versatile, well-balanced impact driver for general fastening tasks.

Strengths

— Compact and lightweight design weighing 2 lbs 12.3 oz with a 2Ah battery
— Rear-mounted control panel for easier visual confirmation of speed and drive mode
— Quick-Shift technology enabling one-hand mode changes

Watch-outs

— Torque output of 1590 in-lbs is lower than some Pro-brand flagship models
— Rear-mounted controls may be more complex than some users prefer

$95.87 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

DeWalt DCF860 Impact Driver

The DeWalt DCF860 delivers 2,500 in-lbs of torque, which is more than the Milwaukee 2953-20 and Ryobi PBLID04, but less than the Milwaukee 2853-22 XC Kit. It's faster than the Milwaukee 2953-20 with 3800 RPM, but lacks the tri-beam LED lighting and one-hand bit insertion. Compared to the Makita XDT19, it's more powerful but heavier, and unlike the Porter-Cable PCCK607LB, it offers better torque control and performance in demanding applications.

Makita XDT19 Impact Driver

The Makita XDT19 offers a more compact and ergonomic design than the Milwaukee 2953-20 and DeWalt DCF860, with rear-mounted controls and Quick-Shift technology. It's lighter than the Milwaukee 2853-22 XC Kit and Porter-Cable PCCK607LB, but delivers less torque than the Milwaukee models. Unlike the Ryobi PBLID04, it has better trigger control and more consistent performance, though it lacks the high-speed capabilities of the Milwaukee 2953-20.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	DeWalt DCF860 Impact Driver	Makita XDT19 Impact Driver
No-Load Speed	3800 RPM	3600 RPM
Impact Rate	4500 IPM	0-1100/2600/3600/3800 IPM
Max Torque	2500 in-lbs	1590 in-lbs
Weight	2.7 lbs (bare tool)	2 lbs 12.3 oz
Chuck Size	1/4 in. hex	1/4 in. hex
Motor Type	Brushless	Brushless
Chuck Type	1/4 In. Quick-connect Hex Chuck	1/4 in. hex
Speeds	3	4
Voltage	20 volts	18 volts
Battery	—	18V LXT Lithium-Ion 5.0Ah batteries

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