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.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.

The short answer

DeWalt DCF860 Impact Driver comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.6 vs 4.3). DeWalt DCF860 Impact Driver is best for: Users needing high torque with moderate speed. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Impact Drivers

DeWalt DCF860 Impact Driver

4.6

1 source$319as of Oct 11

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)
— Compact design with 4.8-inch head length

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

4.3

2 sourcesall derived$233.02as of Oct 1

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
— Quick-Shift technology enabling one-hand mode changes
— Smooth trigger operation that's easier to engage than previous models, per a YouTube review

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

$233.02 · 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 Impact Driver delivers 2500 in-lbs of maximum torque, more than the Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless PBLID04 at 2,300 in-lbs, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Impact Driver 2953-20 at 2000 in-lbs and the Makita XDT19 Impact Driver at 1590 in-lbs. Its 3800 RPM top speed is just under the Milwaukee's 3900 RPM. At 2.7 lbs bare it is heavier than the Milwaukee at 2.2 lbs, with a 4.8-inch head against 4.47 inches.

Makita XDT19 Impact Driver

The Makita XDT19 Impact Driver produces 1590 in-lbs of maximum torque, below the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Impact Driver 2953-20 at 2000 in-lbs and the DeWalt DCF860 Impact Driver at 2500 in-lbs. Its 3600 RPM top speed also trails the Milwaukee's 3900 RPM and the DeWalt's 3800 RPM. It offers four speed settings against the DeWalt's three, with a rear-mounted control panel and Quick-Shift one-hand mode changes.

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

← See the full ranking of best impact drivers