DeWalt vs Makita Impact Driver: Which One Holds Up?
9/4/2026 10:03:00 AM
#1
ToolTimeTim470
New Member
Posts: 0
Alright folks, I'm in the market for a new 18V impact driver. I've been using a DeWalt for years but I'm hearing good things about the Makita brushless. I do a lot of decking and framing, so I need something that can sink 3 inch screws all day without quitting. Any of you tried both? What's the real deal?
9/4/2026 11:09:00 AM
#2
MakitaMike624
New Member
Posts: 0
Tim, I've owned both. The Makita XDT16 is a beast. The build quality is top notch, and the precision is unreal - you can feather the trigger for decking screws without stripping. But if you're doing heavy framing, the DeWalt DCF887 has a bit more torque. I'd say if you want finesse, go Makita. If you just need brute force, DeWalt. But honestly, Makita's battery tech is better IMO.
9/4/2026 10:35:00 AM
#3
SparkySam873
New Member
Posts: 0
I've been using DeWalt for commercial electrical work for 10 years. DCF887 is my daily driver and it's never let me down. Dropped it off a ladder, kicked it in a mud puddle, whatever - still runs. I haven't personally used the Makita but my helper swears by his. I think it's 6 one way, half dozen the other. Just get good batteries.
9/4/2026 12:45:00 PM
#4
ToolTimeTim470
New Member
Posts: 0
Thanks guys. I'm leaning Makita for the precision aspect, but I'm worried about resale value - I usually upgrade every few years. SparkySam, you think DeWalt holds resale better?
9/4/2026 11:07:00 AM
#5
MakitaMike624
New Member
Posts: 0
Ha! Resale? Both hold decent, but Makita usually gets a bit more on Craigslist because of the die-hard fans. But honestly, if you're upgrading that often, maybe just buy the cheaper one and put the savings into a good tool belt. My 2 cents.
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