DeWalt DCF845 vs DCF887
The DCF845 is the newer XR impact driver, but it carries the same torque rating as the DCF887 it sits beside. The changes are in speed, blow rate, length and how gentle the lowest setting is.
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In DCF845 vs DCF887, both are rated at 1,825 in-lbs. The DCF845 is faster (up to 3,400 RPM and 4,200 IPM vs 3,250 RPM and 3,600 IPM), slightly shorter (5.1 vs 5.3 in) and lighter (2.0 vs 2.1 lb). The DCF887 keeps a slower 1,000 RPM Precision Drive mode that is better for small screws. Buy the DCF845 for decks, framing and volume driving; buy the DCF887 for finish work or when it is clearly cheaper.
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DCF845 vs DCF887: the short verdict
DeWalt rates both impact drivers at 1,825 in-lbs, so neither is "stronger" on paper. The DCF845 is tuned for speed: a higher top speed, a much higher blow rate, a shorter body and a lighter bare weight. The DCF887 is tuned for range: a slower Precision Drive setting at the bottom makes it more forgiving with small screws, while the top end is a little slower.
If you drive hundreds of long screws, pick the DCF845. If your work leans toward cabinets, hardware and finish work, or the DCF887 is significantly cheaper, it remains an excellent tool. This comparison is based on DeWalt's published specifications and patterns in owner feedback, not hands-on testing.
Spec comparison table
| Spec | DeWalt DCF845 (20V MAX XR) | DeWalt DCF887 (20V MAX XR) |
|---|---|---|
| Rated max torque | 1,825 in-lbs | 1,825 in-lbs |
| Speed 1 | 1,500 RPM | 1,000 RPM (Precision Drive) |
| Speed 2 | 2,800 RPM | 2,800 RPM |
| Speed 3 | 3,400 RPM | 3,250 RPM |
| Impacts per minute | 4,200 IPM | 3,600 IPM |
| Length | 5.1 in | 5.3 in |
| Bare weight | 2.0 lb | 2.1 lb |
| Work light | 3 LEDs | 3 LEDs |
| Tool Connect | Chip-ready (chip sold separately) | Check the current listing |
| Bare tool model | DCF845B | DCF887B |
| Warranty | 3-year limited, 1-year free service, 90-day satisfaction guarantee | |
DeWalt-published specifications. Verify warranty terms on DeWalt's site before buying.
What actually changed
More blows per minute
The biggest difference is the blow rate: 4,200 IPM versus 3,600 IPM, about 17 percent more on paper. Once a screw resists and the hammer starts working, more blows per minute means the fastener advances faster. On a 3-inch deck screw or a long structural screw, that shows up as a slightly shorter drive time per fastener. On a whole deck, it adds up. Read IPM vs RPM explained for why blow rate matters as much as rated torque.
Higher top speed
Speed 3 rises from 3,250 to 3,400 RPM. That helps on the fast, low-resistance part of a drive, before impacting starts, such as running long screws through the first layer of a joint.
A brisker low setting
This is the trade-off. The DCF845's speed 1 runs up to 1,500 RPM. The DCF887's speed 1 is DeWalt's Precision Drive mode, up to 1,000 RPM, which DeWalt's manual describes as giving greater control in lighter applications such as cabinet hinge screws and machine screws. If you often drive small brass screws, hardware or screws into particleboard, the DCF887 is easier to control. With the DCF845, feather the trigger and use the right bit. Our guide on how to stop stripping screws covers technique.
Slightly smaller and lighter
The DCF845 is 0.2 inch shorter and 0.1 lb lighter as a bare tool. You will not notice that in a store, but over a day of overhead work, every ounce counts. Neither is a true compact tool; for that, DeWalt's DCF850 Atomic is 4.0 inches long. See DCF887 vs DCF850.
Real-world driving: who notices the difference
- Deck builders and framers: yes. The higher blow rate means faster driving on long screws, hour after hour. See how to drive deck screws for settings and technique.
- Remodelers and general contractors: a little. Mixed work means you will use both the fast and slow ends of the tool.
- Cabinet installers and finish carpenters: they may prefer the DCF887 for its slower Precision Drive mode.
- Homeowners: rarely. For shelves, fences and the occasional deck, both are more than capable. Buy on price.
Lag screws, Tapcon screws and structural screws drive about the same on both, because the rated torque is identical. Drill pilot holes for large lags, and never use either tool for the final torque on lug nuts or bolts with a specified value. Finish those with a torque wrench.
Which speed setting to use on each tool
Because the low speeds differ, the same job can call for a different setting on each tool. Use this as a starting point and adjust with the trigger.
| Fastener | DCF845 setting | DCF887 setting |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinet hinges, small brass or machine screws | Speed 1, light trigger | Speed 1 (Precision Drive) |
| Drywall and light-duty wood screws | Speed 1 or 2 | Speed 2 |
| 2-1/2 to 3 in. deck and framing screws | Speed 2 or 3 | Speed 3 |
| Structural screws and lag screws with pilot holes | Speed 3 | Speed 3 |
| Self-drilling screws into light steel | Speed 2, back off at breakthrough | Speed 2, back off at breakthrough |
On either tool, a worn bit wastes more performance than the spec differences between them. Use impact-rated bits, replace them when the tips round over, and keep firm, straight pressure on the screw axis.
Batteries, kits and price
Both run on every DeWalt 20V MAX battery. A compact 2.0 Ah or POWERSTACK compact pack keeps either tool light. Larger 5.0 Ah packs give more runtime for decking days at the cost of weight. Our DeWalt 20V battery guide covers the options.
Both are sold as bare tools (DCF845B, DCF887B) and in kits. The DCF887 has been on sale longer and is frequently discounted, especially in combo kits. The DCF845 tends to sell for more as the newer model. Prices change often, so compare the current listing. If the DCF887 is clearly cheaper and you do not drive long screws in volume, it is the better value. If the prices are close, take the DCF845.
Which job, which tool
| Job or user | Better pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Decking and fencing | DCF845 | 4,200 IPM drives long screws faster |
| Framing and structural screws | DCF845 | Higher blow rate and top speed |
| Cabinets and hardware | DCF887 | 1,000 RPM Precision Drive mode |
| Furniture and flat-pack | DCF887 | Gentler low speed for particleboard |
| Tight spaces | Neither; consider the DCF850 | 4.0 in body |
| Tight budget | Whichever is cheaper | Same rated torque |
Who should buy each
DeWalt 20V MAX XR Brushless 1/4 in. 3-Speed Impact Driver (DCF845)
Best for: deck builders, framers and anyone driving long screws all day.
- Torque
- 1,825 in-lbs
- Speed
- 1,500/2,800/3,400 RPM
- Impacts
- 4,200 IPM
- Length
- 5.1 in
Strengths
- Highest blow rate in DeWalt's mainstream 20V lineup
- Lighter and shorter than the DCF887
- Tool Connect chip-ready
Weaknesses
- 1,500 RPM low speed is less gentle on small screws
- No named Precision Drive mode
- Usually costs more than the DCF887
DeWalt 20V MAX XR 1/4 in. 3-Speed Impact Driver (DCF887)
Best for: mixed work, finish carpentry and budget buyers.
- Torque
- 1,825 in-lbs
- Speed
- 1,000/2,800/3,250 RPM
- Impacts
- 3,600 IPM
- Length
- 5.3 in
Strengths
- Precision Drive mode for small screws
- Same rated torque as the DCF845
- Often discounted
Weaknesses
- Lower blow rate (3,600 IPM)
- Longest of DeWalt's three main 20V impacts
See the full DeWalt impact driver lineup, or how DeWalt stacks up against its biggest rival in Milwaukee vs DeWalt.
Verdict
The DCF845 is the better driver of long fasteners: faster, lighter and slightly shorter, with the same rated torque. The DCF887 is the better tool for delicate work thanks to Precision Drive, and often the better value. Buy the DCF845 if you build decks or frame; buy the DCF887 if you do finish work or find it well below the DCF845. Wear eye and hearing protection whichever you choose.
Frequently asked questions
Is the DCF845 an upgrade over the DCF887?
For driving speed, yes: it has a higher top speed and about 17 percent more impacts per minute on paper, in a slightly shorter, lighter body. For delicate work, not really, because its lowest speed is faster. Same rated torque, different tuning.
Does the DCF845 have Precision Drive?
DeWalt's DCF845 product page describes a 3-speed setting for control but does not name a Precision Drive mode. The DCF887 manual explicitly identifies speed 1 as Precision Drive at up to 1,000 RPM. Check the current listing and manual if that mode matters to you.
What is the DCF845B?
The DCF845B is the bare tool version: the impact driver and a belt hook, with no battery or charger. Kits add batteries and a charger and use other suffixes. Buy the B version if you already own DeWalt 20V MAX batteries.
Is the DCF845 compatible with Tool Connect?
DeWalt says the DCF845 is chip-ready for its Tool Connect tracking system, with the chip sold separately. That lets fleet managers or crews track tools on a jobsite. Most homeowners will never use it.