In our flagship model comparison, we'll take a closer look at the DeWalt DCF887 versus the Milwaukee 2953 impact driver in a head-to-head comparison. For DeWalt, it's a tried and true brushless model that's been around for years and forms the basis for the Tool Connect version (DCF888). For Milwaukee, it's the fourth-generation M18 Fuel model coming in 2022.
As we write this, DeWalt has announced a new impact driver (DCF845) that will take over the flagship of the 20V Max line. We haven't had a chance to test it yet, but once we do, we'll update this post with the results.
We'll list what we know objectively, but the ultimate question is…which one is right for you? Everyone has different priorities, so it boils down to highest performance, lowest weight, lowest price, or whatever. Whichever one is the winner in your book, let us know in the comments below!
Check out our recommendations for the best impact drivers of the year!
Why not a DeWalt Atomic DCF850?
The DeWalt DCF850 has the same specifications as the DCF887, but in a lighter and more compact package. However, the 887 performed consistently in our tests, so we think it's the better choice for this comparison.
Milwaukee and DeWalt impact driver specifications
Here's what the manufacturers say about the two impact drivers, along with our measurements of head length and weight:
| DeWalt DCF887 | Milwaukee 2953 | |
|---|---|---|
| top speed | 1000/2800/3250 rpm | 1700/3000/3900 rpm |
| Maximum impact rate | 3800IPM | 4400IPM |
| Maximum torque | 1825 lb-in | 2000 in-lbs |
| head length | 5.3 inches | 4.5 inches |
| bare weight | 2.1 lbs | 2.2 lbs |
| Weight with 5.0Ah battery | 3.4 lbs | 3.9 lbs |
Milwaukee vs DeWalt Impact Driver Test Results
We ran three different performance tests to see what these impact drivers could do with a standard 5.0Ah battery. The first was a moderate load test of 6" x 1/4" GRK Fasteners RSS screws into the stacked OSB subfloor. Results are the average of three tests.
The timing of the second test was to see how far each model could drive a 10" x 1/2" lag screw into the same material in 30 seconds. The result is the average of how many screws remained raised over the three tests – the less the better.
The third test was to see how long it would take to loosen a nut set at 150 ft-lbs (1800 in-lbs). The result is the total time for the 5 bolts added together.
| DeWalt DCF887 | Milwaukee 2953 | |
|---|---|---|
| RSS spiral average | 12.6 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Lag screw average | 3.8 inches | 1.7 inches |
| crazy total | 6.6 seconds | 2.5 seconds |
What if you could use a premium battery? We tested those too! The total capacity of the batteries is not the same, but we try to keep them as close as possible.
| DeWalt DCF887 With 5.0Ah power pack |
Milwaukee 2953 w/6.0Ah high output |
|
|---|---|---|
| RSS spiral average | 10.1 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Lag screw average | 3.4 inches | 1.2 inches |
| crazy total | 6.5 seconds | 1.9 seconds |
| DeWalt DCD887 | Milwaukee 2953 | |
|---|---|---|
| bare tool | $149.00 | $149.00 |
| Compact Battery Kit | $219.00 (2 x 2.0Ah) | not available |
| Standard Battery Kit | $319.00 (2 x 4.0Ah) | $299.00 (2 x 5.0Ah) |
| Warranty | 3 years | 5 years |
So who is your winner? Let us know in the comments below – bonus points for telling us why!