DEWALT DCF845B Impact Driver Review
DEWALT is a well established name in the power tool industry, known for producing durable, reliable tools for professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts. Its cordless range combines practical features with the performance needed for demanding applications.
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Impact Driver DCF845B is a brushless cordless impact driver designed to deliver fast, controlled fastening in a compact package. With up to 1,825 in lbs of torque, three speed settings and a maximum impact rate of 4,200 IPM, it offers impressive specifications for woodworking, construction and general fastening tasks.
In this review, we’ll examine the key features, performance, pros and cons of the DEWALT DCF845B and compare it with other impact drivers from DEWALT, Milwaukee and Makita.
Key Features
Power and Performance: The DEWALT DCF845B features a brushless motor delivering up to 1,825 in lbs of maximum torque, with three no load speed settings of 1,500, 2,800 and 3,400 RPM. Its maximum impact rate of 4,200 IPM supports fast fastening across a range of applications.
These specifications make the impact driver suitable for driving long screws, installing structural fasteners and tackling demanding woodworking and construction tasks.
Three Speed Control: The DCF845B features three selectable speed settings and a variable speed trigger, providing greater control over fastening performance. Lower speeds are useful for smaller fasteners and more delicate materials, while higher speeds help drive larger screws quickly.
This straightforward control system makes the tool versatile without adding unnecessary complexity.
Compact and Lightweight Design: Measuring approximately 5.1 inches long and weighing around 2 lbs without a battery, the DCF845B offers a practical balance between power and manoeuvrability. Its compact body helps when working in confined spaces, while its relatively low bare tool weight reduces the burden during repetitive fastening tasks.
Three LED Work Light: The integrated three LED lighting system surrounds the collet to illuminate the working area. This is particularly useful when fastening inside cupboards, beneath decking or in poorly lit construction areas.
Quick Release Collet: The 1/4 inch hex collet allows compatible driver bits to be changed quickly. Its one handed bit insertion design helps streamline repetitive fastening work and minimises interruptions when switching between bits.
DEWALT 20V MAX Battery Compatibility: The DCF845B belongs to DEWALT’s 20V MAX cordless platform and is compatible with the corresponding batteries. The bare tool version does not include a battery or charger.
Performance
The DEWALT DCF845B Impact Driver delivers strong fastening performance, with its brushless motor, high rotational speed and rapid impact mechanism working together to drive screws efficiently.
Independent testing by Pro Tool Reviews found that the DCF845B performed well in three demanding fastening tests. It drove an 8 inch structural screw in an average of 9.1 seconds, left 3.1 inches of a 10 inch lag screw protruding after the publication’s specified test period, and completed its nut busting test in 5.4 seconds.
In the same comparison, the DCF845B outperformed the DEWALT DCF850 and DCF887 across all three tests. These results demonstrate that the higher rotational speed and impact rate can make a meaningful difference, even when competing models share the same published torque rating.
The tool’s three speed control provides useful flexibility, while its compact body and low bare tool weight support comfortable handling during extended use.
Overall, the DCF845B combines strong fastening speed with practical control, making it a capable impact driver for demanding everyday applications.
Pros
Impressive Fastening Performance: The combination of 1,825 in lbs of maximum torque and a 4,200 IPM impact rate provides strong performance for driving screws and compatible fasteners.
Brushless Motor Efficiency: The brushless motor offers efficient operation, reduced routine motor maintenance and the potential for improved battery runtime compared with brushed designs.
Three Speed Versatility: The selectable speed settings allow the tool’s output to be adjusted for different fasteners and materials.
Compact and Lightweight Construction: Its 5.1 inch body and approximately 2 lb bare tool weight make it relatively easy to manoeuvre and handle during repetitive work.
LED Work Lighting: The three integrated LEDs improve visibility around the fastening area, particularly in darker working environments.
Battery Platform Compatibility: Compatibility with DEWALT 20V MAX batteries makes it a convenient addition to an existing collection of compatible cordless tools.
Cons
Battery and Charger Not Included: The DCF845B is supplied as a bare tool, meaning a compatible battery and charger must be purchased separately if they are not already available.
Not the Most Compact DEWALT Model: The DEWALT DCF850 has a shorter body, making it more suitable for applications where access to extremely confined spaces is the main priority.
Limited Advanced Control Modes: The three speed system provides useful adjustment, but it does not offer the same range of specialised electronic assist modes found on certain competing impact drivers.
Not a Replacement for an Impact Wrench: Despite its substantial torque rating, the DCF845B uses a 1/4 inch hex collet. Heavy duty socket fastening and stubborn automotive bolts are better handled with a suitable impact wrench.
Comparison
DEWALT DCF845B vs DEWALT DCF850
The DEWALT DCF850 Atomic is a close alternative, sharing the DCF845B’s published maximum torque rating of 1,825 in lbs.
The main differences are size and speed. The DCF845B measures approximately 5.1 inches long and reaches a maximum no load speed of 3,400 RPM, while the DCF850 has a shorter, approximately 4 inch body and a maximum speed of 3,250 RPM.
The DCF845B’s higher maximum rotational speed may benefit fast screw driving applications, while the DCF850’s shorter body provides an advantage when working in particularly tight spaces. Both offer three speed settings, making them suitable for a range of fastening tasks.
DEWALT DCF845B vs Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2953-20
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2953-20 is a strong competitor in the professional impact driver category. It offers up to 2,000 in lbs of maximum torque, a top no load speed of 3,900 RPM, and a compact body measuring approximately 4.5 inches long.
Compared with the DEWALT, the Milwaukee has higher published torque and maximum rotational speed, along with a shorter body. These specifications give it a potential advantage in demanding fastening applications and restricted workspaces, although actual results depend on the fastener, material, battery, and working conditions.
Both tools offer strong specifications for professional fastening work. The Milwaukee prioritises higher rated output and a compact design, while the DEWALT combines substantial torque with three speed control and an integrated three LED work light.
DEWALT DCF845B vs Makita GDT01
The Makita GDT01 40V max XGT impact driver is another professional grade alternative. It delivers up to 1,950 in lbs of maximum torque, reaches a maximum no load speed of 3,700 RPM, and features multiple electronic operating modes.
The DEWALT has a lower published torque rating and maximum speed, but its stated bare tool weight is approximately 2 lbs. Weight comparisons should be made using the same measurement conditions, as batteries and accessories can significantly affect the overall weight.
Both drivers are designed for demanding fastening applications, but their features serve slightly different priorities. The DEWALT provides three straightforward speed settings, while the Makita offers a wider selection of electronic operating modes for adjusting performance to different tasks. Their different battery platforms are also an important consideration for users who already own compatible cordless tools.
Conclusion
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Impact Driver DCF845B is a capable brushless cordless impact driver that combines strong fastening performance, a lightweight design and useful three speed control.
Its 1,825 in lbs of maximum torque, 3,400 RPM top speed and 4,200 IPM impact rate make it well suited to demanding woodworking, construction and general fastening applications. Independent testing also demonstrates a clear performance improvement over the DCF850 and DCF887 in several specific fastening tests.
Although the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2953-20 offers higher published torque and a shorter body, the DCF845B remains a strong performer in DEWALT’s 20V MAX range. Its compact construction, low bare tool weight and practical controls make it a versatile option for everyday professional use.
Overall, the DEWALT DCF845B delivers an impressive combination of speed, power and manoeuvrability, making it a strong contender in the cordless impact driver category.
