
Milwaukee M12 3453-20
Score: 78/100
DEWALT DCF870B
Score: 72/100Rankings

The Milwaukee M12 FUEL 3453-20 is a subcompact cordless impact driver designed for fastening applications in tight spaces, featuring a brushless motor and advanced battery management technology. It offers high torque and speed in a lightweight, portable package, making it highly suitable for confined spaces. It is best suited for compact workspace professionals needing access under cabinets or in confined areas, such as electricians and plumbers.

The DEWALT DCF870B is a specialized 20V MAX XR hydraulic impact driver designed for noise-sensitive environments, offering up to 57% quieter operation than standard tools. While it delivers 500 in-lbs of torque, the softer hydraulic pulse limits its effectiveness for heavy-duty applications compared to mechanical drivers. It is best suited for professionals working in residential cabinetry, electrical, and plumbing installs who need a compact tool for tight spaces.
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
1,500 in-lbbest | 500 in-lb | |
12 V | 20 Vbest | |
3,600 RPMbest | 3,000 RPM | |
4,000 IPM | 4,200 IPMbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 1.6 lbsbest | 2.2 lbs |
| ↓ lower better | 5 in | 4.6 inbest |
3 count | 9 countbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
Performance(3) | ||
Maximum Torque (in-lb) | 1500 in-lb | 500 in-lb |
Maximum Speed (RPM) (RPM) | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Impacts Per Minute (IPM) (IPM) | 4000 IPM | 4200 IPM |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Tool Weight (lbs) | 1.6 lbs | 2.2 lbs |
Tool Length (in) | 5.0 in | 4.6 in |
Power & Battery(1) | ||
Battery Voltage (V) | 12 V | 20 V |
Features(1) | ||
LED Light Count (count) | 3 count | 9 count |
Controls(1) | ||
Speed Settings | 4-mode | 2-speed |


Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).

Professional reviewers and editors highlight the Milwaukee M12 FUEL 3453-20 as the fastest and most compact impact driver in its subcompact class. One reviewer noted a preference for the M12 over the larger M18 model due to its practicality and ease of carrying throughout the workday. The tool is praised for its brushless motor performance and compact design, making it highly suitable for confined spaces.
The search results indicate substantial user engagement with 56 customer questions and answers on Home Depot's product page. However, there are no detailed user reviews or specific customer feedback excerpts provided in the data to determine common praise or recurring complaints.

Professional reviewers praise the DEWALT DCF870B for its high productivity in driving small to medium screws, citing its 3,000 RPM, 4,200 IPM, and 500 in-lbs torque as strong for a hydraulic tool. It is recognized as the quietest impact driver available, offering significant noise reduction. However, experts note that the softer hydraulic blows limit its effectiveness compared to standard drivers, making it less suitable for heavy-duty applications requiring maximum impact force.
Search results lack direct consumer reviews or forum discussions, so no specific praise or complaints from everyday users are available. Professional sources emphasize the tool's quietness and compactness without providing user feedback quotes.
