Milwaukee M18 Fuel
Score: 88/100
DEWALT DCF860B 1-inch
Score: 90/100Rankings
The DeWalt DCF860B is a high-performance 20V MAX XR brushless impact driver delivering 2,500 in-lbs of torque and 3,800 RPM. It features 9 LEDs for superior visibility and 3-speed settings for versatile fastening. It is best suited for professional contractors requiring maximum power and speed for heavy-duty tasks.
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/4" Hex Impact Driver is a high-performance cordless tool featuring a POWERSTATE brushless motor and REDLINK PLUS intelligence, delivering up to 2,000 in-lbs of torque. It offers a compact design and four drive control modes, making it versatile for both precision fastening and heavy-duty applications. It is best suited for professional contractors and electricians requiring reliable daily jobsite fastening within the M18 ecosystem.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
2,000 in-lb | 2,500 in-lbbest | |
18 V | 20 Vbest | |
3,900 RPMbest | 3,800 RPM | |
4,400 IPMbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.2 lbs | 2 lbsbest |
| ↓ lower better | 4.47 inbest | 8.5 in |
3 count | 9 countbest | |
— | 3 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(2) | ||
Maximum Torque (in-lb) | 2000 in-lb | 2500 in-lb |
Maximum Speed (RPM) (RPM) | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Tool Weight (lbs) | 2.2 lbs | 2.0 lbs |
Tool Length (in) | 4.47 in | 8.5 in |
Power & Battery(1) | ||
Battery Voltage (V) | 18 V | 20 V |
Features(2) | ||
LED Light Count (count) | 3 count | 9 count |
Chuck Type | 1/4-inch hex | 1/4-Inch Hex |
Controls(2) | ||
Speed Settings | 4-mode | 3-speed |
Trigger Type | Variable speed | Variable Speed |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional sources emphasize the tool's power and speed leadership within its class, describing the POWERSTATE motor as delivering unmatched power for a wide variety of applications. Experts highlight the brushless motor's durability and the compact design as significant advantages for jobsite accessibility, while praising the Drive Control feature for enabling seamless transitions from precision work to heavy-duty tasks.
Everyday users consistently praise the tool's compact size, lightweight construction, and reliable power delivery. The versatility of the drive control modes and the convenience of one-handed bit insertion are frequently highlighted as key benefits, with users noting reduced fatigue and improved performance in demanding fastening tasks.
Professional reviewers praise the DCF845 as a versatile mid-tier upgrade in DeWalt's lineup, noting its high speed and torque match the DCF887 while being more compact than older models. It is positioned between the ultra-compact Atomic DCF850 and higher-torque options, making it ideal for professionals needing balanced power without bulk.
Aggregated feedback from users echoes professional views on power and compactness. Common praise includes strong torque for heavy fastening, ergonomic design, and reliability in tight spots. There are no prominently noted recurring complaints, though some users note the need for a separate battery.
