I remember it vividly: a sweltering summer afternoon spent building a new deck. I had my trusty cordless drill, a tool that had served me well for years on smaller household tasks. But driving hundreds of 3-inch deck screws into dense, pressure-treated lumber was a different beast entirely. The drill would strain, the battery would drain in what felt like minutes, and more often than not, the bit would cam out, leaving me with a mangled, stripped screw head that was a nightmare to remove. My frustration grew with every failed attempt. That project taught me a critical lesson: for driving fasteners with serious torque, a standard drill just doesn’t cut it. You need the concussive, rotational power of an impact driver, a tool designed specifically to prevent stripping and sink screws with relentless efficiency.
- Complete a wide variety of applications with up to 1,500 in-lbs of torque.
- Bright LED with 20 second trigger delay for working in dark or confined spaces.
What to Consider Before Buying an Impact Driver
An impact driver is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for any serious DIYer or professional tradesperson. It excels where a regular drill/driver struggles, using a combination of rotation and rapid, powerful impacts (or “blows”) to drive long screws and large fasteners into tough materials without stripping the head or requiring significant downward pressure from the user. This makes projects like framing, decking, fence building, and even automotive work dramatically faster and less fatiguing. The main benefits are raw power, superior control over fasteners, and a significant reduction in user effort and wrist strain.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing repetitive, high-torque fastening tasks. This includes home renovators building sheds, decks, or finishing basements, as well as mechanics, plumbers, and electricians who regularly work with lag bolts, concrete anchors, or self-tapping screws. However, it might not be suitable for those who primarily need to drill precise, clean holes, as the impacting mechanism isn’t designed for that level of finesse. For delicate work or drilling, a traditional drill or a hammer drill with a selectable mode is a better alternative. The DEWALT DCF787B 20V MAX Impact Driver Tool Only finds its sweet spot with users who already own a drill and are looking to add a dedicated, powerful driving tool to their arsenal without breaking the bank.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Motor Technology (Brushless vs. Brushed): This is arguably the most important factor. Brushless motors, like the one in the DCF787B, are more efficient, run cooler, deliver more power, and have a longer overall lifespan than older brushed motors. They provide better runtime from the same battery, which is a massive advantage on large projects.
- Torque and Speed: Torque, measured in inch-pounds (in-lbs), dictates the tool’s raw twisting power. A model with 1,500 in-lbs or more is capable of handling most heavy-duty tasks. Variable speed, controlled by the trigger, is essential for starting screws slowly and preventing damage to delicate surfaces before ramping up to full power.
- Ergonomics & Compactness: You’ll be holding this tool for hours, so it needs to be comfortable. Look for a balanced design, a contoured rubber grip, and a manageable weight. A compact head length is also critical for working between studs, inside cabinets, or in other confined spaces where a bulky tool simply won’t fit.
- Battery Ecosystem: If you already own cordless tools from a specific brand, buying a “tool only” or “bare tool” version that uses the same batteries is the most cost-effective strategy. If you’re starting fresh, consider the breadth of the brand’s battery platform and the cost of additional batteries and chargers.
Making the right choice means investing in a tool that will not only get the job done but will make your work faster, easier, and more professional for years to come.
While the DEWALT DCF787B 20V MAX Impact Driver Tool Only is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Brushless motor for increased runtime and durability
- DCD771 in cordless drill combo kit features two speed transmission (0-450 / 0-1500 RPM)
- Compact (7.6 in. front to back), lightweight design fits into tight areas
First Impressions: Lean, Mean, and Ready for Work
Unboxing the DEWALT DCF787B 20V MAX Impact Driver Tool Only reveals a tool that feels immediately familiar to anyone who has used DEWALT equipment. There’s no fancy case or array of accessories here; as a “Tool Only” offering, you get the impact driver itself and a belt clip. The classic yellow and black housing is robust, and the black rubber overmold on the handle provides a secure, comfortable grip. It’s noticeably compact and lightweight, a clear benefit of its brushless motor design. Compared to older, bulky 18V brushed models, the difference in size and balance is night and day.
Snapping on one of our existing 20V MAX batteries, the tool feels perfectly balanced and ready for action. The 1/4-inch quick-release hex chuck is simple and intuitive, allowing for one-handed bit changes. The variable speed trigger has a smooth, progressive feel, and the single LED light positioned above it provides decent, if not spectacular, illumination of the work area. The immediate impression is that this is a no-frills, purpose-built machine designed for performance and durability, a tool that strips away non-essential features to deliver pro-grade power at an accessible price point. For anyone already in the DEWALT ecosystem, this tool represents an incredible value and a significant upgrade. To see its full feature set and current pricing is to understand its appeal immediately.
Key Benefits
- Exceptional Power-to-Price Ratio: Delivers a formidable 1,500 in-lbs of torque from an efficient brushless motor at a budget-friendly price.
- Compact and Lightweight: The brushless design allows for a very compact head, making it ideal for working in tight spaces.
- Ergonomic Design: Well-balanced with a comfortable rubberized grip that reduces fatigue during extended use.
- DEWALT 20V MAX Ecosystem: Perfect, cost-effective addition for anyone already invested in DEWALT’s extensive 20V battery platform.
Potential Drawbacks
- Bare Tool Only: The cost of a battery and charger must be factored in for users new to the DEWALT platform.
- Basic Feature Set: Lacks multi-speed settings and features a single LED instead of the superior 3-LED ring on premium models.
A Deep Dive into the DEWALT DCF787B’s On-the-Job Performance
A tool’s true worth is only revealed under pressure. Specs on a page are one thing; performance in the hand, driving screw after screw, is another entirely. We put the DEWALT DCF787B 20V MAX Impact Driver Tool Only through a series of demanding tests, from framing a shed wall to assembling heavy-duty garage shelving, to see if its real-world performance lives up to its impressive specifications.
Raw Power and Performance: Taming 1,500 in-lbs of Torque
The headline feature of this impact driver is its 1,500 in-lbs of maximum torque, and in practice, this power is immediately apparent. We started by driving 3.5-inch exterior-grade screws into a stack of pressure-treated 2x6s—a task that would bring a standard drill to its knees. The DCF787B didn’t even break a sweat. After a couple of initial rotations to bite into the wood, the impacting mechanism kicked in with a series of staccato bursts, driving the screw home with incredible speed and authority. There was no hint of stripping the screw head and minimal user effort required; we simply had to guide the tool. This experience was echoed by a user who noted, “I was building a wood shed…A couple hundred screws later, the shed is complete and this tool is now my go to driver.”
We then moved on to 1/4-inch lag bolts, driving them directly into pine studs without a pilot hole. Again, the DCF787B performed flawlessly, sinking the bolts completely. The variable speed trigger proved essential here. It allowed us to start the bolt slowly and precisely before pulling the trigger fully to unleash the tool’s full power. This level of control is crucial for preventing material damage and ensuring fasteners are set correctly. For another user, this power was a revelation: “My sister had a 200 foot long wood fence secured by nails…Three hours later, the whole fence now has upper, middle and lower screws. Great power out of this unit.” It’s this ability to tackle large, demanding projects that truly defines the value you get when you invest in this level of performance.
Brushless Motor Technology: The Efficiency Advantage
The brushless motor is the unsung hero of the DEWALT DCF787B 20V MAX Impact Driver Tool Only. This advanced motor technology, which was once reserved for top-of-the-line professional tools, is a genuine game-changer. Unlike older brushed motors that rely on physical carbon brushes to transfer power—creating friction, heat, and wear—a brushless motor uses electronics to manage power delivery. For the user, this translates into several tangible benefits. First and foremost is runtime. We paired the tool with a compact 2.0Ah battery and were able to drive over a hundred 3-inch screws on a single charge. The tool ran noticeably cooler than our older brushed models, a sign of its efficiency.
This efficiency also contributes to the tool’s longevity. With no brushes to wear out, the motor is subject to far less mechanical wear and tear, promising a much longer service life. This durability is a hallmark of the DEWALT brand, and it’s reassuring to see it present in a tool at this price point. The brushless design is also what allows the tool to be so compact. By eliminating the space required for brushes, engineers can create a smaller, lighter, yet more powerful tool. For anyone upgrading from an older, heavier brushed impact driver or drill, the difference in ergonomics and reduced fatigue over a long workday is profound. The inclusion of this technology is a feature that really sets it apart in the budget-friendly category.
Design and Ergonomics: Built for the Long Haul
Power is useless if the tool is unwieldy or uncomfortable to use. DEWALT has clearly poured its decades of experience into the design of the DCF787B. The handle is contoured perfectly to fit the hand, and the extensive rubber overmolding provides a confident grip, even with sweaty palms or work gloves. We found the tool to be exceptionally well-balanced, especially with a 2.0Ah or 3.0Ah battery attached. This balance minimizes wrist strain and makes overhead work or driving screws at awkward angles significantly easier. As one user aptly put it in their review, the tool is “muy ergomico ligero y prectuco,” which translates to “very ergonomic, light, and practical for working long hours.”
Its compact size, with a head length of just over 5 inches, proved to be a major asset. We were able to easily fit the driver between 16-inch on-center studs and inside tight cabinet assemblies where a larger tool would have been impossible to use. The one-handed bit-loading 1/4-inch hex chuck is a simple but brilliant feature that speeds up workflow when you’re constantly switching between Phillips, Torx, and nut driver bits. The only minor ergonomic critique is the single LED light. While it does a decent job of illuminating the immediate work area, it can cast a shadow from the chuck. It’s a noticeable step down from the three-LED “halo” rings found on premium DEWALT models like the Atomic series, but it’s a perfectly acceptable compromise to achieve this tool’s aggressive price point and a small detail when you consider the overall value and power it delivers.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our findings are strongly supported by a broad consensus of user feedback. The overwhelming sentiment is positive, with many praising the DEWALT DCF787B 20V MAX Impact Driver Tool Only for its incredible power and value. Comments like, “Needed power and I got it with this tool,” and “couldn’t have gotten a machine that delivered the strength and went the distance plus it didn’t break my budget,” are common. Many, like the user building a shed, highlight it as a transformative tool that makes projects quicker and more enjoyable.
However, it’s important to acknowledge some of the critical feedback. A few users reported issues that suggest potential quality control inconsistencies. One user noted, “when i first used it it kept stalling out,” while another asked, “What is this squealing at high speeds?” These appear to be isolated incidents rather than a widespread flaw, but they are worth noting. Additionally, some confusion arises from the product listings themselves. One buyer pointed out, “The description specifies 3 leds, but it only has one.” This highlights the importance for buyers to carefully read the details of the specific “Tool Only” offering to ensure it matches their expectations, as bundled kits may vary.
How Does the DEWALT DCF787B Compare to the Alternatives?
The DEWALT DCF787B 20V MAX Impact Driver Tool Only offers a fantastic blend of power and value, but it exists in a competitive market. Here’s how it stacks up against some popular alternatives.
1. Makita XT281S 18V LXT 2-Pc. Combo Kit
- Efficient BL Brushless motor is electronically controlled to optimize battery energy use for up to 50% longer run time per charge
- The BL Brushless motor eliminates carbon brushes, enabling the BL motor to run cooler and more efficiently for longer life
The Makita XT281S is a compelling option for someone starting their tool collection from scratch. Instead of just an impact driver, this kit provides both an impact driver and a versatile drill/driver, along with a battery, charger, and carrying case. Makita is renowned for its outstanding ergonomics and build quality. While its 18V impact driver might have slightly less peak torque than the DEWALT, it’s more than sufficient for most tasks. This kit is the ideal choice for a user who needs a complete drilling and driving solution and isn’t already tied to the DEWALT 20V MAX battery platform.
2. DEWALT DCF845P2 20V MAX Impact Driver
- BRUSHLESS MOTOR delivers 1825 in-lbs of torque and 3400 RPM to drive large diameter screws
- COMPLETE TOUGH FASTENING APPLICATIONS on the jobsite with 30% more torque**
For the professional or serious DIYer who demands more control and features, the DEWALT DCF845P2 is a significant step up from the DCF787B. This model includes a 3-speed selector switch, allowing the user to dial down the power for delicate tasks to avoid over-driving screws, or unleash maximum torque for heavy-duty applications. It typically boasts a higher torque rating and comes as a complete kit with high-capacity Powerstack batteries and a charger. This is the better choice for those whose work varies greatly day-to-day and who are willing to invest more for premium features and versatility within the same DEWALT ecosystem.
3. DEWALT ATOMIC DCF850P1 Brushless Impact Driver Kit
- Maneuver With Ease - Access difficult-to-reach spots with a compact, ergonomic design.
- High-Performance Brushless Motor - Drive large-diameter screws with 1,825 in-lb. of max torque and 3,250 rpm.
The DEWALT ATOMIC DCF850P1 is a specialist tool that prioritizes one thing above all else: compactness. As part of DEWALT’s ATOMIC Compact Series, this impact driver has an astonishingly short head length, making it the undisputed champion for working in extremely confined spaces like engine bays, between plumbing, or inside cabinetry. While still delivering immense power, its primary selling point is its ability to go where other impact drivers can’t. If your work frequently involves tight quarters, the extra cost for the ATOMIC’s ultra-compact design is easily justified.
Our Final Verdict on the DEWALT DCF787B 20V MAX Impact Driver Tool Only
After extensive testing and analysis, we can confidently say that the DEWALT DCF787B 20V MAX Impact Driver Tool Only represents one of the best values on the market for raw driving power. It successfully brings pro-grade brushless technology and formidable torque down to a price point that is accessible to serious DIYers and budget-conscious professionals. Its compact, ergonomic design makes it a joy to use, even on long projects, and its performance on demanding tasks like decking and framing is undeniable.
While it lacks the bells and whistles of more expensive models, such as multi-speed settings or a premium 3-LED light ring, it absolutely nails the fundamentals. For anyone already invested in the DEWALT 20V MAX battery platform, this tool is a near-essential, cost-effective upgrade that will dramatically speed up your workflow. It’s a no-frills workhorse built to perform. If you’re ready to stop stripping screws and start sinking them with effortless power, we highly recommend you check the latest price and availability of this outstanding impact driver.
Last update on 2025-11-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API