I remember the exact moment I swore off driving long screws with a standard drill. I was building a raised garden bed, using 4×4 pressure-treated posts and 6-inch lag screws. With my trusty drill-driver, every single screw was a battle. The bit would cam-out, stripping the screw head. My wrist ached from the immense counter-torque, and the battery died twice before I was even halfway through. It was a frustrating, inefficient, and physically taxing process. That project taught me a valuable lesson: for driving fasteners, especially long or large ones, a standard drill is simply the wrong tool for the job. The constant strain, stripped hardware, and slow progress are not just annoyances; they compromise the quality of your work and drain your energy. This is precisely the problem that an impact driver was engineered to solve.
- Impact driver
- light weight
What to Consider Before Buying a Cordless Impact Driver
An impact driver is more than just a tool; it’s a key solution for efficiently and powerfully driving screws and other fasteners with minimal effort and maximum control. Unlike a drill, which provides constant rotational force, an impact driver combines that rotation with a series of rapid, powerful concussive blows (impacts). This mechanism delivers massive torque directly to the fastener, virtually eliminating the reactionary torque you feel in your wrist and preventing the bit from slipping and stripping the screw head. This makes it indispensable for tasks like deck building, framing, cabinet installation, and any project involving driving numerous long screws into dense material.
The ideal customer for this type of product is anyone from a serious DIY homeowner to a professional contractor. If you find yourself building furniture, working on automotive repairs, or undertaking any construction project, an impact driver will revolutionize your workflow. However, it might not be suitable for those who need to drill precise, clean holes, as the impacting action is not designed for that. For delicate tasks or hole-drilling, a traditional drill-driver or a dedicated drill remains the better choice. Someone who only hangs the occasional picture frame would likely find an impact driver to be overkill.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: The primary advantage of many impact drivers is their compact size. A shorter head length (measured from front to back) allows you to work between studs, inside cabinets, or in engine bays where a larger drill can’t fit. Always check the tool’s dimensions to ensure it meets the demands of your typical projects.
- Capacity/Performance: Performance is measured by three key metrics: Torque (in inch-pounds or foot-pounds), Rotational Speed (RPM), and Impacts Per Minute (IPM). Higher torque means more power for driving larger fasteners. Higher RPM translates to faster driving, and higher IPM means the tool applies its concussive force more rapidly, powering through dense material with ease.
- Materials & Durability: Look for a tool with a durable housing, often a combination of hard plastic and rubber overmold for grip and impact resistance. An all-metal gear case is a sign of a professional-grade tool built for longevity. The quality of the internal components, particularly whether the motor is brushed or brushless, will significantly impact the tool’s lifespan and performance.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Ergonomics are paramount. A well-balanced tool with a comfortable grip will reduce fatigue during extended use. Features like a one-handed bit-loading chuck, an effective LED work light, and a belt clip add significant convenience. Cordless tools also require considering the battery platform, as being locked into one ecosystem can be a long-term commitment.
Choosing the right impact driver can dramatically speed up your projects and improve the final result. It’s about having the right power and precision at your fingertips.
While the DEWALT DCF885 20V MAX Cordless Impact Driver 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: Unboxing the DEWALT DCF885
Our test model of the DEWALT DCF885 20V MAX Cordless Impact Driver arrived in “bulk packaging,” which is a no-frills, practical approach. There’s no fancy retail box, just the tool itself in a clear plastic bag. For the professional or seasoned DIYer who values substance over style, this is perfectly fine. The moment I picked it up, two things were immediately apparent: its compact size and its solid build quality. The classic DEWALT yellow and black housing feels rugged, and the black rubber overmold provides a secure, comfortable grip. At just 5.55 inches from front to back, it feels incredibly nimble and well-balanced, even before a battery is attached.
Clipping on a 2.0Ah 20V MAX battery (sold separately), the tool’s weight comes in at just over 3 pounds, which is light enough for overhead work without causing premature fatigue. The 1/4-inch hex chuck has a satisfying, spring-loaded feel, designed for quick, one-handed bit changes. The most impressive initial feature, however, is the tri-LED light ring surrounding the chuck. A quick pull of the trigger illuminates the workspace from three angles, a design that promises to eliminate the frustrating shadows cast by single-LED lights found on many competing models. Overall, the first impression is that of a purpose-built, no-nonsense tool designed for serious work in real-world conditions.
What We Like
- Incredibly compact design allows access to the tightest of spaces.
- Impressive torque for driving long and large fasteners with ease.
- Tri-LED light system provides brilliant, shadow-free illumination.
- One-handed bit loading for quick and efficient changes on the job.
- Excellent value for those already invested in the DEWALT 20V MAX platform.
What We Didn’t Like
- Brushed motor is less efficient and has a shorter lifespan than brushless alternatives.
- Some quality control issues reported, such as missing belt hooks in bulk packaging.
Deep Dive: Putting the DEWALT DCF885 Through Its Paces
A tool’s true character is revealed not on a spec sheet, but in the dust and debris of a real project. We spent several weeks using the DEWALT DCF885 20V MAX Cordless Impact Driver across a range of applications, from framing a basement wall to assembling flat-pack furniture and performing routine automotive maintenance. This is where its blend of power, ergonomics, and thoughtful design truly came to the forefront.
Raw Power and Driving Performance
Don’t let the compact size fool you; this impact driver is a beast. With a spec sheet boasting 1400 in-lbs (117 ft-lbs) of maximum torque and up to 3200 impacts per minute, the DEWALT DCF885 20V MAX Cordless Impact Driver has more than enough power for 95% of tasks a professional or homeowner will encounter. Our first test was a classic torture test: driving 3/8″ x 5″ lag bolts into a pressure-treated 4×4 post without drilling a pilot hole. The DCF885 didn’t hesitate. The familiar high-pitched chatter of the impact mechanism kicked in, and the tool relentlessly drove the bolt home until the washer bit firmly into the wood. There was virtually no reactionary torque transferred to my wrist, a stark contrast to the wrestling match I’d have with a standard drill.
Next, we moved to a more common application: deck building. Sinking hundreds of 3-inch coated deck screws is a monotonous task that can quickly drain batteries and cause fatigue. The DCF885 excelled here. Its 2800 RPM top speed allowed us to drive screws quickly and efficiently. We found the variable speed trigger to be highly responsive, giving us precise control to start screws slowly without them skipping, and then ramping up to full speed to sink them in seconds. This experience confirmed what one user noted: it’s incredibly “helpful with long screws, usually > 2”.” The sheer power and speed transform tedious jobs into quick work. For anyone building decks, fences, or subfloors, the performance of this compact and powerful tool is a genuine game-changer.
Ergonomics and Handling in Tight Spaces
Power is useless if you can’t get the tool where it needs to go. This is where the compact 5.55-inch front-to-back length of the DEWALT DCF885 20V MAX Cordless Impact Driver becomes its superpower. During our basement framing project, we had to fasten studs in tight corners and drive screws to attach blocking in narrow joist bays. A larger, bulkier drill would have been impossible to maneuver. The DCF885, however, fit with ease, allowing us to maintain a proper angle and drive fasteners securely without compromise. Its light weight (specs say 2.8 lbs with battery, but it feels even lighter) made overhead work, like installing strapping on a ceiling, far less fatiguing than with older, heavier 18V tools.
The ergonomic design of the handle is another high point. The contoured grip fits comfortably in the hand, and the rubber overmold provides a secure hold, even when wearing gloves or working with sweaty palms. The tool’s balance is excellent, especially with a compact 2.0Ah battery. It doesn’t feel front-heavy or back-heavy, which contributes to better control and accuracy when placing screws. This meticulous attention to ergonomics means you can work longer and more comfortably, which is a critical factor for both professionals who use their tools all day and DIYers tackling a weekend project. For anyone who’s ever struggled to fit a tool into a tight spot, the compact and lightweight design is reason enough to consider it.
Job Site Usability and Key Features
Beyond raw power and comfort, a few key features elevate the DEWALT DCF885 20V MAX Cordless Impact Driver from a good tool to a great one. The most notable is the tri-LED light ring. Many impact drivers have a single LED mounted above or below the chuck, which inevitably casts a shadow on one side of the fastener. DEWALT’s design places three bright LEDs around the chuck, flooding the contact point with light from all angles. This completely eliminates shadows, giving you a crystal-clear view of your work, which is invaluable when working in poorly lit areas like closets, under sinks, or inside cabinets. The 20-second delay after trigger release is another thoughtful touch, allowing you to inspect your work without having to keep the tool running.
The 1/4-inch hex chuck is designed for one-handed operation. You simply push the bit in, and it locks securely in place. To release it, you pull the collar forward. This makes swapping between a Phillips bit and a Torx bit quick and painless, keeping your workflow uninterrupted. The included belt hook is another essential feature for job site convenience, allowing you to hang the tool from your belt or pocket when you need both hands free. However, it’s worth noting a user complaint that their bulk-packaged tool arrived without the hook. While ours came complete, this suggests a potential quality control inconsistency buyers should be aware of when purchasing. Despite this, the combination of brilliant lighting and efficient bit changes makes this tool a joy to use in a professional setting. You can check the latest price and all included components on its product page.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our positive hands-on experience with the DEWALT DCF885 20V MAX Cordless Impact Driver is largely mirrored by the broader user community, though not without some important caveats. Many users echo our findings, with one stating it’s “very helpful with long screws” and that the “lights to be helpful as well without any shadows,” directly confirming our assessment of its power and excellent illumination system.
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the negative feedback to provide a balanced picture. One user reported receiving their tool without the belt hook, which points to potential inconsistencies in what’s included with the “bulk packaged” version. More seriously, another user experienced a premature failure where the tool “got burned after several uses.” While this is a rare occurrence for a major brand like DEWALT, it’s a reminder that manufacturing defects can happen with any product. Finally, a point of contention for some is the “Made in USA” claim. One user noted the product they received was not made in the USA despite an image suggesting so. This is a common issue in global manufacturing where parts are sourced from various locations, and buyers concerned with country of origin should verify the specific unit they are purchasing.
How the DEWALT DCF885 Stacks Up Against Alternatives
The DEWALT DCF885 20V MAX Cordless Impact Driver is a fantastic tool, but the market is filled with strong competitors. Here’s how it compares to three popular alternatives, each of which might be a better fit depending on your specific needs and priorities.
1. DEWALT DCF787B 20V MAX Impact Driver
- 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.
The DCF787B is essentially the brushless sibling to the DCF885. The primary advantage here is the brushless motor, which offers greater efficiency, leading to longer runtimes on the same battery charge, and a longer overall tool lifespan with less maintenance. While its torque and speed specs are very similar to the DCF885, the brushless motor technology makes it a smarter long-term investment. If you are a professional who uses your impact driver daily, or a serious DIYer who values maximum runtime and durability, spending a little extra for the DEWALT DCF787B is a wise choice.
2. Milwaukee M12 FUEL SURGE 1/4 in. Hex Hydraulic Driver Kit
- FLUID-DRIVE hydraulic powertrain reduces metal on metal contact within the tool, delivering quieter operation, smoother performance and increased durability over a standard impact
- Longer sustained torque delivers similar drive times in application as most 12V impact drivers
The Milwaukee M12 FUEL SURGE represents a different technology altogether. It uses a hydraulic powertrain (FLUID-DRIVE) instead of a traditional metal-on-metal impact mechanism. The result is a tool that is up to 50% quieter in operation and produces significantly less vibration. While it has lower peak torque than the DCF885, it sustains its power for longer, driving small to medium fasteners just as quickly. This is the perfect alternative for electricians, cabinet installers, or anyone working in finished, occupied spaces where noise is a major concern. The kit also includes batteries and a charger, offering a complete package.
3. BOSCH GDX18V-1860CN 18V Two-In-One Impact Driver/Wrench
- TWO-IN-ONE CORDLESS IMPACT DRIVER/WRENCH: Provides one tool for use with bits and sockets
- SPEED CONTROL: Three speed and torque settings to dial back the tool for better control in different applications
The Bosch GDX18V-1860CN stands out for its incredible versatility. Its unique “two-in-one” bit/socket drive features a 1/4-inch hex holder for standard driver bits, with a 1/2-inch square drive integrated into it for sockets. This eliminates the need for flimsy socket adapters and makes it a fantastic tool for users who switch between driving screws and fastening nuts and bolts frequently, like mechanics or deck builders working with ledger bolts. It also offers modern features like connectivity options for tool customization. If versatility is your top priority, this Bosch model is in a class of its own.
Our Final Verdict: Is the DEWALT DCF885 the Right Impact Driver for You?
After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the DEWALT DCF885 20V MAX Cordless Impact Driver is a phenomenal tool that offers an exceptional blend of power, compactness, and user-friendly features. Its ability to sink large fasteners without breaking a sweat, coupled with its nimble size that allows access to tight spaces, makes it an incredibly capable workhorse. The brilliant tri-LED light system is a best-in-class feature that genuinely improves accuracy and ease of use in real-world conditions. For any homeowner, DIY enthusiast, or budget-conscious professional already on the DEWALT 20V MAX battery platform, this tool represents an almost unbeatable value.
While the brushed motor and isolated reports of quality control issues with bulk packaging are points to consider, they do little to detract from the tool’s core performance. It’s a proven design that has earned its reputation as a reliable and powerful driver. If you’re tired of struggling with a standard drill and want to experience the speed and power of a dedicated impact driver, this is an excellent entry point. It has the power to tackle demanding projects and the ergonomics to make doing so a pleasure. We wholeheartedly recommend it. If you’re ready to upgrade your toolkit and make your next project faster and easier, you can get the DEWALT DCF885 20V MAX Cordless Impact Driver and check the latest pricing today.
Last update on 2025-11-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API