DEWALT DCF887 Review: 3-Speed Brushless Impact Driver
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Quick verdict: the DEWALT DCF887 is a compact, brushless 20V MAX XR impact driver that has become a job-site favorite. It delivers up to 1,825 in-lbs of torque, has three speed settings including a Precision Drive mode for small screws, and weighs about 2 lb bare. It drives long structural screws and lag bolts with ease, yet the low setting is gentle enough for cabinet hardware. It’s sold bare, so it’s ideal if you already own DEWALT batteries.
Best all-round impact driver
DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCF887B Impact Driver
★★★★½ 4.5 / 5
- Brushless motor, up to 1,825 in-lbs
- 3 speeds + Precision Drive
- One-handed 1/4 in hex chuck
- 3 LEDs with 20-second delay
An impact driver doesn’t replace a drill, but once you have one you’ll use it for almost every screw. The DCF887 is one of the most popular models on the market, and it’s the one many tradespeople carry daily. Here’s why, and where it falls short.
How We Reviewed the DEWALT DCF887B
We compared the DEWALT DCF887B against the specs and features that matter for this type of tool, using the manufacturer’s published specifications, the current Amazon listing data, and the same technical standards we use in our drilling guides. We didn’t receive a free sample, and the score reflects value for the buyer, not commission. See our editorial policy for how we write reviews.
DEWALT DCF887 Specifications
| Specification | DEWALT DCF887B |
|---|---|
| Platform | 20V MAX XR |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Max torque | 1,825 in-lbs |
| Speeds | 3: 0–1,000, 0–2,800 and 0–3,250 rpm |
| Impact rate | Up to 3,800 impacts per minute |
| Chuck | 1/4 in hex, one-handed loading, accepts 1 in bit tips |
| Lights | 3 LEDs around the chuck, 20-second delay |
| Weight (listing) | About 2 lb (bare) |
| Kit | DCF887B = tool only |
| Warranty | 3-year limited |
What We Like
Three speeds for real control
Many impact drivers have one trigger and full power. The DCF887 lets you choose. Speed 1 (Precision Drive) is for small screws and soft materials where you don’t want to strip heads or crack wood. Speed 2 handles general screws. Speed 3 unleashes full power for long screws and lag bolts.
Strong for its size
1,825 in-lbs is enough for 4-6 in structural screws, 3/8 in lag bolts and loosening stuck fasteners. Our guide on drilling stainless steel notes that a drill, not an impact driver, is the right tool for metal holes, but for driving fasteners the DCF887 is excellent.
Compact and light
At about 2 lb bare, it’s easy to use overhead and fits into tight spaces between studs and joists.
Shadow-free lighting
Three LEDs ring the chuck, so you don’t get the shadow you get from a single light below the head.
One-handed bit loading
Just push a 1/4 in hex bit into the chuck. It even accepts short 1 in bit tips.
What We Don’t Like
Loud
Like all impact drivers, it’s loud under load. Hearing protection is a good idea for long sessions.
Not for precise drilling
A hex chuck and impacting action make it a poor choice for accurate holes, especially in metal. Use a drill for that.
Speed selection by button
The speed button sits on the foot of the tool. It works, but it’s easy to forget which mode you’re in.
Tool only
No battery or charger with the DCF887B.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Up to 1,825 in-lbs of torque | Loud under load |
| 3 speeds with Precision Drive | Not for precise holes |
| Compact, about 2 lb bare | Speed button can be overlooked |
| 3-LED ring light | Battery sold separately |
| Part of the 20V MAX platform |
Which Speed for Which Job?
| Job | Speed |
|---|---|
| Cabinet hardware, small screws in softwood | 1 (Precision Drive) |
| Drywall screws, 1-1/4 to 2 in wood screws | 2 |
| 3 in deck screws | 2 or 3 |
| Structural screws, lag bolts | 3 |
| Loosening stuck fasteners | 3 |
DCF887 vs DCD771 Drill: Do You Need Both?
Yes, if you do much building. A drill like the DEWALT DCD771 drills accurate holes and runs hole saws. The DCF887 drives screws faster, with less wrist strain and less cam-out. Many DEWALT combo kits pair the two for this reason.
DCF887 vs Milwaukee M12 FUEL 3453
Read our Milwaukee 3453 review if you prefer the 12V platform.
Who Should Buy the DCF887?
- DEWALT 20V MAX owners who want a dependable impact driver.
- Deck builders, framers and remodelers.
- DIYers who drive lots of screws and want to stop stripping heads.
Tips
- Use impact-rated bits; regular bits can snap.
- Start in speed 1 for small screws, then step up.
- Pre-drill pilot holes in hardwood to avoid splitting.
- Pair it with a compact 20V battery to keep it light.
Battery Pairing
| Battery | Feel |
|---|---|
| 20V MAX 1.5–2.0Ah compact | Lightest and best balanced, ideal for most work |
| 20V MAX XR 4.0–5.0Ah | More runtime and more sustained power for lag screws |
Common Problems and Fixes
| Problem | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Screw heads strip | Too much speed or wrong bit | Use speed 1 or 2 and the correct bit size |
| Bits snap | Non-impact-rated bits | Use impact-rated bits |
| Bit falls out of the chuck | Worn bit or short shank | Use bits with a proper hex groove; check the chuck collar |
| Wood splits | No pilot hole near an edge | Pre-drill |
Buying Checklist
- Already on 20V MAX? The bare DCF887B is great value.
- Need precise control for cabinets? The 3-speed selector helps.
- Mostly heavy lags and structural screws? It handles them; consider a larger battery.
Frequently Asked Questions
5 quick answers from our editors
01How much torque does the DEWALT DCF887 have?
Up to 1,825 in-lbs.
02Is the DCF887 brushless?
Yes, it uses a DEWALT brushless motor.
03What does Precision Drive do?
In speed 1, it slows the tool and limits power for small screws and delicate materials, to reduce stripping and overdriving.
04Does the DCF887B include a battery?
No. “B” means bare tool.
05Can I drill holes with an impact driver?
You can use hex-shank bits for small holes in wood, but for accurate holes and metal, a drill is better.
Bottom Line
The DEWALT DCF887 is one of the best all-round impact drivers you can buy. It’s compact and powerful, and the three speeds make it gentle when you need control. If you’re on the DEWALT 20V MAX platform, it’s an easy recommendation.
Check the DEWALT DCF887B Price on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate, WellableMachine earns from qualifying purchases. Product details come from the manufacturer and Amazon and may change. Check the Amazon listing for the current price and availability. Specs from DEWALT product information. See the impact driver reference and the official DEWALT site.
