Quick verdict
The Milwaukee 2953-20 is the better tool in every measurable way; the DeWalt DCF887 at a discount is the better deal for a DeWalt owner. Buy by platform, and on DeWalt consider the newer DCF860 before the DCF887 unless the discount is large.
Milwaukee 2953-20 M18 FUEL Impact Driver
The 2953-20 is the Gen 4 M18 FUEL impact driver: 2,000 inch-pounds in 4.6 inches with four modes and a tri-LED ring. It is shorter, stronger and newer than the DCF887, and it costs more.
DeWalt DCF887 XR impact driver versus Milwaukee 2953-20 M18 FUEL Gen 4 impact driver: torque, length, modes, lighting and price compared from published specifications.
The picks at a glance
| Tool | Best for | Score /100 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee 2953-20 M18 FUEL Impact Driver | Best Current Impact Driver | 9.2 | Check price |
| DeWalt DCF887 20V MAX XR Impact Driver | Best Value XR Impact Driver | 8.7 | Check price |
The picks, reviewed
Milwaukee 2953-20 M18 FUEL Impact Driver
The 2953-20 is the Gen 4 M18 FUEL impact driver: 2,000 inch-pounds in 4.6 inches with four modes and a tri-LED ring. It is shorter, stronger and newer than the DCF887, and it costs more.
Reasons to buy
- 2,000 in-lbs in a 4.6 inch body
- Four modes
- Tri-LED ring
- Current generation
Reasons to avoid
- Costs more
- M18 platform only
- More than small screws need
DeWalt DCF887 20V MAX XR Impact Driver
The DCF887 is the XR impact driver that built decks for years: brushless, three speeds, 1,825 inch-pounds per DeWalt and three LEDs. It is replaced by the DCF860 and now sells at a discount that makes it a strong value.
Reasons to buy
- Proven reliability
- Strong torque for lags
- Three LEDs
- Often discounted
Reasons to avoid
- Longer body
- Older design without a precision mode
- Less torque than the Milwaukee
Where these two differ
A tool from the last generation against a tool from this one. The DCF887 was DeWalt’s main impact driver for years and is now discounted; the 2953-20 is Milwaukee’s newest and strongest compact impact. The Milwaukee is shorter, stronger and has more modes. The DeWalt is cheaper and proven.
This comparison is based on the published specifications and manuals for both tools and on recurring owner feedback. We have not run either driver ourselves.
| Specification | DCF887 | 2953-20 |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | DeWalt 20V MAX | Milwaukee M18 |
| Torque | 1,825 in-lbs | 2,000 in-lbs |
| Modes | 3 speeds | 4 |
| Length | Compact | 4.6 inches |
| Generation | Previous | Current |
| Price | Discounted | Full |
Torque and modes
Both have more torque than a deck screw needs and both sink lags. The Milwaukee has more reserve and a self-tapping mode for metal. The DeWalt has three speeds and no slow-start mode, so composite decking takes a careful trigger finger.
Size and light
The Milwaukee is clearly shorter and fits brackets and joist bays the DeWalt does not. The DeWalt three LEDs around the chuck light a fastener from three sides, which remains one of the best lighting designs on any impact; the Milwaukee tri-LED ring does the same job.
Yard jobs this decides
A composite deck favors a tool with a slow-start mode, which is the Milwaukee lowest mode or the newer DeWalt DCF860. A cedar fence with lags is a draw. A metal shed favors the Milwaukee self-tapping mode. The platform decides the mower; both have full ranges.
Price
The DCF887 is discounted because the DCF860 has replaced it. For a DeWalt owner that makes it a strong buy for a build. The Milwaukee sells at full price as the current flagship.
Batteries and runtime
Both last a deck on a mid-size pack. Both platforms share packs with yard tools.
Bits and accessories
Both take quarter-inch hex bits in a one-handed chuck. Impact-rated torsion bits help the DCF887 start screws without a slow-start mode and help the Milwaukee avoid cam-out on composite. A magnetic sleeve for long deck screws fits both.
Noise and vibration
Both are loud hammer-and-anvil impacts and a deck on either calls for hearing protection. The Milwaukee lower modes are a little smoother in the hand; the DCF887 at full speed on lags is the louder of the two in owner descriptions. Neither is a hydraulic impact.
Setup tips
Start the DCF887 in its lowest speed on composite and ramp the trigger. On the 2953, use mode one for trim and hardware, mode three for lags and the self-tapping mode for metal roofing.
Common owner complaints
DCF887 owners mention length and no slow-start mode. 2953 owners mention price. Both are reliable, the DCF887 especially after years in the trade.
Which one should you buy
Buy the DCF887 if you are on DeWalt and find it well discounted; otherwise buy the DCF860. Buy the 2953-20 if you are on Milwaukee or starting fresh and want the best compact impact available.
Our verdict
The Milwaukee 2953-20 is the better impact driver and takes this comparison. The DeWalt DCF887 is the value pick on its own platform at a discount.
How we research
This comparison is built from the published specifications, manuals and warranty terms of both products and from recurring owner feedback. We have not run either product ourselves; where the makers do not publish a figure we say so rather than guess.
What to look for
Platform
Batteries in the shed decide it.
Discount
A deep DCF887 discount makes it the value buy on DeWalt.
Size
The Milwaukee is clearly shorter.
Modes
Four on the Milwaukee including self-tapping.
Our verdict
The Milwaukee 2953-20 is the better tool in every measurable way; the DeWalt DCF887 at a discount is the better deal for a DeWalt owner. Buy by platform, and on DeWalt consider the newer DCF860 before the DCF887 unless the discount is large.
FAQs
For torque, yes. For size and modes it is behind the 2953. At a discount it remains a fine deck tool.
The Milwaukee at 4.6 inches by a clear margin.
The DCF860 at similar prices; the DCF887 if discounted heavily.
The Milwaukee, with more torque, though both sink them.
Related guides
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Milwaukee 2953-20 vs Milwaukee 2853-20: What Gen 4 Changes Over Gen 3
DeWalt DCF887 vs Milwaukee 2853-20: Two Discounted Flagships From the Last Generation
DeWalt DCF850 vs Makita XDT19Z: ATOMIC Compact Against the Four-Speed LXT
DeWalt DCF850 vs Milwaukee 2853-20: ATOMIC Compact Against the Discounted M18 FUEL
DeWalt DCF860 vs Makita XDT19Z: XR Precision Drive Against Four-Speed Quick-Shift
DeWalt DCF860 vs Milwaukee 2853-20: New XR Impact Against the Discounted M18 FUEL Gen 3
