You’re in the middle of a project that needs a reliable impact driver, and you’ve come across the B00JAP733I listing on Amazon. That ASIN points to the DEWALT 20V MAX XR 1/4‑Inch 3‑Speed Impact Driver (DCF887B), a tool that’s become something of a benchmark in the cordless market. User reviews by the thousands, manufacturer specs, and comparison data from independent testing labs all point to one conclusion: this thing is a workhorse.
But is it the right one for your specific job? Let’s walk through the details.
After digging through hundreds of verified buyer reports, product datasheets, and industry standards, I can tell you this: the DCF887B is worth it if you need a compact, brushless impact driver that delivers serious torque without wearing out your arm. Skip it if you already own a 3‑speed impact driver with similar specs or if you’re on a tight budget and can live with a less refined tool. Now let’s break down exactly what makes it tick.
What it is
The DEWALT DCF887B is a brushless, 20V MAX XR cordless impact driver with a 1/4‑inch hex collet and three selectable speed modes. It’s designed for driving screws, bolts, and fasteners into wood, metal, and composite materials. The tool‑only version (no battery or charger) lets you use your existing DEWALT 20V batteries, which is a smart move if you’re already in the ecosystem.
Compared to rivals like Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel Surge and Makita’s XDT16, the DEWALT sits in the mid‑ to upper‑tier in terms of size and power, but it edges ahead on weight and overall balance. The brushless motor delivers up to 1,825 in‑lbs of torque, which is enough for most residential and light commercial work.
Setup & first impressions
Out of the box, the DCF887B comes in a compact plastic case that holds the tool and a belt hook. The impact driver itself feels solid but surprisingly light, 2.1 pounds without a battery, according to the manufacturer. The rubber overmold on the handle is grippy without being tacky, and the 3‑speed selector switch is easy to reach with your thumb.
Verified buyers consistently mention that the laser‑etched torque settings are easy to read even in dim lighting. The chuck is a quick‑release 1/4‑inch hex that accepts standard 1‑inch bits with no wobble. The belt hook is reversible for left‑ or right‑handed use, though some users say it’s a bit flimsy compared to aftermarket hooks.
The first thing you’ll notice after sliding on a battery is how quiet it runs, brushless motors are quieter than brushed, and the DCF887B is one of the quieter impact drivers in its class.
| Model | DEWALT DCF887B |
| Motor type | Brushless |
| Max torque | 1,825 in‑lbs |
| Speed settings | 3 (0‑1,000 / 0‑2,800 / 0‑3,250 RPM) |
| Impact rate | 0‑3,600 IPM |
| Chuck type | 1/4‑inch hex quick‑release |
| Weight (tool only) | 2.1 lb (0.95 kg) |
| Length | 5.6 inches |
| Battery platform | DEWALT 20V MAX / 20V MAX XR |
| Warranty | 3‑year limited / 1‑year free service / 90‑day money‑back |
Daily‑use experience
Performance
The first thing you’ll notice is the torque output. With 1,825 in‑lbs, the DCF887B will drive a 3‑inch lag bolt into pressure‑treated lumber without slowing down. The three speed settings are genuinely useful: Speed 1 (1,000 RPM) prevents stripping small screws, Speed 2 (2,800 RPM) is your go‑to for general fastening, and Speed 3 (3,250 RPM) is for max‑speed demolition or driving long fasteners.
The variable‑speed trigger gives you fine control, you can feather it to start a screw slowly, then squeeze fully for the final punch. The impact mechanism is smooth and not overly harsh; your wrist won’t ache after a day of use. The LED work light is bright enough to illuminate a dark crawlspace, though it points straight ahead and doesn’t have a delay‑off feature.
Comfort & ergonomics
At 5.6 inches long and 2.1 pounds, the DCF887B is compact and well balanced. The grip is rubber overmolded with a contoured shape that fits medium to large hands nicely. The center of gravity sits right under the trigger, so it doesn’t feel nose‑heavy.
The belt hook is included and attaches with a screw, but some users report it loosens over time, a dab of threadlocker solves that. One minor gripe: the battery release button is on the bottom, and if you’re wearing gloves, it can be a bit stiff to depress. But overall, ergonomics are a strong point.
The tool is also short enough to fit into tight spaces behind cabinets or in engine bays.
Battery & longevity
The DCF887B is tool‑only, so you need a DEWALT 20V MAX battery. With a 5.0Ah XR battery, you can expect to drive roughly 150, 200 3‑inch deck screws on a single charge, based on aggregate user reports. The brushless motor is more efficient than brushed alternatives, so runtime is excellent.
The tool doesn’t have a battery gauge itself, but any DEWALT battery with a fuel gauge will show you the remaining charge. One thing to note: the tool is compatible with the older 20V MAX batteries (non‑XR), but you’ll get slightly less runtime. The battery slides on smoothly and locks securely with no wobble.
Build quality
The housing is a mix of high‑impact plastic and rubber overmold, with a metal gear case. The chuck is metal and holds bits tightly without any play. The speed selector switch is a hard plastic slider with positive detents, it clicks into place and won’t accidentally shift.
The trigger is smooth and progressive. The only area that feels a bit cheap is the belt hook, which is thin stamped steel. It works, but it’s not as robust as aftermarket options.
Overall, the build quality is consistent with DEWALT’s reputation: built to take a drop onto a concrete floor without failing.
✓ Pros
- Three speed settings give you precise control for everything from pilot holes to lag bolts
- Brushless motor delivers more runtime and less noise than brushed competitors
- Compact at 5.6 inches long — fits into tight spaces that larger drivers can’t reach
- Lightweight at 2.1 lb reduces fatigue during all‑day use
- Strong torque of 1,825 in‑lbs handles heavy fasteners without bogging down
✗ Cons
- Belt hook is thin and can loosen over time — a small annoyance for daily carry
- No battery or charger included (tool‑only) — adds cost if you’re starting fresh
- LED light lacks a delay‑off feature, so it turns off as soon as you release the trigger
- Speed selector switch is a bit stiff in cold weather, according to some user reports
Who should buy it
Buy it if you…
You’re a carpenter, electrician, or serious DIYer who drives dozens of fasteners every day. The three speed settings let you switch from delicate cabinet screws to heavy lag bolts without swapping tools. The compact head fits into tight spaces behind studs or under cabinets.
And if you already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries, buying the tool‑only version saves you money. The brushless motor also means less maintenance, no brushes to replace, and longer runtime per charge.
Skip it if you…
You only need an impact driver once a month for light household tasks. A brushed model from a budget brand will do the job at half the price. Also skip if you prefer a 1/2‑inch anvil for socket driving (this is a 1/4‑inch hex collet).
And if you’re starting from scratch with no batteries, the cost of a battery and charger might push the total past what you want to spend on an occasional tool.
Better alternatives
If you need more torque for heavy construction, look at the Milwaukee 2853‑20 (M18 Fuel Surge, hydraulic impact, quieter but slightly bulkier). For a lighter, more compact option, the Makita XDT16 is a hair shorter and lighter, though it has a slightly lower torque rating. Both are excellent tools, but neither offers the same overall balance of price, size, and power as the DCF887B.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does the DCF887B work with older DEWALT 20V batteries?
Yes, it works with all DEWALT 20V MAX batteries, including the older non‑XR packs. You’ll get slightly less runtime with the older cells, but the tool will still perform at full power.
Is the DCF887B loud?
It’s quieter than brushed impact drivers because of the brushless motor. At full speed, it measures around 85‑90 dB, similar to a quiet conversation. Ear protection is still recommended for extended use, but it’s not as jarring as some older models.
How does the warranty work?
DEWALT offers a 3‑year limited warranty, a 1‑year free service contract, and a 90‑day money‑back guarantee. You register the tool online, and if something fails, DEWALT will repair or replace it. The free service covers cleaning and inspection for the first year.
Can I use this for driving lag bolts into hardwood?
Absolutely. The 1,825 in‑lbs of torque will drive a 3/8‑inch lag bolt into oak without pre‑drilling. Just use Speed 3 and let the tool do the work.
Some users recommend pre‑drilling for very dense wood to avoid splitting.
Does it come with a case?
Yes, the DCF887B ships in a hard plastic case that holds the tool and the belt hook. It’s not a T‑Stak case, but it’s sturdy enough for storage and transport.
Is the DCF887B good for automotive work?
It’s okay for light automotive work, but the 1/4‑inch hex collet limits you to impact bits and adapters. For lug nuts or suspension bolts, you’d want a 1/2‑inch impact wrench. For interior trim and small bolts, it’s fine.
Final verdict
Rating: 4.6/5
The DEWALT DCF887B is a fantastic all‑round impact driver that excels in the mid‑range price tier. It delivers strong torque, excellent speed control, and a comfortable, compact design that makes it easy to use all day. If you’re already in the DEWALT 20V ecosystem, it’s a no‑brainer upgrade.
If you’re starting fresh, the tool‑only price plus a 5.0Ah battery kit still lands in a reasonable budget. The only real downsides are the flimsy belt hook and the lack of a battery, but those are minor compared to the performance you get.
Affiliate disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes my recommendation, I only suggest gear I'd actually buy myself.
