Head-to-head · Best Impact Drivers

Craftsman CMCF800C1 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit vs DeWalt Atomic DCF850 20V MAX Impact Driver

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

DeWalt Atomic DCF850 20V MAX Impact Driver comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.0 vs 4.4). The gap is mostly about users needing maximum portability — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #3 in Best Impact Drivers

Craftsman CMCF800C1 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit

4.0

$59as of Jun 8

The Craftsman 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit offers solid performance with 1,460 in-lbs of torque and 2,800 RPM for DIY and home improvement tasks. Autoblog praised it as 'phenomenal, powerful, and durable' at $59, highlighting its quick-release chuck and LED light. Amazon reviewers noted it's 'perfect for mid- to light-duty work' and 'incredibly light for an impact driver.' However, professionals seeking more power may find it lacking. This kit includes two 1.5Ah batteries and a charger, making it ready-to-use right out of the box.

Strengths

— Delivers 1,460 in-lbs of torque and max 2,800 RPM/3,100 IPM for quick fastening applications
— Features quick-release hex chuck for easy one-handed bit changes
— Includes integrated LED light for improved visibility in dark work areas

Watch-outs

— Not suitable for heavy-duty professional use according to some reviewers
— Limited to 1,460 in-lbs torque which may not meet demands of all users

$59 · Buy at lowes.com Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Impact Drivers

DeWalt Atomic DCF850 20V MAX Impact Driver

4.4

$165.75as of Jun 7

The DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Impact Driver is praised as the most compact 18/20V impact driver tested, measuring just 3.97 inches long. While it performs slightly slower than the DCF887 in demanding tasks, reviewers note it still delivers plenty of speed and torque. The tool features a brushless motor, 3-LED light ring, and reversible belt hook. It's ideal for users who prioritize portability and maneuverability over maximum speed.

Strengths

— Most compact 18/20V impact driver tested
— 3-LED light ring around the collet
— Reversible belt hook

Watch-outs

— Slightly slower performance in tougher driving tasks
— No significant drawbacks noted but performance trade-off exists

$165.75 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Craftsman CMCF800C1 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit

The Craftsman 20V MAX Kit provides a good balance of torque and speed, but it's outperformed by the DEWALT DCF787D1 in terms of battery life and motor efficiency. Compared to the Craftsman V20 MAX combo set, it offers more torque and a better LED light, but lacks the versatility of the combo kit. While it's a solid mid-range option, it's not as powerful as the DEWALT models, making it better for light to moderate use.

DeWalt Atomic DCF850 20V MAX Impact Driver

The DEWALT ATOMIC is the most compact option in the group, making it ideal for tight spaces where other models like the DCF787D1 or Craftsman 20V MAX would be too bulky. While it sacrifices some speed and torque compared to the DCF787D1, it excels in portability and maneuverability. Unlike the Craftsman V20 MAX combo set, it's a single tool focused on compactness rather than versatility, making it perfect for users who prioritize space-saving design.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Craftsman CMCF800C1 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit	DeWalt Atomic DCF850 20V MAX Impact Driver
Voltage	20V MAX	20V MAX*
Torque	1,460 in-lbs	1825 in-lbs
Chuck Size	1/4 inch	1/4 in.
Max RPM	2,800	3,250 RPM
Impacts Per Minute	3,100	3800 IPM
Battery Type	2 x 1.5Ah V20 20V MAX Li-ion	Li-Ion
Motor Type	Brushed	Brushless
Weight	2.49 lbs	2.1 lbs

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