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Introduction
In today’s world, when it comes to selecting the right impact wrench for your needs, you have plenty of choices to consider. In this article, we will be discussing the differences between two popular impact wrench models, the DCF-900 from DEWALT and the Milwaukee 2863-20. Both of these models have their own unique features, and we will be comparing their performance and overall user experience to help you make an informed decision on which one to invest in.
Size and Design
The DCF-900 from DEWALT and the Milwaukee 2863-20 are quite similar in terms of size and design. The DEWALT model is slightly longer, while the Milwaukee is a bit more stout and stubby. However, both of them are compact and easy to handle, especially when working in tight spaces. The design of the triggers and the forward and reverse switches are also similar, making it easy to use both tools.
Modes and Switches
One area where there is a significant difference between the two models is the modes and switches. The DEWALT DCF-900 has large numbers and a simple mode-switching system that can turn off the light. However, it’s important to note that the rubber cover on the DEWALT‘s mode switch can get damaged if it comes into contact with penetrating lubricant.
On the other hand, the Milwaukee 2863-20 has smaller numbers and a harder-to-see mode switch. Additionally, its button is more difficult to press when compared to the DEWALT model. Both models do not handle exposure to penetrating lubricant well, so you might want to avoid letting them come into contact with such substances.
Power and Performance
When it comes to power and performance, both the DEWALT DCF-900 and Milwaukee 2863-20 are strong contenders. On paper, the DEWALT model boasts higher specs and torque than the Milwaukee, which is confirmed by various torque tests. However, the real-world experience of using these tools reveals a different story.
By using both tools in a practical situation – in this case, removing lug nuts from a semi-truck – it becomes apparent that the DEWALT DCF-900 is more hard-hitting, resulting in noticeable vibrations and movement during use. On the other hand, the Milwaukee 2863-20 is smoother and appears to be more efficient yet more comfortable to use.
It’s essential to note that using an adapter in this scenario might reduce the power and speed of the tools, so it’s not a perfect comparison. However, the difference in user experience using both impact wrenches is distinctive and worth considering when choosing between the two.
Comfort and Ease of Use
While the DEWALT DCF-900 might be the more powerful tool, it sacrifices comfort for that extra power. As previously mentioned, the significant vibrations and hard-hitting nature of the DEWALT can take a toll on your hand and arm during extended use. This is especially true when working on larger jobs, such as removing rusty suspension bolts from a vehicle.
On the other hand, the Milwaukee 2863-20 is smoother and more comfortable to use, despite being slightly less powerful than the DEWALT. For extended periods or larger projects, the smoother performance and reduced vibrations are more manageable on the user, making the job easier and less tiring.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the DEWALT DCF-900 and Milwaukee 2863-20 are quality impact wrenches with plenty of power and excellent specs. The DEWALT model may be more powerful overall, but it comes at the cost of increased vibrations and reduced comfort. Meanwhile, the Milwaukee 2863-20 might not be the most potent impact wrench, but it delivers a smoother and more comfortable user experience, especially on larger projects.
When making your decision, consider the type of work you’ll be performing, and which features are more important to you – power or comfort. No matter which model you choose, both will provide excellent performance and reliability for your tasks.
Now that you have a better understanding of the differences between the DEWALT DCF-900 and the Milwaukee 2863-20 impact wrenches, you can make a more informed decision on which one is better suited to your needs. We hope that this article has provided you with some clarity on the key features and performance aspects of both tools, and we wish you the best of luck in making your choice.
This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through links. Learn more on my Private Policy page.
My 5yr old milwaukee finally ate the bearing so im switching to dewalt. The biggest issue ive had with the m18 line is all the batteries vibrate themselves to death in a couple months of hard use. Now they disconnect when taking simple lug nuts off. Dewalt has a better battery vibration system.
The guy just doesn’t know how to hold an impact! DeWalt is way better, not surprised how they want to sabotage the best in world!
am a dwalt fan. only wish they were made in the U.S.A
I just bought the DCF900…..Im not a Milwaukee guy….that fan boy attraction is what drives me away from them.
Cheers from England!
DeWalt FTW!
i love how the vid shows the milly removing the nut quicker! that’s BS! THAT WILL NEVER HAPPEN! sick of these guy from america thinking there’s no other brand but there’s! they (TRY) promote there cars the same way…are they better?
no doubt this guy receives tools from milwaukee!!!
NOBODY LISTEN TOO THIS GIY…I own both! the dewalt extra power is what he can feel! in no area at all the milwaukee is better! he’s lying! lying! you will never catch a yank bag-out a the red brand! he only mentions the extra power of the dewalt! it’s better in many many other ways!
just from the beginning..is every yankee tool reviewer on milwaukee payroll? DONT EVEN COMPARE THESE! The dewalt will be current for the next (half) DECADE!
Great comparison! Straight to the point, real world comparison, no bullshit.
Are the Milwaukee’s still breaking after a couple uses? Fact, I’m a remodeling contractor, I use what works, I have at least 2 tools of almost every brand, my knack box has a half dozen broken Milwaukee tools lying at the bottom of it and my dewalt tools are all in the top layer of the box because they keep on working, just an observation
I work on semi’s everyday of the week. Chances are if the Milwaukee doesn’t break it loose you’re going to need more than another 50-100 lbs of break away unless it’s it perfect situation
The dewalt dcf900 is definitely the more powerful but it's 650quid in the UK when you can get the milwaukee hi torque for 330, just that reason alone made me go milwaukee
Thank you…. I'm a Dewalt guy…. you just convinced me on which tool to buy…
the digital button panel on the dcf900 is why i just bought a dcf899 instead … he last thing you want with greasy hands and around oils is a circuitboard let alone the vibrations it will get over its life … i see it as a more likely failure point over he dcf899 with a large slide for the settings
What about the HarborFreight ultra torque? how do you think that would do?
As a tech when it comes to power tools nothing beats Milwaukee quality and on top of that you get a awesome warranty
Whenever I see Milwaukee apparel up I …..
Totally different grip angles led to more vibration on the dewalt vs the milsuckie. Do a fair comparison!
Excellent review!!
Great videos of you at a choice between the DCF 900 and DCF 891. What would you personally buy
To be fair is not really fair to put 21700 cells on the Milwaukee vs 18650 on the DeWalt.
I want to start a project and I need a beast that is up to the task. I have a dewalt 3/8 and it is fantastic for screws and small bolts. I also have a milwaikee 12 that I use to carry it around as a toy. But today I am convinced that Dewalt is the beast that I am looking for. I want to feel the vibration in my arms. It's obvious that Dewalt doesn't have a comparison. I have friends who work in construction and they assure me that if I want reliability, go for a Dewalt. Thanks for the video
Question do you sell the tools after you review them? I see you have the GP2 kit for the DCF900.
This sort of real word use stuff is exactly what you want when buying these sorts of high torque impacts. Its all great knowing the dewalt gives you an extra 100lb/ft of nut busting torque in a perfect lab setting, but when you are undoing wheel nuts and suspension bolts on the daily, the Milwaukee is that little bit easier on the hands, which the lab tests just don't tell you about.
Great video as always, thanks for keeping it real.
They make 1/2 sockets in 33 mm as that's the proper size
I tried a DeWalt on a Honda harmonic balancer bolt, and it did nothing. The Milwaukee broke it loose. That DeWalt vibration is awful as well.
Man this hurts just by watching. 😂
This was actually super helpful information . I’ve been thinking about investing in the 1/2 drive impact and my worry was actually that the Dewalt didn’t have as much power as the Milwaukee version . I’ve had all Dewalt tools up until this point and I didn’t want to have to change over to Milwaukee over one tool due to power restrictions .
Thank you for all of your input on both tools and I appreciated the side by side comparison along with a little bit of insight on the actual specs on both tools .
Now look at the Milwaukee D handle impact. That thing is absolutely terrifying how strong it is.
Using the proper 33mm socket would help too
I know that this is to test the tool, but wouldn't a DCF897B be better for this specific job?