DeWalt vs Makita Impact Drivers: Which One Should I Get?

Hey guys, I'm in the market for a new impact driver. I've been using a cheap no-name one for years and it's finally giving up. I've narrowed it down to the DeWalt 887 and the Makita XDT16. Both get great reviews. I do mostly DIY stuff - furniture, shelves, some decking. But I want something that'll last. Which one would you pick and why?

As a contractor, I've used both extensively. The DeWalt 887 is a workhorse, very reliable and has a nice balance. The Makita XDT16 is lighter and has a better mode selector, but the chuck on the DeWalt feels sturdier. If you're doing heavy framing, go DeWalt. For general DIY and some lighter pro use, either will serve you well. But if you plan to keep it for years, I'd lean Makita - their batteries are better and the tool feels more refined.

Budget wise, you can't go wrong with DeWalt 887, especially when it's on sale. I've seen kits with two batteries for not much more than the bare Makita. Plus, the 887 is a proven design - no gimmicks. I've had mine for 3 years and it's still going strong. For DIY, it's more than enough. Don't overpay for features you won't use.

I'll throw in my 2 cents. I run a crew and we've got both. The Makita is a bit more compact and has that quick-shift mode that I like for precise work. But honestly, the DeWalt is indestructible - it's been dropped, abused, and still works. For your purpose, I'd say get whichever feels better in your hand. Go to the store and try them out. You can't go wrong with either. But if you're planning to expand your cordless ecosystem, consider which brand you want to invest in - that's the real decider.