Like all tool brands, DeWalt has a range of models for any tool you need. When it comes to impact drivers, it’s easy for the lines to blur between similar features, price points, and compatibility. Buyers of the DeWalt brand often ask, what is the difference between the Atomic, the XTreme, and the Max? For anyone looking to purchase a DeWalt impact driver, it all comes down to the speed, power, and price you’re looking for.
The best DeWALT impact drivers reviewed
DeWalt ATOMIC 20V MAX Impact Driver
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Only two pounds without the battery – 1,825 in-lb of torque – Perfect for precision and brute-force drilling | – Some users cite a slight pause when swapping between trigger speeds |
Price: ~ $99
Buy it: Amazon | Home Depot |
If you’re looking for the most compact model you can get without sacrificing power, the DeWalt Atomic 20V model is your answer. Without the battery, it weighs in at around two pounds but still offers an impressive 1,825 in-lb in torque at a rotation speed of 3,250 RPM.
At an impact rate of 3,800 per minute, the Atomic model is reliable for getting the job done. Much like the Max Impact model, the Atomic is powered by a 20V rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack, which is, of course, compatible with the rest of the 20V range. In our opinion, the Atomic model is best optimized for precision jobs and brute-force drilling. Although it’s the most expensive model on our list, it’s still a great value, with its brushless motor and impressive runtime.
Features that stand out
- 3,800 impact rate
- Three-speed settings to customize power output
- Rechargeable 20V lithium-ion battery
DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX* Impact Driver
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – 3 separate drive modes for custom jobs – Multiple LED lights for high visibility – High power for its compact size | – It’s mostly suited for at-home jobs, as it has less power than other models |
Price: ~ $60
If you’re looking for the best value option, look no further. At just $60, the DeWalt Xtreme 12V impact driver comes with decent power at the lowest price on our list. This tool has a brushless motor and delivers up to 1,450 in-lbs of torque, perfect for at-home jobs. It gives users maximum control, ensuring the job is well done, even though it may not be the fastest.
The XTreme model also comes with 3 modes of operation, including Precision Drive, to allow for further control while working, according to DeWalt. The 3 LED light modes also keep your workspace highly visible, and the compact size makes it comfortable to handle and easy to store. Go with the XTreme model if you want something simple, reliable, and the best option for your wallet.
Features that stand out
- 1,450 in-lbs of torque
- 3 operating modes
- Precision Drive mode for maximum handling control
DEWALT 20V MAX* Impact Driver
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – 1,700 in-lbs of torque and 3,200 rpm – Variable speed trigger for better precision – Great for small time and heavy duty jobs | – Some users cite it’s difficult to remove the bits |
Price: ~ $85
Buy it: Amazon | Home Depot |
Last on our list is the DeWalt 20V MAX impact driver. This model is middle-of-the-road, priced at $85, and has almost as much power as the Atomic model, at 1,700 in-lbs. The Max has a variable speed trigger for different control and power options and a reliable brushed motor.
The Max runs at speeds up to 3,200 rpm, and this model is compatible, like the Atomic, with all of the DeWalt 20V tools. It has three LED lights for high workspace visibility like the XTreme and a variable speed trigger for more precise control. All in all, it’s a standard-size impact driver with mid-range power and price when considering the three options.
Features that stand out
- 3 LED lights for high workspace visibility
- 3,200 rpm speed with variable trigger
- Up to 1,700 in-lbs of torque
Final thoughts
At the end of the day, all of these DeWalt impact drivers are great options. If you’re looking for the best of the best in terms of speed, power, and run time, go with the Atomic 20V. If you’re looking for something for small, quick jobs and you have a tight budget, go with the Xtreme. Finally, if you need something in the middle lane that gets the job done but doesn’t have all of the top-of-the-line bells and whistles, go Max.
All of these drivers get the job done, but think about the workload ahead of you and the right tool for the challenge will be made clear.
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