Which is better for removing lug nuts?

Both handle passenger-car lug nuts, typically torqued to 80-150 ft-lbs. The Makita has far more reserve at 1,180 ft-lbs nut-busting torque for rusted or over-torqued nuts. The DeWalt's 450 ft-lbs breakaway is enough for most cars but not for heavy trucks.

Which one is better for engine and suspension work?

The DeWalt is the better fit in tight spaces at 2.4 lbs and 5 in long. The Makita's 740 ft-lbs suits suspension and truck work, but its 8 lbs with battery and 9 in length make it harder to reach into engine bays.

Is the Makita worth it if I have no Makita batteries?

Factor in the cost of Makita 18V LXT batteries and a charger, since the XWT08Z is tool only. The DeWalt kit at $265.50 at Walmart as of November 4, 2026 includes two 5.0 Ah batteries and a charger, so it can be cheaper overall for a first-time buyer.

Both use brushless motors, which outlast brushed motors. The Makita's higher torque means it works less hard on heavy bolts, but the DeWalt's kit batteries and charger are included, so you are not buying into a second battery platform.

How do the prices compare?

The Makita is $259.99 at eBay as of November 4, 2026, tool only. The DeWalt kit is $265.50 at Walmart as of the same date, with two batteries and a charger. The DeWalt has ranged from $265.50 to $299.00 since October 29, 2026.

Which has better speed control?

The DeWalt has 4 settings, including Precision Wrench control and a Timber Screw mode. The Makita has 3 electronic speeds. The DeWalt gives finer control for light fastening; the Makita's speeds are aimed at high-torque work.

DeWalt DCF921P2 ATOMIC 20V MAX* 1/2 in. Cordless Impact Wrench with Hog Ring Anvil Kit vs Makita XWT08Z 18V LXT

Buy the DeWalt DCF921P2 if you want a compact, complete kit: 2.4 lbs, two 5.0 Ah batteries and a charger, with 450 ft-lbs of breakaway torque for lug nuts and mid-size fasteners. Buy the Makita XWT08Z if you need real high-torque work: 740 ft-lbs fastening and 1,180 ft-lbs nut-busting, but it is a bare tool at about 8 lbs with a battery. The Makita is slightly cheaper at $259.99 at eBay as of November 4, 2026, versus $265.50 at Walmart for the DeWalt kit, but the DeWalt price includes batteries and a charger.

Today the DeWalt DCF921P2 ATOMIC 20V MAX* 1/2 in. Cordless Impact Wrench with Hog Ring Anvil Kit costs $41.17 less at its best price.

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