Which is better for cabinet and assembly work?

The 12V XTREME. It is 5.05 in long and 2.2 lb, and its Precision Drive modes reduce cam-out on small screws. The 20V kit is longer and heavier with a battery fitted.

Which has more power?

The 20V kit, but only slightly: 1,500 vs 1,450 in-lb. The bigger gap is speed, 2,800 RPM and up to 3,400 IPM on the 20V against no published figures for the 12V.

Is the 20V kit worth $17 more?

Yes if you own no DeWalt batteries. $99.00 at Home Depot buys two batteries, a charger and a bag; adding those to the $81.85 12V tool costs more than the difference.

Which lasts longer on a charge?

The 20V kit, because it ships with two 1.3 Ah batteries and a charger, so you swap and keep working. The 12V tool ships bare, so runtime depends on batteries you supply.

Do the batteries fit other DeWalt tools?

The 20V MAX batteries fit most of the DeWalt 20V line, including drills and saws. The 12V MAX batteries fit only the 12V MAX tools.

Which is better for deck screws?

The 20V kit. Higher speed and torque drive long screws faster, and the two included batteries cover a full session. The 12V is better suited to short screws and finish work.

Dewalt XTREME 12V MAX Impact Driver, Cordless, 1/4-Inch, Tool Only DCF801B vs DeWalt 20V MAX 1/4 in. Impact Driver Kit (DCF787C2)

Buy the 20V MAX kit (DCF787C2) if you own no DeWalt batteries: at $99.00 at Home Depot as of November 3, 2026 it includes two batteries, a charger and a bag. Buy the 12V XTREME (DCF801B) if you already have 12V MAX batteries and want a small driver: $81.85 at eBay as of November 3, 2026, tool only. The kit costs about $17 more but is the cheaper way into cordless if you are starting from nothing.

Today the Dewalt XTREME 12V MAX Impact Driver, Cordless, 1/4-Inch, Tool Only DCF801B costs $17.15 less at its best price.

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