Makita DHP484 vs DHP485 UK: Which 18V Combi Drill to Buy?
The Makita DHP484 and DHP485 are two brushless 18V LXT combi drills that look similar, share the same length and take the same batteries. The difference is in power and weight. Here is how DHP484 vs DHP485 compares, and which one suits your work.
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Buy the DHP484 if you want the extra torque and a slightly faster hammer action for drilling into masonry and driving larger screws. Buy the DHP485 if you want a noticeably lighter drill for all-day screwing and second fix work, and can live with a little less power.
DHP484 vs DHP485 at a Glance
| Feature | Makita DHP484 | Makita DHP485 |
|---|---|---|
| Max torque (Makita) | 60 Nm | 50 Nm |
| No-load speed | 0 to 500 / 0 to 2,000 rpm | 0 to 500 / 0 to 1,900 rpm |
| Impact rate | 0 to 7,500 / 0 to 30,000 ipm | 0 to 7,500 / 0 to 28,000 ipm |
| Capacity: steel / wood / masonry | 13 / 38 / 13 mm | 13 / 38 / 13 mm |
| Hole saw capacity | 76 mm | 76 mm |
| Torque settings | 21 | 21 |
| Length | 182 mm | 182 mm |
| Net weight (body only) | 1.6 kg | 1.1 kg |
| Motor | Brushless | Brushless |
| Dust and water protection | XPT | XPT |
| Job light | Twin LED with after-glow | Twin LED with after-glow |
The Key Differences
Power
Makita lists the DHP484 at 60 Nm and the DHP485 at 50 Nm. You may see 54 Nm quoted for the DHP484 by some UK retailers, but either way it is the stronger of the two. Its hammer action is also slightly faster at up to 30,000 impacts per minute against 28,000, and its top speed is 2,000 rpm against 1,900 rpm.
Weight
This is the biggest practical difference. Makita lists the DHP485 at 1.1 kg body only, against 1.6 kg for the DHP484. Both are 182 mm long, so the DHP485 is not shorter, but it is much lighter in the hand, which you notice when working overhead or up a ladder all day.
What is the same
Both have brushless motors, all-metal gears, 2-speed gearboxes, 21 torque settings, twin LED job lights and Makita’s XPT dust and water protection. Both drill 13 mm in steel and masonry, 38 mm in wood, and take hole saws up to 76 mm. Both run on any Makita 18V LXT battery.
Availability
Makita has introduced newer brushless combi drills in some markets, and its New Zealand site now lists both of these as discontinued. Both are still widely sold in the UK, but stock and kit options can change, so check the listing before you buy.
The Two Makita Combi Drills
1. Makita DHP484RTJ (kit)
Best for more power60 Nm brushless combi drill with up to 30,000 ipm hammer action, 21 torque settings and XPT protection. This kit includes two 5.0Ah batteries and a charger in a Makpac case.
2. Makita DHP485
Best lighter drill50 Nm brushless combi drill at 1.1 kg body only, with up to 28,000 ipm hammer action, 21 torque settings and XPT protection. This listing includes one 5.0Ah battery.
Which Should You Buy?
- Builders and anyone drilling a lot of masonry: DHP484, for the extra torque and faster hammer action.
- Electricians, kitchen fitters and second-fix trades: DHP485, as the lighter weight helps on long days.
- Already own Makita LXT batteries: buy body only where you can and save on the kit.
- Comparing with DeWalt: see our DeWalt DCD796 vs Makita DHP484 comparison.
- Comparing more drills: see our best combi drills guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Makita DHP484 and DHP485?
The DHP484 is more powerful, with 60 Nm against 50 Nm on Makita’s figures and a slightly faster hammer action. The DHP485 is much lighter at 1.1 kg body only against 1.6 kg. Both are brushless, 182 mm long and take Makita 18V LXT batteries.
Is the Makita DHP485 powerful enough for masonry?
For general fixings, yes. It drills up to 13 mm in masonry with a hammer action of up to 28,000 impacts per minute. For larger holes in brick and concrete, an SDS drill is the better tool.
Do the DHP484 and DHP485 use the same batteries?
Yes. Both run on any Makita 18V LXT battery.
Are the DHP484 and DHP485 discontinued?
Makita’s New Zealand site lists both as discontinued, as newer models have been introduced. Both are still sold by UK retailers, but stock varies.
Related Guides
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- Best Combi Drills UK for Tradespeople
- DeWalt vs Makita vs Milwaukee UK
- Makita DTD153 vs DTD173 UK
- Makita Makpac vs Milwaukee Packout
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