Makita DHP485 vs DHP487 UK: Which Compact Combi Drill to Buy?
The Makita DHP485 and DHP487 are two compact 18V LXT brushless combi drills that weigh the same. The DHP487 is Makita’s sub-compact model, so it is shorter but less powerful. Here is how DHP485 vs DHP487 compares.
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Buy the DHP485 if you want more power for masonry and larger holes, with 50 Nm against 40 Nm and a faster top speed. Buy the DHP487 if you work in tight spaces, as it is 18 mm shorter, and mostly drive screws and drill small holes.
DHP485 vs DHP487 at a Glance
| Feature | Makita DHP485 | Makita DHP487 |
|---|---|---|
| Max torque | 50 Nm | 40 Nm |
| No-load speed | 0 to 500 / 0 to 1,900 rpm | 0 to 500 / 0 to 1,700 rpm |
| Impact rate | 0 to 7,500 / 0 to 28,000 ipm | 0 to 7,500 / 0 to 25,500 ipm |
| Capacity: steel / wood / masonry | 13 / 38 / 13 mm | 13 / 35 / 13 mm |
| Hole saw capacity | 76 mm | 51 mm |
| Torque settings | 21 | 20 |
| Length | 182 mm | 164 mm |
| Net weight (body only) | 1.1 kg | 1.1 kg |
| 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 DHP485 at 50 Nm against 40 Nm for the DHP487. The DHP485 also has a faster top speed (1,900 rpm against 1,700 rpm) and hammer rate (28,000 against 25,500 impacts per minute), and takes hole saws up to 76 mm against 51 mm.
Size
The DHP487 is Makita’s sub-compact model at 164 mm long against 182 mm for the DHP485. That 18 mm makes a difference between joists, inside cupboards and in other tight spots. Both weigh 1.1 kg body only.
What is the same
Both have brushless motors, 2-speed all-metal gearboxes, twin LED job lights, XPT dust and water protection, and drill 13 mm in steel and masonry. Both run on any Makita 18V LXT battery.
The Two Makita Compact Combi Drills
1. Makita DHP485
Best for more power50 Nm brushless combi drill, up to 28,000 ipm, 76 mm hole saw capacity, XPT and 1.1 kg body only. This listing includes one 5.0Ah battery.
2. Makita DHP487RTJ (kit)
Best for tight spaces40 Nm sub-compact brushless combi drill, 164 mm long, XPT and 1.1 kg body only. This kit includes two 5.0Ah batteries and a charger in a Makpac case.
Which Should You Buy?
- Electricians and plumbers working between joists and in cupboards: DHP487.
- General building and masonry drilling: DHP485.
- Need more power still: see our Makita DHP484 vs DHP485 comparison.
- Comparing more drills: see our best combi drills guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Makita DHP485 and DHP487?
The DHP485 is more powerful at 50 Nm against 40 Nm, with a faster speed and hammer rate. The DHP487 is shorter at 164 mm against 182 mm. Both weigh 1.1 kg body only.
Is the Makita DHP487 good for masonry?
For small holes, yes. It drills up to 13 mm in masonry. For regular masonry drilling or bigger holes, the DHP485 or an SDS drill is a better choice.
Do the DHP485 and DHP487 use the same batteries?
Yes. Both run on Makita 18V LXT batteries.
Related Guides
- All Tool Comparisons UK
- Makita DHP484 vs DHP485 UK
- Makita DJV182 vs DJV184 UK
- Best Combi Drills UK for Tradespeople
- DeWalt vs Makita vs Milwaukee UK
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