Makita DTW285 vs DTW300 UK: Which 18V Impact Wrench to Buy?
The Makita DTW285 and DTW300 are both 18V LXT brushless impact wrenches with a 1/2 inch square drive. The DTW300 is the newer model and is more powerful. Here is how DTW285 vs DTW300 compares.
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Buy the DTW300 for most jobs. Makita lists it at 330 Nm fastening and 580 Nm nut-busting torque, with four speed settings, automatic stop modes, and a lighter body. The DTW285 is only worth choosing if you find it noticeably cheaper and mainly need moderate torque.
DTW285 vs DTW300 at a Glance
| Feature | Makita DTW285 | Makita DTW300 |
|---|---|---|
| Square drive | 1/2 inch | 1/2 inch |
| Max fastening torque | 280 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Nut-busting torque | 400 Nm (retailer figure) | 580 Nm |
| No-load speed | Up to 2,800 rpm (3 speeds) | Up to 3,200 rpm (4 speeds) |
| Impacts per minute | Up to 3,500 | Up to 4,000 |
| Modes | 3 speed settings | 4 speed settings and 6 modes, including forward and reverse auto-stop |
| Bolt capacity | Not compared | M10 to M20 standard bolts |
| Weight (body only) | About 1.5 kg (retailer figure) | 1.2 kg |
| Dust and water protection | Not compared | XPT |
The Key Differences
Power
Makita lists the DTW300 at 330 Nm fastening torque and 580 Nm nut-busting torque. UK retailers list the DTW285 at 280 Nm fastening and 400 Nm nut-busting. For stubborn bolts, wheel nuts and fixings in steelwork, the DTW300 has a clear advantage.
Speed and modes
The DTW300 has four speed settings, from up to 1,000 rpm on Lo to up to 3,200 rpm on Max, plus six modes including automatic stop in forward and reverse, which helps stop bolts spinning off or being overtightened. The DTW285 has three speed settings.
Weight and size
Makita lists the DTW300 at 1.2 kg body only, lighter than the DTW285 at about 1.5 kg on retailer figures. The DTW300 also has Makita’s XPT dust and water protection.
The Two Makita Impact Wrenches
1. Makita DTW300Z (body only)
Best all-round impact wrench330 Nm fastening and 580 Nm nut-busting torque, four speed settings, six modes including auto-stop, XPT protection and 1.2 kg body only.
2. Makita DTW285Z (body only)
Older, lower-torque option1/2 inch brushless impact wrench with 280 Nm fastening torque and three speed settings. Body only, no battery or charger.
Which Should You Buy?
- Groundworkers, steel fixers and plant fitters: DTW300, for the higher nut-busting torque.
- Most trades buying new: DTW300, as it is more powerful and lighter.
- Driving screws rather than bolts: an impact driver suits better, see our Makita DTD153 vs DTD173 comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Makita DTW300 more powerful than the DTW285?
Yes. Makita lists the DTW300 at 330 Nm fastening and 580 Nm nut-busting torque. UK retailers list the DTW285 at 280 Nm fastening and 400 Nm nut-busting.
What drive size are the DTW285 and DTW300?
Both have a 1/2 inch square drive, so they take standard 1/2 inch impact sockets.
Do the DTW285 and DTW300 use the same batteries?
Yes. Both run on Makita 18V LXT batteries.
Related Guides
- All Tool Comparisons UK
- Makita DTD153 vs DTD173 UK
- Makita DHS680 vs DSS611 UK
- Makita DHR242 vs DHR243 UK
- DeWalt vs Makita vs Milwaukee UK
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