Comparison:Makita DHP481 vs DHP486

In the world of professional 18V cordless drills, two Makita models stand out: the DHP481 and the DHP486. Designed for heavy-duty drilling and screwing, these tools cater both to demanding tradespeople and experienced DIYers. Both are equipped with Brushless motors and compatible with 18V LXT batteries, integrating the brand’s latest technologies. Yet, despite their technical similarities, they meet slightly different needs.

Makita DHP481

Technical specifications

Max. tightening torque (hard) : 115 Nm

Max. tightening torque (soft) : 60 Nm

No-load speed (max) : 2100 rpm

No-load speed (1st gear) : 0 - 500 rpm

Max. impact rate : 31500 ipm

Net weight (without battery) : 2.7 kg

Overall length : 205 mm

Max. drilling capacity in wood : 76 mm

Max. drilling capacity in concrete : 16 mm

Motor type : Brushless

Dust/water protection (XPT) : Yes

Electric brake : No

Chuck type : Metal

Built-in LED light : Yes

Battery charge indicator : Yes

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

High torque: 115 Nm for driving into hard materials
XPT technology: protection against water and dust, suitable for demanding environments
Precise torque adjustment: 21 settings + drilling + hammer drilling
Built-in LED light: improves visibility in dark areas
Side handle included: enhances stability and safety during use
18V LXT compatibility: interchangeable batteries with other Makita tools

Weaknesses

Bulky size: 205 mm long, less maneuverable in confined spaces
No electric brake: reduced precision for instant stops
Heavy weight: 2.7 kg without battery, tiring for prolonged use
Standard chuck: not keyless, less ergonomic
Slightly outdated technology compared to the newer DHP486 generation

Indicative price

169$

Who is Makita DHP481 suitable for?

The DHP481 is designed for construction professionals and experienced DIYers who need a powerful, durable, and versatile tool. Its brushless motor, high torque (115 Nm), and hammer function make it ideal for heavy-duty tasks, even in tough conditions, thanks to XPT protection.

Makita DHP486

Technical specifications

Max. tightening torque (hard) : 130 Nm

Max. tightening torque (soft) : 65 Nm

No-load speed (max) : 2100 rpm

No-load speed (1st gear) : 0 - 550 rpm

Max. impact rate : 31500 ipm

Net weight (without battery) : 2.3 à 2.7 kg

Overall length : 178 mm

Max. drilling capacity in wood : 76 mm (bit) / 152 mm (hole saw)

Max. drilling capacity in concrete : 16 mm

Motor type : Brushless

Dust/water protection (XPT) : Yes

Electric brake : Yes

Chuck type : All-metal keyless

Built-in LED light : Yes

Battery charge indicator : Yes

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

Higher torque: up to 130 Nm, i.e. +13% compared to the DHP481
Ultra-compact design: only 178 mm long, ideal for confined spaces
Built-in electric brake: fast chuck stop for greater control
All-metal keyless chuck: convenient for quick bit changes
Optimized weight: from 2.3 to 2.7 kg depending on the battery used
XPT technology: still present for demanding jobsite use
Reinforced aluminum housing: improved durability
Additional accessories: depth stop and belt hook

Weaknesses

Generally higher price: due to the technical improvements
Slight speed gain only on the first gear
Logical evolution but not a real revolution for those who already own the DHP481

Indicative price

192$

Who is Makita DHP486 suitable for?

Compact yet powerful, the DHP486 is aimed at mobile tradespeople and demanding technicians who seek power, precision, and durability in a reduced format. With its 130 Nm torque, electric brake, and reinforced design, it excels on complex or confined worksites. Compatible with 18V LXT batteries, it is also a great choice for users who are already equipped.

Comparison table: Makita DHP481 vs DHP486

Criteria	DHP481	DHP486	Verdict
Max. tightening torque (hard)	115 Nm	130 Nm	DHP486More powerful (+13%)
Max. tightening torque (soft)	60 Nm	65 Nm	DHP486Slight advantage (+5 Nm)
No-load speed (max)	2100 rpm	2100 rpm	Tie
No-load speed (1st gear)	0 - 500 rpm	0 - 550 rpm	DHP486Faster at low speed
Max. impact rate	31500 ipm	31500 ipm	Tie
Net weight (without battery)	2.7 kg	2.3 à 2.7 kg	DHP486Lighter (up to –15%)
Overall length	205 mm	178 mm	DHP486More compact (–13%)
Max. drilling capacity in wood	76 mm	76 mm (bit) / 152 mm (hole saw)	DHP486More versatile (hole saw)
Max. drilling capacity in concrete	16 mm	16 mm	Tie
Motor type	Brushless	Brushless	Tie
Dust/water protection (XPT)	Yes	Yes	Tie
Electric brake	No	Yes	DHP486
Chuck type	Metal	All-metal keyless	DHP486Keyless chuck
Built-in LED light	Yes	Yes	Tie
Battery charge indicator	Yes	Yes	Tie

Recommended accessories

For Makita DHP481

Makita Tool Set (104 pieces)

Makita 66-piece accessory set in MakPac case

Makita carrying case for tools and accessories

For Makita DHP486

Wall mount for Makita 18V tools

Additional Makita 18V Li-Ion battery

2–13 mm keyless chuck

Real-life test: Makita DHP481 vs DHP486

David M., 42, has been a self-employed carpenter for over 15 years. Based in a rural area, he works on a wide variety of projects: new builds, timber extensions, roof renovations, and interior fittings. Often working alone or with an apprentice, he relies on reliable, powerful, and versatile equipment to save time without compromising quality.

Experience with the Makita DHP481?

David has been using the DHP481 on his jobsites for more than two years. Just this week, it once again proved its performance—driving 90 mm screws into treated pine as well as drilling into concrete blocks. Powerful and stable with both hands thanks to its side handle, it holds up even under intensive use. The only downside: at 2.7 kg, the weight becomes noticeable after several hours, especially when working overhead. Reliability, however, has been flawless despite dust and debris.

Experience with the Makita DHP486?

On a recent interior project, David tested the DHP486. More compact, it fits easily into corners and under ceilings. The electric brake improves precision, especially for repetitive screwdriving in plasterboard. He noticed quicker responsiveness at startup, particularly at low speed. Less fatiguing over time, despite a weight similar to the DHP481. The belt hook, barely noticed at first, quickly proved useful by the end of the job.

User reviews

Makita DHP481

3.8/5

Power and torque

70%

Compactness and handling

75%

Versatility of applications

70%

Value for money

80%

★★★★★

Marc D. – Renovation craftsman

Used daily on site for over a year, it has never let me down. The torque is really powerful, even in concrete. A bit heavy at the end of the day.

★★★★★

Claire S. – Regular DIYer

Very robust, but I struggled a bit at first with the weight. On the other hand, having so many torque settings for screwdriving is really convenient.

★★★★★

Yann P. – Electrician

Good, reliable machine, even if it’s starting to feel a bit dated. Too bad it doesn’t have a motor brake—it’s something I miss for certain precise tasks.

Makita DHP486

4.3/5

Power and torque

90%

Compactness and handling

90%

Versatility of applications

85%

Value for money

90%

★★★★★

Sébastien T. – Professional carpenter

Super compact and powerful at the same time. I can work inside furniture without struggling. The electric brake is a real plus.

★★★★★

Nadia K. – Advanced home user

I often use it for renovating my house, and I’ve got no complaints about handling. The keyless chuck really saves time.

★★★★★

Julien M. – Self-employed handyman

Good balance between performance and handling. It replaced my old model without regret, even if the price stings a little.

Questions? We have the answers!

What is the difference between the Makita DHP481 and the DHP486?

The DHP486 is a newer and more compact version of the DHP481. It delivers slightly higher torque (130 Nm vs 115 Nm), features a built-in electric brake, an all-metal keyless chuck, and a shorter body (178 mm vs 205 mm). The DHP481, however, remains very robust for heavy-duty use.

Which of these Makita models is more powerful?

The Makita DHP486 is more powerful, with a maximum tightening torque of 130 Nm compared to 115 Nm for the DHP481. This translates into better performance in hard materials.

Which model is best suited for drilling into concrete?

Both models reach 31,500 blows per minute in hammer mode and can drill up to 16 mm in concrete. For prolonged use or in hard-to-reach areas, the more compact DHP486 with its electric brake offers better handling.

Are these drills compatible with Makita 18V batteries?

Yes, both drills are compatible with Makita 18V LXT batteries, the brand’s standard platform. No adapter is required.

Is there a non-hammer version of these models?

Yes, Makita offers non-hammer versions in the same 18V LXT range, such as the DF481 or the DDF486, which retain similar features but without the hammer function. These models are better suited for screwdriving and drilling in wood or metal only.