Comparison:Makita DHP484 vs DHP487

The Makita LXT 18V lineup includes several closely related models, among them the DHP484 and DHP487, two cordless hammer drills designed for both demanding DIY users and construction professionals. Compact yet powerful, they’re suitable for a wide range of tasks: assembling furniture, renovation work, and drilling into wood, metal, or masonry. However, certain technical differences may influence the choice, depending on whether you prioritize durability for heavy-duty use or lighter weight for more frequent, everyday applications.

Makita DHP484

Technical specifications

Max Torque : 65 Nm

Hard/Soft Joint Torque : 54 / 30 Nm

No-Load Speed (max) : 0–500 / 2000 rpm

Impacts per Minute (IPM) : 0–7 500 / 30 000

Wood Drilling Capacity : Ø 38 mm

Steel Drilling Capacity : Ø 13 mm

Masonry Drilling Capacity : Ø 13 mm

Torque Settings : 21 positions

Net Weight : 1,2 kg

Dimensions (L × W × H) : 182 × 79 × 261 mm

Sound Level (Lwa) : 99 dB(A)

Metal Drilling Vibration : ≤ 2,5 m/s²

Concrete Hammer Vibration : 8,0 m/s²

XPT Technology (Water/Dust Protection) : Yes

LED Light : Yes

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

High maximum torque of 65 Nm, suitable for heavy-duty applications
No-load speed up to 2000 rpm, faster than the average in its range
Impact rate up to 30,000 IPM, efficient in hammer mode
Drilling capacity in wood up to 38 mm
21 torque settings for greater precision
Robust design: metal gears and aluminum gear housing
Less vibration than the DHP487 in hammer mode (8.0 m/s²)
Built-in LED light and comfortable Soft Grip handle

Weaknesses

Heavier: 1.6 to 1.9 kg with battery
Larger dimensions (182 mm in length), less compact
High noise level: 99 dB(A), louder than the DHP487
Less suitable for prolonged use requiring lightness and maneuverability

Indicative price

149$

Who is Makita DHP484 suitable for?

The Makita DHP484 is an 18V cordless drill driver designed for intensive use. Equipped with a brushless motor (BL Motor) and an aluminum gear housing, it stands out for its durability and power, ideal for demanding work on masonry, wood, or metal.

Makita DHP487

Technical specifications

Max Torque : 40 Nm

Hard/Soft Joint Torque : 40 / 25 Nm

No-Load Speed (max) : 0–500 / 1700 rpm

Impacts per Minute (IPM) : 0–7 500 / 25 500

Wood Drilling Capacity : Ø 36 mm

Steel Drilling Capacity : Ø 13 mm

Masonry Drilling Capacity : Ø 13 mm

Torque Settings : 20 positions

Net Weight : 1,0 kg

Dimensions (L × W × H) : 164 × 81 × 248 mm

Sound Level (Lwa) : 94 dB(A)

Metal Drilling Vibration : ≤ 2,5 m/s²

Concrete Hammer Vibration : 10,5 m/s²

XPT Technology (Water/Dust Protection) : Yes

LED Light : Yes

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

Lightweight: 1.0 kg bare (1.4 to 1.7 kg with battery), less tiring for long sessions
Compact design (164 mm in length), ideal for confined spaces
Quieter: 94 dB(A), 5 dB lower than the DHP484
Good versatility with 20 torque settings
Supplied in a MAKPAC carrying case, convenient for storage and transport
Reversible belt hook, handy on job sites
Built-in LED light and comfortable Soft Grip handle

Weaknesses

Lower maximum torque: 40 Nm (–62% compared to the DHP484)
Slower speed: up to 1700 rpm
Lower impact rate (25,500 IPM)
More vibration when hammer drilling in concrete (10.5 m/s²)
Slightly reduced wood drilling capacity (36 mm vs. 38 mm)

Indicative price

99$

Who is Makita DHP487 suitable for?

The Makita DHP487 is an 18V cordless drill driver that’s compact and lightweight, designed for regular everyday tasks. It features brushless motor technology and hammer mode, while focusing on maneuverability and user comfort rather than maximum power.

Comparison table: Makita DHP484 vs DHP487

Criteria	DHP484	DHP487	Verdict
Max Torque	65 Nm	40 Nm	DHP484More powerful (+62%)
Hard/Soft Joint Torque	54 / 30 Nm	40 / 25 Nm	DHP484Higher torque
No-Load Speed (max)	0–500 / 2000 rpm	0–500 / 1700 rpm	DHP484Faster (+18%)
Impacts per Minute (IPM)	0–7 500 / 30 000	0–7 500 / 25 500	DHP484Faster in hammer mode
Wood Drilling Capacity	Ø 38 mm	Ø 36 mm	DHP484Slightly higher
Steel Drilling Capacity	Ø 13 mm	Ø 13 mm	Tie
Masonry Drilling Capacity	Ø 13 mm	Ø 13 mm	Tie
Torque Settings	21 positions	20 positions	DHP484Slight edge
Net Weight	1,2 kg	1,0 kg	DHP487Lighter (–17%)
Dimensions (L × W × H)	182 × 79 × 261 mm	164 × 81 × 248 mm	DHP487More compact
Sound Level (Lwa)	99 dB(A)	94 dB(A)	DHP487Quieter (–5 dB)
Metal Drilling Vibration	≤ 2,5 m/s²	≤ 2,5 m/s²	Tie
Concrete Hammer Vibration	8,0 m/s²	10,5 m/s²	DHP484Less vibration
XPT Technology (Water/Dust Protection)	Yes	Yes	Tie
LED Light	Yes	Yes	Tie

Recommended accessories

For Makita DHP484

2–13 mm keyless chuck

Makita multi-purpose drill bit set

Wall mount for Makita 18V tools

For Makita DHP487

Magnetic Bit Set – Makita 30 Bits + Magnetic Bit Holder

Makita BL1850B-2 Battery 18V Li-Ion LXT 5.0Ah – Charge Level Indicator

Wall mount for Makita 18V tools

Real-life test: Makita DHP484 vs DHP487

Regular drill user for various jobs: furniture assembly, shelf installation, drilling into wood and concrete.

Experience with the Makita DHP484?

Julien drills a series of holes into a cinder block wall to fix wooden battens. The power is immediately noticeable, the high torque delivers clean, fast drilling with little effort. After about thirty minutes of continuous use, the drill remains stable and efficient, though its weight begins to strain the forearm slightly. The noise level is quite noticeable, but the tool’s solidity and consistent performance make up for it.

Experience with the Makita DHP487?

The next day, Julien installs wooden shelves in an apartment. This time, he fully appreciates the drill’s compact size and light weight: it fits easily into tight spaces and remains comfortable to handle over long periods. Screwing is precise, quick, and the grip feels pleasant. However, when drilling into concrete, the difference compared to the DHP484 becomes clear, the DHP487 struggles a bit more and transmits more vibrations.

User reviews

Makita DHP484

4.05/5

Power and Performance

92%

Compactness and Ergonomics

74%

Noise and Vibration Levels

72%

Versatility (Professional / DIY Use)

86%

★★★★★

Pierre D.

Used on construction sites to drill through concrete and metal, the DHP484 has never let me down. The torque is strong, and the battery holds up well. A bit noisy, but remarkably reliable.

★★★★★

Sophie L.

I do a lot of DIY work, and I really appreciate the precision provided by the many torque settings. However, the weight becomes noticeable during extended use.

★★★★★

Hugo R.

Excellent drill for heavy-duty work, solid and efficient. The only downside is its size, which makes it a bit less convenient in tight spaces.

Makita DHP487

4.02/5

Power and Performance

73%

Compactness and Ergonomics

94%

Noise and Vibration Levels

81%

Versatility (Professional / DIY Use)

74%

★★★★★

Claire M.

Very light and pleasant to handle, perfect for furniture assembly and hard-to-reach areas. However, it quickly reaches its limits when drilling into concrete.

★★★★★

Julien P.

I use the DHP487 every day for small electrical and fastening jobs. The battery life is decent, and its compactness is a real advantage.

★★★★★

Nadia G.

A good drill for regular household use. Quiet and comfortable, though it lacks a bit of power for heavy-duty tasks.

Questions? We have the answers!

What’s the difference between the Makita DHP484 and DHP487?

The DHP484 stands out for its higher power (65 Nm vs. 40 Nm), faster speed, and better hammer performance. The DHP487, on the other hand, is distinguished by its more compact design, lighter weight, and quieter operation.

Is the Makita DHP484 suitable for heavy professional use?

Yes. Its high torque, aluminum housing, and metal gears, combined with an impact rate of 30,000 IPM — make it a tool built for demanding work on masonry, wood, and metal.

Is the Makita DHP487 suitable for regular DIY users?

Yes. Its compact size and easy handling make it ideal for everyday tasks and tight spaces, even though it delivers less torque than the DHP484.

Do both models use the same Makita 18V LXT batteries?

Yes, both the DHP484 and the DHP487 are compatible with Makita’s 18V LXT lithium-ion battery range.

Which Makita drill should you choose: the DHP484 or the DHP487?

Choose the DHP484 if you’re looking for power and durability for heavy-duty, intensive work. Go for the DHP487 if you prioritize lightness, comfort, and everyday precision.