Comparison:Makita DTD153 vs DTD154

Makita impact drivers are a staple in any pro’s toolbox. And within the 18V LXT range, two models are going head-to-head: the Makita DTD153 and the Makita DTD154. On paper, they’re nearly identical, brushless motor (BL), compact build, LED lighting, XPT protection against dust and moisture… in short, classic Makita engineering. But in real-world use, a few details make all the difference, especially if you’re on site regularly or need an 18V impact driver that can handle nonstop fastening without breaking a sweat. Let’s see where they stand apart.

Makita DTD153

MAKITA DTD153Z

Technical specifications

Voltage : 18 V (LXT Li-ion)

Maximum Torque : 170 Nm

No-Load Speed : 0 - 3400 rpm

Driving Modes : 1 mode

Impacts per Minute (IPM) : 0 - 3600

Weight (with battery) : 1,3 - 1,6 kg

Overall Length : 126 mm

Motor Technology : BL (Brushless)

XPT Protection (dust/water) : Yes

Built-in LED Lighting : Yes (dual LED)

Noise Level (Lwa) : 107 dB(A)

Maximum Vibration : 13,0 m/s²

Bolt Capacity (standard) : M5 - M16

Metal Screw Capacity : M4 - M8

Chuck Type : 1/4’’

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

  • Compact design (126 mm), ideal for tight spaces
  • High-performance, long-lasting BL motor
  • Strong tightening torque (170 Nm) suitable for most applications
  • Comfortable, non-slip Soft Grip handle
  • Dual LED lights for better visibility
  • Durable aluminum housing

Weaknesses

  • Single driving mode with no speed adjustment
  • Less control on delicate materials
  • Noticeably loud (107 dB) at full power
  • No dedicated mode for self-drilling screws
  • Less suited for heavy professional use

Indicative price

119$

Who is Makita DTD153 suitable for?

The Makita DTD153 is a compact and efficient 18V impact driver designed for regular work where reliability and simplicity come first. Its brushless (BL) motor ensures long service life, while its lightweight design makes it easy to handle, even during extended use.

Makita DTD154

Makita DTD154Z

Technical specifications

Voltage : 18 V (LXT Li-ion)

Maximum Torque : 175 Nm

No-Load Speed : 0 - 3600 rpm (3 speeds)

Driving Modes : 4 modes (including self-drilling screws)

Impacts per Minute (IPM) : 0 - 3800

Weight (with battery) : 1,3 - 1,6 kg

Overall Length : 117 mm

Motor Technology : BL (Brushless)

XPT Protection (dust/water) : Yes

Built-in LED Lighting : Yes (dual LED)

Noise Level (Lwa) : 107 dB(A)

Maximum Vibration : 12,5 m/s²

Bolt Capacity (standard) : M5 - M16

Metal Screw Capacity : M4 - M8

Chuck Type : 1/4’’

Advantages / Disadvantages

Strengths

  • 4 driving modes, including one for self-drilling screws
  • Slightly more compact and easier to handle (-9 mm)
  • Higher torque (175 Nm) for demanding tasks
  • Reduced vibration and improved precision
  • Electronic speed control for cleaner, more accurate work
  • Ideal for professional or heavy-duty use

Weaknesses

  • Higher price than the DTD153
  • Multiple settings that are less useful for occasional use
  • Same noise level (107 dB)
  • Requires a short adjustment period to get used to the different modes
  • Slightly variable battery life depending on power level used

Indicative price

149$

Who is Makita DTD154 suitable for?

The Makita DTD154 builds on the solid foundation of the DTD153 but goes further in terms of control and precision. Shorter (117 mm) and equipped with four driving modes, it adapts to almost any situation, from delicate assembly to heavy-duty metalwork. Its brushless motor delivers both power and responsiveness while optimizing energy consumption.

Comparison table: Makita DTD153 vs DTD154

CriteriaDTD153DTD154Verdict
Voltage18 V (LXT Li-ion)18 V (LXT Li-ion)Tie
Maximum Torque170 Nm175 NmDTD154Slight advantage (+3%)
No-Load Speed0 - 3400 rpm0 - 3600 rpm (3 speeds)DTD1547% faster and adjustable
Driving Modes1 mode4 modes (including self-drilling screws)DTD154More versatile
Impacts per Minute (IPM)0 - 36000 - 3800DTD154Slightly faster
Weight (with battery)1,3 - 1,6 kg1,3 - 1,6 kgTie
Overall Length126 mm117 mmDTD154More compact (-9 mm)
Motor TechnologyBL (Brushless)BL (Brushless)Tie
XPT Protection (dust/water)YesYesTie
Built-in LED LightingYes (dual LED)Yes (dual LED)Tie
Noise Level (Lwa)107 dB(A)107 dB(A)Tie
Maximum Vibration13,0 m/s²12,5 m/s²DTD154Slightly more stable
Bolt Capacity (standard)M5 - M16M5 - M16Tie
Metal Screw CapacityM4 - M8M4 - M8Tie
Chuck Type1/4’’1/4’’Tie

Recommended accessories

For Makita DTD153

MAKPAC 2 set

MAKPAC 2 set

Makita BL1850B-2 18V Li-Ion LXT 5.0 Ah battery - Charge indicator

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

Makita Impact Premier Bit Set E-03567

Makita Impact Premier Bit Set E-03567

For Makita DTD154

MAKPAC 2 set

MAKPAC 2 set

Makita BL1850B-2 18V Li-Ion LXT 5.0 Ah battery - Charge indicator

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

Makita Impact Premier Bit Set E-03567

Makita Impact Premier Bit Set E-03567

Real-life test: Makita DTD153 vs DTD154

He spends his days moving between job sites and the workshop, constantly screwing, dismantling, and adjusting. For this test, he assembled a series of custom-made furniture pieces and installed several metal hinges on hardwood and MDF structures, all within a typical workday.

Experience with the Makita DTD153?

Right from the first grip, the DTD153 inspires confidence. Compact and well-balanced, it slips easily between frames. Thomas appreciates the trigger’s smooth response: power builds up gradually, with no jolts. After several hours of continuous driving, fatigue remains minimal thanks to its light weight. On long screws, the power is definitely there, it drives straight and strong. The only downside: it lacks finesse on more delicate materials. Since there’s no speed adjustment, you have to control it manually with the trigger, which requires a bit of attention.

Experience with the Makita DTD154?

With the DTD154, Thomas immediately notices the difference. The electronic mode allows speed adjustment based on the material and that changes everything. On self-drilling screws, the dedicated mode prevents slipping and broken heads. The tool responds instantly, but without harshness. He works faster, with fewer corrections. The noise level is still there, but the overall feel is smoother and more precise. At the end of the day, he notes that his wrists feel slightly less strained, though he’s not sure whether it’s due to the balance or the electronic control.

User reviews

Makita DTD153

4.30/5

Power and Performance

90%

Precision and Control

82%

Ergonomics and Handling

92%

Versatility of Use

80%
Julien M.
I’ve been using it for six months for my renovation work. It’s compact, fits well in hand, and the power is more than enough for wood or metal. Too bad there’s no variable speed, but it’s still very reliable.
Sophie L.
I was looking for a lightweight, easy-to-handle driver, and this one does the job perfectly. Even after several hours, no arm fatigue. Excellent value for money.
Marc D.
Good machine, but a bit limited if you’re using it all day long. For professional use, I find it a bit “one-note” no settings, always the same speed. Otherwise, nothing to complain about in terms of durability.

Makita DTD154

4.77/5

Power and Performance

95%

Precision and Control

94%

Ergonomics and Handling

96%

Versatility of Use

97%
Alexandre P.
Excellent driver. The different modes are really useful depending on the material, especially to avoid damaging self-drilling screws. Compact, precise, and very well balanced.
Nathalie G.
A real pleasure to use, especially with the progressive trigger. I can feel the difference in control compared to my old DTD153. Only downside: it’s a bit pricier, but totally worth it.
Hugo T.
I use it every day on job sites. The DTD154 takes everything in stride, even in dusty conditions. The low-speed mode is great for small fastenings. It’s become my go-to tool.

Questions? We have the answers!

What’s the main difference between the Makita DTD153 and the DTD154?
The DTD154 features four driving modes (including one specifically for self-drilling screws) and delivers slightly higher torque (175 Nm vs. 170 Nm). The DTD153 is simpler, with only a single mode.
Yes, both models use the 18V LXT Li-ion platform, which is shared by most Makita tools. The batteries and chargers are therefore interchangeable.
The Makita DTD154 is better suited for professionals thanks to its multiple settings and greater precision across different materials.
The difference is small but noticeable: 175 Nm versus 170 Nm. What really sets the DTD154 apart is its electronic speed control, which makes it more efficient and versatile.
The DTD154 is shorter at 117 mm in length, compared to 126 mm for the DTD153 a small but useful advantage in tight spaces.

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