An impact driver adds extra force when driving in screws, making it a suitable tool for DIY and home repair enthusiasts. A wide variety of models are available from brands like Milwaukee and Makita, but with so many different feature sets and sizes, it can be hard to choose the right one for you.
In this article, we will take a look at 13 different impact drivers and find out which ones are worth your time. We'll be grading them on the four criteria below.
Just which of these tools will get the mybest seal of approval? If you're in the market for an impact driver, read on, and don't skip our buying guide, which will tell you what to look for when choosing one.
Before joining mybest, Ryusuke Kuranishi worked at a home renovation firm, where he was responsible for purchasing housing equipment, materials, as well as sales. He's also designed and developed his own wood decks and picnic tables. Currently, utilizing his expertise, Ryusuke is the editor for DIY products and tools at mybest, writing articles from a user-friendly perspective.
First, we looked at the torque and rotation speed of each impact driver, which are essential qualities. The breakdown for our scoring requirements is as follows.Torque: 20 points possibleOver 840 in-lbs. scored 20 pointsUnder 442 in-lbs. got 15 pointsWe measured how long it took to fully drive a 17-millimeter M12 bolt (roughly equivalent to a 5/8-inch long, 1/2-inch diameter bolt) and checked the torque with a torque wrench. We defined minimum torque as 442 in-lbs. as this is required to fully secure bolts onto construction material. Products that were able to apply over 840 in-lbs. and remove lug nuts on cars were given full points. Impact drivers aren't intended for loosening lug nuts, but we decided it would be convenient if they could be used temporarily in place of an impact wrench.Time to drive a screw: 40 points possibleOne second or less got a score of 40 pointsWithin 1.5 seconds scored 30 pointsOver 1.5 seconds got 20 pointsWe took the average of how long it took to drive in a three-and-a-half-inch long, #10 screw on a two-by-four wood plank over five tries. Each product was tested while fully charged and on its highest setting for those with speed or mode setting options. We considered a time of 1.5 seconds to be the maximum in terms of a smooth workflow, with under one second being exceptionally fast.Time to secure a bolt: 40 points possibleUnder two seconds was awarded 40 pointsUnder three seconds got 30 pointsOver three seconds got 25 pointsWe measured the time it took to fully secure an M12, 40-millimeter wheel bolt (approximately one and 9/16 inches long) into a two by four. Each product was tested while fully charged and on its highest setting for those with speed or mode setting options. We considered a time of three seconds to be the maximum in terms of a smooth workflow, with under two seconds being exceptionally fast.
Even an impact driver with good specs can't claim to be the best if it doesn't feel convenient to use. This is why we asked five men and women, all comfortable with DIY projects, to test these products. They rated each of the four criteria and how they affected the products' ease of use based on their own subjective experiences.Based on the experience while measuring torque and rotation speed of driving screws into two-by-fours. We scored four aspects of each product based on the following.Weight: Was it tiring to use over long periods?Grip: Did it feel comfortable to hold?Switch control: Was it easy to use the switches and triggers?Rotation stability: Did the body vibrate or shake while driving in screws? Did the torque adjust appropriately?
We also tested features which added to efficiency and user-friendliness based on the following eight points, with a maximum score of 100 points total.Short head length, to make it easy to work in tight spaces: 30 points totalA driver with a head 5.25 inches or shorter was awarded 30 points.Under 6 inches got 20 points.Over 6 inches was given 10 points.Speed/mode settings: 30 points totalProducts with settings to limit torque or rotation speed and settings to select the type of screw and material worked on got 30 points.Products with settings to limit torque or rotation speed only got 25 points.If it had no customizable settings it got 15 points.LED light quality: 15 points possibleLED lights over 600 lux, which brightly illuminated our work, scored 15 points.Slightly dim LED lights under 600 lux got 13 points.Battery indicator: 5 points possibleProducts with a battery indicator were given 5 points.Products with no indicator got no points.Belt hook: 5 points possibleIf it had a belt hook it got 5 points.A wrist strap was 3 points.If it had no strap or hook, it got no points.Quick-change hex: 5 points possibleIf it allows for applying and removing bits with one hand it got 5 points.Allows for either applying or removing bits with one hand (but not the other) was 3 points.Allows for neither: no points.Magnetic plate: 5 points possibleProducts with a magnetic plate for attaching screws and bits to the body got 5 points.Not included: 0 points.Bit holder: 5 points possibleIncludes a bit holder for storing bits: 5 points.No bit holder, no points.
Finally, we looked at battery life, as it's a lot easier to get a job done with an impact driver that doesn't need to be charged halfway through. We awarded points based on how many screws and bolts each model could tighten per charge.We counted how many screws and bolts each model could tighten with its included battery until the charge ran out completely. For models that didn't have a battery included, we used ones sold separately by the same makers. Values are given by how many screws or bolts a battery could handle per 1.0Ah of current. A perfect score was given to products that could tighten at least 350 deck screws and wheel bolts per charge, as that's generally the amount needed to build a 100-square-foot wooden deck.Tightening screws: 50 points possibleIf the driver could do 170 to 240 screws per charge, it was awarded the maximum 50 points.100 to 170 screws: 40 points70 to 100 screws: 35 points40 to 70 screws: 25 pointsTightening bolts: 50 points possibleIf the driver could do 200 or more bolts per charge, it was awarded the maximum 50 points.Over 100 bolts: 40 pointsOver 70 bolts: 30 pointsOver 60 bolts: 25 pointsOver 50 bolts: 20 pointsOver 40 bolts: 15 pointsAt least 30 bolts: 10 points
All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest
Table of Contents
Impact drivers are invaluable tools for pros on the job as well as individuals who enjoy DIY. Before getting into the products, we should be clear about their intended jobs.
The main appeal of impact drivers is that they have a built-in device which adds extra force when driving screws. This makes the task of fastening hard materials for things like wooden decks or house frames much quicker and easier than it would be otherwise.
The tip, called a bit, is interchangeable, which makes them compatible with bolts as well as screws. Impact drivers are particularly helpful for fastening bolts onto reinforcement brackets used for framing material, so those who want to try their hand at DIY should definitely consider getting one.
You may have heard of tools with similar names like electric screwdrivers or impact wrenches. In this section we'll explain the difference between each of these.
The biggest difference between impact drivers and other similar tools like electric screwdrivers and impact wrenches is the torque. Torque is the value used to measure the amount of force in rotation, and the higher the number, the more powerful the force is.
Electric screwdrivers have the lowest torque of the three, averaging somewhere between 40 and 265 in-lbs., or inch-pounds. They're used for drilling holes in relatively delicate materials like furniture and plastics.
Impact drivers have a torque of somewhere between 1,300 and 2,000 in-lbs., and are intended specifically for driving larger screws on hard material. They work particularly well for things like wood decks, wooden fences, and support beams.
Tightening bolts onto metal requires even more power than driving screws, and this is where impact wrenches come in handy. They have a torque of 3,600 to 12,000 in-lbs., and are often used for servicing cars and construction equipment. Using the wrong tool for your job can result in poor performance or accidents. As a rule of thumb, you should use an impact driver for screws and an impact wrench for bolts.
Here are five factors to consider before buying your impact driver.
Impact drivers can be corded or cordless and run on batteries. But there aren't many options for corded impact drivers, as cordless models have become the norm.
For individuals working on smaller scale projects, we recommend easy-to-use cordless models as it's unlikely the battery would give out in the middle of a job.
The biggest advantage to battery powered models is their ease of use. With no cord to get in the way, you can get the job done even in high or hard-to-reach areas. While there is the added caveat that they need to be charged, the benefit of being able to work outside where there aren't any outlets can't be overstated.
Cordless impact drivers do cost more than corded ones, but the battery can be shared among other tools as long as they require the same voltage. So you could technically only buy one battery and then save on costs when buying other power tools, making up for the investment.
There can occasionally be differences in the shape or terminals on batteries for different tools, so it's best to check the serial number and model before you make any decisions.
Different batteries have different electric current and voltage standards, with current values falling between 1.5 and 6.0Ah, and voltage between 12 and 18V. Models with a higher current hold more electricity, and those with a higher voltage deliver more power.
During our tests on battery life, even the model with the lowest current of 1.5Ah was able to drive over 40 screws and 32 bolts. We can safely say that you won't have to worry about running out of juice if you're putting together a simple shelf or table, no matter what impact driver you choose.
If you'll be putting together relatively large structures like a wood deck or fence, choose a battery that holds a long charge. Batteries with a higher current last longer, so we recommend one with at least 4.0Ah.
In our tests, we found that Milwaukee's M18 FUEL 1/4-Inch Hex Impact Driver XC Kit 2853-22 had the longest battery life, driving 251 deck screws and 244 wheel lug nuts on a single charge. If a driver can handle over 350 screws and bolts, there's no need to worry about running out of battery in the middle of a big DIY project.
In addition, we calculated how many screws and bolts could be secured for each 1.0Ah of current. For those who plan on buying a battery separately, it's best to choose the one that can drive the most screws for each 1.0Ah.
Torque is a unit to measure the force of rotation, and rotation speed indicates how many rotations per minute the bit spins. Both the torque and rotation speed of an impact driver will affect how efficiently you can work, so make sure you choose one that fits with the task you have in mind.
If you're mainly dealing with one-inch-thick planks or plywood, any product on the market will provide you with enough power. Differences in torque and rotation speed won't make a difference when driving in short screws. Say you're driving one-and-a-quarter-inch-long screws. A difference in rotation speed would only save you 0.12 seconds. That isn't enough to affect your work performance.
For projects like wood decks and fences, every screw counts if you want to get the job done in a reasonable amount of time. We found that impact drivers with torque over 1,600 in-lbs. and rotation speeds over 3,200 rpm were generally able to drive three-and-a-half-inch screws within one and a half seconds.
Interestingly, we didn't notice any difference in performance related to voltage. As long as your impact driver has at least 18V you shouldn't have any problems.
There are two types of voltage values that may be shown on the label: nominal voltage and full charge voltage. Which value is shown on the product depends on the maker.
In most cases, products with nominal voltage of 18V and 20V actually produce the same 18V. Just because one shows 20V doesn't necessarily mean it's more powerful.
If working comfortably is important to you, it's best to choose a lightweight, compact model.
While testing various products, we found that an impact driver that weighed three pounds or less including the battery didn't tire us out even when holding it with one hand.
Models over three pounds, however, were a burden if we weren't holding them with both hands. Since batteries with a higher current are heavier, people who don't want a workout while working should choose a battery with a current between 1.5 and 3.0Ah.
A compact tool is easier to work with, and the size of the head on an impact driver is a major factor. Models with shorter heads are easier to fit in between walls and other tight spaces.
Those with a head five and a quarter inches long or shorter allowed us to get into cramped spots and work uninhibited. Products with shorter heads also tend to have their weight distributed more evenly and allow you to look more closely at the screw you're working on, which makes the job that much easier.
When buying an impact driver for the very first time, it's good to choose one that includes supporting functions.
The speed or mode setting will automatically control the torque. By default torque is controlled with the trigger on the body, but if you turn on the speed or mode setting it will handle how much torque is applied automatically.
If you're driving screws into delicate material like finished surfaces or plaster, you need to keep the torque in check so as to not damage the material. For those who aren't used to controlling it manually with the trigger, we recommend starting out with this feature turned on so that you don't accidentally tighten the screws too firmly or damage your material.
For models equipped with them, enabling self-tapping screw mode or quick-shift mode will also adjust the torque depending on the type of screw and material you're using. Look for one that offers speed and mode settings if you plan on working with a variety of material types.
A battery indicator is a light or screen showing how much charge is left on your battery. Cordless impact drivers won't perform as well when the battery starts to get low, so it's ideal to keep the charge high to bring out their true power.
People who use impact drivers on the job will often keep two batteries, so that when one starts to run low, the other is charged and ready to go. But you'll generally find that most sets only come with one battery.
Being able to see how much charge is left on a battery allows you to keep a full charge before starting a project. It would be inconvenient to start a job with only half a charge or less and then need to stop halfway through, so we definitely recommend choosing a model that has a battery indicator on the body.
Of the products we tested, the only two that came with both speed or mode settings and battery indicators were Milwaukee's M18 FUEL 2853-22 and Kobalt's 24-Volt Max KID 1324A-03. Both of these products cost over 100 dollars, but the multi-speed RYOBI Keyless Chuck Impact Driver P237 and Porter Cable's CABLE 20V MAX PCCK647LB with a battery indicator are both under 100 dollars.
We suggest you choose an impact driver with both a speed or mode setting and a battery indicator if you're willing to spend over 100 dollars.
If you're an expert experienced in large scale DIY projects, choose a product with at least three additional features to boost productivity.
Having an LED light on your impact driver is convenient for those times when your job goes into the night and you need to see what you're doing in the dark. Nearly all models are equipped with LED lights now, so all you need to do is choose one that's sufficiently bright.
While comparing products, we discovered that there is actually a significant difference between the brightness of LEDs on different models. Of course, brightness isn't the only spec you'll want to look at on an LED; there are also differences in the spread of light produced as well as its warmth. We found that lights with at least 600 lux were sufficiently bright. One lux is equal to one lumen per square meter.
Check the pictures we included in our ranking of each product being used in dark spots and compare them to the actual brightness specs given by the makers to help choose a product that works for you.
Choose a model with a belt hook if you plan on working on the roof or need to apply crown molding. You can keep your impact driver attached to your belt if it has a belt hook, so you can use both hands to safely climb stepladders. It's also helpful if you have other materials you need to carry around with both hands while working.
Make sure to check whether the product you plan to buy has a belt hook if you frequently work in high areas. If the impact driver you want doesn't have one, there's also the option of buying a separate holster.
Products with a quick-change hex allow for bits to be changed simply by sliding them onto the hex. This is different from standard impact drivers, which usually require that the hex be pulled forward to attach or remove the bit. By choosing a model with a quick-change hex, you can easily slide bits on and off without having to pull on the hex. If your project entails a wide variety of tasks, having an impact driver with a quick-change hex will make it that much easier to get the job done.
There are also some models that will push the bit off with a spring when you pull on the hex, so that you don't have to touch it with your hand. It's technically faster than models that require you to pull the bit off by hand, so look for one that allows for one-touch bit changing if possible.
Power supply | Cordless |
---|---|
Voltage | 18 V |
Torque | 2,000 in-lbs. |
Motor type | Brushless |
---|---|
Battery capacity | 5.0 Ah |
Weight of tool only | 2.24 lbs. |
Width | 2.43 in. |
Length | 4.6 in. |
Height | 7.5 in. |
Maximum chuck size | 1/4 in. |
Number of screws driven per battery charge | 251 |
Number of bolts tightened per battery charge | 244 |
Screw driving speed | 0.71 secs. |
Bolt tightening speed | 1.24 secs. |
Number of battery packs included | 2 |
Charger included | ✓ |
Battery level indicator | ✓ |
LED | ✓ |
LED brightness | 709 lux |
Belt clip | ✓ |
Quick-change hex chuck | ✓ |
Bit storage | ✓ |
Magnetic bit holder | - |
Accessories | M18 FUEL™ 1/4" Hex Impact Driver (Tool Only) (2853-20),M18™ REDLITHIUM™ XC5.0 Extended Capacity Battery Pack(48-11-1850),M18™ & M12™ Multi-Voltage Charger(48-59-1812),Belt Clip,Bit Holder,Carrying Case |
Power supply | Cordless |
---|---|
Voltage | 18 V |
Torque | 1,500 in-lbs. |
In our tests, we measured the required torque to fasten M12 bolts at 548 in-lbs. It's enough to tighten bolts onto reinforcements on construction material, but wouldn't be able to replace an impact wrench to loosen lug nuts. It demonstrated a commendable driving time of 2.05 seconds for deck screws and 2.74 seconds for wheel bolts. Even if you're taking on a bigger DIY project that involves a large number of screws, this model should handle it with ease.
Motor type | Brushless |
---|---|
Battery capacity | 3.0 Ah |
Weight of tool only | 2.07 lbs. |
Width | 3.43 in. |
Length | 4.95 in. |
Height | 6.46 in. |
Maximum chuck size | 1/4 in. |
Number of screws driven per battery charge | 120 |
Number of bolts tightened per battery charge | 111 |
Screw driving speed | 1.38 secs. |
Bolt tightening speed | 2.75 secs. |
Number of battery packs included | 1 |
Charger included | ✓ |
Battery level indicator | ✓ |
LED | ✓ |
LED brightness | 818 lux |
Belt clip | ✓ |
Quick-change hex chuck | ✓ |
Bit storage | - |
Magnetic bit holder | - |
Accessories | 18V LXT® Brushless Impact Driver,18V LXT® Lithium-Ion 3.0Ah Battery,18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Charger, Tool Bag |
Power supply | Cordless |
---|---|
Voltage | 18 V |
Torque | 1,832 In-lbs |
You can expect a maximum fastening torque of 1,832 in-lbs. and a rotation speed of 2,900 rpm from Metabo HPT's 18V Triple Hammer Impact Driver. It has an IP rating of 56, meaning it has a high level of waterproofing for use in places where it may easily get wet or covered in dust. The torque applied to M12 bolts came in at 522 in-lbs., which isn't quite enough to loosen lug nuts, but is plenty for fastening bolts onto construction material. It took 1.32 seconds to drive in deck screws and a very quick 2.14 seconds for wheel bolts. We can safely say it's powerful enough to be used for larger DIY projects that require lots of screws.
It only weighs two pounds 14 ounces with the battery inserted, and considering how slim the handle is, it shouldn't be a burden to hold for long periods. It also produced relatively little shaking that would impede your work. One small downfall is that the rotation direction switch has a wide trajectory and requires quite a bit of effort to flip. At just over five inches, the head is compact enough to drive screws into corners or other cramped areas. But the LED light is only 376 lux, which is on the weak side, so you may want to keep a separate work light handy for jobs in dark spots. It doesn't have a quick-change hex, either, so you'll need to pull bits off manually when changing them.
Thankfully it includes a belt hook, battery indicator, three rotation speeds, and a Self Drilling Screw mode for compatibility with a wide range of tasks. The included 2.0Ah battery allowed us to drive in 72 deck screws and 63 wheel bolts on a single charge. Building a shelf or table would be no problem, and you could probably even finish putting screws on the boards for a wooden deck in a single day.
Motor type | Brushless |
---|---|
Battery capacity | 3.0Ah |
Weight of tool only | 2.03 lbs. |
Width | 3.70 in. |
Length | 5.03 in. |
Height | 8.46 in. |
Maximum chuck size | 1/4 In. |
Number of screws driven per battery charge | 72 |
Number of bolts tightened per battery charge | 63 |
Screw driving speed | 1.32 secs. |
Bolt tightening speed | 2.14 secs. |
Number of battery packs included | 2 |
Charger included | ✓ |
Battery level indicator | ✓ |
LED | ✓ |
LED brightness | 376 lux |
Belt clip | ✓ |
Quick-change hex chuck | - |
Bit storage | - |
Magnetic bit holder | - |
Accessories | 2 × Compact 3.0Ah 18V Lithium Ion Slide-Type Batteries BSL1830C, Rapid Charger Storage, Case |
Power supply | Cordless |
---|---|
Voltage | 18 V |
Torque | 1,600 in-lbs. |
Makita's 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Quick-Shift Mode 4-Speed Impact Driver Kit (5.0Ah) boasts a maximum torque of 1,600 in-lbs. and rotation speed of 3,600 rpm. It comes with a mode that automatically stops rotation once a nut has been loosened to a certain degree to help prevent dropping nuts. Torque used for fastening M12 bolts measured 531 in-lbs. This is sufficient for putting bolts on construction material, but probably falls short of the power needed to loosen lug nuts. The time required to drive in a deck screw was 1.53 seconds, while securing wheel bolts needed 2.20 seconds, both respectably fast. It should carry you smoothly through big DIY projects that need a lot of screws.
At three pounds six ounces, it's somewhat heavy, and most of the weight falls on the side with the battery, which put some strain on our arms. The handle, however, is slim and fits nicely in your hand, and the non-slip material also does its job well. The rotation switch flips easily enough, and there's not much unwanted vibration to impede your work. While it does have an LED light, it's a mere 116 lux, so you'll probably want to use a separate work light if you need to use it in a dark area.
Thankfully, the head is a compact four and 5/8 inches, making it useful for jobs in tight spots. It also comes with most of the features pros would expect, like a battery indicator, belt hook, and quick-change hex. You can select one of four rotation speeds or use the assist mode that prevents screws from flying off when trying to get them in place initially. We found that the 5.0Ah battery held up for 168 deck screws and 162 wheel bolts on a single charge. That's enough battery life to handle a larger scale project like a wood deck or fence, in addition to simpler indoor DIY.
Motor type | Brushless |
---|---|
Battery capacity | 5.0 Ah |
Weight of tool only | 1.94 lbs. |
Width | 2.95 in. |
Length | 4.52 in. |
Height | 9.25 in. |
Maximum chuck size | 1/4 In. |
Number of screws driven per battery charge | 168 |
Number of bolts tightened per battery charge | 162 |
Screw driving speed | 1.53 secs. |
Bolt tightening speed | 2.20 secs. |
Number of battery packs included | 2 |
Charger included | ✓ |
Battery level indicator | ✓ |
LED | ✓ |
LED brightness | 116 lux |
Belt clip | ✓ |
Quick-change hex chuck | - |
Bit storage | - |
Magnetic bit holder | - |
Accessories | Lithium-Ioin 5.0Ah batteries, Rapid charger, Tool bag |
Power supply | Cordless |
---|---|
Voltage | 24 V |
Torque | 1,800 in-lbs. |
Motor type | Brushless |
---|---|
Battery capacity | 2.0 Ah |
Weight of tool only | 2.43 lbs. |
Width | 2.56 in. |
Length | 5.63 in. |
Height | 8.0 in. |
Maximum chuck size | 1/4 in. |
Number of screws driven per battery charge | 82 |
Number of bolts tightened per battery charge | 78 |
Screw driving speed | 1.45 secs. |
Bolt tightening speed | 2.29 secs. |
Number of battery packs included | 1 |
Charger included | ✓ |
Battery level indicator | ✓ |
LED | ✓ |
LED brightness | 600 lux |
Belt clip | ✓ |
Quick-change hex chuck | - |
Bit storage | ✓ |
Magnetic bit holder | - |
Accessories | - |
Power supply | Cordless |
---|---|
Voltage | 20 V |
Torque | 1,400 in-lbs. |
Motor type | Brushless |
---|---|
Battery capacity | 2.0 Ah |
Weight of tool only | 2.02 lbs. |
Width | 2.95 in. |
Length | 5.57 in. |
Height | 5.51 in. |
Maximum chuck size | 1/4 in. |
Number of screws driven per battery charge | 40 |
Number of bolts tightened per battery charge | 32 |
Screw driving speed | 1.38 secs |
Bolt tightening speed | 2.79 secs |
Number of battery packs included | 1 |
Charger included | ✓ |
Battery level indicator | - |
LED | ✓ |
LED brightness | 807 lux |
Belt clip | - |
Quick-change hex chuck | ✓ |
Bit storage | - |
Magnetic bit holder | - |
Accessories | - |
Power supply | Coreless |
---|---|
Voltage | 20 V |
Torque | 1,400 in-lbs. |
Motor type | Brushless |
---|---|
Battery capacity | 1.5 Ah |
Weight of tool only | 2.14 lbs. |
Width | 3.7 in. |
Length | 5.85 in. |
Height | 9.5 in. |
Maximum chuck size | 1/4 in. |
Number of screws driven per battery charge | 52 |
Number of bolts tightened per battery charge | 45 |
Screw driving speed | 1.50 secs. |
Bolt tightening speed | 3.77 secs. |
Number of battery packs included | 2 |
Charger included | ✓ |
Battery level indicator | ✓ |
LED | ✓ |
LED brightness | 253 lux |
Belt clip | ✓ |
Quick-change hex chuck | ✓ |
Bit storage | ✓ |
Magnetic bit holder | - |
Accessories | 2 × 20V MAX* 1.5Ah Batteries, 20V MAX* Battery Charger |
Power supply | Cordless |
---|---|
Voltage | 20 V |
Torque | 1,500 in-lbs. |
The V20 Cordless Brushless 1/4-Inch Impact Driver Kit with one battery is by Stanley Black+Decker's brand Craftsman, which is targeted at professional construction workers and auto enthusiasts. It has a maximum torque of 1,500 in-lbs. and rotation speed of 2,800 rpm. The torque used for fastening M12 bolts came to 495 in-lbs. in our tests. This is enough to work on construction material but would be insufficient for changing tires on a car.
As for speed, deck screws took 1.82 seconds to drive and wheel bolts took 3.98 seconds to fasten. It's sufficient for building a shelf or table, but would have a negative impact on efficiency when building a wood deck or house frame. The body weights a comfortable two pounds 14 ounces with the battery in place, and didn't weigh our arms down. The handle is also comfortably slim, making for a pleasant experience while working. It didn't vibrate excessively nor did the bit ever come loose while driving screws. However, the rotation switch is far away from the user's fingers when holding the handle, so switching between driving and loosening was a chore. People with small hands wouldn't find it particularly user-friendly.
The head size of the 20V is five and a half inches across, which is compact enough to handle jobs in tight spots. It has both a battery indicator and quick-change hex, so you won't have any trouble keeping it charged or replacing bits. The LED light is 1,204 lux, making usage in dark areas a breeze. Unfortunately it doesn't come with a belt hook, so people who work in high spots will need to buy a separate holder. Speed and mode options are also missing, so beginners will need to be careful to not accidentally fasten screws too tight.
The included 1.5Ah battery was able to drive 42 deck screws and fasten 37 wheel bolts when fully charged. You probably won't run out of battery if you're building small furniture, but you'll definitely need a second battery if you plan on using it for something like a deck or fence.
Motor type | Brushless |
---|---|
Battery capacity | 1.5 Ah |
Weight of tool only | 2.05 lbs. |
Width | 2.75 in. |
Length | 5.5 in. |
Height | 7.83 in. |
Maximum chuck size | 1/4 in. |
Number of screws driven per battery charge | 42 |
Number of bolts tightened per battery charge | 37 |
Screw driving speed | 1.82 secs. |
Bolt tightening speed | 3.98 secs. |
Number of battery packs included | 1 |
Charger included | ✓ |
Battery level indicator | ✓ |
LED | ✓ |
LED brightness | 1,204 lux |
Belt clip | - |
Quick-change hex chuck | ✓ |
Bit storage | - |
Magnetic bit holder | - |
Accessories | CMCF810 Brushless Impact Driver, V20 20V MAX* 1.5Ah Lithium Ion Battery, V20 20V MAX* Lithium Ion Charger, Storage Bag |
Power supply | Cordless |
---|---|
Voltage | 18 V |
Torque | 1,800 in-lbs. |
Motor type | Brushless |
---|---|
Battery capacity | 1.5 Ah |
Weight of tool only | 2.65 lbs. |
Width | 3.39 in. |
Length | 7.68 in. |
Height | 7.40 in. |
Maximum chuck size | 1/4 in. |
Number of screws driven per battery charge | 52 |
Number of bolts tightened per battery charge | 43 |
Screw driving speed | 1.34 secs. |
Bolt tightening speed | 3.10 secs. |
Number of battery packs included | - |
Charger included | - |
Battery level indicator | - |
LED | ✓ |
LED brightness | 1418 lux |
Belt clip | ✓ |
Quick-change hex chuck | ✓ |
Bit storage | ✓ |
Magnetic bit holder | ✓ |
Accessories | - |
Power supply | Cordless |
---|---|
Voltage | 12V |
Torque | 1,300 in-lbs |
The M12 FUEL SURGE 1/4 in. Hex Hydraulic Driver by Milwaukee has a maximum torque of 1,300 in-lbs. and rotation speed of 3,300 rpm. It claims to be light enough to prevent muscle fatigue in the user. In our tests, it exerted 548 in-lbs. of torque when fastening M12 bolts, which is plenty for getting bolts fastened onto reinforcements used for construction; but it probably wouldn't replace an impact wrench for loosening lug nuts. Driving in a deck screw took 2.53 seconds, and fastening a wheel bolt took 2.68 seconds. That's speedy enough to efficiently get you through pretty much any job.
This impact driver was the lightest of all the products we looked at, a mere two pounds with the battery inserted. It won't put a strain on your arm whether you're using it for a long project or carrying it around. Unfortunately, the handle is rather thick, making it difficult to grip for people with small hands. The direction switch is also stiff and requires a bit of effort to flip. We noticed a bit more vibration when driving in screws compared to some of the other impact drivers, but it wasn't to the point where it felt like an additional burden on our arms. The LED light is only 253 lux, so you'll want to consider keeping a work light on hand for jobs in the dark. But the head is under five and a quarter inches, making it useful for jobs in corners or other tight spots. It also has all the features needed for improving work efficiency, like a battery indicator, quick-change hex and belt hook.
As for modes, there are three rotation speeds and a drill mode, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding the one that fits your task. Our tests revealed that a single charge with the 2.0Ah battery held up through 32 deck screws and 26 wheel bolts. You won't have to worry about running out of battery when putting together smaller pieces of furniture, but you would need at least two batteries to handle a larger project like building a wooden deck or fence.
Motor type | Brushless |
---|---|
Battery capacity | 2.0 Ah |
Weight of tool only | 1.68 lbs. |
Width | 2.2 in. |
Length | 5.2 in. |
Height | 7.8 in. |
Maximum chuck size | 1/4 In. |
Number of screws driven per battery charge | 32 |
Number of bolts tightened per battery charge | 26 |
Screw driving speed | 2.53 secs. |
Bolt tightening speed | 2.68 secs. |
Number of battery packs included | 1 |
Charger included | ✓ |
Battery level indicator | - |
LED | ✓ |
LED brightness | 253 lux |
Belt clip | ✓ |
Quick-change hex chuck | ✓ |
Bit storage | - |
Magnetic bit holder | - |
Accessories | M12 FUEL™ SURGE™ 1/4" Hex Hydraulic Driver Bare Tool, 2 × M12™ REDLITHIUM™ CP2.0 Battery, M12™ Lithium-ion Battery Charger, Belt Clip, Contractor Bag |
Power supply | Cordless |
---|---|
Voltage | 20 V |
Torque | 1,825 ft-lbs |
DeWalt's 20V MAX XR Li-Ion Brushless 0.25" 3-Speed Impact Driver has a maximum torque of 2,000 in-lbs. and rotation speed of 2,800 rpm. It sports three LED lights to improve visibility for your task. We measured the amount of torque used for fastening M12 bolts at 522 in-lbs., which is plenty of power for getting bolts onto wooden beams but not enough to loosen lug nuts. Deck screws took 1.75 seconds to drive, while wheel bolts took 2.4 seconds to fasten, which is fast enough to make quick work of even large scale DIY projects. Taking into consideration the three-and-a-half-pound weight with the battery inserted and the unresponsive trigger that needs to be held down all the way for it to work, your hands and arms could get tired after using it for a while.
On the bright side, the rotation direction switch is easy to flip. It also keeps vibration down to a minimum when driving screws, which helps prevent fatigue. The head is relatively compact at five and 3/8 inches, and you'll rarely feel inhibited by the size, even when working in areas with limited space. The three rotation speeds should be enough to match whatever job you've got at hand.
It doesn't have a battery indicator, magnet strip, or belt hook, but it does have a quick-change hex, so you can change bits with a single hand. And the 982 lux LED light is definitely bright enough to make your workspace easy to see. The 5.0Ah battery lasted through 37 deck screws and 32 wheel bolts on a single charge. It's unlikely you'll run out of battery when building smaller furniture like a shelf or table, but for a larger DIY project like a wooden deck or fence you'll probably want to have a second battery on hand to be on the safe side.
Motor type | Brushless |
---|---|
Battery capacity | 5.0 Ah |
Weight of tool only | 2 lbs. |
Width | 2.95 in. |
Length | 5.33 in. |
Height | 9.64 in. |
Maximum chuck size | 1/4 In. |
Number of screws driven per battery charge | 37 |
Number of bolts tightened per battery charge | 32 |
Screw driving speed | 1.75 secs. |
Bolt tightening speed | 2.4 secs. |
Number of battery packs included | - |
Charger included | - |
Battery level indicator | - |
LED | ✓ |
LED brightness | 982 lux |
Belt clip | - |
Quick-change hex chuck | ✓ |
Bit storage | - |
Magnetic bit holder | - |
Accessories | DCF887 - 20V MAX* XR® 1/4" 3-Speed Impact Driver, Belt Hook |
Power supply | Cordless |
---|---|
Voltage | 20 V |
Torque | 1,375 in-lbs. |
Motor type | Brushed |
---|---|
Battery capacity | 1.5 Ah |
Weight of tool only | 3.6 lbs. |
Width | 3.0 in. |
Length | 7.88 in. |
Height | 9.0 in. |
Maximum chuck size | 1/4 in. |
Number of screws driven per battery charge | 47 |
Number of bolts tightened per battery charge | 42 |
Screw driving speed | 2.05 secs. |
Bolt tightening speed | 4.57 secs. |
Number of battery packs included | 1 |
Charger included | ✓ |
Battery level indicator | - |
LED | ✓ |
LED brightness | 516 lux |
Belt clip | - |
Quick-change hex chuck | - |
Bit storage | ✓ |
Magnetic bit holder | - |
Accessories | "BDCI22 impact driver, 2V MAX* POWERCONNECT battery, charger, screwdriving bit. " |
Power supply | Cordless |
---|---|
Voltage | 18 V |
Torque | 1,800 In-lbs. |
Motor type | Brushless |
---|---|
Battery capacity | 1.5 Ah |
Weight of tool only | 2.67 lbs. |
Width | 2.9 in. |
Length | 7.1 in. |
Height | 7.3 in. |
Maximum chuck size | 1/4 in. |
Number of screws driven per battery charge | 42 |
Number of bolts tightened per battery charge | 34 |
Screw driving speed | 1.68 secs. |
Bolt tightening speed | 2.99 secs. |
Number of battery packs included | 1 |
Charger included | ✓ |
Battery level indicator | - |
LED | ✓ |
LED brightness | 138.5 lux |
Belt clip | - |
Quick-change hex chuck | ✓ |
Bit storage | ✓ |
Magnetic bit holder | ✓ |
Accessories | - |
For this article we looked at 13 impact drivers which were highly ranked on sites like Amazon, Lowe's and Home Depot and tested each one out to find which was the best. Using the mybest standard, we defined quality impact drivers as those that not only have respectable torque and rotation speed but also include features that make work smooth and efficient.
Our tests focused on the four following criteria.
Products we tested
First, we looked at the torque and rotation speed of each impact driver, which are essential qualities. The breakdown for our scoring requirements is as follows.
Torque: 20 points possible
We measured how long it took to fully drive a 17-millimeter M12 bolt (roughly equivalent to a 5/8-inch long, 1/2-inch diameter bolt) and checked the torque with a torque wrench. We defined minimum torque as 442 in-lbs. as this is required to fully secure bolts onto construction material. Products that were able to apply over 840 in-lbs. and remove lug nuts on cars were given full points. Impact drivers aren't intended for loosening lug nuts, but we decided it would be convenient if they could be used temporarily in place of an impact wrench.
Time to drive a screw: 40 points possible
We took the average of how long it took to drive in a three-and-a-half-inch long, #10 screw on a two-by-four wood plank over five tries. Each product was tested while fully charged and on its highest setting for those with speed or mode setting options. We considered a time of 1.5 seconds to be the maximum in terms of a smooth workflow, with under one second being exceptionally fast.
Time to secure a bolt: 40 points possible
We measured the time it took to fully secure an M12, 40-millimeter wheel bolt (approximately one and 9/16 inches long) into a two by four. Each product was tested while fully charged and on its highest setting for those with speed or mode setting options. We considered a time of three seconds to be the maximum in terms of a smooth workflow, with under two seconds being exceptionally fast.
Even an impact driver with good specs can't claim to be the best if it doesn't feel convenient to use. This is why we asked five men and women, all comfortable with DIY projects, to test these products. They rated each of the four criteria and how they affected the products' ease of use based on their own subjective experiences.
Based on the experience while measuring torque and rotation speed of driving screws into two-by-fours. We scored four aspects of each product based on the following.
We also tested features which added to efficiency and user-friendliness based on the following eight points, with a maximum score of 100 points total.
Finally, we looked at battery life, as it's a lot easier to get a job done with an impact driver that doesn't need to be charged halfway through. We awarded points based on how many screws and bolts each model could tighten per charge.
We counted how many screws and bolts each model could tighten with its included battery until the charge ran out completely. For models that didn't have a battery included, we used ones sold separately by the same makers. Values are given by how many screws or bolts a battery could handle per 1.0Ah of current. A perfect score was given to products that could tighten at least 350 deck screws and wheel bolts per charge, as that's generally the amount needed to build a 100-square-foot wooden deck.
Tightening screws: 50 points possible
Tightening bolts: 50 points possible
No. 1: Milwaukee | M18 FUEL 1/4" Hex Impact Driver XC Kit | 2853-22
No. 2: Makita | 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Impact Driver Kit (3.0Ah) | XDT131
No. 3: Metabo HPT | 18V Triple Hammer Impact Driver with Batteries and Charger | WH18DBDL2C
No. 4: Makita | 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Quick-Shift Mode 4-Speed Impact Driver Kit (5.0Ah) | XDT16T
No. 5: Kobalt | Kobalt Impact Drivers 24-Volt Max Variable Speed Brushless Cordless Impact Driver | KID 1324A-03
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
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