Our Top Picks
Comparing Top Impact Drivers in 2024
Best Overall Impact Driver
The DEWALT 20V MAX Impact Driver is a great choice for those in need of a powerful, yet compact and lightweight tool. Its brushless motor provides increased runtime and durability, making it a great long-term investment for those working on tougher projects. The cordless design makes it easier to maneuver into hard-to-reach spots, while the LED light with a 20-second delay after trigger release adds another layer of convenience and practicality.
This impact driver also comes with a storage bag and battery included, which is great for keeping everything together and ready to go. The battery can also be quickly and easily swapped out if needed, making it easier to get through tough jobs without interruption.
Overall the DEWALT 20V MAX Impact Driver is an excellent multi-use tool. Its brushless motor offers excellent performance, while its lightweight, cordless design offers more flexibility when working in tight spaces. It also comes with a number of included accessories, as well as easy battery-swapping capabilities, further increasing its appeal for those looking for an all-in-one solution for their various projects.
Pros
- Most compact size among competitors
- Easy to use and operate
- Part of DEWALT’s versatile battery platform
Cons
- Lower power output than some competitors
Most Durable Impact Driver
The Bosch 18V Connected-Ready Freak Two-In-One 1/4″ and 1/2″ Impact Driver is the perfect tool for any job, allowing for versatile and precise operation with both bits and sockets. Featuring three speed and torque settings, users can customize the settings to accommodate a myriad of applications, from light-duty to heavy-duty projects. Additionally, the advanced modes are an incredibly convenient feature that helps to prevent workpiece and fastener damage while also providing precise control over accuracy and speed.
The Auto Bolt Release function is an incredibly useful feature that stops the rotation when there is no load on the tool, thus preventing accidentally dropping bolts or nuts during removal. This package includes a 4.0Ah battery, an 18V charger, four bits, a bit holder, a belt clip, and a carrying bag for all tools; everything you need to get started.
This Impact Driver is an incredibly useful tool for both construction professionals and do-it-yourselfers alike. With its versatility and user-friendly features like speed control and auto bolt release, you can be sure you’re getting a top-of-the-line product that will last for years to come.
Pros
- High-quality driver from a trusted brand
- Long-lasting battery
- Easy to use and durable enough for a variety of projects
Cons
- The highest base price of all our choices
Longest Impact Driver Battery Life
The Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Impact Driver Kit (3.0Ah) is a great choice for anyone looking for a durable and powerful impact driver. It is equipped with a BL Brushless Motor, which delivers 1,500 in.lbs. of Max Torque – more than enough to handle any tough job. Its variable speed (0-3,400 RPM and 0-3,600 IPM) allows it to be used in a wide variety of fastening applications. The BL Brushless Motor also features heat reduction technology meaning it runs significantly cooler and more efficiently, increasing its life expectancy.
This impact is powered by 3.0Ah lithium-ion batteries that provide up to 50% greater run time over standard Ni-Cd batteries, meaning less time spent waiting for the tool to recharge and more time getting the job done faster. The battery charging time is also reduced compared to standard Ni-Cd batteries, so there’s no need to stop mid-project due to lengthy charge times.
When it comes to safety, the impact is designed with two built-in LED lights which provide brighter light when working in an area with dim or low lighting. It also has an electric brake that helps stop the tool immediately after releasing the trigger – perfect for preventing any accidents from happening.
Makita’s brushless impact is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a powerful and durable impact driver with exceptional performance and long life. It offers a wide range of features including a high torque motor, adjustable speed settings, improved battery runtime and charging times along with added safety features like LED lights and electric brakes.
Pros
- Longest-lasting batteries of all our top impact drivers
- Balances power and control very well
- Can remove bolts with up to 100lbs of torque
Cons
- The included belt clip is not a great source of storage
Best Impact for DIYers
The Craftsman V20 20-Volt Max Variable Speed Brushless Cordless Impact Driver is a great tool for any DIYer or professional. With its brushless motor, it delivers up to 30% more runtime than traditional models and a whopping 1,500 in-lbs. of torque.
It has an impressive maximum speed of 2,800 RPM and 3,500 IPM which makes quick fastening tasks easy and fast. This driver also features a quick-release chuck for easy one-handed bit changes, ideal for any job.
Not only does this impact driver deliver powerful performance, but it looks great too with its bright red design. The ergonomic handle ensures a comfortable grip even during long jobs, while the LED light provides visibility in dark workspaces.
The Craftsman Cordless Impact Driver is a fantastic addition to any toolkit. Its power, design, and convenience make it an ideal choice for powering through tough tasks with ease.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Brushless motor adjusts to needed torque
- The complete kit comes with two 20V batteries
Cons
- Shortest battery life of our impact driver picks
Most Affordable Impact Driver
This BLACK+DECKER Impact Driver also comes with a mouse sander, providing a powerful combination of tools that are ideal for tackling a variety of sanding and drilling projects. Their compact, ergonomic designs make them easy to maneuver and use in tight corners and spaces, while their dust collection helps to keep the work surface clean.
The BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Lithium Impact Driver is a versatile tool that provides plenty of power and torque to easily drive long lag screws or drill into hardwood. It also includes a variable speed trigger that operates up to 2,800 RPM and 3,100 BPM for controlled operation, along with an LED light for easier access in dark areas.
With the BLACK+DECKER Cordless Mouse Sander and Lithium Impact Driver combo pack, homeowners can complete small and large projects with accuracy and efficiency. These two tools are perfect for anyone who needs reliable performance and precise control over their DIY projects.
Pros
- The most bang for your buck with two tools included
- Impact driver is excellent for tight tasks around the house
- Interchangeable batteries provide maximum value
Cons
- Lowest power output on our list
Buyer's Guide to Finding the Right Impact Driver
What is an impact driver?
An impact driver is a type of power tool that uses a rotating hammering motion to drive screws and other fasteners into materials such as wood and metal. It is commonly used for projects such as furniture assembly, drywall installation, cabinet installation, and other woodworking projects.
Impact drivers vs. Drills: What’s the difference?
The main difference between an impact driver and a drill is the type of power they use. A drill uses a spinning motion to drive screws, while an impact driver uses a hammering motion to drive screws. An impact driver also typically generates more torque than a drill, which makes it better suited for larger tasks that require more power.
Advantages of using an impact driver
The main advantage of using an impact driver over a regular drill is that it can generate higher amounts of torque with much less effort on the user’s part. This makes it ideal for assembling furniture or driving in large screws or bolts. An impact driver also has fewer moving parts than a drill, so it’s less likely to break down over time and requires less maintenance.
How to use an impact driver
Using an impact driver is fairly straightforward and easy to do. First, attach the desired bit (e.g., Phillips head or flathead) to the tip of the impact driver. Then position the bit at the desired screw or bolt location and press firmly on the trigger until the screw or bolt is driven in completely. To remove screws or bolts, simply reverse the process by pressing firmly on the trigger in the opposite direction until the screw or bolt is removed from the surface.
Different types of impact drivers
There are different types of impact drivers available on the market today. The most common types are cordless (battery-powered) models, corded models (which require an electrical outlet), and air-powered models (which use compressed air).
Important considerations before your purchase
When it comes to choosing an impact driver, there are a number of features you should consider. Here’s a rundown of the most important product features you should examine before making your purchase.
Power
When selecting an impact driver, you want enough power to cover any jobs you anticipate using it for. Keep an eye out for maximum torque ratings and speeds when choosing, so that you’ll be sure your new tool can get the job done.
Battery types and capacity
Most impact drivers come with either nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, or lithium-ion batteries. Choose one that offers enough capacity (amp-hours) for your needs and is compatible with any attachments or accessories you may need in the future.
Weight and size
Make sure to choose an impact driver that’s both small enough to fit into tight spots, and light enough that it doesn’t become cumbersome during use. Many modern impact drivers are compact and lightweight, so take advantage of these newer models for maximum convenience.
Speed settings
An adjustable speed setting is essential for choosing the right speed for the material being fastened. Look for models with multiple speed settings so you can always find the ideal setting for your specific job needs.
Torque adjustability
Most modern impact drivers come with adjustable torque settings so that you can dial in specific levels of power depending on the job at hand. This is a great way to ensure optimal performance no matter what kind of fastening project you have in mind.
Voltage
Be sure to check the voltage of your new impact driver before buying to make sure it’s compatible with any future attachments or accessories you may purchase.
Ergonomics
Comfort and ease of use are key factors when it comes to choosing an impact driver. Look for a handle shape that fits comfortably in your hand, and controls that are easy to access without hindering your motion while using the tool.
LED lights
If you plan on using your new impact driver in dark areas like attics or crawl spaces, look for models that feature LED lights on the tool itself so that you don’t have to worry about finding a separate source of light while working in hard-to-reach places.
Chuck size
The chuck size (1/4”, 3/8”, 1/2”) of your tool will determine which drill bits and chucks are compatible with your impact driver. Be sure to double-check this size before buying if you plan on using any accessories or attachments with your tool down the road.
Quality of components
Finally, take a close look at how well-constructed and durable the components of your new impact driver are before making a purchase. You don’t want a tool that won’t last through tough job site conditions or heavy-duty use, so examine its quality before taking it home with you.
Impact Driver Frequently Asked Questions
What are some accessories that can be used with an impact driver?
There are a variety of accessories that can be used with an impact driver, including bits, nut drivers, sockets, extension bits, etc. These accessories can be used to help access hard-to-reach places or perform specific tasks such as driving lag bolts into wood or removing stripped screws from metal surfaces.
What type of screw/bolt can be driven with an impact driver?
An impact driver can be used to drive a variety of screws and bolts including Phillips-head screws, flat-head screws, hex-head screws, lag bolts, etc. If needed, certain accessories like socket adapters can be used to increase the range of sizes that can be driven by the tool.
What safety measures should I keep in mind when using an impact driver?
When using an impact driver it’s important to always wear protective gear such as goggles and work gloves to protect your eyes and hands from flying debris or slipping on wet surfaces when using the tool outdoors in wet conditions. Additionally, it’s important to use both hands when operating any power tool like an impact driver for greater control over its movements and ensure safety for yourself as well as those around you at all times.
Is an impact driver suitable for heavier tasks or is a drill better for those tasks?
In general, an impact driver is more suitable for heavier tasks than a regular drill due to its ability to generate higher amounts of torque with less effort from the user’s part than what would normally be required with a drill. However, some lighter or finer tasks may require more precision than what can be provided by an impact driver so in those instances, it might be better suited to go with a regular drill instead.
Are there any tips for getting the most out of my impact driver?
To get optimal performance out of your impact driver here are few tips: make sure you’re using the right bit for your projects; check that the battery is charged before starting; use both hands for greater control when operating; and apply consistent pressure when driving in your fasteners instead of using too much force at once which can cause unnecessary strain on the tool itself.
