The Best Impact Drivers | Reviews of Top Drills
Contents
- The Best Impact Drivers Are:
- 1. Bosch CLPK27-120 12V Max 2-Tool Combo Kit
- 2. Milwaukee 2462-20 M12 Cordless Impact Driver
- 3. Black+Decker BDCI20C Max Lithium Impact Driver
- 4. Dewalt DCK240C2 20V Lithium Drill Driver/Impact Combo Kit
- 5. Makita XDT16Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 4-Speed Impact Driver
- 6. Porter-Cable PCCK640LB 20V Max Cordless Impact Driver Kit
- 7. Dewalt DCF885C1 20V Max Impact Driver Kit
- Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Impact Driver
- Compact and Lightweight
- Power
- Performance
- Durability
- Battery Platform
- Safety
- When to Use an Impact Driver
- Conclusion
- Sources
Need help with screws and nuts? If you’re looking for something to drive screws and tighten nuts fast and well, you want an impact driver in your arsenal.
Impact drivers add rapid rotational blows to a motor, which gives them far more torque than a drill driver of the same size. They excel at long screws, lag bolts and nuts.
Below we compare seven impact drivers and kits on torque, speed and size.
OUR TOP PICK
Our top pick is the Bosch CLPK27-120 12V Max 2-Tool Combo Kit. The kit pairs Bosch's compact PS41 impact driver with the PS21 two-speed pocket driver. It is light, compact and comfortable for long sessions, and the impact driver has plenty of torque for typical home projects.
The Best Impact Drivers Are:
1. Bosch CLPK27-120 12V Max 2-Tool Combo Kit
The PS41 impact driver is small, but it delivers 930 in-lbs of torque and up to 2,600 RPM, per Bosch's CLPK27-120 page. That covers most decking, furniture and general fastening work.
This combo kit included a pocket driver as well as an impact driver. They are compact, so they can be easily maneuvered to work in tighter spaces and corners. Both are light enough to carry all day.
The PS21 pocket driver has 20+1 clutch settings for precise screwdriving, which complements the impact driver for small screws that need a gentle touch.
It has a good balance between the head and the rest of the body. Because of that, this unit is much easier to control. You can work even in tighter and smaller spaces without getting injured. A variable-speed trigger controls speed.
The impact driver is light enough for overhead work, the soft-grip handle is comfortable, and an LED light helps in dark spots. A fuel gauge shows remaining battery charge.
Specs
- Speed: 0 to 2,600 RPM (PS41)
- Torque: 930 inch/lbs. (PS41)
- Power: 12V Lithium Battery
- Power Source: Battery-Powered
- Weight: 4.54 pounds (kit)
Pros
- It comes with an ergonomically designed handle
- Includes both an impact driver and a pocket drill driver
- A variable speed setting to control the speed of the tool
- An LED light to brighten up your workspace
Cons
- 12V platform has less torque than 18V and 20V drivers
Verdict: Compact and Lightweight Choice
A compact two-tool kit that covers most home fastening and light drilling, with a pocket driver for delicate screws.
2. Milwaukee 2462-20 M12 Cordless Impact Driver
Milwaukee's M12 2462-20 is a compact 12V impact driver that delivers 1,000 in-lbs of torque and 0 to 2,500 RPM, per Milwaukee's 2462-20 page.
It runs on M12 REDLITHIUM batteries, and an on-board fuel gauge shows remaining run time. A built-in LED lights your work area.
A belt clip fits left- or right-handed users. Note that the 2462-20 is sold as a bare tool, so add a battery and charger if you are not already on M12.
Specs
- Speed: 2,500 RPM
- Torque: 1000 inch/lbs.
- Power: 12V Lithium Battery
- Power Source: Battery-Powered
- Weight: 1.37 pounds
Pros
- It delivers great performance
- It comes with an LED lighting system to light up your workspace
- Ergonomically designed handle
- Inexpensive if you already own M12 batteries
Cons
- Not the best option for heavy-duty projects
- Battery and charger sold separately
Verdict: Compact 12V Choice
A strong compact choice, especially for anyone already invested in Milwaukee M12 batteries.
3. Black+Decker BDCI20C Max Lithium Impact Driver
The Black+Decker BDCI20C is an affordable 20V impact driver kit for homeowners. It is rated at 1,375 in-lbs of torque and up to 3,000 RPM.
It has a quick-release 1/4-inch hex chuck and comes with a battery and charger.
An LED turns on with the trigger. Its compact size fits into tight spaces.
Specs
- Speed: 0-3,000 RPM
- Torque: 1,375 inch/lbs.
- Power: 20V Lithium Battery
- Power Source: Battery-Powered
- Weight: 3.6 pounds
Pros
- Battery and charger included
- Drives screws, bolts and nuts
- An LED light to enable you to see what you are doing
- Lightweight and compact design
Cons
- It can overheat when you overwork it
Verdict: Budget Kit
A good starter impact driver for home use at a low price.
4. Dewalt DCK240C2 20V Lithium Drill Driver/Impact Combo Kit
With this kit, you are getting a drill driver and an impact driver. A kit usually costs less than buying the two tools separately. Both tools are light and comfortable.
The drill driver has a two-speed transmission (0 to 450 and 0 to 1,500 RPM), and the impact driver has a one-handed loading hex chuck.
Since it is compact, it can be used in tighter spaces. It has an LED light that makes it easier to see what you are working on. The lights are positioned strategically so no shadows are cast over your work table. It comes with a storage bag.
Specs
- Speed: 0-450 & 1,500 RPM (drill driver)
- Torque: 1,400 inch/lbs. (DCF885 impact driver, the same driver as pick 7)
- Power: 20V Lithium Battery
- Power Source: Battery-Powered
- Weight: 9.1 pounds
Pros
- It comes with a storage bag for easy transportation
- The power is commendable
- You can use it in tight and awkward spaces
- A dual-speed setting for more control
Cons
- Users complained of the battery life not being up to par.
Verdict: Great Value for Your Money
A drill driver and an impact driver in one kit cover most drilling and fastening jobs.
5. Makita XDT16Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 4-Speed Impact Driver
The Makita XDT16Z is a brushless 18V impact driver with four speed settings and Quick-Shift Mode. Makita now lists it as discontinued, so you may find it only as remaining stock; check Makita's current 18V LXT impact drivers as alternatives.
Its top speed is 3,600 RPM with up to 3,800 impacts per minute.
The power and speed selector is also very easy to reach, as they are situated under the chuck or collet. This unit also delivers up to 1,600 in-pounds of torque.
It has an auto-stop mode that helps when you are loosening fasteners. The ergonomic grip design also makes it very easy and convenient to handle. The overall build quality is great, and the trigger is comfortably and conveniently positioned.
Of the most outstanding features of this unit is its inbuilt assistance, which is called the A-mode. This feature helps to prevent cross-threading by reducing the rotations per minute until it senses that the tightening has begun.
The quick shift mode of this unit uses the electronic controls of the brushless motor to find the perfect balance of torque and speed for every application. This provides you with more efficient fastening.
The XDT16Z is a bare tool, so the battery and charger are sold separately. Star Protection Computer Controls guard the tool and battery against overloading and overheating.
Specs
- Speed: 4-speed power selection, up to 3,600 RPM
- Torque: 1,600 inch/lbs.
- Power: 18V Lithium Battery
- Power Source: Battery-Powered
- Weight: 2.4 pounds
Pros
- It delivers up to 3,600 RPM and 3,800 IPM
- Assist mode helps prevent cross-threading
- Brushless motor
- 4-speed/power selector
Cons
- It is on the higher end of the price spectrum
- Discontinued by Makita
Verdict: Most Versatile Option
Four speed ranges and assist modes make it the most versatile driver here, if you can still find one.
6. Porter-Cable PCCK640LB 20V Max Cordless Impact Driver Kit
The Porter-Cable PCCK640LB is a 20V impact driver kit with a battery included.
It weighs about 3 pounds and has a comfortable grip.
It is rated at up to 1,450 in-lbs of torque with variable speed, and a battery gauge shows remaining charge.
With this unit, you can insert bits with one hand, thanks to its easy load chuck. It comes with an LED work light to illuminate your work area in poor light conditions.
A No. 2 Phillips bit is included.
Specs
- Speed: Variable (see manufacturer rating)
- Torque: 1,450 inch/lbs.
- Power: 20V Lithium Battery
- Power Source: Battery-Powered
- Weight: 3.2 pounds
Pros
- It features a comfortable and lightweight design
- Variable speed
- It delivers a generous torque capacity
Cons
- It does not come with an extra storage box
- The features are more basic than premium
Verdict: Best Torque Power
If your focus is on the best impact driver that generates great torque, then you should consider this option. It is rated at up to 1,450 in-lbs, the highest torque rating in this guide.
7. Dewalt DCF885C1 20V Max Impact Driver Kit
If you are looking for a lightweight, yet powerful impact driver that you can use to handle a wide range of projects, you should consider the Dewalt DCF885C1. This unit generates up to 1,400 inches/lbs. of torque. It also delivers a variable speed control, with a speed range from 0 to 2,800 rotations per minute.
It weighs about 2.8 pounds with a battery.
You can also use this impact driver to work during late hours or in dark areas, thanks to its inbuilt LED lights. This cordless impact driver comes with a 20V battery that delivers extended run time. It has a .25-inch hex chuck and it accepts one-inch bit tips.
It carries DeWalt's three-year limited warranty, and the kit includes a battery and charger.
Its short head fits tight spaces on the job site.
Specs
- Speed: 2,800 RPM
- Torque: 1,400 inch/lbs.
- Power: 20V Lithium Battery
- Power Source: Battery-Powered
- Weight: 2.8 pounds
Pros
- It is super lightweight and compact
- Strong torque for its size
- It comes with LED lights
- It is ideal for heavy-duty tasks, and tight, awkward spaces.
Cons
- It is a bit expensive
Verdict: Compact Design for Tight Space
The Dewalt DCF885C1 comes with a lightweight and compact design that allows you to use it in tight and awkward spaces.
Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Impact Driver
Still on the fence about the right impact driver to get? We recommend taking the following things into consideration:
Compact and Lightweight
Compact, light drivers are easier to use overhead and fit into tight spaces.
Power
12V drivers (about 900 to 1,000 in-lbs) handle most home projects. 18V and 20V drivers (about 1,400 in-lbs and up) suit lag bolts, decking and heavy daily use.
Performance
Look for multiple speed or mode settings. Lower speeds help with small screws and soft materials, where a full-power impact driver can strip heads or snap fasteners.
Durability
It should be able to hold up well against external wear and tear. It should be made from materials that don’t get damaged easily.
Battery Platform
If you already own batteries for one brand, buying a bare tool on the same platform saves money.
Safety
Impact drivers are loud. Wear hearing protection for long sessions and safety glasses when driving into metal or masonry.
When to Use an Impact Driver
Should you get a drill or an impact driver? This is often the dilemma of many people.
A drill applies steady torque and has an adjustable clutch, so it is better for drilling holes and driving small or delicate screws precisely.
Impact drivers are better for jobs that need high torque, such as long screws, lag bolts and dense lumber.
The impact driver is also easier to use, as it does not require too much hand force to keep it in place. That means when you work on this kind of tool, you are less likely to experience hand fatigue.
Conclusion
Our top pick for the best impact driver is the Bosch CLPK27-120 12V Max 2-Tool Combo Kit because it pairs a compact 930 in-lb impact driver with a precise pocket drill driver. It is light, compact and comfortable to use.
