All mechanics ensure top-quality mechanic tools in their arsenal. A cordless impact driver is one such tool to help them complete their work quickly and efficiently. So, the Rxmechanic team has launched a hunt across the net to find their target cordless impact drivers. The research has led us to several products, but we have tested those in various applications to find the best performer. Consequently, we have found these 10 to be the best cordless impact drivers for mechanics. Beyond doubt, these are all great options for mechanics looking to get their work done quickly and efficiently while maintaining accuracy and precision.
Our Top 3 Cordless Impact Drivers
The Best Cordless Impact Drivers
1. DEWALT 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit
DEWALT is among the well-known brands for its high-quality tools. Their cordless impact driver is an incredible and easy-to-use the tool. It is made with an ergonomic design, which enables it to work even in tight spaces. DEWALT 20V MAX cordless impact driver has a great rotation speed and an impressive amount of power. It is the ideal tool for drilling, unscrewing, screwing, and reverse drilling, even for long hours.
Dewalt dcf885c1 20v max 1/4 impact driver is a compact and lightweight impact driver, is 5.55 inches, and is 2.8 lbs. It features an inbuilt LED with a 20-second delay after releasing the trigger. This increases your visibility when working. Its hex chuck has a decent size of ¼, which also fits 1-inch bit tips. This cordless impact driver has a powerful motor with a no-load speed of 2800 RPM.
DEWALT 20V MAX impact drives kit with one fast charger, one 20v MAX battery of 1.5 amperes, and DCF885 Impact Driver. It has a nominal voltage of 18. Some people say the driver’s battery does not last for long, but it depends on how you are using it.
- Compact and lightweight
- Have a maximum torque of 1400 inches/lbs
- Have a 20-volt battery
- High motor speed 2800 RPM
- Inbuilt LED for increased visibility
- Decent and high-quality builds
- Comfortable and ergonomic handle for grip
- It is cordless and versatile
- You can easily change the motor speed
- The battery may not last for too long
2. Makita CT225R 18V Compact Cordless
Makita CT225R is a compact and cordless impact driver built for professionals who demand high-class drivers for fastening, driving, and drilling. This driver has an 18v lithium-ion side-style battery. This battery features the highest charge time. This means that they take less time to charge and spend more time working.
This best Makita impact driver is made with star protection computer controls, which extends its battery life and improves tool performance. Star protection is a communication technology that allows the battery and the tool to exchange data in real-time. It also monitors the conditions of the tool when in use to protect it from overheating, over-discharging, and overloading.
Makita CT225R driver increases its versatility since it includes a ½ inch driver drill. This impact driver has two variable speeds providing a maximum torque of up to 1460 pounds. The driver weighs 2.8 pounds together with the battery. The battery gets to full charge in 25 minutes. The 18v compact lithium-ion battery is can also work with 18v LXT tools.
- Have 2 variant speeds
- Built with a star protection technology
- The battery has the fastest charge time
- The battery offers 50% more run time per charge
- ½ driver-drill increases versatility
- Have a compact design
- Weighs 2.8lbs with battery
- Have inbuilt LED to illuminate the work area
- The plate is a little weak
3. Milwaukee 2853-20 M18 Hex Impact Driver
Milwaukee 2853-20 hex is the most powerful, most compact, and fastest cordless impact driver in this class. This cordless driver has a length of 18 inches, and it allows one to access tight spaces. It features a 4-mode drive control, which provides you with greater control over power and speed for more versatility. This M18 impact driver comes with a self-tapping screw, thus providing faster installation time by minimizing the stripping of fasteners.
Milwaukee hex impact driver features a POWERSTATE brushless motor. This motor provides you with up to 30% faster driving speed, thus increasing your productivity. This tool also comes with a built-in REDLINK PLUS Intelligence for maximum performance. This feature protects the driver from overloading, which would cause damage to the tool and battery. This Milwaukee impact driver has a torque of 1800lbs.
- Features a POWERSTATE brushless motor
- Has 30% more driving speed
- Delivers maximum productivity
- Has greater control of power and speed
- It is compact
- Able to access tight spaces
- REDLINK PLUS Intelligence for overload protection
- It wobbles
- Require more resistance to kick in
4. Bosch IDH182-02 Cordless Impact Driver
Bosch IDH182-02 is a great impact driver to get your job done. It is a versatile tool with brushless ½ and ¼ sockets. It also has a socket-ready adapter featuring ½ inch square drive and ¼ inch hex in a single tool. This impact driver has an EC brushless motor providing up to 2 times the motor life. This motor also gives the driver superior efficiency even when working for long hours and with no maintenance. You, therefore, do more work with this impact driver in a day and over its life.
Bosch IDH cordless impact driver has an electronic motor and cell protection, which prevents the tool from overloading and overheating for extended runtime and tool life. This cordless impact driver features a performance control system allowing the users to choose between 3 driving speeds. You can also be able to change the torque settings with just a push of a button.
This Bosch cordless impact driver is the best and most comfortable cordless impact driver in the ergonomics class due to its small grip diameter. This Bosch kit comes with one belt clip, one double-ended impact bit, two 18v lithium-ion slim pack batteries, one 18v impact driver, and a carrying bag. This cordless driver provides you with endurance, versatility, and power.
- Has an ergonomic design
- It is versatile
- Comes with two lithium-ion batteries
- Has an EC brushless motor
- The motor has an extended life
- Have a long driving runtime
- Cell protection prevents overloading and overheating
- Have three driving speeds
- Hallows the user torque settings
- Have a small grip diameter
- Comfortable to carry around
- It is a half wrench and half driver
- It is impact
- 2 in a 1-bit holder
- 3 LED for maximum illumination
- The chunk is a bit deeper than normal
- Not strong for big projects
5. PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit
PORTER-CABLE MAX is a powerful impact driver which helps you to work with difficult materials in an easy process. This tool helps professionals and DIYers to handle a variety of projects. The best thing about this impact driver is that it weighs 3 pounds, making it easy to work with. It also has an extremely comfortable grip enabling you to work with the tool for hours without getting tired.
PORTER-CABLE impact driver comes with a brushless motor which gives it 50% more runtime. It delivers high torque for large fastening projects at both 1400 and 2900 RPM. The impact driver is made with an ergonomic design. It is 145 shorter and more compact than the previous model. This drive features an easy change chunk enabling the user to change the bits easily with one hand.
PCCK647LB impact driver may not be the most powerful, but it is quite durable. The two batteries of two lithium-ion included in the kit charge quickly and ran for a long time. This 20v impact driver features an inbuilt LED l9ghts for illuminating your workplace. This Porter-Cable kit includes one PCC699L charger, two PCC680L Batteries, and one Impact Driver.
- Have a 20v battery system
- Quick and easy to change bits with one hand
- Have 50% more runtime
- It is lightweight
- Feature a comfortable and ergonomic grip
- Has 1400lbs torque for large fastening applications
- The transmission provides 2700 MAX RPM’s
- Comes with two lithium-ion batteries
- The batteries run for long and charge quickly
- Have inbuilt LED light for illumination
- Have no speed settings
6. Makita XDT131 18V LXT Cordless Impact Driver
Makita XDT131 is among the best impact drivers for HVAC, as it delivers maximum performance and versatility. It is designed for a variety of fastening and driving tasks, such as fastening cabinet screws, TEK screws, deck screws, and tightening down lag bolts. It is an ideal cordless impact driver for pro contractors, remodelers, woodworkers, HVAC, automotive mechanics, plumbers, and electricians looking for a quality tool.
Makita XDT131 LXT cordless impact driver comes along with its 18V LXT 3.0Ah battery. This battery has a short charge time of 30 minutes, which is the fastest charge time in this tool category. The battery, therefore, increases your productivity and reduces downtime since it will run for long hours and charge for only thirty minutes. Makita’s brushless motor gives it a 50% longer run life and increased speed and power.
This Makita 18V impact driver features a convenient ¼ hex chunk for easy and quick bit changes. Its brushless motor offers a maximum torque of 1500 lbs. The cordless impact driver has variable speeds of 0-3400 RPM and 0-3600 RPM, enabling you to work on a wide range of fastening tasks. Makita XDT131 is made with a compact design with a length of 5 inches and a weight of 3.3 lbs to reduce fatigue.
Makita XDT131 LXT driver has Star protection power controls for efficient power management. It prevents the impact driver from overheating, over-discharging, and overloading. This tool also features built-in dual LED lights to illuminate your work area. Its grip is soft and rubberized, thus increasing comfort when working. This Makita kit includes an 18-volt LXT lithium-ion charger, an 18-volt LXT lithium 3.0Ah battery, an 18-volt brushless impact driver, and an aluminum tool bag.
- Ergonomic and compact design
- Soft and comfortable grip
- Have variable speeds
- Have 50% longer run time
- BL brushless motor optimize battery energy
- Weighs 3.3 lbs to reduce user fatigue
- Battery charges in 30 minutes
- In-built dual LED for illuminating work area
- Hex chunk is convenient for quick bit changes
- Comes with an aluminum toolbox
- Not the lightest impact driver
- The carrying bag is small
7. Hitachi WH18DGL 18-Volt Cordless Impact Driver
Hitachi cordless impact driver is a well-known Japanese brand for power tools. Its WH18DGL cordless impact driver has a great built and durability. This cordless impact tool delivers up to 1280 inch/lbs turning torque. It is capable of driving fasteners even to the tightest spaces due to its cordless design.
This impact driver has a variable speed. You can choose between speeds of 2400 rounds per minute and 3200 blows in a minute. You are, therefore, free to tailor the power output depending on the task you are doing.
Hitachi WH18DGL impact driver has a length of 6.1 inches and a weight of 3.1 lbs. It has the power to deal even with the most stubborn bolts and screws. This kit comes with two BSL1815S lithium-ion slide batteries. These batteries are light and have a long runtime.
This Hitachi tool features a ¼ quick-change chunk, which enables you to replace bits easily and quickly. It also has inbuilt LED lights which provide lighting to the area you are working on. The free-standing design enables the tool to stand upright in between the uses. It is a combination of great design, quality, and power.
- Have a high torque of 1280 in/lbs
- Variable speed of 24000RPM and 3200BPM
- Can work in tight spaces
- LED provides light in dark workspaces
- Comes with two lithium-ion batteries
- Ideal for handling tough jobs
- Lightweight design
- Simple and quick to replace bits
- Batteries offer fade-free power
- Does not come with a belt clip
- Does not have a state of charge
8. Ingersoll Rand W7150-K1 Hi-Torque Impact
Ingersoll Rand W7150-K1impact driver delivers exceptional torque output in a cordless and lightweight design. This is among the best Ingersoll Rand cordless impact wrench, which offers uncompromising cordless performance. It delivers a torque of up to 1100 foot-pounds and 780 ft-lbs reverse torque. This ½ air impact wrench tackles even the most demanding disassembly and assembly jobs.
With this powerful torque, you can comfortably work on heavy-duty applications like heavy equipment repair and suspension work. Ingersoll Rand W7150-K1 is among the best cordless wrench, thus giving you the freedom to work anywhere. It has a weight of 6.8 pounds and a length of 9.4 inches. Every function, mechanism, and component in this tool has gone through vigorous testing to ensure durability and long-lasting performance.
It has an ergonomic and soft handle offering comfort even on extended use. This Hi-Torque impact wrench is made with durable construction to withstand harsh usage. This Ingersoll Rand kit includes a 20V lithium-ion 3.0Ah battery, IQV20 charger with auxiliary USB port, W7150 impact wrench, and a blow-molded case.
- Ergonomic and soft handle for comfort
- Has a high torque of 1100 ft-lb
- Has a reverse torque of 780 ft-lb
- Comes in an impact-resistant case for protection
- Has a cordless design
- Reliable and durable
- Uses a reliable lithium-ion battery
- It is heavy
- Fails to slow down after letting off the trigger after some time
9. DEWALT DCF887B 3-Speed Impact Driver
DEWALT DCF887B is a lightweight and compact 3-speed cordless impact driver that makes your job easy. Its compact design enables it to access tight spaces, making it one of the best Dewalt impact drivers. It features a DEWALT-built brushless motor for faster run time. This driver has the same power and runtime as the DCB200 but in a shorter and lighter package. It is equipped with a built-in LED light with a 20-second delay after releasing the trigger. You, therefore, do not have to worry when working in a dark space.
Among the most outstanding things about this DEWALT cordless impact driver is its three variable speeds. It has a no-load speed of 0 to 1000, 2800, and 3250. This gives the operator the freedom to choose the ideal speed depending on the task they are doing. The driver has no self-discharge nor memory loss, resulting in less downtime and maximum productivity.
- Compact and lightweight
- Able to access tight spaces
- 3 variable speeds
- No self-discharge nor memory loss
- Have less downtime and optimal productivity
- DEWALT brushless motor increases its runtime
- Does not come with a charger and battery
10. Greenworks 24V Impact Driver
This is a 24V impact driver from Greenworks Company. The Greenworks 24V cordless impact driver features a highly efficient brushless motor that provides quiet operation, more torque, and longer life. The tool is powered by a 24 Greenworks 24V lithium battery delivering fade-free power. It also ensures there is no memory loss after charging.
Greenworks 24V cordless impact driver is built with a convenient LED light that offers light when working in poorly lit spaces. Thanks to its cushioned grip, it is easier to control and comfortable using the impact driver even for long hours. It comes along with a belt clip that you can use to free your hands when handling other tasks. This driver has 3 electronic variable speeds, including 0-450RPM, 0-380 RPM, and 2,666in/lbs of torque.
Greenworks 24V impact driver features a ¼ inches hex release coupler, which makes it easy and quick for the user to change bits. Greenworks kit includes one charger, two batteries, ¼ inches brushless impact driver, one ½ inch brushless driver, and a bag. The USB port in the battery charges any portable electronic devices such as phones and tablets.
- Uses a 24V ion battery
- Has a highly proficient brushless motor
- The motor is quiet during the operation
- Comes as ½ inch and ¼-inch brushless impact drivers
- ¼ inch hex release for quick changing of bits
- Cushioned and comfortable grip
- Has a belt clip
- Convenient inbuilt LED
- The USB port can charge other electronic devices
- A bit bulky
Cordless Impact Driver Buyers Guide
There is a wide selection of cordless impact drivers in hardware stores, and you may be confused about which one to buy. Here are the features and specs you should take into consideration when buying a cordless impact driver:
Torque
One of the major differences between manual drivers and cordless impact drivers is the amount of torque they send to the fastener. Cordless impact drivers deliver more torque compared to standard drivers. The tool reduces fatigue for the user and increases effectiveness. Different models offer different speed settings. Therefore consider the torque of the cordless impact driver to get the one that gives you maximum control in your tasks. Most of these cordless impact drivers feature an internal circuitry that retakes torque to the fastener to reduce kickback.
RPM
A cordless impact driver produces more RPM when working on heavy-duty jobs compared to standard drills. The many rounds per minute give a bit more force, thus making the job smooth and fast. The tool drives faster when there is high RPM. Check at the RPM of an impact driver before you buy it. High RPM protects the bits when drilling. It prevents the motor from burning out or overheating when driving long screws or lugs on thick surfaces.
Brushless or Brushed Motors
There are two types of motors used in an impact driver. The motor can either be brushed or brushless. Brushless motors do not feature any brush which wears down after long usage. This, therefore, reduces motor maintenance. Consider cordless impact drivers with brushless motors since they increase their efficiency and workload. These motors have a longer run time and prevent tool overheating.
Indicators and LED Lights
LED lights and indicators are popular in top-rated impact drivers. LED lights offer you illumination when working on poorly lit areas under the car hood or in the closest. It is prudent to consider buying a cordless impact drill with an LED light. You, however, can bark this light up with a high-lumen LED torch for proper lighting.
Chunk
The chunk size determines the size of the bits you are going to use. The most popular chunk size is ½ inches, but also ¼ inches works well. Small bits are ideal for jobs that need less torque while large bits are used in heavy-duty jobs. Also, consider a keyless chuck, which allows you to replace bits faster. Some cordless impact drivers feature built-in controls for easy and fast bit replacement.
Ergonomics
Cordless impact drivers come in different sizes. Most of the modern drivers are compact and lightweight. Consider an impact driver that you can carry in your job site effortlessly. Compact and light cordless impact drivers are comfortable to use and reduce operator fatigue. The compact design also assists in balancing weight, making it more ergo-friendly. More torque goes right to the fastener, thus pulling away shock from the user.
Battery Life
It is crucial to check the life of the cordless impact driver battery before you buy. Most of the modern impact drivers use lithium-ion batteries. These batteries charge up faster and also hold a charge for longer than nickel batteries. Lithium-ion batteries weigh less and deliver more power. This makes the cordless impact drill lighter and easier to use.
Electronic or Adjustable Clutch
Most cordless impact drivers either have an electronic or adjustable clutch. The clutch controls the amount of power sent to the fastener, helping you to avoid damaging the hardware or screw head. An electronic clutch reduces torque automatically when the driver gets excess resistance while working. A clutch provides you more finesse and control when on the job.
Benefits of Cordless Impact Driver
Cordless impact drivers are used for various tasks, from tightening screws to building decks. Impact drivers are used for removing vehicle brake drums, driving thick and long fasteners to hard materials, loosening corroded and over-torqued nuts, bolts, and screws, and driving self-threading screws. This tool is highly beneficial for cabinet makers, construction workers, and any other job which requires using several fasteners. So what are the benefits of cordless impact drivers compared to drills? Here are the pros of using a cordless impact driver over drills:
High Torque
Cordless impact drivers are five times more powerful than standard drivers and drills. Therefore, they are the ideal choice when you want to drive in screws in tough and thick materials. Their high torque makes your work smoother and fast.
Self-Driving Screws
Cordless impact drivers are beneficial when using self-driving screws that do not need you to drill a hole. These activities need a driver with higher torque and can only be delivered by cordless impact drivers.
Fits in Tight Spaces
Most of the cordless impact drivers are made with a compact design. Unlike other standard drills and drivers, they are easy and comfortable to hold even for long hours. Impact drivers have a shorter head length than a drill, which enables them to work even in tight places.
No Stripping of Screws and Recoiling
When using a cordless impact driver, you will experience less or no recoil or kickback. If you have used the normal drills, you have most probably experienced kickbacks. Since cordless impact drills are compact, there is an equal distribution of weight, which reduces kickbacks. They also have immense power, which also contributes to avoiding kickbacks when met with resistance.
Easy to Use
Cordless impact drills are easy to use since they are lighter, and you do not experience kickbacks. Therefore, you can use these drivers for a long time without getting fatigued, unlike when using cordless drills. Most of the impact drivers come with comfortable grips for more comfort during use.
How to Use a Cordless Impact Driver
Now that you have bought the right cordless impact driver, you need to know how to use it. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a cordless impact driver.
Step 1: Insert the Battery
Before you start using an impact driver, confirm if the battery is inserted or not. The tool must be switched off when checking on the battery. If there is no battery, insert it accurately by sliding it into the tool’s handle. You will know it has fitted well when you hear a “Click” sound.
Step 2: Choose the Right Bit
Choose the right bit to use on the task at hand. Ensure that the bit you have chosen will fit the screw size which you want to loosen or fasten. Always check the bits shank end to confirm that it is clean and does not have any damage. You can use a bit holder when dealing with short bits since it features a magnetic end for holding the bits.
Step 3: Attach Bit to the Chunk
Put the bit in the chunk, hold it using one hand, pull it up, and use the other hand to insert the bit.
Step 4: Adjust the impact Driver
After putting the bits securely in the chunk, adjust the reverse and forward switch, which serves your purpose when using the impact driver. Also, adjust the bit’s position shorter or longer for perfect and comfortable work. The right position will assist you in attaining the target irrespective of the task. Move the bits backward or forward using the backward/forward button.
Step 5: Select the right speed
Set the speed of the cordless impact drill, depending on your job. The speed might vary depending on the hardness or size of the material. Choose the speed to fulfill your task.
Step 6: Use LED Light
Cordless impact drivers have a variety of features, and one of them is LED lights. If the impact driver you are using has an LED light, then this is the time to light it up. This light will offer you illumination when working in a dark area. Light the LED light by pressing the power button.
Step 7: Turn On the Tool
After adjusting all the things correctly, you can turn on the cordless impact driver. Check if everything is okay and take a position. Squeeze the trigger slowly for the bit and the chuck to rotate in the required direction. You can decrease or increase the rotation speed based on your requirements when working.
Step 8: Turn Off the Tool
After finishing your work, turn off the cordless impact drive and put it aside for energy-saving and safety purposes. Put the impact driver on a flat surface and wait for the bits and other parts to cool down.
Step 9: Remove the Bits
Once it is cold, remove the parts that were added. Remove the bits from the chuck in the same way you inserted it. Hold the chunk with one hand, jerk it frontward, and then pull the bit with the other hand. You can also remove the battery and put it safe until the next use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What Is The Best Battery Powered Impact Driver?
There are various brands offering battery-powered impact drivers in the market today. The best cordless impact driver will depend on your needs. In the above article, we have selected the best impact drivers from different companies. They all have their pros and cons. It is crucial to check on the features of each impact driver before the purchase.
Among the best impact drivers is DEWALT 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit. This DEWALT battery-powered impact driver is made with an ergonomic design to fit tight areas. It is easy to load the bits with one hand and have an LED, which gives more visibility to poorly lit places. It is important that you read the other battery-powered impact drivers discussed above to see the one that would fit your needs properly.
Q. What Is The Best 12 Volt Impact Driver?
Like I always say, the best 12-volt impact driver depends on what you are looking for. Different brands have their pros and cons. An impact driver can only be good for you if it fulfills your requirements. However, among the best 12-volt impact drivers, you will get in the market are Dewalt and Bosch.
These are among the best brands in the tool markets best known for their high-quality products. The Dewalt 12v impact driver is made with a lightweight and compact design making it fit to work even in tight areas. The cordless impact driver delivers up to 2450 RPM and a maximum of 3400IPM of power, which is ideal for a wide range of tasks.
The Bosch impact driver, on the other hand, is well known for its convenience, longevity, lightweight, and compact design. This impact driver gives a maximum torque of 98-in/lbs. It also delivers a maximum of 2600 RPM and up to 3100BPM. Look at the features of each 12V cordless impact driver and get the one that fits your needs.
Q. What Cordless Impact Has The Most Torque?
Different cordless impact drivers offer different torques. One feature you need to consider when buying an impact driver is torque. You should always base your torque on the task. One of the best impact drivers for heavy-duty applications and high volume is DEWALT DCF887M2. This cordless impact driver delivers a powerful torque of 1825 in/lbs. This is far more torque than what is provided by other cordless impact drivers.
Q. What Is The Difference Between a 1/4 and 1/2 Impact Driver?
Impact drivers make it easy to fasten or remove lag screws or lag bolts. A cordless impact driver can either support a ½ inch bit or ¼ inch bit. Most of the common cordless impact drivers use ¼ inches bits since they are more ideal for smaller screws. ½ inch impact driver delivers too much torque to the bolts or screws, causing them to snap or strip.
½ impact drivers are ideal for more difficult tasks that cannot be done by ¼ inches impact drivers. Some cordless impact drivers such as Makita CT225R come along with a ½ driver drill to increase versatility. If you were working on a wide range of jobs, it would be prudent to buy a package that comes with both ½ and ¼ impact drivers such as Greenworks impact driver.
Q. Is Dewalt or Milwaukee Better?
Milwaukee, Makita, and Dewalt are among the most popular brands in the market. These two brands are well known for their high-quality tools. It would be difficult to state which of the two brands is better than the other. The best one between Dewalt vs. Milwaukee will depend on the type of tool you want to buy and how you want to use it. They both have their advantages and disadvantages. Milwaukee is best known for its long warrants for its products, but both of their cordless impact drivers deliver exceptional power. Get to know your needs and then choose the tool with the right features to fulfill your task.
Final Words
Cordless impact drivers are powerful tools that any professional or serious DIYer should have in their toolbox. With the many choices in the market, it might be difficult to get the right one, but we have narrowed down the choices for you. When getting the best cordless impact driver, look at its battery life, size, weight, RPM, and power rating. Impact drivers will ease your work by driving long screws into hard materials. It is also an ideal tool for unfastening tight, over-torqued or rusted screws and nuts. It is a better choice compared to drills since it fits in tight areas, has higher torque, is ease to use, and has fewer or no kickbacks.