Dweller Power is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more
We’re back with more Impact Driver topics – like what really is the best impact driver for the money? It’s a common question of the audience, DIY’ers, and enthusiasts. So let’s discuss this.
When struggling and failing is your expectation, the powerful Cordless Impact Driver will rescue you. Products such as sheds, decks, and so on require a drill that matches their help. Our recommended Cordless Impact Drivers stand out for their ability to do the job.
There’s three things you need to remember when buying the best Impact Driver for the money: Power, Torque, and Speed.
Don’t waste your time doing tons of research to figure out if a cordless drill will work for you or not. We’ve curated a list of the best impact driver for the money so all you have to do is read them and shop with confidence.
Don’t have time To read? No worries!
Below are our top picks for your convenience
Dweller Power’s Best Pick
Best Impact Driver For The Money
DEWALT DCF787C1 Impact Driver Kit
- Brushless motor for increased runtime and durability
- LED Light with 20 second delay after trigger release
- Compact and Lightweight for hard to reach areas
Runner Up
Ryobi P234g One+
- Delivers 1,500 Lbs of Torque
- Quick Bit Changes w/ Quick Connect Coupler
- OnBoard Magnetic Holder
2nd Runner Up
Milwaukee 2656-20 M18
- Variable Speed Trigger – up to 3,450 Impacts Per Minute
- Ergonomic Textured Handle
- REDLINK Battery Technology
10 Best
Impact Driver For The Money
#1 DEWALT DCF787C1 Impact Driver Kit – Best Impact Driver For The Money
Features:
- Brushless motor for increased runtime and durability
- LED Light with 20 second delay after trigger release
- Compact and Lightweight for hard to reach areas
The DEWALT DCF787C1 is the latest impact driver addition to the family. It’s a development of many years of experience, of listening to our users and improving on our designs. We like to think that for those who don’t have time to research for their dream tool, the DEWALT DCF787C1 is a great fit..
Review:
When it comes to professional convenience, DEWALT is the trusted name for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. The DEWALT DCF787C1 20V Max Li-Ion 1/4″ Cordless Impact Driver Kit with 3 LED Light set is an excellent example of why. Available on Amazon, it helps to resolve common visibility issues while also improving convenience and ergonomics.
The 20-Volt MAX* LITHIUM-ION batteries deliver more torque and run time, so you’ll get the job done. And the Durable Metal Construction gives you long-lasting impact performance. And the DEWALT DCF787C1 runs 57% longer than the brushed motor version because of the brushless motor, which gives you more endurance.
Forget about the power tools that make your hands go numb. Let’s explore a new, better way to get your work done with the help of the DEWALT DCF787C1. This smooth, lightweight, and compact power tool designs to make your work simpler, faster, and easier as it is designed for comfort with its adjustable settings.
This DEWALT impact driver is a well-made, compact drill that’s great for basic driving tasks around the house or on the job. If you don’t need to handle larger nuts and bolts, this one is definitely worth checking out. This is one nifty little gadget that can solve a lot of your daily problems. The small flaw in this product is overshadowed by its many useful features.
All that said, we wholly believe this is the best Impact Driver for the Money.
Pros
- Best Impact Driver for the Money
- Prolonged Run Time
- LED Attachment
- One-Hand Loading available
- Compact
- 3-year warranty
Pros
- Can’t be used for larger nuts
#2 Ryobi P234g One+ – Runner Up
Features:
- DELIVERS 1,500 POUNDS OF TORQUE to take on tough applications
- QUICK BIT CHANGES due to the 1/4-inch quick connect coupler
- ONBOARD MAGNETIC HOLDER for easy access or storage of your fasteners
- ALUMINUM CAST GEAR HOUSING for durability and stability
- ONBOARD BIT STORAGE for added convenience
Review:
When it comes to a portable drill, you want to have the best performance and most features possible. That’s why Ryobi introduced the new P234g One plus impact driver. It has everything you need to get the job done
This Ryobi impact driver may be the world’s most compact single-tool screw driving solution.
A small and lightweight impact driver helps save your hand from pain. The Keyless Chuck allows for quick and easy bit changes, so you can work in tight spaces without getting frustrated.
The MagTray, a Ryobi Exclusive feature, holds your screws and bits, keeping them within reach without dropping them to the ground.
We loved the Ryobi cordless impact driver the most because of its power and its dual-action motor. We believe that the Ryobi impact driver is one the best impact driver for the money on the market. It is easy to use, swift in action and incredibly powerful.
The dual motor function is a great time saver and its light weight construction means that it can easily adjust to various angles whilst remaining strong and sturdy.
And that’s why it’s second in our list of the best impact driver for the money.
Pros:
- Perfect for heavy-duty work
- On-board bit change
- High torque
- Tri bean LED lights
- Lightweight
- Powerful
Cons:
- Battery Not Included
- Power Tool Only
- Short in length
#3 Milwaukee 2656-20 M18 – 2nd Runner Up
Features:
- LED LIGHTING: Keep your work illuminated with the LED lighting array located just below the quick-connect chuck
- TEXTURED HANDLE: The compact design of this power tool is complemented with the textured rubber grip, which gives you superior handling, even in slippery conditions
- VARIABLE SPEED TRIGGER: Apply pressure to the trigger to match the amount of power you need on the job. This can drive the motor to create up to 3,450 impacts per minute
- REDLINK TECHNOLOGY: Electronics inside the impact driver communicate with the M18 batteries that power it to reduce the risk of overheating, which results in more efficient work
- M18 COMPATIBLE: This cordless Milwaukee impact driver works with the M18 family of lithium ion batteries. Compatible models include the 48-11-1860, 48-11-1850, 48-11-1828, and 48-11-1815, 48-11-1840, 48-11-1820
Review:
When you’re looking for a little bit of everything in a single tool, you’ll want to invest in the Milwaukee 2656-20 impact driver. Read further below and be convinced why we think this is a great candidate for the best impact driver for the money.
This mighty little power tool carries high-performance capabilities, high-end materials, and fully customizable features, giving you an essential piece of equipment for any situation on the job site.
The Milwaukee 2656-20 impact driver is built with a one-of-a-kind 4-pole brushless motor that provides an impressive and efficient amount of torque. The power tool offers both variable speeds and a push button to match the user’s comfort level.
Built with high precision, this drill emits just as much power as other models on the market, while weighing only .9 pounds. This diminutive 18-volt device is easy to take on the go, and can fit.
The Milwaukee 2656-20 M18 Hex Impact Driver has REDLINK Technology, a communication system designed to integrate the power tool with the battery. This communication system prevents overheating and damage, so you can use this impact driver without worry.
The Milwaukee 2656-20 M18 Hex Impact Driver makes more jobs easier and faster. It’s powerful and tough enough to perform even when others falter. It’s small, too! While its small frame doesn’t limit its performance, it does make it a convenient choice for jobs around the house.
Now, Milwaukee has designed the 2656-20 M18 Hex Impact Driver. It’s ergonomic and features LED lights to make dark conditions less of a problem. You’ll have increased efficiency, reduced injuries and improved comfort over all.
Imagine a world where you can drive 2 inch screws and lag bolts. It’s not difficult, but it is extraordinary. No more stripped screw heads or split wood. The Milwaukee 2656-20 M18 Hex Impact Driver will do all the work for you.
This game changing solution will allow you to work at your own speed. Plus, the impact driver features an ergonomic handle, keeping your hands comfortable while driving long screws into various surfaces like wood and metal.
When you need to drive in screws quickly and at high speed, this impact driver makes one heck of a difference. It drives in three-inch screws (and longer) without skipping a beat. With a rate of 3,400 impacts per minute, you can get your job done sooner and faster than ever.
One thing this driver does not have going for it however is its weight; weighing in at 2 pounds, this is definitely on the heavy side of things. Although heavier than other tools out there, once you get passed the weight, you will see what this tool is most known for.
Pros:
- LED Lighting
- Variable Speed Trigger
- M18 lithium-ion batteries
- Superior Handling
Cons:
- Heavy but small
- Switch tends to disconnect after prolonged use
#4 BLACK+DECKER BDCI20C 20V MAX
Features:
- HIGH PERFORMANCE IMPACT SCREWDRIVER – Lightweight impact driver for fast, high- powered screw driving action
- COMPACT AND LIGHTWEIGHT – Easy to maneuver and lightweight, with soft-touch grip
- QUICK-RELEASE HEX CHUCK – Features 1⁄4-inch quick-release hex chuck for quickly swapping out hex bits
- POWER IN YOUR HANDS – Delivers 1375 inch- pounds of max torque for fast and efficient driving of screws and other fasteners
- INTERCHANGEABLE BATTERY – Powered by the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* Powerconnect Lithium-Ion battery system
Review:
If you want to get the job done quickly and easily, choose a driver with maximum impact. This 20V impact driver from Black & Decker gives you 1375 inch/lbs. of power to get through any job. For an added level of safety, this tool features a keyless chuck that allows you to insert and remove the hardware without using a separate wrench.
This driver’s lightweight design and compact size make it a cinch to haul around when you need power that hasn’t been tethered down. The variable speed allows you to dial in the exact RPM you need for any job, and the precision drive system keeps delivering high torque and reliable accuracy even at slower speeds. The convenient 20V battery means you won’t have to touch your charger until your work is done.
When you need more power, more speed and more durability, trust the BLACK+DECKER BDCI20C 20V MAX Lithium Impact Driver. It’s a great addition to your collection because it’s compatible with over half of all Black & Decker products and all Craftsman bolt-on products.
Black & Decker’s impact driver is the perfect addition to your tool collection. With this bad boy, all of your DIY projects will be a total breeze and at a very affordable price.
Definitely one of the best impact driver for the money!
Pros:
- Great Torque
- Very Powerful
- 2-year Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty
- Automatic oiling with window
- Affordable
Cons:
- Don’t over tighten. This impact driver takes a lot of power to screw into place, and as such it can easily strip the threads.
#5 Makita XDT131 18V LXT
Features:
- BL Brushless motor delivers 1, 500 inches pounds Of max torque
- Variable speed (0 3, 400 RPM and 0 3, 600 IPM) for a wide range of fastening applications
- The BL Brushless motor eliminates carbon brushes, enabling the BL motor to run cooler and more efficiently for longer life
- Efficient BL Brushless motor is electronically controlled to optimize battery energy use for up to 50 percentage longer run time per charge
- The electronically controlled BL Brushless motor efficiently uses energy to match torque and RPM to the changing demands of the application
Review:
It’s simple. The Makita XDT131 18V Brushless drill is a speedy (cord-free) power tool that can do a lot of your work in just a fraction of the time that it would take you using one of those “old-fashioned” tools.
The best thing about this great drill is that it will have a soft start feature, meaning you won’t accidentally break the material you are drilling. This makes it really easy to do precise work, in fact it’s considered one of the best drills for precise work on the market right now. The Makita XDT131 18V Brushless drill has a variable speed range up to 0-3400 RPM with a 0-3600 IPM and offers an outstanding power-to
The Makita XDT131 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Impact Driver packs maximum power with its brushless motor and drives even the most stubborn screws. The Li-ion battery charges quickly and provides extended runtime.
The XDT131 is the new member in our 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Impact Driver family and the most powerful member on this family. With five times more torque than any other LXT brushless impact driver, you no longer have to worry about your projects becoming too lazy for it. Now, you can also effortlessly perform your woodwork, plumbing, automotive engineering, or home remodeling tasks with the same ease as cutting butter with a hot knife!
The Makita XDT131 18V LXT Cordless Impact Driver Kit is designed to provide you with the most efficient and versatile solution for any driving or tightening project. With its brushless motor, it will deliver maximum performance under heavy-duty conditions that would wear out other tools.
Makita has the most powerful impact driver (XDT131 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Impact Driver), at least according to its many satisfied customers. Users claim that this product has an amazing power to drive screws even faster, in any weather and condition. The Makita impact driver is, indeed, a multifunctional tool that can fit into any household or workshop.
This cordless impact driver’s only issue is its variable speed controller, and although it is difficult to control at first, it is not a very big issue. It’s best if you leave the job in the hands of an experienced user, but anybody who has used a cordless impact driver before can figure it out.
Practical, powerful, and compact, the Makita XDT131 18V Lithium-Ion Cordless Impact Driver Kit is a worthy investment for any homeowner. If you want top power and productivity on tight spaces, invest in one of the best impact driver for the money, the Makita XDT131 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Impact Driver Kit!
Pros:
- StarProtection technology for overheating, overloading and over-discharging.
- Ergonomic Handle Design
- Powerful Brushless Motor
- 1,500 Max Torque
- 18V Li-ion fastest charging battery
Cons:
- Need lots of practice before you can control it properly
#6 Milwaukee 2462-20 M12
Features:
- LED LIGHTING: Keep your work subject illuminated with the trigger-activated LED light panel located above and in front of the trigger. Its location prevents any shadows from being cast by your trigger finger
- ONBOARD FUEL GAUGE: LED lights on the side of the impact driver let you know, in increments of 25%, how much battery you have left
- AMBIDEXTROUS BELT CLIP: Whether you’re right or left-handed, you can keep the included belt clip attached on the side of the driver that is most convenient for you
- REDLITHIUM TECHNOLOGY: This driver has internal computer technology that communicates with RedLithium batteries powering it. It enables cross-communication between the two systems, keeping the tool’s motor from overheating or drawing more power than it can handle
- M12 COMPATIBLE: This tool will function with the batteries in the Milwaukee M12 lineup. These include the 48-59-1201, 48-11-1970, 48-11-2401, 48-11-2430, 48-11-2460, 48-11-2420, 48-11-2402, and 48-11-2440
Review:
The Milwaukee 2462-20 does so much more than the leading cordless drills on the market. It has a powerhouse motor that delivers up to 1,000 in.-lbs. of torque at 2,500 RPM, which helps the drill drive fasteners with maximum power.
The Milwaukee 2462-20 M12 1/4 Inch Hex Shank Impact Driver utilizes Redlithium technology to ensure that it delivers the same power and torque every time even as its battery winds down.
Redlithium is a versatile innovation that enables you to keep working even with a low battery. Through cross-communication with the RedLithium batteries, the impact driver’s motor does not exceed limitations of power consumption or heating up.
It also comes with a rubber-mold pistol grip. If you work in wet conditions, you’ll appreciate this little detail. The rubber-mold pistol grip ensures you hold on to the driver even when your hands get sweaty and gross from working hard in the rain (but that’s okay).
It’s one of the best and innovative features of the product. There is an LED light – fitted above your trigger for superior illumination – to provide perfect illumination at the desired time without obscuring your view. This feature ensures that you can work in areas with poor lighting.
If you’re new to the world of impact drivers, don’t fret. The Milwaukee 2462-20 M12 1/4 Inch Hex Shank Impact Driver offers plenty of power for its price and will impress even the most experienced DIY enthusiasts.
You’ll love how this power tool changes your perspective on your everyday tasks. The Milwaukee 2462-20 M12 1/4 Inch Hex Shank Impact Driver, makes jobs, like hanging cabinet doors, and assembling furniture so easy that you’ll wonder why you didn’t get one before.
For a budget-friendly choice, this 1/4inch impact driver is the best value. Another one in the list for the best impact driver for the money don’t you think?
Pros:
- RedLithium technology
- Budget-friendly
- Ergonomic Rubber Handle
- LED Lights
- LED Powered Fuel Gauge Monitor
- Powerful at 2,500 RPM
- Torque at 1,000 in-lbs
Cons:
- Extremely Noisy
#7 DEWALT DCF887D2 20V Brushless Impact Driver Kit
Features:
- Dewalt built Brushless Motor, Compact, Lightweight Design for tight spaces
- Variable speed trigger, no load speed 0 to 1000, 2800, 3250
- 3 speed settings for versatility with Precision Drive for added Control
- (3) LED lights with 20 second delay after trigger release
- No battery or charger Included
Review:
To get the most out of your DEWALT impact driver, you should go for a model which comes with brushless motor. You can only find it in the DCF887D2. The motor is designed to produce maximum power with little or no maintenance cost from its user.
Packed with power and speed, the DEWALT DCF887D2 20V Brushless Impact Driver Kit is the ultimate screwdriving machine. It’s powered by a DEWALT brushless motor that delivers increased run time over brushed models. The kit comes complete with two 20V MAX Lithium Ion batteries, a charger, and a convenient belt hook for greater control. The variable-speed impact driver features a ¼ inch hex chuck so you can get to work right away on
The DEWALT DCF887D2 is an incredibly simple electric screwdriver that’s designed to get the job done. It has a brushless motor and a 20V Li-Ion battery that provides more power to the screws, thus speeding up the process by 20% (or even 40%)!
Three strategically placed LEDs allow you to get the job done with ease, regardless of whether it is in broad daylight or complete darkness. Not only that, the tool has an ergonomic handle with a padded material that protects your palms from injury. The innovative brushless motor means uses fewer wear parts which means this tool will last for years.
The 20-second LED light stays on when your trigger finger is off the mouse. Also, three LEDs don’t cause shadows for working at night or in dark spaces.
This DEWALT DCF887D2 20V Brushless Impact Driver Kit has everything you need to complete your next project. This impact driver allows you to choose from three precise speeds. The 1/4-inch quick connect chuck is very easy to work with. When you have control over your power tool, you can get the job done just the way that you want it!
The main downside to this product is that one, it might not be for you. The DEWALT DCF887D2 20V Brushless Impact Driver Kit is not for everyone. If you’re just screwing in light bulbs or using drywall screws to hang paintings, maybe this isn’t the product for you. If you’re good at setting up tools, you might not like it because the impact settings are either too small or too much (once again, depending on your material and skill level).
Again – another one of Dweller Power’s favorite picks for the best impact driver for the money.
Pros:
- Easy handling
- Easy Grip Technology
- LED Technology
Compact and Portable
Cons:
- Not built for woodworks
- Too strong for lighter materials
#8 Ridgid R86035 Gen5X
Features:
- QUICK RELEASE CHUCK: You don’t need an extra tool, or even a battery powering your impact driver, to replace bits. All you need to do is pull the chuck’s collar back and the bit will eject
- 3 POWER MODES: Switch between 3 power modes, adjusting from 0 to 2,000 inch pounds of torque, to suit the task at hand
- TEXTURED GRIP: There is a rubber overmold on the impact driver’s pistol grip that allows you to have maximum control in slippery conditions
- LED LIGHTING: You can keep your working subject lit with the LED lighting around the chuck. There is a separate trigger that can activate them, letting you brighten your subject without activating the driver and wasting battery
Review:
If you’re looking for power for the best impact driver for the money, you’ve found it. This is one of the most powerful impact drivers available from Ridgid.
If you’re looking for an impact driver that can deliver power and performance every single time, this Ridgid impact driver will provide exactly what you need. With 2000 inch/lbs of torque and a 0-3,000impact/min speed, you can use this heavy-duty drill for any project around the home.
Powerful, Versatile, Maneuverable – This electric Impact Driver is more than just another cordless tool. With its 3-speed settings, you can adjust from smaller screws to larger bolts. The precise 2-finger trigger and overdrive power transmission allows you to handle the toughest jobs with ease. These features and more make this one of the best electric impact drivers around.
It’s always been tough to change bits on a cordless impact driver. Now there is no need to carry an extra wrench. Simply pull back the collar on your RIDGID Gen5X Impact Driver, and the bit ejects for easy access.
This tool has also got rechargeable LED lights, which is not only convenient for working in dark areas, but also remarkably efficient for saving power.
When it comes to the best impact driver for the money, there is only one you should consider. The Ridgid R86035 Gen5X Impact Driver is probably one of the best impact driver for the money because it features all the latest innovations in motor technology.
Pros:
- Flexible LED
- Ergonomic Handle
- Powerful Torque
Cons:
- Lack of Warranty Support
- Batteries not included
#9 Bosch PS42-02 12-Volt Max
Features:
- Compact: The PS42-02 Features an Ultra-Compact Head Length of 5.5 Inches and Weighs Only 1.6 Lbs.. the Driver Is Lightweight and Ideal for All-Day Use.
- TORQUE: The Bosch PS42-02 12 Volt Driver provides 975 inches –pounds of max torque, making it ideal for repeat driving tasks and about 85 percent of fastening tasks.
- SPEED: The driver offers fast driving no-load RPM ratings of 0-1,200 and 0-2,600 and an optimized impact system with no-load impact per minute ratings of 0-2,700 and 0-3,100.
- EFFICIENT: With a 12V EC Brushless motor, the PS42-02 provides unmatched efficiency with greater runtime and a longer tool life.
- CONVENIENT: The PS42-02 driver comes complete with three LED lights for improved illumination in dark work spaces and a belt clip for quick and easy storage.
Review:
Introducing the Bosch PS42-02. It uses the latest brushless motor technology to achieve better performance, longer run time, and reduced weight. This impact driver is light, compact, and powerful enough to complete virtually any job, definitely features needed for the best impact driver for the money.
While most impact drivers only use 1/4-inch hex bits, the adapter on this tool can handle a full range of fasteners. It’s a must-have for any pro who values efficiency.
This tool is the ultimate accessory to your Bosch cordless arsenal, and it has many functions in one. It’s not just a cordless impact driver, but it’s also a 1/4 socket-ready hex for added convenience.
For anyone who has been frustrated trying to use a 1/4 inch driver and then a 1/2 inch socket adapter, there is finally a solution. The Bosch PS42-02 12-Volt Max utilizes not only the technology of two tools in one, but also a specialized head that allows you to use both a standard socket as well as an allen wrench on a single tool.
Not only will this adapter save you money by eliminating the need to purchase two separate tools, it is also built from top-quality materials and designed to last!.
The Bosch PS42-02 12-Volt Max provides consistent power to every angle thanks to the rotary hammer and SDS pounding mechanism. Using the performance control system, you’ll be able to choose the appropriate driving speed or torque speed as simply as pressing a button. This innovative solution allows you to work smart, not hard. It has all the features of a compact tool and more than enough power to complete any job.
The Bosch PS42-02 12-Volt Max has some useful features for household work like the anvil system and a borsch-built hammer. However, it is a bit inconvenient that the manual battery on the Bosch PS42-02 is clunky. But after a period of time using it, memorize this process and you can deal with it easily.
Another slight issue with this impact driver is the speed changing button which the indicator is difficult to see/read when in direct sunlight. However, if you can get polarized glasses, you should be good to go.
Pros:
- 1/4-inch hex
- 1/2-inch square socket-ready adapter
- EC Brushless Motor
- Ergonomic Design
Cons:
- LED Indicator is weak
#10 PORTER-CABLE PCCK604L2 20V MAX
Features:
- 1/2 inch two speed drill/driver. High performance motor delivers 283 Units Watts Out and 0-350/0-1,500 RPM.
- Compact design 8.25 inch long and 3.5 lbs. Drill features an ergonomic handle design, LED light and bit storage
- 1/4 inch impact driver delivers 1450 in/lbs of torque, 0-2,800 RPM and 0-3,100 BPM. Quick load chuck for one handed bit changes.
- Compact design 6.9″ long and 3.3 lbs.Impact driver features an ergonomic handle, LED light and bit storage
- 20V MAX 1.3 Ah lithium ion batteries included. Professional grade batteries deliver more runtime and are lighter weight than traditional NiCd batteries
Review:
Looking for a simple solution to your DIY problems? Why not try the Porter-Cable 20V impact driver with its lightweight and compact build? It’s excellent for quick fastening. Perfect for tight spaces, too, the China-built machine is an excellent product.
This heavy duty cordless impact driver packs a punch along with its LED work light. You can get to those hard-to-reach areas for fast and easy installation of your lighting fixtures.
The PORTER- CABLE impact driver is a convenient tool that will help you with your projects. It’s lightweight and easy to handle. The power levels are clearly marked on the machine so you can know exactly what battery life you have left. Plus, a quick charge of an hour will give you an hour’s worth of work time.
The purchase of our PORTER-CABLE PCCK604L2 20V MAX Cordless Impact Driver will be a decision that makes your life much easier. Your current needs are sure to be covered by this versatile power tool, and you’ll never have to worry about recharging or purchasing new batteries.
While we liked that our kit is compact and solid, we couldn’t fit even an extra box of loose tools inside. It means we had to carry an extra bag for my other tools. Plus, the LED lights that brighten the front of the machine do cast some shadows.
All in all, even if it sports some basic features – for the price range alone you will get the most for your investment. Definitely one of the best impact driver for the money!
Pros:
- High torque
- Ergonomic Design
- Lightweight
- Fast Charger and Extra battery
- One of the best deals for the best impact driver for the money
Cons:
- Pretty basic features
- No extra storage compartment
- Durability not tested in the market
Dweller Power’s Buying Guide
This guide will walk you through different factors to consider while shopping for the best impact driver for the money, including the most important features to watch out for. DIY’ers, woodworkers, and carpenters alike will all benefit from a closer look at these factors.
Here are a few helpful tips that will help you decide before buying:
Torque
This is probably one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an impact driver for the money. Torque is a huge help when you’re driving or removing screws.
It’s a huge help when you’re trying to drive things into the ground. The higher the RPM torque, the more powerful blows you get.
When you compare an impact driver and a normal drill driver, they are markedly different. The biggest difference is the amount of torque that impact drivers provide.
Impact drivers often demonstrate more efficiency than standard drill drivers by taking the stress off the operator. This allows work to be completed faster and with less effort.
Choose a reasonable Torque output because too much will be too powerful too.
Motor
When you want the toughest, most productive brushless impact driver motor, choose a model with well-documented performance, quality construction, and premium features.
For the best impact driver for the money, all of them sports amazing powerful motors.
These motors are the peak of technological achievement. These extremely efficient and powerful motors communicate well with batteries to prevent overloads. They do not overheat, resulting in an extended lifespan of components.
As a result, they save money on future repairs and energy costs.
RPM
There are many factors affecting a drill’s performance, but one of the most important is the rotations per minute. This number indicates how fast the drill is turning, and the faster it turns, the better it works.
Keeping an impact driver at the right RPM will not only help to prevent overheating, but also increase effectiveness.
Voltage
If you are a DIY enthusiast, you can get most of your job done using the 12V model, but if you are a professional or are planning to do some extra heavy duty work, go with the 18V impact driver.
Ergonomics
For years, impact drivers have been used for inserting long fasteners into a variety of surfaces. Well, the gadget is now getting better. The motor and the mechanism has evolved. In recent years, top-rated models are getting more ergonomic.
The constant developments in motor technology and fabrication prompted most manufacturers to upgrade their product lines to make them more comfortable for users.
One-handed Driving
Whenever you’re working on a project, the last thing you want is to worry about an impact driver slipping from your hand. These lightweight power tools with the power of an impact mechanism enable one-handed driving.
They’re compact, have a low center of gravity, and are engineered with the elements that make them shock resistant, thus ensuring stability. Designed for precision drilling tasks in corners, it penetrates masonry, concrete, and other hardwoods. It also helps with fastening.
Control, LED lights and Belt hook
When you are choosing the best impact driver for the money, there are a few key features to be aware of. The trigger lock is an essential component as it keeps your fingers safe from the spinning chuck. A forward/reverse switch is another important feature. This will save you time and injury by making it easier to reverse direction and side-to-side impacts.
LED lights. The light that’s built in the driver automatically turns on when the battery is installed and turns off when the battery is removed. This preserves battery power and prevents accidental turning on of the tool.
Impact drivers with belt hooks are a great choice for both contractors and DIY-ers, thanks to their ambidextrous design. An impact driver belt hook can be attached to either side of the driver, allowing you to use your impact driver right-handed or left-handed.
Battery
- Charging Time: Because impact drivers are power-hungry tools, it’s important that you keep its charging time in mind A typical 2 Ah battery takes between 30 minutes to 60 minutes to completely charge.
- Battery Capacity: You should be looking for a long-lasting battery. The capacity measured in amp hours (Ah) and the higher the number of amp hours, the more capacity. The one thing to bear in mind is that a higher capacity tends to lead to more charging time, weight, size, and cost.
Quip Tip: For the duration of the Impact Driver Battery life, one should invest in a few 18V batteries and a compatible charger. You can find these in a combo pack, so always search for one. This will save you a few dollars.
Drive Size
One of the most important things to remember is that all accessories you purchase for impact drivers need to be designed for impact, else it’s a waste. And among the hundreds of available options, ¼-inch hex shank ones are certainly your best bet. You will find that they have been specifically designed for impact drivers.
No Load Speed
The no-load speed is the rotational speed with no load on the motor. The result is zero rotational speed in a system without any load at hand.
Warranty
It does not hurt to know all the details in a warranty. It may be your best weapon as you are fighting with the manufacturer to fix your brand new lawn mower or chainsaw. The best protection of your investment is a higher quality warranty.
Furthermore, you should check if you have to register your product online in order to be eligible for warranty service. Some manufacturers require this registration, so that they may honor repairs under manufacturer’s warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is a brushless model recommended?
YES! Brushless motors are all the rage/ Brushless motors last longer, generate more power, and are more durable. Especially for the best impact driver for the money, a brushless model is most sought after.
If you’re looking for the next level of a home improvement tool, an impact driver with a brushless motor is a great choice.
Are there specific features to look out for in an Impact Driver?
Not necessarily, as most brands offer more or less the same features except for special patents. Note that Impact drivers are designed for professionals. Features like Tool-less accessory change function makes it easy to change bits in seconds.
Difference between an impact driver and drill driver?
Since both are generally called drivers, you might want to have a little background knowledge about what differentiates an impact driver from a drill driver. A drill driver handles light DIY functions like drilling into walls, repairing sheds, building flat-surface furniture and more.
A drill driver is the perfect tool for building and repairing small projects around the house. It’s also ideal for drilling into walls and repairing sheds. But what about those large DIY tasks? They won’t work well with hardwood, like floors. In fact, you’d exert a lot of pressure when driving in the screw which would most likely strip off the head.
You may be thinking “what about my impact driver?” Well, an impact driver is built with more power and speed than a drill driver. It provides you with 24% more torque, making it ideal for setting screws into wood and heavy-duty tasks.
When a long screw is needed to attach a hard wood or a difficult material, impact drivers will get the job done. Impact tools can be compact, so they’re great for small tasks or confined spaces.
What is the difference between an impact driver and an impact wrench?
Impact wrenches are powerful, heavy, and larger than impact drivers. Impact wrenches have a square drive, while impact drivers have a hexagonal drive. Drivers are used for drill screwing and loosening, while wrenches are used for hole-loosening and fastening. But, by using an adapter, you can turn a ¼ inch hexagonal driver into a ½ inch square driver.
Can you drill holes with an impact driver?
Yes you can! You can use the Impact Driver with a Masonry/Wood drill bit to make big holes in bulk materials quickly and with ease. A Fine-tooth Steel/Aluminum Drill bit will work best for small holes in lighter materials.
Best Impact Driver for the Money
Final Thoughts
Is it time for you to get the best impact driver for the money?
The DEWALT DCF787C1 is the most impressive name in DIY and home improvement. Not only is it long-lasting and compact, but it can take care of any project job with ease. A real testament being the best impact driver for the money!
This ends our Review Series for the Best Impact Driver for the Money.
With that, please always remember that you need a good set. And by ‘good’, a properly organized set of power tools, including the best impact driver for the money, will see you through the best projects. Nothing is impossible with dedication, practice, and patience, and better yet – choosing the best impact driver for the money.
We want you to be sure of what you plan to get, please don’t hesitate to ask for advice.
Love our Best Impact Driver for the Money Review? Leave a comment or drop us an email at [email protected], and we will get back to you as fast as possible!
Love our Guides & Reviews?
Share it with your friends!
Charles is a veteran woodworker and wants to help people online to learn more about woodworking. He hopes to encourage more people to build their own furniture and get comfortable with using power tools.
In this blog post, Charles shares a few tips for getting started on your DIY woodworking journey, plus all the resources and websites he recommends for learning the craft. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to start from scratch!
