Best Cordless Impact Drivers in 2024

Reviews & Top Picks

Cordless Impact Drivers: A Must-Have Tool for Your Workshop

When it comes to power tools, few are as versatile and essential as the cordless impact driver. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a weekend DIY enthusiast, this compact yet powerful tool can make your projects faster, easier, and more efficient. Let’s dive into what makes a cordless impact driver stand out, the types of jobs it excels at, and how it works.

What Is a Cordless Impact Driver?

A cordless impact driver is a handheld power tool designed for driving screws and bolts with high torque. Unlike traditional drills, impact drivers are built to handle tough fastening tasks, making them perfect for jobs that require driving screws into dense or thick materials.

Powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, cordless impact drivers offer the freedom to work anywhere without worrying about power outlets. Their ergonomic design and lightweight build make them a popular choice for long hours of work.

How Does a Cordless Impact Driver Work?

At its core, an impact driver uses a unique mechanism to deliver rotational force (torque) combined with concussive blows. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the process:

  1. Rotational Motion: The motor spins the driver bit, similar to a drill.
  2. Impact Action: When the driver encounters resistance, an internal hammer-and-anvil system kicks in. This system delivers rapid, high-intensity impacts to the rotation, enabling the tool to drive screws or bolts through tough materials without stalling.

This dual-action mechanism minimizes the strain on the user’s wrist while maximizing power and efficiency.

Jobs a Cordless Impact Driver Excels At

1. Driving Long Screws and Bolts
Impact drivers are perfect for driving long screws or lag bolts into wood, concrete, or metal. Their high torque ensures the screws go in smoothly without stripping or breaking.

2. Deck Building and Framing
For larger construction projects like decks, fences, or framing, impact drivers are indispensable. They handle heavy-duty fasteners quickly and efficiently.

3. Automotive Work
Impact drivers can loosen or tighten nuts and bolts in automotive repair, especially when paired with the right socket adapters.

4. Furniture Assembly and Woodworking
In woodworking, impact drivers are great for securing joints, attaching hardware, and assembling furniture. Their precision helps avoid damaging the wood.

5. Drywall and Cabinetry Installation
Impact drivers provide the speed and control needed for installing drywall screws or cabinetry without overdriving fasteners.

Tips for Using a Cordless Impact Driver

  • Choose the Right Bits: Use impact-rated bits to withstand the high torque and prevent breakage.
  • Match Speed to Material: Many impact drivers have variable speed settings, so adjust accordingly to avoid damaging your work surface.
  • Battery Maintenance: Keep your lithium-ion batteries charged and store them properly to extend their lifespan.
  • Safety First: Always wear eye protection and use the tool according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Let’s Get to the Reviews!

Let’s take a look at some of the best Drill Driver choices for every budget in 2024.

best pick overall

DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit

The DCD771C2 20V Max Lithium Ion Compact Drill/Driver Kit is lightweight and compact for working in tight spaces for long periods of time. High-speed transmission delivers 2-Speed variations allowing users to choose the level of performance needed for various applications.

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Pros

  • Typically high DeWalt build quality.
  • Dual speed transmission.
  • Light weight but strong.
  • Built-in LED light illuminates your work area.
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Cons

  • Need to make sure you’ve firmly snapped the battery into the charger, else it may not charge.
  • Drill chuck collar is hard plastic, not rubberized.

best BUDGET PICK

BLACK+DECKER POWERCONNECT 20V MAX Cordless Drill / Driver with 30-Piece Accessories

A solid-performing affordably-priced drill driver perfect for home use. Part of the 20V Max Lithium-Ion System. Assortment of 30 accessories.

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Pros

Cons

  • Gets a little warm with over-use, but this doesn’t seem to affect performance.
  • Critically important to fully charge it before first use.
Makita XFD131 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Driver-Drill Kit

An ideal drilling and driving solution for the user who wants a drill with superior power-to-weight ratio. Combines 440 in.lbs. of Max Torque with an efficient brushless motor. Weighs only 3.8 lbs. with battery for reduced operator fatigue. Includes 3.0 Ah battery and charger.

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Pros

Cons

  • Need to make sure you’ve firmly snapped the battery into the charger, else it may not charge.
  • Drill chuck collar is hard plastic, not rubberized.
DEWALT 20V MAX Right Angle Cordless Drill/Driver Kit (DCD740C1)

The DCD740C1 20V MAX* Lithium Ion 3/8″ Right Angle Drill/Driver is ideal for a variety of applications. The multi-trip trigger and compact design make it comfortable and easy to reach tight spaces.

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Pros

  • Includes battery and charger.
  • Dual speed ranges (0-650/0-2000) rpm for increased user flexibility.
  • Right-angle head allows you to drill into tight spaces.
  • Good ergonomic design.
  • 3/8-inch ratcheting chuck with Deep Hex Pocket allows 2-inch (50 mm) hex bit to be fully inserted for getting into tight spaces.
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Cons

  • LED light sticks out a little too far for some so it throws some light out to the sides.
AVID POWER 20V MAX Lithium Ion Cordless Power Drill Set with 3/8 inch Keyless Chuck

A good, all-around general-purpose drill for the home user. The AVID POWER has proven to be reliable and versatile.

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Pros

  • Includes battery and charger
  • Includes a flexible shaft for driving into hard-to-reach places.
  • Includes 10 drill bits and 10 driver bits
  • Good ergonomic design.
  • US-based customer support.
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Cons

  • Only has one speed range, although the trigger allows for variable speed.
  • Not as powerful as the more expensive models listed above, although it has plenty of power for average home use.
  • Drill bits have been reported as a bit more “wobbly” than higher-priced units.