A cordless impact driver is a handheld power tool that is primarily used for driving screws and setting nuts. This tool is preferred by professionals and homeowners because it’s lighter and smaller than drill drivers and has a higher torque speed. The cordless impact driver is meant to be a handy tool, useful when you need to, for example, drive large fasteners like lag bolts through porches and other thick materials.
It’s important that you consider important factors and features which are decisive for the overall quality of the cordless impact driver. A right impression of the relevant traits that affect cordless impact driver’s performance will help you buy a quality product which can stand up to any challenge. Now, we will point out some relevant factors you need to consider before buying a cordless impact driver.
- Features to consider in Good Cordless Impact Drivers
- Top 10 Best Cordless Impact Drivers 2023
- 1. BLACK+DECKER BDCI20C 20V MAX Lithium Impact Driver
- 2. VonHaus 20V Cordless 1/4" Impact Driver Set
- 3. Ryobi One+ P236 18V Cordless Impact Driver
- 4. WEN 49135 20V Max Lithium-Ion Cordless 1/4" Impact Driver
- 5. Makita XDT15ZB Cordless Impact Driver
- 6. SKIL 20V Cordless Impact Driver
- 7. Dewalt DCF885BR 20V MAX Cordless Impact Driver
- 8. Makita DT04Z 12V Max CXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Impact Driver
- 9. Makita XDT14Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Impact Driver
- 10. Milwaukee 2462-20 M12 Cordless Impact Driver
- Guide to Buying the Best Cordless Impact Drivers
- The Verdict
Features to consider in Good Cordless Impact Drivers
Torque speed
This is the crucial feature you should pay attention to. The higher the torque speed is, the more efficient the cordless impact driver is. High torque speed makes it easier for you to finish screw driving, or nut setting operations faster and effortless. High-quality cordless impact drivers feature high torque speed and, therefore, provide you with optimum performance.
Along with torque speed, you should check the quality of the cordless impact driver’s motor as it’s directly responsible for the torque speed and torque strength. Quality motors offer high torque speed and strength, but also come with quality construction and design which ensure the stable and reliable performance of the impact driver.
Weight
It’s important that a cordless impact driver is lightweight as it allows for easier control of the tool. If the tool is too heavy, no matter how high its torque speed is, your performance may deteriorate because it’s hard to control. The best cordless impact drivers feature a good balance between the weight and other features that improve the driver’s overall performance and functionality.
A small weight is one of the most important impact driver’s advantages with regards to drill drivers. Despite that, some cordless impact driver tools may be easier to carry than drill drivers, but they can still be too heavy for comfortable use.
Noise
Cordless impact drivers feature high efficiency and outstanding hammer action which, on the other hand, produces a great noise that can present a problem for users who are sensitive to this. So, before buying a cordless impact driver it’s important that you check if you can stand its noise when active and see if you have to buy additional ear protection gear.
User reviews
If you want to buy your new cordless impact driver using the internet, then it’s important that you check other users’ experiences as it can give you a useful insight into the product’s key features. For example, if you have a problem with noisy tools, but you can’t test the product online, you can see if other people described the tool as noisy in the comments, or send a question to the manufacturer.
Top 10 Best Cordless Impact Drivers 2023
1. BLACK+DECKER BDCI20C 20V MAX Lithium Impact Driver
Editor’s Rating:
High torque speed
BLACK+DECKER impact driver meets the main criteria of a quality cordless impact driver product and that is a high torque speed of 1375 in-lbs max torque. This torque speed can stand up to any challenging screw driving or nut setting operation you need to finish. Also, despite the fact that this lithium impact driver features high torque speed, the tool is not too loud, so you can use it comfortably even if you are sensitive to noise.
Long Lasting Battery
This cordless impact driver has a long lifespan battery that features maximum initial battery voltage of 20 Volts and a nominal voltage of 18 volts. BLACK-+DECKER driver’s battery will provide you with long and reliable performance that sets you free from the need to recharge the battery often. This feature proves as beneficial when you have to use the driver for long periods of time.
Easy to use
BLACK+DECKER cordless impact driver has a compact construction which allows for comfortable use. The driver has an ergonomic handle which ensures a firm grip that’s able to withstand the tool’s recoil and provide you with precise use of the tool.
Also, the tool is lightweight which means that you will have better control of the cordless impact driver and overall better performance while using it. A small weight is a key feature on this BLACK+DECKER impact driver tool and it should figure as decisive while you consider whether you will choose this or other cordless impact driver model.
Pros
- This cordless impact driver has a great torque speed.
- The tool is not too loud.
- The long lasting battery gives you a chance to use this cordless impact driver with no need to recharge it often.
- It’s easy to use this tool as it features a comfortable handle and a small weight.
Cons
- Some users report minor problems while removing more delicate screws using this driver.
2. VonHaus 20V Cordless 1/4" Impact Driver Set
Editor’s Rating:
Powerful
VonHaus cordless impact driver comes with a powerful torque of 1327 in/lbs which can stand up to any challenging task with a 3000 RPM of maximum speed. Also, this cordless impact driver’s strength is provided by a high spec motor power which allows for screwing through the densest and thickest materials.
LED light
VonHaus impact driver comes with a built-in LED flashlight, designed to illuminate your workspace and provide you with a better overview of all the important segments of your work. The built-in LED flashlight also allows for versatile operation with this cordless impact driver model.
Lightweight
This product features an optimum balance between its structure and materials which enables you to comfortably use the tool for longer periods of time and enjoy its impeccable performance. The tool’s gear head is made of aluminum which ensures the tool’s lightweight.
Also, the aluminum construction increases the tool’s durability and strength, providing you with reliable performance and long lifespan of the tool. The overall performance of VonHaus cordless impact driver is enhanced with its specific construction and design.
Pros
- VonHaus cordless impact driver is a powerful tool with a great torque speed.
- The driver can screw through almost any thick and dense material.
- Built-in LED flashlight can improve your performance.
- This cordless impact drive is designed for comfortable and reliable use.
Cons
- If you want to see the full potential of this driver, you need to make an additional investment in a good bit kit.
3. Ryobi One+ P236 18V Cordless Impact Driver
Editor’s Rating:
Easy to use
Ryobi impact driver features a notched mold on the pistol grip that is specially designed to provide you with a firm hold on this tool and improve your accuracy even in slippery conditions. The handle features an ergonomic design which is meant to provide you with a comfortable use of the tool.
Another useful feature is a tool-free bit changing option that allows you to simply plug a bit into the chuck to lock it in. If you want to eject the bit, just pull the collar back and the bit will fall right into your palm.
Tri-beam LED lighting
This cordless impact driver comes with an advanced LED lighting system which features up to 3 separate LED light sources that illuminate your workspace and help you see the important details. The light system is activated when you trigger the tool, which proves as a convenient solution if you work in low light areas.
Magnetic Tray
Ryobi cordless impact driver comes with a magnetic tray that is meant to keep fasteners and bits on the unit while you work. This option makes Ryobi cordless impact driver even more convenient for use as it saves you from searching for the bits all around the place, or losing them.
Pros
- Ryobi cordless impact driver is easy to use and has plenty of convenient options that save your time and effort.
- Tri-beam LED lighting provides you with a superior overview of the workspace.
- Tool-free bit changing option makes it much easier for novices to use the tool.
- Magnetic tray option will save you from losing the bits and fasteners.
Cons
- It would be better if you could turn the lights on without engaging the driver.
4. WEN 49135 20V Max Lithium-Ion Cordless 1/4" Impact Driver
Editor’s Rating:
Sensitive trigger
WEN cordless impact driver is designed to provide you with comfortable use that features smart functions which enhance the tool’s performance. This cordless impact driver comes with a sensitive trigger which automatically adjusts the torque-speed in accordance with the surface you’re using it on. This function can save you from unexpected occurrences which happen if too much torque speed is used on a bolt, or surface.
Powerful torque
This cordless impact driver features a high-end motor which allows for up to 950 inch-pounds worth of torque and up to 3,400 taps per minute. This torque strength is enough for any challenging task and combined with a sensitive trigger, this tool gives you optimum performance that applies enough strength, in accordance with the job you need to finish.
Easy to use
WEN cordless impact driver is designed to give you the optimum performance even if you are new to this kind of power tools. The cordless impact driver is lightweight which means that you can have good control of the tool and be accurate while using it. Also, this impact driver features ambidextrous belt clip, designed for convenient use, no matter if you are right or left-handed.
Also, WEN impact driver comes with the LED lighting system which turns on when the trigger is pressed. The LED lighting system is best used in situations when you need to illuminate workspace and have a good overview of the work subject.
Pros
- The sensitive trigger makes it easier for you to use the tool.
- WEN cordless impact driver has a powerful torque which can stand up to any challenging task.
- The impact driver is lightweight and easy to control.
- LED light system enhances the tool’s efficacy.
Cons
- Some users report that this impact driver is not too fast even on highest speed, but the strong torque compensates for this.
5. Makita XDT15ZB Cordless Impact Driver
Editor’s Rating:
Easy to use
Makita cordless impact driver is designed for convenient use that enables you to master the use of this tool even if you’re new to impact drivers. The cordless driver features a compact and ergonomic design which enhances user experience and allows for accurate use of the tool.
The tool weighs only 2.6 lbs, which makes this cordless impact driver useful when you need to use it for long periods of time as it reduces the operator’s fatigue. This Makita cordless impact driver model has the size and weight of lower voltage tools, but features the high-quality performance of bigger models.
“Assist mode”
Makita cordless impact driver also features “Assist mode” (a.k.a. a-mode) that helps you eliminate “screw cam-out” and “cross threading” by lowering torque speed until tightening begins. This option is especially useful when you need to drive longer fasteners as it provides you with reliable performance that maximizes your overall efficacy.
Quality motor and charging system
Makita cordless impact driver features an efficient motor with two-speed settings which allows for easy speed adjustment. Also, the charging speed of this Makita cordless impact driver model is satisfying and saves your time as the driver spends more time working than charging. This tool powered by high-quality 18V Lithium-Ion slide-style batteries.
Pros
- Tool’s design features an ergonomic handle and lightweight which enhance your performance.
- Makita impact driver features the size and weight of smaller models, but provides you with performance quality of bigger models.
- “Assist mode” is helpful when you need to drive the longer fasteners.
- Makita impact driver comes with a high-quality motor and is powered by 18V Lithium-Ion slide-style batteries.
Cons
- Some users reported minor problems with activating “Assist mode”, but it only takes a bit of practice and you’ll learn the ropes in no time.
6. SKIL 20V Cordless Impact Driver
Editor’s Rating:
Quality Batteries
SKIL cordless impact driver features PWRCore 20 Lithium Battery that has an innovative temperature management system. This system keeps the battery cool and ensures stable powering when the impact driver is active. Also, this battery system adds to the overall durability and longevity of the tool as it protects the battery and driver’s motor.
Powerful Torque
With this cordless impact driver, you will get a satisfying torque power which is meant to withstand the most challenging tasks. SKIL 20V impact driver features 1,100 inch pounds of torque which is enough for heavy-duty work like driving large fasteners through dense surfaces.
Easy to use
SKIL cordless impact driver comes with an intuitive design that is meant to provide the users with directions on how to use tool’s options. Also, the very construction of the impact driver features an ergonomic design that allows for comfortable and accurate use of the tool.
This impact driver comes with forward/reverse LED indicator which is designed to provide you with a quick notice on which direction the tool is set to drive. Also, there’s a LED light system which is designed to illuminate work area when the trigger is pressed and provide you with a better overview of the work subject.
Pros
- SKIL cordless impact driver comes with quality and an innovative battery system which ensures the tool’s durability and reliable performance.
- The cordless impact driver features powerful torque which makes this tool useful for heavy-duty tasks.
- Impact driver’s construction provides you with comfortable use and improves your accuracy while using the tool.
- Also, the LED light system helps you see all the important details in your workspace.
Cons
- Some users report that SKIL cordless impact driver doesn’t give as quality performance on surfaces like concrete or steel as it gives on wooden surfaces.
7. Dewalt DCF885BR 20V MAX Cordless Impact Driver
Editor’s Rating:
Compact design
DeWalt cordless impact driver is designed to be a handy tool that allows you to successfully operate in any given space. The 5.55 inches front to back length of this impact driver easily fits into tight areas which means that you can successfully finish any delicate work using it.
Also, this cordless impact driver comes with a belt hook which enhances the portability of the tool and gives you a chance to easily move around with your impact driver. The belt hook enables you to instantly take and use the impact driver when it’s needed.
Easy to use
DeWalt cordless impact driver features an intuitive design which enables you to easily understand how the tool functions. All of the impact driver’s functions are within reach and you can activate them with ease. Also, there are 3 LED lights that help you illuminate your workspace and provide high visibility without shadows. LED light system makes it easier for you to monitor the state of your workspace and work subject.
Durable
DeWalt’s product features high-quality production which ensures its durability and provides you with reliable use for long periods of time. Quality construction and device parts allow for heavy-duty engagement of the tool and give you the stable performance that enhances your overall productivity.
Pros
- DeWalt cordless impact driver features a compact design, which enables you to work in tight spaces.
- This driver comes with a belt hook which ensures its high-end portability.
- LED light system gives you a better overview of workspace.
- The cordless impact driver features durable construction.
Cons
- Some users reported minor problems with the attachment of a belt hook.
8. Makita DT04Z 12V Max CXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Impact Driver
Editor’s Rating:
Powerful torque
Makita cordless impact driver features a high-quality brushless motor which delivers powerful torque that goes up to the max of 1,200 in.Lbs. Also, the BL Brushless motor eliminates carbon brushes, enabling the BL motor to run cooler and more efficiently. What’s impressive is the fact that this Makita model provides you with such torque strength which comes with ultra-compact tool design that ensures comfortable use of the driver.
Makita 12V impact driver model comes with CXT lithium-ion slide-style batteries which ensure stable powering of the driver and feature an ergonomic design which adds up to the convenient use of this tool.
Easy to use
This cordless impact driver is user-friendly and features easy control options which let you understand the way this tool functions in no time. Driver’s batteries include an onboard LED charge level indicator which informs you about the battery situation and lets you know if you need to recharge it or not.
Also, this Makita impact driver features Assist Mode setting which helps you eliminate “cam-out” and “cross-threading” by lowering the torque-speed until the tightening process begins.
Durable
This cordless driver features high-level production which ensures the tool’s longevity and stable performance. High-quality parts provide you with reliable performance and reduce the risk of unexpected malfunctions during work.
Pros
- Makita cordless impact driver feature high-quality motor that ensures stable performance and powerful torque.
- This power tool features a compact design which enhances the tool’s portability and provides you with the functionality of bigger models.
- LED charge level indicator proves as useful as it tells you do you need to recharge the battery or continue with work.
- Assist Mode helps you drive long fasteners.
Cons
- Some users report that this tool is not so successful when it comes to heavy-duty tasks.
9. Makita XDT14Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Impact Driver
Editor’s Rating:
Superior control
Makita cordless impact driver comes with Quick-Shift mode selector which serves as an automatic electronic controller that downshifts and reduces both rotation and impact speed for a successful screw driving performance. Quick-Shift mode is engineered to minimize screw thread stripping, allowing for reliable use of the tool with no risks of tool, screw, or surface damage.
Also, the model comes with Tightening mode which helps you successfully tighten the Self-Drilling screws and prevent damage to the screw or workpiece. Such advanced control options will improve your performance and provide you with an unmatched functional versatility which stands up to any challenging task.
High-Quality motor
Makita impact driver comes with BL Brushless motor which features outstanding quality and provides you with 3,600 maximum RPM and immense torque strength of 1,550 in.lbs. Moreover, BL Brushless motor features electronic control settings which optimize the overall battery energy use for up to satisfying 50 percent longer run time per charge.
Convenient use
Makita cordless impact driver features an ergonomic handle design which provides you with the comfortable use of the tool and makes it easier to use the tool for longer periods of time. Also, the cordless impact driver comes with dual LED lights with an independent on/off switch that illuminate the work area and give you a good overview of the workspace.
Pros
- Makita cordless impact driver comes with superior control options which maximize the tool’s efficacy and allows for successful delicate operations.
- BL Brushless motor provides you with high torque speed and powerful torque that withstands heavy-duty tasks.
- Ergonomic handle allows for enhanced accuracy and comfortable use of the tool.
- Dual LED lights feature independent on/off switches that give you a full control of the lighting system.
Cons
- Some users report minor problems with mastering the advanced control options.
10. Milwaukee 2462-20 M12 Cordless Impact Driver
Editor’s Rating:
Easy to use
Milwaukee cordless impact driver is designed to provide you with comfortable use as it features a compact handle that allows for a firm grip and precise control of the tool. Also, the tool comes with a user interface that includes onboard fuel gauge with LED lights on the side of the impact driver that lets you know how much battery you have left.
Milwaukee cordless impact driver also features an ambidextrous belt clip that helps you control the tool, no matter if you are right or left-handed as you can keep the included belt clip attached on the side of the driver that’s more comfortable for you.
LED lighting
The overall efficacy of this cordless impact driver is enhanced with LED lighting that gives you a better overview of your work subject . The LED light panel is located above and in front of the trigger and is activated by it. This LED light panel’s position is specifically designed to prevent any shadows from being cast by the finger you use to trigger the tool.
Advanced battery technology
Milwaukee cordless impact driver features a RedLithium technology that is an internal computer technology which communicates with RedLithium batteries and powers them. This technology enables cross-communication between the two charging systems and keeps the impact driver’s motor from overheating or drawing more power than it can handle. This feature enhances the durability and longevity of the tool.
Pros
- This cordless impact driver has an ergonomic handle design that makes it easy to use.
- Ambidextrous belt clip makes this impact driver useful both for left and right-handed people.
- LED lighting technology gives you a better overview of your work subject.
- RedLithium technology enhances the driver’s durability and long lifespan.
Cons
- The product comes without the battery and charger included.
Guide to Buying the Best Cordless Impact Drivers
After a thorough review of the best quality products online, we can emphasize on a set of decisive factors which must be considered before purchasing any of the cordless impact driver products. All of the products tend to provide you with the standard advantages of impact drivers, there’s a variety of engineering factors that affect the overall functionality of the product.
What you need to consider while buying cordless impact drivers
Battery and motor quality
The quality of these two components is decisive when it comes to the overall performance quality that impact driver provides you with. Some cordless impact driver models may provide you with satisfying torque speed and strength, but the overall quality is determined by engineering solutions which ensure the tool’s reliable performance and durability.
Some of the reviewed models feature battery and motor protection features which ensure that these components can withstand frequent heavy-duty tasks and prove as durable and reliable. So, if you want to avoid unexpected malfunctions, carefully check the product description and see if it has any of the motor and battery protection systems featured.
Ease of use
Convenient use is one of the cordless impact driver’s key traits which means that you should keep an eye on features that make it easier for you to use the driver. The things that ultimately affect the convenient use of the impact driver are the driver’s size and weight. It’s recommended that you look for impact driver models that offer high torque speed and strength, but have a compact design that features small weight and size.
Also, the drivers that feature compact design allow for versatile use and enable you to do delicate operations with the tool. All in all, if you can use the driver with ease, your overall performance will be notably enhanced.
Control options
Aside from the standard controls that enable you to control driver’s basic functions like driving the screw inside or out of the object, it’s important that you check if the impact driver has some advanced control options which can prove to be beneficial both for professional users and people who are new to this kind of power tools.
Some of the advanced control options may enhance the secure use of the tool which reduces the risk of tool and surface damage. Such options can be useful for people who are yet to learn the basics of using the impact driver tool. Therefore, check what each impact driver has to offer when it comes to controlling features as some control options can significantly increase the set of things you can do with the tool.
Additional features
It’s recommended that you check if the cordless driver products feature some additional options which can add up to the overall efficacy of the tool. For example, most of the cordless impact drivers feature LED lighting systems which serve to illuminate the workspace and improve your performance as they allow you to focus on important details in any room light conditions.
What types of cordless impact drivers are available?
Cordless impact driver models can be generally divided according to maximum voltage their battery type features. Maximum voltage determines if the cordless impact driver is designed for heavy-duty tasks, or it’s more useful for minor screw driving challenges.
12V cordless impact drivers
This type of cordless impact drivers is best used for standard screw driving tasks which are not too challenging. Although this type of cordless impact drivers can’t generally stand up to heavy-duty tasks, there are certain models out there which can provide you with great torque speed and strength that can match the performance of more powerful products.
18V cordless drivers
This cordless impact driver models are suitable for challenging tasks and provide impact driver’s motor with enough strength to deliver high-speed torque, strong enough to finish any screw driving task.
20V cordless impact drivers
If you work with the densest and thickest materials you should check this type of cordless impact drivers as they feature enough torque speed and strength to penetrate any surface and finish virtually any task you give to them. These cordless impact driver models are usually heavier than the other impact driver types, but they provide you with outstanding performance.
The Verdict
If you consider all the mentioned factors and get to know the nature of the work you need to get done with the cordless impact driver, you will make a good investment and a superior addition to your toolbox. A cordless impact driver is a powerful tool that features unique functionality traits which make it irreplaceable for all kinds of screw driving tasks.
Quality cordless impact driver products offer you an impeccable performance when it comes to driving all types of fasteners as they have greater torque strength and higher torque speed than drill drivers. The goal of the cordless impact driver is to help you deal with any sort of screw driving task in no time and with no effort. It’s important that you know which sort of work you need to finish using the cordless impact driver and also which sort of materials and surfaces you are working with.