Impact Drivers
Impact drivers are versatile and convenient tools that can drive screws at astonishing speeds. There are a lot of tasks that these tools are perfect for. They can operate like a screwdriver and a drill but with much higher torque. After several hours of researching, testing and reviewing some of the best models available on the market we discovered that the speed, voltage, maximum torque and battery were most important. In the comparison chart below, you will find a top 5 best sellers based on user’s opinions.
Top 5 Impact Drivers Comparison
Impact Driver Reviews
Ingersoll Rand W7150-K2
1.Ingersoll Rand W7150-K2
If you are looking to purchase a workhorse power tool, the Ingersoll Rand W7150-K2 is exactly what you need. It is the best high-torque driver that provides the greatest wrenching performance. Whether it is manual or powered, the most important factor to consider on a driver is the ability to generate torque. In what regards this model, it’s important to know that it produces 1100 ft.-lbs. of nut driving torque and 780 ft-lbs. of reverse torque, which is more than enough to handle most automotive applications. As compared to other similar products, this model comes with a plethora of impressive features. For example, it comes with an all-metal drive train and hammer mechanism which gives it the ability to smoothly and efficiently transmit its power. More than that, it ensures the machine does not underperform due to worn out components. Also, it is equipped with a soft touch over-molded grip that protects you when using it. Additionally, it comes with a 20V lithium-ion battery that delivers high-charge capacity and low internal impedance. What we really like about this product is that it is a great value for money. It is extremely powerful and comes at a very reasonable price.
Milwaukee 2763-22 M18
2.Milwaukee 2763-22 M18
The Milwaukee 2763-22 M18 is one of the most powerful cordless wrenches on the market. It delivers 700 ft-lbs of maximum torque and 1100 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque. It comes with a Powerstate Brushless motor that runs cooler with no wearable components and a REDLITHIUM XC 4.0 battery which delivers 2X more run-time. The REDLINK PLUS Intelligence is an interesting feature that allows you to choose between 2 fastening modes with drive control feature. Also, the driver comes with 2 lithium-ion batteries and delivers a maximum speed of 1700 rpm. This Milwaukee model features an anvil/mechanism that helps you improve your productivity. Generally speaking, if you need to use large impact drivers on your job, this impact wrench is a must-have. More than that, it comes with a 5-year warranty and a reasonable price. It is a good impact wrench that will surely meet your requirements.
DEWALT DCF899P1
3. DEWALT DCF899P1
With so many models on the market, it’s quite difficult to choose the right one. However, the DEWALT DCF899P1 is really a wrench that needs your attention. It packs 1200 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque and 700 ft-lbs. of fastening torque. The DeWALT comes with 3-speed selector switch for application specific control, a LED work light and a battery fuel gauge. The LED light has a 20-second delay and helps you work in dimly lit spaces. In spite of its lightweight feature, this is a powerful tool which is able to handle a 6-8 ft drop. Plus, note that its anvil is durable and resistant to breaking. As compared to other similar tools, this one comes with a battery fuel gauge indicator which let you know when it’s time to recharge the batteries. There is also a ½ inches detent pin feature which is available in hog ring. Sometimes you may be working in dirtier areas where dirt, mud and debris will make the detent tough to press in. That’s why it’s advisable to go with the hog ring and use the pin detent in works that are a bit cleaner. All in all, the DEWALT DCF899P1 is definitely an option worth taking into consideration.
Bosch IDH182-02L
4. Bosch IDH182-02L
If you are looking for innovative chuck, cutting-edge technology and great performance, the Bosch IDH182 is exactly what you need. This impact wrench is has a brushless motor that produces 1650 in-lbs. of maximum torque and 2800 rpm.. The fact that it is equipped with a 18V battery system is a major perk and makes this machine a good centerpiece of any professional tool collection. Additionally, it’s important to know that it comes with a wide range of impressive features. As such, it features a hammer and anvil system which increase performance and deliver maximum impact performance. In order to minimize damage, you can easily adjust tool speed and torque with a push of a button. In comparison to other similar tools, this little machine features a patented three LED design. This means that you will be able to work in dimly lit spaces and areas without shadows. Overall, this is a powerful tool that will certainly meet your requirements.
Makita XDT111
5. Makita XDT111
The Makita XDT111 is surely an option worth taking into consideration. It features a 4-pole motor with a 4-brush design that delivers 2900 rpm. Additionally, it produces 1460 in-lbs of maximum torque. Besides its power and speed, the XDT111 comes with a lot of features. It is equipped with dual LED lights that illuminate the work area. Moreover, it has an incredible EPT Extreme Protection Technology that we honestly wish all power tools had. This protection will keep the water and dust away from the internals of the driver. Also, if you are looking to purchase this machine, keep in mind that it comes with a 3.0 Ah lithium-ion battery which allows you to work longer between charges. Last but not least, it’s important to know that it comes with several accessories, including a hard tool case, 18V LXT Li-ion battery and a rapid charger. More than that, it comes with a 3-year limited warranty that will give you peace of mind. All in all, this good product is surely worth the money.
What’s Behind our Ratings
With so many models in the current market, it is understandable why it is so hard to find the right product. However, when you go shopping for a driver tool, make sure you know how are you going to use it. As mentioned above you will find many types of drivers on the market from small and lightweight models to large and very powerful tools. The main features that really help you decide whether a quick-driving tool is good or not will be torque and speed. However, there are also some other factors you need to consider.
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Torque
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Speed
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Voltage
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Driver handle
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Reverse switch
The torque represents the rotational power of a driver. It is measured in inch-pounds and it is good to know that all impact machines are high torque. The fact that they are all high-torque is a major perk and gives them a lot of advantage over regular drills. While a smaller tool can have 700 in-lbs., a larger model can be as high as 1700 in-lbs.. Therefore, if you want to finish your large project and you need a quick-driving tool, make sure you choose a large, heavier-duty model.
The speed is another important factor involved in finding the right impact tool. It is measured in amps. Although all machines are high speed, some models are by far much faster than others. Therefore, if you need a tool for driving huge screws, a very high-speed driver is definitely what you will need.
As mentioned before, some drivers are cordless and some have cords. Despite the fact that a corded driver doesn’t need to be recharged, which means that you don’t have to deal with recharging batteries, most people prefer to use the cordless models. A cordless model is more versatile and allows you to move from a place to another. These powerful devices come in many different voltages. The voltage is an important indicator of power, and it must be considered when choosing the right model. Also, keep in mind that the higher the voltage the more powerful and heavier the driver will be.
If you are using this tool for a long period of time, make sure it is comfortable enough to hold it in your palm or on your fingers for an extended period of time. Some models feature a handle that is covered with a non-slip rubberized material. The fact that it has this covering is really important because it is much easier on the skin of the hand.
The reverse switch is very helpful and allows you to reverse the driver in another direction. Also, it helps you avoid jamming the drill and removing screws as well. Take note though that all drivers are equipped with reverse switches. If it doesn’t come with a reverse switch, it is not an impact driver.
What to Know About a Driver
You will be surprised to discover that small tools like electric drivers can deliver so much power. They produce greater amounts of torque, which makes them perfect for complicated projects and difficult tasks. They perform just like a regular drill but in addition, they are equipped with hammer and anvil impact action. In comparison to the cordless drills, these tools are smaller, have a compact design and weightless as well. They produce less reaction force, which means that they can easily be used for people with less muscle mass. However, with so many models on the market, it is quite difficult to choose the best one. These power tools vary in size, power, price and battery options. Therefore, before making an investment, it is important to know several things.
Types of drivers
Outlined below are the three types of drivers. Considering the fact your option depends on the situation that they are best suited for, this article will help you determine the model that will work best for your needs.
- Manual tools
- Electric drivers
- Pneumatic models
The manual drivers are the models that require the most physical power from you. It has a screwdriver bit that goes into the driver’s end. In the other end, must be a rubber mallet to strike the top of the toll with it. This manual-style is not used anymore especially due to all these technological advances. Nowadays, more and more people prefer to use the electric and pneumatic impact wrenches.
There are two types of electric drivers, such as corded and cordless models. Both models use an electric mower that is generated by an internal motor which is connected to a geared shaft. This type of internal wrench doesn’t require physical power because the electric motor does everything. Thanks to all those improvements, the cordless drivers provide just as much power ad the corded tools. Their power level is usually in the 12, 18 and 20V range. They are excellent choices for construction jobs and home repair jobs.
These types of drivers work with compressed air and make a whirring sound that can be heard at mechanics hops. The pneumatic wrenches are used to install heavy-duty bolts and remove them as well. They are usually used for large projects like steel construction. Keep in mind that these drivers cannot work without air compressors.
Factors to Consider Before Making a Purchase
As it was mention above, this is the most important power tools you can buy. It is the one you will be using for both big projects like remodeling your room or building a small patio and for small projects like assembling furniture. Most devices run on lithium-ion batteries and deliver more power and longer run times. However, there are so many models on the market, that it is a bit difficult to make a purchase. Therefore, in order to make the right choice, below are some factors that will certainly influence your decision.
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Battery
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Light
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Size and weight
If you are a professional who is using this tool all day long, then you probably know that its battery life is strongly related to the type of battery is using. Also, it will be determined by the different jobs you are using the tool for. Since the lithium-ion batteries are long lasting, more and more devices are using them already. However, keep in mind that their efficiency and total power vary between models. Additionally, you may also find devices that use older NiCad technology. While the lithium-ion batteries are usually used by professionals and contractors, the regular battery is great for occasional house projects.
Illuminating the working area is extremely important, especially if you use the device during the night. It’s quite important to know that your things are lined up right and progressing correctly. While some devices are equipped with built-in LED lights, others don’t. Keep in mind that the LED lights are necessary. They increase visibility exceedingly, even in dimly lit areas.
One of the most important factors to consider before purchasing a driver is the size and weight of the tool. As compared to drills or hammer drills, this quick-driving tool features a small size and low weight. Both size and weight can greatly impact the comfort of using a tool. Keep in mind that they are especially important for extended use.
Benefits of Using an Impact Wrench
As you probably know choosing the right driver depends on several factors, including the size of the project and the type of material you are using. However, there are also some other factors involved, but these two are probably the most important ones. Below, there are also some of the main benefits of using a driver.
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Cordless means versatility
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They feature a compact design
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They provide excellent flexibility
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It is 2-in-1 powerful tool
As compared to corded tools that come with tangled wires and cords, the cordless models are extremely versatile and convenient to use. The fact that they run on rechargeable batteries, allows you to move from a place to another. Furthermore, some models can run on a battery pack which can easily be changed outside the machine. This means, that you can add an extra battery or even two and you will never wait for it to charge.
While the standard drills can be robust and heavy, the impact models don’t have this issue at all. Most of them are lightweight and compact. They are portable and very easy to carry around to where you need to use them. Due to their lightweight feature, the impact tools are perfect for use in difficult to reach places.
The main important aspect of an impact wrench is that you don’t have to apply manual force when you use it. They can be easily used with one hand because all the pressure is applied from the driver itself. This means, that you just have to keep it in place so it can do its job. Although it is a powerful device that generates a lot of torque, it won’t put extra strain on your wrists.
What we really like about this product is that it does the work of a screwdriver and a drill. A driver is more like a drill with much higher torque. Its speed is almost twice than the speed of a cordless drill. Actually, the speed and its torque are the main reasons why most people choose them for some of the tougher jobs they may have to do.
