Impact drivers are tools that deliver rotational force and forward thrust driving screws, bolts, and nuts and have, over time, made life easier for people doing home maintenance. Whether you are working professionally or using the tool for a DIY project, we have the selection of best impact drivers on this list, based on the test of their performance:
1. Milwaukee Impact Driver
This battery powered impact driver has maximum rotational speed of 3600 RPM and delivers up to 30% faster driving speed. The 4 mode drive control provides greater control over output speed and power. It’s priced at $192.93 on Amazon. During testing, it showed to be the best on the list.
- Torque and power
The Milwaukee showed impressive results in both forward and reverse rotation modes, producing 1600 PSI of tightening torque in forward rotation mode while it produced up to 1750 PSI in the reverse rotation mode. It completed 7 rotations in resistance testing, the most out of all on the list proving to be the best in the heavy – duty tasks. - Durability
Showing resilience, the Milwaukee finished best on this test too even when withstanding a 10 foot drop test. There was no visible damage and it continued to work seamlessly. - Speed
When going through trigger lag test, it was consistent and fast coming second to Makita.
Recommendation
Evident winner, this impact driver has the most speed and power, finishing at the top of the list which makes it a great choice for whatever task you may need.
2. Makita DTW1002Z 18V Li-Ion LXT Brushless Impact Driver
Weighing 3.13 kg, this impact driver is also battery powered and has the same voltage power as Milwaukee, 18 volts.
It can deliver up to 2,200 IMP and 1,800 RPM and its brushless motor makes it maintenance free. It comes at a price of $322.96 on Amazon.
- Torque and power
Makita and Dewalt had the same result in tightening torque, both coming at 1450 PSI but Dewalt performed better in reverse rotation mode (1675 PSI compared to Makita’s 1600 PSI). It did better in resistance test, finishing ahead of Dewalt. - Durability
Just like Milwaukee, it did great in the 10 foot drop test, having no damage and continuing to operate. - Speed
Makita performed best during trigger lag tests, outperforming even Milwaukee in certain tasks, and finishing better than Dewalt. It was quick and sharp in removing the lug nuts.
Recommendation
This impact driver would make an amazing choice whether you need to use it professionally or for personal use. It is pricier than the Milwaukee but it outperforms it in some tests and shows vigorous speed and power.
3. DEWALT DCF887N XR 18V 3 Speed BL Impact Driver
Dewalt impact driver has maximum rotational speed of 3250 RPM and proven reliable Dealt technology. Just like Makita, it has burshless motor but it’s slightly less powerful though it proved to be a worthy oponent when tested.
- Torque and power
Dewalt had the same forward rotation torque as the Makita (1450 PSI) and it outperformed it in the reverse rotation mode (1675 PSI) but it didn’t compare to the Milwaukee. - Durability
It did well in the drop test but it had some problems during the extended use showing signs of overheating. - Speed
This impact driver performed decently in removing lug nuts but not as well as the Makita.
Recommendation
Overall giving solid performance, this would a good choice for those who don’t need the tools as strong as the previous two on the list and who don’t want to break the bank when purchasing it.
4. Bauer Impact Driver
This impact driver has a powerful motor that delivers 1300 in. lbs. of torque and it has an all-metal gear construction that improves life and durability of this tool. It didn’t perform as stellar as the rest but it still gave decent results during tests.
- Torque and power
Bauer finished last in both reverse and forward rotation tests (900 and 1375 PSI respectively) and it struggled in the more heavy – duty tasks but it was solid during the less complicated ones. - Durability
Compared to the others, it had damage during the drop test and it didn’t continue to work seamlessly after that. - Speed
Just like Dewalt, it was overheating during the extended use and it was much slower in removing lug nuts.
Recommendation
Nevertheless, this impact driver would make a solid choice for DIY users.
Conclusion
An honorable mention on this list is the Ryobi Impact Driver. It’s similar to Bauer when it comes to performing heavy – duty tasks so it’s better for those who want to use it in light to medium tasks, and not professionally.
Based on the list, the obvious choice would be the Milwaukee Impact Driver outperforming the rest with enviable speed and power, while Makita comes as a close second but at a bigger price. Dewalt was a worthy oponent and Bauer would be a solid choice for personal use. Hopefully this list makes your decision making easier!