While cordless impact drivers still aren’t quite as in-demand as cordless drills, interest in these high-powered fastening tools continues to grow. It’s easy to see why – they’re often lightweight, compact, and high-powered.
Plus, impact drivers offer high fastener-driving torque without recoil. You might sometimes seem them advertised or described as delivering reactionless torque. Unlike drills, impact drivers don’t kickback or expose users to counter-rotational torque.
That’s not to say that impact drivers are better than drills, although they are certainly different. Impact drivers excel at driving fasteners, while cordless drills are great at boring holes and driving fasteners with repeatable depth and precision.
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These days, there are two main kinds of impact drivers – single speed, and multi-speed. You will also find those with brushless motors, and those with non-brushless (brushed) motors. Often, but not always, brushless impact drivers will also offer multiple speed and torque settings.
I have used many different brands, models, and styles of impact drivers in recent years. For this best cordless impact driver roundup, I started off by thinking about the best impact driver models I have used. The discussion was supposed to be quick and focused, but there are too many very highly recommended models that I couldn’t leave out.
As a reminder, impact drivers should be used with impact-rated screwdriver bits. Impact-rated bits are made from tougher steel than non-impact bits, which reduces the likelihood that they will break apart or shatter during use. Some work with 1″ insert bits, but most work best or exclusively with 2″ power bits or bit holders.
Best 18V: Milwaukee M18 Fuel (Brushless)
Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel impact driver, which is available by itself (2653-20), as part of a compact Li-ion battery kit (2653-22ct), and as part of a high capacity battery kit (2653-22), is very good at what it does.
This impact is comfortable to use, runtime is great, and its brushless motor delivers gobs of fastener-tightening power. The multiple speed and torque settings come in handy when you need to drive in smaller fasteners.
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There are plenty of user conveniences as well, such as the battery’s built-in LED fuel gauge, which is positioned at the front of the tool and is easily accessed, the removable belt hook, and the LED worklight. To be fair, belt hooks and LED worklights are pretty standard these days, although the LED battery fuel gauge design is still the most practical one I’ve seen yet.
Milwaukee might not have come out with the most compact impact driver, but the M18 Fuel brushless model is a solid performer all around.
Kit pricing is understandably a little high. But, if you already bought into Milwaukee’s M18 power tool lineup, you can add the bare tool to your tool collection for just $129.
This is the model you want if you’re look for the best cordless impact driver.
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Runner Up for Best 18V: Makita LXDT06 (Brushless)
The Makita 18V LXDT06 impact driver came close to besting the Milwaukee M18 Fuel, if not for the Milwaukee’s added power, greater user friendliness, and lower price.
Makita’s LXDT06 is still plenty powerful, and still looks to be the most compact impact driver currently on the market, at least in the USA. Overseas, there’s a new Makita 18V impact driver (TD148D) that is almost ridiculously compact, while still offering lots of torque and great features.
This Makita also sports a brushless motor, which of course means greater runtime compared to brushed motor impacts.
It also offers an automatic downshifting setting that certain users might find useful. When you toggle this mode, the driver will start off in high speed, and then shifts to a lower speed and torque setting once the tool senses resistance as a fastener is closer to being driven into position. Or you could just manually select from among the three torque and speed settings.
The only major downside to the LXDT06 is its somewhat high price. Just the bare tool, without batteries or a charger, will set you back about $189. A 2-battery kit will cost you about $350-$360.
A minor downside is the lack of a battery fuel gauge. On the plus side, Makita’s batteries charge super fast on their actively cooled rapid charger.
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Editor’s Choice: Dewalt DCF886 (Brushless)
The Dewalt DCF886 brushless impact driver isn’t the brand’s first brushless 20V Max model; that honor goes to the Dewalt DCF895 impact driver, a model I really don’t like using. The DCF895 is compact, it features three speed and torque settings, and its brushless motor provides for plenty of power and runtime. But its bit holder is really hard to get used to.
The DCF886 doesn’t offer multiple speed and torque settings. Nor can Dewalt claim this driver is “best-in-class” in any regard. However, it’s a very solid-performing impact driver that is comfortable to use. It’s simple, and its brushless motor delivers a good balance between power and runtime.
This impact driver isn’t a super-featured premium model, but instead seems to be the brushless evolution of Dewalt’s DCF885 impact, a model I only mentioned in deal posts here and there a few times since its release a couple of a years ago.
I like this impact driver because it’s comfortable to use, and it just plain works. It’s priced at about $130 for the bare driver, $200 for the compact 2-battery kit, and about $280 for a combo kit that also includes a brushless drill/driver.
Even with better impact drivers at my disposal, I sometimes find myself searching this one out, at least when my personal Bosch 18V impact is nowhere to be found.
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Best Budget 18V: Porter Cable 20V Max
I know I might hear some complaints from Porter Cable’s product team for saying this, but the Porter Cable PCC640 20V Max impact driver, along with their PCC600 drill/driver, are jewels that stand out from a rather ordinary and mediocre 20V Max cordless power tool lineup.
Not that ordinary and mediocre is bad. In fact, I own a couple of Porter Cable’s 18V tools, and bought them because they offer okay features and deliver reasonably okay performance at great prices.
If you picked up another tool from the expanded Porter Cable 20V Max lineup first, you might be mistaken into thinking the impact driver was another so-so performer. But it’s not.
Porter Cable’s 20V Max impact driver isn’t a stellar performer, but it is very solidly built and offers reliable and consistent performance. It delivers pro-grade results at consumer-friendly prices.
The 2-battery kit is priced at $125 most of the time, but sometimes it goes up to $140, and other times it goes down to $99.
If you’re on a tighter budget, this is the impact to buy, at least if you want a little extra robustness. This Porter Cable impact feels a little more solid than say, Ryobi or Craftsman’s $100-$125 impact driver kits.
There is a downside to the PCC640: a lot of guys cannot stand the way it looks.
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Special Mention 18V: Bosch Hybrid 18V (Brushless)
The Bosch IDH182 18V hybrid brushless impact driver is part impact driver, part impact wrench. It first debuted as an 18V brushed motor hybrid impact in Europe before evolving into a brushless model that was released internationally.
With this model you get great maximum torque that’s higher than even Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel model could muster, as well as multiple speed and torque settings. You also get great runtime thanks to the brushless motor. Besides all those things, you get a combination 1/4″ hex bit holder and 1/2″ square drive anvil.
Due to the hybrid bit holder and socket driver design, the Bosch IDH182 isn’t quite as compact as a standalone single-purpose impact driver. It’s a great multi-functional and versatile cordless tool, but not quite in the running for best overall impact driver.
This is the impact to buy if you often find yourself switching between an impact driver and an impact wrench or square drive bit adapters.
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Best 12V: Milwaukee M12 Fuel
There’s no beating around the bush. The Milwaukee M12 Fuel impact driver, which I reviewed a while ago, is the best compact cordless impact I’ve used thus far.
Brushless motor? Check.
Multiple speed and torque settings? Check.
Comfortable tool balance and ergonomics? Check.
Battery fuel gauge? Check.
Excellent quick-change chuck? Check.
The M12 Fuel impact driver, model 2453, delivers power when you need it (1,200 in-lbs), and lower torque (175 in-lbs) when you need greater finesse and precision. Its grip feel as though it was sculpted to fit my hand. Seriously, it’s that comfortable and well balanced.
Other brands’ impact drivers can do the job, but Milwaukee’s does it a little better. At this time, I’m not even sure there are any other 12V-class brushless impact drivers currently on the market. That’s not to say that other brands’ brushed motor impact drivers are slouches, but if you want the best, this is it.
Buy Now(Kit via Home Depot)
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Editor’s Choice 12V: Ingersoll Rand W1110
I was kind of hard on Ingersoll Rand when they first announced their 12V line of cordless power tools. But now that I have actually used their IQV12 impact driver, I totally get it.
Ingersoll Rand designed this impact driver – and their other 12V cordless tools – for automotive techs and industrial users. Its plastic grip and housing materials are specially formulated to resist common automotive fluids, solvents, and chemicals, and the polished aluminum gearbox is both easy to clean and durable enough to shrug off bumps and bangs with ease.
I’ve used plenty of superb impact drivers, including the aforementioned Milwaukee Fuel model, but this one has a somewhat greater indestructible feel to it.
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Best Budget 12V: Bosch PS41
Quite frankly, I’m not sure how Bosch is able to offer their PS41 2-battery impact driver kit for less than $115. It can deliver up to 930 in-lbs of torque, which is plenty powerful for a compact impact.
Even after being on the market for more than 4 years now, the PS41 is still one of the most compact and comfortable 12V impact drivers I’ve used. Its design doesn’t even seem to be getting long in the tooth, as its ring-style LED worklight and built-on LED battery fuel gauge are timeless conveniences.
I almost feel bad calling the Bosch PS41 a budget model, as it is comfortable, durable, and powerful enough for a majority of professional users and applications, yet priced low enough for DIYers, hobbyists, and homeowners.
This is the best budget-without-being-a-budget-model-by-design impact driver currently available.
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Reader’s Choice
Do you agree with my picks? Disagree? Please chime in with your own comments, opinions, and recommendations!
Also, please note that I haven’t tested every single impact driver under the sun. I’ve tested very many models, but there are those I haven’t even handled or seen in person yet. If there’s a model you’d like to see considered for the next iteration of this review/roundup, please let me know and I’ll see what I can do.
Seth
No mention of the nextec RAID? I know it has a very uncertain future but that little wonder comes in very handy very often. It’s no tool to build a deck with but if will certainly get into places other drivers cannot.
Stuart
The Craftsman Nextec RAID is an okay right angle impact driver, bit it’s not as good as others. I need to test more right angle impacts before I could create a “best” category for them, but the RAID would definitely at least be mentioned as a “budget” recommendation. It’s very inexpensive at Sears, and goes on sale a couple of times a year. Last August it was just $40 for the 1-battery kit,
Matt Hirn
I inherited a Craftsman Nextec RAID from the guy who previously did my job. I originally used it in tight spaces, but I quickly found myself using it on most of my project builds. It is incredibly light and with the trigger right up at the top, tool control is better than anything I have used. After four years of steady use, it is still going strong. Definitely a great budget driver for tight spaces in my book.
Matt
I have a perhaps outdated, perhaps redundant question that i hope someone reads and can provide an answer.
Im on the market for a 12v impact to compliment a Festool TXS 10.8v drill driver, something torqueir to drive fasteners.
I have test drove nearly everything i can get my hands on. The new Makita with slide pack, both m12 offerings, bosch, the older makita, the Hitachi and dewalts dated version. My next step is the newer Hilti or the Ingersoll Rand. All have their pros and cons. I like one handed load chucks, 2ah batt offerings and belt clips. I like the ergonomics of the dewalt, makita and hitachi. I like the power and platform of the m12 fuel. My rant could go on.
My true question is why with all these new offerings does the dewalt 12v impact with 1.5ah batts remain up their in cost?
Its only $30 cheaper than the milwaukee fuel. You can buy a makita 12v kit with slide packs for about the same price. Is it this great of a machine? Is it compareable at $139 (in upstate ny) to, spec wise, better tools?
Me
Impact drivers (I have the milwaukee m18 fuel) are the best possible solution for driving long screws with no backing the screw in and out to get it in all the way. Works great for driving lag screws. I use mine for ever screw and bolt style from Phillips, square and torx to 3/4″ hex (with a 1/4 hex to 3/8 square drive and a set of impact sockets. The m18 fuel packs enough punch to twist a 1/4-20 bolt clean in half if you get carried away. It’s rigid enough to withstand drops and falls. You can’t go wrong with an m18 impact driver and the battery life really is excellent!
regopit
I have the Bosch 18V Hybird and the only problem that I have come across is the the 1/4″ hex does not always lock in with all hex bits I think that it has to do with how the detent is cut in the bit, They all fit but some can be pulled out with no problem and others lock in.
James
I’ve experienced this problem with my 12v fuel milwaukee too
DanG
I know these impact drivers are wonderful for removing lug nuts on tires but what other nifty functions do these impact driver perform well at. I want to get my first impact driver but I need to convince my wife that there are other purposes for this tool other than removing tires. Right now I use an air wrench to take off the tires. Using air tools is fun, I love the humming noise they make and the pssssst pop sound the tools make they are disconnected. It makes me feel like a professional auto mechanic. I do hate lugging the hose all over the garage and out to the driveway and have it get caught on everything on the ground. I’ve spilled many drinks and dumped lots of automobile fluids in the process of reaching my destination with the air hose. Help me convince my wife that a cordless impact driver is what I need for Christmas. I’ll do the convincing on the brand with Stuart’s help on this article.
Stuart
Impact wrenches, at least heavier duty ones, are better suited for lug nut duty. There are some great user comments in our lug nut cordless impact wrench discussion.
Impact drivers are great for driving longer or larger fasteners, but ones with 2 or 3 torque and speed settings can more easily be used with smaller screws with less risk of fastener damage.
While it might be possible to remove smaller or looser lugs, this is not the type of tool you want for lug nut removal. Impact drivers are more designed for fastener installation, while impact wrenches have the oomph to break stubborn lugs free.
Impact drivers are also great for larger hole drilling applications. While I don’t like using these with drill bits, I warmed up to the idea of using them with hole saws and larger bits like that – impact-rated of course.
Even in driving situations where a drill might have sufficient torque to seat a large or long fastener, an impact driver will usually do it quicker.
An impact wrench can be used with a bit holder adapter so you can attach screwdriver bits. A heavy duty wrench won’t be anywhere as compact as one of these impact drivers, but it will save you from having to buy two tools, at least at first. BUT, you would probably also want to buy a multi-speed impact wrench, as the max torque on a heavy duty model would be difficult to control when driving in smaller fasteners.
The Bosch hybrid model above is more designed for fastener applications. As with the impact drivers, it might have enough torque to handle some lug nuts, but it’s not going to be the tool you want when you need to break free long-seated, seized, rusted, over-torqued, or stubborn lugs.
DanG
Thanks Stuart, I did not know you can’t really use these on wheel lug nuts. Guess I’m going to have to tell the wife to buy me another type of tool for Christmas. I read an article on a Craftsman model awhile back and it reviewed the torque rating and how it was good for tires, so assumed all impact wrenches were good for tire removal.
Stuart
In theory, an impact driver *should* be powerful enough to be able to remove lug nuts. In practice, it can remove lug nuts in many cases, but in less-than-ideal situations, you’re going to need more power.
It can also be awkward to attach a 1/4″ hex to square drive adapter and then a large socket.
Additionally, removing heavy lugs can be tasking on an impact driver, as they’re not optimized for this type of use.
Looking at the Craftsman heavy duty impact wrench that came out a couple of months ago, it delivers up to 300 ft-lbs (3600 in-lbs) of torque. The best of these compact impact drivers tops out at about 1600 in-lbs.
With an impact driver, typical use involves driving fasteners. In such usage, the resistive torque builds up over time. Even if the delivered power approaches the limit of the tool, this typically only happens at the end when a fastener is nearly seated. When using an impact driver to break free a stubborn lug, you might need to run it at its full power for quite some time until the lug loosens up.
You should also keep in mind that I’m a “different tool for different tasks” kind of guy. Your best bet might be to give an impact driver a try to see if it can handle your lugs. If you tighten your own lugs and to proper torque levels, then you might not need to step up to an impact wrench. An impact wrench is certainly going to be the right tool, but you might not want to – or need to – buy two separate tools.
Josh
I have the bosch impact wrench (24618?) and while it can’t quite break free stuck lugs from alloy wheels, it’s quite handy for removing the lugs and reinstalling them. A 4-way nicely takes care of breaking them free in the first place.
dave9
An impact driver powerful enough to remove lug nuts is a great way to destroy 1/4″ bits. Literally, many won’t handle even 100 ft lbs.
Bikerdad
Put together a wooden swingset with an 18v impact driver. You’ll understand completely where they shine. They’re also great for putting together home gyms, etc. And for taking them apart.
They would be the absolute bestest cordless tool (other than flashlights) of all time if they had a clutch for controlling depth / tightness when driving fasteners. For fine control a drill/driver with a clutch is still better (if it’s got enough umph), but for applications where there isn’t an fine line between overdriving the fastener and getting it right, the impact driver is the bee’s knees.
John
After I bought a Makita 18V cordless kit a few years ago, I picked up their XWT05Z compact 1/2″ impact wrench for doing tire rotations and other mechanical work on my cars. It has plenty of torque for that as well as breaking corroded suspension bolts free when teamed with impact sockets. I have a deck project in my future and see it being very useful driving all of the new code required bolts and lags.
I also picked up a DeWalt DW2298 1/2″ square drive to 1/4″ hex chuck adapter a while back so I can use the impact wrench with regular impact rated driver bits and accessories. This isn’t my go-to way to drive screws but its a good backup since the package is a bit bulky and nose heavy but beats going back and forth between two bits when a project requires two different size / drive type fasteners at the same time.
http://www.makitatools.com/en-us/Modules/Tools/ToolDetails.aspx?Name=XWT05Z
http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DW2298-2-Inch-Square-Adaptor/dp/B001BZ9YZU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1413397112&sr=8-1&keywords=dw2298
Chris
The only problem I have with my M12 Fuel impact driver is that its causing me to want more M12 Fuel tools!
My 18V impact driver is old enough that the M12 Fuel version has more torque, weighs half as much (not even taking into account battery weight) and drives screws in faster. Its better in every way, enough so that Im considering replacing my 18V set with M12 Fuel versions completely.
Jason
It’s going all M12 is a viable option with the Fuel Sawzall and soon to be released Fuel circular saw.
Steve W
Don’t forget the M18 Fuel line up.
I have a M12 Fuel impact drill, and it honestly works as good or better than my old 18V Makita drill. For a 12v tool, its super torquey.
I’m sold on the Fuel lineup for sure. Even my go-to 18v Craftmans hammer drill is likely on the chopping block.
The 12v Fuel line up is light an powerful, great for everyday stuff… and the 18v Fuel will give some serious competition to my corded tools.
Shopping List:
18v Fuel BAND SAW
18v Fuel 1/2″ Impact Wrench
18v Fuel impact drill.
I remember reading about Milwaukee’s Fuel lineup years ago, but until I tried them, I had no idea how well they actually perform. The 18v Fuel is actually more impressive cordless tools out there IMO. The 28v lineup from Milwaukeee is still the cordless king of grunt… but you don’t need/want that kind of heavy tool for normal stuff.
12v Fuel and 18v Fuel are gonna cost me some cash to swap in… but its worth it.
Jeremy
I think the only change for me would be I would put the Makita above the milwaukee for 18v. Just my personal preference.
fred
At the beginning of the summer, I bought a Milwaukee 2765-22 (M18 7/16 hex impact driver) kit after I saw your post back in May. I bought it as I was planning to construct a number of raised beds (2×8’s fastened to posts sunk into the soil) in the garden – and thought that my M12 2450-20 was not up to the task – and running an air hose from the garage (piped up to my shop air compressor) to use my CP impact gun was not going to be too handy. I considered buying a cordless ½ inch impact gun – but thought that the 2675 would be more useful. I also bought a couple of Proto 7/16 Hex to Square adapters (J7121 and J 7111) so that I could use ½ inch and 3/8 inch drive impact sockets to drive lags for the project. I can now say that the tool was up to the task – my wife likes the raised beds and surrounding cedar seating. I used the 2675 for both fastening and drilling (7/16 hex ship auger bits) tasks and it did Yeoman work.
Boyd
I have both the m12 fuel impact driver and the dewalt dcf886. I like the dewalt much better. First, it feels better in my hand. Second, it’s actually shorter in length where it matters most. Third, it has more power. I do use both every day but tend to reach for the dewalt more often. One of the main problems I have with the fuel is that sometimes when I squeeze the trigger absolutely nothing happens. Just the 4 lights flash. It does it whether the battery is fully charged or near dead. It happens at the worst times. Maybe it’s only mine that does this. Either way I don’t feel that it’s as reliable as it should be. 18v size 12v power.
Scott Davis
Yes my m12 does that too every once and awhile. I always think the battery is dead when it does it.
Adam
This has happened to me as well – multiple times in fact. I was able to isolate the problem to the battery not making full contact with the tool. A quick release of the battery, slam it back in, and I’m good to go. Of course, murphy’s law is always in effect and I find myself 30 feet up with no juice….
While I’m still trying to break my brushed M12 tools in the hopes of scoring some brushless upgrades, I can’t seem to do it. Believe me, I’m trying….
Boyd
Always at the worst possible times! Glad I’m not the only one this happens too. I don’t have to pull the battery out just squeeze the trigger again and it usually works. Sometimes I also get a slight delay from the time I squeeze the trigger until the motor actually starts turning. My brushed m12 impact driver never had this problem.
joe
“One of the main problems I have with the fuel is that sometimes when I squeeze the trigger absolutely nothing happens.”
Thats the “electronic brake” kicking in….which is why I would rather have a “smarter” trigger than electronics deciding for me. NO thanks! For me regarding electronic braking, I would rather have full control.
The hype is strong with Milwaukee tools. Lol
I have mentioned a couple of times that their premium FUEL drill has plastic transmission housing, all current premium, or even 12v, dewalts have all metal transmission housing.
You can see the m18 fual plastic transmission housing here when I took it apart…
http://i.imgur.com/RO9id2N.jpg
Boyd
I use dewalts for my heavy duty applications and m12s for lighter duty stuff. The only reason I chose the m12 over the dewalt 12v is the amount of tools they make that I use on a daily basis as an RV technician.
Dom
Are you Don Boyd??
Steve W
That picture shows a metal sleeve, backed by a plastic sleeve/filler, inside what looks like a magnesium alloy exterior.
We’re talking about a case right? not the actual gears or any direct drive components.
You can say what you want about Milwaukee’s prices or style, but questioning their LACK of durability is a new one. I need more photos/experience with that unit to believe it. :-/
chris
Been using the 895 dewalt since it came out and could never imagine switching, To me by far the best bar none… Short, perfect balanced feel in my hand, best grip of the bunch and bit holder IMO is very easy to use… Runtime is unreal with a 4.0 and power is hard to beat as well, Milwaukee is heavy, larger more uncomfortable grip, and longer… The rest well, never used to many because hard to get around here
Larson
I thought Bosch was coming out with a brushless 12v impact?
Stuart
I have seen listings for a PS42 brushless impact driver, but haven’t seen any announcements yet, or even as much as a product image or technical specs. Even if I did, I can I only recommend tools I’ve tested.
Bikerdad
I am SOOOO looking forward to Bosch filling out their 12v Brushless. I have 5 of the 12v tools (3/8″ drill, impact, 2 1/4″ drivers and the oscillating multi-tool), which means I’ve got a slew of batteries that I can use. I’ll be down for a new 3/8″ drill, new impact, and a brushless “sawzall” critter. Then I can give away the two 1/4″ drivers…. 🙂
FSS
How come there’s no love for Hilti here? Hilti cordless drills and impact drivers are the best I’ve used, and I am a heavy drill/impact user. The only downside is the cost.
Stuart
I only considered brands and models I’ve tested or used. The number of tools constantly grows over time, but I have yet to get my hands on any Hilti models for testing.
If there’s a particular model you want to see considered, or can personally recommend, let me know. Reader recommendations are just as helpful to other readers as my own.
Paul
Did 18-a hilti Impact driver . I want to see it being put through some heavy testing torque and durability meaning dropping
Matthew Bates
I have four sets of 18 volt hititci drivers I have a box full of 20 volt DeWalt junk and I wouldn’t own a fuel to heavy
Javier
All great choices Stuart. Another great 12v option would be the dewalt 12v max impact driver. It can hold it’s own because it’s quite powerful while compact and light.
Steve Cox
No C3 love? I have both the original and the new 3 speed. Works great and the price is right.
Stuart
I haven’t tried the Craftsman C3 multi-speed impact driver yet, but even if I did, it would have really only been in the running for “best budget” slot. The Porter Cable, although not as powerful and only with a single speed torque setting, is often less expensive and includes a second Li-ion battery. I suppose the C3 would have been the next best budget or affordable model.
Joel
Thanks for the information, Stuart. I have been going back and forth between the Dewalt brushless models, and your comments about the simplicity and comfort are a very strong argument for the DCF886.
Ed
Joel, I was flummoxed by Stuart saying the DCF895 ‘bit holder is really hard to get used to’ I have got one and find changing bits very easy and quick. Can only think Stuart’s hands are on auto pilot and forget bit removal is different. Which ever hand is on the handle just press the yellow button with your index finger and bit will fall out. The fact 895 has 3 speed selection is a big plus for me (I only have 1 impactor for all round use). General Dewalt points the handle is comfortable particularly if you have small hands like me, but when I originally looked for an impact and drill last year I thought Makita was the most comfortable, Panasonic was also good. Bosch (before the above 18/20v impactor above came out which I think has a different shaped design) seemed in the dark ages. Only minor negative of the DCF895 is I found due to the effectively widening of the chuck face I need a bit holder or longer bit than 2″ when using clamps very close to where I am driving a screw in etc. Also the 3 led lights round the chuck could be improved, it is a lot better than one led above the trigger which is not far from useless found on most makes but either a ring or more leds + whiter light for me would be better. If I was looking for one today I would consider the new 20v Bosch along with the 895 Dewalt. That’s my pennies worth anyway.
Stuart
Muscle memory wasn’t really the issue. The unit I tested didn’t pop bits out strongly enough, and so I had to pull some of them out with my free hand. This was on top of the release button that required me to change my hand grip.
It’s a great driver, but the unconventional bit holder mechanism becomes a personal preference consideration. I just didn’t get used to it quickly enough, and ended up shelving the test unit.
Ryan
totally agree. I bought the milwaukee fuel line (both 18v and 12v) for my cabinet shop based on reviews here and other sites. they are without a doubt the best cordless tools I’ve ever used.
Steve W
Agree’d. I don’t usually favor one brand over another… I compare and pick the best example of each type of tool. My hand tools range between Snap On, MAC, Craftsman, and even some Kobalt, based on quality.
I have NEVER, EVER, had a good experience with any Black & Decker corded or cordless tools… ever. That is one brand I’ll never waste my time with again. Milwaukee is ALWAYS a solid performer though a little heavy due to their heavy-duty focus with materials. Makita usually has a nice balance between weight and power. When picking a specific tool though, I always liked picking them individually… but with the Fuel line up I’ve tried I’m sold. No more wall of 4 different batter chargers… they’re all getting tossed for Fuel 12v and 18v charger.
joe
I bought a dewalt impact driver and then bought the anvil for like 30 bucks….in essence I converted a dewalt impact driver to an impact wrench….the wrench I use it to remove my 20” wheels from my truck and various other stubborn things….
I have two impacts by dewalt…a driver and a wrench….the beauty is that dewalt is a good quality brand that there is no shortage for replacement parts. The difference in converting a ni-cad premium drill to a li-ion premium drill is mostly in the plastic molding.
I don’t picture myself doing the same thing with other brands. And I just can’t get over the fact that Milwaukee premium drill has a plastic transmission housing.
Their impact won’t have a plastic housing since it’s mostly, motor → spring → hammer. I have taken apart air and battery ones and know they work on the same principle.
At any rate, dewalt is the winner for me.
jason. w
Is this only for tools released in 2014? Otherwise i got to add ryobi to the mix. Their p236 is great. Probably the cheapest (maybe porter cable has them beat?) and the thing runs lime a champ. It went be the most powerful by anymeans. But for a budget you really can’t go wrong. I use the thing daily and so far haven’t found anything it can’t remove.
Ive dropped it, Dragged it around in crawl spaces, Covered it in dust and insulation, gotten soot all over it, and yet the thing keeps going like nothing happened.
Stuart
No. The year is just to show when the reviews have been last refreshed. I don’t anticipate testing many more new impacts in the next couple of months, and so these reviews probably won’t be updated for a while. The “best cordless drills” roundup, on the other hand, will probably be refreshed in early-to-mid 2015, and will be dated accordingly.
The Ryobi P236 is a fantastic bargain, but add in the cost of getting started with batteries and a charger, the Porter Cable wins out a little. For someone looking to buy into a product line, the Ryobi would definitely be the better choice, as they offer greater tool selection. Ryobi tools compete well against most of Porter Cable’s other 20V Max cordless tools.
Chris
Surprised there is no mention of Hitachi in your lineup.
Seth
If you’ve ever had a broken hitachi hammer drill you’ll see why there is no mention. First they wanted me to drive an hour and a half for the warranty, then only 45 minutes… bosch however, when I had a impact that was used daily suddenly not be able to push in tapcons, had a new one on my door step the next day under warranty. Furthermore, I’ve had a broken dewalt planer, again drive somewhere. Don’t own milwaukee, but the ones at work are somehow always stolen before they break.
Lambcraft
Why isn’t Festoo on the list? They were the first to have brushless motors and lithium batteries.
Weston
Sorry, but the Milwaukee was absolutely terrible for us the impact driver completely died within 3 months of use. Meanwhile we still have some of the old blue Ryobi’s still going strong and they have been used and abused for years.
Brock
I think it’s fair to say that Makita has ruled this category for a long time, and if only now it is being (barely) eclipsed by Milwaukee, then so be it. All of these impacts looks suspiciously similar to the Makita. This is basically the same Makita impact that’s been around since at least 2007. Back then, all other cordless impacts were obsolete in comparison (in my humble opinion.) Almost all had big chunky NiMh batteries and funky ergonomics.
As a homeowner, you should have an impact if you can only have one drill/driver. Most of the homeowner tasks involve driving screws…not drilling holes (be honest with yourself.) Most magazine reviews seem to discount the utility of an impact. They are so amazingly handy.
One thing never mentioned is how easy impacts make driving long screws. With a regular drill you must apply a lot of force to keep from stripping the screw head (more force than many are able to provide by what I’ve seen.) The impact, by comparison, allows almost effortless driving.
Thanks for a nice write-up.
Steve W
True, long screws take a lot more torque to drive deep… but you should be pre-drilling any holes you put more than 1″ into wood.
That said, impact drills are your best option for drilling, driving, or removing screws when going deep.
Try driving a couple 3″ screws into a door jam and you’ll be shocked how fast they’ll strip or bend if you don’t pre-drill the holes. It’ll also eat battery quick.
There’s still need for corded tools, and I default to them when its convenient for big projects…
aleks
@Brock
Agreed and there is an even newer impact by Makita that goes beyond any of these, they may not be the best at everything but Makita has had the impact driver figured out for a while and still is ahead of the game in all categories on their new TD148D with 5.0 AH batteries (Metabo has 5.2 AH but Makitas efficiency and fast charge still wins out)
My introduction to Makita was the first lithium Makita impact kit in 2006 or 7… blew everything else out of the water at the time, so far I have upgraded 4 times since then to the newer makita driver.
Joseph S.
Having both the Milwaukee and Makita impacts (not bragging, I have a serious tool addiction issue), I agree that the Makita Impact is slightly better than the Milwaukee when all factors are addressed. The Milwaukee has a slightly better torque rating, but the Makita is more compact, better balanced, and has extremely better ergonomics. Plus, in my observations, it seems that even brushed Makita tools run longer than Brushless Milwaukee tools (again, in my experience).
david
For a 1/2 drive there isn’t anything better than Ingersoll Rand w7150-k2 I’ve used them all and the only one that even comes close to it is the snap-on 1/2! I work on trucks and build mud trucks there no one problem I’ve ever had! I quit using my air gun I now use this for everything
Russ Franey
I own the 895 dewalt, and for the first month I agreed with you. I couldn’t see the advantage of the push button release. But now I believe it is the best on the market. Once you get used to the push button, everything else feels awkward. My hats off to dewalts r and d. It is the the best designed tool I’ve ever used. The push button being just 1 of the many facets of this tool I have learned to appreciate.
Toolpig
I was just wondering if you are going by published torque ratings or if you have a way to actually test the torque output yourself. I have all brands of tools. Hence the name. I have found your runner up impact driver to be more powerful than the winner. It consistently drives large bolts and screws faster It seems to run longer on a charge as well. My most important reason for liking the Makita better than the fuel though is trigger control. The fuel has a horrible variable speed switch. Even the regular M18 has a better trigger. The Makita while more powerful, also offers much more control. You will strip far fewer screws with it when installing cabinet hardware. Even taking into account the 3 speed settings still give the advantage to Makita. It also makes driving drywall screws much easier than with the fuel. I have 2 cordless drywall guns but many people hang drywall with an impact. The ONLY drawback is price. But since when has cheap= good ? The new TD 148D from Japan is even better. It is much smaller with even more power. It is also the DTD 148 in some countries. In the U.S. It is the XDT 09. It is set to be the world dominator. You are missing out if you are using a fuel instead. The difference is so huge that I sold my fuel and bought another black TD148D from Japan.
Joe Lusk
I work in the federal contracting field. I’ve used dealt 18 and 20v, milwalkee m18 fuel and the Ridgid 18v 1/4 impacts. By far my favorite is the Ridgid. Hands down. Put together a steel playground set with it at a church on post. The Dewalt 18v XRP burnt up under the same strain as the Rigid. The milwalkee lasts longer in battery life and is a bit quieter. But the Rigid has more torque than both the milwalkee M18 Fuel and Dewalt 20v max impacts and it just got even better with the gen 5 rigid out now. My buddy just got one. About to trade in my Milwalkee.
Scott G.
I build Custom decks for a living and generally frame with Pressure treated yellow pine and 3″ deck screws. I have a ton of Ridgid tools that I use everyday. With that being said the worst tool Ridgid makes is their Impacts. I have been through 3 generations to include the latest 5th Generation and although they have good torque they just don’t hold up under heavy use. They have all overheated to the point you can’t handle them. I went to the Ryobi’s of which I had a lot of batteries about a year ago. You cant beat them, they drive 3″ deck screws and Ledger lock lags all day everyday without a problem I even had two of them dropped in the water on a boathouse job, blew them out and hey are still going. Only one killed the battery. Not a lot of features or ergonomics but true workhorses.
Gary
The Makita in ANY speed test will literally consume the Milwaukee. I know because I went through two M18 setups before finding an old beat up Makita in the road that dropped out of someones truck. I borrowed a fully charged battery and walla! it outperformed the Milwaukee hands down.. SO much more powerful. I have 50 years in the trades and use impact drivers more than any other battery operated tool… rarely drive a mail anymore..
Jacob Saddler
I have the Porter Cable PCC640 and have used it daily for the past 3 years at my job as a machine technician and it has performed very well for me I have no complaints its a reliable impact for the money.
Landis
How can you ‘review’ an impact driver and NOT mention Any specs.
Most importantly, the Torque.
I’ve used most of them and the Ridgid driver is by far the best in Every category.
I wish it were either the Makita or Milwaukee.
Useless.
Tim
Amen. I own both the Dewalt and Makita drivers and they are collecting dust after trying the Rigid brand a few months back. Bumper to bumper lifetime warranty and at 2000 inch lbs of torque it eats the 3 brands mentioned for lunch. That’s not even talking about their lighted battery charge display, bit ejection system, touch tool lights etc. PLUS the purchase price is less too. Makes a guy wonder what basis they do their ratings on…..
Al Pellicano
Have anyOF YOU GUYS HEARD OF ROCKWELL . mOST ALL OF THE CORDLESS drill driver / impact tools are made in china and the best bang for the buck I think is Rockwell . Their free batteries for 20 years to life on some models is a hell on an incentive especiallyh when you see the prices the big boys charge namely Milwaukee , Dewalt etc. I have been a fan of Milwaukee fo0r many years but the price of their batteries is outrageous , I own both Milwaukee and dewalt tools but not their cordless varieties . I have purchased knock off batteries from e-bay for my 3/8 NiCad 18 volt hammer drill driver and it seems to be ok but we will see how long it lasts
Miss Franciene
I have 12 v Rigid and a12v Milwaukee, and a Craftsman 19.2 v I love all three but the Milwaukee really shines. All very nice tools for anyone!!!…interested in a impact driver….
mike aka Fazzman
Ive used my impacts both 12v and 20v for numerous fastening tasks at home and at the shop and they are awesome.. I have the porter cable 20v lineup that thing is a beast,I also have bosch 12v Granted its not as powerful as the 12v fuel but its way smaller,compact, and easy to handle and Bosch is bullet proof as far as abuse they can take.
I wish Bosch would come out with some more brushless 12v items,id be all over that.
Paul
I have dcf 895 have bin using for 3 years now no problems with run time torque feels good in hand .
But it feels cheepo the battery is clumsy and loose and wobbles when in the drill belt hock gets loose all the time .
Simple detail like that makes me want to switch to something els .
I was looking for hilti tools , I don’t have proble paying a price if the tool is well build but than yet they are made in China that throws you off.
I don’t know .
I don’t like how the new impacts don’t have 4 screws that screw in front I think that it would be allot stronger in case the tool falls out from a higher place your working .
I know that dewalt dcf895 has it hilti sid 18 a has it makita has it .
Is it worth switching to hilti ? And why would they star making stuff in China and why they not upgrading ?
Lindsey
Dear ToolGuyd,
My name is Lindsey and I am a Product Line Administrator at Kimball Midwest based out of Columbus, Ohio. I recruit in different products into our product line. I just want to say that your website has given me an outlook on different products, the goods, the bads and just overall reviews on what actual people think. I just wanted to say thank you for having this website, and keep on doing what you are doing, you are awesome!
Toolpig
Landis and Tim. Haha the published “torque” ratings by Ridgid are way over inflated. I know Milwaukee fudges the numbers but Ridgid out right lies about them. I bought the new Gen 5x drill and impact and they were not able to outperform tools with much lower ratings. Here are 2 examples. I compared the brushless hammer drill with 700 inch pounds of torque to the Milwaukee compact brushless hammer drill with a 500 inch pound torque rating. The milwaukee completely destroyed the rigid in drilling performance and Lag bolt driving torque. I then compared the ridgid impact driver with 2250 inch pound rating against the Makita XDT 09 impact with a mere 1550 inch pound rating. The Makita is two thirds of the size and weight and yet eats the Ridgid for lunch. I have posted a few videos of these tests on my Instagram page. Torque ratings on paper really mean very little. If you have a Ridgid tool that outperforms a Makita I’m sure it’s an older model.
Boyd
“””As a reminder, impact drivers should be used with impact-rated screwdriver bits. Impact-rated bits are made from tougher steel than non-impact bits, which reduces the likelihood that they will break apart or shatter during use.”””
This is great advice but I’ll have to respectfully disagree with what you say is the differences between non-impact and impact rated bits.
The harder they are the more brittle they are. For instance, impact rated sockets are actually softer than non-impact rated ones. That way they ‘give’ rather than shatter. 🙂
Stuart
For instance, impact rated sockets are actually softer than non-impact rated ones.
Yes, that’s exactly what I meant by “tougher steel.”
Andrew
Thanks for this article!
I realize it was written a while ago but at the moment, I could pick up the 20v Porter Cable drill+impact driver combo for basically the same price as a 12v Milwaukee combo. Which do you think is the better buy? I read more quality complaints about the PC although it certainly seems like a more powerful package, specwise. I’m more of a DIY home repair type but will occasionally run the tools hard if on a bigger project, remodel, drywall job, etc.
I appreciate your input!
Andrew
Correction: The 12v Milwaukee in question turned out to not be the Fuel brushless model. Didn’t really like the drill that came with that base M12 combo although there was a pricier 12v Milwaukee combo that came with a hammer drill which may still be an option for me.
I actually preferred Ridgid’s 12v Impact Driver+Drill combo to with the two different battery sizes to the basic M12 but there are presently no deals on that kit and the rest of their 12v line is pretty sad. The online price for the Ridgid Gen5 18v Driver/Hammer Drill combo is currently the same as the instore price on the 12v, so if I went with Ridgid, I’d go with that (I still don’t like that Ridgid’s jigsaw is a multi tool head).
So still trying to figure out my best choice for a sub $200 Driver/Drill combo. A friend keeps telling me Porter Cable is a sturdier option than Ridgid but I think he’s basing that off his experience with the brands 20 years ago.
mike
Try a hilt you will never use anything else after
John Fal
In my opinion the Dewalt DCF887 beats any of the impacts I’ve tried, Milwaukee and even the 2 in one Bosch, which I think is cool. The 887 has a nice 3 speed that gives you allot of control, so if working on delicate trim or finish work it gives you more control. Plus it drives just as tough and as fast as the Milwaukee. Another feature I like about it, is that it has a lip that makes it easyer to change bits in and out. I also Ike the three bright LEDs that let you work in almost any situation. Team it up with some Bosch impact bits or Milwaukee shock bits and you have a tough smooth working machine.
Richard woeckener
Im an hvacr tech…with out your drill kits you might as well go home..we use our drill kits so extensively…you have to have dependable tools…..we have broken dewalts..mikita..bosh..ryobie. These are my experiences …7 times sliding off the roof and on the ground….4 times fell from the attic to the basement…20 times throwing it across the floor for a co worker to use…6 times using the battery pack on the drill as a hammer. Plugging in my battery pack into my MILWAUKEE and it still works..PRICELESS!!!My drill kits LOOK LIKE HELL but still working….our kits include 18 v sawzall..hammer drill..impact drills..clamp on multimeter and flash lights. We are a multi million dollar hvacr company and we all agree that milwaukee is the most dependable through trail and fire!! ….and dont get me started me about craftsman(junk)buy it for your wife to use around the house!! Just speaking for myself….i do all my cordless shopping at CPO MILWAUKEE..but they carry all brands of cordless and remanufactured at great discounts and a full warranty if your wallet is light and tight!!