For driving screws and bolts with serious power, the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Impact Driver is our best overall pick. This tool packs a huge punch in a small size, has amazing control with its 3-speed settings, and is built tough for any job, making it the top choice for both pros and serious home users.
An impact driver is a must-have tool for any big project. It looks like a drill but works differently. It uses quick, powerful turning bursts to drive long screws and loosen tough bolts with ease. This power saves you time and saves your wrist from getting tired. We talked to experts and tested many tools to find the very best ones for you. This guide will show you our top picks and help you choose the perfect impact driver for your needs.
Our Top Picks
| Product Name | Key Feature | Best For | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit (CMCF800C1) | Complete Kit at a Low Price | Beginners and Budget | Buy Now |
| DEWALT 20V MAX XR Impact Driver (DCF845B) | 1,825 in-lbs of Torque & 3 Speeds | Overall Performance | Buy Now |
| RYOBI ONE+ 18V Impact Driver (PCL235) | 1,800 in-lbs Torque & Great Value | DIYers in the RYOBI System | Buy Now |
| Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless Impact Driver (3650-20) | Extremely Compact & Lightweight | Working in Tight Spaces | Buy Now |
| BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* Impact Driver Kit | Very Affordable Full Kit | Light Household Tasks | Buy Now |
| SKIL PWR CORE 12 Brushless 12V Impact Driver Kit | Halo Light & Fast Charging | Advanced Features on a Budget | Buy Now |
| BOSCH PS41-2A 12V Max Impact Driver Kit | Legendary Durability | Professionals Needing a Compact Tool | Buy Now |
| Greenworks 24V Brushless Impact Driver Kit | 24V Power & Includes Two Batteries | Homeowners Needing Power | Buy Now |
| Kobalt XTR 24-Volt Max Impact Driver | 2,400 in-lbs Torque (Advertised) | Extreme Power Needs | Buy Now |
| NAWIN 16.8V Brushless Impact Driver Kit | All-in-One Budget Kit | Small Jobs and First-Time Users | Buy Now |
| Makita XDT11Z 18V LXT Impact Driver | Professional-Grade Reliability | All-Around Professional Use | Buy Now |
| FLEX 24V Brushless Impact Driver Kit | 24V Power System & Lifetime Warranty | Demanding Job Site Use | Buy Now |
A Closer Look: Our In-Depth Reviews of the Best Impact Drivers
1. CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit (CMCF800C1) – Best on a Budget
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | CRAFTSMAN |
| Model | CMCF800C1 |
| Power Source | 20V MAX Battery (Kit) |
| Motor | Brushed |
| Torque | 1,460 in-lbs |
| Included | Tool, 1.3Ah Battery, Charger, Bit |
Our expert team found this CRAFTSMAN kit offers amazing value for the money. This impact driver comes with everything you need to get started: the tool, a battery, and a charger. It is a perfect choice for someone buying their first impact driver.
The tool has enough power for most jobs around the house, like building a deck or putting furniture together. Our experts were impressed with how easy it is to use. Changing bits is quick with the one-handed chuck, and the battery lasts a long time.
One main drawback is that the tool has only one speed. You control how fast it goes with the trigger, but there is no low-speed setting. This can make it tricky for very delicate work. For the price, though, it performs very well.
Overall, our experts found the CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX kit is the best starting point for new users. It is great for homeowners and DIYers who need a reliable tool without spending a lot.
Who Should Buy?
This is the perfect choice for a beginner, a homeowner, or anyone on a tight budget. If you need a complete kit that works well for projects around the house, this is a great deal.
2. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Impact Driver (DCF845B) – Best Overall
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | DEWALT |
| Model | DCF845B |
| Power Source | 20V MAX Battery (Bare Tool) |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Torque | 1,825 in-lbs |
| Speed Control | 3-Speed Selector + Variable Trigger |
| Weight | 2.1 lbs (Tool Only) |
Our expert team found this DEWALT is the king of impact drivers. It has a powerful brushless motor that gives it tons of strength for big jobs. This tool offers amazing control. The 3-speed button lets you choose low power for small screws or full power for huge bolts.
The small size is great for getting into tight spots. Our experts were very impressed with the three LED lights on the front. They light up your work area perfectly without any shadows. This makes it easy to see what you are doing.
During our testing, the DCF845B drove large screws faster than most other tools. Its ability to switch speeds so easily was a huge plus. We did notice it is sold as a “bare tool,” so you have to buy a battery and charger if you don’t own them already.
Overall, our experts found the DEWALT 20V MAX XR is a top-quality tool that can handle anything. It is perfect for professionals who need power and control every day.
Who Should Buy?
This is for the professional or serious DIYer who wants the best all-around performance. If you need a powerful, reliable, and precise impact driver for daily use, this is the one to get.
3. RYOBI ONE+ 18V Impact Driver (PCL235) – Best for RYOBI Fans
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | RYOBI |
| Model | PCL235 |
| Power Source | 18V ONE+ Battery (Bare Tool) |
| Motor | Brushed |
| Torque | 1,800 in-lbs |
| Speed | 3,400 RPM |
Our expert team found this RYOBI is a powerful and affordable choice, especially for those who already own RYOBI tools. This impact driver delivers a strong 1,800 in-lbs of torque, making it a true workhorse for all kinds of projects.
The biggest advantage is that it is part of the huge RYOBI 18V ONE+ system. This means your battery works with over 260 other tools, from drills to lawnmowers. Our experts were impressed with the tool’s power for its price. The trigger is also very sensitive, giving you good control over the speed.
This model has a brushed motor, which is not as modern as the brushless ones in more expensive tools. Also, remember it’s a “bare tool,” so you’ll need a RYOBI 18V battery and charger to use it.
Overall, our experts found the RYOBI ONE+ Impact Driver is a smart, powerful buy for anyone in the ONE+ family. It offers great performance for building decks, fences, and more.
Who Should Buy?
If you already own tools from the RYOBI 18V ONE+ system, this impact driver is a no-brainer. It’s a powerful and budget-friendly way to expand your tool collection.
4. Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless Impact Driver (3650-20) – Best for Tight Spaces
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Milwaukee |
| Model | 3650-20 |
| Power Source | 18V M18 Battery (Bare Tool) |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Max Speed | 3,600 RPM |
| Weight | 1.7 lbs (Tool Only) |
Our expert team found this Milwaukee is a tiny powerhouse. This impact driver has a strong brushless motor but is much smaller than many others. This makes it perfect for working in very tight spaces, like inside cabinets or engine bays.
The tool is very light, so your arm won’t get tired when working overhead. Our experts were particularly impressed with its speed. At 3,600 RPM, it drives screws incredibly fast, helping you finish jobs quicker. The all-metal gearcase also means it’s built to last on a tough job site.
During our testing, the 3650-20 felt great in the hand. Its ability to fit where other drivers could not was a game-changer. However, our team observed that some users got the tool in a bag instead of a box, which is something to know if you are buying it as a gift.
Overall, our experts found the Milwaukee M18 Compact is the best choice when size matters most. It is perfect for electricians, mechanics, and anyone who needs power in a small package.
Who Should Buy?
If you often work in cramped areas and need a tool that won’t weigh you down, this is for you. It’s ideal for pros who need a small, fast, and reliable impact driver.
5. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* Impact Driver Kit – Best for Light Tasks
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | BLACK+DECKER |
| Model | BDCI20C |
| Power Source | 20V MAX* Battery (Kit) |
| Motor | Brushed |
| Torque | 1,375 in-lbs |
| Included | Tool, 1.5Ah Battery, Charger, Bit |
Our expert team found this BLACK+DECKER kit is a simple and cheap solution for small jobs around the house. If you just need to hang some pictures, assemble a bookcase, or do light repairs, this tool is all you need.
The best thing about it is the price. It’s a full kit with a battery and charger for very little money. It is also very lightweight and easy to handle. Our experts found it is a great first power tool for someone who is not a serious DIYer. The battery also works with other BLACK+DECKER 20V tools for the home and garden.
This is not a powerful tool. It is not made for building a deck or other big projects. The included battery is also small and will not last for very long on big jobs. It is strictly for light-duty use.
Overall, our experts found the BLACK+DECKER kit is a good choice for quick and easy household tasks. It is an affordable way to add a useful tool to your home.
Who Should Buy?
This is for the casual homeowner who needs an impact driver for occasional, light tasks. If you just need something to drive a few screws and don’t want to spend much, this is a solid pick.
6. SKIL PWR CORE 12 Brushless 12V Impact Driver Kit – Best Features
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | SKIL |
| Model | ID6744A-10 |
| Power Source | 12V PWR CORE Battery (Kit) |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Torque | 1,500 in-lbs |
| Special Feature | Halo Light, 3-Speed Control |
Our expert team found this SKIL 12V driver is packed with cool, useful features. This impact driver has a brushless motor, multiple speed settings, and a special light that makes it stand out. It comes as a full kit with a battery and a super-fast charger.
The “Halo Light” is a bright ring of light on the front that gets rid of all shadows. Our experts were particularly impressed with this, saying it is better than the lights on much more expensive tools. The kit also includes a “PWR JUMP” charger that can give the battery a 25% boost in just 5 minutes.
Even though it is a smaller 12V tool, it is very powerful. The 3-speed control gives you the choice of being gentle or using full strength. However, it is still a 12V tool, so it might not be the best for all-day, heavy-duty construction.
Overall, our experts found the SKIL PWR CORE 12 offers pro-level features at a DIY price. It is great for someone who wants the latest tech in a small, easy-to-use package.
Who Should Buy?
This tool is for the tech-savvy DIYer who loves cool features. If you want a compact, powerful driver with an amazing light and fast charging, this SKIL kit is a fantastic choice.
7. BOSCH PS41-2A 12V Max Impact Driver Kit – Best for Durability
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Bosch |
| Model | PS41-2A |
| Power Source | 12V Max Battery (Kit) |
| Motor | Brushed |
| Torque | 930 in-lbs |
| Included | Tool, (2) 2.0Ah Batteries, Charger, Case |
Our expert team found this Bosch 12V driver is built to last forever. We heard from many users, including mechanics, who have used this same tool for over seven years without any problems. It is small, tough, and incredibly reliable.
This tool is very compact and light, making it a joy to use in tight spaces. The kit comes with two batteries that last a very long time, a charger, and a nice carrying bag. Our experts were impressed with how tough it feels. It’s a professional tool in a small package.
The main thing to know is that it has less power than bigger 18V or 20V tools. With 930 in-lbs of torque, it can handle most jobs, but it might struggle with the largest bolts. It also uses an older brushed motor.
Overall, our experts found the Bosch PS41-2A is the top choice if you want a tool that will never let you down. It is perfect for professionals who need a small, dependable driver for daily work.
Who Should Buy?
This is for the person who values reliability above all else. If you are a professional mechanic, technician, or installer who needs a compact tool that will work for years, this is it.
8. Greenworks 24V Brushless Impact Driver Kit – Best Complete Kit
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Greenworks |
| Model | ID24IDK2 |
| Power Source | 24V Battery (Kit) |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Torque | 1,950 in-lbs |
| Included | Tool, (2) 2.0Ah Batteries, Charger, Bits, Bag |
Our expert team found this Greenworks kit is an amazing deal. It comes with everything: a powerful brushless tool, two batteries, a charger, a bag, and even some bits. This is rare at such a low price.
The tool uses a 24V battery, which gives it more power than many 20V tools. It has plenty of torque for tough jobs, like driving big screws. Our experts found the build quality to be solid, with a nice rubber grip that feels good in the hand. The long 3-year warranty is also a big plus.
The one issue our team noted is that the trigger is very sensitive. It can be hard to go slow, as the tool wants to go full power all the time. This might make it tricky for very delicate tasks where you need fine control.
Overall, our experts found the Greenworks 24V kit gives you the most for your money. It’s perfect for homeowners who want a powerful, complete set without breaking the bank.
Who Should Buy?
This is for the budget-conscious buyer who wants a full, powerful, and modern brushless kit right out of the box. It’s great for home and yard projects.
9. Kobalt XTR 24-Volt Max Impact Driver – Best for Extreme Power
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Kobalt |
| Model | KXIW 124B-03 |
| Power Source | 24V Max Battery (Kit) |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Torque | 2,400 in-lbs (Advertised) |
| Special Feature | ASSIST Mode |
Our expert team found the advertised Kobalt XTR is a complete monster. With a claimed 2,400 in-lbs of torque, it is one of the most powerful impact drivers you can buy. It is designed for the toughest jobs imaginable.
The XTR line includes a special “ASSIST” mode. This feature helps prevent you from stripping screws by starting slow and then ramping up the power. Our experts love this kind of smart technology. The kit also includes a powerful 4.0Ah battery and a case, which is a great package if you get the right one.
However, there is a very big warning with this product. Many customers have reported that they did not get the powerful XTR model shown. Instead, they got a weaker, used, or different tool. This makes it a risky purchase online.
Overall, our experts found that while the real Kobalt XTR is an amazing tool, buying it from this specific link is not recommended due to seller issues.
Who Should Buy?
This tool is for someone who needs the absolute most power for heavy construction or automotive work. However, we strongly suggest buying this from a trusted store like Lowe’s to make sure you get the real XTR model.
10. NAWIN 16.8V Brushless Impact Driver Kit – Best Off-Brand Deal
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | NAWIN |
| Power Source | 16.8V Battery (Kit) |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Torque | ~1239 in-lbs |
| Included | Tool, (2) Batteries, Charger, Bits, Case |
Our expert team found this NAWIN kit offers a lot of modern features for a very low price. You get a brushless tool, two batteries, a case, and bits in one cheap package. For a beginner, it seems like a great deal.
The tool is surprisingly powerful for its size and has a 3-speed selector, which is great for control. Our experts were impressed that such a low-cost tool had these features. Some users have even said the tool is quite durable, lasting for over a year of use.
However, buying from an unknown brand comes with risks. The biggest complaint is that the batteries sometimes stop charging, which makes the tool useless. The design also has some flaws, like a poorly placed direction switch. Performance reviews are split, with some loving it and some hating it.
Overall, our experts found the NAWIN kit is a gamble. It could be an amazing deal, or it could be a headache. It’s best for small jobs where reliability is not the most important thing.
Who Should Buy?
This is for the person who loves a bargain and is willing to take a risk. If you need a cheap, feature-packed driver for very small projects and don’t mind the gamble, this could work for you.
11. Makita XDT11Z 18V LXT Impact Driver – Best Professional Workhorse
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Makita |
| Model | XDT11Z |
| Power Source | 18V LXT Battery (Bare Tool) |
| Motor | 4-Pole Brushed |
| Torque | 1,460 in-lbs |
| Weight | 2.8 lbs (with battery) |
Our expert team found this Makita impact driver is a true professional workhorse. It is known for being incredibly tough and reliable, making it a favorite on job sites everywhere. This tool offers a great mix of power, speed, and compact size.
The tool feels very solid, with an all-metal gear housing that adds to its durability. Our experts were impressed by its power. It can easily drive long screws and even handle some car repairs, like taking off lug nuts. For a “bare tool,” it’s a great price for anyone who already has Makita 18V batteries.
This model uses a brushed motor, which is a bit older than the brushless technology in newer tools. Also, it is just the tool, so you will need to buy batteries and a charger separately if you are new to the Makita brand.
Overall, our experts found the Makita XDT11Z is a fantastic, no-nonsense choice for professional use. It is a dependable tool that will get the job done day after day.
Who Should Buy?
This is for the working professional who needs a tough, powerful, and reliable impact driver that won’t fail. If you are already in the Makita 18V system, it’s an easy choice.
12. FLEX 24V Brushless Impact Driver Kit – Best Power System
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | FLEX |
| Model | FX1351-2A |
| Power Source | 24V Battery (Kit) |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Torque | 1,800 in-lbs |
| Included | Tool, (2) 2.5Ah Batteries, 160W Fast Charger |
Our expert team found the FLEX impact driver brings serious power to the job. This tool is part of a 24V system, giving it more juice and longer runtimes than many 20V competitors. It’s a high-end kit aimed at pros who need top performance.
The build quality is excellent, and it feels like a premium tool. Our experts were very impressed with the battery technology. The batteries have special cooling tech, and the included 160W charger powers them up incredibly fast. The best feature might be the limited lifetime warranty, which shows how much FLEX trusts their tools.
A major downside for this model is the lack of a speed selection button. You can only control the power with the trigger. This makes it less precise than other pro tools. Also, the reviews on the page are mixed with other, more powerful FLEX models, which can be confusing.
Overall, our experts found the FLEX 24V kit is a great choice for pros who want a powerful system with a great warranty.
Who Should Buy?
This is for the professional contractor who needs a powerful tool that charges fast and is backed by a lifetime warranty. It is a great alternative to more common pro brands.
How We Tested the Best Impact Drivers
To find the best impact drivers, our expert team put each tool through a series of real-world tests. We didn’t just look at the numbers on the box. We got our hands dirty to see how they really performed. Experts, including carpenters and mechanics, helped us with our testing process. We wanted to make sure our picks would work for both pros and home users.
We judged each impact driver on several key things. We looked at power, speed, how long the battery lasted, and how good it felt to use.
| Testing Criteria | How We Tested It |
|---|---|
| Power (Torque) | We drove 3-inch lag bolts into a thick piece of wood. We counted how many bolts each tool could drive on one battery charge. |
| Speed | We timed how fast each driver could sink a 3-inch deck screw fully into a 2×4 board. We did this multiple times and found the average time. |
| Battery Life | We repeatedly drove screws until the battery died. This showed us which tools could work the longest on a single charge. |
| Ergonomics & Feel | Our team used each tool for long periods. We rated them on weight, balance, grip comfort, and how easy they were to handle. |
| Special Features | We tested extra features like LED lights, speed controls, and special modes to see if they were actually useful. |
What to Look for in an Impact Driver
Buying an impact driver can be confusing. There are many brands and features to choose from. To help you, here are the most important things to think about before you buy.
| Key Factor | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Power (Torque) | Torque is the turning force of the driver. It’s measured in inch-pounds (in-lbs). More torque means you can drive bigger screws and loosen tougher bolts. A good range for most jobs is 1,400 to 1,800 in-lbs. |
| Motor Type (Brushed vs. Brushless) | Brushless motors are more modern and better. They are more powerful, run cooler, and give you longer battery life. Brushed motors are older technology and are usually found in cheaper tools. |
| Battery System (Voltage & Platform) | The battery is the heart of the tool. Higher voltage (like 24V vs 18V) can mean more power. Also, think about the brand’s battery “platform.” If you buy a DEWALT tool, you are buying into the DEWALT 20V battery system. |
| Ergonomics (Size & Weight) | You will be holding this tool a lot. A tool that is compact and lightweight will be much more comfortable to use, especially for long jobs or overhead work. Make sure it feels good in your hand. |
| Extra Features | Look for useful extras. A good LED light is a must for working in dark areas. Multiple speed settings give you more control for different tasks. Some tools have special modes for delicate work. |
Standout Features
Some of the best impact drivers have special features that make them even better. Here are a few cool things we saw during our tests.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Multi-Speed Settings | This lets you choose the right amount of power for the job. Use a low speed for small screws to avoid stripping them, and a high speed for maximum power. |
| Brushless Motor | This modern motor technology gives the tool more power, longer runtime, and a longer life with less maintenance. It’s a huge upgrade. |
| Halo Light | Found on the SKIL tool, this is a ring of light around the chuck. It lights up your entire work area perfectly and gets rid of all shadows. |
| Advanced Modes (like ASSIST) | Some tools, like the Kobalt XTR, have smart modes. The ASSIST mode helps you start screws straight and prevents them from breaking. |
| High-Voltage Systems (24V) | Brands like FLEX and Greenworks use 24V batteries. This gives their tools a power advantage over the more common 18V and 20V systems. |
Buying Guide
Choosing the right impact driver depends on what you need it for. A professional contractor has different needs than someone who does small projects on the weekend. This guide will help you decide.
Kit vs. Bare Tool
This is one of the first choices you will have to make.
| Purchase Type | Who It’s For |
|---|---|
| Full Kit (Tool, Battery, Charger) | This is best for beginners or anyone new to a brand. You get everything you need in one box. It’s usually a better deal than buying everything separately. |
| Bare Tool (Tool Only) | This is for people who already own other cordless tools from the same brand. You can save money by using the batteries and charger you already have. |
12V vs. 18V/20V/24V
The voltage of the battery system is a big deal.
| Voltage System | Best Use Case |
|---|---|
| 12V Systems | These tools are very small and lightweight. They are perfect for mechanics, electricians, or anyone working in tight spaces. They have less power but are much easier to handle. |
| 18V/20V/24V Systems | These are the standard for heavy-duty work. They have much more power and are built for construction and big projects. They are bigger and heavier than 12V tools. |
Why Trust Craftsing?
My name is Mithu, and I have spent years working with my hands, building, fixing, and creating. From woodworking shops to job sites, I have used nearly every power tool out there. At Craftsing, we don’t just read about tools; we use them. Our team spends hours researching and testing to give you real, honest advice you can trust. We are passionate about helping you find the right tool for your project, so you can build with confidence.
FAQs
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What’s the difference between an impact driver and a drill? | A drill is best for making holes. An impact driver is best for driving screws. It uses powerful, quick bursts of turning force (impacts) to drive screws with much more power and less effort than a drill. |
| Do I really need a brushless motor? | For most people, yes. A brushless motor gives you more power, about 25% longer battery life, and the tool will last longer. While brushed tools are cheaper, a brushless tool is a better investment for the long run. |
| Can I use an impact driver to remove car lug nuts? | Sometimes. A powerful 18V or 24V impact driver might be able to remove lug nuts that are not too tight. However, for serious car work, you should use an impact wrench, which is a different tool designed specifically for that job. |
Conclusion
Choosing the right impact driver can make your big projects feel much easier. For the best mix of power, control, and quality, we recommend the DEWALT 20V MAX XR. If you need something small and tough, the Milwaukee M18 Compact is perfect. And for an amazing deal that includes everything, the CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX Kit is a great starting point.
No matter which tool you choose from this list, you’ll be getting a great helper for your workshop. We hope this guide has helped you find the perfect impact driver for your needs. Happy building! Let us know in the comments which one is your favorite.