Best Impact Driver

Impact Driver Reviews

admin — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 03:05:26 +0000

Welcome to Best Impact Driver, where our goal is to provide quality impact driver reviews. We’ll tell you what you need to know in order to find the right cordless impact driver for the job. We’ll also tell you what others thought of the driver, what the key features are, and what we think of the product. Once you’ve decided, we’ll tell you where to buy at a really great price.

Milwaukee 2650-21 18-Volt Compact Impact Driver

admin — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 03:43:46 +0000

Our impact driver reviews give this cordless impact driver our Best Impact Driver rating. The Milwaukee 2650-21 18-Volt Compact Impact Driver offers these features:

Compact – weighs a mere 3.5 pounds and is 5-3/4 inches long, making it compact, yet extremely powerful. For individuals looking for the power of 18V, but need to work in a tight space, this cordless impact driver may be a good choice. Its compact size and good speed reduces fatigue and strain, making it one of the lightest drivers in its class.

1,400 In./Lbs. of Torque and 2,200 RPM – With advertised claims of up to two times longer run-time and 1,400 in./lbs of torque, the Milwaukee M18 1/4″ Hex Compact Impact Driver provides good durability and extended power, and features a variable speed trigger to accurately control the 0-2,200 RPM. Additionally, the driver features 0-3,200 IPM and a 4-Pole Frameless Motor, maximizing efficiency, run-time and torque.

Ease of use – A hex quick change allows easy bit changes, a variable speed trigger helps with control and a compact, lightweight 18V LITHIUM-ION battery helps minimize strain and fatigue.

Range of use – this impact driver has a variety of uses including fastening hex self-tapping sheet metal screws, 5/8″ and 3/4″ pipe couplings, outlet boxes, panel boxes, conduit clamps, pipe hangers, pipe clamps, switch plates and general fastening.

LITHIUM-ION Battery – Milwaukee launched its first Li-Ion System in 2005 and the first backward compatible Li-Ion in 2006. Advancing the formula in 2008, Milwaukee’s LITHIUM-ION batteries are lighter, smaller and store more power than “compact” NiCd batteries. They also feature a Fuel Gauge that lets you know when to recharge, reducing downtime. Many reviewers liked the ability to see how much juice was left in the driver before, during and after use. To combat on-site problems like bent/broken terminals, damaged clips and broken welds caused by use and abuse, Milwaukee LITHIUM-ION batteries are equipped with recessed terminals, slide pack dual clips and over-molded housing, and integrated welded frame and cell separators.

Other features include a belt clip that allows for easy portability and a built-in LED light which illuminates the work surface.

Milwaukee 2650-21 18-Volt Compact Impact Driver

Best Impact Driver Product Specifications
Model: 2650-21
Voltage: 18V
Anvil Type: ¼” Hex
Torque: 1400 in lbs
RPM: 0-2,200
IPM: 0-3,200
Battery: LITHIUM-ION
Length: 5-3/4″
Tool Weight: 3.2 lbs
Charger: 1-Hour Charger
Belt Clip: Included

What People Didn’t Like
While the impact driver reviews on this product are overwhelmingly positive, here’s an overview of some of the complaints people had:

Battery Incompatibility. The lone complaint for this tool was the fact that other 18V batteries from Milwaukee (for other tools like drills, etc.) won’t fit on this driver. The coupling will not support.

Our impact driver reviews give this cordless impact driver our Best Impact Driver rating. Many reviewers swear by the Milwaukee 2650-21 18-Volt Compact Impact Driver and use it for a variety of applications including drilling and driving screws. The battery gauge and length of battery usage also received high marks from many reviewers.

Makita BTD142HW 18-Volt Compact Lithium-Ion Cordless Impact Driver Kit

admin — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 20:16:24 +0000

The Makita BTD142HW 18V Compact Lithium-Ion Cordless Impact Driver offers these features:

Power – The Makita-built four-pole maximum torque motor that delivers 1,280 in.lbs. of torque, (2,300 RPM, and 3,200 impacts per minute) for a wide range of fastening tasks like fastening screws, tightening down lag bolts, drilling holes, and more. It is ideal for HVAC, electricians, plumbers, automotive mechanics, woodworkers, remodelers, and any pro contractor who requires a best-in-class engineered compact cordless impact driver.

Ergonomic Design in a Compact Size – The BTD142HW weighs just 2.8 pounds with a more compact design at 5-3/4 inches long and an ergonomic shape for reduced operator fatigue.

Lithium-Ion Technology – Makita’s 18V Lithium-Ion batteries and ENERGY STAR rated Optimum Charging System provide several benefits over old battery technology. When compared to traditional 18V Ni-Cd batteries, Makita’s 18V Lithium-Ion batteries have up to 40% less weight, longer run time, and five-times lower self-discharge to keep cells active and ready to use at any time. Makita’s 18V Lithium-Ion battery delivers 2,000 cycles–2.5X more than Ni-Cd. In addition, built-in shock absorbing features help protect the battery, and 16 firm-holding contact terminals deliver constant high power. During the charging process, a built-in memory chip in the battery communicates with the Optimum Charger for a more efficient charge, extending the battery life.

Automobile rapid charger included – Makita also offers a Rapid Automotive Charger for 18V LXT and 18V compact lithium-ion batteries that plugs into 12V DC sockets equipped in most automobiles and trucks for added mobility.

Other features include a built-in L.E.D. light and easy one-touch bit insertion. Two compact Lithium-Ion batteries 194309-1, 15-minute Rapid Charger DC18RA, and Tool case 824774-7 are included with this item.

Makita BTD142HW 18-Volt Compact Lithium-Ion Cordless Impact Driver Kit

Best Impact Driver Product Specifications
Hex shank 1/4″
No-load speed 0-2,300 RPM
Impacts per minute 0-3,200 IPM
Maximum torque 1,280 in.lbs.
Battery 18V compact lithium-ion
Overall length 5-3/4″
Net weight 2.8 lbs. (w/battery)

What People Didn’t Like
Most of the impact driver reviews were very happy with the performance of this product but here are a few of the negative comments:

No Belt Clip – More of an annoyance than anything but if you plan on carrying this cordless impact driver around with you, you’ll have to buy a belt clip – it doesn’t come with one.

Gimmicky design – A few reviewers felt that the impact driver looked like a G.I. Joe toy and didn’t care for the “cheap plastic look”.

Battery life not great – most reviewers liked the quick charge time and the included automotive rapid charger but there were a few reviews that indicated that the battery life wasn’t as good as advertised.

The Makita BTD142HW 18-Volt Compact Lithium-Ion Cordless Impact Driver Kit comes with two batteries, a tool case, and the automotive Rapid Charger. Makita is known for making quality tools so we think you will be pleased with this product.

Hitachi WH14DL 14.4-Volt Lithium Ion Cordless Impact Driver

admin — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 06:13:48 +0000

The Hitachi WH14DL 14.4-Volt Lithium Ion Cordless Impact Driver offers these features:

Powered by Lithium Ion batteries – for a steady level of power throughout the charge, with up to 3x longer battery life and up to 50% lighter weight. Hitachi’s HXP lithium ion batteries are uniquely backwards compatible, meaning they will also work in 14.4-Volt DMR and DVF3 cordless tools for even more flexibility and value across the cordless line.

Unique two-step speed switch – located on the side of the handle, this switch gives the user the ability to select Power Mode (0-2,600 RPM), for full speed applications or Save Mode (0-2,000 RPM), for more control and less power when the application requires. At the center of Hitachi’s new Lithium Ion cordless impact driver is the industrial-grade, 2-piece motor with heavy gauge copper coils that offers 1240 in/lbs of torque.

Compact in length – at only 6.3-Inch and lightweight at 3.3-Pound, the Lithium Ion 14.4-Volt Impact from Hitachi feels like a 9.6-Volt tool, while offering the power and performance of a 14.4-Volt.

Hitachi’s Cool Flow system – this provides a steady stream of air to the motor, allowing the impact driver to run harder and longer, minimizing the risk of burnout.

Other features include an externally accessible carbon brush for quick and easy maintenance, replaceable armature, 2-piece magnet motor and a 5-position belt hook with integrated LED job light.

Hitachi WH14DL 14.4-Volt Lithium Ion Cordless Impact Driver

Best Impact Driver Product Specifications
Part Number: WH14DL
Max Torque 1,240 in/lbs
Drive 1/4″ Hex
No-Load Speed 0-2,600 RPM
Impact Rate 0-3,200 BPM
Belt Hook Yes
LED Light Yes
Battery Type Lithium Ion
Battery Life Cycles 1,500
Overall Length 6.3 in
Weight 3.3 lbs
Capacity: Small Screw 5/32″ – 3/8″
Capacity: Bolt 1/4″ – 9/16″
Capacity: High Strength Bolt 1/4″ – 15/32″

What People Didn’t Like
All of the impact driver reviews for the Hitachi WH14DL 14.4-Volt Lithium Ion Cordless Impact Driver are positive with a few comments about the following features:

LED Light. Some reviewers noted that the placement of the LED light was unusual which is at the bottom of the driver, as part of the belt hook. The light also requires a battery which other impact drivers don’t require. The light does project a 4-inch circle which is a larger illumination area than others.

Color and Design. A few people felt the tool looked like a toy with the black and green stripes.

Battery Size. Even though the impact driver does only weigh 3.3 lbs., some reviewers noted that the battery size, compared to other compact impact drivers, is rather large.

The Hitachi WH14DL 14.4-Volt Lithium Ion Cordless Impact Driver rates very highly and most reviewers gave high marks for the performance, the variable speed setting and the weight of the tool.

DEWALT DCF815S2 12-Volt Max 1/4-Inch Impact Driver

admin — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 02:40:01 +0000

The DEWALT 12-Volt Max 1/4-Inch Impact Driver offers convenient features, like shadow-free LED lighting, one-handed loading, and a belt clip. The 1/4-inch chuck accepts bits up to 1 inch. At 6-1/4 inches long and 2.3 pounds, the driver is easy to maneuver in small spaces. The cordless impact driver comes with two lithium-ion battery packs, each offering 1.1 Ah, and includes multiple torque settings, variable speeds, and a reverse option.At 6-1/4 inches long, the DEWALT driver is designed to fit into small spaces where traditional impact drivers don’t, and provides 3,400 impacts per minute. As a result, you get straight penetration and avoid damaging bits from angled driving attempts. The length of the DEWALT means you can apply maximum leverage, enabling you to get the most from this impact driver’s 950 inch-pounds of torque.

Additionally, the DEWALT’s three LEDs–mounted radially around the barrel–will light your target area for better visibility.

With its 2.3 pounds distributed evenly between its ergonomic body and compact battery pack, the DEWALT is easy to lift and handle. The 1/4-inch chuck can be loaded with one hand, and takes bits up to 1 inch. The DEWALT features a built-in belt clip and reverse option for additional ease of use.

This cordless impact driver comes with two 12-volt max lithium-ion battery packs, each with 1.1 Ah. The recharge time of these battery packs is between 30 minutes and 1 hour.

DEWALT DCF815S2 12-Volt Max 1/4-Inch Impact Driver

Best Impact Driver Product Specifications
Voltage: 12V MAX
Drive Size: 1/4in
No Load Speed: 0-2,450rpm
Impacts/Min: 0-3,400ipm
Max Torque: 950in-lbs
Max Torque: 79ft-lbs
Tool Weight: 2.3lbs
Tool Length: 6-1/4″

What People Didn’t Like
There were only a few negative impact driver reviews about this cordless impact driver:

No battery level indicator. Unlike other cordless impact drivers, this one does not come with a gauge to tell you how much battery power is left. This may be offset by the fact that the driver comes with 2 Li-Ion batteries standard so you can always have one charging.

The travel bag isn’t equipped with extra pockets to stow extra bits, cords, battery chargers, etc.

Impact driver reviews were very positive for the DEWALT 12-Volt Max 1/4-Inch Impact Driver and for the money, it comes with a lot of nice features like a belt clip, reverse option, LED lighting and an extra battery.

Bosch PS40-2A 12-Volt Max Lithium-Ion Impact Driver

admin — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 04:44:11 +0000

The Bosch PS40-2A 12-Volt Max Lithium-Ion Impact Driveroffers these features:Compact and Lightweight – most reviewers agree that the design of this cordless impact driver is its strong suit. Weighing in at just 2.2 pounds and measuring 6.5 inches in length, its compact profile does not mean it is light on power.

Reviewers were really impressed with how much this smaller driver can do. From driving and tightening nuts and bolts, screwing and drilling wood, to executing a complete range of automotive jobs, completing interior and exterior steel framing jobs, and much more.

800 In./Lbs. of Torque and 1,800 RPM – Bosch’s unique hammer-and-anvil system delivers 800 in./lbs. torque which is a lot of power for such a small driver. And with 1,800 RPM/3,000 BPM, you’ll get the job done quickly and without a lot of wrist fatigue.

Two 12-Volt Litheon™ Batteries – The Bosch PS40-2A is powered by Litheon™ batteries, which is Bosch’s version of Lithium-Ion, and they claim to be the “most advanced lithium-ion batteries available today”. Lithium-ion batteries allow more battery charges, have longer run times and can be fully charged in 30 minutes.

LED Light Ring – three LED lights provide good visibility in tight spaces.

Other features include an ergonomic soft grip handle, rubber bumpers on the side of the tool, a ¼” hex drive with quick release and a variable speed trigger for added control.

Bosch PS40-2A 12-Volt Max Lithium-Ion Impact Driver

Best Impact Driver Product Specifications
Part Number: 2611-7689
Power Source: cordless-electric
Voltage: 12
Item Package Quantity: 1
Batteries Included?: Yes
Batteries Required?: Yes
Battery Cell Type: Lithium Ion
Item Dimensions
Weight: 2.2 Pounds
Length: 6.5 in

What People Didn’t Like
The majority of the impact driver reviews for the Bosch PS40-2A are extremely positive. Here’s an overview of some of the complaints people had:

Slow. Some reviewers complained that driving a 3” screw took too long and as a result, their job took a bit longer than expected. For pro’s looking to knock out a big job quickly, we recommend you step up to a more powerful tool. The PS40-2A is a nice utility driver and not meant to do all the heavy lifting.

Noisy. Most reviewers did comment about how much noise this impact driver made.

Lack of Power. Again, most reviewers were impressed with the amount of power this little driver put out but there were a few negative reviews on this topic. For DIY folks, this product packs more than enough punch. It’s likely that the lack of power comments came from seasoned professionals who are used to working with 14.4V or 18V impact drivers.

For the money, the Bosch PS40-2A 12-Volt Max Lithium-Ion Impact Driver puts out impressive performance. It also gets kudos for a great design and fit, it carries the Bosch brand (which means quality), and has some nice added features. We think it would make a nice all-purpose addition to your tool set.

Ingersoll Rand W150-KL2 IQV 14.4-Volt 3/8-Inch Li-Ion Impact Driver Kit

admin — Sat, 08 Jan 2011 20:27:16 +0000

The Ingersoll Rand W150-KL2 IQV 14.4-Volt 3/8-Inch Li-Ion Impact Driver Kit offers these features:

Battery compatibility - Compatible with both Lithium-Ion and Nickel Cadmium 14.4V IQV batteries makes this a versatile cordless impact driver. Especially helpful if you are updating your tool set and have an old tool with NiCad batteries that can be used.

Quality brand and craftsmanship – Known for their brand and quality – (from the manufacturer) Ingersoll Rand’s full line of IQv Series™ Cordless Impactools is built upon more than 100 years of tool building heritage and engineering expertise. From 7.2V to 19.2V we have specifically designed our tools to deliver world class Power and Durability, with a Commitment to increasing your productivity in very demanding Automotive, Industrial, Production and Maintenance environments. The W150-KL2 comes with an engineered composite housing with patent pending metal subframe for unbreakable strength

Lightweight – Less than 4.7lbs with the Lithium-Ion battery attached. Useful when you are up on a ladder for extended periods or have to reach into a tight space.

Power – 0-2200 RPM, 0-3000 IPM and 150 ft-lbs max reverse torque

Accessories – This kit comes with 2 batteries, an all-metal hammer case and a universal charger.

Other – The W150 is ideal for general automotive and service work such as suspensions, front-ends, brakes, engines, and autobody jobs.

Ingersoll Rand W150-KL2 IQV 14.4-Volt 3/8-Inch Li-Ion Impact Driver Kit

Best Impact Driver Product Specifications
Part Number: W150-KL2
Power Source: cordless-electric
Voltage: 14.4
Item Package Quantity: 1
Batteries Included?: Yes (2)
Universal charger included
Batteries Required?: Yes
Battery Cell Type: Lithium Ion
150 ft-lbs max reverse torque
Less than 4.7 lbs with lithium ion battery
0-2200 RPM, 0-3000 IPM
Engineered composite housing and all-metal hammer case

What people didn’t like
We could not find any negative impact driver reviews for the Ingersoll Rand W150-KL2 IQV 14.4-Volt 3/8-Inch Li-Ion Impact Driver Kit.

The Ingersoll Rand W150-KL2 IQV 14.4-Volt 3/8-Inch Li-Ion Impact Driver Kit is on the expensive side but due to the company’s reputation for making great products and the overwhelmingly positive feedback for this tool kit, our impact driver reviews give this cordless impact driver our Best Impact Driver rating.