TL;DR
Milwaukee M18 Fuel
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel series is frequently mentioned as a top choice for cordless impact drivers due to its power and durability. Many users appreciate its strength, particularly in challenging environments like the rust belt [3:2]. However, some users have reported issues with battery longevity and tool vibration
[4:4]. Despite these concerns, the M18 Fuel remains a popular choice, especially for those who prioritize power
[1].
DeWalt DCK240C2
The DeWalt DCK240C2 is praised for its performance and value, making it a recommended option for many users [2:2]. While DeWalt tools are generally considered reliable, some users have experienced issues with vibrations and trigger problems
[4:4]. Nevertheless, DeWalt's reputation for producing quality tools makes it a strong contender.
Makita XDT16
Makita's XDT16 model is noted for being slightly less powerful than Milwaukee but offers more refinement and reliability [4:1]. Users who prefer precision and a smoother operation may find Makita to be a better fit. The brand is also known for its durable battery life and consistent performance over time
[4:2].
Battery Platform Compatibility
When choosing an impact driver, it's important to consider the battery platform you already own or plan to adopt. This can influence your decision significantly, as having compatible batteries across multiple tools can save costs and improve convenience [2:3]. Brands like Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Makita offer extensive ecosystems of tools that share the same battery platforms.
Warranty and Support
Warranty and customer support are crucial factors to consider. Milwaukee is often highlighted for its robust warranty service, which can be a deciding factor for professionals who rely heavily on their tools [5:1]. It's worth investigating the warranty terms and customer service experiences for each brand before making a purchase.
Additional Considerations
Other brands like Ridgid, Bosch, and Ingersoll Rand also receive positive mentions. Ridgid is appreciated for its excellent warranty on battery replacements [1:1], while Ingersoll Rand is favored for its dust protection features
[5:6]. Ultimately, the best impact driver depends on your specific needs, such as the type of work you'll be doing, your budget, and personal preferences regarding tool feel and performance.
What is the Best Cordless Impact Driver?
Quick Answer:
The Milwaukee M18 fuel 2953 is the best overall impact driver, but depending on the specific needs and work requirements, any of the tested tools can be a great fit for different applications.
TLDR
People are disappointed that the Hercules impact driver wasn't included, and there are mixed opinions on the best impact driver, with some favoring Milwaukee, Makita, and Metabo HPT.
In this Reddit Reviewed Post, we dive deep into the world of the best impact drivers, exploring the top models that professionals trust for their power, performance, and durability.
We've tested and compared models from leading brands, including Milwaukee, Flex, DeWalt, Ridgid, Ryobi, Skil, Bosch, Hilti, Craftsman, Kobalt, Makita, and Metabo HPT.
We'll show you how we run all of our tests including the torque, speed, and specification tests, and then we'll share all of the data we've compiled into animated charts, that are packed with info that will help you decide which model is best for you!
- An impact driver is a powerful cordless tool that delivers high torque for driving screws and bolts. It's useful for driving lag bolts into wood, assembling furniture, and any application requiring a lot of rotational force. The rapid impact mechanism makes it easy to drive long screws or bolts without stripping.
- Key features to look for are brushless motor technology for efficiency and power, variable speed settings and torque control for precision, lightweight and compact design, sufficient battery voltage (18V or 20V recommended), 1/4" hex chuck for quick bit changes, LED light for visibility, and additional features like belt clips or battery fuel gauges.
- Leading brands known for high-performing impact drivers include Milwaukee, DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, and Ridgid. These companies offer models in different price ranges with similar core features.
- Look for models with at least 1,400 in-lbs of torque for driving large fasteners and lag bolts. Around 1,500 to 1,800 in-lbs is ideal for most DIYers and home improvement projects. Professional contractors may opt for over 2,000 in-lbs of peak torque.
- Battery life depends on the battery voltage and amp hour (Ah) rating. Models with higher voltage batteries (18V to 20V max) and higher Ah (4.0 Ah to 6.0+ Ah) will deliver longer runtime. Most DIY tasks can be completed with 1 or 2 fully charged 4.0Ah batteries.
- Yes, the purpose-built impact mechanism makes driving long screws and bolts much easier and reduces wrist fatigue. Impact drivers also lower the risk of damaging hardware or stripping screw heads. For anyone routinely driving large fasteners, an impact driver is worth the investment over just using a standard drill.
The Milwaukee M18 fuel 2953 is the best overall impact driver, but depending on the specific needs and work requirements, any of the tested tools can be a great fit for different applications.
This article Best Cordless Impact Driver Reddit Reviewed is a summary of a YouTube video "Best Cordless Impact Driver? Milwaukee, DeWalt, Makita, Flex, Ryobi" by Pro Tool Reviews: https://youtu.be/fsjfJjyDVdg?si=zMHaRcJQxB7SRkPc
Thanks for the insight :)
I'm a big fan of all Ridgid tools, mostly for their warranty and them being the sister company of Milwaukee. Their warranty on battery raplacements is unmatched. I've only ever had to replace one battery, but the process was smooth and only took a week to have a new battery at my doorstep from the time I requested a replacement.
This is the exact impact driver i've been using for around the house: Link to buy on Amazon (1/4")
If you're looking for something more resilient, go with the 3/8" one: Link to buy on Amazon (3/8")
Not only is the 3/8" driver cheaper right now, but Milwaukee discontinued it becuase it was outperforming their impact drivers. Might pick one up myself while it's still priced this low.
I have the ryobi impact driver and it can barely drive a 3” drywall screw into adjacent 2x4’s.
100% this Dewalt DCK240C2. It's fantastic and has great performance. Worth every penny.
The Milwaukee M18 fuel is probably the strongest impact there is.
mine burnt out after 2 wood screws 🌝, never buying Milwaukee again
I don't have experience with Milwaukee, but I'm reading similar things about every brand. I would look at what batterynplatform you already have or the battery-platform you want to adopt.
I'm on Makita for the more quality/accurate stuff (e.g.tracksaws, etc) and Parkside performance for stuff that's is good in most budget brands (like screwdrivers), because that brand is cheaper than Ryobi for example in Europe with similar quality.
The more interesting question is whether it’s still possible to buy a bad impact driver.
Hyper tough, hart. Any no name Chinese brand
Makita XDT16 and Milwaukee M18 Fuel are the ones you should look at. Just pick your color :)
The FLEX quick eject impact driver. It only hits harder than the M18 under certain conditions, but the quick eject button is what matters. Nothing else has got it, sadly.
Professional techs, what are the best cordless impacts that are powerful and last a long time. Been using matco 1/2 and 3/8 for years but the 3/8 is always an issue. Typically when working under cars and debris falls down. Have had 3 where dust/rust or whatever seems to go into the trigger. I also use the 3/8 regular and extended reach ratchets which are ok but get pretty noisy and the matco grease gun for those barely puts in any grease. Now to boot my matco tool guy never comes by. And the last 2 times he's had my 3/8 impact it's been 3 or more months to get it back. Snap on seems nice but I had issues with the 1/2 inch years ago and switched to matco, that and they are very pricey. 2k for the 1/2 and 3/8 impact plus the 2, 3/8 ratchets I like the warranty on milwaulkee but I hear they aren't that powerful.
Our shop supplies Milwaukee cordless and I use it frequently, but we have issues with batteries, they like to destroy themselves on the impacts, M12 and M18 platform. They are powerful enough for sure, rust belt heaven here, everything is seized and acetylene is a must. Milwaukee has been not so great on warranty within the manufacturers window, tools or batteries for that matter and prices keep sky rocketing on both. I’m sure my boss will keep buying Milwaukee as we beat the crap out of them and they “usually” keep going. There have been quite a few issues but oh well.
I have chosen to buy and go the Snap-on route for 14.4v tools and 18v impacts. and haven’t been let down or unimpressed yet, except for their 14.4v drill. I think that’s best off for another brand. I buy secondhand on eBay BNIB with a serial number that’s within the current year so, with my Snappy guy when it breaks it’s usually still under warranty if it hasn’t been to long, if so it’s a $140 flare rate rebuild. I just bought this CT9038 for $350 BNIB sealed with 2 batteries. Couldn’t beat it.
I have now the CT9050, CT9038,CT861, and all the cordless ratchets. Too notch stuff.
buy cheap.. when it breaks.. toss it in the bottom drawer or the round file..
these 2 are on clearance.
here is a 3/8. https://www.harborfreight.com/automotive/impact-wrenches/air-impact-wrenches/38-in-composite-air-impact-wrench-twin-hammer-450-ft-lbs-63061.html.
I have very good air tools, snap on and ingersoll rand. But I move around a lot and do all the major work in the shop. So looking more for cordless. Probably wouldn't be asking if I had a decent matco rep. But tired of giving rebrand trucks any money and snap on is just so dang expensive.
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Is it established that Milwaukee has the best impact drivers?
Will be used installing flat roofs mostly, fastening 1”-9” screws through insulation/plywood, installing metal flashings etc. that’s 90% what it will be used for and potentially carpentry later next year.
Am also curious about which gen Milwaukee impact driver is recommended. thanks!
Nothing is or has been established about the best. All of the top brands sell really good drivers. Makita generally has less power, and by less it's 1-2%, but is more refined, Bosch and Metabo as well, Milwaukee and Flex generally have more power but lack in refinement, DeWalt just is a good tool. We used Makita brushed impactors for years doing general construction, and the brushless are even better. My first gen lxt, 2005 ish, had no issues with timberlocks, my xdt16 is far better. You will hear people tell their stories about whatever brand they prefer, and how awesome they are, but its all anecdotal.
I still use my old xdt04 from the mid 2000's all the time. That is my favorite impact driver of all time. There are better Makita impacts, but none that have served me as well as that one.
Dewalt, Milwaukee, Makita, Bosch are all top brands
For just the impact driver check out YouTube Project Farm
… but you should really buy into a battery line, not a single tool.
I’ve had Skil then Craftsman, and now Ridgid
Dewalt has least amount of vibration by far, but basically every single one i used was fcked up and didnt work properly(usually trigger problem)
Milwaukee is quite powerful but vibrates a lot(not a problem if youre not using it 8hr/day)
Bosch still doesnt have a decent competitor
Makita is nice and fairly reliable but bit less powerful compared to first 2
Milwaukee is the most powerful, but power does not equal best.
Ok so maybe refined question,. Who has the best battery line? In terms of durability, longevity, power, ease of use etc
Professional techs, what are the best cordless impacts that are powerful and last a long time. Been using matco 1/2 and 3/8 for years but the 3/8 is always an issue. Typically when working under cars and debris falls down. Have had 3 where dust/rust or whatever seems to go into the trigger. I also use the 3/8 regular and extended reach ratchets which are ok but get pretty noisy and the matco grease gun for those barely puts in any grease. Now to boot my matco tool guy never comes by. And the last 2 times he's had my 3/8 impact it's been 3 or more months to get it back. Snap on seems nice but I had issues with the 1/2 inch years ago and switched to matco, that and they are very pricey. 2k for the 1/2 and 3/8 impact plus the 2, 3/8 ratchets I like the warranty on milwaulkee but I hear they aren't that powerful.
Snap on seems to be twice the price, less power and less warranty than the milwaukee, plus you can even get the milwaukee off the snap on truck......seems like a no brainer to me.
I have always surprised with my m18 impacts as to what they will bust loose, and mine are all a few generations old......the newer ones have significantly more power,
I have batteries as old as 2014 still working, although the newer ones i have in the mix offer more power to the tool.
And have not had issues with mud/rust in the trigger.
Are you working on snowplows or something?
Maybe you need some sort of bag over the trigger on the worst jobs.
Remember. Engage safety squints, double rubbers and mother on speed dial.
I've been heavily leaning milwaukee due to the warranty. And that's the thing I'm working on cars and trucks. Nothing crazy, and I take care of my tools. I wipe them down daily, don't drop them. It's frustrating because these matco guns were around 1500 for the impacts and 800 is for both ratchets.
If I was getting back into Automotive service tomorrow I'm buying the Milwaukee M12 FUEL 1/2 impact wrench with 500ftlb breakaway. its small and compact for tight spaces.
I heavier duty cheaper impact wrench is the Skil 1/2in MID torque. Kit is available on amazon for like $150. that things a beast for the price.
Buy dewalt
I'm actually looking at them, how is the 3/8 impact? Says 400ft lbs breakaway, my current is 600lbs. Could just be advertising. How about the ratchets? I want to go with one brand. I'll sell all the matco stuff.
I love my Ingersoll Rand W5132. You can get nice dust boots for them too.
I need an impact driver for my work but there's so many with identical specs at different prices.
To me, this like probably one of the best. It's powerful and compact.
I've went for other dewalt tools so I want to stick to that make for batteries etc.
I have one, it's a monster. Setting one is nice and gentle, setting three will zip off lug nuts.
The dcf850 is great. Fits in narrow places and can drive big timber screws, but also has "ikea mode". I only even have the bigger dcf860 because of that screaming $99 with 2 batteries thing at lowes last week. My 850 was getting by just fine. Wasn't a need... the 850 does everything I need.
You might prefer the dcf870 though if it is in your price range. It's made to be super quiet with the same dimensions as the 850.
I use my impact for basically everything walls, flooring etc what’s the best one that will last a decent amount of time(I have Milwaukee and dewalt batteries)
I’ve been using both brands for years. Same thing, different color 🤷
Ok thanks
I’ve always had dewalt, but I think the tests say makita and ryobi were the best overall. Personally, I buy everything dewalt because I don’t like multiple batteries/chargers.
I've used Dewalt and don't feel that there's much difference between Dewalt and Milwaukee, except for the one big thing that made me choose Milwaukee completely- The warranty. Milwaukee's warranty is 5 years for the tool and 3 for the battery, which is far better than any of the other brands. The second best warranty out there is 3 years/tool and 1 year/battery. I've also never had an issue with Milwaukee being a pain about warranting something, and they usually replace large chunks of the tool with brand new. 5 years is a long time, plenty to feel like I've gotten every dime out of the tool, and by 5 or 6 years it's about time to buy new anyway as the technology gets better.
I watched a few videos doing comparisons and that was pretty much the consensus. The differences were just very slight between the makita , deWalt and Milwaukee
I've had the Milwaukee Impact Driver as a staple in my toolbox for quite some time now, and it's one of those investments for which I pat myself on the back.
Can’t speak to Milwaukee but I’ve used a deWalt for years . I can tell you the deWalt is damn near indestructible and Its never failed me even driving large lag bolts for attic stair installs (and I’ve dropped it from a few ladders) . I’ve only been in carpentry about three years so I’d be interested to see what the more experienced guys have to say .
Very similar to mine. Had it about a year n half dropped off a few roofs but can’t tell if it’s any good
"Had it about a year n half dropped off a few roofs"
I think you answered your own question
Milwaukee Surge
I've used a Milwaukee and Dewalt and think they're both great. My Milwaukee driver is great for the price and can handle most projects easily. The Dewalt I have is a bit pricier, but I've found it able to handle absolutely everything.
Looking to pick up a 1/2 cordless to add to my toolset. Wanted to ask around to see what other people are running on a budget.
​
Not a pro mechanic, tried the usual chicago electric stuff and it was junk. have milwaukees at work but they are pretty pricey. anything inbetween that you guys would recommend?
I use the Milwaukee M12 Fuel 3/8th inch. It's great. I still need a breaker bar for some things, but I actually appreciate the light weight when you're working for a long time. But if you're doing a lot of stuck/rusty/high torque bolts (>100 ft-lbs regularly), the M18 Fuel should be really good too.
You can't beat the Horror Freight if you're on a budget.
I've got one and I've been very happy with it. Had to do a main crank pulley bolt on my truck with it last year and I'm currently doing a clutch swap and it is getting a good amount of use.
I would recommend the Milwaukee actually, it's a pretty amazing unit, and the 5 year warranty is top notch.
There is almost always a sale going on for them somewhere at sometime, especially Coupons through Home Depot.
DeWalt 20Vmax XR. I don't even use my pneumatic impact anymore.
Agreed. Used mine for several years now with no issues. Thing is a champ.
Yes, this the correct answer.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel. If that bitch doesn't get it off, it ain't coming off.
Yes. I love my ½ full size and ⅜ compact milwaukee impacts.
I might catch some flak for this but I don't give a fuck. The Harbor Freight Earthquake XT is my go-to. Strong as fuck
I had one in the bottom of my cart getting beat up by two 4 ft pry bars for months. I wasn't impressed by torque but I'm very impressed by how well the battery and tool casing was made.
I have the 3/8 mid torque, going on 2 years now without issue.
If someone is in a pinch I'll loan the 5 year old, normal? Torque 3/8 Milwaukee that has a worn anvil. Most of the guys in the shop have now converted to red tools from truck brand tools!
If I had a need for a cordless 1/2 it would be Milwaukee but my air powered nitrocat 1250k is doing great (2 self reseals later, can hardly make out the nitrocat lettering).
I've got an M18 for more mobility. But in my garage I use a shitty husky 1/2 air impact. And I call it shitty, but it has taken out a few crank bolts.
Haven't needed anything better than those two........yet.
Milwaukee it is. Thank you all! Btw most of the shit I own are air tools, wanted something cordless but I was not willing to pay over $1000 for a snap-on one.
If you wanna get on the tool truck for it mac tools impacts are interchangeable with dewalt batteries and vice versa, dewalt is just as good as Milwaukee right now, I say that as an m18 fanboy
Go watch the impact channel on YT (you'll find it, it's popular, seach something like "best impact mod"). They mod impacts and test them. They swapped a Milwaukee impact hammer head into an impact driver body and the results are spectacular. Iirc it was a 3/8" and outperformed the 1/2" stock impact.
The latest Milwaukee 1/2" has had a ton of issues. A lot of companies are switching away from Milwaukee due to those issues. There's a YouTube video out there about someone breaking 5 brand new Milwaukee impacts straight from the store on lug nuts.
I LOVE Milwaukee. I've even got a couple of their socket sets.
I honestly haven't had any trouble, and I can't recommend them enough. I've also got the battery heat gun, Dremel equivalent, 18v shop vac, and weedeater. All great tools!
Don't get me wrong, the Ingersoll 2235 is a great gun. For cordless tho this is my go-to grab. Has never failed me in the 5 years I've owned it and worked on rusty GMs with it. Takes stuff off that my Crap-On cordless can't get off.
Try out the new DeWalt dcf900 with a 5ah high output battery. It puts out a whopping 950ft/lbs tightening force and blows the Milwaukee high torques out of the water.
Buddy of mine does work on tenants houses so he is using his impact driver all day every day. His old one just took a shit on him. What’s the best one for him?
Both are great options 860 is the torque monster, perfect for driving long screws 870 is a hydraulic impact so perfect for indoors as it's more quieter, not as powerful as the 860 but still plenty of power
https://www.lowes.com/pd/DEWALT-20V-MAX-5-0AH-2-Pk-W-Charger/5014688329
He can grab the $300 battery kit from Lowe's brick and mortar stores.
This need to be done in Lowes store only.
Good luck.
Look at the dcf801
It’s lite and does everything I asked it to do everyday all day. Great for ceiling fans and overhead work. Yes, I have an 860 in the truck for big stuff but for 95% of what I do (full time handy man) the 12v is great.
Save your (his) body from wear and tear. Get the lite one!
Oh and it’s $99 with 2 batteries and charger at Lowe’s right now.
If I were getting a new one it would be the 870. Super compact and quiet.
I have the 870 and it’s ridiculously quiet and powerful. 10/10 would recommend
Yeah, I can’t think of a time I’ve ever needed more power than what it can deliver, and the quietness and compactness is too good to ignore.
How does it compare to the 850?
Get him the dcf 870.
HD has the battery kit for $199 plus a free tool, the dcf 860 is one of the free tool offer. Buy the battery kit and dcf 860, return the battery kit and get the bare dcf 860 for $106 plus taxes.
The best of the best is the DCF860. It will drive three 10" screws in the time the next best impact in DeWalt's line will drive one. It also is one of the best performing impact drivers from any brand. I don't think even Milwaukee has anything out on par with it yet.
The most compact driver is the DCF850. It's about an inch shorter than the DCF860. When it was released, it was the stubbiest impact you could buy.
A special impact driver is the hydraulic DCF870. It's the quietest and it's almost as compact as the 850. Use this one if you don't like the noise impact drivers make.
Finally, the best value is the DCF840. It is cheap, yet powerful enough to get most jobs done. It doesn't have any bells and whistles like a selector switch though, so throttle has to be managed by the trigger.
I have the 850 and originally wanted an 860. But the 850 is way more than enough for the lighter duty stuff I do.
Yeah, unless you're routinely firing 6"+ lag bolts all day, the 860 is likely overkill.
Great breakdown! Can only speak for 860. It’s a beast when you need it to be.
best cordless impact driver
Key Considerations for Choosing a Cordless Impact Driver:
Torque and Power: Look for an impact driver with high torque ratings (measured in inch-pounds). A good range is between 1,500 to 2,500 inch-pounds for most tasks.
Battery Voltage: Higher voltage (18V or 20V) typically means more power and longer runtime. Ensure the battery is compatible with other tools if you have a tool system.
Speed Settings: Multiple speed and torque settings allow for better control over different applications, from driving screws to loosening stubborn bolts.
Weight and Ergonomics: A lightweight design (around 3-4 lbs) with a comfortable grip reduces fatigue during prolonged use.
Chuck Size: Most impact drivers use a 1/4-inch hex chuck for quick bit changes. Ensure it fits the bits you plan to use.
Brand and Warranty: Consider reputable brands known for durability and performance, and check for warranty options for peace of mind.
Recommendations:
DeWalt DCF887B: This model offers 1,825 inch-pounds of torque, three speed settings, and a compact design, making it versatile for various tasks. It's well-regarded for its durability and performance.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2853-20: Known for its high torque (up to 2,000 inch-pounds) and brushless motor, this impact driver provides excellent battery life and efficiency. It's a great choice for heavy-duty applications.
Makita XDT16Z: This model features a compact design, 1,600 inch-pounds of torque, and a built-in LED light, making it ideal for tight spaces and low-light conditions.
Choosing the right impact driver depends on your specific needs, but these options are highly rated and offer a good balance of power, performance, and ergonomics.
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