Best Impact Drills of 2021: Complete Reviews

The best impact drill can give you the best of both worlds by combining the conveniences of a regular power drill and an impact driver in one.

If you’re searching for one of the most versatile tools that can help you to work with masonry, ceramics, wood for boats, metal, and glass, it’s an ideal item to have.

You’ll find the following cordless models can help you to breeze through heavy-duty projects and at-home DIYs far faster than ever before.

Best Impact Drill Reviews

1. DEWALT 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit

The DEWALT 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit is a user-friendly solution with plenty of great features that will have you reaching for this tool for any project.

With an ergonomic design and a reliable build for light and heavy-duty projects alike, you’ll find there is a minimal learning curve for first-time users.

Product Highlights

The DEWALT 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit is one of the most lightweight tools you’ll use, as it weighs less than three pounds and is only five and a half inches front to back, making it exceptionally simple to fit into tight spaces.

With the added convenience of one-handed bit loading, you will easily be able to insert your one-inch bits into the 1/4” hex chuck.

You’ll also appreciate the built-in LED light that has a 20-second delay before turning off once you release the trigger.

The no-load speed of this device is from 0 to 2800, making it an optimal choice for professionals and casual users alike, with 20 volts to use for each workload.

As an added advantage, your kit will arrive with the impact driver, a 20V MAX battery, as well as the fast charger, so you can quickly charge the tool and get back to using its 1400 in-lbs torque.

What to Like About It 

For such a lightweight tool, you’ll be surprised at the sheer amount of torque it produces, allowing you to make a multitude of revolutions in a matter of seconds.

You’ll also love how easily the DEWALT 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit deals with stuck nuts, so you won’t ever have to worry about loosening anything with a wrench.

The fast charging feature is quite impressive as well, as a completely dead battery will have full power within 30 minutes.

What Not to Like About It

Unfortunately, this tool doesn’t have a brushless motor and will die earlier if it is put under a heavy load.

Although the battery charges quickly, most have found that it can die within an hour, if not less.

Also, it does not arrive with a belt clip, as advertised.

PROS

• Produces plenty of torque
• Charges quickly
• Works with stuck nuts
• Tightens quickly

CONS

• Not brushless
• Battery dies quickly
• Does not have a belt clip

2. KIMO Cordless Drill Driver Kit

The KIMO Cordless Drill Driver Kit is another all-in-one solution that comes with an assortment of accessories, especially when compared to the other driver kits on this list.

Instead of having to buy bits and a tool bag separately, this unit ships with plenty of tools that make it easy to use right out of the box.

Product Highlights

Contractors will love the built-in battery in this unit, as it is designed to last over 1000 cycles before needing to replace the battery, which is backed by warranty.

You’ll also love how it contains three different functions for your ease of use, as you can drive, drill, and impact drill into an assortment of materials.

Another exciting feature of the KIMO Cordless Drill Driver Kit is that it has two variable speeds, from 0 to 350 RPM for light-duty tasks and from 0 to 1350 RPM for heavy-duty projects as well as a 21+1+1 adjustable clutch.

The entire motor in this unit is built using copper, helping to dissipate heat for more prolonged use correctly, and the 330 in-lb torque that it provides is ideal for working with plastic, wood, and metal, offering an ample amount of versatility.

It’s also important to note the entire tool weighs approximately two pounds and is seven inches from front to back so that it can fit into tighter spaces.

You’ll undoubtedly want to use the built-in LED light and the forward/reverse switch, allowing you to remove secured screws easily.

The most extensive selling feature of the KIMO Cordless Drill Driver Kit is all of the equipment that it comes with, apart from the driver, its charger, and its carrying case.

You will also receive three Brad point drill bits, six drill bits, 33 screwdriver bits, and three nut driver bits.

Compared to other drivers, you’ll save more time in between charges, as the lithium-ion battery quickly charges to 100% within one hour.

What to Like About It

The grip on this drill driver is incredibly comfortable and will fit perfectly in your hand with the added convenience of a keyless chuck so you can effortlessly switch bits.

You’ll also appreciate how it has a hammering function, which combines a regular drill, driver, and hammer drill into one unit.

Its lightweight design is also notable, as you’ll be able to hold it for extended periods without experiencing hand or wrist fatigue.

What Not to Like About It

The KIMO Cordless Drill Driver Kit is best suited for at-home projects, as the brush motor doesn’t offer a long life expectancy.

You’ll also find that alternating RPM ranges won’t make much of a difference as the trigger doesn’t allow for managing the speeds effectively.

PROS

• Comfortable grip
• Easy keyless clutch
• Lightweight
• Ideal torque for household tasks

CONS

• Not recommended for professionals
• Poor trigger sensitivity
• Limited life expectancy

3. Ryobi P238 18V One+ Brushless Impact Driver

With a brushless motor, the Ryobi P238 18V One+ Brushless Impact Driver is one of the most reliable tools we’ve explored this far, especially with the versatility that is quintessential with the Ryobi brand name.

Unfortunately, this unit does not ship with a One+ battery, but it is fully adaptable with any other Ryobi One+ tools you may have on-hand.

Product Highlights

The Ryobi P238 18V One+ Brushless Impact Driver features three different speed settings instead of a full variable speed trigger.

With that said, you can choose from low, medium, and high speeds by using the speed switch mounted on the top of the device.

One of the best features of the driver is that it has the patented Gripzone Overmold, which adds friction between your hand and the tool so you can have better control over the torque, even while working in inclement conditions.

As an added benefit, this tool features a three-beam LED light located right below the keyless chuck, which is essential for eliminating shadows in your environment.

Also, there is a built-in belt clip that allows you to store and access the driver quickly, so your hands are always available for any task.

With a top speed of 3100 RPM, you’ll have plenty of power to use to drive bolts through your porch or fasten tough nuts on a vehicle.

What to Like About It 

The build quality of the Ryobi P238 18V One+ Brushless Impact Driver is quite impressive, as it can handle multiple drops without ever showing a dent.

You’ll also find that the One+ batteries perform exceptionally well, allowing you to have multiple hours of use before needing to replace the battery.

With a compelling design, you’ll be able to screw fasteners, pre-drill holes, and more, with far less effort.

What Not to Like About It

The heaviness of this driver is something to take note of, as it’s not as lightweight as some other models on the market.

Also, as it doesn’t ship with a battery, you will be responsible for buying one and its charger separately, unless you’re already a Ryobi One+ owner.

PROS

• Easy to use
• Powerful speed
• High-quality build

CONS

• Heavier than expected
• Requires a separate battery

4. Ingersoll Rand W7150-K1

Instead of opting for a lackluster impact drill that is more useful for at-home projects, the Ingersoll Rand W7150-K1 takes it to a new level, offering a high-powered professional solution.

With incredible mobility and very robust design, it could be the best option for contractors searching for a tool for heavy-duty assembly and disassembly jobs.

Product Highlights

The weight to power ratio of the Ingersoll Rand W7150-K1 is its most impressive feature, as the device weighs just under seven pounds but has 780 ft-lbs of reverse torque and 1100 ft-lbs of front-facing torque.

Contractors will appreciate the build quality of the tool as well, as it comes in a steel-lined aluminum casing that is strong but still lightweight so that all of the internal components are adequately protected.

It also has the soft-touch over-mold grip that not only improves the friction between your hand and the tool but also minimizes vibration.

The cordless power of the Ingersoll Rand W7150-K1 is fantastic, as it delivers excellent torque under a variety of conditions.

The impact-resistant housing makes it ideal for industrial environments, and the reliable 20V lithium-ion battery holds an excellent charge for extended periods.

An added convenience is the auxiliary USB port on the IQV20 Charger.

What to Like About It 

The Ingersoll Rand W7150-K1 is just as significant as an air-powered impact tool, which makes it an incredibly useful option for heavy-duty tasks.

You’ll also find that it deals with stuck nuts far easier than some of the less powerful drill drivers on the market, even without grease.

The batteries are also very impressive, as they can last several hours with intermittent use and charge relatively quickly.

What Not to Like About It

The most considerable disadvantage with this driver is that the forward/reverse switch has the tendency to stick, which is very inconvenient if you need to switch mid-job.

Also, it’s longevity is something to question, as plenty of contractors have experienced issues with the batteries dying entirely or the triggers breaking after several uses.

PROS

• Strong like air-powered tools
• Fantastic for heavy-duty projects
• Impressive battery charge

CONS

• Forward/reverse switch sticks
• Poor longevity

5. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit (BDCI20C)

This tool is high-performance in the sense that it delivers a useful transmission for most projects you need to tackle.

It features a few convenient traits that you’ll like having on-hand, such as a quick-release chuck and internal battery monitoring.

Overall, the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit (BDCI20C) is an excellent option as an affordable addition to your arsenal.

Product Highlights

The most extensive selling feature of this unit is its high-performance transmission, which offers up to 1375 in-lbs of maximum torque in a single sitting.

You’ll also love having the quick release function on the 1/4” hex chuck, which makes it even simpler to switch bits while in the middle of a project.

Using the variable speed trigger, you can choose the ideal RPM in the range of 0 to 3000 and 0 to 3900 BPM.

Similar to the Ryobi model we discussed earlier, the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit (BDCI20C) has a universal battery that works with other 20V MAX BLACK+DECKER tools, helping to make charging even more convenient.

Within your kit, you will receive the driver, a battery, a charger, and a screwdriver bit, so it will be fully ready to use upon its arrival.

What to Like About It 

The BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit (BDCI20C) is perfectly designed for an assortment of at-home projects, allowing you to hammer in screws or extract bolts easily.

You’ll love the soft comfort of the handle and the balanced weight that adds sturdiness to the unit without being too overbearing.

Also, thanks to its small size and trigger-activated LED light, you’ll have perfect visibility in dark, tight spaces.

What Not to Like About It

If you’re searching for a heavy-duty drill driver, this isn’t the right model for you, as you might find that it’s relatively underpowered.

Also, the batteries don’t have a fantastic lifespan, and they may need to be charged after an hour or less of use, especially if you’re using a high RPM for an extended period.

PROS

• Convenient for DIY projects
• Extracts regular bolts easily
• Comfortable and soft handle
• Balanced and sturdy

CONS

• Not for professionals
• Lackluster battery life

Buyer’s Guide: Best Impact Drill

When buying an impact drill, you’ll want to ensure it has all of the features you’d need for an assortment of projects and not just small DIY tasks.

There are several important characteristics to consider, including the power, ergonomics, and torque that your device will provide, as this will translate to how easy and efficient it is to use.

With this buyer’s guide, you will know what to look for in top-shelf impact drills on the market.

1. Motor

The type of motor your impact drill has will hold a strong bearing over the durability of the tool over time.

As you choose between brushed and brushless motors, it’s important to note that brushless motors are the far better solution, although they are also more expensive.

With a brushless motor, they require less maintenance and last longer since they contain innovative technologies that help the device to produce less heat and consume less power while still providing an ample amount of torque.

You’re also likely to receive an impact driver with an assortment of other high-tech features if you opt for a brushless model, which makes them well worth the investment.

Most of these designs are highly adaptable for beginners and professional contractors alike, which makes them a convenient solution.

2. Voltage

The voltage of your chosen impact drill is essential since this will determine how much power is provided to the unit that creates torque.

You’ll find these tools are available in either 12 or 18 volts, with 18 volts having far more inch-pounds than 12V designs.

However, not everyone needs to have their hands on the most powerful option, as 12V models are more lightweight and can accomplish up to 80% of the load of 18V drills.

3. Trigger and RPM

Similar to a traditional drill, impact drills have a unique feature known as a trigger, which allows you to control the speed for each project.

Depending on the RPM range of your tool, you will appreciate having full control over how much torque is provided, as you likely won’t need to top out the drill for every task.

You will want to make sure that the variable speed trigger is not only comfortable to use but that it’s also precise, allowing you to easily navigate speeds from 0 to 3000 RPM, depending on the type of impact drill you have.

4. Torque and IPM

By far, the largest selling point of any impact drill is its torque since it’s the sole purpose of the tool.

When choosing the perfect torque, you’ll want to think about the materials you work with the most, as you can opt for less torque with thin materials compared to thick and hardened metals, for example.

You’ll find that most 12V impact drills will offer 800 to 1200 inch-pound ranges, with 18V options featuring 1350 to 2250 inch-pound ranges.

Another important concept to consider is IPM (Impacts Per Minute), which is how many times the anvil and hammer will pound against the fastener.

If you know you’ll be handling a particularly stubborn task, you’ll want to make sure you opt for a high IPM as well as a high torque rating.

12V models will have an IPM of 2200 to 3500, while 18V drills will typically offer between 1750 and 3750 IPM.

5. Controls

The controls on most user-friendly and affordable impact drills will be necessary but will still give you the ability to excel optimal control over the tool.

You will undoubtedly want to have a forward/reverse switch as well as a comfortable and precise trigger.

Ideally, the controls should be able to be changed with the flick of a switch or depressing a button that is near your thumb when holding the tool.

Another phenomenal control to have is a trigger lock, which allows you to lock the trigger so that it cannot be inadvertently pushed while stored in your tool bag.

You’ll find that locking the speed can also help to preserve battery life by preventing accidental start-ups.

6. Overmold and Ergonomics

Any tool that you invest in should be comfortable to hold in your hand, especially if you’re someone who spends a lot of time on lengthy projects.

This point is particularly crucial because impact drills aren’t as lightweight as impact drivers, which can make them a little more challenging to handle.

Having an over-mold surrounding, the handle will help to balance the weight of the tool, meanwhile giving your hand a comfortable place to rest while maintaining your grip.

Ergonomics are also essential to consider with an over-mold, as you’ll want to ensure your thumb and finger can rest comfortably on the trigger for extended periods, especially while building a boat.

7. Work Light and Belt Hook

Being able to have high visibility in low light conditions is optimal, especially if your impact drill has an onboard work light for you to put to fair use.

These lights are typically built-in surrounding the drill bit and will illuminate a specific area once the trigger is pulled.

Another convenient feature is a belt hook, especially for professionals who don’t want to have to put the drill down every time they shift from one place to another.

Even while climbing a ladder, having a built-in belt hook can help you to easily stow and access the impact drill without needing an extra tool belt.

FAQs

1. What Is an Impact Drill Used For?

When you’re looking for a high-torque tool, an impact drill is your best bet.

In the past, people would avoid using impact drills because they would put undue stress on bits, but with the invention of hex-shank accessories and specialized bit sets, this issue can be avoided.

If you need to drive screws and tighten nuts, an impact driver is very convenient, and they can be a more lightweight option compared to drill drivers.

2. What Are the Benefits of an Impact Driver?

The most considerable advantage of an impact driver is that it gives you the ability to screw and tighten nuts and screws far faster than if you opted for a combined drill driver.

Since there is one purpose to an impact driver, it has far more torque output, which can help you to finish projects in less time.

You’ll also find that it is more comfortable and lightweight to hold for extended periods.

3. Should I Buy a Drill or Impact Driver?

If you’re trying to decide between a drill driver and an impact driver, you’ll want to take your uses into account.

Do you already have a drill, and if so, does it perform at the level you would expect?

Drill drivers are a fantastic combination of both a traditional hand drill and an impact driver, which makes them a convenient all-in-one solution.

However, if you don’t need a new drill, you can easily opt for an impact driver, which will have more torque and power.

4. Why Is an Impact Driver Better Than a Drill?

If you were to test an impact driver to a regular drill, you’d find that drivers have up to three times more power, although they are only used for one job: driving screws.

With that said, you will have to harness the massive amount of speed and power that these tools provide, which can create a learning curve for first-time users, but once you get it under control, you won’t ever want to go back to a drill driver.

Another massive advantage to impact drivers is that they can work with substantially larger screws (in length and width) than a drill, especially if you want to prevent stalling.

5. What Is the Difference Between an Impact Drill and Hammer Drill?

The main difference between an impact and a hammer drill is how force is put onto the bit that you are using.

Hammer drills will push all of their force directly into the bit, whereas impact drills increase the sheer strength.

You’ll find that hammer drills operate more like a traditional hammer as if you were slamming the back surface of the screw into the wood.

On the other hand, impact drills work more like using a manual wrench around the screw, forcing it into the wood, instead of applying all of the pressure on the head.

Many users also find that thanks to the perpendicular pressure, impact drills have far more torque, which allows you to have better control when boat building.

Final Verdict

The best impact drill that you can get your hands on is the Ryobi P238 18V One+ Brushless Impact Driver because it has a high-quality brushless motor designed to last over multiple years of use.

The heavy-duty build of the device also makes it essential for industrial projects, as is the reliability of the One+ battery.

Although it’s slightly heavier than you would expect, its powerful 3100 RPM speeds and 2000 in-lbs make it an ideal choice for an assortment of projects.

For more drill advices and reviews, check out Boat Diaries’ blog section now!