Most homeowners use a drill for jobs that call for an impact driver. Consumer Reports tested models on power, run time, and noise to find the best
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An impact driver is a cordless power tool that hammers a screw while it turns, driving fasteners into wood, metal, and cement far faster than a traditional drill can. Full-sized models run on 18- to 24-volt batteries, while compact versions run on 12 to 14 volts and still handle cabinet installation and shelf hanging. The best models drive fasteners into hard materials like brick or concrete without predrilling. The worst lose their charge before a project is finished.
Consumer Reports tested standard and compact impact drivers on power, run time, and noise to find the models worth buying.
Credit: Cat
Priced at $187, the Cat DX71 is a full-sized standard impact driver from a brand best known for its commercial excavation equipment. Consumer Reports notes it packs strong power and charges quickly, with ample run time alongside solid handling. CR also notes it is very loud, requiring hearing protection for safe use. The tool comes with a storage case, a built-in LED light, and a standard three-year warranty.
Credit: Festool
At $385, the Festool TID 18 HPC 4,0 I-Plus is the priciest pick on this list. Consumer Reports says it earns top marks for power and run time, with the performance driven in part by its large 4.0-amp-hour battery. CR notes the German brand carries an almost mythical reputation among high-end contractors, and the test results back that status up. It comes with two batteries, a storage case, and a three-year warranty.
Credit: Amazon
The Flex FX1351-2A costs $167 and delivers what Consumer Reports calls stellar performance, with a top-tier power score and top-notch run and charge times. Handling rates below the best in its class, and CR notes it is louder than most other models tested. The driver comes loaded with extras, including a battery-charge indicator, a storage case, and an LED work light. CR also calls out its generous five-year warranty.
Credit: Hilti
The Hilti 3554486 is a compact impact driver priced at $290 that runs on a 22-volt battery system. Consumer Reports says it performs excellently in handling and run time tests, and its power rating is very good. CR adds that it is pretty noisy and not as powerful as the strongest options in its size class. It includes two batteries with charge-level indicator lights, a built-in belt hook, and a storage case, though its two-year warranty is on the short side compared with other top picks.
Credit: Lowe's
Consumer Reports calls the Kobalt KXID 1424A-03 a great budget compact impact driver at $180. CR says its power is excellent and its run time is better than average, though handling is only passable. The tool comes with a storage case, an LED work light, and a built-in belt hook. CR flags that the battery takes a long time to charge fully and the driver is extremely noisy, making hearing protection necessary for safe use.
Credit: Milwaukee
At $199, the Milwaukee 2850-22CT earns strong marks across the board in Consumer Reports' tests. Its power rating is top level, and run time, handling, and charge time are all above average. CR notes it is packed with features, including a battery-charge indicator, an LED work light, and a built-in belt hook. It comes with a five-year warranty.
