Best oftools

The 6 Best Impact Drivers for Homeowners

Faster driving, less wrist strain

Independently tested·4.5/ 5avg of 5··5 picks· How we tested
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An impact driver sinks long screws and lags that stall a drill. After framing a deck, hanging cabinets, and building shelving, these are the models worth your money.

At a glance

Our top 5 picks

PickAwardRatingPriceJump to
M18 FUEL 1/4" Hex Impact Driver
Milwaukee
Best Overall4.9$180-$230Read
20V MAX XR 1/4" Impact Driver
DeWalt
Best Value4.7$130-$180Read
18V LXT Sub-Compact Impact Driver
Makita
Best Compact4.6$120-$160Read
ONE+ HP Brushless Impact Driver
Ryobi
Best Budget4.3$80-$120Read
20V MAX Impact Driver
Black+Decker
Best for Light Duty4.0$60-$90Read
Best OverallMilwaukee

M18 FUEL 1/4" Hex Impact Driver

4.9/ 5

Sinks 3-inch deck screws without hesitation and the four-mode drive control keeps small fasteners from snapping. The best balance of power and control we tested.

Pros
  • Excellent power-to-weight
  • Four drive modes
  • Great battery ecosystem
Cons
  • Premium price
$180-$230
At Amazon
Check Price on Amazon
Best ValueDeWalt

20V MAX XR 1/4" Impact Driver

4.7/ 5

Nearly the same driving power for meaningfully less money, and kits are constantly on sale.

Pros
  • Strong value
  • Compact head
  • Wide kit availability
Cons
  • Louder than the Milwaukee
$130-$180
At Amazon
See Budget Price on Amazon
Best CompactMakita

18V LXT Sub-Compact Impact Driver

4.6/ 5

Short enough to fit between joists and cabinet boxes where full-size drivers will not reach.

Pros
  • Very light
  • Fits tight spaces
  • Smooth trigger
Cons
  • Less torque for lags
$120-$160
At Amazon
See Price on Amazon
Best BudgetRyobi

ONE+ HP Brushless Impact Driver

4.3/ 5

Plenty of driver for occasional projects, and the battery platform covers dozens of yard and shop tools.

Pros
  • Lowest cost of entry
  • Huge battery lineup
Cons
  • Heavier
  • Slower under load
Best for Light DutyBlack+Decker

20V MAX Impact Driver

4.0/ 5

Fine for flat-pack furniture, hanging blinds, and light deck repairs on a tight budget.

Pros
  • Inexpensive
  • Light
Cons
  • Struggles with lags
  • Short runtime
$60-$90
At Amazon
See Price on Amazon
Methodology

We ran each driver through 3-inch deck screws, 1/4-inch lags, and cabinet installs, tracking runtime, one-handed balance, and how well the clutch avoided cam-out.

How we make money: Some links above are affiliate links — when you buy through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It never influences our picks. Read our editorial standards.

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