This category covers impact drivers and impact wrenches for driving screws and tightening or loosening bolts and nuts, suited to tradespeople, keen DIYers and workshop users. Over 80 models are in our range, with DEWALT, Makita, Bosch and Einhell among the leading brands.
Both cordless and corded tools are available, so you can match the tool to the job.
How to choose an impact driver or impact wrench
Driver or wrench. An impact driver has a 1/4 inch hex socket for screwdriver bits and suits decking screws, coach screws and general fastening. An impact wrench has a square drive, commonly 1/2 inch, and is made for wheel nuts, structural bolts and machinery. If most of your work is screws, choose a driver. If you regularly deal with large nuts and bolts, choose a wrench.
Cordless or corded. Cordless tools run on a rechargeable battery and move freely around a site or vehicle, and most use 12V or 18V systems. Corded models give constant output without charging, which helps on long jobs at a bench or in a workshop.
Torque and speed settings. Higher maximum torque helps with seized fasteners and long screws, but too much force can strip small screws or snap fixings. Look for several speed or power modes so you can work gently on delicate jobs. Manufacturers often quote loosening torque, which is usually higher than the torque available for tightening, so compare like with like.
Battery platform and motor type. If you already own batteries from a brand, a tool that uses the same battery system saves money and avoids a second charger. Brushless motors generally run cooler, waste less energy and need less maintenance than brushed ones. Check whether the battery and charger are included before comparing totals.
Impact driver and wrench brands we carry
- DEWALT: best known for its 18V XR cordless system, which is used on building sites and shares batteries across a large number of tools.
- Makita: a Japanese manufacturer with a long history in cordless tools, known for its 18V LXT battery platform.
- Bosch: makes the blue Professional range for daily trade use and a separate green range aimed at home and garden users.
- Einhell: a German brand whose Power X-Change battery system powers many tools from one set of batteries, popular with home users.
- Yato: a Polish brand offering tools for workshop and home use at a modest outlay.
- Metabo: a German manufacturer focused on professional cordless tools for metalwork and construction.
- Ryobi and BLACK+DECKER: brands aimed mainly at home and DIY use, with lighter tools for occasional jobs.
- Stanley: best known for hand tools, and also sells power tools for household tasks.
Also in our range: Dedra, Wuber and Batavia.
Impact drivers and wrenches: frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an impact driver and a drill driver?
An impact driver adds rapid rotational hammering when it meets resistance, which drives long screws and tight fasteners with less effort from you. A drill driver turns smoothly with an adjustable clutch and is better for drilling holes and for delicate screwdriving. Many people own both, since they handle different jobs well.
Can I remove car wheel nuts with an impact driver?
An impact wrench is the right tool for wheel nuts. A compact impact driver usually lacks the torque and has a hex drive rather than a square drive, so it needs adapters and may struggle with tight nuts. Choose a wrench with a 1/2 inch square drive and enough loosening torque for your vehicle.
Should I choose a 12V or 18V impact driver?
Choose 12V if you want a lighter tool for small screws and work in confined spaces. Choose 18V for long screws, hardwood, frequent heavy use or an impact wrench. The decision also depends on which battery system you already own, since batteries are not interchangeable between brands.
Is a brushless impact driver worth having?
A brushless impact driver is worth it if you use the tool often. The motor has no carbon brushes to wear out, which usually means longer runtime per charge and less heat. For occasional household use, a brushed model can still do the job well.
