Impact Or Non-Impact Screwdriver Which Is Better

12th August 2020

Choosing a screwdriver by class and type Compact and light or powerful and heavy, impact or shockless. Which tool to choose? We compare the parameters and capabilities of cordless drills of different classes.

Pictured: Makita BHP454RFE cordless percussion drill.

Heavy class

Unification of drills-screwdrivers 14.4 and 18 V The 14.4 V and 18 V models are placed in one row for a reason. Today, manufacturers produce such screwdrivers in one line. It consists of tools that are almost identical in appearance, but different in characteristics. This applies to both middle and heavy classes. There are machines with a voltage of 36 V still on sale, but these are, by and large, outdated models. New products. If we are talking about a tool called “cordless screwdriver”. You will not see such a voltage.

The same batteries 14.4 and 18 V, but different power. In addition to the very high power, models of the heavy class are distinguished by their solid size and weight. To match the price. To perform simple operations, it is irrational to take such screwdrivers. They are designed for demanding work (in particular on a construction site).
Maximum possibilities. The heavy-duty cordless screwdriver has a maximum “soft” torque of 40-50 Nm, which allows you to tighten thick long self-tapping screws and drill large-diameter holes with perforated drills or hole saws without any problems.
The construction is replete with metal. From it, in particular, a single-sleeve cartridge and a gearbox housing are made. In some cases, such models have not two, but three gears.

Middle class

Advantages and Disadvantages of Impact Tools

For many buyers who are faced with the choice of which drill or wrench to choose, the question arises as to how the impact driver is superior to the impactless model.

The increased torque allows the technician to apply significantly less effort when working with the tool, without pressing on the body itself. For most models, the values of this indicator are in the range from 80 to 250 N / m.
The possibility of using not only for self-tapping screws, but also for working with nuts. With the free running of the product, the screwdriver works in the standard mode, when resistance occurs and the nut runs smoothly along the thread, the mode automatically switches to the impact mode.
Since there is no need to apply excessive force to tighten the bolts and screws, the caps will not deform. The power of the tool is also sufficient for reverse action. Unscrewing parts that have changed their original shape or rusted;
The ease of use also helps to relieve stress on the user’s hand and wrist.

The limitations and disadvantages of impact-producing screwdrivers include a decrease in the screwing speed during impact mode, since the tool’s actions are concentrated on the turning moment and on the quality of work. Also, only hexagonal chucks can be used. The degree of twisting must be controlled independently, since there is no limiting clutch. There is also an increased noise level when working at high speed.

Why do you need an impact screwdriver

In the arsenal of each owner there is a tool that allows you to tighten or unscrew a screw, a self-tapping screw, to make minor home repairs, assemble furniture, drill a wall for a new picture. Automatic electric drills greatly simplify the process, allowing you to drill almost any surface without much effort and unnecessary debris.

Now on the market there is a huge selection of tools from different manufacturers, models, wired and mobile, for various surfaces and with different operating principles. According to experts, among the colossal variety of drills, the most productive, convenient, versatile and multifunctional is the impact driver.

Differences between a traditional drill and an impact type screwdriver

Before many craftsmen who choose tools for home use or for work, the question arises, what is the difference between the not yet well-known impact-type screwdriver and the usual standard electric drill. With a similar appearance, the main difference is the principle of operation:

In the first case, the tool has an impact mechanism, which drives the drill, while increasing the torque;
A standard electric drill is based on a two-stage gearbox.

This distinction is beginning to show itself, giving an advantage to the percussion type tool when working on hard and particularly difficult surfaces. When the drill senses resistance, it sends out a series of powerful and quick blows that multiply the torque and make it much easier to tighten the fastener.

It is also worth distinguishing between an impact screwdriver and a drill. With the same principle of operation, they have a different direction of impact. For a drill, this is longitudinal, and for a screwdriver, it is perpendicular to the direction of rotation. The process of action of the tool is most clearly represented as small blows with a wrench while tightening the nut.

Differences between a screwdriver and a conventional drill

The main difference between this tool and a conventional drill is the mandatory presence of the function of screwing in and out of fasteners. This tool is very convenient, as it allows you to solve several problems at once.

Most often, drills are presented on the market in a cordless version. They are convenient, as they allow you to work independently of the electrical network and not get tangled in the wires. There are also electrical models that operate from the mains. Therefore, if you need to work for a long time and not think about when the battery charge runs out, you can choose a cordless drill / screwdriver.

How to choose a wrench

An impact wrench is a hand tool for working with threaded fasteners of various diameters. It will not be difficult to find the right model if you know the main characteristics of the tool and its capabilities.

impact or impactless screwdriver which is better

Characteristics influencing the choice of a drill-driver

Battery voltage, capacity and type (for cordless drills) The power of the tool depends on the voltage that the battery supplies to power the tool.

The battery capacity determines the operating time of the tool: the higher the capacity, the longer the operating time.

Battery type for device operation: Ni-Cd, Ni-MH, Li-Ion, Li-power and Li-HD.

Nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) has a low cost, can work in cold weather. Cons: relatively small number of charge / discharge cycles, self-discharge up to 20% per month, memory effect. The Ni-Cd battery must be fully charged / discharged in order not to shorten the operating time of the tool on a single charge.

Nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) with the same dimensions as Ni-Cd, has a high capacity and self-discharge from 3 to 7%, reduced memory effect, is designed to work in cold weather.

The lithium-ion (Li-Ion) battery does not have a memory effect, self-discharge is about 1% per month, but when working in cold weather, the battery quickly discharges.

The new generation Li-power and Li-HD batteries can operate at temperatures up to 18 and 30 ° С, respectively, without fast discharge.

When choosing a specific type of battery, we advise you to be guided by whether you already have a cordless tool. In this case, you can choose a drill without batteries and a charger in the kit and save money, and use suitable tools from an existing tool as a power supply.

Maximum torque

The higher the torque, the wider the working range of the tool.

Torque value	Recommended tooling size, mm	Maximum allowable tooling size, mm
Up to 20 Nm	3,5×50	3,5×50
Up to 30 Nm	4×50	5×150
Up to 35 Nm	4.5×60	6×200
Up to 40 Nm	5×100	6×280
Up to 48 Nm	5×120	6×300
Up to 60 Nm	6×200	8×240
90-110 Nm	8×350	10×600

Drill drivers with high torque. From 110 Nm and more. Can be used to drill holes in ice.

Number of speeds
The more speeds, the more efficient the tool. High speed is usually used for drilling holes, low speed for screwing / unscrewing screws.

Number of revolutions
The maximum number of engine revolutions per unit of time. Even with low power, the high number of revolutions provides the tool with high productivity.

Number of torque steps
Affects the ability to control the tightening torque. The greater the number of steps of torque, the higher the likelihood that all screws and screws will be screwed to the required depth.

Chuck type
Chucks are usually used in screwdrivers:

Reverse
This function changes the direction of rotation of the tool from CW to CW. Used to turn out the rig.

Pulse mode
Only present in Metabo. The essence of the pulse mode is that the spindle rotates with jerks, while a temporary increase in torque occurs. Pulse operation increases tool efficiency.

Backlight
Used for spot illumination of the working area.

Operating modes
Manufacturers offer impact drills and hammerless drills.

The impact function, due to the rotational-translational motion, makes it easier and faster to drill holes in hard materials, especially in concrete. But such a tool still loses to a punch in performance. So consider whether you need a hammer drill or a cheaper no hammer drill and hammer drill specifically for concrete work.

Maximum drilling diameter
The characteristic shows the maximum possible drilling diameter in wood and metal.

If, after familiarizing yourself with the characteristics, you still have doubts about choosing a model, be sure to evaluate the ergonomics of the tool: its weight, thickness and shape of the handle, etc. This will help you finally make your choice and purchase a convenient and reliable tool that will last a long time.

Professional application.

For working with fasteners in an assembly plant (for example, in a furniture shop), a cordless screwdriver without drilling function is suitable. An example of such a tool is the Makita 6802BV. A powerful and efficient model suitable for intensive use. High rates of number of revolutions (2500 rpm) provide a significant acceleration of the work process. The built-in reverse function allows you to perform not only tightening, but also unscrewing screws and self-tapping screws.

If the tool is planned to be used during installation or construction work, and high mobility of use is required from it, then you should pay attention to the Makita cordless screwdrivers. One of them is Makita DTD155RFE. It also features high revs and torque. Up to 3000 rpm and 140 Nm, respectively. Another advantage of this model is the impact mode, which allows you to more efficiently screw fasteners into durable materials. A special hex chuck for bits allows for quick replacement of equipment.

During construction or renovation, it may be necessary not only to tighten a screw or self-tapping screw, but also to drill a hole in wood, metal or concrete. In such a situation, the best choice is a screwdriver with a drilling function. A suitable option would be the DDF481, a high-torque drill / driver (115 Nm). The powerful motor allows you to drill holes up to 76 mm in diameter. There are two versions of this model in the assortment, differing in equipment: the DDF481RTE version comes with two batteries and a charger, and the DDF481Z. Without these accessories. In the second case, the necessary components will have to be purchased separately.

Which Makita screwdriver is best?

The choice of this or that Makita screwdriver depends, first of all, on the field of application of the tool. Depending on the cost and technical characteristics, the models are divided into two main categories. Professional and household. Based on this, you need to make a choice.

Household screwdrivers

When performing more or less serious repair or finishing work, it will be appropriate to purchase a screwdriver with a drilling function. Such a tool is unlikely to require too high power. 30-50 Nm is enough. It is worth noting the inexpensive, but at the same time easy-to-use and productive model Makita DF331DWYE. The device has a compact size and does not take up much space during storage. In addition, the ergonomic rubberized grip provides full control over the tool. The reverse function makes it easy to pull out a stuck drill without breaking it.

For periodic use (for example, once or twice a month), an inexpensive Makita DA331DZ drill driver is suitable. Angled design provides comfortable work even in hard-to-reach places; the built-in backlight function contributes to the same. The maximum drilling diameter in wood is 10 mm, which is enough for most everyday tasks. Please note that rechargeable batteries and chargers for this unit are supplied separately. Compatible accessory models are Makita 194550-6 and Makita DC10WA.

Makita screwdrivers

Second on the list is Makita, a Japanese company that has been making professional construction tools for 60 years. The range of the company includes both cordless and cordless Makita screwdrivers, coping with tasks such as:

1. Tightening screws, self-tapping screws and nuts into wooden structures;
2. Drilling holes in wooden surfaces;
3. Installation of plasterboard structures.

In addition to the standard models, those who make the Makita screwdriver offer a range of devices equipped with an impact function. If the idle speed of the shockless device reaches 2300 rpm, the impact drivers reach speeds of up to 3200 rpm. With this strength, the tool works well even on stone and iron surfaces.

With their small size and ergonomic appearance, the company’s screwdrivers operate at high power, reaching high values of torque and working speed. The result is a perceptible vibration that even the ergonomic handle does not completely contain. Despite this, the company’s devices remain one of the most convenient on the market thanks to the rubberized handles and LED backlighting.

The Achilles’ heel of Makita devices is a weak battery that needs frequent recharging. Experienced craftsmen advise buying the best network models (such as FS4000 or FS2700), as for a modest surcharge, they significantly reduce time costs. However, if a screwdriver is needed not for professional purposes, but for home fastening work. It is not that important.

Top 10 best manufacturers of screwdrivers which brand is better

Manufacturer. One of the main criteria when choosing both a professional and a household screwdriver. And if the buyer is already wondering which company a screwdriver to choose, he is looking for tools from only the most reputable companies. Companies distinguished not only by a wide range of products, but also by high customer ratings.

Among the manufacturers of screwdrivers, we have identified 10 that show excellent results, both in construction and in home fastening work. Here you will find information about each of them.

Sparky screwdrivers

The fourth position in the list is occupied by Sparky Bulgarian screwdrivers. An experienced craftsman will distinguish them from afar thanks to the inherent red and black colors of the company’s models and an ergonomic shape that makes it possible to work in the most inaccessible places.

Despite the low prices, Bulgarian screwdrivers are not inferior to German and Japanese competitors in terms of safety and quality standards. Experienced craftsmen highlight a number of design features that make fastening work an order of magnitude easier and more comfortable:

1.Possibility without tool replacement of the nozzle thanks to the keyless chuck;
2. Light weight, ergonomic design and compact size, increasing the range of applicability of the device;
3. The ability to adjust the torque, an order of magnitude higher than the accuracy of work;
4. Led illumination, giving work in low light conditions;
5.Reliable motor and two-speed synchronized transmission, helping to achieve trouble-free operation in the most challenging areas.

Sparky Bulgarian drills and screwdrivers are capable of handling a wide range of materials. Among the models, the buyer will find both simpler models used for wood and drywall, and impact models for stone and metal (such as BUR2 18 Li and BVR 63 E HD).

Among the range of models, you can easily find both network and battery models. If you want fast discharging batteries not to limit the operating time, the devices use a pair of lithium-ion batteries at once. When one battery is dead. It should be put on charge, quickly replaced with a second one. The device is equipped with energy indicators, so a discharged battery will not be a surprise to the master. So the work with the screwdriver will be continuous.

Impact or non-impact screwdriver: what to choose and in which case

The main feature that favorably distinguishes a screwdriver from a drill is its compactness and the ability to work independently. A few years ago, the operating time of the device without recharging was relatively short, but today, after the appearance of more capacious and energy-efficient batteries, manufacturers were able to significantly increase the mobility of screwdrivers and provide them with new functions. One of them is the percussion mechanism. Which is better. An impact or non-impact screwdriver, and what criteria should be used to choose this tool.

Features of a shockless design

It is known that the simpler the design, the more reliable it is. Due to the absence of constant alternating loads, the chucks and rotors of shockless screwdrivers are less susceptible to wear. Add to this the relatively low cost, small dimensions and weight, longer operating time without recharging. And we get a number of obvious advantages over a percussion instrument. So, if the main task of the device is to work with wood and soft brick, screwing and unscrewing serviceable fasteners under light loads, then preference should be given to a non-impact screwdriver.

Problems will arise when the owner of the tool has to face difficult tasks. The main drawback of a hammerless tool is its almost complete uselessness in drilling hard inelastic surfaces, such as concrete or stone. When working with damaged or hard-wired fasteners, there is a high risk of damage to them. The working head will simply rotate in the crosspiece or on the hexagon without doing any useful work.

Pros and cons of an impact screwdriver

If you tried to drill concrete with an ordinary screwdriver, then you probably know how long, time consuming and thankless it is. An impact screwdriver easily copes with such a task, gives an advantage in working with brick and masonry, but still its effectiveness is far from the capabilities of a full-size impact drill and, moreover, a hammer drill. But in tightening screws and screws “with an interference” impact screwdriver has no equal.

In addition, the tool makes it relatively easy to unscrew fasteners with a damaged cross or partially erased edges. Do not forget that with long-term continuous operation, the percussion instrument does not load the wrist as much as the unstressed one.

However, the impact design can create a number of inconveniences:

The pusher mechanism is subject to rapid wear, which is especially evident in inexpensive models.
With the transition to the shock mode, the operating speed decreases significantly, while the noise level, on the contrary, increases.
An impact driver cannot be equipped with such useful accessories as a cam chuck (almost always hexagons are used) and a torque limiting clutch.

How the cordless and cordless impact driver works

The electric impact screwdriver, whether it is mains or cordless, provides a tangential impact in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation. In other words, when screwing in the screws, the force developed by the tool is not continuous, but is a high-frequency series of small blows. Its work is similar to what happens, for example, when putting an open-end wrench on a nut and tapping on this wrench with a hammer.

The total force that a cordless or cordless screwdriver of this type develops is the sum of the forces it hits during a unit of time.

Externally, the impact screwdriver is very similar to its non-impact counterpart:

Conventional non-impact screwdriver

Impact screwdriver and its advantages

Large amount of torque, in some models reaching 250 Nm.
Convenient when tightening screws and screws. With a low resistance level, the tool is able to work in a shock-free mode, developing a continuous force required for twisting. If the resistance increases, the tool switches to impact mode when tightening with a high torque.
There is no need for large pressing forces, which saves the surface of the screw heads from “licking”. This feature of the tool makes it possible to unscrew the screws, the head of which has already begun to bulge.
The amount of torsional load on the user’s wrist is reduced.

Disadvantages of Impact Screwdrivers

With a rather extensive list of advantages, impact screwdrivers are not devoid of disadvantages, the main ones of which should be attributed:

Low twisting speed in case of transition to shock mode.
Impossibility of using jaw chucks, except in rare cases. In a percussion instrument, hexagons are almost always installed.
Inability to install a torque limiting clutch. For this reason, control over the entire process is assigned to the worker, which can be quite inconvenient, since the tool shaft rotates at a very high speed.
Increased noise level when using the shock mode.

Characteristics of impact screwdrivers

Before choosing any power tool, you should familiarize yourself with its characteristics. Regarding impact screwdrivers, he

Cordless hammer drill screwdriver BOSCH GSB

Weight: 1-1.3 kg;
Power: 230-300 W;
Idle, frequency per minute: 0-3600;
The number of beats per minute up to 3200;
Has double electrical insulation;
Equipped with a reverse mechanism;
Many models have a light bulb to illuminate the work surface.

Impact screwdriver benefits

By purchasing this power tool, you greatly facilitate your work at home or in the workshop, and on a production scale it is simply irreplaceable.

Let’s consider the main advantages of the tool:

Impact drill screwdriver HITACH

It completely replaces the screwdriver;
Using an impact screwdriver, you can tighten or unscrew any nuts and screws;
If necessary, drill wood or even metal or concrete;
The device is much more compact and easier to use than, for example, a drill;
This type of power tool is equipped with an adjustable clutch, which allows you to limit the torque and avoid damage to the fasteners;
There is no need for strong pressure when tightening screws or screws, which allows you to save their caps and then it will not be difficult to unscrew them if the need arises;
High wear resistance of the tool;
The possibility of installation in hard-to-reach places due to the compactness of the device.

Impact screwdriver: characteristics and features

A screwdriver is an indispensable tool in everyday life for every man. With its help, it will not be difficult to attach a shelf or hang pictures. The screwdriver is specially designed to tighten and unscrew screws, nuts or self-tapping screws. The electrical appliance market is so diverse that it is difficult to navigate and choose the right tool. The best option today is an impact driver. What are its differences from the usual, what are the characteristics and features?

Impact driver Makita DHP453RFE

Advantages and Disadvantages of Impact Tools

For many buyers who are faced with the choice of which drill or wrench to choose, the question arises as to how the impact driver is superior to the impactless model.

The increased torque allows the technician to apply significantly less effort when working with the tool, without pressing on the body itself. For most models, the values of this indicator are in the range from 80 to 250 N / m.
The possibility of using not only for self-tapping screws, but also for working with nuts. With the free running of the product, the screwdriver works in the standard mode, when resistance occurs and the nut runs smoothly along the thread, the mode automatically switches to the impact mode.
Since there is no need to apply excessive force to tighten the bolts and screws, the caps will not deform. The power of the tool is also sufficient for the reverse action. Unscrewing the parts that have changed their original shape or rusted;
The ease of use also helps to relieve stress on the user’s hand and wrist.

Differences between a traditional drill and an impact type screwdriver

In the first case, the tool has an impact mechanism, which drives the drill, while increasing the torque;
A standard electric drill is based on a two-stage gearbox.

It is also worth distinguishing between an impact screwdriver and a drill. With the same principle of operation, they have a different direction of impact. For a drill, this is longitudinal, and for a screwdriver, it is perpendicular to the direction of rotation. The process of action of the tool is most clearly represented as small blows with a wrench while tightening the nut.