What Is The Difference Between A Cordless Drill And A Screwdriver

What are they

Humanity has long been using drills and other tools for making holes in various works.

Over time, a drill appeared, which made it possible to mechanize the manual labor of drillers.

After the invention of the electric motor, a drill was invented, in which the drill rotated with the help of such a motor.

In various sectors of the national economy and in everyday life, the most different types of drills are used, making holes in materials of any hardness.

In addition, attachments attached to them began to be used, allowing them to perform grinding and cutting work. Drills began to be used for loosening and tightening screws.

Today, pneumatic, electric and even gasoline drills are common. The most popular are electric drills, which are used by both professionals and for various household tasks.

They usually differ:

  • Pistol-shaped body
  • An electric motor located inside it
  • Impact mechanism for drilling
  • The presence of a switch, power regulator
  • Chuck for fixing drills and various accessories.

Outwardly similar to a drill is a screwdriver. To understand how a screwdriver differs from a drill, it is enough to determine their purpose. If the drill functionally serves to make holes, then the screwdriver is specially designed to quickly tighten or unscrew screws, screws and other screw fasteners.

Comparing screwdriver and drill

In a screwdriver, one of the most important parameters is the maximum torque.

No high rotation speed needed.

Under normal conditions, two to three hundred revolutions per minute are sufficient.

Sometimes a gearbox is installed to reduce speed and increase torque.

This is done using a special regulator.

They are given the force required to tighten a specific type of screw or screw, to avoid their deformation.

The screwdriver usually has a reverse to unscrew screws or free from jamming.

It can have multiple speeds, overload protection. There are screwdrivers on sale with a drilling function. The main thing that distinguishes a screwdriver from a drill-screwdriver is the presence of a release clutch, which regulates the twisting force, it does not allow deeper than you need to tighten the self-tapping screw.

The difference is also in the holder. If the screwdriver involves the use of a bit of the desired size with a hex shank, then the drill uses a keyless chuck for a round in diameter drill.

The drill, regardless of the presence of adjustment, cannot ensure the accuracy of tightening, as a result, the head of the fastener or the screwing nozzle itself may be damaged.

Most common electric screwdrivers and drills can be powered by mains power and a battery. powerful drills use mains electricity. Especially when it comes to a tool with an impact function, where rotary and reciprocating movements are combined.

When using cordless power tools, the advantage of screwdrivers is obvious. With the same charge and voltage, they show an advantage over a drill. This is determined by their technical parameters, primarily the maximum torque.

Most often, household products have nickel-cadmium batteries. Their peculiarity is that they need to be discharged “to zero” and charged until fully charged.

Find out how a screwdriver differs from a drill

For many works in construction, in production and at home, you need to know how a screwdriver differs from a drill.

This affects the correct organization of work and its efficiency.

Sometimes, these mechanized tools perform operations that, together, ensure the strength and aesthetics of the structure.

What is the difference

Both types of tools are necessary in professional activities and everyday life.

Answering the question, what is the difference between a screwdriver and a cordless drill, it should be noted that the screwdriver has a specific purpose. to tighten and unscrew screws, screws and self-tapping screws.

It is convenient for assembling and disassembling various structures, furniture, wood products, drywall, etc.

Its design allows you to do it quickly and accurately.

The cordless drill also allows for a quick and accurate drilling function.

Both of these tools are good for the tasks for which they were created.

However, with the advent of efficient battery drills with the functions of a screwdriver and a screwdriver with the ability to drill, the difference between them decreases.

The cordless drill requires a torque of up to 20 Nm and at least 1500 rpm.

When choosing the right tool, you should take into account:

  • Battery type and spare
  • Infinitely variable speed adjustment for drilling and twisting
  • Information about the torque that determines the purpose of the tool
  • Convenient regulation of optimum torque.

If we are talking about a professional tool, then the screwdrivers can work continuously for more time. They wear out less.

The comparison of impact and non-impact screwdrivers is presented on:

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Main characteristics

The technical specifications of the cordless screwdriver vary by model, so you should pay attention to certain parameters of the battery:

  • Power: the more it is, the higher the efficiency of the screwdriver (when the charge level decreases, the performance of the tool decreases).
  • Type: nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, or lithium-ion (each is attractive in its own way, differing in price, weight and service life).
  • Capacity: the higher it is, the longer the screwdriver works without recharging, including in extreme modes.
  • Removable: if the non-removable battery is discharged, work will have to be stopped.
  • Torque: Indicates how much force is required for the engine to perform work in contact with material (measured in Newton meters and is not always indicated on the package).

How is a cordless screwdriver different from a screwdriver

When performing repair or installation work in the absence of electricity, a tool powered by a battery will help. However, for many users it remains unclear how a cordless screwdriver differs from a screwdriver.

Design features

The screwdriver body has a strictly defined shape, while cordless screwdrivers are presented in different versions:

  • Straight, ideal for working in accessible areas;
  • L-shaped, the most popular among consumers, relieves the brush when working;
  • T-shaped, easy to use even with a dead battery;
  • Transformer, the most versatile, changing the shape of the body depending on the needs of the user.

The device is simple, on the case there is mainly an on / off button, a mode selection and a charge indicator.

Advantages and disadvantages

An electric screwdriver is weaker than a screwdriver, but its power is sufficient for most household needs. It is compact, lightweight, fits freely in your .

Small dimensions allow using the tool even when working with any medium-sized surface:

  • Computer technology;
  • Children’s toys;
  • Electrician.

The screwdriver motor is weak, low power, low rpm and low torque. Therefore, it will be possible to tighten long self-tapping screws, of course, but the battery will quickly be discharged, and work will have to be stopped: screwdrivers often lack replaceable batteries.

The difference between a screwdriver and a screwdriver is solely in the field of application and the load requirements of the tools.

The difference between a drill and a screwdriver

Tools with equal success drill, screw in screws, punch holes in concrete, stone, brick surfaces. But the existing differences in their mechanisms do not allow us to close our eyes to the features of the first and second home helper. Take at least the screwdriver ratchet, which the drill lacks. The add-on allows you to adjust the force with which screws, screws and screws are screwed in. Conveniently? And how!

Understanding which is better, a drill or a screwdriver, is not easy. It is worth starting from what this or that tool is needed for. Corded drills and screwdrivers are faster, have more power, weight and drill diameter in different materials. Yes, they are more efficient at work, but definitely not more convenient than a light tool weighing 1.2 kg.

For more practical work without mains connection, use cordless tools. If you take cordless screwdrivers and compare them to drills, they are more popular, cheaper and more common. Them “weakness”. power. A power drill, judging by the impressive indicator of this parameter, works much more efficiently.

See also: How to choose a drill

Drill characteristics

For drills, it is important to take into account the rotational speed of the chuck. This is the number of revolutions that the spindle makes around its axis. In the middle segment, most models provide a speed of 4600 rpm. this value allows you to make standard holes for laying communications in everyday life. However, for creating large-format holes, the shock function with vibration impulse is indispensable. For example, if a hammerless power drill allows you to make holes up to 11-13 mm in solid bases, then the vibration effect increases the diameter to 16-18 mm even in the household class. The power potential in general corresponds to the performance of screwdrivers. 250-350 W. In the selection, the emphasis is placed directly on the size of the planned hole. The higher the power, the more possibilities for assembly operations.

General information about the screwdriver

This type of power tool is designed for unscrewing and tightening screws, bolts and screws. The main operational feature of the screwdriver can be called the automatic stop of rotation at the moment when the maximum resistance is reached. That is, when the hardware is twisted to the limit. What is the difference between a screwdriver and a drill in terms of the device of the nozzle? In this case, a bit is used, with the help of which the tool interacts with the screw by gripping its slot like a screwdriver. To work effectively with such a tool, it is necessary to initially select the correct rotation speed. Standard screwdriver models offer 2-3 speeds to choose from. The first maintains a small number of revs, but with a high torque. This is the optimal mode for working with fasteners. Higher rotational speeds are for additional tasks or work with non-standard screws.

Drill

The main function of the drill is drilling. However, if there is an adjustment of revolutions and reverse (and they are now on most models), it can also be used as a screwdriver.

However, they lack any mechanism to automatically prevent bit stripping.

Therefore, here you have to rely only on your hands and head.

On the drill, the verdict will be as follows. Buy it if you are going to mainly drill. But keep in mind that sometimes it can also be used as a screwdriver. after all, it is in any case more convenient than turning with a screwdriver.

Characteristics of screwdrivers

The power of the electric motor is the main indicator of the working potential of a given tool. Household models have a power of 300-400 W, while for professional devices this figure exceeds 1200 W. In battery versions, the power is expressed in volts. for example, the Hammer ACD141B modification is provided with a 14.4 V power unit, and the maximum value for a high-performance tool of this type reaches 42 V.

Torque is also important in terms of fastener handling capabilities. It is expressed in rotational speed (Nm) and can reach 1235 Nm (Makita 6980 FDWAE model). It is worth emphasizing how a screwdriver differs from a drill in this indicator? In this case, the number of revolutions represents the torque limit. It can also be adjusted depending on the size of the screw. For drills, the emphasis is on hole diameter, although the frequency ranges are on average.

Instrument power system

Both screwdrivers and electric drills today are represented by models with a different type of power supply. Traditionally, both categories of tools operate from a conventional outlet. they are lightweight and compact, but depend on access to a power source. over, for a hammerless power drill, compactness and lightness are fundamentally important, since the degree of pressure from the user requires a small.

The presence of a battery pack eliminates the need to connect the device to an outlet, but increases the weight and dimensions of the instrument. As a rule, rechargeable batteries with lithium-ion or nickel-cadmium cells are used as source. On average, cordless drills and screwdrivers can operate autonomously for 45-60 minutes. For ease of use, many manufacturers provide a spare power supply in the kit that can be used while charging the main battery.

Functional support

Modern screwdrivers are equipped with the ability to adjust the torque, backlight, pulse mode and motor brake. What is the difference between a screwdriver and a drill in terms of a functional set? Many safety options and structural mechanisms are similar due to the general principle of creating torque, but for drills, the presence of reverse motion is more important, since the probability of a nozzle sticking increases. Also, premium versions support continuous drilling mode, which may be required when working with problem materials. In this case, you will not need to constantly hold your finger on the start button.

Features of the drill driver

The popularity of multifunctional devices that combine the functions of drilling and twisting hardware is also growing. If the considered tools with one of these functions are designed for serial operation in one mode, then the drill-screwdriver is optimal for the master-generalist, whose activities are related to different technical operations. It is important to keep in mind that the design of a multifunctional device is heavier, more complex and almost always requires battery power, which ultimately affects the decrease in maneuverability. As for the expansion of functionality, for example, the Makita DF457DWE drill / driver is provided with a two-speed gearbox, thanks to which you can point-adjust the torque for different drilling and twisting operations (a choice of 16 steps). To this should be added the presence of a keyless chuck, which allows you to quickly change the attachments.

Screwdriver

The screwdriver can only be used for tightening self-tapping screws, since it has only a hexagonal seat for the bits. Although it should be said that there are also drills with a hexagon fit, like bits, but usually they are only of small diameters, and they are not everywhere on sale.

Thus, for this tool, we conclude that it can only be purchased for tightening self-tapping screws. At the same time, remember that it is tied to the network, which means that it will not work to work with it autonomously.

It is most convenient to use this unit in any assembly workshop, where work is carried out at one workplace to screw in self-tapping screws or screws.

What is a drill

The first drills appeared in ancient times and made it easier to make holes in stone, wood, and other materials. When the electric motor was invented, their capabilities expanded significantly. And with the development of metallurgy and the advent of special drills, they began to make holes in metals and stone with the help of an electric drill. Over time, in addition to production, these tools began to be widely used in the household. Their functions were gradually expanded. Special devices were invented that made it possible to grind various surfaces and polish them.

The invention of abrasive cut-off wheels made it possible to use the drill for small-scale cutting work, primarily on pipes and metal rods. Modern drills are characterized by high power, high rotational speed and ergonomics. For them, various options for drills, replaceable chucks, special nozzles and accessories are made to expand the scope of use. For example, with the help of special nozzles, various building mixtures and paints are stirred with a drill. Drills can have normal and impact modes of operation when you need to drill stone or concrete.

There was a division into a professional tool and one that can be used in everyday life. Professional is distinguished by its reliable design and durability, widespread use of rolling bearings. Its parts are made of heat-treated alloy steels. The body is made of high-strength plastic, the lubrication system is closed.

The drills have acquired a convenient housing shape, which houses the electric motor and their control devices. They had switches, power regulators, impact mechanisms, and other useful devices. It became possible to use drills for tightening and unscrewing screws, screws, self-tapping screws.

Why do you need a screwdriver

Equipping drills with compact rechargeable batteries contributed to the creation of screwdrivers, which opened up new possibilities for carpentry, assembly and other work. They turned out to be especially convenient in confined spaces, when dismantling and assembling wooden and metal structures, installing plasterboard parts.

Outwardly, this tool is not much different from a drill. However, it has been specially designed to work quickly with screw connections, screws and self-tapping screws. There are models that can perform drilling operations. Screwdrivers are designed to provide powerful torque. Here high rotation speed is contraindicated. This is provided primarily by a special gearbox that reduces the speed to 200-300 per minute with a simultaneous increase in torque. Such a gearbox is controlled by a special regulator that sets the force required for tightening without deformation of a screw, screw or self-tapping screw.

To counteract seizure, a reversing device with several speeds is installed, as well as an overload warning system. The screwdriver can be equipped with attachments that allow you to loosen and tighten the nuts. Impact driver drives screws or nuts using a series of moderate, high-frequency impacts.

A special release clutch controls the tightening force. It also stops the cartridge in case of overload. The use of batteries combined with a screwdriver handle made it extremely popular in construction, assembly production, and in the repair of machines and mechanisms. With a replaceable power supply, the screwdriver can operate for a long time, which can be increased with the use of the most advanced rechargeable batteries.

What is the difference between a drill and a screwdriver: features and differences

Among hand-held power tools, the drill and screwdriver are among the most common. They dramatically increase efficiency wherever you need to drill holes or handle screw fastening materials. These electrically powered tools can be powered by an ordinary power grid, compact batteries, compressed air and even gasoline. Rotation in them can be combined with percussion functions.

feel the difference

The drill and screwdriver are good for performing the functions for which they were created. The drill makes it possible to quickly and accurately drill a hole. With the help of a screwdriver, self-tapping screws, nuts, screws and screws are also quickly twisted and unscrewed. At the same time, both instruments have certain differences.

  • The drill holder in the drill is a keyless chuck, for a round drill in diameter. The screwdriver uses special holders designed for the hex tail of the working bit.
  • The drill, even when adjusted, does not provide the correct tightening of the fastener, which can lead to damage to the screw head or the screwing attachment

A special clutch is installed in the screwdriver, which allows you to adjust the force. As a result, the screw or self-tapping screw is twisted to the desired depth.

  • Drills for drilling require a torque of 20 Nm and a speed of over 1500 rpm. A screwdriver only needs 10 Nm and 500 rpm for tightening.
  • Professional drills in continuous operation work less than the same screwdrivers, which wear less.
  • In an electric drill, it is possible to change the rotation speed. This cannot be done in a screwdriver.
  • The electric drill has inertia after it is turned off, which requires increased attention during operation. The screwdriver stops instantly.

What is the difference between a drill and a screwdriver?

Hello! In today’s article I will tell you how a drill differs from a screwdriver, since not everyone understands the difference between them and in the end they do not know what to choose.

To begin with, I propose to define the terms. If we start from the terminology of manufacturers, then screwdrivers they call the device shown in Figure 1. This is a network screwdriver with adjustable rotation speed, reverse, and also having a device, thanks to which it is possible to avoid breakage of the nozzle splines (bits).

Picture 1

And the manufacturers call drills both the machine shown in Figure 2 and the devices shown in Figure 3 and 4, which are popularly called screwdrivers (mains or cordless) or simply screwdrivers.

Picture 2 Picture 3 Picture 4

In order not to get confused, in this article we will assign the following names to each unit:

  • I will call the tool from Figure 1 a screwdriver
  • Figure 2. drill
  • From figures 3 and 4. drill driver.

At the same time, I note that the difficulties of choosing arise precisely between the last two types, since everything seems to be so clear with an ordinary screwdriver. But I will describe all three devices early.

Screwdriver

The screwdriver can only be used for tightening self-tapping screws, since it has only a hexagonal seat for the bits. Although it should be said that there are also drills with a hexagon fit, like bits, but usually they are only of small diameters, and they are not everywhere on sale.

Thus, for this tool, we conclude that it can only be purchased for tightening self-tapping screws. At the same time, remember that it is tied to the network, which means that it will not work to work with it autonomously.

It is most convenient to use this unit in any assembly workshop, where work is carried out at one workplace to screw in self-tapping screws or screws.

Drill

The main function of the drill is drilling. However, if there is an adjustment of revolutions and reverse (and they are now on most models), it can also be used as a screwdriver.

However, they lack any mechanism to automatically prevent bit stripping.

Therefore, here you have to rely only on your hands and head.

On the drill, the verdict will be as follows. Buy it if you are going to mainly drill. But keep in mind that sometimes it can also be used as a screwdriver. after all, it is in any case more convenient than turning with a screwdriver.

Drill driver

This tool is versatile. They can be drilled and screwed, without fear of spoiling the bit or unnecessarily drowning the hat into the material.

There is a customizable mechanism (popularly referred to as a ratchet) through which the rotation passes. When a certain resistance set by you is reached, it simply turns with a click, and the bit remains in place safe and sound.

In addition, the drill-screwdriver differs from a conventional electric drill also in that a gearbox is installed on it, which has a large gear ratio. Therefore, with the same engine power, the drill / driver has a greater torque value. This means that, for example, a power cord drill with a 400 W motor will have the same torque as a 700-800 W drill. However, the dimensions will be smaller.

The price paid for this is the lower number of maximum spindle revolutions. If on drills it reaches a value of 3000 rpm, then on drills their number is no more than 600-800. And if it is two-speed, then all the same, the revolutions will not exceed 1500 per minute.

Thus, we conclude that the drill-driver is a good universal option, since it can perform most of both drilling and screwdriving work.

However, such a tool will not replace a drill for jobs that require high chuck rotation. This is, for example, drilling a brick, when the work takes place in percussion mode. And although there is an impact mechanism on some models of screwdrivers, it is not very effective due to the low speed.

It is also worth remembering that they not only drill with drills, but also, for example, knead mortars using a mixing nozzle. And here, too, high speed is required. Therefore, for such work, a drill driver is also poorly suited.

Separately, it should be said about cordless drills. Firstly, it is drills-screwdrivers that are made with a battery, but there are no classic drills with a rotation speed of up to 3000 rpm with a battery.

Secondly, the use of battery technology has both advantages and disadvantages.

The pluses include the following things:

  • Autonomy of work. that is, the ability to work for a certain amount of time away from power grids with pre-charged batteries;
  • No wires, which is convenient, for example, when working on the roof.

The downsides are the following points:

  • Aging of batteries. with frequent use, they usually last no more than 3 years, and if used rarely, they still age and in any case become unusable after 5-8 years, even if they just lie idle;
  • Impossibility to start work immediately if it suddenly turns out that the batteries are discharged.

These are my thoughts on the matter. I hope that after reading the article, you understand for yourself which tool you need. Let me finish with this. see you soon.!

What is a drill

The drill as a tool appeared a long time ago. Thanks to this tool, it was much easier to make holes in wood and stone. After the invention of the electric motor, the capabilities of such devices have expanded significantly. The metallurgical industry also played a significant role in their development. Special drills appeared. This made it possible to create precise holes in various types of stones and types of metals.

Over time, in addition to production, such power tools began to be used for household purposes. Special attachments have been developed to enable grinding of various surfaces.

When abrasive wheels were invented, the drill was also used for cutting work. Typically this tool function is used to cut pipes and metal rods. The latest models of drills have a sufficiently high power and rotational speed of the drills. The compactness of the devices is also important.

With a wide variety of drills and attachments, drills can be used for a variety of purposes. For example, using special attachments, you can stir different mixtures. Some drills are equipped with a percussion mechanism. Usually they are switched to this mode when working with concrete products or stone.

Over time, such tools were divided into professional and household. The first ones are distinguished by high reliability and durability. They use rolling bearings. Parts of such devices are made of alloy steels that have been processed at high temperatures. To ensure reliable protection of the insides of such instruments, their body is made of high-quality plastic, which is highly durable. Often drills have the function of a punch.

High-quality drills are made in a convenient shape, which allows you to work with them as efficiently as possible. When using such devices, the worker’s hand does not get tired, and all actions are performed as accurately as possible. Drills also have another purpose. unscrewing screws and screws. This versatility often attracts DIYers. To figure out how a drill differs from a screwdriver, you need to take a closer look at the features of each of these tools.

What is the difference between a drill and a screwdriver

During construction work, a screwdriver and a drill are indispensable tools. They are the most in demand among mechanized instruments. Thanks to these devices, work efficiency is significantly increased. They are mainly used for tightening fasteners and making holes. Such devices can be powered by mains or batteries. There are also models that run on gasoline. Rotation in such devices can be supplemented by impact actions. A fairly common option is a drill driver. These tools are versatile. However, the peculiarities of their operation should be understood in more detail.

Why do you need a screwdriver

When drills began to be equipped with batteries, they were often used as screwdrivers. The autonomous use of this type of instrument is very useful when working in confined spaces. You may need a screwdriver for work on the assembly of metal and wooden structures.

What Is The Difference Between A Cordless Drill And A Screwdriver

Such a tool has few external differences from a drill. However, its design is developed specifically for the effective tightening and unscrewing of screw screws, screws and self-tapping screws. There are models of screwdrivers that can be used when drilling various holes. Screwdrivers are designed to relieve torque. When working with screw connections, high rotation speed is not required.

For this purpose, a special device is placed in the device. a reducer. It allows you to slow down to 300 rpm. This increases the torque at the same time. The screw is not deformed at the same time.

To prevent the device from jamming, a special system with several speeds is installed in it, which eliminates overloads. The screwdriver can be equipped with special attachments that allow you to tighten and unscrew various fasteners. Impact screwdriver capable of driving nuts and screws using strong impacts.

When using batteries that are compatible with the handle, the screwdriver is much more convenient to use. Such tools have become quite common in the construction industry. Similar devices are used for assembly work, for car repairs.

Difference between screwdriver and drill

Drills and screwdrivers are perfect for the functions they were designed for. By using a drill, you can accurately and quickly make a hole in a specific material. When using a screwdriver, you can quickly tighten or unscrew nuts, screws, screws.

The differences between these tools are obvious:

  • The drill holder in the drill is a keyless chuck. It is designed for a round drill diameter. Screwdrivers use holders that are designed for hex shank bits.
  • A drill, even equipped with an adjusting mechanism, is not able to ensure the accuracy of the tightening of the fastener. This can damage the screw head or the bit used. A special coupling is installed in the screwdriver, which allows you to adjust the torque. In this case, the self-tapping screw can be easily screwed to the desired depth.
  • In drills for drilling work, a torque of 20 Nm is required. The rotational speed of the drill must exceed 1500 rpm. To tighten the fastener, the screwdriver only needs 50 rpm and 10 Nm.
  • Professional drills operate in a continuous mode for significantly less time than screwdrivers of similar characteristics.
  • In an electric drill, you can change the rotation speed. This function is not provided in the screwdriver.
  • The electric drill is inert. This means that it still works for some time after shutdown. This should be taken into account when performing drilling procedures. Screwdrivers always stop instantly.

All these differences indicate the need to use certain devices exclusively for the tasks for which they were created. Drill driver is the most common device among ordinary users. Its versatility and simplicity attracts DIYers.

Screwdrivers, like drills with screwdriver functions, can be powered from the mains or the built-in battery. The advantages and disadvantages of devices depend on the tasks to be performed. Cordless tools do not take time to charge, and cordless tools can work anywhere.

If you need to choose a high-quality construction tool, you should understand the features of the work of specific models. The market offers a wide variety of both drills and screwdrivers. If the device is needed for household work, it may not have high power or additional functions. You can purchase a universal device, but it will not be able to work continuously for a long time and will be limited in its capabilities.

Professional devices are equipped with a large battery and have many functions. If specific construction tasks need to be performed frequently, it is better to pay attention to a device with specific technical data.