Which screwdriver is better to choose for home use

Sources of tension. a lot depends on them

Cordless screwdrivers use three types of power supplies: lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium and nickel-metal hydride. Each has its own merits and demerits. The main criteria for choosing are:

frequency of tool use;
required power;
possibility of battery repair.

Li-Ion batteries are used almost universally in all off-chain instruments. They can withstand 3 thousand discharge-charge cycles, are lightweight, and have no memory effect. But they are relatively short-lived, especially with occasional use, and are sold at a high price. They really do not like full discharge and recharge, therefore advice: Li-Ion is suitable for instruments that are in constant use. It is desirable to have a discharge indicator, which will inform about the approach to a state critical for the battery. Self-discharge is almost not felt: for a year of storage, the loss of capacity is no more than 20%.
It should be discharged up to 15%, charged by 90%. it will last more than three years, which the manufacturer promises. If you charge and discharge three times in a row, the battery will expand its maximum capabilities.

Nickel-cadmium batteries have a charge-discharge resource half that of Li-Ion. They are able to work with correct operation for 5 years, they are not afraid of frosts and, most importantly for home needs, low prices, which ultimately significantly affect the cost of the tool. It takes a very long time to charge, not less than an hour, more, in comparison with others, the weight makes the device heavier. In terms of capacity, the characteristics are average: 2 A / h. Self-discharge very quickly during storage.

Memory to the charge also does not add positive properties to them. This means that if you charge an incompletely discharged battery, the capacity will decrease as much as it has not been discharged. But this situation is fixable. full discharge and the same charge prolongs the service life. It should be kept completely discharged, if it was not possible to discharge it during operation, connect a light bulb or turn on the standard backlight, which is present in most models. Even after long-term storage, they are easily restored.

Nickel-metal hydride batteries are not widely used in screwdrivers, the charge-discharge cycle is small: less than a thousand. They cost more than cadmium, but the dimensions are smaller. They have a high specific capacity. There is practically no memory to charge, they self-discharge quickly enough. If the battery has not been used for a long time, it should first be discharged and then fully charged. Keep charged. Does not tolerate low temperatures, in winter you can only work in a heated room.

The characteristics indicate the capacity and voltage. The ampere-hours of capacity indicate the ability to work for a certain amount of time. the higher the number, the longer it works. Most low-cost models have 1.3 Ah batteries. On such a battery, work of average complexity can be performed for at least three hours. A spare battery can be charged in an hour or less, so you don’t have to stand idle. Battery voltage indicates the strength you can get from the instrument. Voltage in various models from 10 to 24 volts.

If you plan to use the tool infrequently, it is better to choose Ni-Cd or Ni-Mh. saving money and decent battery life. For frequent use over many hours, Li-Ion batteries are the choice. They are lightweight, which is convenient for constant work, and quickly charge. Why not take them for work from time to time? The point is the design, they are designed for constant use. Their service life is shorter, and they are much more expensive.

Ease of use. dimensions and ergonomics

Let’s say right away. if you use a screwdriver occasionally for several minutes, this point does not play a special role: even working with the most inconvenient tool, you will not have time to feel fatigue. Another thing is use in professional activities or for major home repairs. There is a contradiction: if the device is light and small, your hand does not get tired of it, you can get to the most inconvenient places. But screwing a self-tapping screw, especially into a hard material, is sometimes difficult, and with heavy such problems do not arise.

This is one of the most common flaws of many manufacturers. The control buttons are usually conveniently located, the gearshift is usually on top of the case. Sometimes you can find an inconvenient location of the reverse button. On one of the Makita models, it is small and so close to the palm of the hand that switching takes some time, while on other instruments it is a matter of seconds.

Important characteristics. what to look for

The appearance of a screwdriver is an important indicator, but nevertheless, you should choose a tool based primarily on technical indicators. They will allow you to understand what operations the device can handle, what it is intended for. The torque requires special attention. the force developed by the tool, the unit of measurement is N / m. Simple household screwdrivers have 10-15 N / m, better. 24 N / m, which is quite suitable for the home. A torque of 30–36 N / m will allow drilling tiles, above 36. metal and wood, tighten long. up to 70 mm. screws. To hand self-tapping screws up to 100 mm, you will need over 40 N / m.

The torque value determines the maximum size of the screw or drill. The higher the indicator, the easier it is to drill a hole, tighten the self-tapping screw. But strength is not always decisive, in some situations it is unimportant and can even harm. Too high an indicator of torque can damage the splines of the self-tapping screw, drive it to an excessive depth. If the screwdriver has a clutch for adjusting the torque, such problems can be avoided.

Another indicator from the area of ​​technical characteristics is the frequency with which the spindle rotates. It is regulated by the force of pressing the trigger: the stronger the press. the more revolutions. The indicator affects the ability to drill a hole or screw a screw into a dense material. For self-tapping screws, 400-500 rpm is enough, for drilling. 1200-1400 rpm, a professional device is capable of reaching 3000 rpm. At lower speeds, larger holes can be drilled without fear of engine damage. It is especially convenient to have a two-speed gearbox. At the first low speed they work with screws, at the second they drill.

Some tools have three speeds, which makes them even more comfortable, faster and more precise. At the first speed, they have a good indicator of torque, and at the third speed they can reach 3 thousand, which is equivalent to a power drill.

An important indicator is the type of cartridge. They meet:

key. clamping with a special key;
quick-clamping. fastening the tool by hand;
hex. the tool is attached directly to the spindle.

In the key chuck, the tooling is fixed with cams. The key is used to tighten the nut on the chuck, the cams are brought together in the center and clamp the working equipment. It is not very convenient, you have to spend some time to open it, change the equipment and secure it with a key. But it fixes reliably, which is especially important when working with hard materials.
Keyless chucks can be single-sleeve or double-sleeve. On a double-sleeve, when changing equipment, one hand holds the chuck so that it does not rotate, and the other turns the ring, securing the bit or drill. It is not very convenient, both hands are busy. In a single-sleeve chuck, you can change the tooling with one hand. It does not need to be held with the other hand, the spindle lock works, it is the most convenient for work. Some models have quick-release chucks. The tooling is installed directly into the spindle, you can do without a chuck.

The weight of the tool also affects its performance. Cordless screwdrivers with the same technical characteristics are always heavier than mains ones due to the batteries. Lightweight will never have good power. The reason is in the engine: due to the high power. more weight. If you plan to use a drill-driver for drilling, a powerful massive apparatus is required. For self-tapping screws, it is inconvenient, the hand soon gets tired, it is better to stop at a light, albeit less powerful tool.

Decided to buy. the brand matters

For home use, the Russian Interskol is perfect. Inexpensive, high-quality performance. The view is a little intimidating, large in size, but works well. The price is within reasonable limits, simple installation work is performed flawlessly. Some Makita and Hitachi samples are the same cost.

American instruments are not popular. Apparently, the service pumped up, it is not so easy to use the guarantee or to repair it under our conditions. We will tell you about some of the models of the best companies, which will allow you to navigate among the huge number of offers

Bosch GSR 1440-LI, as the name implies, has a lithium battery. It has a two-speed planetary gearbox, the user has the ability to select the appropriate torque. The battery has a protection system, is characterized by the absence of a memory effect, does not lose charge. The model is equipped with a keyless chuck, electronic control, very light, ergonomic, with a robust body. It is convenient to use, the batteries can withstand continuous operation for 8 hours. Some disadvantages are present: tangible vibration of the cartridge, stops very abruptly, the price is slightly higher than it should be for models with similar characteristics.
Makita DF030DWE is capable of driving screws and drilling holes. Two-speed reducer, rubberized body, vibration is hardly felt. Very compact, with electronic speed and power control. Equipped with backlight, lithium batteries charge very quickly. Users note ease of use, but only for short-term use. Long-term work does not withstand.

Home cordless screwdriver

A screwdriver in the house is a thing that a man, if he does not have, then seeks to acquire. The range of models on the market is so wide that it is easy to make a mistake without knowing their features. Let’s try to figure out which one is right for you, based on the capabilities of the screwdriver and your needs.

Cordless screwdriver. types, device, capabilities

The cordless screwdriver attracts with its independence from the mains voltage. It can be used in any conditions, regardless of the presence of 220 V, the wires will not get tangled under your feet. It can be used as a drill, which is a plus in work. It works for several hours, and the second spare battery allows you to avoid interruptions. while one is charging, we use the other.
Among networked screwdrivers, there are very few products that can serve as a drill.

According to the classification, screwdrivers are divided into household and professional. The separation depends on the specifications. Professional screwdrivers work for a long time without overheating under significant loads. Their performance is much higher than that of household ones. The reason is in the design and materials used to make the tool. Each company strives to create a reliable model with a long term of use.

Each device includes two parts: electrical and mechanical. The electrical part includes the engine and its control system. The voltage source is a battery (except for mains), which can be recharged. Mechanical components include:

gearbox, which on some models allows you to select the speed;
torque selection clutch. available in many models;
spindle with cam, keyless chuck or hexagonal socket-holder.

There are concepts such as screwdriver and drill driver. The differences seem to be insignificant, but they are there. A screwdriver is needed in order to turn and unscrew screws for a long time. These are mainly networking tools. They can be used as a drill, but only occasionally if the design of the clamping device allows. often, they do not install keyless chucks, but a socket-holder for a hexagonal bit.

The rotational speed of the power screwdriver allows you to work in conditions of complex and even damaged fasteners. But it is not easy for them to drill holes; such a characteristic is more a disadvantage than an advantage. They usually do not have a speed controller or it is very limited in capabilities. Large dimensions are also inconvenient to use.

Cordless drill / screwdriver is mainly purchased for home use. It is a versatile product with a wide range of possibilities. Does not depend on the mains voltage, you can screw and unscrew the mount, drill holes. A clean screwdriver has more power than a drill / driver and has a higher speed, even with equivalent batteries. Drill driver can work with a bit and a drill.

Additional features are important

Advanced models have additional features, in particular, the kick function. It will come in handy when you have to work with brick or concrete. Not only rotation is performed, but also translational impacts into the material along the axis. Pulse mode is needed to unscrew fasteners with a damaged head. The spindle does not rotate constantly, but at intervals in time, removing the defective screw with jerks.

The presence of a reverse motion or reverse will allow you to unscrew a firmly seated self-tapping screw, pull out a drill stuck in a solid material. Reverse is activated by the button located next to the trigger. The electronics change the poles of the motor connection, it starts to rotate in the opposite direction. Reverse switch in the middle position locks the device to avoid accidental activation.

A well-positioned backlight helps you work in places with poor or no light. The best location is above the battery pack. The illumination above the starting switch is often ineffective, shines poorly or in the wrong place.
Bit holders play an important role, the best of which are magnetic. With them, the replacement of the equipment is very fast. On some models, the tooling is installed directly into the spindle. They are equipped with a quick-release chuck, which is disconnected from the spindle by a special coupling. It is very convenient when you need to constantly change nozzles: installing the equipment directly into the spindle takes a minimum of time.

How to choose a screwdriver for home use

• How to choose a screwdriver for home use
• How to choose a screwdriver
• How to choose cordless screwdrivers

What are screwdrivers and what are they for?

Like any other power tool, screwdrivers come in both professional and home use. Of course, the difference between these types of screwdrivers is not only in price. They have different characteristics and a “set” of different functions.

Such a tool is “twist-boring”. Therefore, with its help you can:
– fasten;
– drill;
– turn out.

Many men know what it is. using a screwdriver to screw plastic skirting boards throughout the apartment or to assemble furniture by hand. This is a rather long and tedious process. In addition, it often turns out that the screw was screwed in “obliquely”, since it is more difficult to maintain the vertical position of a screwdriver than a screwdriver. In addition, usually some screws have a flared head when screwing in / out. And then you have to start all over again.

Most often it interferes with the process of disassembling something. Anyone who has tried what it feels like to unscrew a rusted screw, especially a small one, understands very well that this is far from easy. A screwdriver greatly simplifies this task. He is also capable of performing other “work”. with this tool you can drill any material no worse than using an electric drill.

How to choose a screwdriver for home

Screwdrivers, depending on the method of “feeding”, are of two types:
– with a battery (autonomous voltage source);
– powered from a socket (mains).

In terms of independence from the mains, of course, cordless screwdrivers are preferable. Manufacturers offer 4 types of batteries. When choosing, you need to ask the seller about the following battery parameters:
– capacity;
– voltage.
– charging time;
– how best to store the battery between uses;
– battery weight and dimensions;
– torque;
– number of hours of work;
– rotation frequency.

The “power” of the battery determines what kind of work can be done with the tool. For everyday tasks, about 2 A / h is quite enough. As a rule, the set contains 2 batteries. One of them ensures the operation of the screwdriver, and the second is charged. This time for different types of batteries varies within 15-45 minutes.

The torque determines how hard your tool drives the screws. For home use, approximately 30 Nm will be sufficient. As for the rotational speed, about 500 rpm is more than enough for domestic needs (for household models it varies from 300 to 1300).

The screwdrivers also provide various additional functions, which are also worth knowing about.
Multiple speeds. Naturally, both screwing and drilling at the same speed will not work.
The presence of a striking mechanism. This function can come in handy when drilling brick, concrete.
Pulse mode. This feature is very useful for loosening hard-to-handle fasteners.
Some manufacturers produce backlit instruments. This makes it much easier to work in dark places where there is no additional lighting.

DeWALT DCD777D2T

This hammerless drill / driver is distinguished not only by a well thought-out design and advanced functionality, but also by a striking and memorable design.

The body is made of impact-resistant plastic, and high-quality assembly prevents dust and debris from entering the device.

The screwdriver is battery operated, so the user can work not only indoors with outlets, but also outdoors.

In addition to traditional work with fasteners, the device can be used for drilling holes.

The power of the model is sufficient for making holes in wood and metal, but it is better not to use a screwdriver with concrete, since the engine of the tool can burn out from the increased load.

Specifications:

• weight 1.5 kg;
• chuck diameter 1.5-13 mm;
• maximum number of revolutions per minute 1750.

pros

• bright memorable design;
• two speeds of work;
• high power;
• fits comfortably in the hand;
• there is an auto-brake function.

Minuses

• there is a beating of the cartridge;
• many users considered the cost too high.

How to choose a Dewalt screwdriver?

When choosing a Dewalt screwdriver, several important criteria are taken into account:

• Operational objectives. For domestic use, an inexpensive, medium-power model will be sufficient. Professional builders usually choose more powerful and efficient devices.
• Power. The higher this indicator, the harder the material into which the screws are screwed can be.
• Torque. Another important technical characteristic. The type of fasteners used depends on it. The higher the torque, the longer the screws can be.

Be sure to pay attention to the ergonomics of the product, as well as the presence of the reverse function.

With the help of the latter, the user will be able to remove an incorrectly twisted self-tapping screw or an accidentally stuck bit from the material.

TOP 3 best professional Dewalt screwdrivers for 18 volts

There are a lot of devices for professional use in the Dewalt brand line. Among the huge variety of similar devices, users highly rated three models.

DeWALT DCD791NT

Another successful model of a hammerless drill-screwdriver, which can be safely used both in everyday life and during professional construction and repair work.

The device provides two speeds of rotation of the bit, and there are also separate modes for working with fasteners and drilling holes in wood and metal.

In this case, the user will be able to independently adjust the speed by simply pressing the corresponding button on the case.

For safe use, the manufacturer provides a lock on the power button. There is also a useful reverse function.

When this mode is turned on, the bit begins to rotate in the opposite direction, so the user can easily remove an incorrectly fastened self-tapping screw or a stuck bit from the material.

Specifications:

• weight 1.5 kg;
• chuck diameter 1.5-13 mm;
• maximum number of revolutions per minute 2000.

pros

• sufficient power for domestic use;
• high quality removable brushes;
• suitable for assembling furniture and drilling holes;
• low cost;
• ergonomic handle.

Minuses

DeWALT DCD771C2

One of the most successful hammerless drills on the market today. In addition to the traditional scope of use (work with fasteners), the device can be used for drilling holes.

The user manual states that the screwdriver successfully makes holes in wood and metal, but for concrete its power is not enough, so it is better not to work with this material.

Otherwise, the engine of the device will not withstand the load and will burn out.

The rest of the functionality is standard, and is aimed at maximum user convenience.

There is a reverse function for removing stuck bits, and a keyless chuck, with which the user can quickly change the bit without a screwdriver or other auxiliary tools.

The frequency of rotation can also be adjusted by pressing the corresponding button on the case.

Specifications:

• weight 1.6 kg;
• chuck diameter 1.5-13 mm;
• maximum number of revolutions per minute 1500.

pros

• shockproof plastic of the case;
• affordable cost;
• ergonomic shape of the handle;
• the set includes a convenient storage case;
• optimal power for home and professional use.

Minuses

• not very convenient storage case;
• inconvenient backlight location.

DeWALT DCD701D2

High-quality drill driver from a well-known manufacturer of power tools. The device is powered by a battery, which provides the user with comfortable movement and high autonomy of work.

In total, the tool provides two speeds of work, and a chuck diameter of up to 10 mm allows you to work with a variety of types of fasteners.

In addition, the model can be used for drilling, in particular, metal and wood surfaces. The power of the device is not enough for drilling concrete.

From additional functionality, there is a blocking of the power button.

There is also an electronic speed control, which allows you to adjust the intensity of the device, depending on the type of fastener and material.

To remove an incorrectly fixed self-tapping screw or a stuck bit, a reverse is provided.

Specifications:

• chuck diameter 10 mm;
• maximum number of revolutions per minute 1500;
• battery voltage 12 V.

pros

• adequate cost;
• fits comfortably in the hand;
• ideal for home use;
• the case does not heat up even after prolonged use;
• high-quality assembly.

Minuses

• too large case;
• long backlight off.

TOP 3 Best Dewalt High Torque Screwdrivers

High torque screwdrivers are considered to be more functional because they allow you to work quickly and with a wide variety of fasteners. There are enough high torque screwdriver models in the Dewalt brand line.

DeWALT DCD791P2

High-quality drill-driver from a well-known foreign manufacturer of power tools.

Since the device is powered by a battery, it can be used even in rooms where there is no way to connect to electricity.

In addition to working with fasteners, the tool can be used to drill holes in wood and metal.

For ease of use, a reverse function is provided. With its help, the user can turn on the reverse rotation of the bit to remove a self-tapping screw or a stuck bit.

There is also a smooth adjustment of the rotational speed, there is a blocking of the power button, and the case made of high-quality plastic is resistant to shock and mechanical damage.

We Ranked Every DRILL/DRIVER From Beginner LVL To Expert LVL (What Level Are You?)

Specifications:

• weight 1.7 kg;
• chuck diameter 1.5-13 mm;
• maximum number of revolutions per minute 2000.

pros

• optimal power is great for assembling furniture;
• comfortable handle with an ergonomic shape;
• suitable for long-term continuous work;
• excellent build quality;
• light weight.

Minuses

• noticeable backlash of the cartridge;
• not very high quality plastic case.

Which is better to choose. drill or screwdriver for home: 3 selection criteria

Minor home repairs, nailing shelves and installing paintings. this requires drilling, twisting or unwinding. To do this job yourself and quickly, you need the right tool. For everyday needs, it is impractical to have a lot of different tools, but there should definitely be one thing. It remains to make a purchase decision: drill or screwdriver?

The difference between a drill and a screwdriver

Tools are equally successful in drilling, screwing in screws, punching holes in concrete, stone, and brick surfaces. But the existing differences in their mechanisms do not allow us to close our eyes to the peculiarities 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 self-tapping 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 a mains connection, use cordless tools. If you take cordless screwdrivers and compare them to drills, they are more popular, cheaper and more common. Their “weak point”. power. A power drill, judging by the impressive indicator of this parameter, works much more efficiently.

So choose: drill or screwdriver?

How often do you plan to use the instrument? Lightweight electric screwdrivers have much less powerful, lower voltage motors than most cordless drills. Therefore, they may not cope with the task if they screw long screws with a gap into hard woods. 18- and 20-volt cordless drills can handle almost any screwdriving task. Even a cheap drill is more powerful and more durable than a cordless screwdriver. Therefore, this toolkit is suitable for working with the hardest building materials. Drilling in walls, installation of complex structures in places with electricity. all this is under the power of a drill.

Tip: A screwdriver with less rpm is much better controlled. Therefore, if we are talking about irregular small works, then it is better to choose a screwdriver. It is also more suitable if the work consists solely in screwing self-tapping screws, screws and screws.

Work in places without electricity. To make a couple of holes, it is better to use a cordless screwdriver than a power drill of the same type. For example, the Bort BAB-10 screwdriver, which is powered by a battery, is more convenient and cheaper. it makes no sense to buy an expensive cordless drill for household use.

Comfort level at work. The power of cordless drills is increased by the added weight. Some professional cordless drills weigh up to 3 kg, which makes them tiresome for long periods of time. Less powerful household drills are lighter, but even they cannot compete in lightness with electric screwdrivers, which weigh less than a pound. If the heavy weight and the presence of a wire from the drill interfere with work, then it is better to purchase a cordless screwdriver. He works productively with wood, plastic, metal, precisely screwing fasteners.

Universal drills

In order not to think about the choice for a long time, make a “knight’s move”. The universal tool combines the functionality of both assistants, expanding the range and increasing the efficiency of work. In appearance, it looks more like a screwdriver, but on the ratchet, turn on the jamming mode of the drill connection. and a drill appears in front of you. If you buy an impact attachment, it can do even more tasks.

Drill-screwdrivers by power source are divided into mains-powered and battery-powered.

Price difference

Cost also plays a big role in choosing the perfect home tool. Drills are not only practical and powerful, but also quite budgetary. A particularly optimal option can be chosen from the household range. Their initial cost is quite within the power of every owner.

Tip: Mains powered tools are not so easy to use (more weight, wires), but they quickly cope with work on wood, metal and concrete.

Feature of screwdrivers. work with self-tapping screws, screws and screws. They are not very suitable for drilling. Rechargeable models are convenient to use, but their power will be enough for short and simple work. The price of such a tool is three times cheaper than its decent quality network counterpart.

For small volumes of work, it is better to purchase a screwdriver. If the house is being renovated and you often need to make holes in different materials, along the way to work with fasteners, then a drill is better. This tool is supported by its low cost with normal characteristics. all that is needed for domestic purposes.

Tip: Any tool can be made better with special drills.

To decide what to buy. a drill or a screwdriver. answer the questions:

What kind of work are you going to do (you need a hammer drill or you can do something simpler). The more difficult the task, the more powerful the tool is needed: a screwdriver is suitable for screwing in, and for drilling in concrete. drill.

How often you plan to use the tool (often or from time to time). For minor, rare work with screws and holes, you can use a screwdriver, but for regular work you need a more powerful tool. Long-term work with hard materials under the power of an impact drill and universal drill-screwdriver.

What will be the working conditions (will there be access to power sources). Drills and screwdrivers are battery and mains. If the work on the site is without electricity, then a cordless tool is needed. It is important to remember that power drills and screwdrivers are much more powerful.

As you can see, the choice was not so difficult. the main thing is to ask the right questions and give clear answers to them! This video review will help you assess the situation even more.