The Ultimate Guide to Buying the Best Electric Screwdriver

Introduction

An electric screwdriver is an essential tool for anyone who loves DIY projects or works in construction or woodworking. With the right electric screwdriver, you can easily tighten or loosen screws, drill holes, and accomplish a variety of tasks that would take much longer and be much harder to complete with a manual screwdriver. In this ultimate guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about buying the best electric screwdriver for your needs.

Type of Electric Screwdrivers

There are several different types of electric screwdrivers, and each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Here are the most common types of electric screwdrivers:

1. Corded Screwdrivers Corded electric screwdrivers plug into an electrical outlet and provide a constant source of power. They are generally more powerful than cordless screwdrivers and are best suited for heavy-duty tasks that require a lot of torque.
2. Cordless Screwdrivers Cordless electric screwdrivers are powered by rechargeable batteries and are generally more portable than corded models. They are best suited for light to medium-duty tasks, such as assembling furniture or hanging pictures.
3. Impact Screwdrivers Impact screwdrivers are designed to provide more torque than regular screwdrivers, making them ideal for tasks that require extra force, such as driving screws into hard materials like metal or concrete.
4. Screwdriver Drills Screwdriver drills combine the functionality of an electric screwdriver with that of a drill. They can be used to drill holes and drive screws, making them a versatile tool for a range of tasks.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Electric Screwdriver

Now that you know the different types of electric screwdrivers, here are the most important factors to consider when choosing the best one for your needs:

1. Power The power of an electric screwdriver is measured in volts. The higher the voltage, the more powerful the screwdriver. If you need a screwdriver for heavy-duty tasks, look for one with at least 18 volts of power. For light to medium-duty tasks, a screwdriver with 12 volts of power should suffice.
2. Torque Torque refers to the force that the screwdriver can exert on a screw. The higher the torque, the easier it is to drive screws into hard materials like metal or concrete. Look for a screwdriver with at least 80 inch-pounds of torque for heavy-duty tasks and 30-50 inch-pounds of torque for light to medium-duty tasks.
3. Battery Life If you opt for a cordless electric screwdriver, make sure to choose one with a long battery life. A battery life of at least 1 hour should suffice for most tasks.
4. Speed Settings Different tasks require different speeds, so it’s important to choose a screwdriver with multiple speed settings. Look for a screwdriver with at least two speed settings: one for high-speed tasks like drilling and one for low-speed tasks like driving screws.
5. Ergonomics The ergonomics of an electric screwdriver refer to how comfortable it is to hold and use. Look for a screwdriver with a comfortable grip and a lightweight design. Some models also come with features like a built-in light or a magnetic tip to make it easier to work in tight spaces.
6. Accessories Many electric screwdrivers come with accessories like drill bits and screwdriver bits. Make sure to choose a screwdriver with the accessories you need for your specific tasks.
7. Price Electric screwdrivers can range in price from less than $20 to over $100. While you don’t necessarily need to spend a lot of money to get a good screwdriver, it’s important to choose a model that meets your needs and is built to last.

Best Electric Screwdrivers on the Market

With so many electric screwdrivers on the market, it can be tough to know where to start your search. Here are some of the best electric screwdrivers on the market, based on the factors we’ve discussed:

1. DEWALT DCF680N2 8V Max Gyroscopic Screwdriver This cordless screwdriver is lightweight and easy to use, with a gyroscopic design that allows you to control the speed and direction of the driver with just a twist of your wrist. It comes with two rechargeable batteries, a charger, and a kit box for storage. The DEWALT DCF680N2 has a maximum torque of 35 inch-pounds and is best suited for light to medium-duty tasks.
2. BLACK+DECKER BDCSFL20C 4V Max Lithium-Ion LightDriver Screwdriver This cordless screwdriver features a compact design and a built-in LED light to make it easier to work in dark or tight spaces. It also comes with a 4V lithium-ion battery, a charger, and a variety of accessories, including a drill bit and a screwdriver bit. The BLACK+DECKER BDCSFL20C has a maximum torque of 35 inch-pounds and is best suited for light to medium-duty tasks.
3. Makita XSF03Z 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Screwdriver This cordless screwdriver is designed for heavy-duty tasks and features a brushless motor that provides longer battery life and more power than traditional motors. It also has two speed settings and a maximum torque of 1,240 inch-pounds, making it ideal for driving screws into tough materials. The Makita XSF03Z is sold as a bare tool, so you’ll need to purchase a battery and charger separately.
4. DEWALT DCF682N1 8V Max Cordless Screwdriver Kit This cordless screwdriver features a compact design and a maximum torque of 115 inch-pounds, making it ideal for light to medium-duty tasks. It comes with a rechargeable battery, a charger, and a kit box for storage. The DEWALT DCF682N1 also has a built-in LED light to make it easier to work in dark or tight spaces.
5. Milwaukee M12 Fuel Surge 12V Brushless Cordless Screwdriver This cordless screwdriver features a brushless motor that provides longer battery life and more power than traditional motors. It also has two speed settings and a maximum torque of 450 inch-pounds, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks. The Milwaukee M12 Fuel Surge comes with a rechargeable battery, a charger, and a carrying case for storage.

Conclusion

Choosing the best electric screwdriver for your needs requires considering factors such as power, torque, battery life, speed settings, ergonomics, accessories, and price. By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be able to select a screwdriver that will help you complete your tasks with ease and efficiency. Don’t forget to also consider the brand’s reputation for quality and reliability when making your final decision. With the right electric screwdriver, you’ll be able to take on any DIY project or professional task with confidence.