Although the cordless screwdriver is an often overlooked tool that’s frequently upstaged by cordless drill drivers and impact drivers, it’s a very useful tool that deserves consideration in just about anyone’s toolbox or garage. It’s especially useful for homeowners who may not need anything more complicated than this simple-to-use tools.
How these tools perform is usually a function of their quality, however. The best cordless screwdriver will be able to perform a number of important jobs and are durable and easy-to-charge. That’s why I went ahead and took the liberty of finding out the best cordless screwdriver tools that are currently out there and ordered them from number ten to number one.
10. Workpro 3.6-Volt Screw Gun With Charger
At first glance, it’s pretty easy to mistake this tool for a glue gun. It has that compact style to it. However, in reality, it’s a battery operated screwdriver. This unit only weighs about a pound and is the right size for working on smaller projects. It has a 1.3Ah lithium-ion battery which can be charged quickly and provides a good amount of run-time. This unit also has an LED indicator that shows whether it’s in forward or in reverse, and it has a built-in LED light that cast light on the work area. This makes this tool ideal for hobbyists, DIY’ers, and homeowners.
9. Black & Decker LI3100 Compact Driver
This compact driver is designed to deliver power when the user needs. It can be used for everything from tightening a screw on a doorknob to unscrewing an old towel bracket. This 3.6-Volt unit delivers up to 180 RPM, more than enough power for driving screws. And it’s powered by a lithium-ion battery that provides a good run-time is easily charged with its charger. Another great feature which can be found in this tool is a universal handle that’s soft and easy-to-hold and allows for a full-hand grip. It is also equipped with a reverse/forward indicator bar.
8. Black & Decker AS6NG
Powered by 4 AA batteries, this tool is designed for simplicity above everything else. While it does have enough power to tighten screws for hanging pictures, screwing down outlet covers or for installing mini-blinds, it doesn’t have the heavy-duty power that many people look for in a battery-powered screwdriver. However, what it lacks in power it makes up for in ease-of-use. It has a lightweight design that fits nicely into most people’s hands and can be switched to manually screwing, if necessary. It also has a peg hole that allows it to be hung on a pegboard and has a forward/reverse switch.
7. Black & Decker PD600 Pivot Plus
This tool charges quickly and delivers to its use good power. It has two different speeds, high speed for drilling holes and a low speed for tightening screws down. This unit also has an integrated LED light that casts light on the work area so that the user doesn’t have to work in the dark. With a 23-position clutch, which prevents stripping, and a pivoting handle that locks in three different positions, this tool is also very easy-to-use. This unit comes with hex-shank screw driving bits and a compatible charger. It’s a screwdriver that’s good for around the home use.
6. SKIL 2354-07 iXO 4V Max Lithium-Ion
This model is a good tool for light around the home use or for craft projects. It has a lightweight design that fits nicely in the hand and doesn’t result in hand fatigue like some larger screwdrivers. It also has a USB charger which allows it to be charged using a phone or car charger or even by connecting it to a laptop computer. It uses a 1.5Ah lithium-ion battery and has a small light which illuminates the area before it. This unit also has a battery gauge which allows the user to see exactly when it needs to be recharged. In conclusion, this tool might be small, but it can deal with screws easily.
5. Black & Decker 4-Volt Max Lithium-Ion BDCSFL20C
This cordless tool is not only a screwdriver but is also a flashlight as well, which makes it a 2-in-1 tool that could be useful in just about any home. This unit has a three position pivoting handle that allows it to be used in different positions and makes it useful for getting to screws in hard to reach areas. At moments when a screwdriver isn’t needed, this tool can still be used as a flashlight for use during power outages. With a compact and lightweight design, this unit is also easy to handle and won’t fatigue the user’s hand in the same way that other tools do.
4. SKIL 2354-01 iXO 4-Volt Max Lithium-Ion
This palm-sized screwdriver has quite a few features which make it a useful tool for use around the home or garage. It provides 4-volts of max. power, which is enough power for completing tasks such as driving in screws to hang pictures or for assembling furniture. It has a LED work light which keeps the work area well lit and it also has an LED indicator which lets the user know whether the screwdriver is set in forward or reverse. And all of these features are in a tool that’s compact and lightweight and very easy to use on a regular basis.
3. Hitachi DB3DL2 3.6-Volt Dual-Position Kit
With 21 different clutch settings, a built-in LED light, a spindle lock, and a dual-position handle, this screwdriver can handle just about any job around the home. It can be used for installing light sockets, putting together furniture or working on hobby projects. It also comes with a 3.6-volt battery charger which charges it 1.5Ah lithium-ion battery. Its battery is designed to give three times the battery life of traditional batteries and do it without weighing a ton. This unit also comes with two lithium-ion batteries, a Phillips driver bit and a hard case.
2. Milwaukee M12 Pistol Grip
This tool is designed to get the job done without exceptions each and every time. It has a pistol-grip design which makes it easy to hold and it has 15+1 clutch settings that deliver 175 inch-pounds of torque and up to 500 RPMs. It’s approximately 6.5-inches long and weighs around 2-pounds, so it’s easy-to-use and won’t overly fatigued the user’s hand. This screwdriver also has built-in battery gauge and variable speed control. This tool also has a quick-change chuck which allows for one-handed bit changes. This makes this a perfect tool for both homeowners and professionals alike.
1. DEWALT 7.2-Volt DW920K-2
Delivering 80 inch-pounds of max. torque, this 7.2-volt cordless model is designed to deliver power for just about any task. It has a durable heavy-duty construction, variable speed control, and adjustable two-position handle that allows it to be used as a pistol-grip screwdriver or as an inline screwdriver. This tool is powerful enough to be used for professional applications but is also easy enough to be used by just about anyone. And since it has a lightweight design, it can be used on a regular basis without causing the user’s hand to cramp up. This tool is usually sold with two batteries, a charger, and box for easy tool storage.
Cordless Screwdriver Guide
Before you find the right cordless screwdriver for you, it is important to consider your needs. What are you going to be using it for and how often? A lot of people buy them with extensive DIY in mind whereas others need something a little more high-quality to use it for work.
Also, think about the type of materials you will be working with to make sure you have the power to get the job done easily. Whatever you are going to use an electric screwdriver for, there are plenty to choose from, so make sure you know what to look for. Our guide will help shed some light on these useful tools.
Electric Screwdriver vs Impact Screwdriver
Electric screwdrivers are more compact and better for light work such as hanging pictures around your home. They aren’t going to help you get any heavy-duty DIY done but offer a good option for the casual enthusiast or for assembling flat-pack furniture.
On the other hand, an impact screwdriver is a more serious piece of equipment and is better for general building work. For any professional, it is an important tool and carpenters or anyone drilling through harder woods and concrete, and impact screwdriver will get the job done. They provide their own force which helps you get bigger jobs done.
What To Look For In A Cordless Screwdriver
Battery Life
This depends on the type of work you are doing but it is one of the main things to look for in a cordless screwdriver. It is no good having to recharge the battery every 30 minutes as when you have your mind set on a task, you want to get it done without being at the mercy of the battery life.
Lithium-ion batteries generally have a better lifespan and can be charged many times before they lose some of their capacity. The longer the battery life the better but also make sure the charge time isn’t too long.
Torque
Thi is how much force it applies when twisting and is measure in Newton Metre (Nm). Look for something around 5 or above as the general range spans between 3 and 10. Looking for the maximum of 10 isn’t always beneficial as it can drain battery life so look for a balance that works for what you need to use it for.
No Load Speed
This is how fast a cordless screwdriver can turn without a load. When it is working against the resistance of a material it will not be able to turn at such a speed but the higher the number, the better it will be at getting through tougher surfaces.
For more accuracy, start at a low speed then increase it as you see fit.
Comfort
When using a cordless screwdriver for longer periods, you are going to need to make sure it is comfortable. The shape of the handle should have a bit of grip and will sometimes feature grooves to fit your fingers in with ease. Some have ergonomic designs and importantly, handles that aren’t too big.
Chuck Size
In general, a cordless screwdriver will have a chuck capacity of up to 6.35mm. This means it can hold bigger drill bits increasing the compatibility it has with different bits. As a general rule, the above maximum capacity will be fine for most people undertaking DIY around the home.
LED Lighting
One of the perks of modern cordless screwdrivers is the additional features they offer such as LED lighting. This makes tasks much easier as even when you are working in the day, extra lighting to help you focus on the specific area is a great help. Anything that can increase accuracy is great for when you are working later in the day.
What Should My Cordless Screwdriver Come With?
Bits
Most cordless screwdrivers come with their own set of screwdriver bits which means you are good to go as soon as the battery has charged. They will often come in a range of sizes and heads which can be used for different jobs around the house.
Rechargeable Battery
Some products only take standard batteries but for added convenience, it is always good to make sure yours comes with a rechargeable battery pack and charger. Some will even come with a spare battery so you are never caught short.
Instructions
Because every screwdriver is different, even experienced DIY experts will need to consult the manual from time to time. You need to know how long to charge the battery upon the first use and always read the safety instructions before using any power tool.
