10 Best Brushless Impact Drivers of 2023

Photo: dewalt.com

An impact driver is very similar to a cordless drill because both can be used to fasten or loosen screws, bolts, and nuts.

However, impact drivers are built to provide more torque, hitting the driving bit with a hammer-like force in rotation to drive screws easily through sticky situations.

Brushless impact drivers have the additional benefit of running on fast and efficient brushless motors, resulting in smooth functioning.

That said, if you are looking for one, this article covers the best brushless impact drivers that you should consider buying.

10 Best Brushless Impact Drivers – Review 

IMAGE	PRODUCT	FEATURES
	1. DeWalt DCF887D2 (Best Kit)	3 speeds with 3250 max RPM 1/4-inch one-hand loading hex chuck Complete kit 3 work area LED lights
	2. Makita XDT13Z (Variable Speed)	Variable speeds with 3400 max RPM Electronically controlled motor Dual work area LED lights Compact design (5 inches long)
	3. DeWalt DCF887B (With 3 LED Lights)	3 speeds with 3250 max RPM 2000 inch-pounds of torque 3 LED lights with a 20-second trigger delay 1/4-inch hex chuck with a non-slip sleeve
	4. Makita XDT14Z (Fastest)	3 speeds with 3600 max RPM Comfortable rubberized grip handle Quick shift and tightening modes XPT for dust and water resistance
	5. Porter-Cable PCCK647LB (Ergonomical Design)	2700 RPM with 1400 inch-pounds of torque Ergonomic compact design Rubberized grip handle 2 batteries, a charger and a driving bit are included
	6. Bosch PS42BN (Compact & Lightweight)	Compact and lightweight (1.6 pounds) 2 speeds with 2600 max RPM 1/4-inch hex chuck Exact fit insert tray, 2 bits, and a belt clip accessory
	7. Bosch IDH182-01 (Impact Driver & Impact Wrench in One)	2-in-1 impact driver and impact wrench 3 speeds with 2800 max RPM Complete kit Overheat and overload protection
	8. Milwaukee 2750-20 M18 (With Overload Protection)	2800 max RPM with 1500 inch-pounds of torque Advanced overload protection Work area LED light Battery level gauge
	9. Hitachi WH18DBDL2P4 (Triple Hammer)	Triple hammer technology with a third anvil 4 speeds with 2900 max RPM 1832 inch-pounds of torque LED lights
	10. Ridgid R86037 (Affordable)	Affordable 3 speeds with 2750 max RPM Quick eject 1/4-inch hex chuck Ergonomic handle with non-slip grip

1. DeWalt DCF887D2 – Best Brushless Impact Driver Kit

Photo: DeWalt

• Max Torque: 1825 inch-pounds
• Speed: 3250 RPM
• Hex Chuck: 1/4 inches
• Weight: 7 pounds

Starting off the list is DeWalt’s DCF887D2, which comes as a complete kit with the impact driver, two 20-volt 2Ah batteries, a charger, belt clip and carrying case. This ensures you get value for your money.

These 2Ah batteries are quite powerful and deliver more run time with more turning force, in which the impact driver hits up to 1825 inch-pounds of torque for quick and easy use.

The tool is equipped with 3-speed settings for complete control with precision driving, and these are split into 0-1000, 2800 and 3250 RPM (0-240, 1500 and 1825 inch-pounds of torque respectively).

Other features include a 1/4-inch one-handed loading hex chuck that accepts 1-inch bit tips and has a non-slip sleeve and 3 LED lights with a 20-second delay for lighting up your work area. Combined, these features make this the top-rated brushless impact driver in this review.

However, the unit is quite heavy and this might cause hand fatigue when in use.

Pros:

• Complete impact driver kit
• 3-speed settings for complete control and precision driving
• Non-slip sleeve
• 3 work area LED lights with a 20-second delay
• Easy-to-load 1/4-inch hex chuck

Cons:

• Heavy

2. Makita XDT13Z – Variable Speed Brushless Impact Driver

Photo: Makita

• Max Torque: 1500 inch-pounds
• Speed: 3400 RPM
• Hex Chuck: 1/4 inches
• Weight: 3.3 pounds

Makita’s XDT13Z is equipped with variable speed settings with 3400 RPM max (3600 IPM), which make the tool suitable for a wide range of fastening applications.

This is made possible by the tool’s electronically controlled brushless motor, which is designed to automatically adjust the torque and RPM according to the application demands. The motor is also designed to optimize battery energy for longer runtime on a full charge.

More features include a compact design that is only 5 inches long, two LED lights for illuminating the work area, Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) for dust and water resistance and a durable aluminum gear housing.

However, you get no battery or charger included with the product, and you must buy the driving bit separately.

Pros:

• Variable speed settings for handling different fastening applications
• Electronically controlled motor adjusts torque and RPM for different uses
• Compact 5-inch design
• Dual work area LED lights
• XP technology for dust and water resistance

Cons:

• Battery and charger not included
• Driving bit not included

3. DeWalt DCF887B – Brushless Impact Driver with LED Lights

Photo: DeWalt

• Max Torque: 2000 inch-pounds
• Speed: 3250 RPM
• Hex Chuck: 1/4 inches
• Weight: 2 pounds

Just like with DeWalt’s DCF887D2, this impact driver is fitted with 3 LED lights for illuminating your work area. These are activated by pressing the trigger and give you a 20-second delay after releasing to check if the fastening is done perfectly.

Other than that, the driver has a 3-speed variable trigger, which delivers a no-load speed of 0-1000, 2800 and 3250 RPM. This gives you precision control for different fastening applications.

More features include a one-touch 1/4-inch hex chuck that fits 1-inch bit tips and has a non-slip sleeve, 2000 inch-pounds of maximum torque and a lightweight build that only weighs 2 pounds. However, not battery, charger or driving bit is included with the tool.

Pros:

• 3 work area LEDs with a 20-second trigger delay
• 3-speed variable trigger for different fastening applications
• 1/4-inch hex chuck with a non-slip sleeve
• Lightweight
• Relatively high 2000 inch-pounds of torque

Cons:

• No battery and charger
• Driving bit not included

4. Makita XDT14Z – Fastest Brushless Impact Driver

Photo: Makita

• Max Torque: 1550 inch-pounds
• Speed: 3600 RPM
• Hex Chuck: 1/4 inches
• Weight: 3.3 pounds

With a maximum speed of 3600 RPM, Makita’s XDT14Z is the fastest impact driver in this lineup. That said, its performance is split into 3 speeds for precision control, and these are 0-1100, 2100 and 3600 RPM.

Additionally, the tool has a tightening mode that delivers faster tightening for self-drilling screws, while also preventing damages to the screw and workpiece.

Apart from the trigger control, the unit features a quick-shift mode selector, which has an automatic electronic controller that reduces impact and spinning speed before driving the screw. This helps to prevent screw breakage or thread stripping.

Other features include Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) for dust and water resistance, a durable all-metal gear housing and a comfortable rubberized soft-grip handle.

On the downside, this impact driver is sold as a tool only, which means you get no battery, charger or carrying case.

Pros:

• High max speed (3600 RPM) with 3-speed controls
• Tightening mode for fast tightening of self-drilling screws
• Automatic electronic controller for reducing impact and speed to prevent screw damages
• XP technology for dust and water resistance
• Comfortable non-slip rubber grip handle

Cons:

• Carrying case not included
• Tool only. No battery or charger

5. Porter-Cable PCCK647LB – Ergonomically Designed Brushless Impact Driver

Photo: Porter-Cable

• Max Torque: 1400 inch-pounds
• Speed: 2700 RPM
• Hex Chuck: 1/4 inches
• Weight: 2.9 pounds

Porter-Cable’s PCCK647LB is characterized by an ergonomic design, in which it has a compact design that is 14% shorter for fitting easily in your workspace, a one-touch quick-change chuck and a non-slip rubber handle for comfortable use.

Another benefit you get with this product is that it comes with two 20-volt batteries, a charger and a screwdriver bit. This ensures you get all the required components to get to work straight from unboxing, while also giving you value for money.

More features include 1400 inch-pounds of torque and a max speed of 2700 RPM. On the downside, the unit only has a single speed, which gives you less control for precision driving, and no carrying case is included for storing the kit’s components safely.

Pros:

• Ergonomic compact design
• Quick-change chuck for easy bit changes
• Non-slip rubber handle
• Two batteries, a charger and a screwdriver bit as accessories

Cons:

• Only runs at a single speed
• Carrying case not included

6. Bosch PS42BN – Compact and Lightweight Brushless Impact Driver

Photo: Bosch

• Max Torque: 975 inch-pounds
• Speed: 2600 RPM
• Hex Chuck: 1/4 inches
• Weight: 1.6 pounds

If you are looking for a compact and lightweight brushless impact driver, Bosch’s PS42BN is your best bet because it is only 5.5 inches long across the head and weighs 1.6 pounds. This ensures it fits easily on tight spaces and does not cause hand fatigue in long periods of use.

The tool is designed for high precision and control because it features two speeds: high-speed high-torque and low-speed low-torque. These are rated as 0-1200 and 0-2600 no-load RPM, and they make it easy to work on different projects while preventing overtightening.

You also get a belt clip accessory, 2 screwdriver bits and an exact fit insert tray for organized storage. However, no battery or charger is included and the tool only has a maximum torque of 975 inch-pounds, which is not very strong.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design for easy handling
• 2 speeds for precision control
• Includes a belt clip accessory, 2 screwdriver bits, and an exact fit insert tray

Cons:

• Battery and charger not included
• Low torque

7. Bosch IDH182-01 – Impact Driver and Impact Wrench in One

Photo: Bosch

• Max Torque: 1650 inch-pounds
• Speed: 2800 RPM
• Hex Chuck: 1/4 inches
• Weight: 3.75 pounds

Though very costly, Bosch’s IDH182-01 is a 2-in-1 impact driver and impact wrench tool, which has a socket-ready chuck that allows for quick and seamless switching between a 1/4-inch hex to a 1/2-inch square drive for sockets.

The unit comes as a complete set with a charger, two 18-volt batteries, a double-ended impact bit, a belt clip and a carrying case for safe, organized storage.

Safety features are also built-in, which include electronic motor and cell protection for preventing overheating and overloading while 3 speeds give you more control over the fastening process so as to prevent overtightening or damages.

Other features include an ergonomic small grip diameter that is easy to hold and 3 LEDs for illuminating the work area.

Pros:

• Impact driver and impact wrench in one
• Complete set with two batteries, a charger, double-ended impact bit, belt clip and carrying case
• Electronic motor and cell protection prevent overheating and overloading
• Ergonomic small grip diameter
• Work area LED lighting

Cons:

• Expensive

8. Milwaukee 2750-20 M18 – Brushless Impact Driver with Overload Protection

Photo: Milwaukee

• Max Torque: 1500 inch-pounds
• Speed: 2800 RPM
• Hex Chuck: 1/4 inches
• Weight: 3.1 pounds

This brushless impact driver is equipped with Redlink intelligence, which is basically an advanced overload protection feature that ensures tool and battery durability. The unit is equipped with a battery level gauge to show you the remaining charge.

On the front section, this tool features a 1/4-inch hex that is driven at up to 1500 inch-pounds of torque at a maximum speed of 2800 RPM, and an LED light sits just below it for illuminating your work area.

Other features include a relatively compact 5-3/8-inch long head and a relatively lightweight 3.1-pound construction that is easy on the hands. However, no battery or charger is included with this kit, and the tool runs on a single speed, which gives less precision control.

Pros:

• Redlink intelligence for advanced overload protection
• Battery gauge for showing the charge level
• Work area LED light
• Relatively lightweight at 3.1 pounds with a battery attached

Cons:

• Battery and charger not included
• Runs on a single-speed (0-2800 RPM).

9. Hitachi WH18DBDL2P4 – Triple Hammer Brushless Impact Driver

Photo: Hitachi

• Max Torque: 1832 inch-pounds
• Speed: 2900 RPM
• Hex Chuck: 1/4 inches
• Weight: 2.9 pounds

With its triple hammer technology, Hitachi’s impact driver incorporates a third anvil, which delivers stronger driving speed, torque and higher beats per minute (2900 RPM, 1832 inch-pounds and 4000 BPM respectively) with reduced vibration for quiet running.

The tool is also equipped with a 4-stage electronic speed switch that gives complete control and high precision in a wide variety of fastening applications.

Other features include a bright LED light for illuminating the work area and an ergonomic well-balanced design that is also relatively lightweight (2.9 pounds) for comfortable use. On the downside, you get no battery or charger and you must buy the driving bit separately.

Pros:

• Triple hammer technology for stronger and faster performance with minimal vibrations
• 4-stage electronic speed switch gives high precision control
• Work area LED lights
• Lightweight and well-balanced ergonomic design

Cons:

• No battery and charger
• Driving bit not included

10. Ridgid R86037 – Affordable Brushless Impact Driver

Photo: Ridgid

• Max Torque: 2250 inch-pounds
• Speed: 2750 RPM
• Hex Chuck: 1/4 inches
• Weight: 3.5 pounds

If you are on a tight budget, Ridgid’s R86037 is the best option to consider due to its affordability. Despite this, the unit is well-built, featuring an ergonomic grip that is rubber coated for non-slip use.

The tool has work area LED lighting that is activated by the trigger while a one-touch quick eject chuck makes it very easy to remove and install driving bits.

You also get 3 speeds with a maximum of 2750 RPM for precision and control, and a belt clip as an accessory. However, the required battery and charger are not included, as well as a carrying case for organized storage and easy transportation.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Ergonomic anti-slip rubber grip
• Work area LED lights
• 3-speed design for ultimate control and precision fastening
• Easy-to-use one-touch quick eject chuck

Cons:

• Carrying case not included
• No battery and charger

How to Buy the Best Brushless Impact Driver

Photo: Bosch

1. Power

Most brushless impact drivers run on either 18 or 20-volt electrical systems and therefore, you need to buy a battery with the exact voltage rating as the tool if it is not included in the set or if you want to get a battery replacement.

Some varieties even run on 12-volt electrical systems, so you have to check this before getting a battery.

That said, higher voltage impact drivers are usually more powerful but consume a lot of charge per time. This means they will drain the battery quickly. Therefore, if you want an impact driver to use for long periods of time, a low voltage unit is best.

2. Speed

With speed, the higher the RPM, the faster the driver will be when fastening your screws. However, you need to consider torque, which is basically a measure of how powerful the unit is. High torque is ideal for tightening or getting screws through tough and sticky sections.

Another thing to consider is the trigger speed. Some have a single-speed while others have 2,3 or even 4 speeds. These levels cap the top RPM so that you can have more control, especially if you want to slow down the bit as you hit home.

3. Hex Chuck

A hex chuck is a six-sided clamp found at the front of the impact driver that is used to hold the bit. You need to check its size because it needs to be compatible with the bits that you have. Also, it should have a quick ejecting feature so that you can change the driving bit with ease.

4. Handle

For comfortable use, a brushless impact driver should have a rubber handle that is non-slip. This will also ensure you work with high precision because you will be able to hold it steady.

5. Ergonomics

Apart from having a rubber handle, the best brushless impact driver should have a lightweight and well-balanced design that minimizes hand fatigue. A small grip diameter handle should also be considered for comfortable holding.

6. Controls

To make an impact driver more effective and practical, it should have features such as a reverse switch for unfastening screws and a trigger lock in a neutral position to prevent accidental starts. This lock gives you the convenience of storing or transporting the unit with the battery attached.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are quite a number of factors that you need to consider before picking a suitable brushless impact driver that meets your needs. After reading through though, you should have an easier time picking your best brushless impact driver from the ones listed above.