Drywall screw guns are special devices that help you install drywall as quickly and effectively as possible. Some people may confuse them with drills, but they are very different.
A drywall screw gun combines a drill and an electric screwdriver. They spin faster than drills and produce less torque, but they are chiefly designed not to ruin drywall, unlike drills.
A special collar makes it possible to set the desired depth of your drywall. You can then drive the screw quickly and effortlessly, while the screw gun will stop immediately it reaches the precise depth, to prevent damages.
In this drywall screw guns review, you’ll get a list of the top guns in the market. Plus, you’ll also get a buying guide that shows you what to consider when choosing.
In this post:
- Drywall Screw Gun Buying Guide
- How To Use a Drywall Screw Gun
- 10 Best Drywall Screw Guns Reviewed
- 1) DeWalt DCF620B (Best 4,400 RPM)
- 2) Makita XSF03Z (Best 4,000 RPM)
- 3) DeWalt DW255 (Best Corded 5,300 RPM)
- 4) Milwaukee 2866B-20 (Best Auto-Start)
- 5) DeWalt DCF6201 (Best Collate Magazine)
- 6) Senco DS332-AC (Best Corded Auto-feed)
- 7) DeWalt DW272 (6.3-Amp)
- 8) DeWalt DCF622B (Adjustable Torque)
- 9) Makita FS6200 (Super Fast 6,000-RPM)
- 10) Hitachi W6V4 (Powerful & Cheap)
- Conclusion
Drywall Screw Gun Buying Guide
Once you’ve decided that you want a drywall screw gun, it’s important that you understand the major features that set each one apart from the other.
Following is a list of these features, plus a closer look at each one. Understanding them will hopefully help you to make the right choice.
1) Different Types of Screw Guns
The first major difference between screw guns is their power source, and they are the cordless and the corded types. As you’ll see, no type is completely better than the other because they each have their advantages and disadvantages.
– Cordless Drywall Screw Guns
Corded power tools are the latest trend, but things are slightly different when it comes to drywall screw guns. The first reason is that cordless guns are heavier than corded ones and you want your gun as light as possible here.
Another reason is the price. Corded screw guns are costlier than their corded counterparts and you’re often being offered only the bare tool, without a battery or other accessories.
Of course, cordless guns offer you the freedom to work wherever you want, especially in places without electric power. But if power is available, then nothing beats a corded drywall screw gun for steady power and dependability.
– Corded Drywall Screw Guns
So long as you can find a socket to plug it in, a corded drywall screw gun is your best bet for a fast and efficient job.
They are lighter, cheaper, and their power never wanes because of low battery, a problem that even the best battery drywall screw guns have.
The only downside is that you’ll always need an outlet to connect to.
2) Motor
Another major difference is the type of motor that drives it and this usually boils down to brushed and brushless motors.
Brushed motors have been around for centuries, while brushless motors use more modern technology.
The problem with brushed motors is that its brushes eventually wear out, while brushless motors don’t wear out because they don’t use brushes.
Brushless motors are also more efficient (up to 90%) than brushed motors (up to 80%), and this means that brushless motors produce more force from the same power level than a brushed motor.
Initial brushless motor costs are higher due to the commutating device that it needs to work.
But you get a longer-lasting and quieter electric motor, which is worth its price.
3) Speed
Drywall screw guns spin at faster speeds up to 6,000 RPM. This is about twice faster than the average for drills, although drills produce more torque.
Some premium screw gun models come with variable speed and clutch control. This allows more screw size and material variety if you need it.
4) Depth Gauge
Depth gauge and the setting is what sets the drywall screw gun apart from other hand tools. This depth setting lets you set the exact screw size for a flush installation.
The problem with drywall is that if the screw gets in too deep, then you’ll possibly ruin the drywall.
So, knowing just how far to go and working as quickly as possible is what screw guns are all about.
5) User Friendliness
You want a screw gun that is generally user-friendly or easy to understand and use.
If you want more convenience, then you can choose the automatic models that come with nail strips that load automatically, making your job easier and faster.
6) Weight
Being the last issue here doesn’t make a screw gun’s weight any less important.
You simply don’t want a gun that’s too heavy, especially when there’s plenty of work to do. So, keep it as lightweight as possible.
How To Use a Drywall Screw Gun
Using a drywall screw gun is easy, very fast, and convenient.
The usage steps are nearly identical for all drywall screw guns, but there will be differences between manual- and automatic-loading types.
Following is a 4-step process for getting the best out of any drywall screw gun.
Step 1. Setup
First things first. You should keep in mind that the exact screw gun that you choose will affect the way you do your work.
Heavy guns will get you tired quickly, while manual ones are slower than automatic loaders.
The first step is to get your gun and accessories ready.
This includes making sure your cordless gun batteries are fully charged or finding the right power outlet for a corded gun.
Step 2. Loading
This is the time to load your gun if you’re using an automatic system or to get your nails ready if you’re using a manual gun. Read the screw gun’s manual if you have to.
Step 3. Depth Setting
Following the manufacturer’s instructions, adjust the gun’s depth to fit the job at hand. You may need a test run to confirm that you’ve got the right setting.
Step 4. Shoot & Repeat
To screw drywall in place, first, position the drywall exactly the way you want it.
Then hold your screw gun exactly where you want to insert the screw, then press the trigger.
The screw will now get screwed into the drywall to precisely the depth that you set.
Feel free to adjust the depth if there’s the need, or simply continue with the installation.
10 Best Drywall Screw Guns Reviewed
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES |
|---|---|---|
 | 1. DeWalt DCF620B (4,400 RPM Cordless) |
|
 | 2. Makita XSF03Z (4,000 RPM Cordless) |
|
 | 3. DeWalt DW255 (Corded 5,300 RPM) |
|
 | 4. Milwaukee 2866B-20 (Auto-start) |
|
 | 5. DeWalt DCF6201 (Collated Magazine Attachment) |
|
 | 6. Senco DS332-AC (Corded Auto-feed) |
|
 | 7. DeWalt DW272 (6.3-Amp Corded) |
|
 | 8. DeWalt DCF622B (Adjustable Torque) |
|
 | 9. Makita FS6200 (Super Fast with 6,000-RPM Speed) |
|
 | 10. Hitachi W6V4 (Powerful & Cheap Corded) |
|
1) DeWalt DCF620B (Best 4,400 RPM)
Photo: DeWalt
- Speed: 4,400 RPM
- Power: 20 Volts
- Weight: 2.7 pounds (without battery)
DeWalt is one of the best brands around when it comes to power tools. So, it’s no surprise that this offer, which is one of the best compact drywall screw guns, is from them.
It’s a very ergonomically designed gun and it weighs just 2.7 pounds without the battery. DeWalt also uses a brushless motor to deliver as much power and durability as possible.
Keep in mind that it’s just the bare tool. So, there’s no battery or charger in the pack. It’s also one of the pricier cordless screw guns.
If you want it anyway, then you can enjoy DeWalt’s 3-year warranty on it, the 4,400 RPM no-load speed, and LED lighting for easier work in dark conditions.
Note: DeWalt also offers a magazine attachment for this gun, with part number DCF6201.
Pros:
- Ergonomic drywall screw gun
- Features a reliable brushless battery
- Includes LED light and belt hook
- Backed by a 3-year warranty
Cons:
- You can get cheaper screw guns
- The battery isn’t included
2) Makita XSF03Z (Best 4,000 RPM)
Photo: Makita
- Speed: 4,000 RPM
- Power: 18 Volts
- Weight: 2.6 pounds
Makita is another reliable brand when it comes to power tools. Always innovating, the company included many of its impressive innovations in this screw gun.
It’s ergonomically designed, very lightweight, and includes an LED light, a 3-stage battery gauge, a lock-on button for continuous use mode, and a precise and reliable adjustable nose piece to offer consistent screw depth.
Like the DeWalt offer above, this one is just the bare tool and includes no battery. You can either share batteries with your other Makita tools or choose between Makita’s 2.0-Ah and 5.0-Ah battery packs.
Still, this Makita gun is one of the best cordless drywall screw guns on the market. It delivers speeds from 0 to 4,000 RPM and comes backed by a 3-year warranty as well.
Pros:
- Cordless drywall screw gun from Makita
- Uses a brushless motor to deliver 4,000 RPM
- With built-in LED light and magnetic bit holder
- Makita backs it with a 3-year warranty
Cons:
- It’s only the bare tool, the battery is not included
- You can get other cheaper offers
3) DeWalt DW255 (Best Corded 5,300 RPM)
Photo: DeWalt
- Speed: 5,300 RPM
- Power: 8 Amps (120 Volts)
- Weight: 2.6 pounds
Cordless screw guns are costlier than the corded ones. So, this corded offer from DeWalt offers you a high-quality and powerful tool at a great price.
You get an 8-Amp motor, which generates no-load speeds up to 5,300 RPM. Then, there is the large 2-finger trigger for convenience, and an easy-to-use depth setting.
Although it’s one of the cheapest drywall screw guns out there, it also comes with heat-treated gears for extra durability and DeWalt includes a 7-ft long power cord.
Keep in mind that it doesn’t come with a brushless motor like the offers above. But, if you are on a budget and need a powerful drywall screw gun, then this is a good one.
Pros:
- High-powered gun with 6 Amps and 5,300 RPM
- Ergonomically designed and lightweight
- Includes heat-treated gears for durability
- It comes with a 7-ft long cable
Cons:
- The warranty is only for one year
- It comes with a brushed motor
4) Milwaukee 2866B-20 (Best Auto-Start)
Photo: Milwaukee
- Speed: 4,500 RPM
- Power: 18 Volts
- Weight: 2.5 pounds
Ergonomically designed with balance and lightweight in mind, this screw gun fits beautifully into the hand and delivers up to 4,500 RPM from its brushless motor.
It also features an auto-start mechanism that automatically starts the gun on any contact with drywall. This saves energy and provides up to 3 times longer run time.
For the downsides of this offer, the first is that it’s a bare tool, so there’s no battery or charger in the package. It’s also costlier than the average corded screw gun.
Milwaukee, however, has a dedicated collated magazine for this gun. So, although it costs extra, it combines with the auto-start feature and Milwaukee’s bold 5-year warranty to make this one of the best-collated drywall screw guns out there.
Note: Milwaukee offers a collated magazine for this gun with the art. #49-20-0001
Pros:
- Delivers 0 to 4,500 RPM of no-load speed
- Lightweight at just 2.5 pounds
- Features automatic starting
- Backed by Milwaukee’s impressive 5-year warranty
Cons:
- This offer is for the bare tool without battery and charger
- It’s still costlier than corded screw guns
5) DeWalt DCF6201 (Best Collate Magazine)
Photo: DeWalt
- Weight: 1.3 pounds
DeWalt also offers a collated magazine attachment for its drywall screw guns. This automates the screw loading process and speeds up job completion, especially with large projects.
In addition to easily driving screws with a single hand, you can also change screw sizes and driving depth to fit your project at any time. Screw length adjusts from one to two inches and the magazine releases with a single button click.
DeWalt lists it as an accessory for its cordless drywall screw guns only and not for the corded gun. So, do your homework first if you want it.
Pros:
- Collated magazine attachment
- Works with most generic screw strip brands
- Allows tool-free screw length adjustments
- Easy attachment and disassembly
Cons:
- It’s not a screw gun
- Works only with select DeWalt screw guns
6) Senco DS332-AC (Best Corded Auto-feed)
Photo: Senco
- Speed: 2,500 RPM
- Power: 6 Amps
- Weight: 5.68 pounds
Senco presents the best drywall screw gun for your money here. It comes with two nose pieces that let an operator switch it between a drywall gun and a screwdriver for wood.
The highlight, however, is that it comes with an automatic screw-feeding system, which you had to additionally buy for the earlier offers in this review. This makes it a very attractive deal.
It’s a corded system with 6-Amp power consumption and lots of torque. It also features a variable speed trigger, with a lock and a reverse feature as well.
If you can overlook its brushed motor with its slightly slower 2,500-RPM speed, then this is a versatile tool that’s truly worth its very attractive price. It also comes with a storage bag and two bits.
Pros:
- Affordable screw gun with auto feeder
- Works for drywalls and wood
- Handles screw lengths up to 3 inches
- Backed by a 3-year warranty
Cons:
- It’s slower than most other screw guns
- The motor is a brushed type
7) DeWalt DW272 (6.3-Amp)
Photo: DeWalt
- Speed: 4,000 RPM
- Power: 6.3 Amps
- Weight: 3.1 pounds
For those who want a corded and powerful drywall screw gun that’s dependable, DeWalt has this DW272 to offer. It comes with a 6.3-Amp motor with no-load speeds up to 4,000 RPM.
It comes with an easy to adjust nose-piece and soft-grip rubber handles for your convenience. Also, with a weight of just 3.1 pounds and its ergonomic design, you can easily work with it for extended periods without fatigue.
Although it comes with a brushed motor, DeWalt includes a metal gear housing and heat-treated steel gears for durability, then also backs the package with a 3-year warranty.
Pros:
- Corded drywall screw gun
- Ergonomically designed and lightweight
- Comes with a rubber soft grip
- Backed by a 3-year warranty
Cons:
- It has a brushed motor
- You don’t get the freedom of a cordless gun
8) DeWalt DCF622B (Adjustable Torque)
Photo: DeWalt
- Speed: 2,000 RPM
- Power: 20 Volts
- Weight: 2.8 pounds
Up to this point, all the screw guns in this review haven’t offered any clutch to set their torque output. So, DeWalt offers this DCF622B with its Versa-clutch system.
It allows you to select how strong or soft you want the screw gun’s output. This either prevents damage to softer materials and fasteners or provides the needed torque to drive through tougher materials.
To get this working, its speed gets reduced to about 2,000 RPM and it includes an LED light for working in dark areas. All these features combine to make it able to work on materials from drywalls to metals.
There’s no battery in the package, and you can, of course, get cheaper drywall offers. But if you want the best drywall screw gun for handling other materials as well, then check out this offer.
Pros:
- Drywall screw gun with adjustable torque
- Delivers speeds up to 2,000 RPMs
- Includes Versa-clutch to protect items
- DeWalt backs it with a 3-year warranty
Cons:
- It’s a bare tool without battery or accessories
- It’s also a relatively costly screw gun
9) Makita FS6200 (Super Fast 6,000-RPM)
Photo: Makita
- Speed: 6,000 RPM
- Power: 6 Amps
- Weight: 2.9 pounds
One big plus that corded screw guns have is their affordable prices. Makita offers you this FS6200 with impressive features at a low and attractive price.
It comes with a 6,000-RPM motor, that’s specifically designed for framing and hanging applications. It’s also lightweight at just 2.9 pounds, and it includes an LED light for nighttime work.
You can easily adjust and lock its screw depth for a convenient and efficient work-flow and Makita backs it with a 1-year warranty. The package includes a Philips bit and a magnetic bit holder.
Pros:
- Drywall screw gun with 6,000 RPM no-load speed
- Easy to adjust screw depth
- Very lightweight at just 2.9 pounds
- Backed by a 1-year Makita warranty
Cons:
- It’s corded, so not as flexible as corded guns
- Uses a brushed motor, so not as durable as brushless guns
10) Hitachi W6V4 (Powerful & Cheap)
Photo: Hitachi
- Speed: 4,500 / 6,000 RPM
- Power: 6.6 Amps
- Weight: 3.1 pounds
If price matters a lot to you, then here’s the Hitachi W6V4 drywall screw gun. It’s the cheapest on this list and is available with either 4,500 or 6,000 RPM speeds.
Hitachi backs the lower cost 4,500 RPM model with just a single year warranty and the costlier 6,000-RPM version with a 5-year warranty.
Another issue is that Hitachi has changed its name to Metabo HPT, so you’ve got a Metabo W6V4 on sale that’s exactly like this screw gun, only that it comes with a different brand and it’s also about $10 cheaper.
Pros:
- Powered by a powerful 6.6-Amp motor
- Available in 4,500 and 6,000 RPM versions
- The body is a soft elastomer for tight grips
- Backed by a 1- or 5-year warranty
Cons:
- Brushed motors aren’t very durable
- You don’t get the freedom of a cordless screw gun
Conclusion
We’ve come to the end of this drywall screw guns review and you’ve seen all the impressive and exciting offers out there, from the very cheapest to premium offers and full packages.
It’s you alone that knows exactly what you need or can easily afford. So it’s left for you to choose the screw gun that’ll best suit you.