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Sometimes, a basic tool doesn’t cut it and is limited by your physical strength and grip. In instances like this, powered alternatives are a brilliant option. These devices use electrical and pneumatic mechanisms to perform challenging tasks. One such product is the impact wrench – similar to a drill, but the head attachment has different pieces used to tighten and unscrew bolts. It can also tackle things like locking nuts on vehicle tyres. If this is something you would benefit from, we have listed seven fantastic options in the below guide.
How We Compared Impact Wrenches
To find the right impact wrenches, we considered multiple factors, including:
- Power Source
- Output
- Ease of Use
- Accessories
Our team planned comparison points and specifically looked for products that would cater to all kinds of needs. We spent countless hours researching, consulting customer reviews and comparing features to come up with this list.
Impact Wrench Reviews
M12 Fuel Stubby (Editor’s Choice)
The flattened front head of this tool and its compact design makes it brilliant for use in tight spaces. As it is a cordless model, you could easily operate it underneath a car, for example. Despite its diminutive stature, the device is still capable of a torque value of up to 250 ft-lbs.
The M12 Fuel Stubby Impact Wrench has some excellent features to boost productivity, like a 4-mode drive control. Moreover, it has an auto-shut-off mechanism, so you should never over-fasten bolts and damage the threads.
The head has a standard square fixture, but you can also attach socket adaptors to deal with various nuts and bolts. At the front, beneath the head, there is also an LED light so you can illuminate dark working areas.
Pros:
- Squashed compact design to use in tight spaces
- Powerful breakaway torque value of 250 ft-lbs
- Four-mode drive control
- Auto-shut-off mode to prevent over-fastening
- Ergonomic handle with a sturdy grip
Cons:
- The battery might not be included
- It could struggle with some tougher automotive tasks
Makita DTW1002Z (Luxury Choice)
This device is incredibly versatile if you need to unscrew or fasten multiple bolt types. You can operate it with standard and high-tensile bolts (M12 to M30 for standard and M10 to M24 for high-tensile). This is complemented by the electronic three-stage power selection for ease of use.
The Makita DTW1002Z Impact Wrench features a high-quality brushless motor that should last for ages. Additionally, it has a decent sound level of 108 dba. When operating it, the variable-speed trigger gives you complete flexibility.
Not only that, but rubber joints between the battery and handle help suppress vibrations and reduce strain on your hands. We also like that it has twin LED job lights underneath the head that help illuminate your workspace. Moreover, the power tool is well-balanced and should allow you to exert the force you need to operate it safely.
Pros:
- Cordless design for greater movement
- Brushless motor for less wear and tear
- Decent sound level of 108 dba
- Suitable for standard bolts from M12 to M30
- It also works with high-tensile bolts at M10 to M24
Cons:
- The battery and charger might not be included
- Some customers may have reported damaged packaging
Einhell 4510040 TE-CW (Best Value)
This product benefits from a brushless motor that should put less strain on the device while giving it more power and allowing you to use it for extended periods. Its cordless design enables full movement and control, even in tight spaces.
The Einhell 4510040 Impact Wrench has a middle handle with a durable grip. When the battery is connected, it is nicely balanced and easy to hold. Additionally, you can toggle an LED lamp on and off if you work in dark areas.
The head has a ½” square drive to tackle a range of tasks, but you also get a 6.35mm hexagon socket adaptor for better flexibility. This product is part of the X-Change family, meaning you can use various batteries from the same brand.
Pros:
- Includes an LED lamp for dark working conditions
- Small and lightweight design for easy operation
- Brushless motor that delivers more power over longer periods
- Part of the X-Change family to swap and change batteries
- Ergonomic soft-grip handle
Cons:
- The bit adapter could be a little short
- The battery life might not be fantastic
Ryobi R18IW3-120S (Best for Ease of Use)
If you have minimum experience with power tools, the simple operation and controls of this product could be ideal. It comes with three-speed settings that are easy to adjust and allow you to use the device comfortably. Additionally, the battery pack fits quickly into the base of the handle.
Not only that, but it has a ½” square drive with a locking pin. As a result, you can easily change the head and fit different sockets onto it. The Ryobi R18IW3-120S is powered by the ONE+ battery system, and therefore, you can use a battery from other ONE+ devices.
We like that it has a high-powered 18V motor that delivers up to 400 Nm of torque. This should be suitable for many tasks, including tightening and removing heavy-duty bolts and nuts. If you are working underneath a car or in dark spaces, the LED tri-beam light is incredibly helpful too.
Pros:
- Part of the ONE+ system for interchangeable batteries
- Three-speed settings for better control
- ½” square driver with locking pin for easy fitting
- It includes a tri-beam LED to illuminate dark working areas
- Capable of 400Nm of torque for heavy-duty work
Cons:
- Some customers may have reported faulty electrics
- The battery could limit the device for some tough tasks
NoCry 20V Cordless (Best for Versatility)
This impact wrench has a powerful 20V 4.0 Ah lithium-ion battery with a fast-charging function. It can be ready to go in under two hours. This trait gives the device a 2700 max IPM rate, essentially as effective as a pneumatic air gun.
The NoCry 20V Cordless Impact Wrench can generate a torque force of up to 400 Nm for loosening and up to 350 Nm for tightening. As a result, it should be able to tackle any DIY job at home, including automobile changes.
We like that you get a comprehensive set containing one battery, a belt clip, a charger, and a durable carrying case. In terms of design, it has excellent balance, and the handle offers a comfortable grip. Lastly, the battery has a power-level indicator, so you know when it is ready to be charged.
Pros:
- Belt clip and carrying case
- Loosen to 400 Nm and tighten to 350 Nm
- Excellent 20V 4.0 Ah lithium-ion battery for longer work periods
- Ergonomic handle for a comfortable grip
- It comes with a fast-charger unit
Cons:
- Some customers might have reported incorrect instructions
- It may not come with any additional sockets
Ingersoll-Rand Air (Best for Low Noise)
The patented quiet technology included in this device means it has an exceptional noise rating and shouldn’t disturb you while working. Aside from this, it has a specially developed motor and casing that significantly improve its longevity.
The Ingersoll-Rand Air Impact Wrench has a fixed square head shape, making it highly compact, so you can use it in tight spaces without too much hassle. Additionally, the maximum torque rating of 520 Nm means it should deal with various tightening and loosening tasks.
The power-to-weight ratio of 1.1kg means that it shouldn’t struggle at all. As an air-powered device, it needs to be connected to a compressor, but this should be easy with the accessible plug at the bottom. Furthermore, it offers superb control with three power modes and a one-handed forward and reverse button.
Pros:
- Excellent power-to-weight ratio to deal with the heavy-duty task
- 520 Nm of torque
- Patented quiet technology for low-noise operation
- Compact design that can be used in tight spaces
- Durable motor and casing for a long-lasting product
Cons:
- The power selector could be a little stiff
- It might not include any accessories
DICN Cordless (Best for Comfort)
If you want to perform various wrench tasks straight away, this package could be a great buy as it includes four sockets – 14mm, 17mm, 19mm, and 22mm. Additionally, you get everything you need, such as a durable carry case, battery, and charger.
The DICN Cordless Impact Wrench is also extremely well-built and has a sturdy chassis, an ergonomic grip, and the 6000mAh battery slots neatly underneath the handle. The positioning of this also means that it is well-balanced.
It has a forward and reverse mode for different tasks, so you can easily tighten and loosen bolts. Furthermore, there is an optional LED light so you can work in dark spaces. In terms of force, this tool is capable of a torque rating of up to 420 Nm.
Pros:
- Powerful 6000mAh battery with a fast charge ability
- Heavy-duty carry case for easy transportation
- Four different sockets included
- Forward and reverse drive mode
- Maximum torque output of 420 Nm
Cons:
- It could be quite noisy during the operation
- The sockets may not fit easily onto the head
How to Choose an Impact Wrench
If you are inexperienced with power tools, you could find the range of impact wrenches confusing. This is understandable as there are many factors to consider. To help clear your mind, we have listed the four main features to look for in the below buying guide.
Power Source
Firstly, you have to look at the power source. These tools are either cordless or corded, and this affects how and where you can use them.
Cordless devices are much more versatile. You can operate them anywhere without worrying about access to an electrical outlet. However, their battery life is limited, and you must wait between charges.
In contrast, corded items give a constant power supply, and you never have any standing time. But you are limited to where you can use them as an electrical socket is needed. Think about which power source you would prefer.
Output
Next, you should consider the output of the device and the force it can apply. This is crucial as it dictates what you can tighten and unscrew.
Typically, the performance is measured in RPM (for the speed) and Nm for the torque. Higher torque is essential if you want to use the tool for tougher jobs.
Ease of Use
How simple the impact wrench is to operate should be given consideration too. This includes things like changing the heads, the trigger function, and options like variable speed and torque settings.
We advise looking at your DIY skills and experience with power tools. You should then be able to assess the features you want and the level of complexity you are comfortable with from an impact wrench.
Accessories
Lastly, what else is included aside from the impact wrench? Ideally, as a bare minimum, you want a selection of wrench heads, too, so you can use your device to screw and tighten various fixtures.
It is also vital that you check if the tool includes a battery and charger or not. This is not always a given, and it can mean extra work and hassle for you to find a suitable matching component.
Summary
Our top pick for the best impact wrench is the M12 Fuel Stubby due to its compact and portable design, excellent controls, and improved safety features. The reduced 4.8” overall length and squashed front section allow you to use it in tight spaces easily. Additionally, it has a brilliant auto-shut-off mode which prevents over-fastening. The 4-mode drive control provides superior flexibility, while a breakaway torque figure of 250 ft-lbs will make short work of most wrench tasks. This cordless device is also convenient to operate with its ergonomic handle.
Paul is the type of person who never met a problem he couldn’t fix. He can always be found tinkering with something in his house, even if it isn’t broken! His tips and tricks are often shared on our site. He’s the one you call when something breaks because he has been known to improvise fixes for everything from leaky faucets to malfunctioning dryers.