Best Overall
DeWalt DCF680N2 8V MAX Gyroscopic Screwdriver Kit
Runner-Up
Milwaukee 2401-22 M12 ¼-Inch Hex Screwdriver Kit
Best Bang For The Buck
Black+Decker BDCSFL20C 4V MAX Cordless Screwdriver
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Whether you ’re mold on a bicycle , supercede kitchen outlets , putting battery in a child ’s toy , or finish a host of other DIY projects , a cordless screwdriver is a handytoolto tighten and remove screws promptly and expeditiously . Think of a good cordless screwdriver as a less hefty choice to a corded ( or cordless ) practice session .
Cordless screwdrivers do n’t have the tycoon to drive through a lot of impenetrable material , so do n’t plan on building an entire storage shed with one . However , they can be a ripe option for luminance to intermediate jobs like running screw to fall pictures on walls , tightening locker threshold flexible joint , and remove outlet cover charge and switch plates . We ’re bounteous fan of power tools that make DIYers ’ lives easier , and cordless screwdrivers rate the right way up there at the top .
With so many brands andtypes of cordless screwdriversto choose from , it ’s important to bang which 1 would be real assets in a DIYer ’s tool assembling and which one did n’t hold up up to the hype . We tested several of today ’s top - rated screwdrivers to see their torsion great power , overall design , and how effectively they functioned in multiple situations . We put them through their paces , and we did n’t pull any punch — the examination was tight and we tug the tools to their limits . We loved theDeWalt 8V MAX Gyroscopic Screwdriver Kitbest for its 15 - position clutch , gyroscopic trigger , and hopeful LED pathfinder light . Don’t dead reckoning at how well today ’s most popular force screwdriver do . If you ’re in the market for the adept cordless screwdriver , scan on to find out which feature of speech are essential and find out why the following mannikin earned a spot in our lineup .
Our Top Picks
To qualify for a spot in our lineup , a cordless screwdriver had to be simple to function , long-lasting , and have enough torque power to complete casual fastening tasks . Whether built - in or removable , the batteries had to take a charge long enough to get bare jobs done . We tested each tool on wallboard and on two woods mintage , pine and birch rod . While cordless screwdrivers are not generally made for inserting screws into wood , some of today ’s burly models have souped - up power , and we tested them to see which could take on the labor .
After blanket manus - on examination , the follow framework take in a spot on our list of the best cordless screwdriver for a menage or a workshop . They ’re lightweight and compendious enough to salt away in a drawer , hold in a tool knock , and tug to a worksite . Any one of these tools would be an asset in a DIYer ’s prick assemblage .
If the want is for a cordless screwdriver with plenty of lineament and a rock music - square repute , the 8V MAX cordless barrage fire screwdriver from DeWalt is a wondrous option . Like other cordless DeWalt tools , the 8V MAX cordless screwdriver comes with a obliterable battery ( two batteries are included ) . We started by charging the assault and battery overnight to ensure it was at full office for testing . Subsequent charging revealed it took just over an 60 minutes for the battery to extend to a full commission .
The 8V MAX performed well on all our mental test . It has a gyroscopic trigger that spark off the motor with the apparent motion of a wrist joint : Twist the puppet to the rightfulness , it will constrain or drive a screw ; gimmick left , and it will loosen the screw . A two - position hold allows a pick between a shooting iron grip and a straight barrel screwdriver , and two LED to light up a workpiece — a helpful asset .
To keep from stripping out screws , this DeWalt has a 15 - position grasp , which we align to suit the concentration of the boards . It feature a upper grasp of up to 430 RPM , and a torque chain of mountains of up to 40 inch - pound . The ¼-inch chuck fit stock bits , and the lithium - ion stamp battery can be used in other DeWalt 8 - volt cordless prick .
What our tester tell : “ The 8V MAX cordless screwdriver aced all our tests , let in promptly drive screws into drywall , pine , and even denser birch forest without bogging down . ”—Glenda Taylor , mathematical product Reviews quizzer & author
Get the DeWalt DCF680N2 cordless screwdriver atAmazon , orAcme Tools .
Right out of the boxful , the first matter we noticed about the Milwaukee M12 was its weight . At more than 2 pounds ( with battery installed ) , it ’s heavy than many cordless screwdrivers , but it fits nicely in the palm and is n’t too cumbersome for set up multiple screw propeller . It made quick work of inserting gaoler in dry wall , and we were able-bodied to insert screws in both pine and birch boards as well .
The M12 is less about fancy feature film and more about getting the job done . This handgun - grip screwdriver use Milwaukee ’s 12 - V atomic number 3 - ion batteries to produce a mighty peak torque of 175 column inch - pounds . It has an RPM range of up to 500 , which attain plant fasteners immediate work . The 2401 - 22 manikin uses a ¼-inch quick - alteration keyless eats to swap out chip quickly , and it has a 15 - position clutches to avail govern torque . We were also able to switch into drill style to cancel the clutch feature .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
What our tester says:“This cordless screwdriver ’s shelling charges in under 30 minutes with the admit charger , so we were able to get back to work after a short fault . ”—Glenda Taylor , Cartesian product Reviews examiner & writer
Get the Milwaukee cordless screwdriver atAce Hardware , The Home Depot , orBlain ’s Farm and Fleet .
If the goal is to find a light - duty cordless ability screwdriver that wo n’t vanquish screws or a budget , the Black+Decker 4V MAX cordless screwdriver may fill the broadsheet . We were impressed by its various features and even more impressed by its budget - friendly price . While this tool does n’t generate as much torque as some of the picks in our batting order , it still quickly infix drywall screwing . It was n’t as successful with Grant Wood , but that ’s not what this tool is mean to do .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
This screwdriver has a three - stead handle , swapping easily from a true screwdriver to a 45 - level or correct - angle machine driver in seconds . It expend ¼-inch driver flake , so user can swap between bits or use the grub as a ¼-inch nut driver . The screwdriver boasts an lead torch that was unusually bright , making it easy to see in darkened country . The 4 - volt screwdriver issue forth with two moment and a charger . Its 4 - volt lithium - ion battery held a flush well throughout the examination , and this model features a build - in barrage and a round-eyed battery charger electric cord that plugs in now .
Get the Black + Decker cordless screwdriver atAmazon , Lowe ’s , orThe Home Depot .
Best for Drywall
Makita XSF03T 18V LXT Cordless Drywall Screwdriver
This assault and battery - power screwdriver from Makita does only one thing — inserts drywall jailer into wallboard — but it does it well . Unlike the other picks on this lineup , the XSF03 T is a single - purpose tool .
We ’ve instal C of drywall piece of paper over the geezerhood , so we acknowledge that the screws used to bond the jury should create a dimple in the wallboard but not deplumate its protective paper Earth’s surface . The XSF03 T is designed with a depth adjustment that made it sluttish for us to tweak the profoundness of the screw so we could achieve the dimpling effect on different thickness of drywall .
We charged the high - capacity 5 - amp - minute battery that come with the puppet and started testing . With just a few gyration of the depth - allowance ring located on the nose of the tool , the Makita provide more or less torsion to accommodate various drywall thicknesses . The deception to using this ( and all ) drywall screwdrivers is to physically push the tool as soon as the screw meet opposition from the wall stud . When done correctly ( it take some practice ) , the elongated nose on the Makita countersinks the shag head and creates a pregnant chad in the drywall . The dimple will later be fill with compound when tap the walls .
Photo: Amazon
The back end of the XSF03 T is ergonomically design for using a second manus to push with . This dry wall screwdriver had sizeable index for inserting the screws without shoot the paper covering .
What our tester says:“We get it very comfy to use , and we appreciate the brilliant LED templet visible light that made it well-fixed to see where we were inserting screws in low - lightness situations . ”—Glenda Taylor , Cartesian product Reviews tester & writer
Get the Makita XSF03 T cordless screwdriver atAmazon , The Home Depot , orAcme Tools .
Photo: Ace Hardware
Best Heavy-Duty
Bosch PS21-2A 12V MAX 2-Speed Pocket Driver Kit
As shortly as we sneak the charge 12 - V battery in the Bosch PS21 - 2A cordless screwdriver and pulled the trigger , we could tell it offer more torque than most . It has two speed ranges we could shift between by sliding a lever tumbler on the top of the prick . The screwdriver generate up to 1,300 revolutions per minute at top focal ratio , which is quite an acquisition for an automatic screwdriver .
It also packs some powerful torque — and we were able to insert screw with relaxation into drywall , pine , and birch boards . With that much torque , the 21 - adjustment batch is substantive to prevent strip out the screw heads .
In plus to ample torque and speed , this screwdriver is compact , with a head length of just more than 5.5 in . It follow with two 12 - V batteries and a charger . Plus , there ’s a build - in lead spark to help user see in dim placement , but it would be unspoilt if it were brighter . If DIYers require a cordless screwdriver to tackle some heavy - tariff jobs , the Bosch PS21 - 2A ought to do the trick . It ’s a powerful tool in such a small package , weighing in at only 1.4 punt .
Photo: Amazon
Get the Bosch cordless screwdriver atAmazon , Lowe ’s , orMenards .
Best Safety Features
Skil SD561201 4V Screwdriver With Circuit Sensor
Having previously think the power to an outlet was close off only to suffer painful shock , we know the economic value of being capable to test an wall socket in a pinch . So we were pretty impressed with the Skil cordless screwdriver ’s ability to feel if the outlet was still live , just by depress a button on the top of the putz . The Skil breathe a abrupt admonition bleep when we prove a hot outlet , and a reddened light flash . When we tested a dead mercantile establishment , there was neither a ignitor nor a beep . This build - in safety feature is a boon for those who do n’t typically carry electrical testers around while doing DIY projects . This thick cordless screwdriver boast a dual - LED light , 10 changeable bits , and a micro USB charger . The chuck accepts any ¼-inch drive bit and also purpose as a ¼-inch en driver . It has both forward and reverse , but no adjustable clutch or swiftness setting . While it enter piece of tail effortlessly in drywall , it bogged down when endeavor to infix screws in woodwind instrument instrument panel . Still , it ’s so valuable at feel circuits that this cordless screwdriver could be reserved solely for electrical maintenance jobs .
Get the Skil 4V cordless screwdriver atAmazon , Menards , orAcme Tools .
Best for Assembly
DeWalt DCF682N1 8V MAX Gyroscopic Inline Screwdriver
The DeWalt 8 - volt MAX cordless screwdriver was the very first of the screwdrivers we test , and we were not yet familiar with its gyroscopic technology . At first , it seemed counterintuitive , but now , it ’s one of our favored features .
Here ’s how the gyroscopic effect knead : Line up the tool with the piece of tail that will be inclose or remove . Then squeeze the trigger , which will stimulate the prick to pass off a hum . Next , either rotate the tool to the right or the left field . When rotated to the right , the screw turn also turns to the right to insert a piece of ass . When rotated to the leftfield , the bit turnabout and twists to the left to remove a screw . It ’s that simple — no need to force buttons to change directions . We learned to increase or decrease the speed just by go around the tool more or less . The screwdriver ’s grub accepts ¼-inch snatch and running game on a rechargeable 8 - volt DeWalt battery ( include ) . It bring forth up to 430 RPM and comes with a bright direct guide light . Its consecutive barrel - type bag makes it promiscuous to reach box where a pistol bag might be too ill-chosen . The ability to master the screwing mechanism just by rotating the tool makes it well suitable to assembling prefab bookcases , cabinet , and more .
Get the DeWalt inline cordless screwdriver atAmazon , orLowe ’s .
Photo: Amazon
Best for Household Use
Makita DF001DW 3.6V Lithium-Ion Cordless Screwdriver
For all those picayune household fixing chores , such as installing mercantile establishment and switch plate , tightening storage locker or draftsman screw , or hang pictures on a bulwark , we think this lightweight Makita screwdriver is just the ticket . At just 3.6 volts , this little cordless screwdriver is design for light - duty applications , and it surpass in that capacity .
Rather than requiring the substance abuser to murder a battery , the DF001DW has an internal shelling that turn on via a USB cord that can be plugged into a computer ’s USB larboard or a standard retail store using the include AC adapter . We tested the DF001DW by slip in and removing screws in drywall and woodwind instrument . It get along with an ample 81 - while accessory set self-praise bits for most types of screw fasteners used today , let in Phillips , flat , and whizz bit . Plus , the pecker has an light-emitting diode templet luminosity that can be turned on when desired ( it does n’t mechanically outride on when the screwdriver is in function ) .
The DF001DW also convert from a shooting iron grip to a straight - drum grip , prepare it even more versatile . It weighs less than a pound so it did n’t slow us down — yet it offered ample mogul for inserting and removing screws , even in wood , without the pecker ’s motor bogging down .
Photo: Amazon
Get the Makita 3.6V cordless screwdriver atAmazon .
Also Consider
Amazon Basics by Skil 4V Cordless Stick Screwdriver
TheAmazon Basics(formerly Denali ) screwdriver does n’t boast many bell and whistle , but it did appropriate us to prefer from one of three torque options . We found that handy when infix jailer into material with different densities — for illustration , more torsion when insert jailer in wood than in soft drywall . It also features an light-emitting diode guide brightness , but we found it to be dim and unlikely to offer much illuminance in low - light source billet .
The screwdriver charge via a USB - 100 cord ( included ) . We liked this setup , as it simplifies charging — no pauperism to slay and charge the electric battery severally . A succinct tool measuring about 7 inches long , it was useful in restricted smirch , but we would have liked a transformable grip . A barrel grip is splendid in some situation , but a convertible shooting iron clutch would add versatility .
The only tangible downside we note was that this model tended to bog down down a little when we inserted nookie in wood . It did the job , but it took longer than it did on drywall . Still , this is a handy little cordless screwdriver to have around the business firm or to keep in the automobile trunk of a elevator car for when modest jobs arise .
Photo: Amazon
Get the Amazon Basics cordless screwdriver atAmazon .
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Tested the Best Cordless Screwdrivers
consumer have come to look a lot from national stain such as DeWalt , Milwaukee , and Bosch , but we need to expand our examination to cordless screwdriver from a variety of manufacturers . All producer list their tools ’ strong points , but unless the products are in person test , it ’s unmanageable to know if they live up to the claims .
We essay every available purpose on each tool , include screw holders and light guides , and we scored each one using a rubric . While not every cordless screwdriver came with a souped - up 8- or 12 - V battery , we sure as shooting apprise the added torque . Each tool was also rated on the brightness of its guidebook lights , how the creature gibe and felt in the hand , and whether it was truly user - friendly . DIYers have dissimilar needs and budgets , and any one of the pick in our lineup would be an asset to a tool collection .
What to Consider When Choosing a Cordless Screwdriver
While drills can be a bit clumsy , a slim cordless screwdriver can fit into tight spot . And because it works quicker than its manual herald , a cordless screwdriver will assist keep a labor on track . It can also reduce weariness and benefit anyone with carpus or manus mobility issues — after all , wrick a articulatio radiocarpea back and away with a schematic screwdriver can become a real pain .
With a manual screwdriver , your handwriting can get in the line of visual sensation , making it challenging to see what you ’re doing and potentially stimulate the screwdriver to slip off holdfast . This is n’t a job with a cordless role model . Plus , because it ’s lightweight and does n’t ask an outlet to punch into , it ’s perfectly portable . A cordless screwdriver is a handy thickset tool that can be toted anywhere . Keep these and the following considerations in mind while shopping so you ’ll be better capable to choose the model that beneficial fits your needs .
Speed and Torque
The more power a cordless screwdriver has , the faster it can twist . While cordless screwdrivers do n’t require the amount of power that a exercise number one wood or an impact driver might have , they still want enough juice to get the caper done . If purchase a unbowed barrel - character driver , debate one with a speed between 300 and 500 RPM — ideal to loose or tighten a screw quickly without being too fast to handle . With side arm grip models , speeds of more than 1,000 rev are loose to keep in line .
The more torque your screwdriver has , the denser the material that it can drive a fastener into . Heavy - obligation screwdriver have an increase amount of torque usable and may be suited for driving a few drywall jailor into wood studs , but this can drain the barrage fire chop-chop .
Maneuverability
A cordless screwdriver can reach and control screws in little , awkwardspacesmuch more easily than a manual tool can . If there is way for the tip of the number one wood to go onto the fastener , these powered screwdrivers facilitate do the rest period .
To accommodate into such tight lieu , the secure cordless screwdriver is highly maneuverable . A slim , compendious design help , and many exemplar also have rotating handles that swap from a straight hairgrip to a side arm handle , like those seen on drills and piece of tail hit man . Also , a lowly battery size makes cordless screwdriver easier to gather between board and other low - clearance scenarios , such as behind sink for plumbing tasks .
Power Source
Many cordless screwdriver follow with rechargeable batteries , and they tend to range between 4 and 8 volt . Since a cordless screwdriver requires much less speed and power than a practice session , these lower voltages are adequate . The welfare of a smaller humbled - electromotive force battery is that it fits in smaller places than full - size options , and it help make the rechargeable screwdriver as low-cal as potential .
Some gloomy - end screwdrivers use replaceable batteries . These mannequin are less convenient , not to bring up expensive , if interchange batteries frequently . They usually have less mogul and torsion as well .
Battery Life
If there is a large project fall up , it ’s helpful if a cordless screwdriver has enough power to see it through to the end . Luckily , battery life story is n’t much of a business concern for most of the good cordless screwdrivers because their pocket-sized motors do n’t use as much battery energy as a large motor does .
However , some cordless screwdrivers have a battery story indicator that alerts drug user when it ’s campaign low on power . It ’s helpful to sleep with the battery condition so it can be juiced up while on a lunch or supply - range break , as many typically reload in about an hour .
Screw Type
Cordless screwdrivers tighten or loosen ass in prethreaded trap . They ’re perfect for screws in electric boxes and fixtures , turnkey used in automotive interiors and convenience , installing door whorl and locker computer hardware , and other mechanical preferences with threaded holes .
Except for the most heavy - duty electric screwdrivers , these tools are not typically project for retardation screws and bolts , woods nookie , and fasteners in other slow material . While it ’s possible to drive a screw through dry wall with one of these tools , that ’s simply not the type of job these tool are made to tackle . For this spot , grab a drill or animpact driverinstead .
Chuck Size
Cordless screwdrivers use toolless chucks , so swapping between bits is quick and gentle . These chuck fit ¼-inch bits — the same bits used in received multi - bit manual screwdrivers . There are also ¼-inch - driveway practice bits , permit a screwdriver to be used as a recitation in light - obligation stuff like thin wood or plastic .
The variety of ¼-inch turn available make cordless screwdriver fabulously utile . Alternate from driving Phillips head fuck to removing Allen or Torx screws in second . Most cordless screwdrivers use magnet to hold the bit in position while also providing a bit of magnetism to keep the screw on the end of the chip .
Clutch
The clutch in fastening putz regulates the amount of torsion applied to a fixing . Once the dictated torsion is reached , the clutch bag will start to “ slip , ” preventing the tool from driving the fastener or drilling any deeply . Just adjust the clutch according to the type of fastener and the type of material . Since this is billet specific , the rule of thumb is to set the clutch to a low place setting and increase lento as needed .
Too much torsion can break smaller , old , or low-down - timbre fasteners . Fortunately , the best cordless screwdrivers have adjustable clutch configurations to avoid divest or breaking these fasteners . The clutch can also ward off overdrive the screw too deeply , which may also induce undesirable consequence .
Torque setting can make a pregnant divergence when working with old , stubborn fasteners . Instead of pluck the head teacher off turnkey or stripping the fastener beyond recognition , the clutch will begin to dislocate , foreclose the driver from carry on to turn and causing terms .
Photo: Amazon
Not all cordless screwdriver have adjustable clutches , though . Some do n’t have the superpower to require one . However , higher - end screwdriver with more torsion unremarkably do .
The Advantages of Owning a Cordless Screwdriver
By the time a project with a lot of assembly is finished , your forearm and hand might be commonplace from using a manual screwdriver . Lesson learned : To forgo bridge player and arm fatigue , foot up a cordless screwdriver , which may also economize energy and time , allowing you to move on to the next project .
Being able to see what you ’re doing is key to a quality finished project . If your hand keeps bugger off in the way of a task , the tool may slip off the screw , marring the surface or scratch the workpiece . Cordless screwdrivers lease user see what they ’re doing since a hand wo n’t blockade the view .
or else of carrying several screwdrivers around in a creature boxful or tool belt , it can be easier to tote just one cordless manakin . Since the bits are leisurely to trade , a completebit setcan reduce the overall weight unit and free up space in a smash for other shaft . It ’s much easy to carry one cordless screwdriver with eight crest than eight freestanding screwdrivers .
Photo: Amazon
Tips for Using the Best Cordless Screwdriver
A cordless screwdriver is a shaft that many gain for again and again for a legion of different tasks . Here are a few way to get the most assistance from this ready to hand tool .
Being able-bodied to see what you ’re doing is primal to a quality finished project . If your mitt keeps getting in the path of a task , the tool may drop away off the piece of tail , deflower the airfoil or excise the workpiece . Cordless screwdrivers let users see what they ’re doing since a hand wo n’t block the view . Instead of carrying several screwdrivers around in a tool box or tool belt , it can be easy to tote just one cordless fashion model . Since the mo are easy to swap , a completebit setcan slenderize the overall free weight and free up blank space in a belt for other tool . It ’s much easier to carry one cordless screwdriver with eight pourboire than eight freestanding screwdrivers .
FAQs
There ’s a lot to consider when take a young cordless screwdriver , so there may be some lollygag questions . If you ’re still question about the ins and out of cordless screwdriver , tick out these answers to some commonly necessitate questions .
A cordless screwdriver is a battery - operated tool that tightens and loosens screws with a motor and a trigger or else of using the drug user ’s hand top executive .
Cordless drill for DIYersaccept several drill bit sizes with adjustable eats , while cordless screwdriver only swallow ¼-inch bits . Also , cordless drillstend to have more adjustability in terms of upper to tolerate oil production into unlike materials accurately and expeditiously .
Photo: Amazon
There are a few slightly dissimilar methods to operating a cordless screwdriver , but here is a general usage guideline:1.Choosethe right bitand place it in the chuck.2 . Adjust the direction you require to drive the gaoler ( reduce or loosen ) with the switch on the screwdriver.3 . sit down the minute completely into the head of the screw.4 . Maintain pressure on the fastener and squeeze the trigger .
Cordless tools with higher voltages are for sure more powerful , but that power comes at a cost . They consider more and are less compact than lower - voltage options . For cordless screwdrivers , 4 to 8 volts is usually sufficient , peculiarly for unclouded - duty tasks .
It depends on how often you ’ll apply them and the tasks you most oftentimes perform . They can save quite a scrap of clip and effort and can increase your efficiency , all at a typically affordable price .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
Why Trust Bob Vila
Bob Vila has been America ’s Handyman since 1979 . As the emcee of beloved and innovative TV series include “ This Old House ” and “ Bob Vila ’s Home Again , ” he popularized and became synonymous with “ do - it - yourself ” rest home improvement .
Over the course of his decades - longsighted career , Bob Vila has helped zillion of people build , renovate , hangout , and survive better each day — a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice . The Bob Vila team distills need - to - have intercourse information into projection tutorial , maintenance template , tool 101s , and more . These family and garden experts then thoroughly research , veteran , and commend products that back up householder , renters , DIYers , and professional in their to - do inclination .
Meet the Tester
Glenda Taylor is a ware quizzer and author specializing in twist , remodeling , and real estate . She and her married man own a cosmopolitan catching company , and she is have in both residential and commercial construction applications . She test a wide range of index peter as well as other home improvement , household , and lawn - and - garden ware .
Additional enquiry render by Tom Scalisi .
This Is the Year for a Kitchen Renovation
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
Whether you ’re betray or staying , everyone can get something out of a kitchen update . Learn why we consider this renovation the Most Valuable Project of 2025 and how to stay on budget .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
