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10 Best Makita Impact Drivers

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Makita DTD152ZBL1850 DTD152Z LXT 18v Impact Driver Body with 1 x 5Ah Battery, 18 V Blue/Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,356
Torque
Torque
Delivers powerful performance comparable to more expensive impact drivers.

The Makita DTD152Z LXT 18V Impact Driver is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and powerful tool for driving screws and bolts. It offers a strong torque of 165 Newton meters, which means it can handle tough fastening jobs with ease. Its maximum speed is 2900 RPM, providing enough power for most DIY and professional tasks. The impact driver is battery-powered with an 18V, 5Ah lithium-ion battery, offering good runtime and the convenience of cordless use.

At 1.5 kg, it is relatively lightweight, making it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. The variable speed feature lets you adjust the speed to match the job, giving you better control. The hex chuck size is standard for impact drivers, allowing quick and easy bit changes. One minor downside is that the product dimensions are compact, which is great for tight spaces but might feel small for users with larger hands. Also, delivery restrictions may apply outside mainland UK, so that’s worth checking before purchase.

This impact driver successfully balances power, battery life, and ergonomics, making it a suitable option for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals seeking a dependable tool.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,356
Torque
Torque
Delivers powerful performance comparable to more expensive impact drivers.
#2

Makita DTD172Z 18V Li-ion LXT Brushless Impact Driver – Batteries and Charger Not Included

Rating
9.1
Torque
Weight and Ergonomics
Torque
This impact driver is powerful beyond needs, yet very controllable and lightweight, making it a quality Makita product.
Weight and Ergonomics
This impact driver feels reassuring and weighty, making it the go-to tool for tasks where a larger impact isn't necessary.

The Makita DTD172Z 18V Li-ion LXT Brushless Impact Driver offers solid performance for those in need of a reliable tool for various fastening tasks. With a maximum torque of 180 Nm, it provides ample power for driving screws into tough materials like wood and metal. Its speed of 1100 RPM and 4-stage impact power selection allows for versatility, making it suitable for both delicate and demanding jobs. However, its relatively low speed might be a drawback for those needing faster operation for extensive tasks.

Weighing just 850 grams, this tool is lightweight, enhancing its ergonomics for extended use and minimizing user fatigue. Its slim body design and anti-bit wobbling structure improve handling, especially in tight or awkward spaces, which is a point of convenience for users working in confined areas.

One significant downside is the absence of a battery and charger, meaning additional purchases are necessary before use, which could be inconvenient for users expecting a ready-to-use package. It's essential to note that this model is not compatible with Makita's G-Series batteries, potentially limiting battery options for some users.

The ¼” hex chuck size is standard for impact drivers in this category, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of bits. The tool's battery protection circuit feature is a plus, extending the longevity of the battery by preventing over-discharge and overheating. The Makita DTD172Z is a high-quality impact driver suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals, provided they are prepared to invest in separate batteries and chargers. Its strength lies in its power, ergonomics, and versatility, though users should consider their specific speed and battery needs before purchase.

Rating
9.1
Torque
Weight and Ergonomics
Torque
This impact driver is powerful beyond needs, yet very controllable and lightweight, making it a quality Makita product.
Weight and Ergonomics
This impact driver feels reassuring and weighty, making it the go-to tool for tasks where a larger impact isn't necessary.
#3

Makita DTD153RTJ 18 V Li-ion LXT Brushless Impact Driver Complete with 2 x 5.0 Ah Li-ion Batteries and Charger in a Makpac Case

Rating
8.5
Torque
Speed (RPM)
Weight and Ergonomics
Torque
Screws removed at full speed can become hot enough to cause burns, highlighting the tool's powerful torque and speed.
Speed (RPM)
The impact driver delivers impressive speed and driving power, making screw-driving tasks significantly faster compared to traditional drills.
Weight and Ergonomics
The lightweight and well-balanced design feels natural in hand, reducing fatigue during extended use without sacrificing power.

The Makita DTD153RTJ is a compact and powerful 18V impact driver designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals who need a reliable tool for fastening tasks. It offers a strong torque of 170 Nm, which is quite robust and suitable for driving large screws or bolts with ease. With a maximum speed of 3400 RPM and a brushless motor, it provides efficient performance and longer motor life because brushless motors reduce wear and improve battery runtime.

The tool includes two 5.0 Ah lithium-ion batteries, so you get good battery life and can work longer without frequent recharges. Weighing about 1.5 kg, it is relatively lightweight and easy to handle, which helps reduce fatigue during extended use. The short design makes it handy for working in tight spaces. While it has an adjustable speed and reversible rotation (right/left), beginner users might need some practice to use these features effectively. The included LED light is a nice touch, improving visibility in darker work areas.

This impact driver combines good power, decent speed, and user-friendly ergonomics, making it a solid choice for anyone needing a durable, versatile impact driver for various fastening jobs.

Rating
8.5
Torque
Speed (RPM)
Weight and Ergonomics
Torque
Screws removed at full speed can become hot enough to cause burns, highlighting the tool's powerful torque and speed.
Speed (RPM)
The impact driver delivers impressive speed and driving power, making screw-driving tasks significantly faster compared to traditional drills.
Weight and Ergonomics
The lightweight and well-balanced design feels natural in hand, reducing fatigue during extended use without sacrificing power.

Buying Guide for the Best Makita Impact Drivers

When choosing an impact driver, it's important to consider the tasks you plan to tackle and the features that will best support those tasks. Impact drivers are powerful tools designed to drive screws and bolts with high torque, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications. Understanding the key specifications will help you select a model that fits your needs, whether you're a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast.
TorqueTorque is the rotational force that the impact driver can apply. It's crucial because it determines the tool's ability to drive screws and bolts into tough materials. Torque is usually measured in inch-pounds (in-lbs) or Newton-meters (Nm). Lower torque (around 800-1000 in-lbs) is suitable for light tasks like assembling furniture, while higher torque (over 1500 in-lbs) is better for heavy-duty tasks like driving large screws into hardwood. Consider the materials and types of fasteners you'll be working with to choose the right torque level.
Speed (RPM)Speed, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), indicates how fast the driver can rotate. This is important for efficiency and control. Lower speeds (around 1000 RPM) are better for precision work, while higher speeds (up to 3000 RPM) are ideal for quickly driving screws. Many impact drivers offer variable speed settings, allowing you to adjust the speed based on the task. If you need versatility, look for a model with multiple speed settings.
Impacts Per Minute (IPM)Impacts Per Minute (IPM) measures how many times the driver delivers its hammering action in a minute. This is important for driving screws into hard materials. A higher IPM (over 3000) means the tool can handle tougher jobs more efficiently. If you frequently work with dense materials, a higher IPM will be beneficial. For general use, a moderate IPM should suffice.
Battery VoltageBattery voltage affects the power and runtime of cordless impact drivers. Common voltages are 12V, 18V, and 20V. Lower voltage models (12V) are lighter and more compact, suitable for light-duty tasks and tight spaces. Higher voltage models (18V or 20V) provide more power and are better for heavy-duty applications. Consider the balance between power needs and tool weight/size when choosing the voltage.
Chuck SizeThe chuck size determines the maximum diameter of the bit that can be used with the driver. Most impact drivers have a 1/4-inch hex chuck, which is standard for most driving tasks. This size is compatible with a wide range of bits. If you need to use larger bits, ensure the driver can accommodate them, but for most users, a 1/4-inch chuck will be sufficient.
Weight and ErgonomicsThe weight and ergonomics of an impact driver affect user comfort, especially during extended use. Lighter models are easier to handle and reduce fatigue, which is important if you'll be using the tool for long periods. Ergonomic designs with comfortable grips can also enhance control and reduce strain. Consider how long and how often you'll use the tool to determine the importance of these factors.