
Auto Express recently published an article reviewing the best cordless impact wrenches for 2024. The article highlights the Clarke CIR184LIP 18v 1/2in Drive Impact Wrench as the best overall choice, with its brushless motor, three-speed setting, and excellent instructions. The Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Cordless Brushless Impact Wrench RIW18X-0 is also highly recommended for its high torque and lightweight design. The review also suggests the Sealey 18V 1/2”Sq Drive Cordless Impact Wrench CP650LIHV as a great budget option, although it lacks versatility with only two speeds.
The article further emphasises the convenience of cordless impact wrenches, which offer more power and speed than traditional spanners and sockets without the need for a compressor or untidy airline setup. These tools are particularly useful for car maintenance and DIY enthusiasts, making light work of stubborn fasteners.
Impact wrenches are available in various sizes, with the 1/2-inch size being the most common and suitable for most applications. When choosing an impact wrench, factors to consider include torque, speed settings, battery life, size, weight, build quality, ergonomics, and noise level.
What You'll Learn
Torque and power
Cordless impact wrenches can produce torque outputs of over 250 foot-pounds, with the most powerful wrenches producing up to 1,500 foot-pounds of torque. For most automotive applications, an impact wrench with a torque of 100 to 500 foot-pounds is sufficient, but for heavy-duty tasks like removing rusted axle nuts, a higher torque of around 1,000 foot-pounds may be required.
The torque produced by an impact wrench is directly related to its power. Impact wrenches with higher torque tend to be heavier because they have beefier components that can handle the forces involved in transferring torque. The weight of an impact wrench can give an impression of its build quality and the power it can produce.
When it comes to power, another consideration is the voltage of the impact wrench. Higher voltage generally means more power, but lower voltage tools, such as 12-volt impact wrenches, have smaller batteries, making them more compact and suitable for smaller jobs, working overhead, or in tight spaces. 18-volt and 20-volt tools have more advanced features and capabilities, making them more versatile and easier to use.
In addition to voltage, the amp-hours (Ah) of the battery also affect the power of the impact wrench. Amp-hours refer to the number of amps the battery can discharge continuously for one hour, so a higher Ah number means more power.
When choosing an impact wrench, it is important to consider the tasks you will be performing and select a tool with sufficient torque and power to handle those tasks efficiently.
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Speed and control
When it comes to speed and control, there are several factors to consider when choosing an impact wrench. Firstly, adjustable speed and torque settings are crucial for achieving better control and precision during automotive tasks. Most impact wrenches offer three or four speed settings, allowing users to reduce RPM and torque to prevent over-tightening fasteners or spinning off lug nuts. More advanced models feature automatic modes that slow down the wrench after breaking off a bolt, preventing it from spinning off.
Another aspect to consider is the impact rate or impacts per minute (IPM). Higher revolutions per minute (RPM) help drive nuts and bolts faster, while IPM comes into play as resistance increases, delivering more torque to the drive head. Therefore, a higher IPM can help tackle stubborn fasteners more effectively.
Additionally, the voltage of the impact wrench plays a role in its speed and power output. Higher voltages generally provide more power, making it easier to handle demanding tasks. However, lower voltages, such as 12-volt impact wrenches, offer compactness and manoeuvrability, making them suitable for smaller jobs, overhead work, or tight spaces.
When it comes to size, the most common impact wrenches are 1/2-inch drive models, which offer a good balance between power and versatility. Compact and sub-compact models, on the other hand, have shorter tool heads and are easier to manoeuvre in confined spaces, making them ideal for assembly and disassembly tasks.
Lastly, the weight of the impact wrench can impact its speed and control. Heavier wrenches tend to have beefier components and deliver more torque, but they may be less manoeuvrable in tight spaces. Lighter wrenches, on the other hand, are easier to handle and can provide better control, especially during prolonged use.
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Battery life
The impact wrenches featured in the Auto Express article use batteries with voltages ranging from 12V to 20V. The majority of the wrenches use 18V batteries, which strike a balance between power and versatility. Higher voltage batteries generally provide more power, but they also contribute to the overall weight of the tool.
When it comes to battery capacity, the wrenches in the article are equipped with batteries ranging from 2Ah to 4Ah. Ampere-hour (Ah) is a unit of electric charge that indicates the battery's capacity or how long it can power the device. A higher Ah rating means the battery can store and deliver more charge, resulting in longer runtime. Therefore, a 4Ah battery will provide longer battery life than a 2Ah battery.
It's worth noting that some impact wrenches, like the Milwaukee M12 BIW12-202C, come with two batteries, which can be useful for extending the runtime by swapping them out when needed. Additionally, having a spare battery can be convenient if one battery runs out of charge in the middle of a task.
The article mentions that the Clarke CIR184LIP 18V wrench has a brand-new brushless motor, which can impact battery life. Brushless motors are more efficient than brushed motors, as they generate less heat and deliver more power from the battery to the tool. As a result, a brushless motor can provide longer runtime and improve the overall battery life of the tool.
While the article does not provide specific runtime measurements, it does mention that the Sealey 18V 1/2”Sq Drive Cordless Impact Wrench CP650LIHV features a series of four LEDs that indicate the battery state. All four LEDs were still illuminated after the testing, suggesting that the battery life is sufficient for the tasks at hand.
In addition to the battery specifications, the brand and model of the battery can also play a role in battery life. As mentioned in the article, some brands, like DeWalt, offer a wide range of battery options, making it easier to find a suitable battery and extend the usability of the tool.
When considering the battery life of a cordless impact wrench, it's important to remember that the runtime can vary depending on the type of task, the speed and torque settings, and the condition of the battery. Heavier-duty tasks that require higher speeds and torque will consume more power and drain the battery faster. Therefore, it's always a good idea to have a fully charged spare battery on hand, especially when tackling demanding projects.
In summary, when evaluating the battery life of a cordless impact wrench, it's essential to consider the voltage, ampere-hour rating, and the efficiency of the motor. Additionally, the availability of spare batteries and the compatibility with different battery brands can also impact the overall battery life and usability of the tool.
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Size and weight
When it comes to size, the most common impact wrenches have a 1/2-inch drive, with a square anvil measuring 1/2 x 1/2 inch that accepts 1/2-inch sockets. There are also smaller 3/8-inch and larger 3/4-inch drive models, as well as 1/4-inch and 1-inch sizes. The smaller 1/4- and 3/8-inch sizes are ideal for working in confined spaces and tasks requiring precision. The larger 3/4- and 1-inch sizes are designed for heavy vehicle maintenance, agricultural equipment, or industrial uses.
Among 1/2-inch impact wrenches, there are also variations in tool body size, including full, compact, and sub-compact. Full-size impact wrenches have larger, longer tool heads and beefier internals, resulting in higher torque specifications. They are perfect for removing stubborn, rusted nuts and bolts, but their larger size may limit their ability to fit into tight spaces.
Compact and sub-compact impact wrenches, on the other hand, have shorter and less bulky tool heads, making them more manoeuvrable in confined areas. While they may not match the torque specs of their larger counterparts, they have more than enough power for most assembly and disassembly tasks that the average person might encounter. Their size and capability make them incredibly versatile for a wide range of applications.
Regarding weight, impact wrenches can vary significantly depending on their size, power, and battery configuration. Cordless impact wrenches, for example, tend to be heavier due to the weight of the battery. Heavier impact wrenches can provide more torque but may cause fatigue during prolonged use. Lighter options, such as 12-volt models, offer greater manoeuvrability and are more suitable for smaller jobs or working in tight spaces.
When choosing an impact wrench, it is essential to consider the balance between size, weight, and power. A compact and lightweight design can improve manoeuvrability and reduce fatigue, but it may come at the cost of lower torque specifications. On the other hand, a heavier and more powerful impact wrench may provide more torque but could be more challenging to handle in tight spaces. Ultimately, the best size and weight for an impact wrench depend on the specific applications and user preferences.
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Build quality and durability
When it comes to build quality and durability, there are several factors to consider when choosing an impact wrench. Firstly, it is important to select a well-constructed wrench from a reputable brand to ensure reliable performance and longevity. Impact wrenches are available in different power sources, including cordless, corded, and air-powered options. While cordless models offer convenience and mobility, corded tools provide consistent power. Air-powered wrenches, on the other hand, require a significant investment in an air compressor but offer high torque capabilities.
The type of motor in an impact wrench can also impact its durability. Brushless motors, found in premium impact wrenches, offer improved performance and durability compared to brushed motors. Additionally, the voltage of the wrench is important, with higher voltages generally providing more power. However, lower voltages, such as 12-volt wrenches, offer compactness and are suitable for smaller jobs or working in tight spaces.
The drive size of the impact wrench is another factor to consider. The most common size is 1/2-inch, which is suitable for most applications. Smaller sizes, such as 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch, are ideal for confined spaces and tasks requiring precision. Larger sizes, like 3/4-inch and 1-inch, are designed for heavy-duty applications.
When evaluating build quality, it is worth paying attention to the materials used and the overall construction. A well-built impact wrench should have a sturdy and durable design that can withstand the forces involved in delivering high torque. The grip and balance of the wrench are also important, as they impact comfort and ease of use during extended periods.
Lastly, the durability of an impact wrench is closely tied to its intended use. Compact and sub-compact impact wrenches, while smaller and less powerful, are incredibly versatile and capable of handling most assembly and disassembly tasks. In contrast, full-size impact wrenches are heavier and more powerful, making them suitable for removing stubborn, rusted nuts and bolts.
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Frequently asked questions
An impact wrench is used for tightening and loosening bolts, lug nuts, and rusted fasteners. It delivers high rotational torque that regular drills and impact drivers cannot.
There are three basic types of impact wrenches: air (pneumatic) powered, electrical (corded) powered, and cordless impact wrenches that run on battery power.
Impact wrenches usually come in the following sizes: 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch, or 1 inch. The most common size is 1/2 inch, suitable for most applications.