
If you're looking for an affordable impact wrench, you're spoilt for choice. The best impact wrench for you will depend on what you need it for. If you're looking for something heavy-duty, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench is a popular choice. It's been described as a heavy hitter and is said to have tremendous nut-busting power. However, it is on the pricier side, retailing at $560 on Amazon. If you're looking for something more affordable, the Ridgid 18V SubCompact Impact Wrench Kit is a great option. It's lightweight at just 3.6 lbs without the battery and delivers 500 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 650 ft/lbs of breakaway torque. It's also been described as user-friendly, with an auto-tightening mode that prevents over-tightening. The Ryobi 18V Cordless Impact Wrench Kit is another good option for beginners. It's the lightest model in our tests at just 2.3 lbs, making it easy to use and manoeuvre. It also has a brushless motor, which prolongs its motor life, and it's affordable, with a price tag of just $99 on the Ryobi website.
What You'll Learn
Best compact impact wrenches
When it comes to compact impact wrenches, there are a few factors you'll want to consider before making a purchase. Firstly, it's important to think about the types of tasks you'll be using the wrench for. Compact impact wrenches are ideal for working in tight spaces and completing common assembly or disassembly tasks. They typically have shorter and less bulky tool heads, making them more manoeuvrable. While they may not have the same high torque specs as larger models, they usually provide more than enough power for most jobs.
DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Compact 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
DeWalt's Atomic 20V Max is a powerful yet compact model, measuring less than 5 inches from tip to tail. It features two speed settings and a bolt removal mode that prevents over-tightening and spin-off. With a torque of up to 450 ft-lbs, it packs a punch for its size. It's a great choice for working in tight spaces.
Ridgid 18V SubCompact Impact Wrench Kit
Don't be fooled by its modest size; the Ridgid 18V SubCompact Impact Wrench delivers impressive performance. With a torque of 500 ft-lbs for fastening and 650 ft-lbs for breakaway, it can handle most tasks with ease. The kit includes a 4 Ah battery, charger, and carrying case, making it a convenient option. Its brushless motor technology and auto-tightening mode make it a user-friendly choice.
Ryobi 18V Cordless Impact Wrench Kit
If you're looking for something lightweight and user-friendly, the Ryobi 18V Cordless Impact Wrench is a great option. Weighing just 2.3 lbs, it's the lightest model in its class. It offers three speeds and an auto-tightening mode to help you avoid over-tightening. While it may not have the highest torque, with a maximum of 275 ft-lb, it's perfect for basic tasks. The built-in LED lights make it easy to work in low-light conditions.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 3/8-Inch Mid-Torque Impact Wrench
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel is a compact and versatile option, ideal for tight spaces. With a torque of up to 650 ft-lbs, it packs a punch for its size. It features four mode settings, including a "drive control" mode that prevents over-tightening. The compact body and built-in LED lights make it a great choice for working in confined and dark spaces.
Kimo 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
The Kimo 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench is a compact and quiet option, perfect for those early morning car projects. While it may not have the highest torque, it's designed for removing wheels and light automotive work. Its small size and low sound level make it a convenient choice for at-home use.
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Best heavy-duty impact wrenches
Heavy-duty impact wrenches are designed for tightening and loosening hex-head bolts, nuts, and lag screws. They are typically used by auto mechanics and other trade professionals. Here are some of the best heavy-duty impact wrenches on the market:
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 18-Volt Impact Wrench
Milwaukee is a well-known and trusted brand among professionals, and the M18 Fuel 18-Volt Impact Wrench is a top-performing tool. With 1,400 foot-pounds of torque and a 5-Ah battery, this impact wrench can handle even the toughest projects. It features a bolt removal mode that prevents damage to rusted fasteners by slowing down the tool speed to 750 RPM. The M18 is a heavy-duty tool, weighing in at 7.5 pounds, but its top-quality construction ensures it will stand up to daily use for decades.
Ingersoll Rand 1/2-Inch High-Torque 20V Impact Wrench
The Ingersoll Rand 1/2-Inch High-Torque 20V Impact Wrench is a powerful and durable tool, often used in industrial and commercial applications. It features an all-metal drivetrain, a steel-reinforced handle, and an impressive 1500 foot-pounds of nut-busting torque. The large, visible mode selector dial on the back of the tool head makes it easy to switch between the four available modes: hand tight, wrench tight, half power, and full power. This impact wrench is ideal for daily or heavy-duty applications.
DeWalt 20V Max XR 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
The DeWalt 20V Max XR 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench is a heavy-duty tool that delivers exceptional power and performance. With a weight of 7.2 pounds (including the battery), this impact wrench is built for heavy-duty work. It features three speed settings and easily removes even the most stubborn lug nuts and rusted farm equipment. The DeWalt 20V Max XR is a well-built tool that can handle the rigors of daily use.
Flex 1/2-Inch Mid-Torque 24V Impact Wrench
The Flex 1/2-Inch Mid-Torque 24V Impact Wrench is a powerful and versatile tool, well-suited for auto maintenance and mechanical work. It features multiple speed and torque settings, including bolt removal and auto-stop modes, to prevent over-tightening of nuts and fasteners. This impact wrench is smaller and lighter than high-torque models, making it easier to handle and maneuver in tight spaces.
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Best value impact wrenches
Impact wrenches are powerful tools that can be used to tighten or loosen bolts, nuts, and screws. They are particularly useful for car maintenance, such as changing tires, but can also be used for other tasks, such as removing rusted bolts on a swing set.
While impact wrenches used to be predominantly pneumatic, recent advancements in battery technology have led to an increase in the popularity of cordless impact wrenches. This has made them more accessible to consumers, with a wide range of affordable options now available.
Hart Consumer Products Inc. 20-Volt Cordless Impact Wrench
This 20-volt 1/2-inch cordless impact wrench from Hart offers excellent value for money. It is available for a wallet-friendly price, although it is worth noting that the battery is sold separately. In tests, this impact wrench was able to remove lug nuts and break loose large, rusty nuts and bolts with ease. It features a friction ring that allows for quick socket changes, making it easy to switch between tasks. The tool is also lightweight at just 3.3 pounds, making it comfortable to use for extended periods. While it only has a single speed setting and may not be suitable for daily use, it is a solid choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
Ryobi 18V Cordless Impact Wrench Kit
The Ryobi 18V cordless impact wrench is another great option for those seeking value. It is one of the lightest models available, weighing just 2.3 pounds, making it easy and comfortable to use. The wrench offers three speeds and an auto-tightening mode that helps to avoid over-tightening. While it delivers less power compared to some other impact wrenches, with a torque of up to 275 ft-lb, it is more than capable of handling most basic tasks. The built-in LED lights are also a useful feature, providing clear visibility in low-lit workspaces. This impact wrench offers excellent value for money, with a very affordable price tag.
Ridgid 18V SubCompact Impact Wrench Kit
The Ridgid 18V SubCompact impact wrench may be small in size, but it delivers impressive performance. It offers a torque of 500 ft-lb for fastening and 650 ft-lb for breakaway, making it suitable for a range of tasks, including removing and replacing lug nuts with ease. The wrench features a brushless motor, three speeds, and an auto-tightening mode that automatically shuts off to prevent over-tightening. It also has a built-in pin detent that does an impressive job of holding onto the socket. While it may struggle with some larger bolts, it is a great choice for those seeking a compact and lightweight impact wrench that delivers strong performance.
Flex 24V 1/2-in Mid-Torque (FX1451)
The Flex 24V Mid-Torque impact wrench offers a great combination of power and value. With 600 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 750 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, it delivers more power than some of its competitors. It also features an isolation zone between the housing and the motor, which helps to reduce vibration. The speed tops out at 2700 RPM, and there is an assist mode for both forward and reverse. The only downside is that it is heavier and less compact than similar models. However, with its impressive power and performance, the Flex 24V Mid-Torque impact wrench is a great option for those seeking a high-value tool.
Ryobi P262 4-Mode Impact Wrench
The Ryobi P262 is another excellent choice for those seeking a value tool. It offers 450 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 600 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, along with a top speed of 2800 RPM. It has three standard speeds and an auto mode, providing control over the applied torque. While it is not the most compact model available, it has a smaller profile than previous versions. The Ryobi P262 is a solid tool for DIYers or professionals looking for an affordable and versatile option.
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Best cordless impact wrenches
Best Overall: DeWalt 20V Mid-Torque DCF891
DeWalt's DCF891 is a solid mid-torque impact wrench with 600 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 800 ft-lbs of breakaway. It offers excellent power-to-weight ratio and comes with two drive style options: hog ring (DCF891) and pin detent (DCF892). The only downside is its length—at nearly 7 inches, it's on the bulkier side.
Most Powerful: Makita 40V XGT Mid-Torque GWT07
The Makita GWT07 is a powerful mid-torque impact wrench, delivering 560 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 810 ft-lbs of breakaway. It features advanced controls with four standard speed settings and three forward and reverse assist modes. While it's not the most compact option, its performance and power make it a top choice.
Best for the Money: Flex 24V Mid-Torque FX1451
The Flex FX1451 offers excellent value, boasting 600 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 750 ft-lbs of breakaway torque. It has an isolation zone that reduces vibration to your hand, making it comfortable to use. However, it is on the heavier side.
Best for Home Use: Skil PWRCore 20 Mid Torque IW5761B-10
The Skil IW5761B-10 is a great choice for home users, offering decent performance at an impressive price point. With 480 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 800 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, it's perfect for average DIY projects. It also features an LED ring light for improved visibility.
Most Compact: DeWalt 20V Max Atomic DCF921
The DeWalt Atomic DCF921 is a compact and lightweight impact wrench, measuring less than 5 inches and weighing only 2.5 lbs. It delivers 300 ft-lbs of breakaway torque and has four modes for advanced control. Its angled head design ensures the battery doesn't get in the way.
Other Notable Mentions:
- Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench: Heavy-duty model with high torque and excellent battery capacity.
- Ingersoll Rand 1/2-Inch High-Torque 20V Impact Wrench: Robust performance and durable construction, delivering 1500 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque.
- DeWalt 20V Max XR 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench: Powerful wrench with excellent nut-breaking power, weighing 7.2 pounds.
- Ryobi 18V One+ 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench: Affordable option that delivers solid performance for projects around the house.
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Best impact wrenches for beginners
If you're new to impact wrenches, you'll want a model that's easy to use and doesn't skimp on power. Here are some of the best options on the market:
Ryobi 18V One+ 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
This impact wrench is a fantastic option for beginners. It's lightweight at just 2.3 lbs, making it easy to wield. It also offers three speeds and an auto-tightening mode to help you avoid overtightening. With a torque of up to 275 ft-lb, it can handle most basic tasks with ease. Plus, the built-in LED lights ensure clear visibility even in low-light workspaces. The Ryobi 18V is a solid choice for those seeking a user-friendly and affordable impact wrench.
Ridgid 18V SubCompact Impact Wrench Kit
Don't be fooled by its size—the Ridgid 18V SubCompact packs a punch. Weighing just 3.6 lbs without the battery, it delivers a torque of 500 ft-lb for fastening and 650 ft-lb for breakaway. It features a brushless motor, three speeds, and an auto-tightening mode for controlled bolt removal. The built-in pin detent also does an excellent job of holding onto the socket. While it may struggle with larger bolts, it's a great choice for beginners looking for a compact and easy-to-use impact wrench.
DeWalt 20V Max Atomic 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
The DeWalt 20V Max Atomic is a powerful yet compact impact wrench. With a torque of 300 ft-lb for fastening and 450 ft-lb for breakaway, it can handle a wide range of tasks. Its angled head design ensures that the battery doesn't get in your way, and the tri-LED lights illuminate your workspace. It offers two standard and two assist modes for advanced control. This impact wrench is an excellent choice for beginners who want a lightweight, yet powerful tool.
Hart Consumer Products Inc. 20-Volt Cordless Impact Wrench
If you're on a budget, the Hart 20-Volt Cordless Impact Wrench is a great option. This no-frills tool can break loose large, rusty nuts and bolts with ease. It features a friction ring for quick socket changes, making it versatile and user-friendly. Weighing just 3.3 lbs, it's lightweight and easy to use for extended periods. While it has only one speed and lacks a brushless motor, it's an excellent value for the price.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel is a heavy-duty impact wrench that packs a punch. With a torque of 1,400 ft-lb, it's a powerful tool that can handle even the toughest projects. Its bolt removal mode helps prevent damage to rusted fasteners, and the brushless motor ensures long-lasting performance. While it's heavier and bulkier than other options, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel is built for intense and frequent use.
These impact wrenches are excellent choices for beginners, offering a range of features, power, and ease of use to suit your needs.
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Frequently asked questions
The DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless Impact Wrench Kit is a good option for heavy-duty automotive work. It delivers up to 700 foot-pounds of fastening torque and 1,200 foot-pounds of breakaway torque. It is also well-constructed and has a brushless motor that promises a long lifetime.
The Ryobi 18V Cordless Impact Wrench Kit is a good option for beginners as it is user-friendly and lightweight. It offers three speeds, an auto-tightening mode, and built-in LED lights for clear visibility. It also has a brushless motor that prolongs its motor life.
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18-Volt Impact Wrench is a good option for those looking for a heavy-duty impact wrench. It delivers 1,400 foot-pounds of torque and comes with a 5-Ah battery. It is also well-constructed and has a brushless motor, ensuring durability.
The Ryobi P262 is a good option for occasional weekend truck work. It offers 450 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 600 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, along with a 2800 RPM top speed. It also has three standard speeds and an auto mode for controlled torque application.