Impact Wrenches: Best For Hobbyists And Enthusiasts

If you're looking for a hobby impact wrench, you'll want to consider the power, size, weight, and features of the tool. Here are some recommendations for the best hobby impact wrench:

- Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench: This wrench offers tremendous nut-busting power and excellent battery capacity. It also has multiple speed and torque settings, making it a versatile tool for various projects.

- DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Compact 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench: This compact wrench is perfect for working in tight spaces. It has bolt modes that prevent over-tightening and spin-off, ensuring precise and safe operation.

- Ingersoll Rand 1/2-inch High-Torque 20V Impact Wrench: With 1500 foot-pounds of nut-busting torque, this wrench is a powerhouse. It features a large, visible mode selector, making it easy to switch between different modes.

- Ryobi 18V One+ 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench: This wrench offers excellent value for money. It has three speeds, allowing you to work on various projects with precision.

- Makita XWT08T 18V LXT: This wrench delivers serious, unbridled power with tightening and loosening torque measurements over 850 foot-pounds. It is on the heavier side but feels balanced and comfortable to use.

- Flex 24V Mid-Torque FX1451: This wrench offers a great combination of power and affordability. It has a fastening torque of 600 ft-lbs and a nut-busting torque of 750 ft-lbs, making it suitable for most projects.

- Skil PWRCore 20 Mid Torque IW5761B-10: This wrench is an excellent choice for home users and DIY enthusiasts. It has a fastening torque of 480 ft-lbs and a nut-busting torque of 800 ft-lbs, making it capable of handling most home improvement tasks.

- DeWalt 20V Max Atomic DCF922: If you're looking for a compact and lightweight wrench, this one weighs only 2.5 lbs and has a fastening torque of 300 ft-lbs, making it perfect for tight spaces.

Best impact wrenches for automotive work

Impact wrenches are a must-have for any DIY enthusiast or professional mechanic. They are designed to remove stubborn lug nuts and rusted bolts with ease, making them an essential tool for automotive work. When choosing an impact wrench, it is important to consider the size of the wrench, its power, speed, and torque. Here are some of the best impact wrenches for automotive work:

Makita XWT08T 18V LXT

The Makita XWT08T 18V LXT is a powerful and heavy-duty impact wrench that is perfect for automotive dirty work. With tightening and loosening torque measurements of over 850 foot-pounds, it provides plenty of power to tackle any job. The kit comes with two 5-amp-hour batteries, a charger, and a carrying bag. While it is on the heavier side, it feels balanced and comfortable to use.

Ryobi 18V One+ 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench

The Ryobi 18V One+ 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench is an excellent choice for those looking for a combination of performance and affordability. It offers a respectable loosening torque reading, making it suitable for most automotive jobs. The tool has a comfortable grip and a balanced design, making it easy on the arms and wrists.

Porter-Cable 20V MAX

The Porter-Cable 20V MAX is a great option if you are looking for a balance between power and affordability. It offers adequate loosening torque for most automotive tasks, although the head is a bit long, which can make it tricky to use in small spaces.

DeWalt 20V Max XR 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench

The DeWalt 20V Max XR 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench is a top performer in terms of both power and comfort. It has impressive torque numbers, with fastening torque second only to the Makita XWT08T. DeWalt also offers a wide range of battery options, making it easy to add to your collection of cordless tools.

Milwaukee 2767-20 M18 FUEL

The Milwaukee 2767-20 M18 FUEL is a popular choice among Milwaukee fans. It has a reputation for quality and delivers impressive performance. This impact wrench is heavy but balanced, with a comfortable grip for extended use. It is also one of the fastest at removing axle nuts.

Best impact wrenches for heavy-duty tasks

Impact wrenches are a must-have for heavy-duty fastening or loosening tasks, whether you're a professional mechanic or a DIY enthusiast. They are designed to deliver high torque output with minimal effort, making them ideal for tightening lug nuts, assembling machinery, and tackling stubborn bolts and nuts. Here are some of the best impact wrenches for heavy-duty tasks:

DEWALT 20V MAX XR

The DEWALT 20V MAX XR is a cordless impact wrench that packs a punch. With a brushless motor, it delivers impressive power and long-lasting performance, making it a favourite among professionals. It offers up to 2,400 IPM and features a half-inch Anvil with a detent pin or hog ring. The LED work light with a 20-second delay ensures increased visibility.

Milwaukee 2967-20 M18

The Milwaukee 2967-20 M18 is an electric impact wrench capable of generating up to 1,100 lb-ft of fastening torque and 1,600 lb-ft of breakaway torque. Its brushless motor and half-inch high-torque impact wrench with a friction ring make it perfect for reaching into tight spaces. The four-mode drive control and bolt removal control provide greater precision.

Makita XWT08Z 18V LXT

The Makita XWT08Z 18V LXT is a versatile tool, ideal for automotive and industrial tasks. Its brushless motor extends battery life, providing up to 50% longer run time per charge. With three power modes and a half-inch anvil with a friction ring, you can easily adjust torque settings and quickly change sockets.

Ingersoll Rand 2235QTiMAX

The Ingersoll Rand 2235QTiMAX is a pneumatic air impact wrench with a twin-hammer mechanism. Its lightweight titanium construction and ergonomic grip make it easy to handle during long jobs. With up to 1,300 lb-ft of torque, this wrench is perfect for suspension work and industrial equipment repair.

CRAFTSMAN V20 RP

The CRAFTSMAN V20 RP is a heavy-duty impact wrench offering good runtime and efficiency. It delivers up to 700 lb-ft of maximum tightening torque and 1,000 lb-ft of breakaway torque. The three-speed settings and variable speed trigger provide control, while the built-in LED work light adds convenience.

Best compact impact wrenches

When it comes to choosing the best compact impact wrench, there are several factors to consider, including torque, power, weight, and ease of use. Here are some of the top-rated compact impact wrenches on the market:

DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Compact 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench

DeWalt's Atomic 20V Max is a powerful and compact impact wrench, measuring less than 5 inches from tip to tail. It features two speed settings and a bolt removal and fastening mode that prevents over-tightening and spin-off. While it is a loud model, its high torque and compact design make it ideal for working in tight spaces.

Ingersoll Rand 1/2-Inch High-Torque 20V Impact Wrench

The Ingersoll Rand 1/2-inch High-Torque impact wrench is designed for daily or heavy-use applications. With an all-metal drivetrain and a steel-reinforced handle, it delivers 1500 feet-pounds of nut-busting torque. It features a dial mode selector that allows you to easily switch between four modes: hand tight, wrench tight, half power, and full power. Its compact and ergonomic design provides easy access to tight spaces.

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 3/8-Inch Mid-Torque Impact Wrench

This compact impact wrench from Milwaukee offers four mode settings, including a "drive control" mode that prevents over-tightening of fasteners. Its compact body and built-in LED lights make it ideal for use in tight and dark spaces. The M18 FUEL is a professional-grade tool designed to withstand daily use and is a versatile option for homeowners with frequent projects.

RYOBI 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Cordless Compact 3/8-Inch Impact Wrench

The RYOBI ONE+ HP is a compact and lightweight impact wrench that delivers plenty of power for a wide range of tasks. It features a 4.0 Ah high-performance battery and a four-mode drive system. This tool-only option is a great choice for those already invested in the RYOBI ONE+ battery ecosystem.

AOBEN Cordless Impact Wrench 21V 300N.m Brushless Impact Gun

The AOBEN Cordless Impact Wrench is a compact and powerful tool, delivering up to 300N.m of torque. It comes with a 4.0Ah battery, charger, 6 sockets, and a tool bag. This impact wrench is an excellent choice for car and home use, providing convenience and versatility.

When choosing a compact impact wrench, consider the specific applications you need it for, the available features, and the ecosystem of tools and batteries you may already own. These factors will help guide you in selecting the best compact impact wrench for your needs.

Best value impact wrenches

When it comes to the best value impact wrenches, there are several options that offer a balance of performance and affordability. Here are some top choices:

Ryobi 18V One+ 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench

The Ryobi 18V One+ is a fantastic choice for those seeking a wallet-friendly option without compromising on functionality. Although it may not produce the highest torque readings, it is more than capable of handling all but the most challenging tasks on your car. It boasts a respectable loosening torque, making it ideal for loosening and tightening lug nuts with ease. Its lightweight design ensures comfortable and strain-free use, even during extended periods.

Porter-Cable 20V MAX

The Porter-Cable 20V MAX is another excellent option for those seeking a balance between power and price. This impact wrench delivers adequate loosening torque for most automotive jobs, and its performance rivals that of more expensive brands. While the head may be a bit long for tight spaces, it is still a solid choice for a garage tool that won't break the bank.

Flex 24V 1/2-in Mid-Torque FX1451

The Flex 24V Mid-Torque FX1451 is a great choice if you're looking for Pro-grade quality at a more affordable price. This impact wrench offers 600 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 750 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, providing more power than some of its competitors. It features an isolation zone between the housing and the motor, reducing the vibration you feel in your hand during use. The only potential downside is its weight, as it is one of the heavier models on the market.

Skil PWRCore 20 Mid Torque IW5761B-10

If you're a DIYer or home user looking for a combination of quality and affordability, the Skil PWRCore 20 Mid Torque IW5761B-10 is an excellent option. With a kit price of under $200, it offers decent fastening performance, comfortable ergonomics, and an LED ring light around the collet. While the speed may not be impressive, the trade-off is well worth the low price.

Kimo 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench

For a quiet and compact option, the Kimo 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench is a great choice. Its small dimensions make it easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces, and it produces less noise than its competitors. While the torque numbers are on the lower side, it is perfect for quieter tasks like removing wheels on a Saturday morning.

These impact wrenches offer excellent value for money, providing a good balance of performance, features, and affordability.

Best impact wrenches for home use

Impact wrenches are powerful tools that can make light work of removing stubborn lug nuts and rusted bolts. They are a great addition to any home toolbox, especially for DIY enthusiasts.

Skil PWRCore 20 Mid Torque IW5761B-10

The Skil PWRCore 20 Mid Torque IW5761B-10 is a great choice for home users who don't need all-day professional performance. With a kit price of under $200, it offers decent fastening performance, comfortable ergonomics, and an LED ring light. While the test results may not be impressive, the low price makes it a solid choice for average DIY projects around the house.

Greenworks IWD401 Cordless Impact Wrench

The Greenworks IWD401 is a 24V cordless impact wrench that offers plenty of power for home projects. With a kit price of under $130, it can break up to 300 ft-lbs of torque, which is more than enough for most tasks around the garage. It also has a USB port built into the battery, making it a versatile tool for various projects.

DeWalt 20V Max Atomic DCF922

The DeWalt 20V Max Atomic DCF922 is a compact and powerful impact wrench, perfect for tight spaces. With 450 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, it can handle most tasks with ease. The angled head design ensures the battery doesn't get in the way, and the tri-LED lights provide excellent illumination. This wrench is lightweight and easy to handle, making it a great choice for home users.

Ryobi 18V One+ 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench

The Ryobi 18V One+ 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench is an excellent value option for homeowners. It can easily handle lug nut removal and rusted bolt tasks, and its three-speed settings make it versatile for various projects. The lack of a brushless motor may limit its durability for daily use, but it's a capable tool for occasional projects.

Flex 24V Mid-Torque FX1451

The Flex 24V Mid-Torque FX1451 is a great choice for those looking for a balance of power and affordability. With 600 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 750 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, it offers more power than some of its competitors. The isolation zone between the housing and the motor helps reduce vibration, making it comfortable to use. This wrench is a bit heavier than others, but it delivers excellent performance for the price.

Frequently asked questions