
If you're looking for a powerful tool to help with a range of tasks, an impact wrench could be the answer. Once the preserve of professional mechanics, impact wrenches have become more accessible thanks to improvements in battery technology. Cordless impact wrenches are now viable alternatives to pneumatic, air-powered wrenches, offering greater mobility and convenience.
Impact wrenches are similar to impact drivers but with a larger drive system. They are used for tightening or loosening nuts and bolts and driving large lag screws. They are particularly useful for car mechanics when changing tyres, for example.
When choosing an impact wrench, it's important to consider the power, speed, size, weight, and ease of use. Different wrenches will be better suited to different tasks, so it's worth checking reviews to find the best one for your needs.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Best Overall | DeWalt 20V Mid-Torque DCF891 |
Most Powerful | Makita 40V XGT Mid-Torque GWT07 |
Best for the Money | Flex 24V Mid-Torque FX1451 |
Best for Home Use | Skil PWRCore 20 Mid-Torque IW5761B-10 |
Most Compact | DeWalt 20V Max Atomic DCF922 |
Best Corded Electric Impact Wrench | PORTER-CABLE Impact Wrench, 7.5-Amp, 450 lbs. of Torque, 1/2 Inch, Corded (PCE211) |
What You'll Learn
Best compact impact wrenches
When it comes to choosing the best compact impact wrench, there are several factors to consider, including torque, speed, size, and intended use. Compact impact wrenches are ideal for working in tight spaces, and while they may have lower torque specs than larger models, they are versatile and capable of handling most assembly and disassembly tasks.
DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Compact 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench:
This compact impact wrench offers impressive torque and speed, making it perfect for driving timber screws and tightening lug nuts. It features bolt removal and fastening modes to prevent runoff and over-tightening, along with two speed settings. While it is a powerful tool, it is also the loudest model among its competitors.
Ingersoll Rand 1/2-Inch High-Torque 20V Impact Wrench:
Ingersoll Rand tools are known for their robust performance and durable construction, commonly used in industrial and commercial applications. This impact wrench features an all-metal drivetrain, a steel-reinforced handle, and an impressive 1500 foot-pounds of nut-busting torque. It includes four modes: hand tight, wrench tight, half power, and full power, making it suitable for a wide range of tasks.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 3/8-Inch Mid-Torque Impact Wrench:
This compact impact wrench is perfect for tight spaces, offering four mode settings to prevent over-tightening and spinning off fasteners. The "drive control" mode is particularly useful, limiting torque to 35 foot-pounds when driving and backing off the RPM when removing fasteners. It also features a compact body and three LEDs for improved visibility in dark spaces.
Ridgid 18V SubCompact 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench:
The Ridgid 18V is a lightweight and compact option for light-duty work. While it may not be suitable for bigger jobs, it is easy to handle and can tackle tasks like removing lug nuts tightened to 150 foot-pounds. It also features a bolt-tightening mode to prevent over-tightening.
Ryobi 18V One+ 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench:
The Ryobi 18V is a cost-effective option that delivers impressive performance. It can easily remove and fasten lug nuts and rusted bolts, and it includes three speeds to help avoid over-tightening. However, it lacks a brushless motor, so it may not be suitable for daily use.
When choosing a compact impact wrench, consider the specific tasks you plan to undertake, the available space you have to work with, and the level of torque and speed you require. These factors will help guide you in selecting the best compact impact wrench for your needs.
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Best value impact wrenches
If you're looking for a best value impact wrench, you're spoilt for choice. Here are some of the best value impact wrenches on the market:
Ryobi 18V One+ 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
The Ryobi 18V One+ 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench is a great choice if you're looking for a powerful and affordable tool. With three speeds, it can handle a variety of tasks, from removing lug nuts to driving rusty bolts. It's also very compact and lightweight, making it easy to handle and perfect for working in tight spaces. The Ryobi 18V One+ is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a capable tool to help with projects around the house.
Flex 24V 1/2-in Mid-Torque (FX1451)
The Flex 24V Mid-Torque impact wrench offers an impressive 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 reduce vibration in your hand. The only downside is that it's on the heavier side.
Skil PWRCore 20 Mid Torque (IW5761B-10)
The Skil PWRCore 20 Mid Torque impact wrench is an excellent option for home users or DIYers who don't need professional-level performance. With 480 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 800 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, it delivers decent power at an impressively low price. The kit also includes an LED ring light and comfortable ergonomics, making it a great value for the money.
DeWalt 20V Max Atomic (DCF921)
The DeWalt 20V Max Atomic is a compact and powerful impact wrench, perfect for tight spaces. With 450 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, it can handle a wide range of tasks. The sub-5-inch head is angled slightly to ensure the battery doesn't get in the way, and the tri-LED lights provide clear illumination of the work area. It also features two standard and two assist modes for advanced control.
Ridgid R86012 Impact Wrench
The Ridgid R86012 Impact Wrench is a good option for those who are already invested in the Ridgid platform or are looking for a value tool. With 450 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 600 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, it offers similar performance to some of its competitors. It also includes an auto-stop mode to prevent over-tightening fasteners.
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Best heavy-duty impact wrenches
Impact wrenches are powerful tools that can be used for tightening and loosening various hex-head bolts, nuts, and lag screws. They are especially useful for heavy-duty tasks that require high torque and speed. Here are some of the best heavy-duty impact wrenches on the market:
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel is a heavy-hitter when it comes to impact wrenches. With 1,400 foot-pounds of torque, it has no trouble breaking loose even the most stubborn lug nuts. It features four modes, three different speeds, and a bolt removal mode that prevents runaway bolts. It's an excellent choice for heavy equipment repair, industrial maintenance, and any other task involving large, tough nuts and bolts.
Ingersoll Rand 1/2-Inch High-Torque 20V Impact Wrench
The Ingersoll Rand 1/2-Inch High-Torque 20V Impact Wrench is a powerhouse, delivering a whopping 1500 foot-pounds of nut-busting torque. It features an all-metal drivetrain, a steel-reinforced handle, and a large, visible mode selector with four modes for precise control. This impact wrench is built for robust performance and is commonly used in industrial and commercial applications.
DeWalt 20V Max XR 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
The DeWalt 20V Max XR is a high-torque impact wrench that packs a punch. Weighing in at 7.2 pounds with its large 5-Ah battery, this wrench is a beast when it comes to breaking loose rusted nuts and bolts. It features three speed settings and delivers up to 1,400 inch-pounds of torque, making it ideal for auto, truck, or tractor repair.
Makita 40V XGT Mid-Torque GWT07
The Makita 40V XGT Mid-Torque GWT07 delivers an impressive 810 foot-pounds of nut-busting torque, making it one of the most powerful impact wrenches in its class. It offers four standard speeds and three forward and reverse assist modes for precise control. Its flexible joint helps absorb vibration, making it comfortable to use.
Flex 24V 1/2-Inch Mid-Torque FX1451
The Flex 24V 1/2-Inch Mid-Torque FX1451 offers an excellent combination of power and value. With 750 foot-pounds of breakaway torque and a top speed of 2700 RPM, it can handle a wide range of tasks. It features an isolation zone between the housing and the motor to reduce vibration, making it comfortable to use for extended periods.
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Best impact wrenches for home use
Impact wrenches are powerful tools that can make light work of tough jobs such as removing stubborn lug nuts and rusted bolts. They are a must-have for any DIY enthusiast or professional mechanic.
When it comes to the best impact wrenches for home use, there are several factors to consider, including power, torque, speed, size, weight, and ergonomics. Here are some of the top impact wrenches on the market that are suitable for home use:
Skil PWRCore 20 Mid Torque IW5761B-10
The Skil PWRCore 20 Mid Torque IW5761B-10 is a great option for home users and DIY enthusiasts. It offers decent fastening performance with 480 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 800 ft-lbs of breakaway torque. It has a top speed of 1900 RPM and features an LED ring light for clear illumination of the work area. The kit comes in at an impressively low price, making it an excellent choice for those who don't need professional-level performance.
DeWalt 20V Max Atomic DCF921
The DeWalt 20V Max Atomic DCF921 is a compact and lightweight impact wrench, perfect for tight spaces. With 300 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 450 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, it packs a punch for its size. The angled head design ensures the battery doesn't get in the way, and the tri-LED lights provide excellent illumination. It also features two standard and two assist modes for advanced control.
Flex 24V 1/2-in Mid-Torque FX1451
The Flex 24V 1/2-in Mid-Torque FX1451 is a powerful and feature-rich impact wrench. With 600 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 750 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, it delivers impressive performance. It has a top speed of 2700 RPM and includes both forward and reverse assist modes. The isolation zone between the housing and the motor helps reduce vibration to your hand. While it is heavier and less compact than some competitors, it offers excellent value for money.
Ryobi 18V One+ 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
The Ryobi 18V One+ 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench is a fantastic choice for those on a budget. It delivers enough power to handle most jobs around the house, with 350 ft-lbs of loosening torque and 250 ft-lbs of tightening torque. The three-speed settings allow for better control, and the lightweight design makes it easy to use for extended periods.
Makita XWT08T 18V LXT
The Makita XWT08T 18V LXT is a powerful and well-balanced impact wrench. With over 850 ft-lbs of both tightening and loosening torque, it can handle even the most demanding automotive tasks. It comes with two 5-amp-hour batteries, a charger, and a carrying bag. While it is on the heavier side, it feels well-balanced and comfortable to use.
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Best impact wrenches for auto mechanics
Impact wrenches are a must-have for auto mechanics, offering the power and speed to tackle various automotive tasks with ease. Here are some of the best options on the market:
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
Milwaukee's M18 Fuel impact wrench is a heavy-hitter, delivering an impressive 1,400 foot-pounds of torque. It effortlessly breaks loose even the most stubborn lug nuts and features four modes, three speed settings, and a bolt removal mode to prevent over-tightening. Its compact body and ergonomic design make it easy to handle, and its powerful performance makes it ideal for heavy equipment repair and industrial maintenance applications.
DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Compact 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
The DeWalt Atomic 20V Max impact wrench stands out for its compact design, measuring less than 5 inches from tip to tail. It packs a punch with the highest torque specs in its class, making light work of timber screws. It also features bolt removal and fastening modes to prevent runoff and over-tightening. This wrench is an excellent choice for working in tight spaces, although it is on the louder side.
Ingersoll Rand 1/2-Inch High-Torque 20V Impact Wrench
The Ingersoll Rand 1/2-Inch High-Torque impact wrench delivers an incredible 1500 foot-pounds of nut-busting torque, making it ideal for daily or heavy-duty applications. Its unique dial mode selector always faces the user, making it easy to switch between its four modes: hand tight, wrench tight, half power, and full power. The all-metal drivetrain and steel-reinforced handle ensure robust performance and durability.
DeWalt 20V Max XR 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
The DeWalt 20V Max XR impact wrench is a beast when it comes to nut-breaking power. With a weight of 7.2 pounds, it's on the heavier side, but that gives the impression of solid construction. It easily breaks free lug nuts and rusted farm equipment. The wrench features three speed settings and is ideal for auto, truck, or tractor repair in the field or on the roadside.
Ryobi 18V One+ 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
The Ryobi 18V One+ impact wrench offers exceptional value, hitting a price point that's hard to beat. It delivers enough power to handle lug nut removal and rusted bolt breaking with ease. The three-speed settings are useful for preventing over-tightening, and the compact design makes it easy to handle and manoeuvre in tight spaces.
Flex 1/2-Inch Mid-Torque 24V Impact Wrench
The Flex 1/2-Inch Mid-Torque impact wrench is a fantastic choice for auto maintenance and mechanical work. It offers plenty of torque for common operations and features bolt removal and auto-stop modes to prevent over-tightening. The smaller and lighter design compared to high-torque models makes it easy to handle, and the three additional mode settings allow for tailored speed and torque control.
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Frequently asked questions
An impact wrench is used for fastening or removing nuts and bolts, or driving very large lag screws. They are similar to impact drivers but with a larger drive system.
The best overall corded impact wrench is the PORTER-CABLE PCE211 Impact Wrench. It offers 450 feet-pounds of torque, 2,200 RPM and 2,700 BPM, and a 7.5-amp motor.
The best value corded impact wrench is the WEN 48107 Two-Direction Electric Impact Wrench. It offers 2,100 RPM and 2,700 BPM, 230 feet-pounds of torque, and a hog nose anvil for easy socket changes.
The best premium corded impact wrench is the Makita 6952 Impact Driver. It offers 3,200 RPM, 3,100 BPM, and 88.5 feet pounds of torque. It also features a convenient reverse switch and impact-resistant aluminum housing.
The best corded impact wrench for beginners is the DEWALT Corded Impact Wrench with Detent Pin Anvil, 7.5-Amp, 1/2-Inch. It features a soft grip, a 1/2-inch detent anvil, and ball-bearing construction. It offers 345 feet-pounds of torque.