Tech & Auto
Ranking The Biggest Impact Driver Brands From Worst To Best
By DANIEL FEININGER
11. Metabo
Consumer Reports gives Metabo's WH18DFX impact driver model a score of 62, noting a sizable drop off in power and run time compared to others in the category.
10. Bauer
Bauer’s impact driver isn't particularly exciting, but for $60 at Harbor Freight you'll get the compact, 20V driver, a 1.5Ah battery, and a charger.
Consumer Reports levies a score of 66 against the Bauer driver, giving it poor scores for run time, charging time, and handling. However, for the price, the power rating isn't bad.
9. Craftsman
Consumer Reports highlights two Craftsman impact drivers in particular, giving the CMCF813C2 model a score of 70, and offering a 66 to the CMCF810C1.
The higher-rated driver of the pair offers a max torque of 1,500 in-lbs, placing it roughly in league with many high performers.
8. Kobalt
Consumer Reports gives Kobalt’s compact driver a score of 74, hailing its power but knocking handling, charge time, and run time. It still stacks up against budget tools admirably.
7. Skil
Consumer Reports brandishes a score of 74 for Skil’s PWR Core 20 model, a ¼-inch hex, 20V, brushless impact driver. The 20V PWR Core platform offers rapid charging.
Consumer Reports dings the driver slightly for its handling, and notes average results for the tool's run time, even with its impressive power output.