Tools & Techniques Series: Drill vs. Impact Driver
You go to buy an electric drill and there is this combo pack, drill and impact driver… they look mostly the same: different bit connection points but both go forward and backward, and generally look and sound very similar. So what is the difference? Do you really need both?
What is a drill driver?
A drill driver is one of the most essential all-purpose tools. The drill's head features a keyless chuck that holds the bits securely in place. Standard bits and hex bits are available for ultimate versatility. A power drill is an adjustable-speed tool that drills holes and drives in fasteners. There are usually speed and torque adjustments. A drill delivers a constant stream of torque and is easy to deliver more precision and control.
Common uses:
Driving small screws and fasteners into wood, drywall and softer materials
Drilling holes in wood drywall and other softer materials
Tightening/loosening bolts that don’t require extreme torque
What is an Impact Driver?
An impact driver is more compact and lightweight by design. It also has more torque than a power drill. Impact drivers deliver short bursts of torque instead of a constant flow, which allow them to use the torque more effectively than drill drivers. Unlike a drill, impact drivers do not have a chuck. Instead, they feature a quick-change clamp that holds drill bits and driver bits with a hexagonal shank. This hex-bit design is necessary to accommodate the power output of impact drivers. Impact drivers are superior at directing their force downward, making them more comfortable to use over a long period of time. They are also less likely to strip screw heads.
Common Uses:
Driving screws into hard woods or metal (can be used for drywall but only on a low speed setting)
Driving large diameters screws or lag bolts
Drilling holes only when used with a hex impact driver drill bits
Tightening/loosening bolts or screws, including stuck fasteners or fasteners that need to be very tight
So which one should you get if you can’t afford to get both?
If you can only afford to get one tool, it all comes down to what are you going to be using it for. If you are needing one for general household uses (hanging items, fixing small things, etc.), then I would recommend getting a drill. However, if you are looking to increase your skill level and are doing more DIY projects or getting into building furniture or structures, then I would recommend getting an impact driver.