The best cordless impact drivers balance driving power, control, and a battery platform that fits the work you do. I’d put the DEWALT DCF845B first for its three-speed control, while the FLEX 24V kit stands out for buyers who want batteries and a fast charger included. The DEWALT DCK240C2 combo adds a drill for people starting without either tool. The main tradeoff is whether to prioritize finer control and platform support, a ready-to-use kit, or the flexibility of two tools. Read on for how the eight options compare and which one fits your projects.
Get business pricing on tools and workshop supplies
- Business-only prices and quantity discounts
- Tax-exempt purchasing
- Multiple users, one account, clear invoices
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- Control sets the leaders apart: The DEWALT DCF845B’s three speeds give buyers more room to match driving behavior to the fastener and material than a basic single-purpose setup.
- A bare tool makes most sense inside an existing platform: The DEWALT DCF860B may suit owners of compatible 20V MAX batteries, while new buyers need to account for the separate battery and charger.
- The FLEX kit is the clearest ready-to-work choice: Two 2.5Ah batteries and a fast charger reduce interruptions and avoid an initial battery purchase.
- Combo kits trade specialization for coverage: DEWALT’s and CRAFTSMAN’s drill-and-driver bundles give a new owner two tools, though a dedicated driver may be a better fit for someone who already owns a drill.
- Included accessories change the value equation: The BLACK+DECKER and CRAFTSMAN driver kits include a battery and charger, while the GoYwato offers a brushless kit alternative whose brand and platform support deserve closer scrutiny.
| cordless impact driver | Voltage | Maximum torque | Motor | Chuck |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX POWERCONN | 20V | 2,000 in-lbs. | Brushless | 1/4 in. hex |
| DEWALT 20V MAX XR 1/4-Inch Cor | 20V | 2,500 in-lbs. | Brushless | 1/4 in. |
| GoYwato 21V Brushless Cordless | 21V | 2,655 in-lb. (300 N·m) | Brushless | 1/4 in. all-metal hex |
| DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless 3- | 20V | 1,825 in-lbs. | Brushless | 0.5 in. (as listed) |
| FLEX 24V Brushless Cordless 1/ | 24V | 1,800 in-lbs. | Sensor-free brushless | 1/4 in. hex |
| CRAFTSMAN V20 20V MAX Cordless | 20V | 1,460 in-lbs. | — | — |
| DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill | 20 volts | — | — | — |
| CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill a | 20V | — | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX POWERCONNECT Brushless Cordless Impact Driver Set
The BLACK+DECKER POWERCONNECT is a practical choice for someone starting with an impact driver and wanting the essentials in one box. Its brushless motor, three speed settings, and variable trigger give more control across routine fastening jobs than the simpler included kits such as the CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCF800C1. The set also supplies a battery, charger, and seven bits, so it can be put to work without adding separate purchases. Its listed 2,000 in-lbs. of torque is capable for many household and workshop tasks, though it trails the DEWALT DCF860B’s higher stated torque. The included battery is only 2Ah, which may mean more charging or swapping during longer sessions. Choose it for a well-equipped starting point; skip it if extended runtime is your priority.
Pros:- Brushless motor with up to 2,000 in-lbs. of stated torque
- Three speed settings and a variable trigger allow more control across fastening tasks
- Includes a 2Ah battery, charger, and seven impact bits
- Built-in LED helps light dim work areas
Cons:- The included 2Ah battery may require frequent charging during sustained use
- Its stated torque is below the DEWALT DCF860B’s 2,500 in-lbs.
Best for: DIYers who need a first impact driver with a battery, charger, and bits included for occasional home and workshop projects
Not ideal for: Frequent users fastening through long work sessions who would benefit from a higher-capacity battery or a spare
- Voltage:20V
- Motor:Brushless
- Maximum torque:2,000 in-lbs.
- Maximum speed:3,200 rpm
- Maximum impact rate:3,800 IPM
- Speed settings:3
- Chuck:1/4 in. hex
- Included battery:2Ah lithium-ion
- Included accessories:Charger and 7-piece impact driver bit set
Our verdict“Choose this kit if you want a capable brushless driver with the battery, charger, and starter bits already included.”
DEWALT 20V MAX XR 1/4-Inch Cordless Impact Driver, Bare Tool (DCF860B)
The DEWALT DCF860B earns its place for buyers who want the strongest stated torque in this group: up to 2,500 in-lbs. That gives it more headroom for demanding fastening than the DEWALT DCF845B, whose listed torque is 1,825 in-lbs. Three speeds and a variable trigger let the user rein in that capability for lighter work, while nine built-in LEDs provide broad illumination around the fastener. The tradeoff is that this is a bare tool: battery and charger are sold separately, so it makes more sense for someone already on DEWALT’s 20V MAX platform. Its 5.75-inch dimension is compact on paper, but buyers prioritizing a complete kit should look at the BLACK+DECKER or FLEX options instead.
Pros:- Highest stated maximum torque among these five drivers at 2,500 in-lbs.
- Brushless motor and three speed settings support demanding and lighter fastening work
- Variable-speed trigger provides additional control
- Nine built-in LEDs illuminate the work area
Cons:- Battery and charger are not included
- Its higher torque may be unnecessary for occasional light-duty household fastening
Best for: DEWALT 20V MAX owners who regularly drive large or stubborn fasteners and want higher stated torque with adjustable speed control
Not ideal for: First-time buyers without compatible DEWALT batteries and a charger, since both are sold separately
- Voltage:20V
- Motor:Brushless
- Maximum torque:2,500 in-lbs.
- Maximum no-load speed:3,800 rpm
- Speed settings:3
- Chuck:1/4 in.
- Lighting:9 built-in LEDs
- Battery and charger:Sold separately
Our verdict“Pick the DCF860B if you already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries and need the most stated torque in this lineup.”
GoYwato 21V Brushless Cordless Impact Driver Kit
The GoYwato kit stands out for buyers who want two included 4.0Ah batteries and a broad accessory bundle. A spare battery can keep a project moving while the other charges, a practical advantage over the BLACK+DECKER set’s single 2Ah battery. It also lists 2,655 in-lb. maximum torque, the highest figure here, and its reverse automatic stop is intended to help keep fasteners from flying out when backing them off. The main qualification is speed: the listed maximum rotational speed is just 1,400 rpm, well below the DEWALT DCF860B’s 3,800 rpm. That may matter when moving quickly between fasteners. Its two forward speeds and included sockets and bits suit users who value a stocked kit, but buyers who prioritize listed speed should choose another model.
Pros:- Includes two 4.0Ah lithium-ion batteries and a charger
- Lists up to 2,655 in-lb. of maximum torque
- Reverse automatic stop is designed to help prevent backed-out screws from flying away
- Includes 14 sockets, 10 screwdriver bits, and a carrying case
Cons:- Listed maximum rotational speed of 1,400 rpm is well below the DEWALT DCF860B’s 3,800 rpm
- Two forward speeds offer fewer control steps than the three-speed DEWALT and BLACK+DECKER options
Best for: DIYers and repair users who want two larger-capacity batteries plus sockets, bits, and a case in one kit
Not ideal for: Users who prioritize high rotational speed or need a well-established battery platform shared across many tools
- Voltage:21V
- Motor:Brushless
- Maximum torque:2,655 in-lb. (300 N·m)
- Maximum rotational speed:1,400 rpm
- Forward speed settings:2
- Chuck:1/4 in. all-metal hex
- Batteries:Two 4.0Ah lithium-ion batteries
- Included accessories:Charger, 14 sockets, 10 screwdriver bits, carrying case
Our verdict“Choose the GoYwato if two large batteries and a substantial accessory set matter more to you than high listed speed.”
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless 3-Speed Impact Driver, Tool Only (DCF845B)
At 5.1 inches long and a listed 1 kg, the DEWALT DCF845B is the compact choice for buyers already invested in 20V MAX batteries. Its brushless motor, three speed settings, variable trigger, and integrated three-LED light combine useful control with a short body for working around framing, cabinetry, or other tight spots. It lists 1,825 in-lbs. of torque, enough for many fastening jobs, though the DCF860B offers more stated torque and higher speed if heavy-duty driving is the priority. The DCF845B also arrives as a tool only, so a new DEWALT user must supply the battery and charger. Compared with the BLACK+DECKER kit, this is a more compact platform pick, but a less ready-to-use purchase.
Pros:- Compact 5.1-inch listed length suits work in tighter spaces
- Brushless motor with three speed settings and variable trigger
- Integrated three-LED work light
- Compatible with DEWALT 20V MAX batteries
Cons:- Battery and charger are sold separately
- Its 1,825 in-lb. torque rating is lower than the DCF860B and GoYwato listings
Best for: DEWALT 20V MAX users who need a shorter-bodied impact driver for cabinetry, framing, or confined work areas
Not ideal for: New cordless-tool buyers who need a battery and charger included, or users seeking the highest stated torque
- Voltage:20V
- Motor:Brushless
- Maximum torque:1,825 in-lbs.
- Maximum speed:3,400 rpm
- Speed settings:3
- Chuck:0.5 in. (as listed)
- Dimensions:5.1 × 3.38 × 8.07 in.
- Weight:1 kg
- Included components:Impact driver tool only
Our verdict“Choose the DCF845B if compact access and compatibility with your DEWALT 20V MAX batteries matter more than maximum torque.”
FLEX 24V Brushless Cordless 1/4-Inch Hex Impact Driver Kit
The FLEX 24V kit pairs a compact impact driver with two 2.5Ah batteries and a 160W fast charger, making it a balanced pick for users who want a spare battery without the larger 4.0Ah packs in the GoYwato kit. Its listed 1,800 in-lbs. of torque and 3,400 rpm are suited to general fastening, while the 1/4-inch hex chuck and built-in LED cover familiar jobsite needs. Compared with the DEWALT DCF860B, it gives up stated torque but arrives with batteries and a charger. The 24V system may appeal to buyers building around FLEX tools, though it does less for someone already invested in another battery platform. The five-year limited warranty requires registration within 30 days; without registration, the listed term is three years.
Pros:- Includes two 2.5Ah lithium-ion batteries
- 160W fast charger is included
- Compact design and built-in LED suit tight or dim work areas
- Brushless motor with up to 1,800 in-lbs. of stated torque
Cons:- Listed torque is below the DEWALT DCF860B and GoYwato figures
- Five-year limited warranty requires registration within 30 days
- The 2.5Ah batteries may need swapping or recharging during extended use
Best for: DIYers or tradespeople starting a FLEX 24V tool set who want two batteries and a fast charger included
Not ideal for: Owners of another cordless platform who want to avoid adding a separate battery system, or buyers seeking the highest stated torque
- Voltage:24V
- Motor:Sensor-free brushless
- Maximum torque:1,800 in-lbs.
- Maximum rotational speed:3,400 rpm
- Chuck:1/4 in. hex
- Batteries:Two 2.5Ah lithium-ion batteries
- Included charger:160W fast charger
- Warranty:5-year limited with registration within 30 days; 3 years without registration
Our verdict“Pick the FLEX if you want a compact driver with two batteries and a fast charger for a FLEX 24V setup.”
CRAFTSMAN V20 20V MAX Cordless 1/4-Inch Impact Driver Kit (CMCF800C1)
The CRAFTSMAN V20 is a straightforward pick for driving larger fasteners, with 1,460 in-lbs. of torque and a quick-release chuck for changing bits with one hand. Its included battery and charger make it ready to use as a standalone impact driver, unlike the bare-tool DEWALT DCF860B, which requires a compatible battery system. The tradeoff is the CRAFTSMAN kit’s single 1.3 Ah battery: it offers less capacity than the two-battery CRAFTSMAN CMCK200C2 combo, so extended jobs may call for a recharge. At 2.5 pounds, it is also lighter than the listed DEWALT DCK240C2 impact driver. I’d choose this model when fastening power and a simple kit matter more than having a second battery or a drill.
Pros:- 1,460 in-lbs. of torque for driving larger fasteners
- Quick-release 1/4-inch chuck supports one-handed bit changes
- Includes a 20V battery and charger
- 2.5-pound listed weight keeps the tool relatively light
Cons:- One 1.3 Ah battery provides limited capacity for extended work
- No drill/driver is included for drilling holes
- No additional battery is included for rotation while charging
Best for: DIYers and homeowners who need a ready-to-use impact driver for screws and larger fasteners, and already have a separate drill.
Not ideal for: People tackling long fastening sessions or jobs that require a drill as well; the kit includes only one 1.3 Ah battery and one tool.
- Voltage:20V
- Maximum torque:1,460 in-lbs.
- Maximum rotational speed:3,800 rpm
- Impact rate:3,100 ipm
- Chuck size:1/4 inch (6.35 mm)
- Battery capacity:1.3 Ah
- Weight:2.5 lbs.
- Included components:Impact driver, 20V MAX 1.3 Ah battery, charger
Our verdict“Choose this kit for a lightweight, ready-to-use driver with strong listed torque, provided one small battery is enough for your jobs.”
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit with 2 Batteries, Charger, and Bag (DCK240C2)
The DEWALT DCK240C2 earns its place by pairing an impact driver with a drill/driver, so one kit covers fastening and drilling without requiring separate tool purchases. It includes two batteries, a charger, and a contractor bag; that gives it a more complete setup than the single-driver CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCF800C1. Its compact 5.55-inch impact driver and LED lights with a 20-second delay suit cramped work areas where tool reach and visibility matter. The impact driver is listed at 1,700 in-lb. of torque, while the CRAFTSMAN CMCK200C2 combo lists 1,460 in-lbs.; the DEWALT’s listed advantage may appeal to buyers who prioritize fastening capacity. This is a two-tool kit, though, so buyers seeking only an impact driver may be carrying and storing more than they need.
Pros:- Includes both a drill/driver and a 1/4-inch impact driver
- Two lithium-ion batteries allow one to be available while the other charges
- Compact 5.55-inch impact driver is suited to tight work areas
- LED work lights have a 20-second delay
Cons:- The added drill, batteries, charger, and bag make it a larger kit to store and carry
- The listed impact driver weighs 2.8 lbs.
- Buyers who need only an impact driver may not need the second tool
Best for: New homeowners and DIYers who need both a drill and impact driver, plus two batteries for household projects.
Not ideal for: Buyers who already own a capable drill or want the simplest, lightest single-tool setup; this kit includes two tools and their accessories.
- Voltage:20 volts
- Impact driver torque:1,700 in-lb
- Impact driver length:5.55 in.
- Impact driver weight:2.8 lbs.
- Drill/driver length:7.5 in.
- Batteries included:2 lithium-ion batteries
- Chucks:1/4 in. hex impact driver chuck; 1/2 in. ratcheting drill chuck
- Included components:Drill/driver, impact driver, batteries, charger, contractor bag
- Warranty:3-year limited warranty
Our verdict“Pick this kit when you need a compact drill and impact driver together and want two batteries included.”
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit with 2 Batteries and Charger
This CRAFTSMAN combo is a practical way to get both core cordless tools in one V20 kit: a two-speed drill/driver and an impact driver rated at 1,460 in-lbs. of torque. Two 2 Ah batteries and a charger make it better equipped for continued work than the single-battery CRAFTSMAN CMCF800C1. The drill’s two speed ranges offer a slower setting for control and a faster one for routine drilling, while the included bag and bits help keep the kit together. Compared with the DEWALT DCK240C2, this set lists lower impact-driver torque, but specifies its drill output at 280 UWO and includes two 2 Ah batteries. It fits buyers seeking a matched pair of tools; those who already own a drill may prefer a dedicated impact-driver kit.
Pros:- Includes both a drill/driver and an impact driver
- Two 2 Ah batteries provide more listed capacity than the CMCF800C1 kit battery
- Two drill speed ranges support controlled fastening and faster drilling
- Includes a charger, storage bag, and two bits
Cons:- The listed 1,460 in-lbs. of impact-driver torque is below the DEWALT DCK240C2’s 1,700 in-lb. figure
- A combo kit adds a drill and accessories that single-tool buyers may not need
- The supplied battery capacity is 2 Ah per battery
Best for: DIYers building out a CRAFTSMAN V20 setup who need a drill and impact driver with two batteries for home projects.
Not ideal for: Buyers focused on maximum listed impact-driver torque or those who already own a drill and only need a standalone driver.
- Voltage:20V
- Batteries included:2 lithium-ion batteries
- Battery capacity:2 Ah
- Drill/driver speed:0–350 RPM and 0–1,500 RPM
- Drill/driver power:280 UWO
- Impact driver torque:1,460 in-lbs.
- Impact driver speed:2,800 RPM
- Impact rate:3,100 BPM
- Included accessories:Charger, storage bag, PH #2 bit, double-sided bit
Our verdict“Choose this combo for two useful V20 tools and two batteries, unless your priority is the higher listed torque of the DEWALT DCK240C2.”
How We Picked
I compared the eight options around what changes a buyer’s day-to-day experience: driving control, motor design, battery and charger availability, kit completeness, and whether each package includes a useful second tool. A bare tool can be a sensible purchase for someone already invested in its battery platform, but it is a less complete starting point than a kit. Combo kits earn consideration for buyers building a toolkit, while a standalone driver is easier to justify when a drill is already on hand.
The order favors clear fit and practical flexibility over a spec-sheet contest. The DEWALT DCF845B leads because three speeds offer a meaningful control advantage; the FLEX kit follows as a complete brushless package with two batteries. Other DEWALT models, entry-level kits, and drill combos serve narrower needs, so their placement reflects what a buyer gives up as well as what comes in the box. Product claims and listed package contents inform this comparison; it does not imply hands-on testing.
| cordless impact driver | Motor |
|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX POWERCONN | Brushless |
| DEWALT 20V MAX XR 1/4-Inch Cor | Brushless |
| GoYwato 21V Brushless Cordless | Brushless |
| DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless 3- | Brushless |
| FLEX 24V Brushless Cordless 1/ | Sensor-free brushless |
| CRAFTSMAN V20 20V MAX Cordless | — |
| DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill | — |
| CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill a | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Cordless Impact Drivers
Before choosing a driver, I’d start with the work ahead and the tools and batteries already in your shop. These broader checks help avoid paying for features that will sit unused or buying a tool that leaves you short on essentials.
Match control to the fasteners and materials
Impact drivers deliver repeated rotational force, which can make long screws and stubborn fasteners easier to drive than with many drills. That same action can damage a small screw head, strip a soft material, or drive a fastener too far if you use it without restraint. Multiple speed settings can help you start more gently and adapt to different tasks, but they do not replace a careful trigger finger. For delicate assembly, a drill with a clutch may offer more predictable control. Think about your most common jobs rather than choosing the highest power claim alone. If your work ranges from cabinet hardware to deck screws, adjustable settings can be more useful than maximum output.
Check the battery platform before comparing kits
A battery platform is a longer-term choice: compatible packs may power tools you buy later, and sharing batteries can reduce the number of chargers and spares you need. If you already own tools from DEWALT, CRAFTSMAN, or another listed brand, a bare tool could be a practical addition. Confirm the exact voltage family and battery compatibility before buying, since a familiar brand name does not make batteries interchangeable across platforms. New buyers should compare the cost and contents of a complete kit, including the charger and battery capacity. Two included batteries can keep work moving while one charges, but they add less value if you already have compatible spares. Also check whether the pack is easy to replace or expand through your usual retailer.
Decide whether a combo kit fills a real gap
A drill-and-driver combo is useful when you need one tool for drilling holes and another for driving fasteners without repeatedly changing bits. It can also be a straightforward starter package for a home workshop with no cordless tools. If you already own a capable drill, the combo’s second tool may duplicate what you have and leave less of your budget for a better driver or extra batteries. Consider the materials you drill, too: a standard cordless drill is not a substitute for a hammer drill when masonry is part of the job. Check that the included bag and batteries suit how you store and carry your tools. Buy the pair when both roles matter to you; choose a standalone driver when only driving is the gap.
Weigh brushless design against your workload
Brushless motors are designed to reduce wear from motor brushes and can use battery energy efficiently, though actual runtime depends on the task, battery, and tool design. That makes brushless models attractive for frequent or demanding work, where a tool may see long sessions and repeated use. For occasional household repairs, a brushed model may cover the basics without requiring you to pay for a feature your workload rarely tests. Do not treat “brushless” as a guarantee of more power or longer runtime in every situation. Compare controls, ergonomics, warranty details, and included batteries alongside motor type. The best fit is the package whose advantages address a real part of your routine.
Plan for fit, balance, and overhead work
Tool weight includes the battery, so bare-tool dimensions alone do not tell you how a driver will feel during a long task. A larger battery may extend work time but can make the tool more tiring when driving overhead or into tight corners. If you work in cabinets or between framing members, check the tool’s overall length and how easily you can reach the trigger and direction switch. A comfortable grip and balanced feel can matter more than a small difference in headline specifications. When possible, handle the tool with the battery attached before settling on a platform. For occasional use, also consider where the charger and spare packs will live between jobs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy a bare impact driver if I do not own batteries yet?
Usually, a complete kit is the simpler starting point because it includes the battery and charger needed to use the tool. A bare tool can still make sense if you have confirmed that your existing batteries fit the exact model and voltage platform. Compare the total package you need, not just the tool listing: one compatible battery and charger can change the value of the purchase. If you plan to add more tools from that platform, the initial battery investment may serve a broader purpose. For a one-tool household, a kit avoids hunting for compatible parts.
Can an impact driver replace my cordless drill?
An impact driver is designed primarily for driving fasteners, while a drill is generally better suited to making holes and offers a clutch for controlled screw driving. Some hex-shank drill bits work with impact drivers, but that does not make them a full replacement for a drill in every material or task. The repeated impact action can be less suitable for delicate work. If you regularly drill holes and drive screws, owning both tools is more versatile. A drill-and-driver combo can cover those jobs when you are building a toolkit from scratch.
Do I need a brushless impact driver for home repairs?
Not necessarily. For occasional repairs and light projects, a standard driver kit may provide the functions you need without making motor type the deciding factor. Brushless models are appealing for frequent use and can offer efficiency and reduced brush wear, but the benefits depend on your workload and the complete tool design. Battery availability, control settings, and comfort may affect your experience more directly. I’d pay for brushless when repeated or demanding work makes its potential advantages relevant.
Is a two-speed or three-speed driver worth choosing over a basic model?
Additional speed settings can make it easier to adapt the tool to different fasteners and reduce the chance of driving too aggressively. They are most useful when your projects vary, or when you move between delicate and demanding work. If you mainly drive similar screws into familiar materials, a simpler model may be enough. Multiple modes still require you to choose a setting and control the trigger; they do not automatically prevent damage. Consider paying for extra control when you expect to use it regularly.
When is a drill-and-impact-driver combo a better choice than a standalone driver kit?
A combo is a strong choice when you need to drill holes as well as drive fasteners and do not already own a suitable drill. It can reduce the need to swap between drilling and driving setups during a project. A standalone driver kit is usually a cleaner fit when your drill is already covered or you mainly need a fastener tool. Before choosing the bundle, check the included battery count, charger, and compatibility with tools you might add later. The extra tool only pays off if it fills a genuine need.
Conclusion
For the best overall control, I’d choose the DEWALT DCF845B, especially for varied driving tasks and buyers already on the 20V MAX platform. The best premium kit is the FLEX 24V brushless set for someone who wants two batteries and a fast charger included. For best value and a simple start, compare the BLACK+DECKER and CRAFTSMAN driver kits by the included battery, charger, and fit with tools you may own. Beginners who need both drilling and driving should look at the DEWALT or CRAFTSMAN combo kits. If you already have compatible DEWALT batteries and want a standalone driver, the DCF860B is worth a look; the GoYwato is a brushless kit option for buyers prepared to weigh its platform support carefully.
Halloween Picks
halloween
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
