Best Impact Drivers 2026 - Buying Guide

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Best Impact Drivers 2026: Buyers Guide

Choosing the best impact driver can still be a bit of a head scratcher, even if you’ve used one before. With so many models on the market, it’s not always clear what actually matters or which one is worth your money. Whether you’re a tradesperson on site every day or a DIYer taking on bigger projects at home, getting the right tool makes a big difference.

If you’re searching for the best impact driver, this guide breaks it down properly. We’ll cover what to look for, which models stand out in 2026, and how to choose something that suits the way you work.

If you’re ready to compare options, you can also browse our cordless impact drivers and see what’s currently available.

What to Look For When Buying An Impact Driver

There’s no single “best” impact driver for everyone. It depends on what you’re using it for. That said, there are a few things that matter more than anything else.

Power Source

Most impact drivers now are cordless, running on lithium-ion battery platforms like DeWalt XR or Makita LXT. Cordless is the standard for a reason. It gives you flexibility on site and keeps things simple.

If you already own tools from a brand, stick with that battery system. It saves money and keeps your kit consistent.

Pro tip: If you’re already on a platform, go body only and use your existing batteries.

Torque (Nm)

Torque is what actually drives screws in. The higher the torque, the easier it is to drive long fixings into dense materials.

For most work:

Around 150–180Nm covers general use
200Nm and above is better for heavier trade work

Pro tip: More torque isn’t always better. Control matters just as much, especially for smaller fixings.

Speed & Control Modes

Better impact drivers now come with multiple speed settings or control modes. These help you adjust how aggressive the tool feels.

Lower speeds are useful for delicate work. Higher speeds are for driving long screws or working quickly.

Some models also include specific modes for self drilling screws or precision fastening.

Pro tip: If you do a mix of work, look for a model with at least two or three speed settings.

Impact Rate (IPM)

IPM stands for impacts per minute. This is how often the internal hammer mechanism engages.

Higher IPM means smoother, faster driving under load.

Pro tip: IPM works alongside torque. It is not just about raw power but how that power is delivered.

Brushless Motor

Brushless motors are now standard on most higher-end impact drivers.

They:

Run cooler
Last longer
Deliver better efficiency

For regular use, brushless is the better option.

Size and Weight

Compact impact drivers are easier to use in tight spaces and overhead.

Heavier models can offer more power but may become tiring over long periods.

Pro tip: If you work in kitchens, roofing or confined spaces, a compact model is worth it.

Ergonomics

This often gets overlooked, but it matters.

Look for:

Comfortable grip
Balanced weight
Easy trigger control

If you’re using the tool all day, this makes a noticeable difference.

Battery Compatibility

Stick to one platform where possible.

DeWalt XR and Makita LXT both offer wide ranges of tools that share batteries. This keeps your kit flexible and reduces cost over time.

You can browse DeWalt batteries and Makita batteries on ToolStore UK if you’re building out your setup.

Our Top Impact Driver Picks For 2026

If you just want a quick answer, here’s a shortlist based on what we see selling and performing well:

Best overall impact driver: DeWalt DCF850N

Best DeWalt impact driver: DeWalt DCF850N

Best Makita impact driver: Makita DTD153Z

Best compact impact driver: Makita DTD1527

Best value impact driver: Makita DTD152Z

You can compare cordless impact drivers here to see current stock and pricing.

Best DeWalt Impact Driver

DeWalt tools continue to be one of the most popular choices for trades, especially if you are already using the XR platform.

Best All Round DeWalt Impact Driver

The DeWalt DCF850N is one of the strongest all round options. It is compact but still delivers serious power, making it suitable for most site work.

It’s a good fit if you want one tool that can handle a bit of everything without being oversized.

Best For Compact Work

The DCF850N also stands out for its size. If you are working in tight spaces, kitchens or overhead, the shorter body makes it easier to handle.

Best For Heavy Duty Use

For more demanding work, higher output models like the DCF845 or newer releases in the range are worth considering. These are better suited to repetitive heavy fixing and longer screws.

If you are invested in DeWalt already, you can browse DeWalt impact drivers to compare models directly.

Best Makita Impact Driver

Makita tools remain a solid choice, especially for users already on the LXT platform.

Best All Round Makita Impact Driver

The Makita DTD153Z continues to be a reliable, well balanced option. It offers strong performance without being too aggressive, which suits a wide range of jobs.

Best For Heavy Duty Use

For more demanding work, models like the DTD172Z offer higher performance and more control settings. These are better suited to full time trade use.

Makita tools are known for consistency and durability, which is why many trades stick with them long term.

You can browse Makita impact drivers to see the full range.

Cordless Impact Drivers

Cordless is now the standard.

Modern battery platforms deliver more than enough power for most jobs, and the convenience of working without cables is hard to beat.

Both DeWalt XR and Makita LXT systems are widely used and offer strong performance across a full range of tools.

If you are building a kit, it is worth thinking long term. Sticking to one platform makes everything simpler.

Impact Driver Vs Impact Wrench

These tools often get mixed up, but they are built for different jobs.

Impact driver:

Driving screws and fasteners
General site use
Compact and versatile

Impact wrench:

Large bolts and nuts
Automotive and heavy-duty work
Much higher torque

If you are working with timber, fixings and general construction, an impact driver is what you need.

For larger fixings and mechanical work, look at impact wrenches instead.

Impact Driver Vs Drill Driver

This is one of the most common questions.

A drill driver is better for:

Drilling holes
Light screwdriving
More controlled work

An impact driver is better for:

Driving long screws
High resistance fixing
Repetitive fastening

Most tradespeople use both. The drill handles drilling, while the impact driver handles the heavier fastening work.

If you are comparing options, it is also worth looking at the best combi drills to pair with your impact driver.

Do You Need Special Bits For An Impact Driver?

Yes, and this is important.

Impact drivers should be used with impact rated bits. Standard bits can wear out quickly or snap under the higher torque.

Impact rated bits are designed to handle the force produced by the tool and last longer in regular use.

If you are buying an impact driver, it is worth picking up impact rated sets or screwdriving sets at the same time.

Best Impact Drivers FAQs

What is the best impact driver UK?

There is no single answer, but models like the DeWalt DCF850N and Makita DTD153Z are among the most popular for a reason. They offer a strong balance of power, size and reliability.

What is the best DeWalt impact driver?

The DeWalt DCF850N is one of the best all round options, especially for users who want a compact but powerful tool.

What is the best Makita impact driver?

The Makita DTD153Z is a solid choice for general use, while newer models offer more advanced features for heavier work.

Are impact drivers better than drills?

Not better, just different. Impact drivers are better for driving screws, while drills are better for drilling holes and lighter work.

Do I need special bits?

Yes. Impact rated bits are designed to handle the torque and last longer than standard bits.

What torque do I need?

For general use, around 150–180Nm is enough. For heavier work, look for 200Nm or more.

Find The Right Impact Driver For Your Work

The best impact driver is the one that matches how you work.

If you are doing regular site work, a brushless, high torque model is worth it. If you are using it occasionally, a more compact or entry level option may be enough.

At ToolStore UK, we stock a wide range of cordless impact drivers, along with batteries, chargers and accessories to match.

Browse the range, compare your options, and if you need a hand choosing, call our team on 03330 043777 or fill in our online contact form and we will point you in the right direction.