How to choose a screwdriver: criteria and tips, which screwdriver to choose, as well as prices. Additional options and convenience
Professional Application involves the selection of tools for the types of work performed. The requirements may be different, but for adequate classification it is worth proceeding from the power of the screwdriver. It is indirectly characterized by the maximum torque value, battery capacity and its rated voltage. A typical generalist kit consists of three screwdrivers:
- with a capacious 10.8 V battery and a torque of up to 30 Nm - for light work and small fasteners;
- 12 or 14.4 V and CM of the order of 40-50 Nm - for solving problems of intermediate complexity;
- powerful 18-volt screwdriver with high torque - for difficult power work.
Irregular work allow the use of fewer tools and require greater versatility from them. If you plan to use a screwdriver rarely, it makes sense to pay attention to network models. At least consider them as an option for one of the tools. Another solution to the problem of battery degradation can be the use of professional lines with universal batteries, for example, from Hilti.
Finally, for occasional housework there is no need for particularly powerful devices, and the range of tasks solved at home usually does not go beyond the capabilities of 10-12-volt models. In terms of maximum torque, the most versatile screwdrivers will be 20-30 Nm. The optimal battery capacity is about 1.5 Ah.
As can be seen from our review, good quality screwdrivers are produced different companies. For occasional use, for the home, garage and cottage, models from domestic brands such as Interskol, Zubr or Enkor are perfect - reliable and at the same time inexpensive. For professional work, it is better to purchase a tool based on your financial capabilities and expected loads.
It is worth noting once again that in this rating we included the most popular models that arouse the greatest interest and are most often discussed on specialized network resources when choosing the right power tool for different tasks. The review presents the best screwdrivers mainly for household use, which are easy to find in the retail chain. If you use a similar tool in your professional activity, and in intensive mode - pay attention to manufacturers such as Festool, Fein or Milwaukee (for example, models Festool C12, Fein ASCM 18 and Milwaukee HD28 PD). True, you will have to search for these screwdrivers or order them in online stores.
We hope that our review will be useful to you - and we wish you a successful purchase!
Cordless drill and screwdriver are one of the most popular types of power tools, as they are extremely versatile. The device is capable of performing both functions conventional drill due to the high torque, it can also be used for tightening nuts and screws (like a classic screwdriver). For this purpose, the drill-driver is equipped with a clutch for switching the amount of torque. This allows you to increase the scope of work, from the usual screwing of self-tapping screws into gypsum board, to drilling holes in a concrete wall.
The presence of a battery has a positive effect on the ease of use of the tool. It can be used where there is no outlet or when the work involves frequent movement of the technician (wires constantly get tangled underfoot or the power cord is not long enough). However, you should also be aware of the disadvantages of rechargeable batteries. Firstly, they require recharging, although most models come with two batteries. Secondly, cordless drills and screwdrivers are somewhat more expensive than network ones. Thirdly, the batteries themselves are consumables, and sooner or later they fail and require replacement (depending on the intensity of use).
If we compare a regular screwdriver with a drill - a screwdriver, then the latter wins in versatility due to the function of a drill. But it loses in ergonomics and ease of use due to its greater mass.
You should also know about the key parameters of a drill/driver that you should pay attention to when choosing:
- Battery capacity. For household needs and rare use, a tool with a battery capacity of 1.2-1.5 A/h, capable of providing a charge for two to three hours, is suitable. In case of purchasing a drill-driver for a full-fledged workshop and frequent use preference should be given to more “capacious” models.
- Supply voltage. This parameter determines the amount of torque on the spindle. Simply put, the higher the supply voltage, the easier it is for the device to drill holes and screw in larger diameter screws. For home needs, a drill-driver with a 12-14 V battery is ideal.
- Maximum number of revolutions. The number of revolutions per minute characterizes the ability of the tool to screw screws (or drill holes) of a certain diameter. Since at home work most often occurs with medium sizes (6-12 mm), two speeds and 1200-1500 rpm will be quite enough.
- Torque. A key characteristic showing the “strength” of the tool. The larger this parameter, the higher the ability of the drill/driver to drill large holes and hard materials.
- Chuck device. Since no one wants to suffer with equipment, then optimal choice A screwdriver with a single-socket chuck will be available for purchase. It is extremely easy to use and has a higher degree of reliability (due to the smaller number of constituent elements).
- Optional solutions. If ergonomic parameters play a key role for you, pay attention to such additional elements as a second handle, the presence of a hammer drill function, an angular attachment for setting drills and bits, as well as an expanded set of accessories. With them, a modest tool can turn into a multifunctional device for performing professional-level work.
We bring to your attention the TOP of the best cordless drills and screwdrivers in the categories: lightweight, inexpensive and professional models.
The lightest cordless drills and drivers
The weight of a screwdriver is an important parameter, especially for those who often have to use the tool. For example, furniture assemblers, repairmen. The lighter the screwdriver, the less tired the hand (especially the wrist joint) and the easier and more comfortable it is to work.
As a rule, the lightest models are those equipped with lithium-ion batteries (Li-Ion). With the same dimensions as nickel-based batteries, Li-Ion has more high density energy. From here, you can use less battery weight without reducing the operating time of the tool. Let’s not forget about another important advantage of Li-Ion batteries - they have no memory effect, which means you don’t need to wait until the battery is completely discharged before recharging again (as you have to do with Ni-Cd and Ni-MH batteries).
Lightweight screwdrivers are a tool for professionals. We invite you to familiarize yourself with the three best cordless drills and screwdrivers in the light weight category.
3 Hitachi DS10DAL
Light weight and fast battery charging
Country: Japan
Average price: 6,290 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
An inexpensive version of a hammerless drill/driver from Hitachi, which weighs only one kilogram. Despite this, the performance indicators remain at a very high level: the keyless chuck is capable of working with drills with a diameter of 0.8 to 10 millimeters (for metal), the idle speed at peak can reach 1300 rpm, and the torque on the spindle increases up to up to 36 Nm.
The Hitachi DS10DAL's lithium-ion battery has a standard 10.8 V voltage and takes just over 40 minutes to fully recharge. Among other things, as advantages of the model, in their reviews, users highlight the comfortable position of the handle in the hand when carrying out drilling work, the equipment (additional battery + durable case with a spacious organizer), as well as well-installed lighting, which facilitates the use of the screwdriver in conditions of poor visibility.
2 Makita DF330DWE
Ultra-fast battery charging
Country: Japan
Average price: 6,490 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
The next place in the rating is the development of Japanese designers, the Makita DF330DWE hammerless drill/driver. Makita is considered one of the most popular brands of power tools. The quality and reliability of Makita tools has been confirmed by millions of users around the world.
The Makita DF330DWE model is one of the most successful in the company's line. In our TOP 3 - this is the best cordless screwdriver in terms of battery charging speed. From zero to full charge it takes only 30 minutes. True, the model is somewhat inferior in power to the leader, showing a maximum torque of 24 Nm. The device is sold in a very convenient and nice case. It is small in size, but everything you need fits in without any problems.
A distinctive feature of the model is unique system attenuation of the working area LED. After releasing the trigger, the LED does not go out immediately, but gradually. The delivery set includes two Li-Ion batteries with a capacity of 1.3 Ah.
User reviews
Advantages: lightweight, reliable, convenient case, excellent design, capacious batteries, fast battery charging, backlight
Disadvantages: not powerful enough, low quality cartridge, there is some play
Video review of Makita DF330DWE
1 Metabo PowerMaxx BS Basic 2.0Ah x2 Case
The best ratio of price and quality. The lightest screwdriver
Country: Germany
Average price: 6,800 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
- The lightest screwdriver - weights only 800 grams. With such a tool you will work for a long time without straining your hands.
- The most powerful – the model’s torque is 34 Nm. For comparison, the closest competitor Makita DF330DWE shows only 24 Nm.
- The most capacious battery is 2 Ah. In this case, the kit includes two Li-Ion batteries. So you can work without recharging for a very long time. Most best option for professional use.
It is also possible to use bits without a cartridge - this will allow you to drill a hole or unscrew a screw from hard-to-reach places.
The birthplace of the Metabo brand is Germany, but production is established in China. You shouldn’t pay special attention to this fact, since almost all popular screwdrivers today are manufactured by the “Chinese”.
The kit comes with a good set of bits, in a convenient case. The bits are of medium quality, optimal for home use. For professional work Of course, it is better to buy more durable bits.
Metabo PowerMaxx BS Basic 2.0 is the best ratio of price, quality and functionality. We recommend!
User reviews
Advantages: lightness and compactness, capacious battery, excellent equipment, convenient case, ability to work without a cartridge
Disadvantages: there are minor complaints about the quality of the plastic, the handle is a bit thick
Metabo PowerMaxx video review
The best inexpensive cordless screwdrivers: budget up to 5,000 rubles.
Budget models of screwdrivers are purchased mainly for household needs and minor repairs. Their further exploitation does not impose excessive load on the tool. The maximum torque of cheap models often does not exceed 10 Nm - this power is enough for tightening screws, but this is clearly not enough for drilling holes in concrete.
3 Bort BAB-14Ux2Li-FDK
Best price
Country: China
Average price: 2,250 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5
An interesting budget model of a universal screwdriver from Chinese brand, which, in fact, became the replacement of the rather controversial Bort BAB-12-P device. Of all the advantages that this particular version is endowed with, special mention should be made of the fundamental change in the power battery. And not just one: the kit includes two batteries, not nickel, but lithium-ion, without memory effect. Now one full charge lasts for about four to five hours, and recharging takes no more than one hour. True, a small flaw was discovered here: some users complain about the “unreliable” power supply, which begins to hum when connected to the network.
Among the other “chips” of the model, we can highlight the presence of reverse, electrically adjustable spindle speed, as well as the engine brake function as a measure to prevent accidents. The idle speed was 1350 per minute, and the maximum torque was 30 Nm. In general, a good tool for home use, and at a very modest price.
2 VORTEX DA-18L-2K
Excellent workmanship. High level reliability
Country Russia
Average price: 3,980 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
VORTEX DA-18L-2K – a positive reflection of the experience adopted from the pillars of the market construction tools, which includes a number of targeted modifications to expand the scope of work performed. It is noteworthy that none of them concerns constructive solutions, allowing you to significantly increase the spindle speed (here it is 1250 rpm) and influence the torque (28 Nm). However, domestic craftsmen still offered consumers interesting option with the ability to vary the speed over the entire permissible range in order to maintain the charge of the already not very capacious battery (only 1.3 Ah).
Perhaps the main mystery of the design of the VIKHR DA-18L-2K remains where such excess weight came from - 2.2 kilograms for budget model With such characteristics, to put it mildly, it’s a bit much. Otherwise, there are no complaints about the screwdriver - the charging indicators work properly, the backlight is really useful for once, and the equipment covers all “period-use” needs.
1 PATRIOT BR 201Li
Capacious replaceable battery (2 Ah). The best ratio of price and quality
Country: China
Average price: 4,990 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
An inexpensive cordless screwdriver of Chinese origin, which is a kind of “workhorse” with low performance standards for everyday household needs. main feature PATRIOT BR 201Li – capacious battery (2 Ah) with high voltage(20 V) and an ultra-fast charging function that takes only one hour.
From an operational point of view, this model does not present anything outstanding, at least in the most obvious indicators. At idle, the spindle produces up to 1350 rpm, while the torque falls just short of the round number, stopping at 29 Nm. However, consumers express tacit agreement with the power indicators of the tool, noting the advantages of good spot lighting, as well as the presence of a “living” fuse that blocks the power button.
The best professional cordless screwdrivers
The prefix “professional” in the name of these screwdrivers speaks for itself - the tool of this group is intended for carrying out serious installation and construction work and meets the highest requirements for quality and performance. The main features of the models in this group are increased spindle speeds (not lower than 1350 rpm), high torque (from 50 Nm), as well as an abundance additional elements design and built-in functions.
3 Bosch GSR 180-LI 1.5Ah x2 Case
Best package
Country: Germany
Average price: 7,340 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7
The rating opens with a level model of a screwdriver from the German company Bosch, which shows excellent power characteristics. According to consumers, the first months of operation of the GSR 180-LI 1.5Ah x2 Case pass without a single complaint: the two-speed machine copes well with drilling holes of small and large diameters (up to 35 mm for wood and up to 10 mm for metal), fortunately, the torque is 54 Nm allows such operations.
The main problem begins to appear at the stage long-term operation(from six months or more) and is expressed in failure keyless chuck. On some specimens, runout begins to appear, which, of course, negatively affects the accuracy of the hole being drilled. And if in non-critical work on metal (taking into account the maximum diameter of the drill) this fact is not critical, then drilling on wood can cause a lot of trouble. As a screwdriver, the Bosch GSR 180-LI 1.5Ah is ideal without the slightest complaints.
2 AEG BS 18G2 Li-152C
Best torque
Country: Germany
Average price: 10,080 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7
The AEG BS 18G2 Li-152C occupies an honorable place in the ranking of professional screwdrivers. The screwdriver was invented in Germany, but is currently manufactured in China. The practice of locating production facilities in China is now used by almost every brand of power tools.
What positive things would I like to note about this screwdriver? Firstly, this is a maximum torque of 50 Nm - one of the best indicators in the rating. Secondly, it is very well thought out ergonomics. So, in the body of the drill-driver there is a special socket for attaching bits. This allows you to keep the most popular bits at hand, rather than putting them on the floor or in your pocket. Yes, maybe this adds additional weight to the tool, but no one forces you to put all the bits - it’s enough to take 2-3 of the most popular ones for the current job.
It is also worth noting the presence of a quick-release chuck, spot lighting and torque adjustment. AEG BS 18G2 Li-152C has a strict and, in a sense, aggressive design.
A clear disadvantage of the AEG BS 18G2, according to user reviews, is its weight of 1.8 kg. Otherwise, this is a great model. One of the best screwdrivers for professionals.
1 DeWALT DCD791D2
Most high rate torque on the spindle (70 Nm)
Country: USA
Average price: RUB 17,580.
Rating (2019): 5.0
A high-performance cordless screwdriver from DeWalt that can meet the needs of any user in professional field activities. Despite the increased dimensions of individual components, American developers managed to keep the weight of the product at 1.5 kilograms, which is the best indicator in the category. At the same time, the operating modes were modernized (relative to older versions): the spindle speed increased to an impressive 2000 rpm, and the torque increased to 70 Nm. Thanks to these indicators, users have a unique opportunity to work with viscous and stubborn materials, drilling or screwing connecting elements (screws, screws, etc.) into them.
In addition to the above, a huge number of options and functions have been added to the DeWALT DCD791D2, ranging from the ability to regulate the rotation speed and ending with the notorious rotation reversal. It is also worth noting the brushless motor at the heart of the design - no problems with switching, and, consequently, an increased operating life.
The best mid-range drills and drivers
Cordless drills and screwdrivers of the semi-professional level do not always differ from budget ones in improved performance indicators (torque value, rotation speed, etc.), representing superiority in a single basic complex. As a rule, their main difference is higher assembly quality, increased working life, and the presence of additional functions.
3 BLACK+DECKER BDCDC18K
Original balance of basic operating parameters. Low price
Country: USA
Average price: 4,030 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.6
Not the best famous company on the territory of Russia, which not so long ago existed in the realities of a purely American market, presented to domestic users a whole line of inexpensive cordless screwdrivers with a drill function. The most paradoxical in this selection was the BLACK+DECKER BDCDC18K model, an average level, but with a very specific set of performance characteristics. The maximum rotation speed here barely reaches 650 rpm, which imposes a number of restrictions on the ability to drill holes in dense metal. In this case, the torque on the chuck can increase up to 30 Nm, which in some cases allows you to use 10 mm drills.
Despite the strange configuration of operating parameters, the BLACK+DECKER BDCDC18K was very popular with buyers who saw in it the potential for performing ordinary household functions (according to the vast majority of reviews). Ergonomics are excellent, the battery lasts a long time, all additional gadgets work properly - what else is needed for comfortable work?
2 DeWALT DCD710C2
High degree of reliability
Country: Germany
Average price: 6,190 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7
Regarding the DeWALT DCD710C2 drill-driver, there is a rather contradictory opinion: on the one hand, this model has all necessary characteristics for a home workshop tool, and not at the very entry level. On the other hand, an abundance of safety margins and constructive balance cannot compensate for scarcity technical characteristics and quite high cost.
The whole essence of the claims converges on the key operating parameters: the maximum number of spindle turns at idle and a torque of 1500 rpm and 24 Nm. Such parameters will be quite sufficient for carrying out work with soft varieties wood and thin sheet metal, not requiring much effort from rotary mechanism and, as a result, a large torque for turning the chuck with a drill or a bit for a screw. The rest of the wealth of materials, alas, is beyond the power of a screwdriver. Therefore, if the priority is to carry out purely light work, and high operational reliability elements and the device itself, the DeWALT DCD710C2 is the optimal, but expensive option, and it’s worth preparing for this in advance.
1 Hitachi DS18DVF3
Optimal combination of price and quality
Country: Japan
Average price: 8,590 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
Another battery representative from Hitachi, based on the use of nickel-cadmium batteries with a long service life of capacitive plates. Despite the low rotation speed (1200 rpm), the DS18DVF3 produces 45 Nm of torque, which is enough to fully replace a drill in everyday life.
According to consumer reviews this tool has high impact endurance - the rubberized body perfectly protects the “insides” from mechanical damage, allowing you to survive falls from decent heights (3-5 meters). From characteristic advantages Good ergonomics and a fairly wide range of diameters of drilling tools supported by the chuck for drilling work are also noted. Of the nuances, the most common complaint is about the low capacity of the batteries: for comfortable operation in the given modes, 1.4 Ah is still not enough.
Almost everyone home handyman on the farm you simply need a drill and screwdriver, as this indispensable tool under circumstances requiring repairs to the apartment or repair of equipment. Therefore, if you are used to everything homework to do it yourself, without turning to specialists for help, you need to think about purchasing a drill/driver. This tool will make completing your tasks several times easier. If you decide to follow the advice and purchase a drill-driver, then you will need to know some information that will facilitate the selection process, or rather, allow you to make it right. How to choose a drill/screwdriver correctly? Which cordless drill will last the most?
You can use a screwdriver when working with various materials, this is both a tree and metal surfaces, concrete walls, if necessary, small-diameter holes are also subject to a drill-screwdriver. The only exception may be work that involves a large-scale process. In this case, it is better to use more powerful tools, such as a hammer drill.
Reasons for choosing a drill/driver
What can influence the desire to purchase a screwdriver? Select it as irreplaceable home tool? Everything is very simple. Using a simple drill normal looking or screwdrivers for performing work on securing building materials and other purposes is not always convenient and appropriate.
First you need to select a drill the right size, then prepare holes at the designated points, and then start selecting screws or other fasteners appropriate for the task being performed. All this takes precious time, and the quality of work leaves much to be desired. This is due to the formation of the so-called backlash between the material being fastened, or more precisely, between the prepared hole and the fastener itself. This does not apply to the operation of a drill-driver.
The fundamental distinguishing feature of a drill-driver from the usual version This tool (including screwdrivers) is considered to be capable of working with surfaces of any quality, with almost no exceptions. In addition, the described tool will allow you to perform the required function with high quality, as a result of which you will receive ideal adhesion of the screw (screw) to the material and surface.
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And if you use special self-tapping screws designed to work with this tool, then you are guaranteed protection provided by a treatment that prevents the impact of an aggressive environment on their surface.
But that is not all positive sides choosing a screwdriver as a tool for the home. Others will be discussed below. Let's look at how to choose a cordless drill.
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Basic rules for choosing a screwdriver
So, how to choose the right drill? Before you go to the store to buy a drill/driver, decide what you need the tool for and what work you intend to do with it. It can be useful both for large-scale construction and for ordinary use to solve everyday problems.
It is the tasks of using a drill-driver that will primarily determine its choice. Based on its purpose, you can choose the right drill/screwdriver and its parameters.
Models with a higher battery voltage will be more powerful, which means they can easily cope with the most difficult tasks.
But do not forget that this figure increases simultaneously with the weight of the tool. That is why the purpose of using a drill-driver was mentioned above. Why buy a heavy tool with a power of 36 V, if a model with a voltage of 12 V will be enough for you to solve everyday problems? Pay special attention to this when choosing.
There is one more important criterion, which determines the choice of drill. We are talking about rotational speed. The operating mode of the tool depends on it.
Remember that in slow mode the cordless drill/driver operates when drilling holes that are quite large in diameter. In contrast, the high speed mode is used to make small to medium sized holes. In specialized stores you will most likely find models that have two operating speeds. But there are also screwdrivers that have a three-speed rotor, which ensures optimal operation.
Let's move on to familiarize ourselves with such a parameter as torque. Depending on its indicator, the ability to overcome resistance also changes. The larger it is, the greater the degree of resistance it will be subject to. When choosing a drill/driver, do not forget about it, as it is quite important for the quality of work.
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Now a few words about the cartridge. They come in two types: with two couplings and with one. Which one is better? Opinions differ on this matter. But if you turn to practice, it becomes clear that a cartridge with one clutch has great advantages compared to its double-clutch counterpart. One of the advantages is easier installation of equipment.
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Additional criteria
What else should you pay attention to when you need to choose a screwdriver? The adjustment clutch is also a useful element. Its capabilities include setting the desired torque indicator. This device can also prevent the occurrence of a malfunction of the nozzle due to incorrect calculation of the capabilities of the tool (its strength).
Experts advise testing it before purchasing a drill and screwdriver. To do this, turn on the screwdriver at the lowest speed, and at this time try to hold the chuck with your hand. As a result of these actions, you will determine the capabilities of the coupling and understand whether you will be comfortable working with this model of tool.
https://site/youtu.be/dpXJ3H1Ptms
Now about batteries and their type. When going for a drill/driver, be sure to read the information describing the batteries. Please note that all batteries are divided into three main types. This:
- So-called nickel-cadmium batteries. The most famous and quite accessible view batteries. No certain conditions are required for their proper operation. Operation possible even with low temperatures. They can be stored for a long time without regular use, this will not affect their working condition in any way.
- Another type is nickel-metal hydride batteries. This option is particularly environmentally friendly; the capacity of such batteries is an order of magnitude higher than the previous ones, which means that charging is required less often (about 2 times).
- Finally, lithium-ion batteries. This type can be called the most expensive battery. Modern technologies made them lightweight with a large capacity, with low self-discharge; it should also be noted that there is no charge memory.
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After familiarizing yourself with possible options batteries, it is necessary to say a few words about chargers for them.
https://site/youtu.be/WKbXRTSdEpY
Older models of chargers charge drill batteries within several hours, approximately 3 to 5. More modern options have the amazing ability to charge in just one hour, and sometimes less.
But do not forget that depending on the continuation of the charging period, the properties of the charger to the process of its cooling depend. If you are reading this article, it means you have started renovating your home or are just starting this process and are thinking which cordless screwdriver is better to buy so you don’t regret it later. Choosing one is not so easy, since manufacturers offer hundreds of different options with many functions, different characteristics
, weight, voltage, shape, type of cartridges and bits... This list can be continued for a long time, since a similar tool is produced to solve each individual problem.
Expensive does not mean good. If you need a reliable screwdriver for your home or garden, and you are simply going to buy the most expensive tool with the hope that it will be better than others, you are deeply mistaken. Often, overpayment occurs for additional functions that only a professional needs, but an ordinary user will not even notice. For example, why overpay 2,500 rubles for impulse tightening or a couple of hundred for an extra torque mode? Now we will tell you what is really important for a novice builder, and which is the best screwdriver for working at home or in the country!
Let's start with something simple: choose the right shape and determine how large a cordless drill/driver should be in order to be convenient and not lose too much precious battery capacity. Here size doesn’t just matter – it’s very important. If the drill is too heavy, you'll be cursing everything and everyone after 1-2 hours of driving screws into the drywall on the ceiling. If you buy a screwdriver, you will not be able to drive the screw into the tree more than 3 cm.
The most popular screwdriver for screwing plasterboard sheets weighs from 1.8 to 2.4 kg. But if you are going to do not only Finishing work, but also to drill wood, profiles and metal sheets, then it will be more convenient to take a tool weighing 2.5–3 kg. If the tool will be used frequently as a drill, and you plan to work with drills larger than 8 mm in diameter, then It would be better to give preference to models with a weight of 2.5 kg and a large battery.
Now a little about ergonomics. Form is also very important. Now we will tell you how to choose a cordless drill/driver for your home, so that your hands don’t get chafed and it’s convenient to do everything. First pay attention to the angle between the handle and the body. If the angle is less than 90 degrees, there will be problems. After an hour of work, the thumb will be very rubbed. Also keep in mind, that a cartridge raised too high can be a problem. Such tools are taken for work on the ceiling, but turning them on walls and on the floor will be inconvenient; with constant pressure, your hands will get very tired.
Now about the buttons. The reverse should be turned on and off by the hand in which you are holding the tool while working, since with the other hand you are holding building materials or yourself. Switching with two hands is not safe. If the reverse or speed button is not within the reach of the index or thumb– this will become a problem soon.
Medium size drill/driver 
Choosing a battery for a screwdriver
Now let's talk a little about the power source, since it is very important and the duration of work, comfort on the construction site, and the weight of the device depend on it. Of course, you can buy several batteries at once and change them, but the issue of battery durability, voltage, frost resistance and self-discharge is not off the agenda. What parameters should you use to choose a cordless screwdriver and its battery in this case? Let's consider the main types of autonomous power supplies.
Nickel-cadmium batteries. The advantages include their maximum resistance to full discharge - they can be stored like this for a long time and nothing will happen to them. It is very convenient to take with you on trips, where there may be no electricity for 2-3 days and there is nothing to charge (dacha). They can also be exposed to frost and are inexpensive, which makes them attractive to consumers, but there are also disadvantages:
- The batteries last no more than 1000 cycles and have a small capacity.
- It must be completely discharged, otherwise the next time you use it, it will work much less.
- Self-discharge is high. In 5-7 days the battery is completely drained, be prepared for surprises.
Batteries remain popular only because their cost is a level lower, but if you need a reliable professional screwdriver, then this option is clearly not for you - it fails too often. In addition, the weight also leaves much to be desired.
Nickel metal hydride batteries. The advantages of this type of battery are: high capacity, small dimensions of the product, virtually no charge storage (can be recharged halfway) and environmental friendliness. It would seem that a reliable screwdriver for the home can already be equipped with such a power source, but now let’s look at the disadvantages:
- funerals can be organized after just 500 charging cycles;
- the cost of a screwdriver with a nickel-metal hydride battery will not please you;
- It also discharges quickly, within 1 day about 10% of the charge is lost;
- You cannot store a “dead” battery, you need to charge it;
- This “Chinese comrade” is very afraid of frost, apparently they did not count on exploitation in Russia.
Fortunately, it is quite difficult to find such a battery now, so even an inexpensive and reliable screwdriver already comes mainly with lithium-ion sources, and these “miracles” have faded into the background.
Lithium-ion batteries. Traditionally, let's start with the advantages of these products: the specific capacity is high compared to previous models, you can recharge at any time, regardless of the remaining charge of the battery, and they also do not discharge almost (no more than 20% can go in one year). Despite this, the batteries charge very quickly, depending on the model, from 30 minutes to approximately 2 hours. The service life is about 2000-3000 cycles, although it is quite difficult to measure - they are tenacious. If you are looking for the most reliable and inexpensive screwdriver, then it will definitely be powered by a lithium-ion battery, although cost is a second issue. Flaws:
- Doesn't like big frosts (actually, nothing likes them...).
- It costs a level more than its predecessors.
- There must be a minimum charge control system, otherwise it will be impossible to charge when completely discharged.
Now we will answer the question, which is the best cordless screwdriver to choose. If you will be drilling a lot, overpay and buy a lithium-ion battery, this is definitely better, but if you are using it for the home to tighten something up or do a one-time ceiling, buy a lithium-cadmium battery, it is much cheaper. As for capacity, everything is individual. For some, 1.3 Ah is enough, for others, a more powerful one is needed to drill for 5-6 hours, but then you will have to carry a heavy tool. Our advice: it is better to buy a spare lightweight battery if 1.3 Ah is not enough.
Selecting torque, impact and drill bits for a drill/driver
Is it worth taking a powerful device or is it better to save money, is a blow necessary or not, why use large drills at all? Now we will tell you how to choose a cordless screwdriver for your home, relying on its characteristics and numbers that are written in technical passport this product.
“Why does a goat need a button accordion” or why does a cordless drill have a strike function? This question is asked by many, since there are always doubts about the relevance of loading light hand tool such technologies. You pay an additional 1000 rubles and you already have an impact screwdriver. It’s heavier, more massive, but it still won’t be able to make many holes in concrete, for this you need a hammer drill, and constantly depriving yourself of comfort for the sake of a couple of holes is a dubious pleasure.
Photo of an impact drill/driver
Now about the torque - this is already important. 14-24 Nm is suitable for installing light structures made of plasterboard, plywood, OSB boards. If you need to work with thick boards, drill ceramics or concrete with a crown, then it is better to take 36 Nm. If you are in doubt which good screwdriver, and which one is not - judge from the torque, it decides a lot. If it is more than 36 Nm, then it is suitable for drilling metal and working with large drills.
Now a little about the diameter of the drills. Even if you bought a cordless screwdriver with the characteristics of a corded drill, it will not replace it. You shouldn’t take tools with a torque of 80-120 Nm in the hope of working with 10-12 mm drills for metal - it won’t work anyway, and besides, its cost will be 5 times more than a simple cordless screwdriver and a simple corded drill combined . Is it worth it?
As for revolutions per minute, this is not so important, since the standard 1400 rpm is enough for everyone, and professional models that go at 2400 or more are already too much and are necessary only in very specific situations, when the tool is used for non-standard solutions.
We told you which cordless drill/driver to choose and what characteristics you need to look at. But there is one very important point. Where is the confidence that the numbers are correct? Many Chinese and even European manufacturers inflate data to make the tool more attractive to consumers. As a result, you read a lot of literature, ask a neighbor or friend how to choose a cordless drill/driver, buy equipment with 80 Nm of power, impact, a cool battery, high speed, but what you end up with is a useless piece of iron. To do this, you still need to get to know the manufacturers.
Choosing a manufacturer of cordless screwdrivers
The choice is great. Show your money in the store and they will immediately offer you overseas items from the USA, Europe, China, Japan, even Australia. But here, as the joke says, “God created the Chinese, and they have already done everything else in the world.” The comparison is not very good, I agree, but 95% of all power tools are still from China, since even global brands have located their factories there and purchase local raw materials and workers. Here is an example of a Makita made in China (although the instrument is considered Japanese). 
Is this bad? It depends on how conscientiously the factory treats its product, which is what we’ll talk about. The most reliable cordless screwdrivers are considered to be Hilti, Makita, Hitachi and Bosch. This is popular opinion and ratings, you can look at them on the Internet, fortunately there are enough of them. Now let’s express our subjective opinion (this is in no way an advertisement for anything!).
The golden mean in Russia is Bosch. The quality is average, but the price is quite high, they charge quite a lot for the name of the company, not like 5 – 10 years ago. As for the American Hilti - good devices, no doubt, but the price is clearly 2 times too high, designed for prestige + customers buy more warranty period, it makes sense to purchase only for harsh operating conditions, where this guarantee will come in handy.
Makita is an interesting option. When you ask which cordless screwdriver to choose, friends always recommend their devices, although grinders and rotary hammers have not proven themselves very well. As for cordless drills and screwdrivers, Makita can do very good things, but the price is not the lowest, of course.
If you are thinking about how to choose a cheaper cordless screwdriver, you can pay attention to Interskol - of course, its dimensions and appearance inferior to overseas goods, the characteristics are a little overestimated and all that, but it’s cheap, strictly and at any market it will be repaired for a couple of hundred rubles. There is another option to take Sparky or Skill, but keep in mind: that this is already a lottery and manufacturers are greatly inflating the characteristics. Although, for many people, even definitely Chinese models serve quite well, the main thing is not to overload them.
We have provided advice on how to choose a cordless screwdriver, we also recommend looking at other reviews on the Internet, and listening to the advice of experienced builders you know, since you still need to pay attention to service in your city - it may simply not be available.
