Choosing the best cordless drill and impact driver set can feel overwhelming with so many brands and configurations on the market. And here’s the thing: not all tool combos deliver the power, runtime, and versatility you actually need.
But wait—there’s more. If you’re already exploring the best cordless drill options or comparing the best cordless drill and screwdriver set, understanding how an impact driver fits into your workflow will help you make a smarter buying decision. After all, impact drivers offer unbeatable fastening power, while drills provide precision and control for clean, accurate holes.
Thinking about premium brands? Many pros swear by the best Milwaukee cordless drill for its performance and durability, but every combo has strengths depending on your needs.
So what’s the bottom line? This review will walk you through the top features, real-world advantages, and expert-level insights to help you pick a tool set worth your investment.
Our Top Picks:
Best Compact Power: DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver
Thanks to its compact 7.6-inch profile and lightweight build, this DEWALT DCK277D2 combo quickly stands out as an easy-to-handle solution for tight or awkward spaces. The brushless power delivery feels efficient and consistent, giving the drill and impact driver plenty of strength for most home improvement and light professional tasks. The 1500 in-lbs torque rating and up to 2800 RPM provide enough muscle for driving long screws, tackling pilot holes, or handling denser materials without feeling underpowered. The variable-speed trigger adds the level of finesse needed when working on delicate surfaces, while the ergonomic grip creates a natural balance that reduces fatigue during longer sessions. The LED light—with its 20-second delay—makes a noticeable difference when working under shelves, inside cabinets, or around poorly lit corners. The quick-release hex chuck also helps shift between tasks faster, especially during projects with frequent bit changes.
From a user’s perspective, most owners appreciate the portability and reliable battery life from the two included lithium-ion packs, noting that downtime between charges is minimal. The kit bag and charger round out a ready-to-use setup that suits both DIY users and pros who need a dependable secondary kit. Some buyers mention that the hex chuck limits certain bit types compared with a standard keyless chuck, but overall, the performance-to-size ratio earns consistently positive feedback.
Best All-Around Value: CRAFTSMAN V20 MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver
Built for everyday drilling and fastening, the CRAFTSMAN V20 MAX combo kit delivers a surprisingly capable mix of power and convenience. The CMCD700 drill’s 280 UWO motor and two-speed gearbox (0–350 / 0–1,500 RPM) make it versatile enough to handle light woodworking, home repairs, and medium-duty DIY tasks without bogging down. The CMCF800 impact driver steps things up with 1,460 in-lbs of torque and speeds up to 2,800 RPM and 3,100 BPM, giving users plenty of force for lag screws, framing connectors, or stubborn fasteners. Both tools feel refined in hand thanks to their compact design and contoured over-molded grips, making extended use more comfortable than expected for an 8.4-pound total kit. The integrated LED lights help illuminate darker corners, and the drop-and-load one-hand bit change on the impact driver speeds up workflow when switching bits frequently.
From a user standpoint, buyers often highlight the kit’s overall value—two tools, two batteries, and a charger at a competitive price point. Most find the performance more than enough for routine jobs around the house, with smooth speed transitions and dependable torque output. While the 2Ah batteries work well for typical DIY sessions, some users note they drain faster during heavy fastening, especially with the impact driver. Even so, the balance of power, comfort, and ease of use keeps this kit highly rated among homeowners and casual pros looking for a reliable, affordable setup.
Best Fastening Power: CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit
With 1,460 in-lbs of torque and speeds up to 2,800 RPM (3,100 IPM), the CRAFTSMAN CMCF800C1 impact driver delivers the punch needed for fast, confident fastening. It handles screws, lag bolts, and larger fasteners without hesitation, making it a dependable choice for home projects and light contractor use. The variable-speed trigger provides smooth control when starting on delicate materials, while the compact housing helps keep the tool maneuverable in tighter spots. Its quick-release 1/4-inch chuck stands out in daily use—switching bits one-handed feels natural and keeps workflow moving. The LED work light is bright enough to illuminate dark corners or under-cabinet spaces, improving accuracy when lining up fasteners.
From a user’s perspective, the performance-to-weight balance is one of the most praised aspects. Owners typically find the torque output impressive for the size, and the tool feels sturdy without being fatiguing. The included 1.3Ah battery is convenient for short to medium tasks, though many note that it drains quickly during heavy fastening, especially with lag bolts or long screws. Despite that limitation, most users consider it an excellent entry-level or secondary impact driver—fast, easy to handle, and reliable for everyday jobs around the house.
FAQs
Is it better to drill with an impact driver or drill?
Both tools can drill holes, but the better choice depends on the material and precision required. A drill is ideal for clean, accurate holes in wood, metal, or plastic. It allows precise speed control and uses a wide variety of drill bits. An impact driver, however, delivers rotational impacts that provide far more torque. This lets it power through tougher materials or drive long screws with less effort. While an impact driver can drill using hex-shank bits, the holes may be rougher and less accurate. For general drilling, choose a drill. For heavy fastening or drilling in dense material, an impact driver can help.
Can a cordless drill be used as an impact driver?
A cordless drill can perform many fastening tasks, but it cannot replace an impact driver when high torque is required. Drills deliver consistent rotational force, but they lack the concussive impacts that allow an impact driver to drive long or thick screws with ease. Trying to use a drill like an impact driver may cause the drill to stall, overheat, or strip screw heads. While a drill handles light-to-medium fastening well, it simply isn’t designed for demanding tasks like deck building, automotive work, or driving lag bolts. For those, an impact driver is the superior tool.
What is the highest rated cordless drill?
While ratings vary by model and year, consistently top-rated cordless drills come from brands such as DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee. Models like the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Drill Driver, DeWalt 20V MAX XR, and Makita XFD13 routinely earn high marks for power, reliability, battery efficiency, and ergonomics. These drills often include brushless motors, variable speed settings, durable housings, and long-lasting lithium-ion batteries. If you're looking for the absolute highest rated option, professional reviewers frequently score the Milwaukee M18 Fuel line at the top for its unmatched torque and build quality.
What is the best brand of cordless impact driver?
The best brand depends on whether you prioritize power, durability, value, or battery ecosystem. However, Milwaukee, Makita, and DeWalt dominate industry rankings. Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel impact drivers are known for extreme torque and advanced electronics. Makita offers exceptional ergonomics and smooth operation, making them ideal for long work sessions. DeWalt impact drivers are favored for their balance, wide bit compatibility, and robust battery platform. For professional-grade performance, Milwaukee often leads the pack, but all three brands offer excellent tools for various budgets and needs.
Conclusion
Choosing the best cordless drill and impact driver set ultimately comes down to understanding your workload, preferred features, and long-term tool ecosystem. Whether you value Milwaukee’s power, Makita’s precision, or DeWalt’s balance and reliability, a well-matched combo kit will transform your efficiency on any project. With the insights above, you’re now equipped to invest in a high-quality set that delivers dependable performance for years.
