If you’re hunting for the best drill and impact driver set, you’re in the right place. These versatile kits combine the precision of a drill with the brute force of an impact driver—ideal for everything from light assembly to heavy-duty construction. But wait—why settle for average tools when you can get professional results at home?
Here’s the deal: whether you’re comparing the best impact driver options, exploring top-rated best impact driver bits, or upgrading with the best impact nut driver set, choosing a reliable combo kit makes all the difference. In this review, we’ll reveal the best-performing sets that balance power, battery life, and comfort—so you can drill and drive like a pro. Let’s get started!
Our Top Picks
Best Compact Combo: DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill
The DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit (DCK277D2) offers a well-balanced mix of power, precision, and portability. Both tools use brushless motors that deliver efficient performance with less heat and longer runtime. The impact driver’s 1,500 in-lbs of torque handles demanding fastening jobs, while the compact drill easily fits into tight corners. The lightweight 7.6-inch design makes prolonged use comfortable, and the ergonomic grip provides solid control. Bright LED lighting with a 20-second trigger delay helps users work efficiently in dim or enclosed spaces. Quick bit changes through the hex chuck improve workflow speed.
From a customer’s standpoint, the combo’s reliability and battery endurance stand out for both DIY and professional applications. Users appreciate the ergonomic design and responsive trigger, though some wish it included more accessories for added versatility.
Overall, this DEWALT set delivers excellent value for its performance class—offering durable construction, consistent power, and thoughtful design in a compact, jobsite-ready package.
Best Starter Combo: DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver
The DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit (DCK240C2) delivers solid, everyday performance in a compact form ideal for homeowners and light professionals. The DCD771 drill offers two-speed settings (0–450 and 0–1500 RPM), giving users control for drilling into wood, metal, and plastic. Its 300 UWO motor provides enough power for most household projects, while the 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck ensures bits stay firmly locked in place. The DCF885 impact driver is lightweight at just 2.8 lbs, with a 5.55-inch length that makes it easy to use in confined spaces. The 3-LED light ring provides clear visibility without casting harsh shadows, a practical detail appreciated during interior or low-light work.
From a customer perspective, this DEWALT kit earns praise for its ergonomic comfort, balance, and portability. It’s particularly valued by users new to cordless tools or those needing a reliable backup set. The only recurring feedback concerns battery runtime during heavy-duty use, and some wish for brushless motors for longer tool life.
Overall, the DCK240C2 offers dependable power, great handling, and versatile functionality—an excellent entry-level combo kit that balances quality, ease of use, and affordability.
Best Ergonomic Design: CRAFTSMAN V20 MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver
The CRAFTSMAN V20 MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit (CMCK200C2AM) combines reliable performance with user-focused design. The CMCD700 drill delivers 280 UWO of power through a two-speed gearbox (0–350 and 0–1,500 RPM), allowing smooth transitions between delicate and high-demand applications. The CMCF800 impact driver adds muscle with up to 1,460 in-lbs of torque and speeds reaching 2,800 RPM and 3,100 BPM, making it capable of handling stubborn fasteners and dense materials. Both tools feature bright LED lights for improved visibility in low-light areas, while the compact, contoured handles enhance comfort and reduce fatigue during extended use.
From a customer standpoint, this combo kit is praised for its excellent ergonomics and balance, especially during long projects. Users also appreciate the one-handed bit change system and the dependable torque for household and workshop tasks. However, some note that the tools feel slightly heavier than other 20V models, and the batteries may deplete quicker under heavy load.
Overall, the CRAFTSMAN V20 MAX kit offers a solid mix of comfort, control, and power. It’s a dependable, mid-range option for users seeking both strength and precision in everyday drilling and fastening tasks.
FAQs
What is the best impact driver drill?
The best impact driver drill depends on your specific needs, but top contenders consistently include models from DEWALT, Makita, and Milwaukee. The DEWALT 20V MAX Combo Kit, for example, delivers excellent torque, long battery life, and ergonomic balance, making it suitable for both professionals and serious DIYers.
Makita’s XDT14Z combo stands out for its compact design and electronic controls, while Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel line is known for unmatched durability and advanced brushless motors. If you want all-around performance and reliability, the DEWALT DCK240C2 remains one of the most recommended drill and impact driver sets on the market.
Is it better to drill with an impact driver or drill?
It depends on the task. A drill is ideal for making clean, precise holes in wood, plastic, or metal, while an impact driver excels at driving long screws or bolts into tough materials without stripping the heads.
If you often switch between drilling and fastening, using a combo kit gives you the best of both worlds. You’ll use the drill for hole-making and the impact driver for torque-heavy jobs like lag bolts or deck screws. In short, use each tool for what it’s designed for—efficiency and performance will both improve.
What’s better, Makita or DeWalt?
Both brands are industry leaders, but their strengths differ slightly:
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Makita is known for innovation, compact designs, and long battery life. Its tools are lightweight and comfortable for extended use.
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DEWALT offers rugged durability, excellent torque, and wide tool compatibility under the same battery platform.
If you prioritize power and toughness, go with DEWALT. If comfort, finesse, and battery runtime matter most, Makita might be your best bet. Ultimately, both deliver pro-level quality—it’s a matter of preference and task type.
Which is the No. 1 drill machine brand?
Globally, DEWALT and Makita often compete for the No. 1 spot, but many professional contractors rank DEWALT slightly higher due to its combination of power, reliability, and wide availability in North America. Milwaukee also ranks among the top three for innovation and heavy-duty performance.
The right choice depends on your specific needs: DEWALT for consistent torque and toughness, Makita for lightweight precision, and Milwaukee for advanced tech and durability.
Conclusion
Choosing the best drill and impact driver set means investing in tools that handle any job efficiently. Whether you lean toward DEWALT’s rugged durability, Makita’s refined precision, or Milwaukee’s brute power, the right combo kit simplifies your work and boosts productivity. Remember—selecting a well-balanced set ensures you’re always prepared, whether you’re drilling pilot holes, driving lag screws, or tackling weekend projects.
