The design features a mechanical dial that allows picking the required torque depending on the type of bit you are utilising, as well as on the material you are working with.
The charging cable supplied is a bit too short.
This model will be an ideal pick for users that need a tool that can work on a daily basis and get the tasks completed without issues. The Push&Go function enables trigger operation of the screwdriver, which saves quite a bit of battery life.
Cordless (3.6 V / 1.5 Ah)
Magnetic bit holder with hexagonal shank
2.5 / 5 Nm
6 (with torque presetting ring)
Up to 360 RPM
“Push&Go” function, Softgrip, Charge level indicator, Reverse
32 x screwdriver bits, USB/AC charger, Carry case
280 g
3 years (registration required)
This screwdriver comes in a sturdy plastic carry case with a set of bits. On top of that, every element of the package has its respectable spot that is secured with plastic brackets.
The appliance isn't particularly quiet in operation.
This powerful Makita DF001DW screwdriver will be a go-to pick for people that work with wooden and metal materials one way or another. What is more, the twistable handle makes it easier to tighten and loosen the screws that are hard to reach.
Cordless (3.6 V / 1.5 Ah)
Magnetic bit holder with hexagonal shank
4 Nm
1
Up to 220 RPM
Twistable handle, Softgrip, Integrated work light, Charge level indicator, Reverse
81 x screwdriver bits, Extension bar, AC charger, Carry case
360 g
3 years (registration required)
The lithium-ion battery doesn't lose its charge even if the tool hasn't been used for long periods of time. Likewise, the Electronic Cell Protection (ECP) firmly protects the battery from overcharging.
The reverse mode trigger located somewhat inconveniently.
This mini electric screwdriver from Bosch embodies the true German quality and usability. It's perfect for small household jobs and big projects where a screwdriver is essential. Although it is more on a budget-friendly side, it easily competes with more expensive models in terms of power output.
Cordless (3.6 V / 1.5 Ah)
Magnetic bit holder with hexagonal shank
3 / 4.5 Nm
1
Up to 215 RPM
Bosch Electronic Cell Protection (ECP), Softgrip, Integrated work light, Charge level indicator, Reverse
10 x screwdriver bits, UAB/AC charger, Carry case
300 g
3 years (registration required)
The rubberized handle of the tool provides an excellent grip that negates any risk of you accidentally dropping the screwdriver. On top of that, the appliance features a powerful LED work light that eases the operation of the tool in a poorly lit environment.
The bits wear off quite fast.
The Bosch Electric Screwdriver IXO (6th Generation) has very few rivals when it comes to tightening screws accurately and fast. Even though it is designed mostly for tackling various screws it can do virtually anything that involves rotating like opening wine bottles, shredding cardboard boxes or heating up the charcoal grill.
Cordless (3.6 V / 1.5 Ah)
Magnetic bit holder with hexagonal shank
3 / 4.5 Nm
1
Up to 215 RPM
Softgrip, Integrated work light, Charge level indicator, Reverse
10 x screwdriver bits, USB/AC charger, Carry case
350 g
3 years (registration required)
The pen-like screwdriver is equipped with a set of 55 precision bits as well as with a handy carry case. This allows for dealing with Security Torx, Robertson, Wing Nut, and Imperial Hex screws, among others.
Relatively short battery life compared to similar models.
This cordless screwdriver is designed specifically for the maintenance and repair of various gadgets like TV sets, electronics, phones, and tablets. The low-torque mode makes it a perfect choice for all the electrical engineers out there, thanks to the added precision of the trigger.
Cordless (3.7 V / 0.26 Ah)
Magnetic bit holder with hexagonal shank
0.35 Nm / 3 Nm
1
150+ RPM
Complete aluminium body (with oxidation-resistance), Softgrip, Integrated work light, Charge level indicator, Reverse
55 x screwdriver bits, Extension bar, Magnetizer, Magnetic worktable, Carry case
150 g
Amazon's 30-day return policy
Light Yet Powerful
Being one of the smallest portable screwdrivers on the market, the Bosch PushDrive certainly doesn’t cease to amaze when it comes to actually use it. However, what actually makes this particular cordless screwdriver good in the first place? Let’s take a closer look at its core features and find out.
Owing to its unusual shape, this driver from Bosch is quite easy to wield even with one hand, which combined with an ergonomic grip makes utilising the screwdriver much easier than bulkier products from other brands.
As for the handy aspects of the power tool, this particular Bosch screwdriver model features a special Push&Go function that allows for utilising the appliance only when it’s actually needed. This way you can save the battery life quite a bit while maintaining the high RPM rates at all times.
With a total weight of only 280 grams, the Bosch PushDrive is, perhaps, one of the lightest screwdrivers on our list. Coupled with a great motor that can deliver a significant amount of torque, you are getting a nimble yet effective product that can be used on a daily basis with little to no recharging.
Full Set of Features
Speaking of charging, the appliance is equipped with a rechargeable 3.6V lithium-ion battery that can be charged in under 1.5-2 hours. The thing that we didn’t really like about this model though, is its cable length, which is a bit too short to charge the appliance in some cases. With that in mind, if the access to the wall outlets is limited or you don’t have a capacious power bank by your side, we strongly recommend getting a longer USB cable.
As far as power is concerned, this little driver is equipped with a capable electric motor that can generate up to 5 Nm of torque without breaking a sweat. Depending on the task you can choose between 6 different torque settings by using a handy presetting ring, which is a nice touch to the overall design.
For added convenience, the screwdriver comes packaged in a sturdy carrying case alongside with a full set of screwdriver bits and a USB charger equipped with an AC adapter. The carrying case is fairly ergonomic and won’t take a lot of space, while the 32 screwdriver bits will surely cover your needs as far as various types of screws go.
All in all, the Bosch PushDrive is one of the best cordless screwdrivers available on the market today. Light, easy to use, and equipped with a full array of useful bits needed for various types of screws it will come in handy for both amateur and professional handymen.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | £71.90 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B07FTVR5H2 |
Cordless Model That Holds a Punch
This Makita DF001DW screwdriver definitely has a different look compared to other products featured in our review but that’s not the only thing that makes it distinct among the similar models of the same category.
Firstly, it’s the integrated work light that allows for achieving unmatched precision while tackling various screwdriving challenges. What is more, the LED light has a switch independent from the main action, which allows for overall better visibility only when it is needed, which helps save battery life quite a bit.
Secondly, it’s its built-in electric motor that can deliver up to 4 Nm of torque in a matter of seconds. The only catch to this is that the appliance only has one torque setting. That said, the total rotational speed of 220 RPM negates any downsides of this design decision, allowing you to work with both light and heavy screws without too much of an issue.
Like many other models, though, the DF001DW features a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that has plenty of power between charges for letting you use the screwdriver on a daily basis. The charging process takes only around 2.5-3 hours, which is not a whole lot by today’s standards.
Premium Quality
As for the main interesting aspect of this model, it has a rather unusual grip that is longer than the actual appliance itself. Owing to this elongated pistol grip handle the overall weight of the device is 360 grams, which definitely contributes to its overall usability by not being too heavy. As any power tool needs to be practical, this model from Makita is exceptionally easy to use even if you are holding it with one hand.
The thing that we didn’t really appreciate about the appliance is the noise it can produce, which is surprising, to say the least, considering that it is not a particularly high-powered tool. But other than that, we couldn’t find anything outstanding that may draw you off from this particular model. Although this Makita product is slightly on the more expensive side of the price spectrum, it certainly does have the power and build quality that you could expect from a renowned brand. To add more, if you register the tool on the official website, Makita provides an additional warranty for up to 3 years, which shows that the company stands behind the product quality.
In the end, if you are searching for a high-quality screwdriver that will serve you for more than just one renovation season, then this screwdriver from Makita will be right up your alley. Reliable and easy to use, it will be your go-to tool for any screwdriver task that you may encounter around the house or garden.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | £53.99 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B01NC1VO3Q |
Bosch Innovations For Home Maintenance
Bosch has taken pride in inventing the world's first cordless screwdriver with lithium-ion technology and has continuously improved and enhanced their tools over generations. This has resulted in manufacturing an improved battery-operated screwdriver named Bosch IXO. Unlike its predecessor, this screwdriver was fitted with a 3.6V 1.5Ah Li-Ion battery that provides 15 % longer runtime and yields 3 Nm of torque for handling softwood and 4.5 Nm for harder woods without too much of an effort. Even though it's not the fastest screwdriver available today, you'll find it suitable for most of the tasks around your house or a garden. With a maximum speed of 215 RPM, it will let you perform all kinds of jobs and give you total control over the process.
What we liked about this screwdriver most of all is that it's very small in size. In fact, it's so compact and lightweight, you'll find it tempting to carry it along with you anywhere you go (who knows what may break down and where). With the IXO cordless electric driver, you aren't going to be bound to a socket outlet and will be able to use it for up to 3 hours from a single charge. Whenever the battery dies, you'll be able to recharge it easily too, using a Micro-USB charger that comes supplied with the tool. The battery indicator will inform you visually when the charge is complete so you should never wait longer than you need. The actual charging process takes no longer than 2.5-3 hours, which allows utilising the tool on a daily basis.
Make Your Life Better With Bosch
As for the additional features, this IXO model from Bosch comes with a set of screwdriver bits and an aluminium case for carrying and storing it. If you'd like to pack more power and features into the IXO making it suitable for more jobs than just screw driving, there's an option to purchase additional attachments and adapters on Bosch official website.
Like many cordless screwdrivers, the IXO comes with the LED light which allows you to illuminate your workspace in two ways: Cast a spread light to illuminate the entire work area; Use a spotlight to centre the light on a precise area, workpiece, among others, that you may be working with.
All in all, by opting for this IXO model from Bosch you are getting a solid handyman tool in the form of a classic screwdriver that is simple, sturdy, and gets the job done. And considering all the benefits that go with it, there is really not much more you could ask from a cordless power tool.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | £31.50 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B00XI610R0 |
Handier Than Ever
This Bosch model is arguably smaller than other cordless screwdrivers; however, its slim appearance is not the only thing that makes it a great power tool.
First things first, the 6th generation iteration of the famous Bosch IXO screwdriver model certainly does provide enough power for the tool to be used on a daily basis or occasionally, depending on what tasks lie ahead.
The electric motor of the appliance is hidden behind a fairly compact footprint. Aside from its modest size, though, the actual housing doesn’t have too many features. From top to bottom the tool features only the hexagonal shank that holds the bits, the power button and the charging port, and that’s it. But don’t let the seeming simplicity of the design trick you. At heart, the Bosch IXO is an exceptionally useful tool that can handle a variety of screwdriving tasks without even breaking a sweat.
Design aspects aside, let’s talk power. The top speed this small unit can produce is nothing short of amazing. When you press the power trigger the tool can deliver up to 215 RPM in mere seconds. Likewise, depending on how hard you squeeze the trigger the actual speed changes too, which allows for more precise or faster tightening of the screws.
Convenience at Hand
When it comes to convenience features, the Bosch IXO has an integrated work light that can be turned on when needed. Likewise, the appliance also has a 3-light battery indicator that will show you when it is time to recharge the built-in battery. To top this all up, the packaging also includes a handy carry case and a small set of screwdriver bits that should cover the most common screw types out there.
Contrary to the crowd of other tools in the same category, this Bosch screwdriver utilises the USB charging technology instead of the regular AC plugs. Fortunately, the kit is equipped with its own USB charging cable and an AC adapter, which both allow recharging the built-in battery either from other USB-powered devices or directly from the power outlets. As for the battery life, it is quite decent, considering that you can use the tool for up to 3-4 hours without the need for recharging.
Finally, if you need a powerful power tool that doesn’t feature any needless bells and whistles then this product from Bosch will fit the bill perfectly. Light, compact, and very nice to the touch when you hold it, the IXO is by far one of the most ergonomic cordless screwdrivers that you can get today.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | £59.87 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B07X4J9JHC |
Designed for Smaller Screws
Designed for smaller jobs that require precision, this POWERGIANT electric screwdriver is one of the top picks for the role of the battery-powered precision screwdrivers available on the market today.
Like many other screwdriver sets, this one comes equipped with a set of screwdriver bits, however, considering the purpose of the tool, all the bits are meant for smaller types of screws. With that in mind, the tool is best used for fixing electronics like DSLR cameras, TV sets, game consoles, laptops, PCs, as well as for phones and tablets. Likewise, the screwdriver can be utilised for fixing various toys, prescription glasses alongside the regular electronics that normally feature quite a lot of tiny screws that you wouldn’t be able to loosen or tighten up without a precision screwdriver.
So, what does this POWERGIANT tool actually bring to the table? Obviously, by using a battery-powered screwdriver, you would be able to streamline the repair and maintenance processes, which in the end, will allow completing them much quicker than you normally would.
Precision Above Anything
As far as the battery life is concerned, there is nothing to write home about this particular model from POWERGIANT. It charges fast and holds the charge for several hours of continuous use, which should cover day to day usage of the screwdriver. Although the total battery capacity of only 260 mAh is not particularly great for a power tool like a cordless screwdriver, it gets the job done and it is more than enough for most of the jobs you will be using this tool for.
The electric motor of this pen screwdriver can deliver up to 150 RPM with a total torque of 3 Nm, which is quite surprising, considering the modest size of the tool. Combined with a decent battery that is built-in within the housing, a set of LED indicators and the overall lightweight construction you are getting an ergonomic screwdriver that can perform pretty much any electronics repair task.
When it comes to the action, the pen-like design of the screwdriver doesn’t leave too much space for the trigger, and so, unlike the majority of conventional models, it doesn’t have a trigger at all. Instead, this screwdriver has two buttons that can be used to trigger either forward or reverse rotation modes of the shank itself.
All things considered, this cordless screwdriver from POWERGIANT will be a good addition to your toolset, in case you are looking for a smaller tool that can tackle trickier jobs of fixing electronics and gadgets when precision is key.
| Last updated price | $0.00 |
| Stock | May be out of stock |
| ASIN | B07R6LPHRL |
Infographics
What Is an Electric Screwdriver?
No other tool is as handy and versatile as a screwdriver is. Not surprisingly, it can be found in a home box of almost any handyman. Screwdrivers are very compact and lightweight. They take up little space and come in various sizes and shapes. Typically, there are two types of screwdrivers to choose from, mains-powered and battery-operated, with both offering indisputable benefits. Electric screwdrivers are indispensable for home maintenance and many other DIY jobs. By utilizing a screwdriver properly, one can assemble furniture, tighten a bolt or screw, fix a light fixture, and much more. In our review, we have taken a closer look at features that make cordless screwdrivers popular among users, what really makes them great to use on a daily basis, as well as how well their electric motors handle the pressure. Even though there’s plenty of models to choose from, we are sure that you will find the one that suits your needs.
If you have tasks for which a screwdriver doesn’t fit, we recommend you to consider completing the set of your tools with a cordless drill and/or a hammer drill, depending on the project.
What Features to Compare
Efficiency and Type
Efficiency and type are the first parameters to consider when you choose a screwdriver. Today, there are 2 basic types of screwdrivers - manual and electric ones. In this screwdriver review, we're focusing on cordless electric screwdrivers. Electric screwdrivers feature a rechargeable battery, a motor, and a reduction gear. Working with an electric screwdriver is extremely efficient and requires minimal muscular effort. It should be noted that electric screwdrivers are usually more lightweight than screw guns, have higher torque and lower speed of the reduction gear. The speed and the torque greatly influence the effectiveness and performance of the instrument in general, so pay attention to these specifications as well. The higher they are, the better the performance of a screwdriver is. A 40 in-lbs torque screwdriver with the speed up to 400 RPM is just enough for home use.
Features
Features are another important parameter that should be considered when choosing a screwdriver. Depending on their features, electric screwdrivers serve for different tasks and objectives. They can feature a fixable screwdriver ratchet, a reverse mechanism for easy screwing and unscrewing, a possibility to change the speed of a screwdriver head, and a spindle block that allows you to finish screwing manually. It’s also worth considering the type of battery, as this determines the possibilities of long-term operation and service life. Modern electric screwdrivers usually have Lithium-ion batteries. A Lithium-ion battery screwdriver has a large number of charge and discharge cycles and has a long runtime. Also, note that all screwdrivers models that provide the ability to use different bits and attachments are limited to a diameter of the bits.
Ease of Use
Ease of use is the next thing to pay attention to. The convenience of a tool depends on its design. Cordless screwdrivers can have a 2 or 3-position handle with a rotary mechanism, which allows you to get close to the screws at virtually any angle. Some screwdrivers also allow for adjusting the holder head for extra convenience. A great advantage of a cordless screwdriver is a battery charge indicator on the tool itself. The indicator will give you a visual representation of the battery's state of charge. A built-in flashlight, helping you when working in low light conditions, is also a useful addition. Also important is the weight of a screwdriver, as the lighter it is, the more convenient it is to use.
Package Contents
The last but not the least, consider the contents of the package that comes with the tool. When it comes to an electric screwdriver, the essential part of the kit would be a battery. You should also get a docking station for recharging the battery. Most docking stations are equipped with light and sound indicators that signal a user about the charging status of the battery. As a rule, it doesn't take longer than 30 minutes to fully recharge the battery. Buying the kit containing two batteries would be beneficial to all those being engaged in repair jobs. Instead of having to wait for the battery to recharge, you will be able to continue working without breaks. Most electric screwdrivers come completed with a few bits of the main calibre and have a special carrying case for storing and transporting the tool.
FAQ:
Q: How does a cordless screwdriver work?
A: When you depress a trigger, a switch inside the tool transfers power from a rechargeable battery to a motor gear. So, every time you pull the trigger, you are closing the circuit allowing the electric current power to flow through the screwdriver. The motor converts the battery energy into mechanical energy and rotates pinions to turn the chuck. Depending on the build and model of a cordless screwdriver, the gearbox may offer the option to select different gears, hence different speed ranges.
Q: What is a NiCd battery about?
A: NiCd stands for the nickel cadmium. The first rechargeable batteries employed in cordless power tools were made of nickel cadmium. With the progress of battery technology, the popularity on NiCd batteries has gradually decreased, mainly because these batteries contain a toxic element cadmium that requires very careful handling when disposing of dead batteries.
Q: What is a NiMH battery?
A: NiMH is the abbreviation for nickel-metal hydride. As manufacturers claim, the nickel-metal hydride batteries come as a headway of nickel-cadmium batteries since they have a higher capacity and longer service life.
Q: What's the difference between a cordless screwdriver and a drill driver?
A: In addition to driving screws, cordless drill drivers allow for drilling holes in various materials. Cordless drill drivers are normally bigger, pricier, and heavier than cordless screwdrivers. Unlike screwdrivers, cordless drill drives are often fitted with a variable speed trigger and a built-in clutch for torque adjustment. Apparently, if you do not need to perform complex projects, buying a cordless drill driver isn't necessarily.
Q: How to store a cordless screwdriver properly?
A: The iron rule of storing an electrical screwdriver is to never leave it outside. Always store your tool indoors in a clean and dry place. Do not ditch instructions or user manual that comes with the tool. You never know when you may need to look up in it. If you ever encounter a problem using a screwdriver, the first place to look for the information would be in a manual.
Q: How to care for a battery-powered screwdriver to extend its life?
A: When you don't use a screwdriver, never leave it exposed to the direct sunlight or close to a radiator for there's a chance the battery might overheat and explode. Make sure not to place the screwdriver in close proximity to the things made of metal. Avoid using up the battery charge completely; a deep drainage can damage the battery and shorten its service life. Leave to recharge the moment you notice it starts to slow down.
Sources:
1. Screwdriver, Wikipedia. September 12, 2017.
2. Dan Harmon How to Choose an Electric Screwdriver, Dengarden. November 15, 2016.
3. 5 Advantages of Using an Electric Screwdriver, DoItYourself.
4. Simon Dean How to Use a Cordless Screwdriver, eHow.
5. Inside an Electric Screwdriver, HowStuffWorks.
6. Hand and Power Tools, OSHA.