5 Best Cordless Screwdrivers and How to Buy One
Are you tired of your simple screwdriver that just won’t do the job properly? Well, worry not. Cordless screwdriver can do that for you. What is a cordless screwdriver you ask?
A cordless screwdriver is a specialty device, that works wonderfully for driving the screws in or out. In short, it is the better version of your normal screwdriver.
You must be wondering, isn’t it best to go for an Impact driver or a normal drill. It’s better to use all those power tools that can do a lot of other things as well. Sure, you can do that with those power tools, but buying a impact driver or a drill, just for the sake of screw driving? Sounds like overkill to us.
Look, if you’re just looking to buy a better screwdriver that won’t leave your scratching your head; an electrical or a cordless screwdriver is your best option. However, if you have a lot of other heavy duty projects, such as heavy duty drilling and such, it is better to look for heavy duty power tools. Now, coming back to the point –
A normal screwdriver runs on batteries and can be used to insert or remove screws. Some of the cordless screwdrivers can be used for drilling as well.
Different models vary in some aspects, but other than that, cordless screwdrivers have at least these parts in common
Chuck
Whatever that’s going to be put on your cordless screwdrivers i.e. the screwdriver, drills, or drill bits; is held by the chuck. Most of the screwdrivers are equipped with either a chuck with integrated bit holder that is part of the tool, or, a quick release chuck in which a bit holder can be attached.
Bit holder
Bit holder is the part of the tool that holds the screwdrivers or drill bits. Mostly, bit holders are integrated into the screwdriver, but in some cordless screwdrivers, there is an option of detachable bit holders.
Battery Indicator and LED Lights
Some cordless screwdrivers have an indicator which tells you the level of battery remaining. It’s a useful feature to have. Many of the cordless screwdrivers also have LED lights to work in the areas with low light.
Torque control ring
Torque as you well know is the turning force behind the working of a cordless screwdriver. Most of the screwdrivers have a torque ring that lets you control the level of torque being delivered, depending on how much of it you require.
Gear selector switch and speed control trigger
Cordless screwdriver is operated with a speed control trigger. You basically pull the trigger and then you can adjust the pressure to decide how fast the speed of the cordless screwdriver should be. The gear selector is also an option in many cordless drills that have more than one gear. With this feature you can select the gear on which you want the drill to operate.
Motor and battery
Motor is the part of cordless screwdriver’s design that helps turn the electrical energy into mechanical energy, needed to turn the chuck.
The motor is powered by the battery, which is either in-built, or comes separately from the tool. There are various battery types, and lithium ion is usually preferred for its long life and quick charge. In most cases, the charger comes with the tool.
Forward and reverse switch, and grip
Forward and reverse switch, as the name suggests, helps in shifting the direction of the rotation to either drive the screws in, or out. The grip helps the user in operating comfortably.
This is what a cordless screwdriver consists of. Every time the trigger is pulled, the electrical energy passes on to the motor, which than converts it into mechanical energy and that is how the tool operates. Different types and models may have less or more features than these.
If you’re looking to upgrade from your normal screwdriver to a quick action cordless screwdriver, here are a few things to keep in mind
Buying Guide – Things to look for while buying
Shape and Size
You have a lot of choices, when it comes to shape and size. Buy a screwdriver that is comfortable for you. For smaller project, small sized screwdrivers are okay, and in some cases, you might need a bigger one. Access your needs and then make the decision.
Also, find one with a comfortable grip so you can do the work with ease.
Battery and voltage
When it comes to voltage, it again depends on the project at hand. The voltage of different models vary, and for smaller tasks like driving screw in softer woods, you can go for a smaller tool. But, for bigger, heavy duty materials, you will be needing more voltage. With a higher voltage, you’ll get more speed as well.
Battery is the powerhouse of the screwdriver and you want one that is dependable, durable, and can last a good while. You want the one that can give you durability and good performance.
Features
Different models feature different torque and speed, and you can get one that fulfills your criteria. A few features that you can examine are- Battery (how fast it charges, and how long it can last), Spindle Lock(It locks the screwdriver into manual mode), Reverse action(most models have this), Integrated lights (For when you’re working in areas with low light) etc.
So, after all the analysis, let’s jump into reviewing some of the most popular options available for you in the market –
Here Are The 5 Best Cordless Screwdrivers
1. ) BLACK+DECKER LI4000
When it comes to cordless screwdrivers, Black Decker has some really good models and this is one of them. This 3.6V model is powered by a lithium ion battery, and is perfect for basics home repairs and assemblies. It has a magnetic screw holder with a six position clutch that has visual indicators for easy use, and prevention of stripping.
There’s LED lights that make it easier to work in areas that don’t have good lighting. Charger casing holds all the bits and you don’t have to worry about losing them. The tool has a compact design and is easier to handle.
2.) DEWALT DW920K-2
This well designed 7.2V screwdriver from DEWALT is a great option as well. The tool provides a maximum of 18 inch pound torque and is good for a variety of applications. It can be used as both in-line, and pistol grip thanks to the adjustable two-position handle. It has variable speed and reversing trigger switch which provides you option to adjust between 0-500 RPM, for fastening and pre- drilling.
Its quick release hex shank chuck makes it easier to switch screwdriver bits, preventing bit run out. This is a fast, efficient , and versatile model, excellent for home applications.
3.) BLACK+DECKER Li2000
This is another great product form Black Decker. This 3.6 V tool also has a spindle lock option that you can use to use it manually. Three position handle makes it easier to work in tight spaces. The tool uses lithium ion batteries that can hold a charge up to eighteen months.
Forward and reverse switch makes it easier to choose the rotational direction for driving screws in or out. The tool weights 1.35 pounds and is very light to carry around. The maximum speed that this model can reach is 180 RPM.
There is a newer version available for this model and you can check that out as well. Here’s new version: BLACK-DECKER-BDCSFL20C-Lightdriver-Screwdriver
4.) WORX WX255L SD
This is a 4V model, with single handed operation that allows for extended reach. The tool is shaped like a gun for better gripping, and the cartridge holds six bits so that you always have the right bit to use. The screw holder attachment holds the screws to allow you to work with one hand. It also catches the screws as they are removed.
The 4V lithium ion battery is perfect for extended work as it can hold charge up to eighteen months. The tool accepts any 1/4 hex shank insert bit and its rapid slide action quickly forwards the right bit. LED lights are there to light up the dark areas for better work. It is light weight, weighing 1.5 pounds and is quite easy to carry around.
5.) Hitachi DB3DL2
This model from Hitachi has dual position handle that converts from straight to pistol grip, providing you maximum flexibility. It has a 1.5Ah lithium battery, that lasts longer, is light and durable. The tool has 21 clutch setting, and one drill setting, so that you can be more precise according to the task at hand.
The tool weighs 14.4 ounces and is really light. The forward and back ward switch lets you control the rotational direction, while the spindle lock offers you the manual application. The LED lights are there to make working easier. Overall, it is another great tool to complete the everyday home project effortlessly.
These are a few cordless screwdrivers options that you can check out.
