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Last updated: 25 Feb 2021

The Best Cordless Impact Wrenches (Review & Buying Guide) in 2021

DeWALT DCF899HB 20V Impact Wrench

DeWALT DCF899HB 20V Impact Wrench

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Milwaukee 2762-20 High Torque Impact Wrench

Milwaukee 2762-20 High Torque Impact Wrench

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Black & Decker BDCI20C Impact Driver

Black & Decker BDCI20C Impact Driver

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Show contents
Contents
  • The Best Cordless Impact Wrenches
  • 1 DeWALT DCF899HB 20V Impact Wrench
  • 2 Milwaukee 2767-20 High Torque Impact Wrench
  • 3 Black & Decker BDCI20C Impact Driver
  • 4 Makita XWT11Z Brushless Impact Wrench
  • 5 Porter-Cable PCC740B Cordless Impact Wrench
  • 6 Neiko Lithium-Ion Cordless High-Torque Impact Wrench
  • 7 Dobetter Power Wrench Tool Se
  • 8 Bosch IDH182-02 Brushless Impact Charger Kit
  • 9 Aircat Impact Wrench
  • 10 Eneacro Cordless Impact Wrench
By Car Bibles Staff
Published Feb. 22, 2021

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An impact wrench can be an extremely useful tool in the armory of any at-home mechanic. After all, we’ve all encountered that rusty bolt that simply refuses to shift is heavier set, or just makes tightening tedious. We’ve all had that upgrade work that needs us to remove and replace about 15,000 bolts. There is, however, a better way to tackle these jobs that don’t result in skinned, bleeding knuckles, tears, tantrums, and wrenches thrown through work sites.

The answer to your prayers is a top-rated impact wrench. This wonderful tool has never met a bolt it couldn’t loosen, and frankly, if you are smart enough to invest in the best cordless impact wrench you’ll wonder how you ever survived without it.

With everything you need to keep your hands comfortable, maneuver lugs, nuts, and bolts, impact wrenches are a handy piece of equipment. There are tons of options, with selections ranging from 18 volts (18v) to 12 volts (12v). You can get non-pneumonic impact wrenches with super high foot pounds of torque (the larger the feet value, the more strength you get). 

The size and compact structure add much performance value, helping you manage everything from lug nuts to bolts by offering good balance and a solid tightening experience. A high torque impact wrench is huge when fastening bolts. So, free up some of your time and select something that is good at providing you the best of both worlds. A powerful impact wrench is great at working on car parts and maintenance work alike.

But which cordless impact wrenches are the best? Which option will work for a long time with long and short lugs and give you the ability to keep your hands comfortable? We have curated a list of high torque impact wrenches that make life easier. So, get ready for a breakdown of the best cordless impact wrenches around and rejoice, for your hands are about to say thank you.

The Best Cordless Impact Wrenches

1
DeWALT DCF899HB 20V Impact Wrench

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dewalt dcf899hb 20v impact wrench
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For our first product on the list, we’re coming in hot with our no-brainer pick for the best cordless impact wrench. That statement may seem a little over the top until you take a dive into the features and design points that have been packed into this tool.

First off we have a 20 Volt brushless motor. We go into why brushless motors are great further down in the buying guide section – for now just take it that it’s a great sign to see one installed here. In addition, this tool is packing a high quality 1/2-inch anvil that allows the wrench to generate up to 700 lb/ft of torque.

1900 RPM is also impressive, whilst the three-speed selection allows for more delicate control than you would generally expect on these types of tools and a LED work light is a useful little extra. This light makes it easier to balance your environment and tightening efficiency. Brightness also helps prevent injuries through improved visibility. With the high ah (amperage level) batteries it uses it won’t drain quickly (even under the heavier strain).

All that and it’s tough as hell, built to the high standards you expect of DeWALT. It’s so tough in fact that DeWALT claims it can happily survive a 6-ft drop – a new design feature we would recommend you don’t test out too regularly, no matter how tough this little puppy is.

This cordless impact wrench can give you the ability to keep all your tools together with its carrying case that’s included in the package. It is popular for the comfort it offers hands and its ability to move around work sites. Coming with instructions to provide all the top information you need to know, this powerful non-pneumonic impact wrench works on large and short lugs, nuts, and bolts with ease. Its performance value definitely shows.

Related Post: Best Dewalt Power Tools

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Key Features:

Brushless Motor

700 ft lbs of Torque

1 2 Inch Anvil

Strong batteries help with achieving max drive force

Large size helps it  run for a long time with three modes

Three settings for cordless impact wrenches intensity

Specification:
  • BrandDeWALT
  • ModelDCF899HB
  • Weight6.4 lbs

2
Milwaukee 2767-20 High Torque Impact Wrench

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milwaukee 2767-20 high torque impact wrench
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With its red color scheme, white lighting bolt, and small size, this cordless impact wrench from Milwaukee kind of looks like a ray gun from a recently-adapted 50’s sci-fi flick. Beneath its cute exterior, however, beats the heart of a high-quality tool from a manufacturer with a well-deserved reputation for quality, a known name, and a final product that shows they tried to prevent any downsides.

The brushless motor inside can deliver up 1000 ft-lbs of torque at its highest setting, a remarkable level of power that will allow you to tackle the loosening/tightening of just about any bolt you come across. At the same time, a four-mode drive control gives you ample control to tailor the power delivery to the level you need.

A rubberized overmold has been used to case the tool as well. This provides a protective layer against corrosion and impacts whilst making it comfortable to hold. Finally, built in anti burnout tech protects the motor and anti overload software protects the battery from damage.

Around 200 bucks for the tool alone makes it easily one of the more expensive on out list — but you are getting a heck of a lot of high quality wrench for your money. One quick order can end the search for the ideal tool. It can pave the way to easier work on mechanics parts from getting a tight seal on nuts and bolts. Plus, it’s from the makers of Milwaukee m18 fuel (a necessary ingredient for a lot of supplies).  

Especially with a reputable option like the Milwaukee wrench, you get the benefit of customer recommendations, showcasing how the wrench offers a high amount of performance value. Looking at the information in the specs, the merit is proven all the more, making your search that much easier. 

Related Post: Best Milwaukee Hand Tools

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Key Features:

Less than 9 Inches in long

4x Mode Drive Control

Contains Tech to Prevent Burnout & Overload

High ah batteries help with achieving max drive force

Large design can run for a long time with three modes

Three settings for cordless impact wrenches intensity

From maker of Milwaukee m18 fuel

Brushless Motor

1 2 and 1 4 Inch Socket Compatibility

High  ft lbs torque value

Long run time 

Specification:
  • BrandMilwaukee
  • Model2767-20
  • Weight6.64 lbs

3
Black & Decker BDCI20C Impact Driver

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black & decker bdci20c impact driver
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Black & Decker BDCI20C Impact Driver
black & decker bdci20c impact driver
Black & Decker BDCI20C Impact Driver
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Our next product comes from Black & Decker has the distinction of having two standout features — it is both versatile and inexpensive. To tackle the latter, it has an ultra-low price tag — without the battery — easily making it amongst the cheapest on the list.

The versatility element comes from the fact that this is an impact driver rather than a dedicated impact wrench. Of course, that means the chuck (of 1/4-inch size) can accommodate both wrench-style sockets and also screwdriver bits. This also allows it to tackle stubborn bolts and screws, making it a very useful design.

It is a budget model so you are not going to get the bells and whistles that you would find on premium tools — no brushless motor, very basic speed control, no overload protection, and a pretty weak 114 ft-lbs of torque.

It is though a very versatile tool with a price tag that won’t break the bank. Plus, it has such a straightforward new design that (even if you don’t know all the information there is on wrenches), it’s pretty easy to service. This has been a terrific option in 2020 and is designed to keep working for a long time after that.  So, as far as placing an order focusing on something you will like, that will still ensure you get a good bang for your buck. 

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Key Features:

20V Output

Multi-Function Design

Low Price

114 ft lbs of Torque

Batteries reach max drive force reliably

Large but keeps running for long time 

More than two modes for using cordless impact wrenches full torque

Specification:
  • BrandBlack & Decker
  • ModelBDCI20C
  • Weight3.25 lbs

4
Makita XWT11Z Brushless Impact Wrench

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makita xwt11z brushless impact wrench
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Makita XWT11Z Brushless Impact Wrench
makita xwt11z brushless impact wrench
Makita XWT11Z Brushless Impact Wrench
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Makita is another company with a well-earned rep for bringing new, high quality power tools to the market that are often dripping with high-end features. The stand-out design feature of this cordless impact driver model however is the fact that it is absolutely tiny. A total length of barely five inches and a weight of fewer than three pounds means this tool is one of the few things around that is actually smaller than your Dad’s ego! Jokes aside, if you need a tool to fit into tight spaces, this could be the one for you. It also boasts a comfortable ergonomic grip, a 3x speed power selector for effective control, and the brushless engine we like to see in these things.

The only downside is that to achieve that small size and weight, the motor is also small and a bit underpowered (a common theme when on a search for power and compactness). It can generate up to 210 ft-lbs of torque that will be enough for many jobs, but it is packing less of a punch than the majority of the tools on this list.

Though the Makita might be a lighter-duty new wrench to select, it still has a lot of value when working on parts you come across a lot when doing a repair in tight commercial spaces. The lighter weight structure does a service to muscle fatigue. Per the information provided about the products in the recommendations, this wrench is ideal for household tools. This way, instead of cranking at a tricky bolt, you can free up energy to do other work. 

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Key Features:

Brushless Motor

210 ft lbs of Torque

Very Small – Barely 5 Inches in Length

Tough batteries assist reaching max drive force

Large yet compact size can run for a long time with three modes

Three settings for battery powered impact wrenches intensity

Specification:
  • BrandMakita
  • ModelXWT11Z
  • Weight2.85 lbs

5
Porter-Cable PCC740B Cordless Impact Wrench

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porter-cable pcc740b cordless impact wrench
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The latest model on the list comes from Porter-Cable, and this impact wrench is specially designed for use with cars. This is due to the rugged housing of the tool that is resistant to chemical erosion, making it perfect for working in, around, and on cars and all the various chemicals they contain. As one of the more basic models you’ll encounter on this search, we do not have a brushless motor onboard, however, the motor inside is still pretty powerful, generating up to 310 ft-lbs of torque. Couple that with an RPM of 1650 maximum and you have a tool that packs a pretty useful punch.

Even though the motor might not be one of the larger models, it can still tackle jobs like handling nuts and bolts. It has a higher torque than many and works in reverse to give you a wide range of applications.  Especially when considered against the force required to do the work manually, getting an impact wrench is one of the best steps you can take. This wrench stands out in a lot of ways, namely the service it offers and the compact yet relatively heavy structure. 

At almost 10 inches in length and 5 pounds in weight, this is one of the bigger tools on the list. With a price tag of around 10 bucks though, whilst it may not be the most advanced model around it’s certainly very good value for money. With a wide range of applications included in its design, this option is one you can surely get used to. 

As broken down in the specification information, this is a great wrench for handling parts like less demanding bolts and work like changing nuts and lugs. Sure, in the categories of strongest to weakest wrenches, this one won’t take the cake. That said, the menu of uses and enthusiastic customer recommendations really set it apart as one of the best options from 2020 (and moving into the future). 

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Key Features:

Produces 330 ft lbs of Torque

Max. 1650 RPM

Hog Ring for Quick Socket Changes

Variable Speed Trigger

Batteries efficiently reach max drive force

Large yet compact design can run for a long time with three settings

Three settings for using battery powered impact wrenches full power

Specification:
  • BrandPorter-Cable
  • ModelPCC740B
  • Weight5 lbs

6
Neiko Lithium-Ion Cordless High-Torque Impact Wrench

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Neiko Lithium-Ion Cordless High-Torque Impact Wrench
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If you’re on a search for the best; something with name recognition, the new Neiko Lithium-Ion Cordless Impact Wrench is a great find. It works better than many others thanks to the 300  ft lbs torque. It has a high impact frequency capability, a feature that’s common to search for. The wrench keeps you in full control, so you can focus on the mechanics problem you’re dealing with instead of issues with your tools. 

It features an ergonomic grip that would keep you comfortable for hours while working. You can control the speed easily with the accessible trigger. Lightweight enough to maneuver easily, the design works to make it better to handle than heavier new models. All the parts are easy enough to change out; and, if you run into any hiccups, it comes with all the information you need to troubleshoot.

The cordless design features a battery indicator that informs you of the status. It has user-friendly applications since it has higher torque and accuracy than an m18 fuel gauge. With a better understanding of the power status, the tool helps you manage time. Plus, with a handy carrying case to protect the wrench, it’s compact and easy to store around the tools of your work partners. User-friendly and powerful, this wrench is designed for those who want to work better and more efficiently than the industry standard. 

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Key Features:

Battery charge indicator

20 volt, 4 amp battery

Comes with four socket adapters

Batteries efficiently reach max drive force

Large design can run for a long time thanks to three settings

Three settings for using battery powered impact wrenches full power

300  ft lbs of torque

Up to 3,000 BPM

Specification:
  • BrandNeiko
  • Model10878A
  • Weight10.52 pounds

7
Dobetter Power Wrench Tool Se

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Dobetter Power Wrench Tool Se
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If you want to find something that can help you save time and has an established name, the new Dobetter Power Wrench Tool Set is a great option. Inside the carrying case, you can find tools like the seven included sockets ranging between 17 mm and 10 mm. Paired with the screwdrivers, extender, and quarter-inch adapter, you get all the tools you need to help you tackle any problem (talk about worth the search).  

Whether your vehicle wore down in 2020 and you need to work on your car or need something for work, this wrench is a great way to go. A truly quality find in this search, the Dobetter can achieve up to 280 RPM with a torque of 40 feet per pound. While these aren’t the most powerful options, if your search is focused on durability instead of raw power, this is a great grab.

With it, you get a compact and lightweight wrench with a battery indicator to keep you in the know. Relying on this power source in lieu of m18 fuel, it’s a really long-lasting option with versatile applications.  Holding up well during shipping, this is one of the best wrench sets for those that want to get the benefits of versatility. So, if you like to use your wrenches for multiple professional tasks, this is a good option. 

It has a whole menu of offerings and includes all the instructions you need to work. This way, the information you require is right at your fingertips. The select add-ons that come with the order (including the extender) enhance the versatility of this new wrench. With new uses for the best cordless impact wrenches arising every day, the diverse applications of this wrench make it a solid way to go.

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Key Features:

Comes with two screwdrivers

Parts include extender and adapter

Quick-charging battery

Torque of 40  ft lbs

Includes LED light indicator 

Batteries reach max drive force reliably

Large yet can run for a long time with three settings

Three settings for using cordless impact wrenches full torque

Specification:
  • BrandDobetter
  • Weight5.34 pounds

8
Bosch IDH182-02 Brushless Impact Charger Kit

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bosch idh182-02 brushless impact charger kit
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Bosch IDH182-02 Brushless Impact Charger Kit
bosch idh182-02 brushless impact charger kit
Bosch IDH182-02 Brushless Impact Charger Kit
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This entry from the renowned power tool manufacturer ticks a lot of boxes for us — but it also has one significant drawback. The main impressive feature is the price — around 200 bucks for an impact driver (of Bosch build new construction don’t forget) complete with no less than two battery packs. The batteries themselves are 2.0ah, meaning they can deliver power for prolonged periods — and the fact you get a pair means one can charge as the other is used.

As far as other features, what can we say — it’s a Bosch! It comes with a brushless engine (great to see), easy and intuitive power control for accurate operation, and built-in protection from overload — all the well-thought-out design points and features you expect.

Time to get to that drawback we mentioned though and it is this — this impact wrench is a little underpowered. It only generates 137.5 ft-lbs of torque, a bit less than we would have liked to see. Still, despite that it remains an excellent, well-built tool with a remarkably low price, making it a really desirable selection discovered in this search.

Sure, it might pack a bit less of a wallop, but that doesn’t mean that the customer satisfaction is any lower. In fact, this wrench has solid customer recommendations in most categories. Particularly for those who might be new to the world of power tools, it’s helpful to know that this option is a great place to start.

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Key Features:

Complete kit (With Batteries & Charger)

1 2, 3 8, and 1 4 Inch Socket Compatibility

137.5 ft lbs of Torque

Bosch Quality Construction

Batteries reach max drive force without electrical issues

Large size but still can run for a long time over two settings

Three settings for using cordless impact wrenches full intensity

Specification:
  • BrandBosch
  • ModelIDH182-02
  • Weight6.6 lbs

9
Aircat Impact Wrench

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Aircat Impact Wrench
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Those on the hunt for a larger model that can help with everything from nuts and bolts and has a recognized name, can get a lot of benefit from the new Aircat Impact Wrench. For starters, it is one of the really powerful options. The heavy-duty design is tough enough to hold up during shipping since it is one of the most durable options out there, so you can count on the long life span. Plus, if you have mechanics work to do, you’ll like the loosening torque of 1295  ft-lbs. 

This quality find incorporates a large size rotor to offer substantial power. Despite this performance intensity, it is actually really quiet. It can get the work done (whether it’s lug nuts and bolts or plumbing) without making a racket. At only 86 decibels, even low-key ear protection would be sufficient. 

Particularly since we now know how important ear safety is (with information and recommendations updating regularly), the quiet function offers real service.  Among the vast menu of offerings of this heavy-duty wrench is the ability to select the power intensity. This way, if you like it to rotate more or less quickly, you can get the professional-level task done effortlessly when you select the right setting. The product intensity makes it well worth the search.

With a twin hammer that rotates 1400 times every minute, you get the benefit of intense power. Even though it is strong, you may be surprised to find that it is actually easy to hold. The ergonomic grip keeps your hand comfortable while the cordless design keeps you free to move around while you work. So, if you ever need to service more than one car at once, this can make the work a whole lot easier.

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Key Features:

1295  ft lbs torque

Up to 1400 RPM

Compatible with popular attachment (3 8, 1 2, and 1 4)

Batteries get to max drive force reliably

Runs for long time if you keep it at lowest setting

Three modes for using cordless impact wrenches full torque

Specification:
  • BrandAircat Inc.
  • Model1150
  • Weight4.62 lbs

10
Eneacro Cordless Impact Wrench

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Eneacro Cordless Impact Wrench]
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On a search for something that’s tough and efficient? No matter what your mechanical problem, the new Eneacro Cordless Impact Wrench has all the supplies you need to account for.  A popular product in 2020 (for great reason), this wrench has a vast menu of sockets, as well as a belt clip and carrying container. The powerful battery includes an indicator light, so you can continuously account for how much power you have remaining. 

The sturdy battery is powerful and clips onto the base tightly. With an ergonomic handle and a user-friendly trigger, you won’t have any problem controlling this wrench. Three different speed settings let you keep your sockets in good condition and prevent fatigue and damage on your vehicle’s parts. Whether you need to do some maintenance work or mechanics chores, you get full control of the 3500 possible BPM. This way, stripping the attachments won’t be a problem. 

Operating with a brushless motor system, this wrench operates fairly quietly, so you don’t need to account for noisy surroundings. Cordless options are way quieter than air powered models, and this one takes it even further. Instead, the easy-to-control new settings, paired with the durable design that promotes a long life span, this wrench is an awesome product overall. 

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Key Features:

300  ft lbs torque 

4.0 amp lithium ion battery

Includes four impact sockets

Batteries reach max drive force reliably

Large size but keeps running for long time 

Three modes for using cordless impact wrenches full torque

Specification:
  • BrandEneacro
  • ModelENIW2006
  • Weight5 lbs

Best Cordless Impact Wrench Buying Guide & FAQ

That is our list of 10 of the best cordless impact wrenches on the market today; the results of an intensive search to showcase all the top options. But with a price range that stretches from 50 bucks to over 200, what are the features you should look out for in premium models, just what has been trimmed from budget ones – and can you afford to lose them? When it comes down to choosing either a cordless or something with a compressor, it helps to balance higher torque with a good user experience. 

Then once you’ve made your choice, how do you get the most out of it? Your search must end somewhere, but to find the right fit, you need to have all your information together. We’ll look at that and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about these highly useful little tools. Now that the search for products has ended, the search for details begins.

cordless impact wrench

A quality cordless impact wrench is easy-to-use, egonomic, and above all else, effective.

Benefits of Using a Cordless Impact Wrench

Power

When you get an electric tool, it’s only natural to search for raw power. Yes, at the end of the day it’s all about that delicious power, baby! Let’s face it; if a regular wrench were enough for the job, you’d just use that. The fact that sometimes (often in fact) it’s a real struggle to loose some rusted on or tight bolts is the reason Impact Wrenches were invented. They put an incredible amount of power right into the palm of your hand. Some use batteries and others rely on m18 fuel, these often work faster with a higher breakaway speed, but ultimately wear down more quickly. 

When looking at the categories of impact wrenches (commonly broken down by power), you want to select something that helps you get the power you need to get the task done quickly. Every bolt has recommendations for torque, so be sure to make an order on something new, that’s easy to adjust, and has a proven customer satisfaction rating. 

Mobility

Want something that lets you work faster, takes less effort, and lets you breakaway from the restrictions of a wire? By going cordless, you are taking that power and adding a real degree of mobility to it. Yes, there are pros and cons to corded and cordless devices, and you must ensure you get the best battery (and perhaps a pair of them) to offset the biggest negative of cordless devices. Still, the biggest plus is mobility and not having to worry about being tethered to a power outlet.

These products tend to stand out simply because among their menu of different applications is portability. When you’re trying to manage your nuts and bolts, you need to be free to maneuver comfortably. With a portable wrench, you can get the job done, without any of the struggle since the cordless design can make a project way more efficient.

Speed

For you, is finding the right tool about a search for efficiency? Again, if a regular wrench could do all the jobs then we wouldn’t be looking at impact wrenches. Another advantage they have is speed, with an impact wrench able to tighten/loosen many more bolts than you could ever expect to achieve with a traditional wrench over the same time period.

If you’ve ever tried to work with nuts and bolts without a power tool, you know just how time-consuming it can be. Among the categories of features offered by power tools is speed. As new models come onto the market, the menu of ‘components improves. In 2020, brushless motors evolved into one of the standards; a common thing to order because the speed is so much more substantial. So, select something with speed so you can be a satisfied customer. 

Features to Consider when Buying a Cordless Impact Wrench

Air Impact Wrench vs. Cordless Impact Wrench

Air Impact wrenches are the Mack-Daddy of wrenches. They deliver phenomenal levels of torque, more than capable of tackling any job you throw at them. They are also a huge pain in the ass and have to be hooked up to big tanks of compressed air. It’s important to know if your search is taking you to the bulk and intensity of an air operated model or to the compactness and finesse of a cordless. 

That’s why you will see them in many professional garages, but not in many home set-ups. Frankly, the tech has now come to the stage that the best cordless impact wrench is more than capable of delivering the power you need, without the hassle and expense of compressed air versions.

Having to lug around large size tanks is sure to make the job more difficult (and cause a lot of fatigue). Sure, of these categories the air impact is more intense. However, unless you’re working in a pro setting, you can surely be a satisfied customer if you select one of the latest cordless wrenches for your order (and all the compact benefits it offers). 

Battery Type

The search for a good cordless impact wrench will naturally coincide with a search for a good battery. Cordless tools live and die (literally) by their batteries. More basic models will be powered by Nickel-Cadmium battery packs. This style of battery was invented way back in 1899 (when your Grandmother’s Grandmother was nursing a huge crush on teddy Roosevelt). Frankly, as a design, it’s starting to show its age.

If you can afford the extra money, it is well worth investing in a Lithium-ion style of battery. Not only do they hold more charge, but they can also give it out at a steadier rate. That means that the power they deliver is just as useful at 10% of total battery charge as it is as 100%.

Also, remember that battery voltage is the amount of power the battery can kick out, whilst Amp Hours is the amount of time it can hold that charge. Both numbers are important and you want them to be as high as possible. The amount of free and available power you can get relies on the amp settings. 

Grip

Impact wrenches can actually come in a few shapes and sizes, but in this guide, we’ve concentrated on models that – if you squint – look like standard power drills. We’ve done this as most cordless style impact wrenches are of this type. They are also simple to use. Of the categories of features to look at is the ease of use, and this lies in the grip. 

Because of their shape, they do need a good grip, so make sure you bear that in mind. A good grip should be ergonomic, so it’s comfortable to hold, with good trigger placement and a raised or rubberized surface so you can orient the tool in your hand by touch only.

Any customer who’s ever used a power tool knows the struggles of the search for something to hold for a long period of time. As new models become available, they are also more lightweight. Impact wrench products are lighter in 2020 than ever before. That means more emphasis can be placed on grip quality – so you’re free to get the hold that you like and work on as many nuts and bolts and auto products as the day allows.

Motor

It’s no secret that the search for a merit-worthy power tool relies a lot on the motor and the available power it supplies. Yes, pay attention to the torque it is putting out as well as the RPM and IPM as these are key indicators of the motor power. The higher the power, the more useful you’re going to find the tool because it will be able to tackle more jobs (if you’re unsure of the difference between Torque/RPM/IPM, we tackle it in the FAQ section below).

In the search for products that will work well, you’ll want to place a lot of focus on the motor. It’s more than the raw power; the motor dictates the amount of free energy to run the wrench, making it one of the most significant features on the wrench’s menu.

In addition to that though, you also need to be aware of whether your search leads you to a motor that is brushless or not. A brushless motor is almost always going to be seen in premium models because they add quite a few dollars to the price tag. While the latest models lean more towards brushless motors, there are still a lot of other products in the other categories. 

For the purpose of this guide, it’s enough to say that brushless motors have no moving parts (eliminating wear and tear for a longer lifespan) and are more powerful. Basically, if you are investing in new products for your garage’ products that you are sure to like and will hold the power you need, brushless is a good way to ensure that you are a satisfied customer after your order.

Cordless Impact Wrench Charging and Maintenance

After you’ve completed the search (as far as features go), it’s time to think about upkeep. The tools themselves are pretty tough and they are also pretty well locked up in their housings, making it hard to get at their guts for any in-depth repair work at all your job spaces – not that they really need much anyway. Just wipe them down with a rag after use and clean up any chemicals or oil that may spill on them. Since these products can get fairly greasy (pretty much immediately after work) regular cleaning is in order. 

Next comes the grip. Especially if you like a tight hold when fastening bolts,  and use it to get a good angle, this is one of the more important categories for upkeep. As textile science evolves, there are new materials used on the grip. Most comes made out of polymer. Keep it dry and store the equipment in the case to make sure that you get the most use out of your wrench.

The battery is a different matter though and in some ways the weak link of the design. It, therefore, needs some careful (but not difficult) maintenance to ensure it continues to perform to a high level. A good way to do this is to order a spare battery. It will let you always charge the battery fully and providing it a bit of downtime (batteries like to get time off, too) so it won’t risk breaking. Check out websites online to see tips on working with wrenches. 

The tricky thing is that all impact wrenches are different. If you have a 2-inch impact wrench, you might have different demands than an Ingersoll Rand model or a 1 2 impact wrench. Find a reputable website that deals with maintenance. 

First, plug in your specifications: whether it’s a 1-inch drive, a 2-inch impact wrench, or another size. Then, check for manufacturer specifics. It could be Dewalt or an Ingersol Rand or a Milwaukee. Figure out if it's an 18v or 20v max, and how to maintain those systems. 

cordless impact wrenches

There are, essentially, endless uses for a cordless impact wrench.

Best Cordless Impact Wrench Under $200

On a search for something the best impact wrench kit that won’t make a big dent in your bank account? While not quite as cheap as a few screws at the hardware store, you can still get cost-effective bolt removal tools that offer max torque without causing any nut busting damage. A few are even 18v or 20v and offer a long run time for their product class. We’ve identified the options with the top fastening torque that cost less than $200. 

Sure, most tools are worth the investment. Half your garage work is handling heavy duty metal, so why wouldn’t you get a class of wrench that can work with all types of metal without damaging parts or wrecking any nut busting problems. But, if you can get that bolt removal strength, max torque, and a lengthy run time at a low cost, why not go for it? 

It might surprise you that some of the best impact wrench kits, the ones with the friction rings and extensive sockets, fall in this price range. Turns out, you can get 18v, 20 volt (and even higher), max torque, and reliable friction rings for pretty cheap. It might not be able to tackle really heavy duty projects, but it’s sure a good start. 

  • Porter-Cable PCC740B Cordless Impact Wrench
  • Neiko Lithium-Ion Cordless Impact Wrench
  • Dobetter Power Wrench Tool Set
  • Black & Decker BDCI20C Impact Driver
  • Aircat Impact Wrench
  • Eneacro Cordless Impact Wrench

Best Cordless Impact Wrench For Automotive Work

Does your search focus on how easily the wrench will work on your vehicle? This all comes down to breakaway torque (especially when loosening in reverse). As a general note, it’s better to have a higher breakaway torque when working on vehicles. It goes along with loosening strength and can help the impact wrench work for longer. 

This isn’t the only thing to look for. In general, you want quality technology that has an extended list of uses. Instead of tripping over a cord line, you want something with a battery that will last longer than you need. Auto work involves loosening both medium and shorter bolts. You need technology that can keep up with these extended demands so you can save time.  

Options like the Dewalt 20v might cost a bit more, but they are more than just a single purpose. Sure, you can get something that costs less, but it might not be a powerful enough fastener to work on your truck. But it isn’t only the Dewalt 20v, there are lots of options with an extended list of capabilities. Cordless impact wrenches that work in mechanical situations are usually better as a fastener, less prone to breaking, and have a shorter time required to recharge the battery (if it runs on one). 

When you opt for something with more than a single purpose, you can cut a beeline through the noise and be sure that the wrench will hold up to the demands. 

  • DeWALT DCF899HB 20V Impact Wrench
  • Milwaukee 2767-20 High Torque Impact Wrench
  • Makita XWT11Z Brushless Impact Wrench
  • Porter-Cable PCC740B Cordless Impact Wrench
  • Neiko Lithium-Ion Cordless Impact Wrench  
  • Bosch IDH182-02 Brushless Impact Charger Kit 
  • Aircat Impact Wrench  
  • Eneacro Cordless Impact Wrench

Best Cordless Impact Wrench For Changing Tires

Is your search geared towards tire changes; swapping out nuts and bolts and other roadside tasks? This breakdown is geared towards fastening torque and bolt removal. You need to choose something that is big enough, with easy to control settings. As far as fasteners go, it doesn’t need to be the toughest for this category. What it needs to be is durable. It needs to travel along with you and be medium-sized or smaller to fit in the trunk. Ideally, it has three speed settings so you can use it in more ways than one. 

But if you blow a tire, having a three speed setting isn’t the most important thing in this category. It needs to be powerful enough to let you change a tire in the time it would take to send an email. The idea is that it is small enough to travel along with you, continue to provide value and not break, and still be a heavy duty tool. Choose something that is big enough to work, comes in a set including multiple sockets, and screws and fastens properly. This way, by the time that your email’s sent, you’re back on the road.

  • DeWALT DCF899HB 20V Impact Wrench
  • Milwaukee 2767-20 High Torque Impact Wrench
  • Makita XWT11Z Brushless Impact Wrench
  • Porter-Cable PCC740B Cordless Impact Wrench
  • Neiko Lithium-Ion Cordless Impact Wrench
  • Bosch IDH182-02 Brushless Impact Charger Kit
  • Aircat Impact Wrench
  • Eneacro Cordless Impact Wrench

Cordless Impact Wrench FAQ

Q:  What is a cordless impact wrench?

It is a powered wrench that draws its power from a battery. That means it has the power to tackle tough jobs with the maneuverability of not being tethered to a power outlet.

Q:  How does a cordless impact wrench work?

It contains a mass mounted inside which rotates to build stored energy. The order of operations is as follows: The mass is pushed through the socket as a series of tiny but powerful impacts, delivering far more torque than a standard power tool. Removal of this hammering effect would drastically reduce the power. The larger the impact site is, the stronger the effects. For instance, a 1 2 inch impact is weaker than a 1-inch drive, while a 2-inch impact wrench is stronger than both.

Q:  What’s the difference between a standard drill & an impact driver?

See above. A standard drill simply rotates the bit. An impact wrench uses the additional power of the impacts from the rotating mass to deliver extra power in the form of torque. Usually, an impact driver will have a 20v max design while a standard drill will be far weaker.

Q:  Can I use my impact driver on concrete?

No. A hammer drill would be the better tool here. These often-searched products are great at getting bolts free, working on lug nuts and bolts. Generally, a customer will be happier to use a hammer drill on concrete.

Q:  Will a cordless impact wrench remove lug nuts?

Yes and no (helpful, huh). Yes, in that most lug nuts should be fastened with a torque of about 100 lb/ft. So if your impact wrench can generate 100 lb/ft it should be able to remove the lug nut.

However, as time passes and the lug nut is frozen, stuck or starts to rust (or is accidentally over-tightened in the first place) more torque is needed from the impact wrench to get it undone. So it really depends if you’ve got a model with enough torque power to tackle the work. If you like to make the work a bit easier, search for (and order) products that can free stuck-on nuts and bolts and work well at removing lug nuts.

Q:  What does variable trigger speed mean?

It means that that the speed/power being utilized by the tool changes with the degree of force you put on the trigger. Depress it 50% of the way and get 50% of the power in the selected mode. Pull it all the way back to get full power.

It’s useful for easily (but not very accurately) adjusting torque and RPM on the fly. If being free to change the power mid-motion is amongst the more important categories for your criteria, search for products that specifically tout this function when placing your order. This way you can make sure you like the result. 

Q:  What’s the difference between RPM, IPM and Torque?

In the realm of the Impact wrench, Torque is king. Most wrenches will boast of their torque in their product descriptions and with good reason. Torque is after all the sheer power that the wrench can put out, and the best cordless impact wrench is going to generate high torque – if it doesn’t, it won’t be the best wrench, simple. The menu of categories in the specs will usually highlight these metrics to make sure a customer knows what they’re getting into. 

RPM and IPM are important too of course. RPM of course stands for Revolutions per Minute and refers to the times the wrench can spin the attached socket or bit. Impacts Per Minute (IPM) refers to the number of impacts form the internal mechanism (referred to as the “Hammer”) which is the part of the design that puts the Impact into Impact Wrench. Removing this would completely change the function.

When preparing to order your new wrench; one that you like, make sure the products you’re looking at have enough free power to meet all these demands (like the ones on this list). If the new wrench measures well in these categories, you can rely on it to be one of the more powerful new products out there. 

an impact wrench

Mechanic Using an Impact Wrench

Our Top Pick

As ever, it’s a real tough field to pick a winner from. It is though hard to look past the Dewalt DCF899HB as the overall winner. It just packs so many features into such a well-designed chassis it simply has to win.

Of all the features it is the brushless, 20 Volt motor that is the real jewel in the crown, combining genuine power with the brushless design’s longer life span. That makes this a great investment tool that should provide years of high quality service, paying for itself many times over.

Add in the traditional top quality construction and high-end build materials you expect from a company like DeWALT and we have no hesitation crowning this tool as the best cordless impact wrench on our list today.

Compact structure and higher range of motion come first when looking at options other than pneumatic wrenches And that’s why we selected the DeWalt: a menu of comprehensive features to help you tackle everything from small nuts and bolts to auto repairs. When you’re working in the garage or big work areas or tight spaces, you need something that can offer higher torque without taking a ton of space. This option is awesome at fastening and loosening, making it one of the most powerful cordless impact wrenches available.

Sources:

  1. Impact Wrench - Wikipedia
  2. Battery History – BatteryUniversity.com (You have to be a bright spark to graduate from this university).
  3. Brushless Motors – HowStuffWorks
  4. Battery Care – Today's Home Owner
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