The power tools market offers a large selection of different models of screwdrivers from many famous companies, as well as little-known manufacturers. Almost all tools are identical in design, and the difference in their performance can only be determined during their operation.
To choose from the mass of tools offered by the market the most high quality screwdriver, you need to familiarize yourself with their technical characteristics. In some circumstances, screwdrivers operating from the mains, compared to their cordless counterparts, have greater productivity, since no time is wasted on recharging them.
Design and properties of networked screwdrivers
These tools are equipped with an electric motor direct current, operating from an electrical network with a voltage of 220 V. They have a reverse button, with the help of which the polarity of the motor changes, so that it can rotate in reverse side. That is, by changing the direction of the engine torque, the tool can screw in screws or, conversely, unscrew them.
When installing a two-speed gearbox, the networker acquires some additional functions. For example, a corded two-speed screwdriver with a speed of 450 rpm does a good job of tightening/unscrewing screws and self-tapping screws. And at a speed within 1400 rpm. quickly drills holes in metal and other materials.
Benefits of the tool
Corded screwdrivers, compared to cordless tools, are smaller in size and light weight, since they do not have a bulky battery.
At long work The network adapter does not lose its power, while the cordless screwdriver gradually loses it as the battery discharges. Sometimes, due to the characteristics of some battery models, the entire work process may stop during charging. But with a drill-driver operating from a 220 V network, such a situation is not even foreseen.
The cost of a networker is much lower than its counterpart cordless screwdriver.
Chuck overview
Drill-drivers may differ in the mechanisms for holding attachments (bits), of which there are three types:
- Tooth chuck (key). A fairly reliable holding mechanism in which the bit is clamped using a special toothed wrench.
- Keyless chuck. Very convenient for quickly changing attachments or drills. The cartridge can be single-sleeve - one rotating clamping ring, or double-sleeve - with two clamping rings.
- Chuck exclusively for bits. This holding mechanism, in comparison with the described cartridges, which can also be used on conventional drills, intended for screwdrivers only.
The chucks, in addition to the clamping mechanisms, also differ in the diameter of the nozzles inserted into them. For household tools Typically, cartridges are used whose diameter of nozzles does not exceed 20 mm.
Criteria for choosing a drill-driver
The main function of a drill/driver is to drill holes in various materials. But it also has an additional function that allows you to tighten/unscrew screws, screws and other threaded connections. That is, this tool is practically universal with a wide range of specific capabilities.
If we analyze these devices based on their performance, we can identify the leading manufacturers of drills and screwdrivers for both professional use and household needs.
Among the reliable drilling tools the following stand out household models domestic production such as: Interskol, Enkor DE-450ER/10, Zubr, as well as Gardenlux CD14−22 and FIT-80014. All of them differ from ordinary models by the presence of two speeds:
- For tightening fasteners (screws, etc.), the speed is up to 400 rpm.
- For drilling, the range used is 400−1300 rpm.
A difference is also possible in the design of the electric motor, which may have graphite brushes or not have them at all. The advantage of a motor without graphite brushes is operation without unnecessary noise and special maintenance for replacing them.
Specifications
When choosing a drilling power tool, you should first of all pay attention to such points as:
Additional functions
- Chuck brake. To increase the safety of the person working with a screwdriver, the tool is equipped with a brake, which, when the start button is released, instantly stops the rotation of the chuck.
- Backlight. Some models, for the convenience of working in dimly lit rooms, are equipped with light bulbs that illuminate the work area.
- Design and ergonomics. Modern models screwdrivers are made in such a way that they are comfortable to hold in your hand when working, and all controls are within the reach of the hand that holds it. For example, forefinger is always located on the start button, and with your thumb you can easily switch reverse or speed.
On some models, there are special sockets for spare bits right on the tool body, which is quite convenient, especially when working on the roof. Many professional tools have special fastenings, allowing you to attach them to the mounting belt.
Rating of networked screwdrivers
It is unlikely that you should purchase a professional model of screwdriver for home needs. Firstly, they are quite expensive, and secondly, it may not be needed in everyday life, and throwing a large amount of money on a tool that will just sit on the shelf most of the time is completely irrational. For home purposes, it is better to purchase a tool of small or medium power. For example, the following are reliable and quite popular models:
Security measures
When working with power tools, you must follow safety precautions:
- Before turning on the power tool, you should visually check the tool to identify any defects in the body, power cable and rotating parts of the drill.
- Changing the nozzle, if it is a gear chuck, should only be done with a wrench designed for this purpose. In this case, you should make sure that the nozzle is securely fastened.
- Near working area there should be no foreign objects.
- When working, it is forbidden to touch the rotating elements of the drill.
- Do not try to stop the cartridge with your hands.
- Take care of your clothing and do not start work with loose clothing or long, flowing hair. All this can get wrapped around the rotating chuck of the drill.
- Do not leave the power tool switched on unattended; it should be unplugged immediately after finishing work.
When choosing a screwdriver, the consumer immediately faces the question - which is better: mains or cordless? Let's consider the option of purchasing a network tool and its advantages over its standalone counterpart.
What are the differences between a cordless and corded screwdriver?
The main advantage of a battery-powered screwdriver is the presence of an independent power source, which provides mobility and maneuverability to the operator. You can work in remote locations, in areas where there is no electrical connection.
But these tools have their drawbacks.
The autonomous power supplies in them are quite heavy, especially nickel-cadmium ones. Due to their presence, the dimensions and weight of the device are significantly increased, which makes it not very convenient to work extensively with the device at height.
Batteries must be periodically changed and recharged. This takes time and requires an electrical connection. So long-term operation at a distance from a constant source of electricity is limited by the battery capacity.
The most powerful ones, which are not cheap, are designed for continuous operation only up to 2-3 hours. Charging batteries often takes longer.
Batteries have a limited lifespan, and long-term storage reduces their charge. After a certain time, you will have to spend money on new power sources.
The price of stand-alone screwdrivers, especially those with high-power batteries, is higher than that of corded tools.
Nickel-cadmium sources, the most powerful in terms of the number of charges (up to 1000) and therefore used more actively than others, emit harmful substances.
Mains power for the screwdriver provides more high performance and greater continuity of ongoing work. And at home, the autonomy of a screwdriver is sometimes not of decisive importance.
Uninterruptible power supply means that the device will not lose power during continuous operation throughout the day.
The lightweight design allows you to perform significant volumes of work, including at height.
A corded screwdriver will work in the cold without any problems.
And finally, the price. A good corded screwdriver costs significantly less than its cordless counterpart.
Main technical characteristics of corded screwdrivers
The technical characteristics of a screwdriver determine its functionality. How long and reliably will it work, what operations can it perform, how convenient will it be to use, etc.
Power
This is the main indicator that affects the performance of the tool, as well as other parameters of the tool, such as speed and torque. To carry out long-term and varied in complexity work, you need a more powerful device. For home conditions, a 400-watt engine is quite enough.
If you also need a drilling function, you will need a tool with a power of 550-600 W. Devices with higher power are larger and consume more electricity.
Torque
It is measured in newton meters (Nm). Indicates the force with which the device will act on the screws being screwed in. This indicator determines what diameter and length of screws the screwdriver can handle.
So, with a value of up to 30 Nm, they can screw a screw into wood to a depth of up to 70 mm. For longer fasteners, the torque must be 40 Nm or the hole must be drilled first.
For screwdrivers, this characteristic is the main one and is always indicated. In addition, reliable manufacturers in their descriptions indicate the maximum permissible diameter of fasteners for specific materials.
RPM speed
In household tools this figure is 400 rpm. To perform the functions of a drill, higher speeds will be required (1300-1700 rpm). High speeds are especially necessary when working with iron.
The speed change is carried out at different models either by pressing the power key or by adjusting the wheel located on the button. Drill-drivers are equipped with a toggle switch for changing the speed mode.
Reverse
Mandatory for all screwdrivers. Provides a change in the direction of rotation of the spindle and, accordingly, the function of unscrewing screws. Rotation modes are switched using a button, which is often located next to the start key. A less reliable option is the plastic lever at the top above the key, which can easily break off.
Fixing the start button
May only be useful in drills and screwdrivers.
Case shape
The body can be manufactured in the form of:
Pistol. Typical for budget models. With such a housing it is convenient to press on the self-tapping screw while screwing it in, which has to be done due to the low power of the engine.
T-shaped. In this case, the handle is shifted to the center of the body. According to manufacturers, this configuration does not strain the hand during operation.
Traditional drill. This indicates the presence of a gearbox and other metal parts in the device, which is inherent in powerful professional tools and drills and screwdrivers. Such devices often have to be supported with a second hand, since their weight approaches 3 kg.
Types of corded screwdrivers
As we have already found out, network screwdrivers are divided into devices only with the function of screwing in and out of screws and devices with a drill function. On the second, you can set the drill mode at a higher speed - up to 1500 rpm.
These devices also differ in the type of cartridge in which the attachments and bits are mounted. According to their design, chuck clamps are divided into the following types:
A toothed or keyed chuck in which the shank of the nozzle is secured and finally secured with a special key. This type of fastening is considered more reliable;
A quick-release chuck (QLC), in which the attachment is secured by manually rotating the clamping sleeve. The nozzle can be changed in a matter of seconds.
Magnetic hexagon chuck. The bit is simply inserted into it, there is no need to tighten anything. As a result, the disadvantage of this fastening is the slight play of the bit.
The main characteristics of cartridges include their diameter. The larger one allows you to use more powerful attachments. For household tools, a maximum Ø of up to 20 mm is sufficient.
If the screwdriver chuck is not suitable for specific operations, you can use adapters. Their cost is low, and there is always a sufficient assortment on sale.
To decide which screwdriver to choose, decide on the range of tasks to be performed. For fastening self-tapping screws in wooden structures A low-power network device with a quick-release chuck is suitable. A drill-driver is useful for drilling in small quantities. To perform more serious drilling work, especially metal, it is better to purchase a separate drill.
Photo of a corded screwdriver
An electric screwdriver is one of the popular tools that everyone has probably heard of. Any owner must have this tool at his disposal, because it can be used to perform various works around the house. Using a corded screwdriver, you can tighten a variety of bolts or screws, often self-tapping screws, in a matter of seconds.
Sometimes there is a need to assemble new furniture. Use for this various kinds screwdrivers are very inconvenient, and such assembly will take a lot of time. In such a situation, the screwdriver will simply an indispensable tool. Many modern networked models of screwdrivers can be called quite cheap, but they have good specifications and you can use them for many years (if, of course, you use them correctly and care for them properly).
Content:
Despite the fact that the choice of electric screwdrivers is very large, determining which one is best for you can sometimes be difficult, especially if you are completely unfamiliar with this tool. When purchasing, you need to take into account many nuances, ranging from how often you plan to use the tool and for what purpose.
Which corded screwdriver is better to buy for the home? actual question and if you can't do it yourself right choice, then the advice of our experts will help you solve this problem.
Advantages and disadvantages of corded screwdrivers
If the question is about what are the differences between cordless and corded types of power tools, then the most important thing is, of course, the method of powering the tool. Today, most people try to buy . After all, they allow you to work anywhere without any restrictions. This means that before starting work you do not need to look for sockets in the room or use several extension cords to perform one or another manipulation.
At the same time, the power supply of a screwdriver may differ due to the fact that different types of batteries are installed in the tool. Today there are three different types batteries, namely:
- lithium-ion (Li-Ion);
- nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH);
- nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd).
Experts say that the lithium-ion battery type can be called the most environmentally friendly. At the same time, tools with such a battery do not tolerate fairly low temperatures very well.
How to choose the right screwdriver video
The nickel-metal hydride type can withstand no more than 500 charges, and the nickel-cadmium type, in turn, can withstand a little more than 1000. Thus, the second option is quite popular among users, both professionals and those who take the tool for home use. At the same time, it is very important to remember one negative point: cadmium is very harmful to the human body, and therefore long-term use of a screwdriver with such a battery can cause health problems.
Today you can find tools on sale that are quite capable of supporting several different types batteries and work fully on them.
Which corded screwdriver is better to choose, professional or household?
Most people are sure that if they buy any equipment, then their choice should be exclusively professional. Of course, such a solution can be called logical, but such a technique will not always work well enough at home. Professional screwdrivers have many positive aspects, which include the following:
- such tools are more reliable and their service life is longer;
- they have several times better technical characteristics;
- Included with the screwdriver is a much more powerful special “charger” that can be used to quickly charge the battery of a power tool.
At the same time, there are some drawbacks:
- Tool cost. Even if we take into account very strong competition, the price of professional tools will still be much higher than that of a regular household model.
- The weight of a professional device is also, as a rule, greater than that of a household device, which often makes working with the tool quite difficult and inconvenient.
- Most of the technical characteristics of a professional screwdriver may turn out to be unnecessary or superfluous when using the tool at home.
- As a rule, if you plan to use the tool exclusively at home, then a household appliance will be more than enough, because a professional tool is nothing more than an unnecessary overpayment of money, which may not justify itself in the future.
The main technical indicators of any power tool include the power of the tool, torque, reverse, rotation speed, adjustment of the number of revolutions, ergonomics, as well as the type and size of the chuck.
The higher the power of the tool, the more high level it can boast of productivity. At the same time, you need to remember that fairly powerful screwdrivers are heavy and working with them will not always be convenient.
In addition, it is worth talking about torque, or the force that acts on the tool and causes it to rotate. Depending on this indicator, you need to choose the size of bolts and screws that the tool can work with. At the same time, this also affects the quality of materials that can be processed using an electric screwdriver.
Each of the characteristics plays a big role and must be taken into account when choosing a tool for home use. Do not forget that you also need to examine the ones that will be used when working with a corded screwdriver. Experts recommend buying a ready-made set, which will make the work easier and the necessary attachment will always be at your fingertips. Choose more expensive and high-quality products, because this will allow you to use the attachments several times longer. As practice shows, cheaper analogs are only enough for a few uses and then you need to buy new ones.
Today, the choice of power tools in any hardware store so big that it is very easy to get confused. But at the same time, there are certain manufacturers who have already earned trust and their products can be called one of the best. The most popular manufacturers of power tools in the modern world are considered to be: Makita, Bosch and Hitachi. The tools of these companies are distinguished by their reliability, they last quite a long time, although their cost is a little high.
Cheaper manufacturers of corded screwdrivers are also suitable for home use. For example, German manufacturers such as DeWalt and an American company, Black & Decker, have proven themselves well.
Expert tips for choosing a screwdriver video
Which corded screwdriver is best to buy for your home can only be said after considering all the technical characteristics of the tools. In addition, it is advisable to compare several models. If you do not understand this issue at all, then consult with the seller, who will tell you about all the positive and negative aspects of a particular screwdriver model.
A screwdriver is a tool that every owner should have. Which a screwdriver is better buy for housework - consider the rating of the best and the rules for selecting this indispensable assistant in the household.
First of all, you don’t need to chase the cheapest one, even if you only need the tool once. The manufacturer and model must be selected depending on the following technical characteristics of the tool: speed, power, operating mode and other parameters. Next, we will present in more detail all the information about choosing screwdrivers and consider the most popular ones.
Modern screwdriver
A screwdriver is a universal device that is actively used in everyday life. The purpose of such a power tool is to tighten and unscrew screws and self-tapping screws.
There are dozens of models of similar instruments in stores, which are divided into several categories. Before choosing a screwdriver, you should determine the criteria and conditions under which it will be used.
The price range of the described category of power tools is wide, so everyone can choose a model for themselves according to their expected budget.
The choice greatly depends on the operating conditions. For home use Only technical parameters are relevant. For professional use, you will need more expensive and powerful versions with a removable battery.
Choosing a tool for home and work
To make the right choice and buy a suitable screwdriver, you need to decide on the selection criteria. There are not that many of them, and the process itself seems simple, but in order not to regret the purchase later, it is better to clarify the nuances that may not be known to everyone.
The most important thing is to determine for yourself the frequency and intensity with which the tool will be used. If you need it to tighten several screws once or twice a month, the most budget model is enough. However, for more frequent use, you should choose more carefully and thoroughly.
A common mistake is to choose the cheapest model to use the tool for just a couple of days, but under heavy loads. For example, to assemble a metal structure (like a garage), or install fences in a country house, the first cheap model you come across is not very suitable.
The first question that buyers of such a device ask themselves is the type of power supply. Today, models are offered with a power cord (the tool only works from a 220 V outlet), as well as with a replaceable battery.
Before choosing the right battery-powered screwdriver, you need to determine in what conditions and for what purposes it will be used. The fact is that battery power is limited, so a high-quality model of a screwdriver with a power cord can be more powerful.
On average, one battery charge is enough for 100-250 screws. As the battery life increases, the power of the device decreases, which increases the tightening time and increases the load on the motor.
The capacity of the battery itself is also limited. The manufacturer indicates that it is enough for several hundred charge and discharge cycles, after which it will be necessary to purchase a separate component for a specific model.
Difficulty may arise if the owner has had the screwdriver for a long time, and this version is no longer available. Therefore, you will have to spend some time to find the right battery, identical in power and mounting.
Cordless screwdrivers also have their own advantages, which include autonomy. Network models usually have a cord up to one meter long. This is not even enough to connect the device to the nearest outlet, so you always have to use an extension cord.
If work is carried out outside the garage or home, additional expenses will be required. It is also difficult to work with a network tool at heights (for example, if you are assembling frames, tall furniture, structures, canopies, gazebos, garages, and the like).
Therefore, before choosing a cordless screwdriver, you must determine how important autonomy is to you. After all, corded power tools in this category can cost several times less than options with a removable battery.
Corded screwdrivers are more affordable. They have the same level of torque, regardless of operating time. The minimum rotation speed is 250-300 rpm. This is enough to drill holes in boards up to two centimeters thick and screw screws into them.
To work with thicker material, you should select a more powerful model. The average value for difficult working conditions is 750-1300 rpm.
Specifications
To know which screwdriver to choose, you also need to have knowledge technical parameters each category of power tool. Before choosing a cordless screwdriver, you need to pay attention to the type of battery. The duration of operation of the device on a single charge and the overall battery life will depend on this.
The following types are distinguished: Ni-Mh (nickel-metal hydride), Ni-Cd (nickel-cadmium), as well as Li-Ion and lithium polymer (Li-Pol). In the first case, a large current can be supplied, but the operating life of the device is less than that of other batteries. Devices with a Ni-Cd battery have higher energy consumption.
Nickel batteries are used less frequently because physical properties they are prone to discharge if not used for several weeks. Lithium batteries more practical, but they are not without drawbacks. For example, in extreme cold, battery life is reduced by 30-50%. Optimal parameter in terms of capacity it is 2 Ah.
Pay attention to this indicator when choosing to ensure stable operation of the device for several hours.
In the description, the operating mode is most often indicated as “unstressed and reverse”. This means that the screwdriver can only be used in the standard mode of rotating the attachment in one or the other direction. The minimum power rating is 400-800 W.
For professional use, you will need 1000 W or more to ensure stable and smooth operation even under high loads. Low values are relevant for cordless screwdrivers that are intended for simple tasks.
Criterias of choice
Corded screwdrivers are selected by power, chuck type and bit rotation speed. In the first case, it is necessary to select models with a minimum power of 600 W, as indicated above.
It is also necessary to take into account the rotation speed of the nozzle. The higher it is, the smoother and more stable the drill or screwdriver will enter wood and metal. At a low rotation speed, working on metal becomes more difficult, and the risk of motor overheating also increases. The cartridge diameter in most models is 10 millimeters, which is the standard.
In the list of characteristics there is an item about the type of cartridge. Today, quick-release or hexagonal chucks are distinguished. The first option is more practical for everyday use, since replacing the nozzle does not require the use of a separate hex key.
A single or double clutch chuck is tightened by hand. The first option requires less effort - this design is often installed on expensive screwdrivers.
The hex chuck requires clamping the bits with a separate key, which is included with the device. Additionally, such screwdrivers are always equipped with bits with different tips, which can be changed with one hand, and then tighten the connector with a small wrench.
When choosing, it is important to pay attention to the total weight of the tool. Models with a battery weigh 0.5-1 kilograms more than networked options, which can lead to inconvenience during long-term operation.
If a screwdriver weighs up to two kilograms, this will reduce the accuracy of its use and accelerate the onset of physical fatigue for the operator.
Few people notice such a detail as the position of the handle. Some power tool models have a standard “pistol” shape, while others have a handle offset to the center to stabilize the center of gravity. The second option is more convenient for frequent use– the load is distributed and centered in the handle itself, which requires less effort.
On today's market there are a large number of models of screwdrivers for every taste and budget. In order to accurately select a tool for your purposes, you need to familiarize yourself with the main advantages and disadvantages of specific options and the characteristics by which the division into types is carried out.
First of all, when choosing a power tool, you need to clearly define the scope of its use. Often, the household segment of power tools has a much lower cost than professional ones.
Second distinctive feature home appliances are their characteristics: such a tool may not have all the features of high-end models, nor have the increased power, performance or rugged casing, but nevertheless, it is brilliant for everyday work around the house or workshop.
An amateur mini-screwdriver most often works with batteries, which makes it mobile and practical.
Professional models are designed for long-term work under heavy loads. Such large and heavy tools are usually powered, which ensures uninterrupted and long-term operation, provided there is stable access to the power supply.
Additional functions of screwdrivers
Manufacturers may add additional features to power tools. They do not affect the power or efficiency of work, but if they are present, using a screwdriver becomes more comfortable.
Among these functions, we can highlight the presence of a backlight near the handle to illuminate the working area (simplifying the use of power tools in a dark place). Also worthy of attention is the pulse mode of operation, in which it is easier to work with soured screws and self-tapping screws.
Mains or battery
As mentioned above, electric screwdrivers are divided into two large groups: mains-powered and those that operate using rechargeable batteries.
- In order to settle on one of the options, you should clarify the difference between them:
- batteries make devices larger and heavier, while network devices are characterized by lightness, but being tied to the place of use;
- network models are more often used for professional work, and rechargeable for short-term use;
- If there is a stable connection, corded screwdrivers work for a long time without overloads or excessive heating, while cordless ones will have to be replaced or recharged;
- The cord tends to get tangled when working with a network device; with a stand-alone model, you can forget about such problems.
The popularity of cordless professional and household screwdrivers is due to their ergonomic design, quality and independence in operation. Due to high demand, it is worth focusing on these models and considering the types of batteries used.
Before choosing a screwdriver for your home, garage or cottage, you should decide on its power source. Networked models use a regular household network for this, and battery-powered devices are equipped with a removable battery. Each type has its pros and cons.
The cordless screwdriver is good for its autonomy. It is conditionally independent of the outlet and can be used even in an open field. This expands the scope of application of such a tool. However, the battery also imposes limitations.
The first of these is limited operating time. Usually the charge is enough for a hundred or two self-tapping screws, but in difficult conditions the autonomy is reduced. The second disadvantage is limited power (torque).
It may not be sufficient for working with hard and durable materials. There are positive exceptions, like the professional Makita DTD146Z, but they are not cheap.
A corded corded screwdriver is a tool with higher power and rotation speed. It does an excellent job of tightening screws and self-tapping screws, can be used in drilling mode, and due to the absence of a heavy battery, it weighs less. A constant power source means you don’t have to think about saving battery power.
However, you can only work with such a screwdriver away from an outlet if you have a long carrier or a generator. There are exceptions here too, but unpleasant ones: the cheapest Chinese models are no more powerful than their battery-powered counterparts, but they are also not autonomous. The minimum acceptable choice is something like the Dnepr DE-850.
Which screwdriver to choose – corded or cordless – depends on the needs and expected operating conditions. If the tool will not be used outside the house, apartment, garage or other premises, a networked one is better. It's cheaper for the same power, lighter, and ready to use anywhere, anytime.
The cordless screwdriver is optimal for outdoor use, including outside populated areas. At the same time, it is advisable to choose models with a capacious battery of at least 2 Ah.
Which battery type to choose?
- Nickel-cadmium batteries
The undeniable advantage of this type of battery is its low cost. Ni-Cd batteries are most often used by manufacturers to create budget lines of power tools. Another advantage is the five-year warranty period, which exceeds the standard by 2 years.
- Nickel metal hydrate batteries
They are characterized by a high level of environmental friendliness and are increasingly used in the production of high-end cordless tools. The dimensions and light weight of the batteries make the tool itself much lighter and more convenient. Perhaps the only drawback of Ni-Mn batteries is their high cost.
- Lithium-ion batteries
These batteries are considered the best for mobile power tools. They hold a charge for a long time, charge very quickly, and they also do not have a charge memory effect. The only disadvantage of Li-Ion batteries is their high cost.
- When choosing an effective screwdriver with a battery, you need to carefully consider its characteristics, because the cost of the battery is half the cost of the entire tool:
- the total voltage in different batteries is from 10 to 24 V, the power of the device depends on it and affects the operating time;
- The material used to make the battery affects the capacity of the batteries;
- loss of battery capacity due to the charge memory effect.
A cordless screwdriver, the price of which depends on the type of battery and other characteristics important for high-quality work of any complexity, is a sought-after tool in every home.
Power and torque
The second thing to consider before choosing a screwdriver is its power and torque. Very often, sellers indicate power, but do not indicate the torque of the model and are silent about the power of cordless tools.
With power, everything is quite simple: 600-800 W is more than enough for non-professional (home) use, if you don’t also need to drill a lot. But the torque is worth considering in more detail.
The torque (measured in Newton meters - N*m) of a screwdriver determines how much force it can apply when tightening a screw. The higher this value, the harder and stronger materials the screw will go into. If there is not enough torque, the transmission mechanism of the tool will slip and the screw will get stuck halfway.
In order to screw small screws (up to 50 mm) into not very hard wood, any screwdriver is sufficient. However, to work with hard wood, it is necessary that the torque be at least about 15 N * m. For longer screws and self-tapping screws, you need 20-30 N*m, and models with 40 N*m and more will cope with screwing “hundreds” into solid timber.
Rotational speed
For a household screwdriver, rotation speed is not a fundamentally important parameter. The tools are equipped with a reduction gear mechanism that converts high speeds on the motor shaft into low speeds on the chuck.
A couple of hundred revolutions per minute is enough for screwing, but a high rotation speed can cause the bit to jump off. This leads to both premature wear of the nozzles and licking of the slot of the screw head.
Before choosing a screwdriver with drill functions, you still need to pay attention to the speed. When working with hard materials there are never enough of them. 1000 rpm is the minimum suitable for materials of similar hardness, and 3000 rpm will not hurt.
Chuck type
Another point that needs to be taken into account when deciding which screwdriver to choose is the type of chuck. A universal solution is a quick-release chuck in which the bit is secured by rotating the clamping ring.
It allows you to use not only bits, but also drills and heads for tightening nuts. You can also insert a mixer attachment into a similar cartridge for mixing the solution, or an umbrella sanding brush.
The hexagonal chuck for bits is good because it reduces the weight of the tool and also allows you to quickly change attachments. They are held in it by a special retainer or magnet and can be removed with a little force. However, a drill cannot be inserted into such a chuck.
There are exceptions - these are models that are also equipped with a removable quick-release chuck. They are the most versatile, since they are easier to twist screws and can be used for other purposes.
Review of popular brands
How to choose a cordless screwdriver, which company is better? To simplify the final choice of model, it is necessary to indicate the most popular brands under whose logos modern power tools are produced. Durability and cost partly depend on this, so choosing a specific manufacturer should not be neglected.
- Review of popular models:
- Makita is a Japanese company that produces high-quality power tools (founded in 1915);
- Dnipro-M is a Ukrainian manufacturer that develops and manufactures power tools in an affordable price segment (most models are produced in China);
- Bosch is a German company that does not require a separate introduction;
- Vertex is a power tool company in Taiwan;
- Forte is a certified Ukrainian manufacturer of power tools.
Top 10 rating of cordless drills and screwdrivers
Bosch GSR 180-LI
The leader of the rating is the model of a world-famous brand. It features excellent strength and wear resistance of components and parts. Ideal for those looking for the best reliable screwdrivers for professional use.
At affordable price(in terms of cost it ranks 5th among the presented samples, if you arrange them in ascending order of price) is equipped with an excellent set of functions.
- Pros:
- high power (battery voltage 18 V);
- large battery capacity (1.5 Ah);
- Availability of a tool and battery protection system;
- replaceable carbon brushes;
- easy and inexpensive maintenance.
Metabo PowerMaxx BS
In second place is also a “German”, but of a different brand. A tool with small dimensions and impressive torque, worthy of topping any rating of screwdrivers for the home. Equipped with a removable drill chuck.
- Pros:
- light weight (0.8 kg);
- unique control and monitoring system Metabo Ultra-M;
- Solid power in compact dimensions.
Metabo BS 18
An excellent choice for working in cramped conditions with difficult access. The screwdriver comes with a belt clip that can be installed on both sides. There is LED backlighting.
- Pros:
- shortened design;
- battery protection technology during operation and during charging;
- 3 years warranty on battery.
Bosch GSB 120-LI
New for 2017. This is an excellent choice of budget impact screwdrivers. A long battery life is ensured by a protection mechanism against overload, deep discharge and overheating. There is a soft pad on the handle.
- Pros:
- good functionality (electronic speed control, reverse, coasting brake);
- compact size.
Powered by two high capacity lithium-ion batteries. The weight of the tool is only 800 g. The ergonomic body contributes to ease of use. There is a built-in magnetic bit holder.
- Pros:
- compact body;
- adjustable eccentric;
- extended set (bit holder and drill chuck adapters, angle attachment and angle adapter, quick-discharge device, 2 batteries, charger, case, case inserts).
Bosch GSR 12V-20 (L-Boxx)
A fully functional tool, ready to go. It features an optimal power-to-weight ratio. Equipped with brushless motor, built-in LED backlight. There is a battery charge indicator.
- Pros:
- full-fledged drill chuck 10 mm;
- light weight (900 g).
Makita DF457DWE
A screwdriver with a powerful, dust-proof gearbox and the ability to adjust speed. Equipped with a powerful clamp chuck and overload protection function. Automatically turns off to restore battery functionality after long-term continuous operation.
- Pros:
- keyless chuck;
- durable gearbox, protected from dust;
- speed regulation.
Makita DF331DWAE
Compact drill/driver with 18 torque settings. Equipped with a gearbox with two operating speeds. Productive and convenient work with the tool is ensured by the engine stop system. Features include backlight and reverse.
- Pros:
- two-speed gearbox;
- comfortable handle with non-slip rubber insert.
Metabo BS 18 LTX Impuls
Productive and reliable, lightweight and compact screwdriver. Has an “Impulse” mode for drilling on smooth surfaces and unscrewing stuck screws. Equipped with a metal (aluminum) gearbox and gears, battery blocks with capacity indicator, and an additional handle.
- Pros:
- overload protection;
- 4-pole motor for fast screwdriving and drilling;
- a spindle with a hexagon for attachments makes it possible to do without a chuck.
Metabo PowerMaxx BS Quick Pro
The screwdriver has ergonomic design. Mechanical transmission eliminates wear due to friction. Thanks to a simple system for replacing the cartridge and other components, the tool is convenient to use. Illumination of the working area is provided.
- Pros:
- updated engine and gearbox;
- convenient battery charge indicator.
conclusions
To immediately know which screwdriver to buy for your home or work, you need to study the working conditions described above, as well as the factors for choosing a tool. The following is an objective list of the advantages and disadvantages of each type of device.
- Advantages of mains powered power tool models:
- Maintaining rated power, regardless of operating time;
- Ability to work unlimited time without breaks to recharge;
- Lower cost of power tools compared to battery versions.
- Disadvantages of a mains-powered screwdriver:
- Difficulty working at heights (it is difficult to hold the tool level along with a long wire and extension cord);
- You cannot work without an extension cord and a 220 V socket (the working area is limited to a few tens of meters from the socket).
Based on the list of advantages and disadvantages, it is important to say that a corded screwdriver is the optimal solution for an apartment or private house. In this case, you need to stock up on an extension cord of 5-20 meters to ensure freedom of movement with a power tool in your hands.
The average resource of such devices is not limited. According to users, on average one model can withstand 2-4 years of active use.
- Advantages of cordless screwdrivers:
- Possibility of remote work, regardless of the proximity of the outlet;
- Possibility of developing high speed of the nozzle.
Disadvantages include limited operating time, limited battery capacity and weak power of cheap models.
If you need a device without a power cord for work or at home, it is more important to take high-quality, expensive versions of a cordless screwdriver. This will reduce the time required for charging and provide consistent power even when working with hard materials.
