Best Cordless Screwdrivers

If you love doing home improvement projects, you already know the importance of having good tools. But even if you’re not a handywoman (or handyman), at some point you’re going to need to fix something around the house, and there’s a good chance that it’s going to require a screwdriver. Screwdrivers are among the simplest tools out there, but they can be a pain to use, especially for larger projects or if you have health issues that can make using one painful. Fortunately, there are plenty of power screwdrivers on the market that can make the chore much easier, and cordless screwdrivers come with the added benefit of being much more portable—you can take them to wherever they’re needed, without having to look for a power outlet. Here are some ways to find the best cordless screwdriver to fit your work needs:

When you start looking for your next power tool, there are two main varieties to be aware of:

• Cordless screwdrivers: This might seem obvious, but the simplest cordless screwdrivers do just that: allow you to insert and remove screws, and that’s it. If you’re looking for a straightforward tool for that one job, then this is the best option for you.
• Cordless drills: Cordless drills have a bit more flexibility than power screwdrivers. You can still use them to insert and remove screws, but as the name implies, they can also be used to drill holes in some woods and metals, as well as drywall. Because of this, cordless drills tend to be a bit more powerful.

Here are some of the things customers talk about when reviewing cordless screwdrivers:

• Durability: Every piece of equipment will eventually break down and need to be replaced. However, the best brands—which aren’t necessarily the most expensive—will last a long time without giving out.
• Batteries: Since cordless screwdrivers operate using rechargeable batteries, it makes sense that battery life is an important factor in choosing one. The top brands have long-lasting batteries and indicators that let users know when it’s time to stop working and recharge.
• Weight: This is a balancing act. The best brands give users all the power they need without being too heavy. At the same time, many reviewers report having issues with extremely lightweight screwdrivers not having the power to get jobs done.
• Flexibility: Great screwdrivers are able to do a lot of different jobs. Top brands are able to work with a variety of screw heads, and are designed to get into a number of different places to get the job done.

• Voltage: When it comes to cordless tools, voltage means power. If you work mostly on small jobs, then you probably don’t need a screwdriver with a lot of power (although it never hurts to have one). On the other hand, if you generally do big jobs—or you use your screwdriver to drill holes into harder materials—then you’ll want to go with a more powerful model. You can find a screwdriver’s voltage in its product specifications.
• Articulation: An articulating head is one that isn’t set in one place; instead, it can swivel into different positions. With screwdrivers, that range of motion is usually limited, but even a small amount of movement can help when working in tight spaces, so it might be a feature that is useful to you.
• Shape: Traditional “gun-shaped” screwdrivers and drills are generally a bit bulkier, which means they have extra weight behind them (and many times, stronger motors), but it can also make them a bit less flexible. Smaller “stick-shaped” screwdrivers can fit into tight spaces in many cases, but sometimes aren’t quite as powerful. If you know your usual screwdriving needs, you’ll be able to pick the type that best fits your needs.
• Additional equipment: When looking at a product description, check out the different drill bits, screwdriver heads, and other “add-ons” that come with a screwdriver, and choose one that will give you the equipment that best fits the jobs you typically do.

The leading manufacturers of cordless screwdrivers have one thing in common: they have all been around for a long time, having started off as tool manufacturers before moving into power tools. As such, they all have had plenty of time to perfect their craft.

Black & Decker: Black & Decker is one of the leading tool manufacturers in the world, and has been almost since its founding in Baltimore, Maryland in 1910. The company has a well-deserved reputation for high-quality equipment, both manual and powered.

Dewalt: Dewalt is an American industry leader in powered tools and equipment. Founded in 1924, the company’s products are a popular choice for professionals, and can be found on many construction sites and workshops. Their smaller-scale tools are equally popular among home improvement enthusiasts.

Hitachi: Hitachi is a Japanese electronics manufacturer. Founded in 1910, the company has a strong reputation in a variety of fields, from electronics to tools.

Makita: Makita is a Japanese tool manufacturer. Founded in 1915, Makita began producing power tools in the late 1960s, and has since branched into other areas of home improvement.