The impact wrench is a highly efficient tool designed to relieve you of the strenuous task of tightening and loosening nuts, bolts and screws. It will come into use for everything from vehicle and machinery maintenance (e.g. changing a tyre) to carpentry projects. It replaces the obsolete rachet and breaker bars and makes the tightening and removal of nuts and bolts a way quicker and easier job saving you a lot of time and effort. An impact wrench is straightforward to use and can perform tasks even in tight spaces but should be used under caution. For DIYers we suggest a cordless impact wrench for its convenience, versatility and portability.
Our list is in no particular order and is compiled of some of the most popular Impact Wrenches on the market including budget and high-end professional options. We have tried to include a range of top brands such that whether you are a Milwaukee mega-fan or a DeWalt disciple there should be an Impact Wrench for you.
Another indispensable tool for DIYers is the cordless drill; they offer convenience as well as packing a real punch – read about our top 5 here: Top 5 Cordless Drills UK 2022
1. Milwaukee M18 One-Key Fuel 12in Impact Wrench with Friction Ring
Description:
The wrench’s 4-modes maximises its versatility allowing it to be used for a plethora of applications. It’s ONE-KEY tool tracking and security offers a free of charge cloud-based tracking network and inventory management platform for your tools. Mode 4 bolt removal, provides a maximum nut-busting of 1898 Nm then shifts to 750 rpm for outstanding control when removing fasteners.
Features:
- 4 -Mode DRIVE CONTROL allows the user to shift into four different speed and torque settings
- Its compact size of 213 mm gives more access in tight spaces
- REDLINK PLUS electronic intelligence delivers outstanding power, run time and durability
- ONE-KEY features a remote locking functionality
Specifications:
- No load speeds: 0-550rpm, 0-1400rpm, 0-1750rpm, 0-1750rpm
- Impact rate: 0-950ipm, 0-1750ipm, 0-2100ipm, 0-2100ipm
- Maximum torque: 130Nm, 400Nm, 1356Nm, 1356Nm
- Weight: 3.3Kg with battery pack
- Number of modes: 4
Things to note from users:
✅“As I expected from Milwaukee great quality and performance. It is small enough to work in tight spaces but still powerful enough for wheel nuts.”
✅“Excellent. Pleasure to use.”
❌“No longer manages to loosen a wheel bolt.”
❌“I expected more for the money.”
A word on Milwaukee:
Milwaukee is an industry-leading manufacturer and marketer of heavy-duty, portable electric power tools and accessories. Milwaukee continues to lead with a focus on providing innovative, trade-specific solutions. They take the time to work side-by-side with real craftsman to understand the demands of a constantly changing workplace and how they can best deliver solutions that help the user work faster and smarter.
2. DeWalt 18V High Torque Brushless 3 Speed Impact Wrench 12 Square Drive
Description:
Its powerful fan cooled motor makes it ideal for heavy duty fastening applications and ensures the removal of the tightest bolts. This wrench offers 3 speed and torque settings that gives the user maximum control to best suit the application.
Features:
- Fitted with a comfortable rubber XR grip and switch for greater application comfort and maximum control
- Powerful fan cooled motor
- Bright white LED with a delay feature provides improved visibility and flashlight functionality
- ½” square drive with detent pin allows for highly efficient torque delivery
Specifications:
- No load speeds: 400rpm, 1,200rpm, 1,900rpm
- Impact rate: 0-2,400ipm
- Maximum torque: 135Nm, 400Nm, 950Nm
- Weight: 3.3kg
- Number of modes: 3
A few things to note from users:
✅“An amazing tool. Loads of power. The quality seems great.”
✅“It’s pretty heavy but it’s built like a tank and looks as if it will last.”
❌“The wrench stops working after a week.”
❌“Burnt bolt driver after 4 trailer hitch screws!”
A word on DeWalt:
DeWalt Industrial Tool Company is a worldwide market leading manufacturer of power tools, hand tools and accessories for the construction, manufacturing and woodworking industries, as well as DIY. DeWalt tools are engineered to exceed the expectations of building contractors and professional tradesmen, even when put through the most extreme applications and environments.
3. Bosch 18V Brushless Impact Wrench Driver
Description:
This Bosch impact wrench comes with a Bluetooth connectivity module for tool Feeback, it also gives additional tool control by activating the tool’s soft start feature. It is light and compact to make work as comfortable and stress free as possible.
Features:
- Powerful use even in hard-to-reach areas due to head length to torque ratio
- 2 in 1 bit holder: ¼” internal hex and ½” square drive makes it flexible
- Robust and powerful design with a brushless EC motor
- Forward and reverse rotation for inserting and removing screws
Specifications:
- No load speeds: 1,100rpm, 2,300rpm, 3,400rpm
- Impact rate: 0-2,300bpm, 3,400bpm, 4,000bpm
- Maximum torque: 200Nm
- Weight: 1.2kg
- Number of modes: 3
A few things to note from the user:
✅“Powerful, small size and well balanced. Useful dual-tool attachment.”
✅“The ability to use ¼” hex and sockets directly is fantastic.”
❌“Even when the drill is in use it does not feel powerful.”
❌“Only had this tool 4 weeks and the quick-change chuck has broken.”
A word on Bosch:
The company has been able to distinguish itself from other brands of DIY power tools by aiming for long-term and high-end, from its famous green drill to complex products such as rippers or garden tools. This was the success we know. Bosch currently employs 280,000 people worldwide and generates 46 billion euros in sales. Bosch spends up to 10% of its turnover on R & D, a rare effort in the industry.
4. Makita 18V LXT 3/8 Brushless Impact Wrench
Description:
This brushless impact wrench has been designed to combine great user handling and ease of use with high power and compatibility. The machines versatility makes is perfect for mechanics, plumber and tradesmen. Its brushless motor results in extended runtime, reliability and extended tool lifetime.
Features:
- Variable speed trigger
- Ergonomic soft grip
- LED job light
- 2-stage impact power selection
Specifications:
- No load speeds: 1,300rpm, 2,400rpm
- Impact rate: 0-2,000ipm, 3,600ipm
- Maximum torque: 310Nm
- Weight: 1.2kg
- Number of modes: 2
A few things to note from users:
✅“Excellent product, lightweight ad powerful.”
✅“Very small and light, very easy to use.”
❌“Cannot deliver the power it should.”
❌“Despite 310Nm torque, it couldn’t get off lug nuts torqued at 200Nm.”
A word on Makita:
Makita, is the foremost manufacturer of power tools in the world. With 100 years’ experience, their products are lauded the world over for both their performance and quality. Key to Makita’s vision is their constant strive for innovation in their technology and their products.
5. Hikoki 18V Brushless Impact Wrench
Description:
Its brushless motor allows for increased run time and durability. The Hikokis high powered motor is not at the expense of useability as it boasts a compact and lightweight design. With its 4-mode (High Mode, Medum Mode, Low Mode and Single mode) speed selection it is ideal for professional mechanics, metalworking maintenance engineers and other jobs.
Features:
- 3 mode LED work light: always on/automatic/always off
- Battery level indicator
- Improved socket holder with friction ring and hole
- Forward and reverse switch
Specifications:
- No load speeds: 900rpm, 2,900rpm, 2,900rpm, 2,900rpm
- Impact rate: 0-3,600ipm
- Maximum torque: 305Nm
- Weight: 1.7kg
- Number of modes: 4
A few things to note from users:
✅“Good product in both performance and overall functionality”
✅“Super-premium impact wrench with neat power”
❌“Not as complete as would like for the price.”
Comparison Table:
| Milwaukee | DeWalt | Bosch | Makita | Hikoki | |
| No Load Speeds (rpm) | 550, 1,400, 1,750, 1,750 | 400, 1,200, 1,900 | 1,100, 2,300, 3,400 | 1,300, 2,400 | 900, 2,900, 2,900, 2,900 |
| Impact Rate (ipm) | 0-950, 0-1,750, 0-2,100, 0-2,100 | 0-2,400 | 0-2,300, 3,400, 4,000 | 0-2,000, 3,600 | 0-3,600 |
| Max. Torque (Nm) | 130, 400, 1356, 1356 | 135, 400, 950 | 200 | 310 | 305 |
| Weight (kg) | 3.3 | 3.3 | 1.2 | 1.2 | 1.7 |
| Number of Modes | 4 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 4 |
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