The best cordless screwdrivers have many advantages that allow the user to save energy as well as work faster and efficiently. In addition, the cordless screwdriver is portable and much easier on the hand and wrists. These and other benefits make it a very popular tool with professionals, enthusiasts, car owners, and homeowners.
Screwdrivers are popular tools that have been in use since the 1400s. The tool has evolved from the manual, pear-shaped handle to the modern powered screwdriver with a comfortable rubber handle.
Generally, the electric screwdrivers are either corded or cordless. The electrical or battery power eliminates the need to turn the screwdriver manually hence making it easier and less tiring to use. In particular, a cordless screwdriver uses a rechargeable battery, mostly Lithium-ion while a few models use the NiCad.
Typical features of a cordless screwdriver
- Shape: The two main types of cordless screwdrivers are the straight and pistol shapes. The straight style is suitable for most basic jobs. The pistol style is ideal for hard to reach areas and awkward angles.
- Grip: A comfortable grip on the handle makes it easy to hold and work with the screwdriver and avoid hand strain or fatigue. High-quality rubberized material lasts longer and is more comfortable to hold.
- Size: There are many different sizes for different tasks. Some are tiny, medium, and while others are large and heavy for bigger tasks.
- Adequate power: The best cordless screwdriver should address your needs while delivering the right amount of power. Some of the tools are lightweight and best suited for light jobs while the heavy-duty ones are suitable for jobs requiring high torque.
- Spindle lock: to lock the screwdriver into a manual mode
- Fixed and variable speed options
- LED light to illuminate the work areas
- Battery gauge to show the remaining charge.
Benefits of cordless screwdrivers
Cordless screwdrivers are portable
This is one of the main advantages of a cordless screwdriver. The tools are usually light and compact. Additionally, one does not have to worry about power issues or cumbersome power cords.
However, you need to make sure that you charge the battery and if need be, carry a spare fully charged battery.
Best cordless screwdrivers are flexible
The rechargeable screwdriver is not tied to a specific location and can be used anywhere as long as it is charged. In addition, the tool takes care of jobs where screws are in tight corners.
Safer for users
Since there are no power cables running around the floor or work area, the cordless screwdriver is one of the safest to both the user and the people around.
Cordless screwdrivers are efficient and fast
The cordless screwdriver is faster than the manual turning of screws and will save you time and allow you to work more efficiently.
Compact
The cordless screwdriver is very compact and fits in small spaces such as a bag or purse. This makes it convenient to carry them around and easy to use. Some of these have joints that allow them to bend and access tight corners or areas.
Versatile for different jobs
The cordless screwdriver performs a wide variety of jobs. It is suitable for woodwork, metal and plastic assemblies, repairs, and crafting.
Where to use cordless screwdrivers
The cordless screwdrivers provide a fast, easier, and convenient way of tightening and loosening screws. There is always the best cordless screwdriver for a particular task; some of the tools are suitable for specific professional or complex jobs while others are general purpose. Whether one is looking for a tool for professional repair jobs, woodworking, assembling furniture, electrical, or computer jobs, there is always the right tool for the task.
Selecting the best cordless screwdriver
There is a wide selection of rechargeable screwdrivers; each has its merits and pitfalls. The features available will determine the type of job that one is best suited for, what it can do and what it cannot do. Compare different models tools from reputable manufacturers and then choose a screwdriver that is user-friendly, powerful, durable, and has long battery life.
The six best cordless screwdrivers
DEWALT DW920K
Dewalt DW920K-2 is a two-position, ¼ inch cordless screwdriver with a handle that allows both pistol grip and straight grip operation. The DW920K has variable speeds up to a maximum of 500rpm, a forward/ reverse capability, and a fast-charging, long-lasting 7.2 Volts battery. The lightweight and maneuverable screwdriver use delivers 80 inch-pounds maximum torque and ideal for a variety of applications.
Bosch IXO III 3.6V Professional Cordless Screwdriver
The Bosch has a variable speed of between 0 and 180 rpm, weighs 0.3Kg, and has a screw diameter of 5mm. It has a long-lasting 3.6Volts Lithium-ion battery with a battery protection feature against overheating, overload, and total discharge. In addition, the screwdriver has a motor brake for precision work with several screws in a row.
The soft grip screwdriver has an LED for extra light, spindle lock, with both forward and reverse capability. In addition, the Bosch has both charge level and forward/reverse direction LED indicators.
HITACHI HPTDB3DL2M Hitachi DB3DL2 3.6-Volt 1 4-Inch Hex Drive Screwdriver
This is a two-position 1/4″ hex drive screwdriver that converts from pistol grip to straight grip. It has an adjustable clutch with 21-stage torque. The cordless screwdriver has an LED light to provide more light on work areas and uses two 3.6 volts 1.5Ah batteries.
General Tools & Instruments 500 Cordless Power Precision
The precision cordless screwdriver features a 100 plus rpm Super torque with both forward and reverses capabilities. It has six interchangeable bits and ideal for tiny screws, tight spaces, and micro assemblies. The ergonomic handle enables one to use various grip positions to accommodate different working situations. It uses AAA batteries which can last for eight hours
The precision screwdriver is ideal for on-the-go electronics, computers, and industrial technicians.
Black & Decker 9074CTN 3.6-Volt Cordless Screwdriver
The Black & Decker is a straight grip screwdriver with both powered and manual forward and reverse screw-driving capability. It uses four AA batteries to provide a total of 6 Volts power.
Black And Decker AD600 6 Volt Alkaline Battery 1/4 Hex Cordless Drill/Driver with Accessory Assortment
The drill/screwdriver has easily switched between forward and reverse directions. It has a spindle lock for greater control and ideal for everyday hobby and home projects.
The 6 volts cordless screwdriver, powered by four AA batteries has speeds of up to 130 rpm. It comes with two hex shank drill bits, two hex screwdriver bits, and a variety of anchors and screws.
Cordless screwdriver lithium battery
Lithium ions are the most commonly used batteries in the best cordless screwdrivers. They are popular because of their lightweight, high power density, and ability to hold their charge for longer periods of time compared to the Ni-Cad batteries.
Taking care of your best cordless screwdrivers
Taking good care of your best cordless screwdriver ensures that it performs well for a long time. Keep the battery charged all the time and never let it drain completely since this reduces battery life. In addition, ensure that water does not get inside the screwdriver. The water can damage the electronics as well as causing corrosion of the metal parts.