A screwdriver is an indispensable tool for carrying out repair, construction, finishing, and household work. With its help, you can quickly hang a shelf or a picture, disassemble and assemble furniture, drill holes, etc. If you do not yet own this device, then before going to the store it is important to familiarize yourself with information about what types of screwdrivers exist and what technical characteristics they have. This knowledge will help you choose the screwdriver that best suits your requirements.
Types of power tools
The same name “screwdriver” often refers to various devices. Although these tools are mutually similar, they have different functions. There are three main types of instruments:
- Screwdrivers;
- Impact wrenches;
- Drills - screwdrivers.
The latter type of power tool is often equipped with an impact function. Screwdrivers are also divided into those that operate on mains power and those that operate autonomously from batteries.
A screwdriver consists of almost the same elements. As a rule, these are a gearbox, a motor, a power regulator and a cartridge. The battery is only present in stand-alone models. The operating time without recharging depends on its power. The variety of screwdriver functions depends on the number of gearbox speeds. The presence of reverse will allow you to switch the engine, as a result the screwdriver will not only screw in screws, but also unscrew them.
To select the right tool, you need to know its functions, the nature of the intended work, and the expected load on the tool.
How to choose a device
To choose a screwdriver, you first need to familiarize yourself with what this type of tool is used for - for professional or domestic purposes, and what work can be performed with its help.
When purchasing, some rely on knowledge of the technical characteristics of the device, while others prefer to hear advice from the seller. Some people pay attention to a well-known brand and use advice from the World Wide Web. Personal experience, advice from professionals, and knowledge of the technical parameters of devices will help you choose a screwdriver that will become an indispensable assistant in housework.
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Screwdrivers
Electric screwdrivers are inferior to drills - a screwdriver in power. However, they have become widespread due to their distinctive qualities. They are small in size and lightweight, which allows them to work with such screwdrivers in places where using a more bulky tool is impossible. Due to their low weight, they do not cause rapid fatigue and are widely used by various craftsmen. Working in weight, for example, when installing suspended ceilings, is more convenient with just such a tool. If you need to work with fasteners for a long time, for example, when assembling furniture or household appliances, it is also better to prefer an electric screwdriver.
The body can be of two types - a regular “pistol” or straight, on a hinge. The hinged housing can be fully folded or unfolded at the desired angle. Both cases are compact, lightweight and easy to use. For unscrewing in the most difficult to reach places, there are screwdrivers with a pre-installed swivel connection between the head and the chuck. This makes it possible to easily carry out work in places where work with other tools is impossible.
The small size of such screwdrivers is achieved by using a battery. It is usually installed with low voltage, but the power is completely sufficient for domestic needs. On some models, the battery can be drilled into soft wood or plastic.
As a rule, all such screwdrivers are equipped with a bit chuck. The kit most often includes bits for different types of fasteners and small drills. The battery is not removable; the kit also includes a charger. The result is a lightweight tool that does not have high functionality, but is compact and easy to use.
Impact wrenches
This electric tool is perfect for those who frequently use a wrench. For example, car owners often have to deal with bolted connections that require a lot of effort to unscrew. The impact wrench will help you deal with any knot easily and quickly.
The impact wrench, in addition to rotational movement, transmits impulses to the working head. These impulses create small impacts on the nut. This helps to unscrew even nuts that have rusted over time without effort or damage.
The body of these instruments can be straight or “pistol” shaped. In this case, the handle can be removable. Straight impact wrenches are more suitable for working in hard-to-reach places.
The electric drive is more powerful than that of a screwdriver. The rotation speed is not high in most cases, but the torque is quite high. For small household tools it can reach up to 300 N*m, while for more powerful professional impact wrenches it can reach up to 1000 N*m.
Almost always there is an adapter for the heads on the spindle. Depending on the power, adapter sizes vary and it is necessary to either purchase a specific head size or an adapter. Some models have sockets for both square heads and polygonal bits.
Thus, the impact wrench handles its functions perfectly, but is not suitable for drilling and unscrewing screws. It will be an excellent addition to a screwdriver, being a wonderful assistant for a master working with bolted joints.
Drills - screwdrivers
This type of electric tool is the most versatile and popular device. It will help to cope with a large volume of various fasteners without much effort on the part of the worker. This tool is also perfect for drilling a variety of holes in almost any type of material.
The body is most often made in a “pistol” shape from plastic that is resistant to mechanical damage. Sometimes it is made in all-metal form. Inside there is an electric drive and a cooling system. The handle in many models is rubberized, which prevents the tool from slipping. The battery is attached to the handle. Some models place small batteries in the handle. Such batteries are compact in size without loss of power. There is also a start button on the handle. The same button controls the rotation speed.
The reverse is located on the body. A light finger force is enough to shift. There is also a button for switching the operating mode on the case. The chuck for clamping drills or bits comes in a variety of designs. Some devices may not have a chuck; in such cases, a slot for bits is provided.
All models have a torque limiter. The number of positions for limitation varies and can reach up to 20. In addition, there is always a drilling mode. It is used without torque limitation.
In addition, many models are equipped with LED backlighting. This is very convenient, since the work area may be closed from the light source and additional lighting is required.
Thanks to this design and versatility, drills and screwdrivers have become widespread. They can successfully replace a whole range of hand tools.
Standalone or networked tool?
Autonomous power tools are more mobile and are ideal for working outdoors or outside the power grid. It is also more suitable for car repairs, since the wire will not interfere.
For some interior work, for example, when working on a ceiling, it is necessary to keep the tool suspended for a long time. For these types of jobs, a corded screwdriver is more suitable. Due to the absence of a battery, it is lighter in weight and your hand will not get tired.
The weight of the battery in a screwdriver plays a key role. If you plan to work in close proximity to electricity, for example, in an apartment, then you should prefer the network option. It is lighter and does not depend on the charge level. If there is no access to the electrical network during operation, a cordless screwdriver is required. When choosing such a tool, you should pay more attention to the battery.
Batteries for screwdrivers are of the following types:
- Nickel – cadmium;
- Nickel – metal hydride;
- Lithium – ion;
- Lithium is an ion polymer type.
- At the same time, a nickel-cadmium battery can withstand large temperature changes without losing its properties. Its shelf life is about 20 years. However, it is quite large and heavy, requires complete discharge before charging again, and cannot be disposed of as normal household waste. All this limits the use of batteries of this type.
- Nickel metal hydride batteries are the next step in battery development. They are environmentally friendly and can therefore be disposed of normally. Such batteries are more powerful and capacious than their predecessors, and are also significantly smaller in size. However, loss of charge, inability to operate at low temperatures, fragility at a fairly high price negatively affect the quality of these batteries. Not very common at the moment.
- Lithium-ion batteries are lightweight, high-capacity, and do not require full discharge. These qualities have made them more popular.
- Lithium-ion polymer batteries - improved lithium-ion batteries. They are absolutely safe, the memory effect is completely eliminated, so you can charge even when the battery is slightly discharged. However, it still needs to be completely discharged occasionally to avoid thresholds being set. However, they are not very durable batteries. There is an aging effect; even if the tool is not used, the amount of resources decreases over time.
The main parameters of batteries are capacity and voltage. The larger the battery capacity, the longer the device will work autonomously. The higher the voltage level, the more powerful and productive the tool will be. The lower the voltage, the softer the material for drilling should be, the thinner the holes and fasteners. The best voltage for a home screwdriver is 12 V; they have the best ratio of price, autonomy and power.
When choosing a battery, you need to consult whether it is possible to purchase additional batteries over time. Most often, a battery can only be purchased at the same time as the tool, which subsequently leads to additional costs.
Sometimes it is not possible to decide which tool to prefer - battery-powered or mains-powered. In this case, you should prefer a combined model. This screwdriver will work both from the mains and from the battery.
The formula for the ideal screwdriver
As practice shows, it is better to purchase a drill-driver. This device allows you to perform a wider range of work - not only screwing screws, but also drilling holes. Choose a more powerful model and its functionality will expand. However, screwdrivers that are too powerful for home use may be unnecessary. The most powerful are corded screwdrivers, but cordless ones are more mobile. Here, see what is more important to you. If you decide to buy a cordless screwdriver, give preference to a lithium-ion battery. This battery will serve you for a long time and will not require special care. It is better if your screwdriver is backlit, has an additional battery and a comfortable handle.
Make your choice at: here you will find a huge selection of modern screwdrivers.
Pneumatic screwdrivers
This type of screwdriver is powered by compressed air. It differs from electric tools in its strength, durability and low price. Ease of maintenance and the absence of complex elements make this type of screwdriver light and reliable. In addition, it does not heat up and does not spark even during long-term continuous use. Thanks to these qualities, it can be safely used in conditions of increased fire hazard.
One of the disadvantages of such a tool is its dependence on a compressor. However, for intermittent use or for outdoor work, it can be replaced with compressed air cylinders. The noise from the compressor can be reduced by placing it at a distance and using air ducts. At the same time, several tools can operate simultaneously from one compressor, which is a plus for auto repair shops and other businesses.
Thanks to the durable alloys of the body and the minimum number of parts, the screwdriver is lightweight, durable, compact, and does not have motor overheating. Even if a pneumatic tool breaks, easy, quick and inexpensive repairs will extend its life.
Another special quality is its safety. But it is not only explosion-proof and fireproof, it can be used in the rain and, if necessary, under water. It is impossible to use power tools for such purposes.
Review of the best manufacturers
Undoubtedly, the choice of a screwdriver should be based on many criteria, the main one of which can be considered a manufacturing company that has its own service centers in your region of residence. We list the best screwdriver manufacturers for 2022, which you can trust without a doubt.
- The Makita company is a leader in the production of various types of power tools. The company's products are distinguished by the highest quality and reliability. Therefore, if you want to purchase a good instrument, then by choosing a device from this manufacturer, you will make a successful purchase.
- Bosch, like Makita, occupies a leading position in the production of power tools. If you have a question about which brand of device is better to buy, Makita or Bosch, then it is difficult to answer this question. Both manufacturers produce both household and professional high-quality screwdrivers. Either way, you won't be disappointed.
- AEG brand power tools cannot be called cheap, although their quality justifies the investment.
- Tools produced under the DeWALT brand have always been distinguished by innovative developments. Therefore, if you want to purchase equipment with the latest developments introduced, we choose DeWALT screwdrivers.
- The Metabo company equips its products with electronics, for example, regulating the amount of torque. But the traditional power tools of this brand are also of the highest quality.
- Tool manufacturers “Hitachi”, “Sparky”, “Skil” produce products that are in good demand and have affordable prices.
- Domestic manufacturers Interskol, Kalibr and Zubr have also proven themselves well in the power tool market. Although they are slightly inferior to foreign brands in some positions, the quality and reliability of the products attracts domestic buyers. Moreover, the prices for the tools are low, and service is available in almost all regions.
Based on the above, you can understand that buying devices of unknown origin and unknown brands, to put it mildly, is not recommended. Of course, such a device can work for quite a long time in everyday conditions, but if it breaks down, you will not be able to return it for service.
Screwdriver motor
When choosing an electrical device, you need to pay special attention to the motor. For the most part, the durability of an electric screwdriver depends on it.
The brush commutator installed in the engine is a time-tested and completely reliable part. However, high friction force leads to rapid overheating of the engine. In conditions of high humidity, such a drive may spark. Therefore, it is better to prefer a brushless model. These motors do not overheat quickly, so the drive operates several times longer. Such engines increase the price, but it pays off fairly quickly.
Some models do not have a motor housing. All its parts are located directly in the screwdriver body. Thanks to this, the weight of the tool is significantly lighter, making work much easier and more comfortable.
It is imperative to clarify the material from which the gearbox is made. Plastic parts, although of high quality, have a much smaller margin of safety than those made of metal. Thus, the metal gears of the gearbox will last much longer than the plastic gears.
Maximum torque is an equally important detail. The more difficult the task for a screwdriver, the higher the number should be. Thus, to work with small screws, 10 N*m is enough, but if you need to drill metal or solid wood, you need at least 36 N*m.
Chuck and spindle
Thanks to the chuck, you can easily replace the bit or drill. They come in single-coupling and double-coupling types. The single-coupling chuck is somewhat more convenient; changing can be done with one hand. But this requires an automatic or forced spindle locking function.
It is also necessary to find out whether there is a forced braking function. If this function is available, the spindle immediately stops rotating when the screwdriver is turned off. This feature is now available on almost all models. Without it, it becomes less convenient to work.
Jaw chucks require a key to change the bit or drill. Although this is not very convenient and requires more effort and time, some workers prefer to use them. Such chucks are necessary when drilling with applied force. In this case, the clutch tightening force may not be sufficient.
For simple types of work, a screwdriver not equipped with a chuck is sufficient. These models include an adapter for bits and drills.
Design
According to the principle of power supply, power tools can be battery-powered or mains-powered, operating at a voltage of 220 V. Despite these differences, the tools are similar in appearance and internal structure. They consist of the following parts:
- Plastic or metal case.
- Clamping chuck for various attachments.
- On/off buttons
- A reverse switch that allows you to adjust the screwing in and unscrewing of fasteners.
- Speed controller that controls engine speed.
- Power-on locks.
- Tightening force adjustment switch.
Inside the housing there is an electric motor with a board and capacitor, a coupling and a gearbox.
Additional functions
Like any type of equipment, electric screwdrivers are not limited to one standard model. Depending on the intended use, additional functions may be required.
One of these functions may be the presence of impact force. Thanks to it, it is possible to drill holes in some materials. You can usually switch the mode to the shock type using a special key. This screwdriver can easily handle brick or light concrete. However, when drilling reinforced concrete, for example, a wall, you should not use it.
The pulse mode, like a wrench, will help you mark the beginning of the drill and easily deal with old connections, for example, those covered with rust. It is often turned on with a separate button.
The presence of LED backlight will bring additional comfort when working. However, its best location is not under the cartridge, but in the lower part of the handle. In this case, the work area is illuminated evenly without shading.
Weight and compactness are not the last aspects when choosing a tool. In this case, no matter how heavy the device is chosen, it is necessary to check the center of gravity. Shifting the center of gravity in any direction can lead to rapid hand fatigue.
It is also worth checking the completeness. A charger, an additional battery, a belt, a set of bits and drills, and an additional flashlight can be included in the kit. The composition is indicated on the packaging. In this case, attention must be paid to the bits. Those included in the package may not meet quality or other requirements. In this case, you need to purchase the necessary bits.
Which one should I buy?
To make it easier for the reader to choose a screwdriver, we have compiled a rating of five inexpensive models of cordless screwdrivers available for purchase in Russian stores or for ordering online.
YIKODA
This is a Chinese screwdriver that can be ordered on the popular AliExpress trading platform. The characteristics of the model leave much to be desired.
- The rotation speed is only 1,350 rpm, which makes it unsuitable for use as a drill.
- The battery capacity is enough for no more than three hours of operation.
- Weak charger that extends battery charging for several hours.
The device has two advantages:
- Low price - YIKODA costs about 1,500 rubles (at this price it is simply impossible to buy a screwdriver in Russian retail).
- Light weight - YIKODA weighs only 1 kilogram.
Impact drilling is not provided in YIKODA.
We recommend ordering YIKODA only if you can’t afford a more expensive tool. In other cases, it is better to pay attention to higher quality models, at least from domestic manufacturers.
VORTEX DA-18L-2K 2018
You shouldn’t be fooled by the name - this is another “Chinese”, only made specifically for the Russian market. Unlike YIKODA, it can be found on the shelves of Russian stores. It costs approximately 3,000 - 3,500 rubles.
Here are the characteristics of the tool:
- Power 260 W.
- Rotation speed 1,350 rpm.
- Battery capacity 2 Ah.
- Weight 1.3 kg.
Quite standard for a budget screwdriver. Impact drilling is not provided in Vikhr.
We do not recommend purchasing Whirlwind tools because they have a short service life. After one and a half to two years, the bit mount or battery contacts fail. Spare parts for the equipment cannot be found, making repairs impossible. Essentially, because of this, Vikhr screwdrivers are disposable.
Interskol DA-18ER
This is a domestic screwdriver. It costs a little more than Chinese products - from 4,000 to 5,000 rubles.
At the same time, the characteristics are almost the same as those of the Whirlwind:
- Power 280 W.
- Rotation speed 1,400 rpm.
- Battery capacity 1.5 Ah.
- Weight 1.1 kg.
However, unlike the “Chinese”, the tool from Interskol is highly reliable and can last for several years. In addition, you can find spare parts for it, which makes repairs possible in case of breakdown. Therefore, it is better to overpay 1,000 rubles and purchase an Interskolov screwdriver. There is no hammer drilling capability in this model.
DeWALT DCD771D2
American tool brand. Although production is located in China, the quality of the products is an order of magnitude higher than that of purebred “Chinese” ones. It is also quite possible to find spare parts in case of breakdown. The DeWALT DCD771D2 model costs in Russian retail from 8,000 to 9,000 rubles.
Here's what they offer the buyer for this money:
- Power 300 W.
- Rotation speed 1,500 rpm.
- Battery capacity 2.0 Ah.
- Weight 1.6 kg.
Not very outstanding performance for such a price, considering that the model does not provide impact drilling. But the tool is distinguished by high reliability and long service life. If you don't mind spending money on a screwdriver that will last for years, DeWALT is your choice.
Bosch GSB 180-Li 0.601.9F8.320
Excellent cordless screwdriver. It costs about the same as DeWALT, around 9,000 rubles.
However, the characteristics of this tool are much better:
- Power 350 W.
- Rotation speed 1,700 rpm.
- Battery capacity 1.5 Ah.
- Weight 1.6 kg.
In addition, the Bosch GSB 180-Li 0.601.9F8.320 has a hammer function with a speed of 27,000 strokes per minute, which allows you to drill into hard materials. However, it should be remembered that when the bump stop is turned on, the battery will run out much faster. The screwdriver also has LED illumination of the work area.
Bosch GSB 180-Li 0.601.9F8.320 is characterized by stable operation, high reliability, long service life and maintainability. The instrument can serve its owner for several years.
Features of some brands
To get a more accurate picture of what a particular manufacturer can offer, let’s look at some of the characteristic features of specific brands. Some brands worth paying attention to:
- Makita - a variety of models for all tastes, from the most inexpensive to professional models. They have quality and durability.
- Bosch - from household to professional quality models.
- AEG are expensive, but completely worth the price.
- DeWALT is innovative.
- Metabo - there are many microelectronics that correct various processes.
- Hitachi – quality and optimal price.
