In a Hurry? Our Top 3 Best Impact Wrench!
Table of Contents
Loosening or tightening the frozen bolts manually can be troublesome, especially in big projects. Here comes the impact wrench handy for any tradesman. It is easy to handle bolts no matter how rusty or old with the impact wrench.
The impact wrench is perfect for home projects and construction. You can securely and easily fasten lag bolts into a post and beam. As with various power tools, there are corded, cordless, and air-powered models of impact wrenches. Most Hobbyists and DIYers prefer cordless models as they are convenient and simple to use. However, corded modes are more powerful than cordless ones. Besides, the pneumatic impact wrench is suitable for auto shops.
There are various factors to consider when selecting an impact wrench, like torque, speed, impacts per minute, etc. Here making your task easy, we have selected the Best Impact Wrench based on these crucial factors.
Top 10 Impact Wrenches
| Model | Power | Torque (ft-lbs) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ingersoll Rand 2235TiMAX | Air compressor | 1350 | View on Amazon |
| Dewalt DCF899M1 | Cordless | 700 | View on Amazon |
| Milwaukee M18 FUEL | Cordless | 1400 | View on Amazon |
| Porter-Cable PCE211 | Corded | 450 | View on Amazon |
| Dewalt 20V MAX | Cordless | 130 | View on Amazon |
| Ryobi P1833 | Cordless | 300 | View on Amazon |
| Porter-Cable PCC740LA | Cordless | 260 | View on Amazon |
| Bosch Freak | Cordless | 150 | View on Amazon |
| Chicago Pneumatic CP7732 | Air compressor | 450 | View on Amazon |
| Dewalt Xtreme | Cordless | 125 | View on Amazon |
Which are the 10 Best Impact Wrenches In 2021?
1. Ingersoll Rand 2235TiMAX 1/2″ Drive Air Impact Wrench
| Ingersoll Rand 2235TiMAX Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Air compressor |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Torque | 1350 ft-lbs |
| Speed | 8500 RPM |
| Max. Impacts per Minute | 1200 IPM |
If you are searching for a high-performance tool that is lightweight and can do big tasks easily. It weighs 5.9 pounds that means you can use it for extended periods of time. Besides, it can deliver a great amount of power that goes for up to 1350 foot-pounds of nut-busting torque and 930 foot-pounds of reverse torque.
When it comes to build quality, it boasts composite housing and steel wear plate. Also, it comes with a heavy-duty titanium hammer case that is not only lightweight but also easily outlive the rest of your tools. Best of all, it is one of the quietest impact wrenches. It has a 4-position power regulator that allows you to fine-tune the power according to your needs. Further, it is easy to switch forward/reverse systems with just one hand.
Reasons To Buy
- Rugged construction for a long lifespan.
- Lightweight and compact.
- Provides powerful performance.
- Superior controls.
- Composite housing and hammer case.
- Twin hammer mechanism.
Reasons To Avoid
- Requires air compressor of use.
What’s the bottom line?
Ingersoll Rand impact wrench has a well-built drive system to put out serious spin ability with 1350 ft-lbs. Along with this, it comes with a two years warranty that makes it a worthy investment.
2. Dewalt 20V Max XR DCF899M1 Impact Wrench Kit
| Dewalt 20V Max XR Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Power Source | 20-volt battery |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Torque | 700 ft-lbs |
| Speed | 1900 RPM |
| Max. IPM | 2400 |
The Dewalt Max XR can handle easy or tough jobs with a brushless motor that boasts 700 ft-lbs of torque and 1900 RPMs. It has all the high-end features that you would want in your wrench kit. This best cordless impact wrench features 700 ft-lbs fastening torque, 1200 ft-lbs nut-busting force and 2,400 impacts per minute. Along with this, variable speed selection options allow you to choose the right amount of torque for the task.
It measures 8-13/16 inches and weighs 7.2 pounds. This Dewalt impact wrench is durable and powerful as it is rated to withstand up to a 6-foot drop. Its hop-ring anvil keeps sockets tightly attached. There is an LED work light to illuminate your workspace, so you can operate even in low visibility spaces and environments.
Reasons To Buy
- Brushless motor
- Light in weight and compact
- Powerful performance
- Long battery life
- Variable speed trigger with increased control
Reasons To Avoid
- Bit expensive.
What’s the bottom line?
Dewalt Max XR is a powerful, small and lightweight power tool. All in all, this versatile wrench comes with a complete kit, including a battery, charger and contractor bag.
3. Milwaukee 2767-20 M18 FUEL 1/2-Inch High-Torque Impact Wrench
| Milwaukee M18 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Power Source | 18 Volt battery |
| Torque | 1400 ft-lbs |
| Drive Size | ½-in. |
| Speed | 1750 RPM |
| Max IPM | 2100 |
From removing frozen lug nuts on vehicles to assembling patio furniture, this impact wrench can handle all jobs. This cordless tool has a four-mode drive control with bolt removal. This makes it a stellar choice for serious DIYers. It comes with an L-shaped rubber mold that provides a comfortable grip while making lengthy jobs easy.
This tool is 8 inches in length and features a bright light that covers a wide swath of the work area. The Redlink Plus technology prevents the tool from overloading or overheating and damaging other moving parts. With 1000 foot-pounds of fastening and 1400 ft-lbs of nut-busting force, it is one of the powerful wrenches.
Reasons To Buy
- Durable, sturdy construction.
- Compact cordless wrench.
- 4-mode drive control.
- Durable battery for heavy-duty use.
Reasons To Avoid
- A bit heavy to handle.
What’s the bottom line?
This Milwaukee M18 wrench has enough power to handle almost any job around the house, yard, or garage. Overall, its power and versatility make the investment worthwhile for DIYers.
4. Porter-Cable PCE211 7.5-Amp 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
| Porter-Cable PCE211 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Corded |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Drive Size | ½-in. |
| Torque | 450 ft-lbs |
| Speed | 2200 RPM |
| Max IPM | 2700 |
Porter Cable brings us a powerful line of tools at an affordable price. This best impact wrench is designed to satisfy a wide range of workers, from DIY homeowners and backyard mechanics to pro contractors. It has 450 ft-lb of torque with 2200 RPM, so you’re not sacrificing anything with this impact wrench.
It comes with a 1/2″ hog ring that allows you to switch sockets without any hassle. Further, you can work without unbearable noise and vibration as it is easier going than other impact wrenches. Another great perk is, you can stop processing the nuts instantly. Besides, the switch is effective and makes work easier. You can loosen or tighten and stop the action with a single click. This electric impact wrench comes with a three years warranty.
Reasons To Buy
- Easy to use with one hand.
- Powerful performance.
- Suitable for removing lug nuts and bolts.
- Long battery life.
- Forward/reverse rocker switch.
Reasons To Avoid
- Less versatility.
What’s the bottom line?
The Porter Carter PCE211 with less vibration, heavy-duty motor, and high-speed generation is the best choice for you. Overall, it is available at a reasonable price and has more than enough power and torque for most DIY projects.
5. Dewalt 20V MAX DCF880HM2 Impact Wrench Kit
| Dewalt 20V MAX Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Power Source | 20 volt |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Drive Size | ½-in. |
| Torque | 130 ft-lbs |
| Speed | 2300 RPM |
| Max IPM | 2700 IPM |
Dewalt 20-Volt Max Lithium-Ion cordless wrench kit provides max torque without the inconvenience of a long cord. It has 130-foot pounds of torque and 2700 IPM that fasteners in even hardwood, metal, and masonry. Also, it is easy to use in congested spaces and easily cuts through oxidized lug nuts or rusted bolts.
Furthermore, the kit consists of 20-volt lithium-ion batteries with an in-built feel gauge. Thus you can go longer and faster even on difficult jobs that put you in a tight space. To brighten the dark workspace, it comes with three front-facing LED lights. With this best cordless impact wrench, you can rotate your car’s tires, install new brakes and maintain lawn equipment.
Reasons To Buy
- Three lights with delay timer.
- Three-year limited warranty.
- Extra capacity XR lithium-ion batteries.
- Lightweight and compact.
- Easy socket change with 1/2 inch hog ring anvil.
Reasons To Avoid
- Lower torque than its competitors
- Not designed for heavy-duty tasks
What’s the bottom line?
DeWalt DCF880HM2 is easy to use in small spaces and can handle rusted bolts and lug nuts easily. It is loaded with powerful features that can help you tackle the toughest needs in your task.
6. Ryobi P1833 3-Speed 1/2-Inch Cordless Impact Wrench Kit
| Ryobi P1833 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Power Source | 18-Volt |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Drive Size | ½-in. |
| Torque | 300 ft-lbs |
| Speed | 2900 RPM |
| Max IPM | 3200 IPM |
Ryobi P1833 cordless impact wrench has an ergonomic design and great engineering. It features a half-inch chuck that is suitable for most applications. Also, the three variable speeds offer optimal user control for a wide range of jobs. The anvil has a detent pin, so once a socket is on, it is secure.
There are three front-mounted lights that illuminate the area. When it comes to battery backup, it provides plenty of power for regular use without constant recharging. The P1883 impact wrench needs no maintenance. For good battery life, store them 50% charged away from moisture and at a low temperature than 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Reasons To Buy
- Powerful torque and 3200 impacts per minute
- Over mold grip zone enhances comfort and dampen vibration
- LED to illuminate workspace
- Lightweight design for easy handling
Reasons To Avoid
- Brushed motor is louder and less durable than brushless models.
What’s the bottom line?
If you are looking for an impact wrench for regular home use, this 3-speed P1833 is a perfect choice for you. It is lightweight and comfortable to handle with a long-lasting battery.
7. Porter-Cable PCC740LA 20V MAX Impact Wrench
| Porter-Cable PCC740LA Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Power Source | 20-Volt |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Drive Size | ½-in. |
| Torque | 260 ft-lbs |
| Speed | 1650 RPM |
| Max IPM | 2500 IPM |
Porter Cable PCC740LA offers excellent design, durability, and performance. It has an anvil size of half an inch with a friction ring to facilitate socket change. Further, the machine is able to make 2500 impacts per minute to drive things down faster. With 330 ft-lbs torque, it is easy to do a general task around the house or auto shop.
This bare tool weighs 6.6 lbs, while with the battery, it takes up to 6 pounds. Apart from this, the driver is designed with chemical-resistant housing for automatic friendly settings. It uses overmold grips for user comfort. The complete kit includes a battery and charger. Also, the machine doesn’t require much maintenance – clean it up after use and don’t overcharge the battery.
Reasons To Buy
- Three years limited warranty.
- Auto LED light.
- Variable speed trigger.
- Easy socket change.
- Great battery backup and performance.
Reasons To Avoid
- The price is a bit high for an entry-level kit.
What’s the bottom line?
The Porter-Cable impact wrench has everything one would expect from a cordless impact wrench, including good ergonomics, powerful torque, long-lasting batteries, and speed. However, it lacks speed control for better finesse.
8. Bosch Freak GDX18V-1800B12 Cordless Impact Driver/Wrench
| Bosch Freak Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Power Source | 18-Volt |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Drive Size | ½-in. |
| Torque | 150 ft-lbs |
| Speed | 3400 RPM |
| Max IPM | 4200 IPM |
The Bosch Freak works as both a driver and a wrench that makes it quite an effective power tool. It uses 1/4 inch hex screwdriver bits and 1/2 inch impact sockets. The tools switch between screwdriver and nut driver bits quickly, so you won’t have to search for an adapter for complicated jobs that need different tools.
It features a brushless motor that delivers 15 ft-lbs of maximum torque and 4200 impact per minute for professional power and impact. The package consists of a charger, battery, soft case, and belt clip to keep it near at hand.
Reasons To Buy
- Two tools in one.
- More torque and light load speed.
- Small head length and lightweight.
- Quiet under load.
- Brushless motor.
- Socket ready hybrid hex/square drive.
Reasons To Avoid
- It isn’t suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
What’s the bottom line?
The Bosch Freak combines an impact driver and an impact wrench for double utility. Overall, it is a better all-around hybrid tool for screwdriving and socket.
9. Chicago Pneumatic CP7732 ½-inch Stubby Impact Wrench
| Chicago Pneumatic CP7732 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Air compressor |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Drive Size | ½-in. |
| Torque | 450 ft-lbs |
| Speed | 9000 RPM |
| Max IPM | 1400 IPM |
This Chicago Pneumatic CP7732 impact wrench is an excellent power tool. It features a stubby shape that can easily maneuver in tight spaces. Along with this, it packs great power with 450 ft-lb of torque and up to 9000 rpm. This is useful in pulling out stubborn stripped screws or oxidized bolts. It has a one-hand operation trigger with three-position settings, including forward and reverse.
It is one of the best tools for operating on transmissions or other deep-in-the-engine car parts. Apart from this, it is suitable for left-handed and right-handed people. For working, this impact wrench requires an air compressor that can provide at least 5 cfm at 90 psi for power.
Reasons To Buy
- Ultra-Compact size.
- Power-packed performance.
- One-hand operation trigger.
- Three setting positions.
Reasons To Avoid
- Requires air compressor for use.
What’s the bottom line?
This Chicago Pneumatic Wrench is easily maneuverable in confined spaces. All in all, it packs a powerful punch and is easy to handle even if you are a newbie.
10. Dewalt Xtreme 12V MAX Impact Wrench
| Dewalt Xtreme Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Power Source | 12-V |
| Motor | Brushless |
| Drive Size | 3/8-in. |
| Torque | 125 ft-lbs |
| Speed | – |
| Max IPM | – |
The Dewalt Xtreme 12V Max is specially built for smaller jobs as it is a compact tool and can get into tight spaces. It is a bit shorter than other cordless impact wrenches. Further, the wrench is equipped with three lights for illuminating a workspace. The impact wrench offers 125 ft-lbs torque that is suitable for smaller jobs.
It comes with a 3/8″ square drive instead of a 1/4 inch hex collet. This 12V brushless wrench is a perfect option for light-duty automotive use and driving hex head fasteners. Further, it includes Precision Wrenchtrade. It helps to give you a moment to avoid overtightening.
Reasons To Buy
- Light and compact design.
- LED light for brightening onto a work surface.
- Three modes settings.
- Brushless motor for better runtime.
What’s the bottom line?
It is a high performer impact wrench in this price range. All in all, it is the best fit for light-duty automotive use and driving hex head fasteners.
How To Choose The Best Impact Wrench?
Finding the topmost impact wrench from numerous options on the market can be a little difficult. So let’s continue this search, and from the options given above, you get to know how to find a suitable choice for you.
Air Impact Wrenches
This type of wrench provides high RPM, torque and IPM as compared to cordless models. It is used for heavy-duty applications and projects and doesn’t have a limit on its working potential. Thus you can use the impact wrench continuously without worrying about the battery.
Cordless Impact Wrench
Cordless wrenches are powered by a lithium-ion rechargeable battery. It is a commonly used type as it is portable and convenient. As compared to air wrenches, these models are less powerful. However, they are long-lasting and effective dues to brushless motors.
Shapes and Socket Size
These impact wrenches come in two styles that is inline and pistol grip. The inline impact wrench is like a large screwdriver that features a grip behind the hammer and anvil. On the other hand, the pistol-shaped wrench is like a handgun, and the grip rests under the motor. Inline wrenches are perfect for jobs where you’re working in tight spaces. And if you plan to work on machinery, then an inline impact wrench is a must-have power tool.
The pistol impact wrench is bulky, and the grip style is ergonomic that prevents strain on your hands. This allows you to work for a long period without fatigue. Also, the side handle lets you use your weight for greater leverage. Apart from this, the cordless impact wrench boasts a selection of socket sizes that are specially designed to fit bolts and nuts of various sizes.
| Socket Size | Impact Wrench Shape |
|---|---|
| 1/4-inch | Both inline and pistol |
| 3/8-inch | Mostly pistol, but also works with a specialized inline style |
| 1/2-inch | Pistol |
| 3/4-inch | Pistol |
| 1-inch | Pistol and a T-shaped inline |
Motor
Cordless impact wrenches feature brushless motors, whereas air wrenches come with brushed models. These brushed motors are powerful but less effective when compared to brushless units. Therefore selecting the right motor depends on the requirements of your projects.
Comfort
An impact wrench with ergonomic handle grips and anti-vibration measures help to reduce work-related strain. Further, you should pick an impact wrench with the right amount necessary to perform the job properly. A smaller motor tends to have fewer vibrations that in turn lessens the physical strain.
Torque
If you are selecting a cordless wrench, then look for maximum torque that is capable of creating. Generally, impact wrenches feature multiple torque setting that makes it versatile than those with one torque setting. Low torque lets your battery work longer and prevents overtightening. At the same time, the high torque makes it easy to remove bolts and tighten screws. For bigger projects, you need more torque and for medium-sized tasks, select a wrench with a minimum of 200 foot-pounds of torque.
Speed and Drive
It is another important factor to consider when searching for an impact wrench. The drive comes in three sizes: 1/4, 3/8, and 1/2 inches. The bigger the drive is, the higher the torque. The speed is the number of rotations of a hammer to fasten bolts and tighten screws. The more are rotations, and the less effort the user has to apply.
Battery Type
If you are selecting a cordless tool, then check out its battery type. Prefer a Lithium-ion battery as it gives out a steadier rate and holds more charge. While inspecting the batter, keep two metrics in mind – voltage (amount of power the battery can deliver) and Amp-hours (amount of time the battery can hold the charge).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s a bigger 3/8 or 1/2 impact wrench?
The 3/8 driver is smaller and lighter than the 1/2 driver that allows one to manoeuvre it better. The smaller one is better for working in tight spots and delicate work.
2. Will a 3/8 inch impact wrench remove lug nuts?
You can remove your car’s lug nuts using an impact wrench, provided the nuts are tightened at the appropriate amount of torque, and your wrench torque is higher than 100 ft-lbs.
3. What size air compressor do you need with an impact wrench?
If you have an air-powered or pneumatic wrench, you need an air compressor to use it. These Pneumatic wrenches are useful for work on automobiles as they are lightweight and cost less than battery-powered impact wrenches. For a smaller impact wrench with 1/4″ drive, an air compressor with 1 to 2 cfm airflow at 90 psi is enough, and with a 3/8 inch drive, 3 to 3.5 cfm airflow is sufficient.
