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Electric screwdrivers are a convenient upgrade from manual tools, helping you tackle repairs, installations, and DIY projects with less effort. Whether you’re assembling furniture or working on a project for your home, the right model can save time and energy. In this guide, we discuss the best electric screwdrivers based on our research to help you find the right choice for your needs.
Top 5 Electric Screwdrivers
- Best Electric Screwdriver Overall: Bosch 2-Speed Pocket Driver Kit
- Best Head Storage: SKIL Rechargeable Cordless Screwdriver
- Best Screwdriver Handle: Black+Decker Cordless Screwdriver
- Best Carrying Case: Metabo Cordless Screwdriver Kit
- Best for Precision Work: Wowstick Lithium Precision Screwdriver
Compare Top Electric Screwdrivers
| Best Electric Screwdrivers | Maximum Speed | Weight | Torque | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch 2-Speed Pocket Driver Kit | 1300 RPM | 1.4 pounds | 265 inch pounds | 1-year limited |
| SKIL Rechargeable Cordless Screwdriver | 230 RPM | 7.8 ounces | Not listed | 5-year limited |
| BLACK+DECKER Cordless Screwdriver | 180 RPM | 1 pound | 40 inch pounds | 2 years |
| Metabo Cordless Screwdriver Kit | 780 RPM | 0.9 pounds | 44 inch pounds | Tool: Lifetime, Battery: 2 years |
| Wowstick Lithium Precision Screwdriver | 200 RPM | 1.83 pounds | 26.5 inch pounds | Not listed |
| Best Electric Screwdrivers | Maximum Speed | Weight | Torque | Warranty |
Best Electric Screwdriver Overall
Bosch 2-Speed Pocket Driver Kit
- $100.61
- $119
- 15% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Has a compact size with a 5.6-inch head making it ideal for tight corners and small working spaces
✔ Has two variable speeds that reach between 0-350 RPM and 0-1300 RPM
✔ Comes with two batteries, a charger, two ½-inch driver bits, and a carrying bag
✘ Can be pricier than some other electric screwdrivers
✘ Some customers had issues with the LED light not being bright enough
What Customers Are Saying
According to our research, customers who gave this product positive reviews on Amazon were impressed by its robust but lightweight design. Others liked its long-lasting battery and its included extra batteries.
However, our team found that some customers who left more mixed reviews were disappointed that this product did not come with a belt clip. Others had issues with the LED light, saying it wasn’t bright enough or didn’t work correctly.
Best Head Storage
Skil Rechargeable Cordless Screwdriver
- $29.97
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Features a dual LED light
✔ Features circuit-sensor technology that detects electrical currents and switches
✔ Has a bonus bit holder to store heads
✘ Lacks variable speed capabilities
✘ Less powerful than some other electric screwdrivers
What Customers Are Saying
We learned that customers who gave this electric screwdriver positive reviews on Amazon liked that it was well-balanced, lightweight, and easy to hold and grip. Others also liked that it had a long-lasting battery.
However, others felt it lacked torque and was not powerful enough for heavy-duty projects or drilling into thick materials like wood. We also learned that some were disappointed by the switch, noting that it was not ergonomically positioned, making it difficult to hold the driver and twist the switch simultaneously.
Best Screwdriver Handle
Black+Decker Cordless Screwdriver
- $39
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Features an ergonomic, lightweight design that’s easy to hold
✔ Has a lithium-ion battery that can hold a charge for up to 18 months
✔ Comes with a switch that lets you choose between forward and reverse movements
✘ Has limited torque that may not be ideal for wood
✘ Some customers felt the switch was not well positioned
What Customers Are Saying
Per our team’s verified-buyer evaluation, this electric screwdriver earned numerous positive reviews on Amazon for its long battery life and compact design that was easy to carry. Others also liked that this screwdriver had an adjustable handle.
However, we also found that some customers felt the switch on this electric screwdriver was difficult to use due to its placement on the top of the screwdriver. Others were also disappointed it did not have a charge indicator light to show when it was fully charged.
Best Carrying Case
Metabo Cordless Screwdriver Kit
- $79
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Features 21 clutch settings, which give you maximum flexibility over the amount of torque applied
✔ Has an LED light that makes it easier to see your workspace
✔ Has a dual-position handle and a forward/reverse switch
✘ Handle may be uncomfortable and difficult to hold
✘ Some customers had issues with the battery and charger
What Customers Are Saying
Our research revealed that this product earned several positive Amazon reviews for its ergonomic, lightweight design that was easy to maneuver. Others also liked that it was made with durable materials that could withstand wear and tear.
On the other hand, other customers said this electric screwdriver’s battery charger malfunctioned after minimal use. We also learned that some had issues with the device not charging. Other customers also complained that the drill bits on this screwdriver fell off too easily.
Best Electric Screwdriver for Precision Work
Wowstick Lithium Precision Screwdriver
- $49.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Comes with 56 bits in popular shapes such as Phillips, square, triangle, and U-type
✔ Comes with a stand, storage box, magnetic mat, and other accessories
✔ Includes a USB charging port
✘ Does not feature variable speed control
✘ Has a low torque level
What Customers Are Saying
According to our consumer-side research, several customers loved that this electric screwdriver was compact and easy to use, noting that it was particularly effective on electronics. Others also liked how easy it made screwing in small parts and its USB port that made it easy to charge.
However, we found that several others were disappointed that this screwdriver did not include speed control and found it odd that the LED light turned on only when the head was turning. Some customers also felt the torque settings were too low to be effective.
Buying Guide to Electric Screwdrivers
An electric screwdriver takes the stress out of DIY projects with precision and speed. This buying guide will help you find the best electric screwdriver to suit your needs.
Bits
The screw head or bit on your electric screwdriver needs to match the screws that you’re driving. Some electric screwdrivers come with screw-bit sets, while others require a separate purchase. Standard head types include Phillips, square, slot, hex, and star.
Clutch
The clutch refers to the main component of the screwdriver that allows it to apply torque to drive in the screw. Tools with adjustable clutch settings allow you to increase or decrease the torque applied as you work, giving you more flexibility and helping you avoid stripping or breaking fasteners.
Power Source
Corded electric screwdrivers have more power but must be used close to an outlet. Cordless electric screwdrivers have less-powerful batteries that must be recharged every so often.
Speed
The speed of an electric screwdriver is usually measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). Electric screwdrivers with high RPM ratings can turn screws faster.
Torque
Measured in Newton meters (Nm) or foot-pounds (fp), torque indicates the force a screwdriver can exert on screws. Higher torque is needed for harder wood, while lower torque is needed for softer wood.
Additional Features and Accessories
In addition to bit sets, some other features and accessories can come with your electric screwdriver. Popular additions include:
- Adjustable handles
- Carrying cases
- LED work lights
- Manual functions
- Quick chargers
Tips for Using an Electric Screwdriver
An electric screwdriver crosses a traditional screwdriver and an electric drill. While using an electric screwdriver is not overly challenging, there are a few critical screwdriver dos and don’ts to ensure you’re getting the most out of your power tool and operating the device safely.
- Although you can use an electric screwdriver for many things, some everyday tasks to consider using an electric screwdriver for include: removing a cabinet door, assembling electronics, replacing an outlet cover, working on craft projects, hanging a picture frame, removing a battery pack or cover, or assembling flat-pack furniture.
- Be sure you are using the right bits and screws when working with an electric screwdriver, or else the device won’t operate properly. To test if your bit is correct, try holding the device at a 45-degree angle and see if it falls off or stays in place.
- If you notice the bit slipping as you screw it in, apply more pressure to the top with your guide hand to help guide it down.
- Be aware of the position of the reverse action switch on your electric screwdriver. Some switches are near the trigger, while others are on the top or side. You may need to use your other hand to access the switch when you want to reverse the movement of your screwdriver in the pistol grip.
- If driving a light item you don’t want to break, set the electric screwdriver to a low torque level. You can always increase the torque later if you need more power.
Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Screwdrivers
What’s the difference between electric and manual screwdrivers?
The best manual screwdrivers are more portable because they’re lighter and not limited by the need to recharge a battery or plug in a cord. However, electric screwdrivers do the work for you, saving you time and energy if you’re driving many screws.
What safety precautions should I take when using my electric screwdriver?
Here are some tips on how to safely use an electric screwdriver:
- First, ensure the bit is sharp and free of grit and dust.
- Next, place the item you’re drilling on a secure surface, such as a work table.
- Finally, wear eye protection to prevent sawdust and dirt from getting into your eyes.
Are electric screwdrivers the same as drills?
Electric screwdrivers and drills are similar in appearance and function. However, electric screwdrivers are smaller, more lightweight, and more portable. They’re also more specialized, as they focus only on screws. Drills are more versatile because they can drill holes in addition to driving screws. In most cases, you can use a drill if you don’t have an electric screwdriver.
How We Selected the Best Electric Screwdrivers
To provide our readers with the best electric screwdriver recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of electric screwdrivers with a significant number of verified-buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: Through our years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is critical to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down further by comparing each model’s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIYers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published numerous tool reviews, from cordless drills and impact drivers to tape measures and laser levels.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
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