Verdict
The Best 4Aggregated review·8 sources·updated May 23, 2026·checked August 2, 2026

Best Impact Drivers

The best impact drivers ranked by aggregate score from 8 published reviews.

This guide aggregates 8 published reviews across 4 products; the thinnest-sourced pick rests on 2. How we rank.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.
Quick answer

DeWalt Atomic DCF850 20V MAX Impact Driver is our top pick for impact drivers — an averaged 4.6/5 across 2 published reviews at about $135. Runner-up: Craftsman CMCF800C1 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit (~$99).

At a glance4 products
2 sources1 derived
$135Best for: users needing maximum portability
$135 · Check Price on Amazon
2 sourcesall derived
$99Best for: budget-conscious DIYers
$99 · Buy at lowes.com
2 sourcesall derived
$39.99Best for: budget-conscious DIYers seeking portability
$39.99 · Check Price on Amazon
Unrated2 sources
$82.49Best for: light to mid-duty DIYers
$82.49 · Check Price on Amazon

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

The full ranking

How we rank →
DeWalt Atomic DCF850 20V MAX Impact Driver
#1 · Top Score
Best for: users needing maximum portability
DeWalt Atomic DCF850 20V MAX Impact Driver
2 sources1 derived$135as of Aug 3
Why it's ranked here

At 3.97 inches long, the DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Impact Driver is the most compact 18/20V impact driver tested. Reviewers put it slightly behind the DCF887 on demanding tasks while noting it still has plenty of speed and torque on tap. A brushless motor, 3-LED light ring and reversible belt hook fill out the spec. Get it if portability and maneuverability rank above outright speed.

Strengths
  • Most compact 18/20V impact driver tested
  • 3-LED light ring around the collet
Watch-outs
  • Slightly slower performance in tougher driving tasks
  • Nothing else stands out as a weakness, but the compact build costs some raw driving power
Craftsman CMCF800C1 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit
#2
Best for: budget-conscious DIYers
Craftsman CMCF800C1 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit
2 sourcesall derived$99as of Aug 1
Why it's ranked here

For DIY and home improvement work, the Craftsman 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit's 1,460 in-lbs of torque and 2,800 RPM are enough. Autoblog called it 'phenomenal, powerful, and durable' at $59 and pointed to the quick-release chuck and LED light, while Amazon reviewers said it is 'perfect for mid- to light-duty work' and 'incredibly light for an impact driver.' Professionals who need more power will find it short. Two 1.5Ah batteries and a charger come in the box, so it is ready to use immediately.

Strengths
  • Delivers 1,460 in-lbs of torque and max 2,800 RPM/3,100 IPM for quick fastening applications
  • Features quick-release hex chuck for easy one-handed bit changes
Watch-outs
  • Not suitable for heavy-duty professional use according to some reviewers
  • Limited to 1,460 in-lbs torque which may not meet demands of all users
Galax Pro GP95307 20V Impact Driver
#3
Best for: budget-conscious DIYers seeking portability
Galax Pro GP95307 20V Impact Driver
2 sourcesall derived$39.99as of Aug 1
Why it's ranked here

The The GALAX PRO GP95307 20V Impact Driver pairs a 20V lithium-ion battery with a 1/4-inch hex chuck and puts real power behind it. Reviewers called the LED work light genuinely useful in low-light conditions, and the cordless design keeps it portable. Battery life on prolonged tasks is where some users raised concerns. It fits DIY enthusiasts and professionals who need dependable portable power for drilling and driving.

Strengths
  • 20V lithium-ion battery provides strong, consistent power for demanding drilling and driving tasks
  • 1/4-inch hex chuck delivers precise control and secure bit holding
Watch-outs
  • Limited battery life may require frequent recharging during extended use
  • No included carrying case or storage solution for accessories
Craftsman CMCF800C2 20V Cordless Impact Driver Kit
#4
Best for: light to mid-duty DIYers
Craftsman CMCF800C2 20V Cordless Impact Driver Kit
Unrated2 sources$82.49as of Aug 1
Why it's ranked here

The CRAFTSMAN V20* Cordless 1/4-in Impact Driver puts out 1,460 in-lbs of torque and 2,800 RPMs/3,100 IPMs, enough for demanding fastening work. Pro Tool Reviews credited the brushless motor, the 3-speed gearbox and the light 2.1 lbs body, and the quick-release chuck and LED light help day to day. In Pro Tool Reviews' testing it performed adequately but landed at the back of the pack on strength. A sensible choice for DIYers and pros already in the V20* ecosystem.

Strengths
  • Delivers 1,460 in-lbs of torque and max 2,800 RPMs/3,100 IPMs for quick fastening applications
  • Features quick-release hex chuck for easy one-handed bit changes
Watch-outs
  • Coverage is thin — too few independent tests to surface consistent weak points
  • Performance in strength tests placed it at the back of the pack
Reviews aggregated from
ProtoolreviewsWorkshopaddictAutoblogNathansbmwworkshopToolslogToolsinaction

Spec comparison

4 products
vs
SpecDeWalt Atomic DCF850 20V MAX Impact DriverCraftsman CMCF800C1 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit
Voltage20V MAX*20V MAX
Torque1825 in-lbs1,460 in-lbs
Chuck Size1/4 in.1/4 inch
Max RPM3,250 RPM2,800
Impacts Per Minute3800 IPM3,100
Battery TypeLi-Ion2 x 1.5Ah V20 20V MAX Li-ion
Motor TypeBrushlessBrushed
Weight2.1 lbs2.49 lbs

Frequently asked questions

What is the best impact driver?
DeWalt Atomic DCF850 20V MAX Impact Driver holds the top score for impact drivers — 4.6/5 averaged from 2 published reviews. At 3.97 inches long, the DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Impact Driver is the most compact 18/20V impact driver tested. Reviewers put it slightly behind the DCF887 on demanding tasks while noting it still has plenty of speed and torque on tap. A brushless motor, 3-LED light ring and reversible belt hook fill out the spec. Get it if portability and maneuverability rank above outright speed.
Is this impact driver guide up to date?
This guide was last re-checked in May 2026. Prices, links, and source ratings are re-verified on a rolling basis, and the ranking updates when the underlying scores change.

Related guides

Browse all →