Verdict
The Best 4Reviewed by Mike Hunter·May 23, 2026

Best Impact Drivers

Top 5 impact drivers reviewed and ranked.

Quick answer

Craftsman CMCF800C2 20V Cordless Impact Driver Kit is our top pick for impact drivers — an averaged 4.4/5 across 4 published reviews at about $116.74. Runner-up: DeWalt Atomic DCF850 20V MAX Impact Driver (~$165.75).

At a glance

Tap any product for the full review
(4 sources)
$116.74Best for: light to mid-duty DIYers
$116.74 · Check Price on Amazon
(4 sources)
$165.75Best for: users needing maximum portability
$165.75 · Check Price on Amazon
(4 sources)
$59Best for: budget-conscious DIYers
$59 · Buy at lowes.com
(3 sources)
$39.99Best for: budget-conscious DIYers seeking portability
$39.99 · Check Price on Amazon
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Reviews aggregated from
CraftsmanProtoolreviewsToolsinactionAcmetoolsDewaltThenewdewaltdcf845impactdriverispHowtouseadewaltimpactdriverPlay.google

The full ranking

How we rank →
Craftsman CMCF800C2 20V Cordless Impact Driver Kit
#1 · Top Score
Best for: light to mid-duty DIYers
Craftsman CMCF800C2 20V Cordless Impact Driver Kit
from 4 sources$116.74as of Jun 7

The CRAFTSMAN V20* Cordless 1/4-in Impact Driver delivers 1,460 in-lbs of torque and 2,800 RPMs/3,100 IPMs, making it suitable for demanding fastening tasks. Pro Tool Reviews praised its brushless motor, 3-speed gearbox, and lightweight design at 2.1 lbs. The tool includes a quick-release chuck and LED light for improved usability. While it performed adequately in testing, it ranked toward the back in strength tests. This impact driver is ideal for DIYers and professionals seeking reliable performance within a 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
  • No significant drawbacks mentioned in the review
  • Performance in strength tests placed it at the back of the pack
DeWalt Atomic DCF850 20V MAX Impact Driver
#2
Best for: users needing maximum portability
DeWalt Atomic DCF850 20V MAX Impact Driver
from 4 sources$165.75as of Jun 7

The DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Impact Driver is praised as the most compact 18/20V impact driver tested, measuring just 3.97 inches long. While it performs slightly slower than the DCF887 in demanding tasks, reviewers note it still delivers plenty of speed and torque. The tool features a brushless motor, 3-LED light ring, and reversible belt hook. It's ideal for users who prioritize portability and maneuverability over maximum 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
  • No significant drawbacks noted but performance trade-off exists
Craftsman CMCF800C1 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit
#3
Best for: budget-conscious DIYers
Craftsman CMCF800C1 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit
from 4 sources$59as of Jun 8

The Craftsman 20V MAX Impact Driver Kit offers solid performance with 1,460 in-lbs of torque and 2,800 RPM for DIY and home improvement tasks. Autoblog praised it as 'phenomenal, powerful, and durable' at $59, highlighting its quick-release chuck and LED light. Amazon reviewers noted it's 'perfect for mid- to light-duty work' and 'incredibly light for an impact driver.' However, professionals seeking more power may find it lacking. This kit includes two 1.5Ah batteries and a charger, making it ready-to-use right out of the box.

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
#4
Best for: budget-conscious DIYers seeking portability
Galax Pro GP95307 20V Impact Driver
from 3 sources$39.99as of Jun 7

The GALAX PRO Impact Driver delivers robust performance with its 20V lithium-ion battery and 1/4-inch hex chuck design. Reviewers noted its LED work light as a helpful feature for visibility in low-light conditions. While the cordless design provides portability, some users expressed concern about battery life during prolonged tasks. This tool is best suited for DIY enthusiasts and professionals requiring reliable, portable power for drilling and driving applications.

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

Spec comparison

4 products
SpecCraftsman CMCF800C2 20V Cordless Impact Driver KitDeWalt Atomic DCF850 20V MAX Impact DriverCraftsman CMCF800C1 20V MAX Impact Driver KitGalax Pro GP95307 20V Impact Driver
Voltage20 V20V MAX*20V MAX20 V
Torque1,460 in-lbs1825 in-lbs1,460 in-lbs100 Nm
Chuck Size1/4 in.1/4 in.1/4 inch1/4"
Max RPM2,800 RPMs/3,100 IPMs3,250 RPM2,8002,800 RPM
Impacts Per Minute3,100 ipms3800 IPM3,1003,000 BPM
Battery Type2.0Ah Li-ionLi-Ion2 x 1.5Ah V20 20V MAX Li-ionLithium-ion
Motor TypeBrushedBrushlessBrushedCopper motor
Weight2.1 lbs2.1 lbs2.49 lbs2.3 lbs

Frequently asked questions

What is the best impact driver?
Craftsman CMCF800C2 20V Cordless Impact Driver Kit is our top pick for impact drivers, with an averaged rating of 4.4/5 from 4 published reviews. The CRAFTSMAN V20* Cordless 1/4-in Impact Driver delivers 1,460 in-lbs of torque and 2,800 RPMs/3,100 IPMs, making it suitable for demanding fastening tasks. Pro Tool Reviews praised its brushless motor, 3-speed gearbox, and lightweight design at 2.1 lbs. The tool includes a quick-release chuck and LED light for improved usability. While it performed adequately in testing, it ranked toward the back in strength tests. This impact driver is ideal for DIYers and professionals seeking reliable performance within a V20* ecosystem.
Is there a cheaper alternative worth considering?
Galax Pro GP95307 20V Impact Driver (around $39.99) rates 3.8/5 in our analysis. The GALAX PRO Impact Driver delivers robust performance with its 20V lithium-ion battery and 1/4-inch hex chuck design. Reviewers noted its LED work light as a helpful feature for visibility in low-light conditions. While the cordless design provides portability, some users expressed concern about battery life during prolonged tasks. This tool is best suited for DIY enthusiasts and professionals requiring reliable, portable power for drilling and driving applications.
How does Verdict rank these products?
Every rating on Verdict is the numerical average of scores published by independent review sites, YouTube reviewers, and Reddit buyer reports. No editor adjusts the order — the ranking is whatever the source data produces. See our methodology page for the full process.
When was this guide last updated?
This guide was last re-checked in May 2026. We re-run our research pipeline for each category on a rolling basis so prices and rankings reflect current market reality.

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