Which is better, brushed or brushless screwdriver? A screwdriver with a brushless motor has disadvantages. Choosing a screwdriver for the home

Professional Application involves the selection of tools for the types of work performed. The requirements may be different, but for adequate classification it is worth proceeding from the power of the screwdriver. It is indirectly characterized by the maximum torque value, battery capacity and its rated voltage. A typical generalist kit consists of three screwdrivers:

  • with a capacious 10.8 V battery and a torque of up to 30 Nm - for light work and small fasteners;
  • 12 or 14.4 V and CM of the order of 40-50 Nm - for solving problems of intermediate complexity;
  • powerful 18-volt screwdriver with high torque - for difficult power work.

Irregular work allow the use of fewer tools and require greater versatility from them. If you plan to use a screwdriver rarely, it makes sense to pay attention to network models. At least consider them as an option for one of the tools. Another solution to the problem of battery degradation can be the use of professional lines with universal batteries, for example, from Hilti.

Finally, for occasional housework there is no need for particularly powerful devices, and the range of tasks solved at home usually does not go beyond the capabilities of 10-12-volt models. In terms of maximum torque, the most versatile screwdrivers will be 20-30 Nm. The optimal battery capacity is about 1.5 Ah.

As you can see from our review, good quality screwdrivers are produced by different companies. For occasional use, for the home, garage and cottage, models from domestic brands such as Interskol, Zubr or Enkor are perfect - reliable and at the same time inexpensive. For professional work, it is better to purchase a tool based on your financial capabilities and expected loads.

It is worth noting once again that in this rating we included the most popular models that arouse the greatest interest and are most often discussed on specialized network resources when choosing the right power tool for different tasks. The review presents the best screwdrivers mainly for household use, which are easy to find in the retail chain. If you use a similar tool in your professional work, and intensively, pay attention to manufacturers such as Festool, Fein or Milwaukee (for example, models Festool C12, Fein ASCM 18 and Milwaukee HD28 PD). True, you will have to search for these screwdrivers or order them in online stores.

We hope that our review will be useful to you - and we wish you a successful purchase!

Not all work around the house or on a summer cottage, performed with a screwdriver by a home craftsman, has comfortable conditions for their implementation. Certain difficulties arise with tasks that have to be performed at some distance from the power supply point. Extension cords come to the rescue; many craftsmen extend the power cable of the instrument. In this case, it is much easier to use a screwdriver powered by rechargeable batteries. ChudoVanna will tell you how to choose a cordless screwdriver.

Advantages and disadvantages of a cordless screwdriver

A cordless screwdriver is one of the most popular tools used in everyday life.

Advantages of the tool:

  • Mobility and convenience when working in hard-to-reach places.
  • Safety during work. When stretching a long network cable to a certain height, there is a risk of getting tangled in the wire.
  • No interference in the form of a stretched cable for others.
  • Work will not be interrupted suddenly due to a power outage or a plug being accidentally pulled out of the socket.
  • There is no need to purchase additional extension cords or carriers.
  • High voltage is not used during operation, which increases safety when working in wet rooms or outdoor conditions.
  • Independence from external power source. Particularly relevant for suburban buildings and new buildings.
  • The battery makes the tool balanced.
  • Compared to the network model, the device has softer and more precise adjustment of operating modes. Operating at low currents ensures a smoother transition from one mode to another, which protects fastener notches from damage.

Disadvantages of cordless screwdrivers:

  • Increasing the dimensions of the tool.
  • The increase in weight, but the balanced arrangement of the battery packs makes this disadvantage hardly noticeable.
  • The need to periodically recharge the battery. (Some models come with two batteries.)
  • Operating at low temperatures quickly damages most models.
  • Long-term storage reduces battery charge.
  • Higher price than a corded screwdriver.

How to choose a cordless screwdriver for your home, depending on its types and their characteristics

To decide which cordless screwdriver is best for you, you need to know in advance exactly what its loads and operating conditions will be. Only after this can you make a purchase by selecting a model that meets your specific needs.

One-time household work can be done using a household screwdriver, and if you plan to carry out DIY repairs or construction on a summer cottage, it is advisable to purchase a professional or semi-professional model.

A professional tool is made from higher quality materials, which increase its performance characteristics; it is able to cope with a large volume of work without harm to the engine and other components.

Types of batteries used

Cordless screwdriver models are equipped with one of three types of batteries:

  • Nickel metal hydride.

Each battery has its own advantages and disadvantages, so a cordless screwdriver must be selected primarily taking them into account.

Nickel-cadmium batteries

This type of battery requires compliance with the discharge regime. It is necessary to charge the battery only after it is completely discharged. Otherwise, crystals form on the plates of the device, which lead to improper operation of the device, and over time, completely damage the battery.

Under proper operating conditions (full discharge and emptying), the batteries will last a long time. Their advantages:

  • Relatively fast charging;
  • The charge capacity is almost unchanged when the external temperature drops; they can provide operation at t -15 °C;
  • Low price compared to other types.

The batteries are designed for 1.5 thousand charging cycles. Shelf life – 5 years.

The disadvantage of nickel-cadmium batteries is their rapid self-discharge. If the device has not been used for some time, it must be fully recharged.

Nickel metal hydride batteries

The battery is designed for 1 thousand charging cycles. Compared to its predecessors - nickel-cadmium batteries, this type has advantages:

  • Higher (30%) specific capacity;
  • Greater resistance to mechanical damage.

Disadvantages of the device in comparison with its predecessor:

  • Daily charge loss – 1%;
  • Requires longer charging time;
  • Sensitivity to deep discharge;

Lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries

A cordless screwdriver with lithium batteries is the best choice for both professionals and amateurs. Strengths of lithium-ion batteries:

  • Light weight and compact;
  • Low degree of self-discharge;
  • Lack of “memory effect” (“memory effect” - a decrease in battery capacity after several tens of charging cycles);
  • The highest charge density per unit mass compared to other types.

Manufacturing companies use various lithium battery manufacturing technologies. Depending on the technology, batteries have different properties. For example, Makita integrates a chip into each battery that controls temperature, period of use and charge level. This automatically ensures the best charging mode, allowing you to fully charge the device within half an hour or an hour. And Hitachi uses technologies that allow the device to be fully charged in just 30 minutes.

The disadvantages of lithium batteries include:

  • Sensitivity to low temperatures;
  • Relatively low service life;

Having decided on the type of batteries that will be equipped with the screwdriver, you should consider other important characteristics for the device.

Voltage

The battery voltage affects the power of the screwdriver. The higher the battery voltage, the higher the power of the tool. The equipment offered by manufacturers has batteries with voltages of 9 V, 12 V, 18 V, 24 V, 36 V. The battery power corresponds to the energy consumed by the screwdriver motor.

The 9V tool is portable and intended for occasional use. If you need to choose a cordless screwdriver for home and household use with light loads, your needs will be satisfied by models with a voltage of 12 V. A tool with a voltage of 18 V and higher is classified as professional equipment used in energy-intensive work.

Torque

One of the main characteristics of screwdrivers, indicating the maximum rotational force of the shaft (spindle). The speed of screwing in the fastener, its maximum length and diameter depend on it. An average level tool for a home craftsman has an indicator of 16-25 Nm. A professional tool has a rating of 40-60 Nm, some models have a rating of up to 150 Nm.

In battery-powered models, the torque depends on the battery charge. If the screwdriver battery is partially discharged, the torque may be reduced by up to 30%. Over time, nickel-cadmium and nickel-metal hydride batteries no longer produce the original current and voltage, which also affects the torque drop.

Speed

The indicator depends on the screwdriver gearbox and is important for performing certain jobs. Household models usually have a two-speed mode of 500 rpm and 1200 rpm. At low speed, screw in the fasteners and drill large-diameter holes in brittle and soft material (for example, a hole for a socket box in drywall). Drill small holes into hard material at high speed. The speed of a professional tool is more than 2 thousand rpm, reaching 4-6 thousand rpm.

Basic parameters when choosing a cordless screwdriver

The main characteristics of the tool that you should focus on before finally choosing a cordless screwdriver:

  • Battery type and capacity;

You should pay attention to the design features and additional equipment:

  • Presence of speed switch;
  • Chuck type (quick-clamp or jaw);
  • Availability of illumination of the working area;
  • Availability of a container for bits or a magnetic holder;
  • Number of batteries included.

Top 10 best cordless screwdrivers

Leading models with batteries up to 10.8 V

Leading models with batteries up to 12 V

AEG BS 12G2 LI-152C

The screwdriver is from German developers, has 24 torque values, metal gears. Disadvantages: no residual charge indicator or backlight, non-removable cartridge.

Makita 6271 DWAE

The optimal solution from Japanese developers for professionals at an affordable price. 16 stages of torque adjustment, electronic brake, battery charging in 45 minutes. Disadvantages: small case capacity.

Milwaukee M12 CDD-202C

A professional screwdriver from American developers, its drive and battery are protected from overload by an electronic system. Able to work at t - 20°C. Disadvantages: high price.

Leading models with batteries up to 14.4 V


Bison ZDA-14.4-2 KIN20

Domestic budget option for household needs. The batteries allow operation at sub-zero temperatures. Good ergonomics, electronic brake, backlight. Disadvantages: low engine speed, battery “memory”.


Metabo BS 14.4 Li 2.0Ah x 2 Case

A Japanese instrument that is suitable for home needs and professional activities, convenient lighting. The batteries are equipped with residual charge indicators. Disadvantages: low quality cartridge, too wide engine cooling slots.

Bosch GSR 1440-Li

The German screwdriver is distinguished by high reliability, power and fast charging. Low noise level, low weight (1.3 kg). Disadvantages: lack of LED backlight, minimum torque is too high.

Leading models with 18 V battery

And other entries from the DIY bathroom renovation section

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Analyzing: which screwdriver to choose

A screwdriver today has gained fame as a rather practical tool, which is why many home craftsmen can see its presence. If we talk about professionals whose activities are inextricably linked with solving many construction problems, then they cannot do without a screwdriver.

Why is the presented tool so convenient? Let's figure it out.

So, firstly, a screwdriver is an indispensable assistant when it is necessary to screw in and unscrew a large number of screws, bolts, self-tapping screws (for example, to assemble a wardrobe), and for the convenience of the user, the clamping force of the fasteners can be strictly limited. Secondly, a screwdriver can also drill various types of materials. Well, if you take into account the ability to carry out work in places without electricity, then it becomes clear that a screwdriver is an irreplaceable thing. In view of all of the above, it can be noted that the question of which screwdriver to choose worries a large number of consumers. Let's discuss this.

Screwdriver power characteristics

To begin with, it should be noted that all screwdrivers can be divided into two main groups: networked (operating from the electrical network) and battery-powered. In the first case, the design of the tool provides for the presence of a conversion transformer, which significantly increases the weight of the screwdriver, at the same time, connecting to the electrical network allows you to carry out work without time restrictions (convenient when working with the tool within the same room).

While cordless screwdrivers are famous for the fact that they can be used to work in all places that do not have electrical wiring. Naturally, the operating life of such devices has limited performance and directly depends on the type of batteries used. Such tools are simply irreplaceable when finishing facades.

If we consider the types of batteries that can be used in modern screwdrivers, we can highlight the following:

  1. lithium-ion (Li-Ion) (provide more than 1000 charge-discharge cycles);
  2. nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) (provide 500 charge-discharge cycles);
  3. nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) (provide 1000 charge-discharge cycles).

The last two types of the listed devices are distinguished by their ability to operate at low temperatures and relatively low cost. However, their significant drawback is the “memory effect”, which requires the user to fully discharge and fully charge them during operation. Failure to comply with this condition will lead to premature loss of capacity of these elements.

Whereas lithium-ion batteries do not have this disadvantage and can be used in any mode without problems. Their disadvantages include higher cost and loss of capacity when used in the subzero temperature range.

When choosing a cordless screwdriver, it is advisable to take care of the availability of a replaceable battery, which will make it possible to eliminate downtime during operation by using and accordingly recharging alternately the replaceable and main batteries. Also, the presence of two batteries will increase the operating time of the device (especially important for non-electrified objects).

Screwdriver speed and torque

To understand this issue in more detail, you should decide on the type of screwdriver - whether it will be a professional or a household tool. This depends primarily on the scope of the expected work for which the screwdriver is designed.

So, if you need to use the device for a short time (at home), the household option will come in handy. If you plan to use a screwdriver every day (in professional activities), then a professional screwdriver should be your mandatory choice. Although it is more expensive, its ability to withstand continuous high loads and a wider range of options allow it to be used to solve many production problems.

Therefore, in household screwdrivers, the rotation speed will be 350-500 rpm, but as for the torque, you can stop at 20 N/m. These criteria will be sufficient for screwing and unscrewing screws even into hard materials.

As for screwdrivers for professional activities, these data should have the following values: 1200 rpm and 80-100 N/m. This arrangement will allow the product to be used not only for its intended purpose, but also to drill and even perforate materials.

Power modules for screwdrivers

Considering that the main working mechanism of any screwdriver is its engine, then before choosing a screwdriver, it is advisable to pay attention to its features. Today, screwdrivers can use two types of motors: brushless and commutator (with brushes). Moreover, the first of them are more expensive elements, but do not require maintenance, and function silently and smoothly. Whereas the second version of the product involves periodic revision of the commutator-brush assembly, therefore, when choosing a screwdriver equipped with just such a module, it is advisable to ensure that there is unhindered access to the device.

Screwdriver ergonomics

Considering the fact that a screwdriver is considered a device for long-term use, its ergonomics play an important role. That is, the tool should fit well in the hand (without slipping) and be comfortable to hold. An excellent option would be a screwdriver design where its center of gravity is located in the central part of the handle.

Additional screwdriver options

Of course, for optimal operation of a screwdriver, in addition to the main characteristics, it is advisable to pay attention to the accompanying capabilities.

So, first you need to pay attention to the possibility of adjusting the parameters:

  1. Chuck rotation speed (allows you to perform various types of work (twisting, drilling));
  2. Transmitted force (helps limit the applied torque).

Also a good function of the screwdriver is the indication of the battery charge level and illumination of the work area.

When choosing a screwdriver, you should pay attention to the following accessories:

  • Portable case (case);
  • Additional battery (By the way, read about how to charge it correctly here);
  • Charger
  • Set of bits and heads.

Well, that's probably all. We hope that this material will be a good help for you in the question of which screwdriver to choose with your own hands.

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If you liked the material, I will be grateful if you recommend it to friends or leave a useful comment.

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How to choose a cordless screwdriver: learning to make the right choice

It's no secret that purchasing any construction tool, including a cordless screwdriver, is a crucial moment. Therefore, before going to the store, each of us has one single question: how to choose the right screwdriver?

Advantages and disadvantages of a cordless screwdriver

First, let's define the tasks that need to be solved during the repair process. It must be remembered that a multifunctional household screwdriver is not much cheaper than a professional one. The main difference is only that a professional tool can withstand heavy loads, without requiring careful treatment, since it is made of expensive, more resistant materials. Some technical data sheets even say that this screwdriver does not lose functionality when dropped from a height.

In a word, it is more adapted to work in “Spartan” conditions. Another advantage of a professional tool is the minimum number of bells and whistles, thanks to which it breaks much less often than household ones, which can do almost everything - twist screws, plan wood, work with a jigsaw, and double as a drill.

Therefore, when choosing a cordless screwdriver, you must remember that even in the conditions of ordinary apartment renovation, a household tool is used less intensively than a professional one.

Characteristics and functionality of screwdrivers

Among the most important characteristics is the rotation speed of the cartridge. For household models, it is, of course, lower and amounts to 500 rpm. While for professional screwdrivers it reaches 1500 rpm. An important characteristic is torque, which shows what density of material a particular tool can work with. The more torque a screwdriver has, the denser the material it can process.

In other words, torque measures the force that a given tool must overcome to produce rotary motion in a given environment. For household screwdrivers it is no more than 15Nm, and for professional screwdrivers it reaches 130Nm. For convenience and simplicity, some models are equipped with electronic speed controllers.

Which cordless screwdriver should you choose? When answering this question, it is very important to correctly determine the type of battery. To do this, let's look at some types and types of batteries that screwdrivers operate on. All models are equipped with batteries with voltages from 7.2 to 36 Volts.

  • lithium-ion;
  • nickel metal hydride;
  • nickel-cadmium.

Each battery has its pros and cons. Lithium-ion ones have light weight and high performance, charge quickly, nickel-cadmium ones can be charged many times, but they weigh a lot and pollute the environment, nickel-metal hydride ones weigh less than nickel-cadmium ones, are environmentally friendly, but do not allow working in the cold and have a small number of recharging times. Therefore, paying attention to the battery, choose the model that charges quickly (from half an hour to an hour). These are usually screwdrivers with lithium-ion batteries.

Choosing a screwdriver for the home

So, how can we choose a screwdriver and not throw money away? There is no exact recipe, but there is a certain scope of work that you need to do.

  1. Let's pay attention to the engine. We prefer the brushless model, since such a motor runs smoothly and quietly, is easy to maintain, and has a long service life. If you still choose a motor with brushes, see if it is possible to get to them without the help of a specialist. This is important because it will allow you to avoid running to a service center to have them cleaned.
  2. The cartridge also matters. They are divided, as a rule, into two types - a three-jaw (quick-release) chuck and a hexagonal chuck with a ¼-inch shank. Which cartridge is more convenient, everyone decides for himself. Some will like the quick-release one, while others will want to choose the latter because it is more convenient when replacing them. One thing is for sure - the larger the diameter of the chuck, the more versatile the screwdriver.
  3. Number of revolutions per minute. If you are planning to build a couple of cabinets or make a wall with your own hands, 500 rpm is quite enough. But then you won't be able to use the screwdriver as a drill. If you plan to use the device not only as a screwdriver, choose a model with 1200 - 1300 rpm. True, such a model will cost an order of magnitude more.

The Internet allows you to find a large number of videos on how to choose the right cordless screwdriver.

You should not neglect them, since such videos usually tell in detail and clearly show how one or another model differs from each other, and which one is better to use for certain types of work.

Cordless screwdrivers have become popular due to their mobility and capabilities. The lack of dependence on a power source allows you to solve many more construction problems.

What is a brushless motor

The development of semiconductor electronics in the 1970s led to the realization that the commutator and brushes had to be eliminated in DC motors. In a brushless motor, an electronic amplifier replaces mechanical switching contacts. An electronic sensor detects the angle of rotation of the rotor and is responsible for monitoring the semiconductor switches. Elimination of sliding contacts reduced friction and increased the service life of screwdrivers.



Such a motor provides higher operating efficiency and less susceptibility to mechanical wear. Brushless motors have several advantages over brushed motors:

  • higher torque;
  • increased reliability;
  • noise reduction;
  • long service life.



The insides of the motor can be completely covered and protected from dirt or moisture. By converting electricity into mechanical force, brushless motors are more efficient.

The speed depends on the voltage, but does not depend on the centrifugal force, and the motor operates in the set mode. Even with current leakage or magnetization, such a unit does not reduce performance, and the rotation speed coincides with the rotating torque.


When using such a motor, there is no need to use a winding and a commutator, and the magnet in the design is characterized by low weight and size.

Brushless motors are used in devices whose power is up to 5 kW. It is irrational to use them in equipment of higher power. Moreover, the magnets in the design are sensitive to magnetic fields and high temperatures.



Brushless screwdriver: the principle of energy generation

A brushless screwdriver has a motor of the type described; its difference is that the current is switched not in the rotor, but in the stator windings. There are no coils on the armature, and the magnetic field is created by means of magnets installed in the design of the tool.

The moment when energy supply is required is determined by special sensors. Their work is based on the Hall effect. DPR pulses and the speed controller signal are processed in a microprocessor, as a result of which they are formed. In professional language, they are also called PWM signals.



The created pulses are sequentially fed to inverters or, more simply, amplifiers, which increase the current strength, and their outputs are connected to a winding located on the stator. These current amplifiers are designed to switch the current arising in the coils, according to the signals that come from the microprocessor unit. As a result of this interaction, a magnetic field is formed, which comes into contact with what is around the rotor, as a result of which the armature begins to rotate.



Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages include:

  • Possibility to adjust the rotation speed. At the same time, the user has a wide range of settings for this indicator, depending on the work performed and the working surface.
  • The design of such a unit does not have a commutator-brush assembly; therefore, the tool breaks less often when used correctly, and maintenance does not cause problems.
  • A screwdriver copes better with heavy loads associated with increased torque.


  • Battery energy is used sparingly.
  • The efficiency of such equipment is 90%.
  • The ability to use a screwdriver in a hazardous environment with the presence of an explosive gas mixture, since there is no sparking.
  • Miniature dimensions and light weight.
  • The same power is maintained in both directions of operation.
  • Even increased load does not cause a decrease in speed.

Flaws:

  • Impressive value.
  • The screwdriver is large in size, which makes it difficult to work at arm's length and in hard-to-reach places.



It is very important to pay attention to what type of battery is included in the design of the tool. If you choose the right screwdriver with a brushless motor, it will work for a long time and will delight you with its performance.

Comparison of commutator and brushless tools

As already noted, the efficiency of brushless motors is higher and amounts to 90%. In comparison, collectors have only 60%. This suggests that with the same battery capacity, a brushless screwdriver will work longer on one charge, which is very important if the charging source is far away.


The dimensions and weight are also better for the tool that has a brushless motor inside.

In this regard, we can say that the described equipment is much more efficient, but the user is often stopped by its cost. Since any tool, even the most expensive one, fails sooner or later, most people prefer to work with cheap Chinese products. But if you want to buy a unit that will last a long time, then it’s worth knowing the basic selection criteria that a modern user should rely on.



How to choose

If a consumer is willing to pay a decent price for a brushless screwdriver, then they should take a deeper look into what parameters are important when choosing a quality tool.

  • In the design of such equipment, the chuck can be quick-release or hexagonal, whose shank diameter is most often ¼ inch. In the first case, changing equipment is easier and faster, but another type of cartridge is no worse, so it is better to rely on the diameter. Since the value is responsible for the versatility of the tool, it is desirable that it be larger.
  • The number of revolutions is also no less important. If you do not plan to work with the tool constantly, but need, for example, to assemble furniture, then a screwdriver with an indicator of 500 rpm will be sufficient. Such a unit cannot be used as a drill, and if this function is necessary, then it is better to pay attention to a product with an indicator of 1300 rpm and higher.
  • The choice of battery is especially important. Today on the market you can find screwdrivers with nickel-metal hydride batteries; they have excellent resistance to mechanical stress, but they quickly self-discharge and take a long time to charge. Nickel-cadmium batteries quickly absorb energy, can be used at low air temperatures and have a low cost, but they also discharge quickly and can last a maximum of 5 years. Lithium-ion or lithium-polymer are small in weight and size, do not self-discharge, but cannot be used in the cold and have a short service life.

Comments:

Surely everyone knows what a screwdriver is. Even women know how to use it. The way the modern world works is that most of the items in the house are secured using fasteners. It’s one thing when you need to unscrew several screws - you can also use a screwdriver. But assembling new furniture, moving, and just in everyday life, probably many men and even some women could use a screwdriver.

Before you go to the store to buy a new tool, it is advisable to accurately determine the model. It is necessary to consider the possible characteristics of screwdrivers, because each model has its own advantages and disadvantages. Rotation speed, torque, professional or home, battery or mains power - we will look at these and other characteristics further.

The design of a screwdriver is very similar to that of a drill, but there are some differences. If we compare these tools, the choice leans in favor of a screwdriver, since, firstly, it has a soft start, secondly, the self-tapping screw can be tightened with any force, and thirdly, almost every modern screwdriver has a speed control.

Modern manufacturers provide many varieties of construction tools, adding new buttons and new functions, and the price increases accordingly. Everyone wants to buy a good screwdriver at an affordable price, without overpaying for unnecessary features.

What qualities and characteristics should a good screwdriver have?

Main characteristics

  1. First of all, it must be reliable.
  2. If today you only need to assemble a computer desk, then perhaps tomorrow you will have to work with other materials. That is why a screwdriver must have good power so that it can make holes in any material.
  3. Convenience is very important. Here you should pay attention to the comfortable handle, weight, size of the tool, and location of the control buttons. Pay attention to reloading - it shouldn't be too difficult.
  4. If the screwdriver is battery-powered, then you should pay attention to the battery life, i.e. How long does it last from full charge to discharge?
  5. Additional functions. Familiarize yourself with them and assess whether you will need them or not. Most often, manufacturers fill the tool with unnecessary functions that consumers most often do not use, but only overpay significant sums for them.

In order to decide which screwdriver to choose, you must answer several questions for yourself: how often will you use this tool? What do you need it for - for professional activities or for home? Do you handle all the housework yourself or do you more often call a professional to your home? The answers to these questions should be used as a starting point when choosing a tool.

Why do you need a screwdriver?

When you come to the store, you will initially be presented with professional models (more expensive) and models for home use (cheaper). The differences are in the rotating segment.

If models for home use only have up to 400 revolutions, then professional screwdrivers have 130 Nm. What does the speed of revolutions affect? If the screwdriver has a speed of 1300, then it can even make holes in metal. Therefore, decide why you need this tool - for small work around the house or for work?

If only for home, then there is no point in overpaying. However, there are men, jacks of all trades, who do not trust their home to anyone and prefer to do everything with their own hands. In this case, a professional tool will not hurt.

Choose network or battery?

All screwdrivers can be divided into two types depending on the type of power supply: mains or battery.

Modern tools most often run on a battery, which needs to be charged periodically.

But there are also models that operate from the network. Most consumers prefer a battery, since such a tool can be used even in places where there is no electricity.

If you have chosen a cordless screwdriver, then you should next pay attention to the type of battery. They come in three types:

  1. Lithium-ion batteries are the most powerful and durable, they are particularly reliable and have a long service life. It can be used even at low temperatures. But this type has no memory.
  2. The nickel-metal hydride battery is the lightest among its peers, but its service life is not eternal - it lasts for 500 charges.
  3. The nickel-cadmium battery has almost disappeared from the construction tools market. It is toxic and is not recommended for people with allergies. However, such models are still available for sale. Service life - 100 charges. They can withstand low temperatures and have memory, so the speed decreases with each charge.

When buying a screwdriver, immediately pay attention to the prices of batteries. The price of the battery is almost half the cost of the finished tool. That's why look for models with a spare battery included. This way you will save your money significantly.

Please note that a real high-quality screwdriver must include a charger. For a professional screwdriver, one hour is enough to charge; for a home screwdriver, three to seven hours are enough to fully charge. The operating time of the tool from charging to discharging depends on the battery capacity, so choose the model with the largest capacity.

Which screwdriver should you choose—battery-powered or electric-powered?

Again, think about where you will work with this tool. If you are not going to go outside your apartment or dacha, at most on the street, then why do you need a battery? You will always find an outlet; in extreme cases, you can use an extension cord.

In such a situation, it is better to work from the network. In addition, battery models, in addition to their advantages, have disadvantages:

  • due to the weight of the battery, the weight of the screwdriver itself increases, this is extremely inconvenient if you need to work with weight for a long time;
  • when discharged, the speed and power of the tool are significantly reduced, which causes inconvenience and discomfort;
  • if you need to complete a major job that takes a long time, the battery may not be charged enough, in which case you will have to wait until it charges;
  • With each new charge, the operating time of the tool decreases.

Before answering the question of which screwdriver to choose, it is also worth studying the tool’s accessories.

Convenience is not the main factor of choice. After all, reliability, power, and service life depend, first of all, on the engine, gearbox and cartridge.

Which engine to choose?

When choosing a tool for yourself, pay attention to the engine of the selected model. There are two types of designs: brushed (collector) and brushless (non-contact).

If you compare the characteristics of each design, then it is better to make a choice in favor of the contactless option. It works smoother, quieter, longer, has more technical resources, but at the same time it does not require additional maintenance. Accordingly, its weight and size are larger. The price depends directly on the quality, so models with a brushless motor are much more expensive. When choosing such a motor, pay attention to access to the brushes. If access is free, then during the work you can do without specialists if intervention is required.

Features of choosing a gearbox

The speed of the torque directly depends on the gearbox. Manufacturers prefer a gearbox with two speeds of the planetary type. This gearbox has high performance. There are metal and plastic gearboxes. More reliable and durable - metal.

What does torque depend on? From the number of steps: the more steps, the greater the efficiency and accuracy of the tool.

If you only need to tighten fasteners, then choose models with a speed of about 500 rpm. There is no need to overpay for additional revolutions. But if you know that you will need to drill holes, then the number of revolutions should not be less than 1300 per minute.

How to choose a cartridge

The type of cartridge in each tool is different. In a professional screwdriver you will probably find only hex chucks, while in home versions you will find universal chucks. What's better than a hex chuck? The speed of tool replacement for a hex chuck is significantly higher than that of a conventional universal chuck. To change the equipment in the universal version, you will have to make a little effort. If you need to change accessories when there is no power to the tool, then you need to choose a screwdriver with an automatic spindle lock function.

What additional functions can a screwdriver have?

Which screwdriver to choose is up to you. But don't be fooled by a salesperson who sells you a very expensive model with lots of extra features that you may never use. So, possible additional functions:

  1. Reverse. This is a feature that allows the chuck to be rotated in the opposite direction. This function is not so much an additional one as a basic one. With its help you can not only tighten, but also unscrew fasteners.
  2. Spindle lock. Using this function, it is much easier to change the accessories in the chuck.
  3. Backlight. Essential feature. You may have to turn off the power to complete certain points. To avoid asking someone to hold the flashlight, simply turn on the flashlight on the screwdriver.
  4. Often the instrument is sold in a special case - a suitcase. It is protected from impact during a fall, and all the necessary additional tools can also be placed there.

Manufacturer selection

Walking into a hardware store, anyone’s eyes will initially run wild at the variety of choices. Moreover, most models will have almost the same characteristics, only the difference in price will be surprising. So what's the difference? And the difference is in the manufacturer. The better a company's reputation, the more expensive its product. Whether it makes sense to overpay for a brand is up to you to decide.

The main thing is not to come across a fake. Therefore, buy tools only from trusted sellers. The most popular brands that have earned the trust of customers are Hitachi, Bosch and Makita. If you need a tool exclusively for home use, pay attention to Black&Decker.

Final decision

So, you have decided what characteristics your tool should have and why you need it. The final selection criteria should be:

  • choose a model only from a trusted manufacturer with an additional battery;
  • choose a model with a torque limiter.

If you need to not only tighten fasteners, but also drill holes, choose models with the ability to switch speeds and with high torque speeds.

Good day Muskovites!
I present to you a review of the DeWALT DCD996 cordless brushless screwdriver, which I purchased on ebay in the USA.
I continue the series of reviews about the DeWALT tool.

Purchase history. I bought a screwdriver a few months ago. After I decided on the choice of the Dewalt 20v system (in Europe and Russia the tool comes with the same indexes, but is labeled as 18v). Then for two weeks I monitored ebay in search of a suitable lot. If you're in a rush, you can overpay $20-30. I was happy with the price of $136.98 including delivery and bought the lot. The lot was only a tool, instructions and a pen, there was no yellow cardboard box, only a bag because... lot from the set. USPS priority shipping. Delivered in three weeks to my post office.

This screwdriver model is the top model in the 20 volt DeWALT line.
Specifications:
Torque adjustment 11 positions + drilling + drilling with impact.
Maximum drilling torque 95Nm
Maximum soft torque 66Nm
Output power 820W
The cartridge is completely metal from 1.5 to 13mm (I clamped 0.8 without problems)
The motor is brushless.
Handle seat 48.5mm (cannot be placed on a drill stand without collective farming)
The gearbox housing is metal.
3 speed gearbox.
Drilling speed:
0-450/0-1300/0-2000 RPM
Impact drilling speed:
0-500/0-1500/0-2250 RPM
Hit:
0-8600/0-25500/0-38250 BPM
Carcass weight with handle 1570g
Weight with handle and homemade 6Ah battery 2200g






The instrument is made in the USA from global materials. The rubberized handle fits comfortably in the hand, although it is certainly heavy. But if compared with the previous 885 brush model, Shurik has become smaller and has added power.
This shurik is for hard work. And for small jobs I have 10.8 Metabo. The gearbox housing is metal. I think there is no point in disassembling it; installing plastic gears seems to have not been noticed by Devault. There is a belt clip that can be placed on either side. The torque control has not only a mechanical, but also an electronic clutch. Those. When the moment is reached, the electronics stops the engine, starting can only be done after releasing the button. The cartridge has a freewheel. The cams have carbide inserts. The equipment is clamped and removed with a click. There is a direction/lock switch button.
The backlight switch is located by the handle. Any mode is activated only after briefly pressing the trigger.
The backlight has three modes:
1 weak light turns off after 20 seconds of inactivity
2 middle light turns off after 20 seconds of inactivity
3 bright light turns off after 20 MINUTES of inactivity
Let me note that I liked the feature. The backlight in mode 3 is very bright and the tool can be used as a flashlight where there is no light.

Backlight operation




I would like to note one plus of this model. At first speed, with minimal pressure on the trigger, the shaft will rotate very slowly. I also observed this plus in other 18v ​​devolts that I watched offline.
What can I say, the screwdriver feels like it works and performs all its functions. It's nice to hold in your hands. Dope in the drill car.

Comparison with baby Metabo:

Additional Information