Cordless screwdrivers: Buying advice and tips

There is a wide range of cordless screwdrivers available in DIY stores. Prices range from around 20 euros to several hundred euros. Which model is the right one depends on the intended use:

Experienced do-it-yourselfers are often dissatisfied with a cheap cordless screwdriver in the long run when the tool reaches its performance limits.

Hobby hobbyists may be overwhelmed with an expensive high-end model. In addition, powerful tools with high battery power are often heavier than compact, inexpensive cordless screwdrivers for occasional use. Heavy models can lead to wrist pain or sore muscles when working for long periods.

Cordless screwdrivers - the differences

There are basically three different classes of tools:

Cordless screwdrivers: They do not have a drill chuck and only fulfil the function of screwing. These small, light and handy tools are ideal for assembling furniture and other light work.

Cordless screwdrivers: They have a drill chuck and two gears to distinguish between drilling (fast) and screwing (slow). A cordless drill can replace the traditional drill.

Cordless impact drill: In addition to the functions for screwing and drilling, these models have a switchable impact function for drilling. A mechanical percussion mechanism vibrates the drill so that you can also drill into concrete and masonry.

Pay attention to battery charger and ampere hours

Most tool manufacturers work with modular battery systems: All tools in a series use the same battery. For example, drill screwdrivers, angle grinders and jigsaws can all be operated with the same battery.

However, do-it-yourselfers should have at least one spare battery on hand, as rechargeable batteries often have a very long charging time: Conventional chargers need up to six hours to charge, while fast chargers can do it in about 20 minutes.

The higher the number of ampere hours (Ah) indicated on the battery, the longer you can work with the battery in one piece. Batteries with 1.5 to 2 ampere hours are sufficient for short jobs. If you want to work with the cordless screwdriver for a longer period of time, you should use a battery with 3 to 4 ampere hours.

High voltage for more motor power

The higher the battery voltage (in volts), the better you can use the screwdriver to screw in difficult-to-tighten screws and drill harder materials. The following voltages are common for cordless screwdrivers:

3.6 to 9.6 volts for light screwdriving work

9.6 to 14.4 volts as an all-rounder for screwing and drilling for do-it-yourselfers

18 volts and more for ambitious craftsmen

High torque brings power for drilling

The maximum torque indicates how much power a cordless drill has. This is usually given in Newton metres (Nm), for example 50 Nm. The higher the torque, the easier it is for a tool to turn a screw into the substrate. Tools with low torque "lock up" more quickly and can then no longer move a screw.

Motors with or without carbon brushes

Manufacturers of cordless screwdrivers use two different drive technologies for the motor:

Conventional devices are often operated with carbon brushes. Their job is to transmit current to the rotating inner part of the motor. If they are worn, the motor no longer works.

Modern devices run with brushless motors. In these, electronics ensure that a magnetic rotor inside the motor is set in motion.

Expensive cordless screwdrivers - the advantages

Compared to inexpensive models, many expensive cordless screwdrivers can offer some advantages:

Often expensive models are easier to use.

Many higher-priced models have better features and additional functions, such as a battery charge indicator or an integrated LED light that illuminates the surface to be worked on.

Expensive cordless screwdrivers often have a quick-release function that allows drill bits and bits to be clamped and changed with one hand. With inexpensive devices, you often need both hands for this.

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