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10 Best Makita Impact Drivers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Makita XDT19Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Quick-Shift Mode™ 4-Speed Impact Driver, Tool Only

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,357
Weight
Additional Features

Most important from
317 reviews

Weight
Smaller than expected, which is great for using inside existing framing with drywall.
Additional Features
The compact and feature-packed design makes it a versatile addition, allowing my 18V Makita drill to focus on drilling tasks while this impact driver handles fasteners.

The Makita XDT19Z 18V LXT Impact Driver is a cordless tool powered by an 18V battery, making it convenient for mobile use. It boasts a brushless motor that provides up to 3,600 RPM and 1,590 in.lbs. of torque, which is quite powerful for various fastening tasks.

The driver features a 4-speed power selection, allowing users to adjust the speed and impacts per minute (IPM) for precise control across different applications. The Quick-Shift Mode enhances efficiency by automatically selecting the best balance of speed and torque for the task at hand. Additionally, the Assist Mode helps prevent common issues like screw cam-out and cross threading by starting at low speed until tightening begins. The one-touch 4-speed selector under the chuck adds convenience for quick adjustments.

The chuck size is 0.25 inches, which is standard for most impact drivers. However, it's important to note that this model is tool-only, meaning the battery is not included and must be purchased separately. The weight of the tool itself is reasonable, making it comfortable to handle for extended periods. This impact driver is well-suited for professionals or DIY enthusiasts who require a versatile and efficient tool for various fastening tasks. While the battery needs to be bought additionally, its powerful performance and smart features make it a valuable addition to any toolkit.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,357
Weight
Additional Features

Most important from
317 reviews

Weight
Smaller than expected, which is great for using inside existing framing with drywall.
Additional Features
The compact and feature-packed design makes it a versatile addition, allowing my 18V Makita drill to focus on drilling tasks while this impact driver handles fasteners.
#2

Makita XDT11Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Impact Driver, Tool Only

Rating
10.0
Torque

Most important from
1033 reviews

Torque
The torque difference between the brushless and brushed versions is noticeable, making this model particularly powerful.

The Makita XDT11Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Impact Driver is a robust and versatile tool designed for a range of fastening applications. With variable speeds up to 2,900 RPM and 3,500 IPM, and a torque rating of 1,460 in.lbs., it offers both power and precision. This makes it suitable for various tasks, from light-duty fastening to more demanding jobs.

The 4-pole motor with a 4-brush design enhances speed without compromising torque, ensuring efficient performance. The all-metal gear housing adds durability, making it a reliable choice for job site conditions. Weighing only 2.8 lbs. (with battery), it is lightweight, which helps reduce fatigue during extended use.

Its compact and ergonomic design, measuring just 5-3/8 inches in length, allows for easy maneuverability in tight spaces. The one-touch 1/4 inch hex chuck allows for quick bit changes, adding to its user-friendly features.

Rating
10.0
Torque

Most important from
1033 reviews

Torque
The torque difference between the brushless and brushed versions is noticeable, making this model particularly powerful.
#3

Makita XDT13Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Impact Driver, Tool Only,

Rating
9.9
Torque
Weight
Additional Features

Most important from
1275 reviews

Torque
This thing has some serious power. It zipped the lug nut right off my Silverado, which was torqued at 140 ft. lbs. Incredible!
Weight
Even with the larger battery, I didn't strain at all. It's lightweight, easy to use, and has a very comfortable grip.
Additional Features
Built well with a solid metal housing, no chuck wobble, and nice rubber over molds. It's just a great tool.

The Makita XDT13Z is a robust 18V impact driver that stands out due to its BL Brushless motor, which delivers a high torque of 1,500 inch-pounds. This makes it powerful enough for a variety of heavy-duty fastening tasks. The motor operates efficiently, providing variable speeds up to 3,400 RPM and 3,600 impacts per minute, which helps in adapting to different applications.

One notable advantage is the motor's design, which eliminates carbon brushes, allowing the tool to run cooler and last longer, optimizing battery energy for prolonged use. This can result in up to 50% longer run time per charge, an important feature for extensive projects. Weighing only 2.4 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight and easy to handle, enhancing user comfort during prolonged use.

However, it’s worth noting that the product is sold as a 'bare tool,' meaning the battery and charger are not included, which could be an additional cost if you don't already own compatible Makita batteries. The maximum chuck size is 10 millimeters, and while this is standard, it may not accommodate larger bits some users might require. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Makita XDT13Z's performance, efficiency, and durability make it a reliable choice for both professional and DIY enthusiasts looking for a high-quality impact driver.

Rating
9.9
Torque
Weight
Additional Features

Most important from
1275 reviews

Torque
This thing has some serious power. It zipped the lug nut right off my Silverado, which was torqued at 140 ft. lbs. Incredible!
Weight
Even with the larger battery, I didn't strain at all. It's lightweight, easy to use, and has a very comfortable grip.
Additional Features
Built well with a solid metal housing, no chuck wobble, and nice rubber over molds. It's just a great tool.

Buying Guide for the Best Makita Impact Drivers

Choosing the right impact driver can make a significant difference in your DIY projects or professional work. Impact drivers are powerful tools designed to drive screws and bolts with high torque and minimal effort. When selecting an impact driver, it's essential to consider various specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the key specs to look at and how to navigate them.
TorqueTorque is the force that the impact driver applies to turn an object, usually measured in inch-pounds (in-lbs) or Newton-meters (Nm). Higher torque means the driver can handle tougher jobs, such as driving large screws or bolts into hard materials. For light-duty tasks like assembling furniture, a lower torque (around 800-1,200 in-lbs) is sufficient. For more demanding tasks like construction or automotive work, look for higher torque (1,500 in-lbs and above). Choose based on the toughest job you expect to handle.
Speed (RPM)Speed, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), indicates how fast the driver can turn a screw or bolt. Higher speeds are useful for quickly driving screws into softer materials, while lower speeds provide more control for precision work. Impact drivers typically offer variable speed settings, ranging from 0-2,000 RPM for general use to 0-3,000 RPM for high-speed applications. Consider the types of materials and the precision required for your projects when choosing the speed range.
Impacts Per Minute (IPM)Impacts Per Minute (IPM) measures how many times the internal hammer strikes the anvil per minute, contributing to the tool's driving power. Higher IPM means the driver can handle tougher materials and more stubborn fasteners. For light to medium tasks, an IPM of around 2,000-3,000 is adequate. For heavy-duty applications, look for an IPM of 3,500 or higher. Match the IPM to the intensity of the work you plan to do.
Battery VoltageBattery voltage determines the power output of the impact driver. Common voltages are 12V, 18V, and 20V. A 12V impact driver is lighter and suitable for light-duty tasks and tight spaces. An 18V or 20V driver offers more power and is better for heavy-duty tasks. Consider the balance between power and weight, and choose a voltage that matches the intensity and duration of your work.
Battery Capacity (Ah)Battery capacity, measured in ampere-hours (Ah), indicates how long the battery will last on a single charge. Higher Ah means longer runtime. For occasional use, a 1.5-2.0 Ah battery may be sufficient. For extended or professional use, look for batteries with 3.0 Ah or higher. Choose based on how long you need the tool to run between charges.
WeightThe weight of the impact driver affects how comfortable it is to use, especially for extended periods. Lighter models (around 2-3 pounds) are easier to handle and reduce fatigue, making them ideal for overhead or repetitive tasks. Heavier models (4 pounds and above) may offer more power but can be tiring to use for long durations. Consider the balance between power and comfort based on the nature of your work.
Chuck SizeThe chuck size determines the maximum diameter of the bit that the impact driver can hold. Most impact drivers have a 1/4-inch hex chuck, which is standard for driving screws and small bolts. Some models may offer a 1/2-inch chuck for larger bits. Choose a chuck size that matches the types of bits you plan to use.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features like LED lights, brushless motors, and ergonomic grips can enhance the usability and efficiency of the impact driver. LED lights are useful for working in low-light conditions. Brushless motors offer better efficiency, longer runtime, and less maintenance. Ergonomic grips improve comfort and control. Consider which features will make your work easier and more efficient.

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