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10 Best Makita Impact Drivers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Makita XDT14T 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Quick-Shift Mode™ 3-Speed Impact Driver Kit (5.0Ah)

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,279
Additional Features

Most important from
776 reviews

Additional Features
Faster and stronger than previous models, with added features making it even more versatile.

The Makita XDT14T 18V LXT Impact Driver is a high-performance tool designed for those who need reliable and efficient fastening. One of its standout features is the Quick-Shift Mode, which automatically adjusts the speed and torque for optimal performance, making your work smoother and more efficient. It also offers a Tightening Mode (T-mode) that helps protect your screws and workpieces from damage during fastening, which is particularly useful for self-drilling screws.

With a 3-speed power selection switch, you can choose the right speed and impact per minute for a variety of applications, providing you with precise control over your tasks. The brushless motor is a significant advantage, delivering a maximum speed of 3,600 RPM and a hefty 1,550 in.lbs of torque. This motor is also designed to be energy efficient, offering up to 50% longer run time per battery charge, which is excellent for prolonged use without frequent recharges.

The driver is powered by an 18V battery and comes with a 5.0Ah capacity, ensuring you have enough power for demanding jobs. The additional features like the 3-speed settings and electronic controls make this impact driver a versatile and powerful tool suited for both professional and DIY applications.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,279
Additional Features

Most important from
776 reviews

Additional Features
Faster and stronger than previous models, with added features making it even more versatile.
#2

Makita XLT01 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Angle Impact Driver Kit

Rating
9.6
Torque
Weight

Most important from
537 reviews

Torque
The lack of torque settings requires careful handling, but the control and precision it offers are unmatched.
Weight
Despite its heft, the extra weight actually aids in driving screws more effectively when gripped correctly.

The Makita XLT01 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Angle Impact Driver Kit is designed for tasks that require fastening in tight spaces. It boasts a robust torque of 530 in.lbs., making it suitable for heavy-duty applications. The variable speed settings (0-2,000 RPM & 0-3,000 IPM) allow versatility for different fastening needs, ensuring it can handle a range of projects effectively.

The compact 2-1/8" angle head height is a standout feature, providing ease of use in confined areas, which is great for professionals working in construction or renovation where space is limited. A large paddle switch with a soft grip enhances comfort during prolonged use, reducing hand fatigue. This tool runs on an 18V lithium-ion battery, which is included in the kit, and provides a good balance of power and battery life, though the amperage is relatively low at 1 Amp.

The chuck size is 10 millimeters, which should suffice for most fastening tasks, though it may limit the use of larger bits. One downside is the weight of the tool, at 11.8 pounds, which may be cumbersome for extended use or for users who need a lightweight tool. Additional features such as the reinforced composite material add to the durability of the impact driver. It comes with a 3-year limited warranty, which is reassuring for long-term use.

Rating
9.6
Torque
Weight

Most important from
537 reviews

Torque
The lack of torque settings requires careful handling, but the control and precision it offers are unmatched.
Weight
Despite its heft, the extra weight actually aids in driving screws more effectively when gripped correctly.
#3

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

Rating
9.4
Torque

Most important from
1003 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
9.4
Torque

Most important from
1003 reviews

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

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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