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Panasonic EY7540LN2L

*Est. $310

Reviewed

November 2010

Pros

Ideal for big fastening jobs
Lithium-ion batteries
Comes with work light
Comfortable to use for long projects

Cons

Expensive
Could be more durable
Battery meter isn't very precise

Where to Buy

for $309.99

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The 14.4-volt lithium-ion (Li-ion) Panasonic EY7540LN2L cordless impact driver -- which comes in a kit with a light -- scores well as a runner-up in comparison tests, with praise for both comfort and performance. This is a pro-level, high-end cordless impact driver, but it's also suited for homeowner duty since Li-ion batteries keep their charge well between uses. The brushless-motor Panasonic impact driver has three speed ranges, with variable speed in each -- for excellent control. This isn't the most powerful model available, but reviewers say it can handle tasks ranging from small delicate screws to huge six-inch lag bolts. The three-speed 18-volt Makita BTD144 (*Est. $335) is more powerful, yet lighter and earns higher ranking overall.

The most recent comparison tests cover either lighter or heavier impact drivers, but the July 2008 issue of Fine Homebuilding compares full-size Li-ion cordless impact drivers, summarized in Taunton's 2009 Tool Guide with the addition of results from its annual survey of readers. ConsumerReports.org tests even more models, ranking and rating each one but explaining the results in less detail. The Panasonic EY7540LN2L gets an even more detailed review at the Journal of Light Construction, but isn't included in its excellent comparison tests. Tools of the Trade provides less detail, but compares it with other Li-ion impact drivers. Owner-written reviews at Amazon.com identify a few drawbacks.

Where To Buy

Panasonic EY7540LN2L 14.4 Volt Li-ion Impact Driver Kit with Light

(4 reviews)
Buy new: $386.00 $309.99 1 New from $309.99

In Stock.

Our Sources

1. Taunton's 2009 Tool Guide

The Panasonic EY7540LN2L earns top ranking after a professional designer/builder tests 12 cordless Li-ion impact drivers on the job for several months. The Panasonic's weight is heavy enough not to vibrate too much, but light enough for comfort on long jobs. The variable speed control is another plus. A survey of readers of Fine Homebuilding and Fine Woodworking also rates the Panasonic at the top.

Review: Cordless Impact Drivers, Michael Maines, Nov. 2008

2. ConsumerReports.orgDetails/Subscribe

ConsumerReports.org compares the same impact driver without the light -- the Panasonic EY7540LN2S -- with 12 other cordless impact drivers in this thorough review. All 13 impact drivers are put through a set of objective tests, then ranked based on ratings for speed, power, battery life and other factors. A few readers add their own comments as well.

Review: Cordless Drill Ratings, 2008, updated in 2010

3. Tools of the Trade

The Panasonic EY7540LN2L ranks second among 11 impact drivers compared here, based both on objective tests and on field use on construction jobs. All the testers prefer the smaller but 18-volt Makita BTD142HW, which boasts a 15-minute charger; the Panasonic is a bit bigger and heavier, and the charger takes 50 minutes.

Review: Cordless Impact Drivers, Gary Katz, May 2008

4. Journal of Light Construction

The Journal of Light Construction tests the Panasonic EY7540 cordless impact driver, driving 3/8-inch lag screws that are 6 inches long, finding that the driver sinks them without causing any discomfort to the wrist. Detailed performance tests and comparisons to other models are included. The Panasonic isn't included in later comparison tests here.

Review: Toolbox: Panasonic Lithium-Ion Cordless Drivers, Andy Beasley, May 2007

5. BuilderOnline.org

Panasonic ranks close to the bottom in this 2007 survey of 3,428 builders and contractors -- with only Ryobi ranked lower.

Review: 2008 Builder Brand Study, Hanley Wood, 2008

6. Amazon.com

The handful of owners reviewing the 14.4-volt Panasonic impact driver here praise its light weight and good control, but one notes that the handle didn't survive a fall. Nearly a dozen owners provide mostly positive reviews of the well-priced Panasonic EYC142B kit that adds a drill.

Review: Panasonic EY7540LN2L 14.4 Volt Li-ion Impact Driver Kit with Light, Contributors to Amazon.com

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