Get info about new reports and updates
Best cordless screwdriver
- Clutch
- Relatively quiet
- 10-year warranty
- Two Lithium-ion batteries
- Only for driving small screws
- Some reports of clutch problems
- Some complaints of fragile build
Reviewers recommend the 3.6-volt Hitachi DB3DL Lithium-ion (Li-ion) cordless screwdriver for small fasteners, praising its comfort and performance. Unusual among tiny screwdrivers, the Hitachi has a clutch to adjust the torque so you don't strip screw heads. Also, most pocket screwdrivers have to be plugged in to recharge, but the Hitachi DB3DL comes with two removable batteries. Though this tool is designed for driving small screws, a few owners drill small holes with it. The warranty is for 10 years, another plus -- especially because some owners report quality control or durability problems with the clutch. For a budget pick that you have to plug in to recharge, reviewers also recommend the Skil 2346-05 iXO3 (Discontinued), though it comes with a two-year warranty.
We found three comparison tests of the Hitachi DB3DL cordless screwdriver, all done in 2007. ConsumerReports.org compares it with seven other models, with numerical ratings for six factors. Popular Mechanics tests nine cordless screwdrivers, with a less formal testing procedure but with more details. Wired compares just four models, with fewer details but clear rankings. Another 2007 review, at Tools of the Trade, covers all the Li-ion cordless tools available at the time, including the Hitachi DB3DL. Hitachi as a brand is also included in the 2008 J.D. Power and Associates survey of cordless-drill customers, and we found detailed owner-written reviews of this Hitachi cordless screwdriver at Amazon.com and ToolBarn.com.
| Hitachi DB3DL 3.6-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Screwdriver | |
(120 reviews) In Stock. |
|
Our Sources
1. ConsumerReports.org
This review compares the Hitachi DB3DL cordless screwdriver with six other models, as part of a larger report on cordless drills. Based at least partly on earlier tests published in December 2007, each screwdriver gets separate ratings for speed, power, runtime, battery-charging time, noise and ease of handling. Some owners also rate and review the Hitachi DB3DL here.
Review: Cordless Drill Ratings, May 2010
This review of nine cordless screwdrivers gives the Hitachi DB3DL top ranking, based on tests of drilling holes, driving screws of various sizes, and overall comfort and ease of use. Minor drawbacks include an inconveniently placed trigger and a body hinge with too much give.
Review: Balance of Power: Best Cordless Screwdrivers: Comparison Test, Roy Berendsohn, June 2007
3. Wired
The Hitachi DB3DL ranks second to the Bosch PS10-2 I-Driver in this Wired review of four cordless screwdrivers, but it costs less. Testers find it capable and comfortable, with a good LED light, but they find the side-mounted trigger hard to reach and the speed-selector switch hard to keep in gear.
Review: Cordless Screwdrivers: Licensed to Drive, Chuck Cage, May 22, 2007
This Tools of the Trade overview recommends the Hitachi DB3DL cordless screwdriver for light tasks such as installing cabinet hinges and switch-plate covers. The review also praises the clutch, two speeds and flexible folding handle. Rick Schwolsky and Michael Springer say the lower handle could be longer, with more overmolding.
Review: Lithium-Ion Hands On, Rick Schwolsky and Michael Springer, Jan. 17, 2007
Hitachi ranks eighth in this 2010 survey of consumers who've bought a cordless drill in the past year -- sinking from third place in the 2009 survey. Hitachi still ranks above the industry average and is rated "better than most." The rankings are based on six factors, with drill performance most important, followed by ease of use, battery performance, price, versatility of battery system and warranty.
Review: 2010 Cordless Drill/Driver Satisfaction Study, Editors of J.D. Power and Associates, June 2, 2010
This 2007 survey of 3,428 builders and contractors ranks Hitachi eighth out of 15 brands that make cordless drills -- right in the middle of the pack.
Review: 2008 Builder Brand Study, Hanley Wood, 2008
7. Amazon.com
About 75 owners review the Hitachi DB3DL cordless screwdriver at Amazon.com, giving it a high average rating. Owners say it's convenient, comfortable and capable, but about 11 percent report eventual problems with the clutch, and a few say the chuck is hard to tighten on bits.
Review: Hitachi DB3DL 3.6-Volt Lithium-ion Cordless Screwdriver, Contributors to Amazon.com