Cordless Screwdrivers Review

Comparing cordless screwdrivers to cordless drill/drivers

Cordless screwdrivers can take most of the effort out of driving screws. Newer models use lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, which hold their charge for months between uses, and they're always ready for a quick job. The hex-shank bit-holder chucks used on cordless screwdrivers give these tools some advantages over regular cordless drill/drivers. Switching bits is faster, and the chucks are more compact, so it's easier to work in tight spaces. If you need to drill lots of holes in addition to driving screws, however, we have a separate report on cordless drills, which are generally more expensive then cordless screwdrivers.

ConsumerReports.org tests cordless screwdrivers, ranking seven models based on objective tests of speed, power and run time between battery charges -- as well as ratings for charging time, handling, and noise. However, the models covered aren't comparable in voltage. For more detail plus evaluations of more powerful cordless screwdrivers, we found excellent comparison tests in two publications for professional builders: Tools of the Trade and the Journal of Light Construction. Popular Mechanics provides head-to-head tests of smaller screwdrivers. Fine Woodworking and several other woodworking publications provide expert reviews, and owner-written reviews at Amazon.com and other retail websites help evaluate performance and durability over a longer period of use.

Warranties on cordless Li-ion screwdrivers and subcompact drivers range from one year (on Bosch models, for example) to five years for Milwaukee and 10 years for Hitachi screwdrivers. Charging time also spans a wide range, from three hours or more for Skil palm drivers to 30 minutes for quick-charging models. Specifications fall short of telling the whole story, however. Comparison tests show that cordless screwdrivers of comparable voltage vary in power and run time, and some Li-ion batteries -- notably those on Bosch cordless screwdrivers -- don't perform well after exposure to subfreezing temperatures (in general, it's better not to store these tools in an unheated garage).

As a brand, Milwaukee has taken the lead in surveys of consumers (at J.D. Power and Associates) and of builders (at Builder magazine). Though Bosch and its budget brand, Skil, originated the subcompact pocket driver and tiny palm driver styles, other manufacturers are competing successfully with more powerful, convenient and comfortable models. Experts note, though, that a cordless screwdriver that fits one user's hand in perfect comfort may not feel quite right to another individual. For more guidance on how to choose a model, see our What To Look For section.