The 3 best impact drivers🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Methodology v1.0.0 · computed 13 Jun 2026 · how we rank · AI-drafted, pending editor review
Impact drivers deliver rotational hammering bursts that drive long screws and bolts with far less effort than a standard drill. The best ones combine high torque, a compact body and good control with reliable battery performance. Our top 3 are scored from aggregated UK reviews.
1Best Overall
Makita DTD156Z 18V LXT Impact Driver
Makita
Medium confidence · 2 sourcesNarrow win — +2.3 pts over #2
93.6
/ 100 · n=112
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What to look for in impact drivers
- •Maximum torque and impact rate for driving long fixings
- •Battery voltage, capacity and runtime per charge
- •Size, weight and quarter-inch hex chuck compatibility
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between an impact driver and a combi drill?
- An impact driver uses rotational impacts to drive fixings and lacks a keyed chuck, so it takes hex bits only. A combi drill is more versatile for drilling holes.
- Can I drill holes with an impact driver?
- Yes, using hex-shanked drill bits, but it lacks fine clutch control. For precise or large holes a drill driver or combi drill is generally better suited.
- Do I need an impact driver as well as a drill?
- Not essential, but it makes driving long or large screws much easier and reduces wrist strain. Many buyers own both for different tasks.