What's the difference between an electric screwdriver and an impact screwdriver?
Comparison of an electric screwdriver, impact screwdriver, and impact wrench
| Electric screwdriver | Impact screwdriver | |
|---|---|---|
| Type DIYer | Occasional handyman | Devoted DIYer and professional |
| Suitable for | Small, slim screws | Large, wide screws |
| Example of a job | Assemble a closet with screws | Perform longterm, heavy screwdriving |
Which machine is suitable for your situation?
Electric screwdriver: light jobs
A electric screwdriver is a screwdriver with a motor, and it's suitable for small and light screws. Thanks to the slip clutch, the machine prevents the screw from going too far into the material. This allows you to use the electric screwdriver for precise jobs and sensitive materials, like plastic. Think about assembling furniture or hanging a photo frame on the wall.
Impact screwdriver: intensive jobs
An impact screwdriver is much more powerful than a regular electric screwdriver. This allows you to use it for a longer time back to back and to get started with large, wide screws. Because the power isn't provided by the motor but by the head of the screwdriver, the motor won't overload soon and uses less power. This means you can use it for a longer time than a regular drill.
