Impact driver vs impact wrench: Which tool do you need?

Are you tired of stripping screws or struggling with stubborn bolts? If you've ever struggled with these common DIY headaches, you're not alone. Many enthusiasts and even professionals face the dilemma of choosing the right power tool for their needs.

Understanding the differences between an impact driver vs impact wrench can be the game-changer for your tool collection. This guide will dive into the specifics of each power tool and help you decide which one suits your projects best. Whether you’re assembling furniture, working on your car, or tackling home repair tasks, picking the right tool can save you time and a lot of frustration.

What is an impact driver?

An impact driver is a power tool that's specifically designed to drive screws and bolts with a lot of torque and precision. It’s commonly used for tasks like assembling furniture, installing cabinets, or even building a deck. It’s a go-to tool for anyone who needs to drive a lot of screws quickly and with less effort.

When comparing an impact driver vs drill, you'll notice that the impact driver is smaller, more comfortable to use, and packed with power. It also uses quick, powerful bursts of rotational force to get the job done. This makes it perfect for driving long screws or bolts into tough materials without stripping them.

What is an impact wrench?

An impact wrench, sometimes called an impact torque wrench, is a powerful tool designed for loosening and tightening nuts and bolts with ease. This tool is perfect for heavy-duty tasks, like changing tyres, working on heavy machinery, or  removing a stubborn lug nut from your car's wheel.

You'll also find that an impact wrench is bulkier compared to other power hand tools, but it's designed to deliver that extra muscle when you need it most.

Impact wrench vs impact driver: Which is more suitable for your assembly project?

When deciding between an impact driver or impact wrench for your handyman and assembly projects, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. Luckily, this guide will break them down so you can make the best choice.

In terms of power

An impact driver drill may be small in size, but it delivers bursts of torque that make it incredibly efficient for driving screws into tough materials without wearing you out.

On the other hand, an impact wrench offers more torque for those heavy-duty tasks like loosening rusted bolts. While an impact driver offers more versatility and speed, an impact wrench provides greater sheer force.

For jobs like car repairs or machinery maintenance, where high torque is crucial, the impact wrench is the most ideal tool to use. However, for everyday assembly tasks, the compact impact driver gets the job done effectively without the extra bulk. 

In terms of speed

Speed sets these two tools apart just as much as power. When you're faced with high-volume tasks that require repetitive screwing, like building a deck or assembling furniture, the rapid-fire action of an impact driver will be better. It allows you to drive screws in seconds, boosting your productivity significantly. 

An impact wrench isn't sluggish by any means, but its focus is more on torque than speed. Still, it can get those rusted bolts spun off faster than you would be able to manually.

In terms of size and weight

When it comes to manoeuvrability, size and weight are key factors. This is where the impact driver has an edge. Lightweight and compact, it's perfect for tight spaces where an impact wrench would be too much. You’ll find that using an impact driver for screws in confined areas is a breeze compared to carrying around a heavier tool.

On the other hand, an impact wrench's larger size and extra heft mean it’s designed for more demanding tasks. Though it may feel bulky, the added weight provides stability and reduces the strain on your hand during prolonged use. 

In terms of power source

The difference between an impact driver and an impact wrench extends to their power sources. Most impact drivers are battery-operated, which makes them flexible and highly portable. You can move around your worksite easily, without having to worry about tripping over cords or locating a power outlet.

Impact wrenches, on the other hand, come in both corded and cordless varieties, each having its unique advantages. Corded impact wrenches provide consistent power and are ideal for intense tasks where you need high torque. However, you're restricted by the length of your extension cord, which can be a hassle in large workspaces.

Cordless impact wrenches offer the same mobility as impact drivers but usually have a shorter battery life because they consume more power. Make sure to have spare batteries handy if you’re working overtime on a project. 

Regardless of what you use, though, working with electrically powered equipment requires strict adherence to safety protocols to avoid accidents. Always wear the proper safety gear, like gloves and safety glasses, to protect yourself from flying debris. While working with corded tools, keep the cables out of your path to prevent trips and falls. 

In terms of specific handyman and assembly projects

An impact driver often serves best for tasks involving woodwork and smaller screws. If you’re building a shed, for instance, an impact driver’s lighter weight and flexibility make it easy to move around tight spots.

For more heavy-duty tasks like car repairs, an automotive impact wrench is your go-to tool. It delivers the high torque needed to loosen stubborn bolts and nuts without requiring manual effort. This makes it particularly useful for repairing vehicle suspensions.

These power tools can also be used for certain disassembly tasks. If you're tearing down lighter structures like bed frames, an impact driver can make the job faster and easier. Meanwhile, for heavier objects like engine blocks, an impact wrench is more suitable. 

In terms of cost

When comparing the price of an impact driver versus an impact wrench, you’ll find a wide range in both categories. An impact driver typically costs between £50 to £250 on average, depending on the model and its features. On the other hand, mid-range impact wrenches range from £150 to £300, making them generally more expensive.

Low-end impact drivers cost between £25 to £50 and offer basic functionalities. Conversely, low-end impact wrenches cost between £65 to £150 and cater to lighter automotive projects. Though both are affordable, the impact wrench still tends to be pricier at the entry-level.

Premium impact drivers can reach up to £950 and are loaded with advanced features like brushless motors and multiple speed settings. Meanwhile, high-end impact wrenches push the upper limit to £2,275 and are designed for heavy-duty industrial use. 

Get expert help for your handyman and assembly projects with Airtasker

Picking between an impact driver and an impact wrench really boils down to what you need it for. For intricate tasks around the house or even light carpentry, an impact driver is your go-to tool. But if you're dealing with high-torque jobs like automotive repairs, an impact wrench should be your choice.

Regardless of the tool you choose, don't forget you’re not alone in your handyman or assembly projects. With the Airtasker platform, you can easily post a task and find professional handymen and assemblers  who are ready to lend a helping hand.