What is the Best Value Impact Driver? The DAB Team Discuss

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/4" Hex Impact Driver

Value 
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL hits hard with 2,000 in-lbs of torque and a rapid 3,900 RPM. A monster when tackling for heavy-duty jobs. Phil dented his wallet and went for one of these and its been the most impressive impact driver we have had around the workshop and the brushless motor means you you get unrivalled longevity. It has been to hell and back and is still in phenomenal working order.

• Pros: Powerful, Great Lifespan, Ergonomic. Excels at everything.
• Cons: The price is the only negative about this driver. Everything else is superb. 

Verdict:
Great for professionals or heavy-duty work. Overkill for a DIY man but if you insist on looking the part and money is no issue, go ahead. It would be my first investment if I ever switched to Milwaukee.

2. Makita DTD152Z Impact Driver

Value for Money:
The Makita DTD152Z is the sweet spot between reliability and price, pumping 165 Nm of torque and 2,900 RPM. Its low key and easy to handle, it’s perfect for tradespeople who need power and endurance but also for DIY champions who want a great tool without breaking the bank. We scored it very good on everything!

• Pros: Affordable with great performance. My personal option, it has never failed me and when it does it wont cost me a weeks wage to replace.
• Cons: Be careful. A few fakes flying around. Buy from a refutable seller like Amazon or Toolden

Verdict:
Great quality and great price for DIY jobs and site work. Excellent value

3. Ryobi R18ID2-120SZ 18V ONE+ Impact Driver

Value for Money:
The Ryobi R18ID2-120SZ is a legend in the workshop and after being gifted to us and has served as a solid back up when we have an extra pair of hands and it has gone through way more abuse than we expected it to. At 160 Nm of torque and 2,900 RPM it holds its own and doesn't feel out of place in our when we are using it for various jobs.

• Pros: Budget-friendly. Will do nearly any job a DIY craftsman would need it for and most that a tradesman would need it for.
• Cons: Lower torque, brushed motor

Verdict: For regular DIY work this drill represents incredible value for money.

Best Value for Money You Ask?

Teams Verdict:

• Best all round: Makita DTD152Z – Great balance of price and performance for light construction. Despite slightly higher capabilities and durability on the Milwaukee M18 Fuel, this Makita is our winner due to its professional qualities and DIY price. We say its the best value impact driver on the market.

Special Mentions:

• DeWalt DCF887N XR Impact Driver:  Comes in at 4th. Great power and value for pros. Could have finished higher if it wasn't up against against some legendary kit.
• Bosch GDR 18V-160: At 5th place we have this cool, compact and efficient drill, perfect for general house work and solid price. My dad owns one and has been running it for years and pushing it to the max. Bosch prices are reasonable too.

Final Thoughts:

If you're on a budget and not needed primarily for work, the Ryobi R18ID2-120SZ is the best choice. For a more durable and powerful tool, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL is your baby. The Makita DTD152Z is nearly as capable as the Milwaukee and nearly as affordable as the Ryobi. There is a reason Makita tools are everywhere on sites up and down the country and is why they are our primary tool supplier.