This post was written by Daniel Mrdjenovich. Follow him on Twitter or Google Plus.
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At Priceonomics, we like to take a smart and thoughtful approach to shopping. Before deciding on any item, new or used, we find it helpful to read reviews, compare different models, and set a target price range. Recently, we set out on a few DIY projects for the office involving standing desks. However, we didn’t have a clue of which drills are best suited for the job. Fortunately, our DIY projects landed great new workstations and a guide to the most popular drivers you might encounter. Enjoy!
Cordless Driver
This is perhaps the most commonly used drill. Cordless drivers offer the right degree of power and portability to get any job done around the house. These drills are designed to drill holes and drive screws into wood, metal, and drywall. As a result, a driver will certainly come in handy when tackling projects such as blind installation, furniture assembly, and deck building. When selecting a driver that’s best for you, pay special attention to power (a range from 12V to 24V), battery technology (lithium ion vs. nickel hydride), and speed (variable v. fixed). For more information, check out our cordless drills price guide.
Recommended:
Hitachi DS18DSAL – $90
Dewalt DCD760KL – $170
Hammer Drills
Image credit: ProToolsReviews.
If you’re looking to conquer projects involving concrete or brick, you’ll need something more powerful to get the job done. Hammer drills combine both drilling and short and rapid hammering motions to thrust objects into more brittle materials. Keep in mind that you can’t drive conventional nails or screws into concrete so you’ll need to buy a special tapcon screw.
Recommended:
Dewalt DCD970KL – $230
Cordless Screwdrivers:
This type of tool is nothing more than a battery-powered screwdriver. If you are looking for a quick and effortless solution to changing an outlet cover or addressing larger home improvement projects, make sure to invest in one. Interchangeable pieces also allow easy transition from Phillips to flat head screws.
Recommended:
Hitachi DB10DL – $82
Impact Drivers
Image credit: ProToolsReviews.
Think of an impact driver as your heavy duty cordless drill. It combines rotation and concussive blows to deliver three times as much torque as a cordless driver. This tool is best suited for driving screws and lag bolts into wood. Consider this drill for cabinet install, general construction projects, and heavier DIY tasks.
Recommended:
Dewalt DC927KL – $242
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