10 Best Electric Screwdriver [Buyer Guide] 

Summary

This part of the buyer guide lets you know exactly what you should consider before you buy, just like we did for leaf blowers, pole hedge trimmers, dust extractors and telescopic ladders. So, after you’ve read all of the reviews – we hope you’ve found an electric screwdriver that’s taken your fancy. However, if you’re still not sold, we’ve included some important buyer considerations here in this summary section. These are things to keep in mind before you commit to your purchase and buy.

Types

First off, there’s two different types of electric screwdriver. Both an ordinary electric screwdriver, and an impact electric screwdriver. The main difference is down to power, as an impact screwdriver apply an additional (percussive) force (a bit like a hammer drill) which helps to drive screws faster and into denser materials. We recommend going for a standard electric screwdriver if you’re just wanting it for around the house tasks, but if you’re needing something with more force – or you’re looking to use it on a slightly more professional level, then an impact screwdriver is for you!

Ease of Use

With most things in life, it’s a whole lot easier if things aren’t difficult to use. However, this is even more true when it comes to tools! When you’re about to buy your new electric screwdriver, it’s important to keep in mind whether it will be easy for you to use. All of the screwdrivers that we’ve featured in this buyer guide has been made with you in mind by making sure that they’re easy to use – so you can get straight into the task that needs doing. Electric screwdrivers are made with the thought of making your life easier in general, so they shouldn’t be difficult to use – otherwise that just defeats the object! Look for one that has  forward/reverse operation that has been designed with ease of use in mind as this allows for easy switching between the two.

Battery Life

A lot of the electric screwdrivers that we’ve featured in this guide are battery powered. When any tool is battery powered, you will need to consider how great the battery life is. You don’t want to be using a tool and it die in the middle of a task! To avoid that happening, you should get a screwdriver that has a powerful battery, but stays charged for a long time. A top tip is to look out for the screwdriver’s ampere hours. The ampere hour (Ah) rating of your electric screwdriver will have a direct impact on the tool’s battery life. The higher the rating, the longer the battery will last. So, in short, if you’re looking at a product description of your potential new screwdriver, look out for the ampere hours.

Weight

If you’re planning on using your electric screwdriver for long periods of time – you should ideally go for something that is lightweight. This will ensure that the screwdriver that is comfortable to use and your hands won’t be aching. If you’re planning on using your new electric screwdriver for flat-pack tasks or larger jobs, we definitely recommend going for a lightweight alternative. Your hands won’t be sorry!

FAQ

What is the difference between an electric screwdriver and a drill?

Perhaps the most common question about electric screwdrivers, is how do drills differ from them. We briefly touched upon it in our introduction, however, there are a couple more points that we should add. So first off, the main difference is the actual power of the motor. Because electric screwdrivers don’t need as much force to drive screws in, they often have a lower powered motor. This slower speed is actually important for the precision of the screwdriver, too. If it’s too powerful, it can actually make it a whole lot more difficult to drive a screw into any surface.

Other than the speed and power of the motor, another difference would be that a screwdriver, whether manual or powered, can drive a screw only so far into a surface. That’s because its main function is to secure loose screws in their place. Its best for small scale projects like fixing door hinges and tightening screws in windowsills, whereas a drill is great for all sorts of other sorts of jobs that require a bit more power.

Can I use a drill as a screwdriver?

Yes, you can. However you will compromise on precision. Something to definitely keep in mind if you’re looking to expand your tool collection!

How do I use an electric screwdriver?

We’ve included a youtube video here showing you exactly how it’s done. We hope this helps!

Are electric screwdrivers safe to use?

Though power screwdrivers are pretty much very safe to use, there are still a couple of precautions you should take to ensure you can perform the job at hand safely:

1. Buy your screwdriver from a reputable seller, and always read the instruction manual so you know exactly how to use it properly.
2. Register your new electric screwdriver with the manufacturer so that you can be contacted if a safety notice or recall is required.
3. Check that your appliance has a UK plug. If it doesn’t, you shouldn’t use a UK travel plug.
4. Regularly check the plug and socket for burn marks, sounds of buzzing, or if it feels too hot to touch.
5. If you’re using a screwdriver that connects to the mains, you should make sure the cord is long enough to reach the area you’re working in before you get started. If it’s too short, use a fully unwound extension cable.
6. Make sure you select the right size bit for the screw in question.
7. Make sure the bit is securely placed within the screw you’re using.
8. Apply firm and steady pressure.
9. When removing screws, it’s a good idea to select the highest torque setting.
10. Make sure you unplug corded screwdrivers before removing/inserting a new drill bit.
11. If your screwdriver is battery powered, when you’re not using the charger – be sure to unplug it and store it safely.

Further Reading

Here we’ve included some further reading for you to research further if you’re still wanting more!