Question 1

What's the difference between a power screwdriver and an impact driver?

Accepted Answer

A power screwdriver uses rotational force only, making it versatile for drilling and general screwdriving. An impact driver adds rapid concussive blows alongside the rotation, delivering far higher effective torque — typically 150–200 Nm versus 40–80 Nm on a standard drill. The practical result is that impact drivers drive large screws and bolts much faster, with far less risk of cam-out (the bit slipping out of the fastener head). The trade-off is that impact drivers are noisier, less precise for delicate work, and not suitable for drilling into masonry.

Question 2

Is an 18V tool always better than a 12V model?

Accepted Answer

Not always — it depends entirely on the job. 18V tools deliver more torque and longer runtime, making them the right choice for heavy fastening, structural work, and full days on site. 12V tools are lighter, more compact, and easier to handle in tight spaces or overhead — and for most domestic tasks, their power output is perfectly sufficient. The Bosch GSB 12V-15 Professional, for example, handles the vast majority of household jobs without issue. If portability and reduced fatigue matter more than raw power, 12V is a legitimate choice, not a compromise.

Question 3

Should I buy a brushless impact driver in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you're spending above 110 £, there's very little reason to accept a brushed motor. Brushless motors are 20–30% more efficient, run cooler, last significantly longer, and deliver more consistent power throughout the battery's discharge cycle. The price premium over brushed equivalents has narrowed considerably, and the long-term savings in battery life and tool longevity make brushless the sensible default for anyone buying a tool they intend to use regularly.

Question 4

Can I use my existing Bosch batteries with a new Bosch impact driver?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the battery platform. Bosch runs two separate 18V systems — the blue Professional range and the green DIY range — and their batteries are not cross-compatible despite sharing the same voltage. Within each range, however, compatibility is broad: a Bosch 18V Professional battery will work across the GSR, GSB, GDR, and GDS series, as well as angle grinders, rotary hammers, and other Professional tools. Always check the specific battery platform before buying a bare tool.

Question 5

What torque do I need for driving screws into hardwood?

Accepted Answer

For hardwood, aim for at least 60–80 Nm of torque for a standard power screwdriver, or choose an impact driver where the impact mechanism effectively multiplies the driving force well beyond the headline Nm figure. Driving 100mm structural screws into oak or hardwood decking with a 40 Nm brushed drill will stall the motor and strip the screw head. An 18V brushless combi drill at 80+ Nm, or any decent impact driver, handles this comfortably. Pre-drilling a pilot hole also makes a significant difference with dense materials.

Question 6

Are cheap impact drivers worth buying, or should I avoid them?

Accepted Answer

Budget impact drivers under 73 £ are worth avoiding for anything beyond very occasional use. The core issue isn't just power — it's the impact mechanism itself. Cheap tools often use lower-quality steel in the anvil and hammer, which wears rapidly under sustained use, reducing impact effectiveness and eventually failing altogether. The clutch settings are also typically coarser, making it easy to overdrive screws. For occasional flat-pack assembly, a budget cordless screwdriver is fine. For anything more demanding, the step up to a mid-range brushless model is money well spent.

Question 7

What does IP54 mean on a power tool, and does it matter?

Accepted Answer

IP54 means the tool is protected against dust ingress (rated 5 out of 6) and splash water from any direction (rated 4 out of 8). In practical terms, it means the tool can handle dusty job sites and light rain without the motor or electronics being damaged. For professional use outdoors or in construction environments, IP54 or better is genuinely useful. For home DIY use in a garage or workshop, it's a nice-to-have rather than essential. Most budget tools carry no IP rating at all — fine for dry indoor use, but worth noting if you work in less controlled conditions.

Power Screwdrivers & Impact Drivers Price Comparison

Bosch GDR 18V-200 Professional

Bosch GDX 18V-200 Professional

Bosch GSB 18V-55 Professional

Yato YT-09511 power screwdriver/impact driver

Bosch GSB 12V-35 Professional

Power Screwdrivers & Impact Drivers Price Comparison