We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Impact Wrenches 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8 score

Milwaukee 2967-20 M18 FUEL™ 1/2" High Torque Impact Wrench w/ Friction Ring (Tool Only)

Torque: 1,100 ft-lbs fastening, 1,600 ft-lbs nut-busting
Drive Size: 1/2"
Power Source: Battery
Weight and Ergonomics: 5.94 pounds, 7.6 inches length
Additional Features: AUTO SHUT-OFF, Bolt Removal Control Mode 4

Chosen by 1330 this week

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Impact Wrench, 1/2 in., Bare Tool Only (DCF900B)

Torque: 1030 ft-lbs fastening, 1400 ft-lbs breakaway
Drive Size: 1/2 inch
Power Source: Battery Powered
Speed: 4-mode speed, variable speed trigger
Weight and Ergonomics: 7 pounds, ergonomic design
Additional Features: Precision Wrench, BATTERYGUARD, LED light

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Impact Wrench, 1/2" Hog Ring, High Torque, Brushless, Bare Tool Only (DCF961B)

Torque: 1200 ft-lbs fastening, 1750 ft-lbs breakaway
Drive Size: 1/2 inch
Power Source: 20V lithium battery
Speed: Three speed settings
Weight and Ergonomics: 8.4 pounds
Additional Features: Precision wrench mode, LED light

Milwaukee 2962-20 M18 18V Fuel 1/2" Mid-torque Impact Wrench with Friction Ring

Torque: 35 Foot Pounds
Drive Size: 1/2"
Power Source: Battery Powered
Weight and Ergonomics: 4.03 Pounds
Additional Features: Friction ring, Tri-LEDs, Auto shut-off

Milwaukee 2855-20 18V Brushless Cordless 1/2" Impact Wrench with Friction Ring

Torque: 250 ft./lbs.
Drive Size: 1/2"
Power Source: Cordless
Weight and Ergonomics: 2.4 pounds, 4.9 inches length
Additional Features: Auto shut-off, Bolt-removal, Tri-LEDs

Makita XWT08Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless High-Torque 1/2" Sq. Drive Impact Wrench, Tool Only

Torque: 740 ft.lbs. fastening, 1,180 ft.lbs. nut-busting
Drive Size: 1/2 inch
Power Source: 18V lithium-ion battery
Speed: 1,800 RPM, 2,200 IPM
Weight and Ergonomics: 7 pounds, quick socket changes, brushless motor
Additional Features: 3-year warranty, 3-speed power switch

Milwaukee 2864-20 Fuel One-Key 3/4" High Torque Impact (Bare)

Drive Size: 3/4"
Power Source: Battery
Weight and Ergonomics: 7 Pounds, well-balanced design
Additional Features: One-Key technology
How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Milwaukee 2967-20 M18 FUEL™ 1/2" High Torque Impact Wrench w/ Friction Ring (Tool Only)

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,330
Torque
Speed
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
951 reviews

Torque
The adjustable speed and torque settings are surprisingly useful, enhancing control for various applications.
Speed
The adjustable speed and torque settings are surprisingly useful, enhancing control for various applications.
Weight and Ergonomics
Despite its compact size, the tool feels quite heavy, comparable to holding a gold brick.
Additional Features
Incredible power for its compact size, easily handling stubborn bolts and heavy-duty tasks.

The Milwaukee 2967-20 M18 FUEL 1/2" High Torque Impact Wrench is a powerful tool designed for users requiring high torque capabilities in their tasks. With an impressive torque output of up to 1,100 ft-lbs for fastening and 1,600 ft-lbs for nut-busting, it excels in heavy-duty applications. The brushless motor contributes to its efficiency and longevity, making it a reliable choice for both professionals and serious DIYers. Weighing in at 5.94 pounds and measuring 7.6 inches in length, it strikes a balance between power and portability, although some users might find it slightly heavier compared to non-brushless alternatives.

One of the standout features is the AUTO SHUT-OFF control, which limits torque to 50 ft-lbs for hand-tight fastening. This helps prevent overtightening, making it suitable for delicate tasks where precision is key. Additionally, the Bolt Removal Control in Mode 4 enhances usability by allowing full torque output initially, then reducing RPMs after loosening the bolt to prevent fastener drops, which can be a real convenience on the job.

This product is sold as a tool only, meaning it does not come with batteries or a charger. This could be a downside for users who don’t already own compatible Milwaukee batteries. Also, while the weight and ergonomic design are manageable for most, those with smaller hands or less upper body strength might struggle during prolonged use.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,330
Torque
Speed
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
951 reviews

Torque
The adjustable speed and torque settings are surprisingly useful, enhancing control for various applications.
Speed
The adjustable speed and torque settings are surprisingly useful, enhancing control for various applications.
Weight and Ergonomics
Despite its compact size, the tool feels quite heavy, comparable to holding a gold brick.
Additional Features
Incredible power for its compact size, easily handling stubborn bolts and heavy-duty tasks.
#2

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Impact Wrench, 1/2 in., Bare Tool Only (DCF900B)

Rating
9.6
Torque
Power Source
Speed

Most important from
1671 reviews

Torque
The breakaway torque is amazing, effortlessly breaking rusty exhausts and axle nuts.
Power Source
This thing packs a punch and heft. With a DEWALT 8AH battery pack, it easily unscrews even the toughest bolts.
Speed
The variable speed trigger is a must-have and works flawlessly.
Weight and Ergonomics
The pistol grip feels great, especially when using gloves.
Additional Features
The built-in LED lamp is bright enough to illuminate your workspace in the dark.

The DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Impact Wrench (DCF900B) is a robust tool designed for a wide variety of fastening applications. With a maximum fastening torque of 1030 ft-lbs and a breakaway torque of 1400 ft-lbs, it delivers powerful performance suitable for demanding tasks. The 1/2 inch drive size is standard and versatile, making it compatible with a wide range of sockets. Being battery-powered, it provides mobility and convenience, though it's important to note that the battery is sold separately.

The impact wrench features a 4-mode speed setting and a variable speed trigger, allowing for better control in different applications. Additionally, the Precision Wrench control helps prevent overtightening and fastener run-off, which can be beneficial for both novice and experienced users. The BATTERYGUARD feature aims to reduce wear and tear on the battery, enhancing its longevity. An on-tool LED work light is included to illuminate dark workspaces, which is a helpful feature in low-light conditions.

Weighing 7 pounds, the tool is relatively heavy, which may lead to fatigue during extended use, but the ergonomic design aims to offset this to some extent. The plastic construction may not be as durable as metal alternatives, and the absence of an included battery adds to the cost. It comes with a 3-year limited warranty, 1-year free service contract, and a 90-day money-back guarantee, providing peace of mind. This tool is ideal for both professional and DIY enthusiasts looking for a reliable and powerful impact wrench.

Rating
9.6
Torque
Power Source
Speed

Most important from
1671 reviews

Torque
The breakaway torque is amazing, effortlessly breaking rusty exhausts and axle nuts.
Power Source
This thing packs a punch and heft. With a DEWALT 8AH battery pack, it easily unscrews even the toughest bolts.
Speed
The variable speed trigger is a must-have and works flawlessly.
Weight and Ergonomics
The pistol grip feels great, especially when using gloves.
Additional Features
The built-in LED lamp is bright enough to illuminate your workspace in the dark.
#3

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Impact Wrench, 1/2" Hog Ring, High Torque, Brushless, Bare Tool Only (DCF961B)

Rating
9.4
Torque
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
440 reviews

Torque
It's the most powerful and intuitive impact gun I've ever used, with a smart design that ramps up torque when needed and slows down to prevent throwing lug nuts.
Weight and Ergonomics
A bit heavy but delivers significant power, making it ideal for tasks requiring high torque.

The DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Impact Wrench is a powerful tool for heavy-duty tasks, boasting an impressive 1200 ft-lbs of max fastening torque and 1750 ft-lbs of max breakaway torque. This makes it well-suited for challenging applications like working with large pipe-flanges and wheel lugs. Its 1/2-inch drive size is standard, ensuring compatibility with a variety of sockets. The power source is a 20V lithium battery, which is not included, so you’ll need to purchase that separately.

This model stands out with its three speed settings and precision wrench mode, helping to prevent overtightening and fastening run-off, adding to its versatility and ease of use. The built-in LED work light is a great feature for working in low-light conditions. However, at 8.4 pounds, it is on the heavier side, which might make prolonged use a bit tiring.

Additionally, since it's sold as a bare tool, you’ll need to factor in the cost of the battery and charger. Despite these considerations, its high torque and additional features like speed settings and LED light make it a robust and reliable choice for those needing a high-performance impact wrench.

Rating
9.4
Torque
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
440 reviews

Torque
It's the most powerful and intuitive impact gun I've ever used, with a smart design that ramps up torque when needed and slows down to prevent throwing lug nuts.
Weight and Ergonomics
A bit heavy but delivers significant power, making it ideal for tasks requiring high torque.

Buying Guide for the Best Impact Wrenches

Choosing the right impact wrench can make a significant difference in your work efficiency and ease. Impact wrenches are powerful tools used to tighten or loosen bolts and nuts quickly and with minimal effort. They are commonly used in automotive repair, construction, and various DIY projects. To find the best impact wrench for your needs, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they relate to your specific requirements.
TorqueTorque is the amount of rotational force the impact wrench can apply. This is crucial because higher torque allows you to handle tougher jobs, such as loosening stubborn or rusted bolts. Torque is usually measured in foot-pounds (ft-lbs). For light tasks, such as small automotive repairs or household projects, a torque rating of 100-200 ft-lbs may be sufficient. For more demanding tasks, like heavy-duty automotive work or construction, look for a wrench with 300-500 ft-lbs or more. Choose a torque level based on the toughest job you expect to encounter.
Drive SizeThe drive size refers to the size of the square drive that holds the socket. Common sizes include 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, 1/2-inch, and 3/4-inch. The drive size determines the types of sockets you can use and the overall power of the tool. For light-duty tasks, a 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch drive may be adequate. For general automotive work, a 1/2-inch drive is the most versatile and commonly used. For heavy-duty applications, such as large trucks or industrial equipment, a 3/4-inch drive or larger may be necessary. Match the drive size to the type of work and the size of fasteners you will be dealing with.
Power SourceImpact wrenches can be powered by electricity (corded or cordless), air (pneumatic), or hydraulics. Corded electric wrenches offer consistent power but require an outlet, making them less portable. Cordless models provide mobility and convenience, with battery life being a key consideration. Pneumatic wrenches are powerful and commonly used in professional settings, but they require an air compressor. Hydraulic wrenches are used for very heavy-duty applications and are less common for general use. Choose a power source based on your work environment and the availability of power or air supply.
SpeedSpeed, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), indicates how fast the wrench can rotate. Higher speeds allow for quicker fastening and loosening of bolts. Light-duty tasks may only require speeds of up to 2,000 RPM, while more demanding jobs might benefit from speeds of 3,000 RPM or higher. Consider the speed in conjunction with torque; a balance of both is often ideal for versatile performance. Select a speed range that matches the pace of your work and the types of tasks you will be performing.
Weight and ErgonomicsThe weight and design of the impact wrench affect user comfort and fatigue, especially during extended use. Lighter models are easier to handle and reduce strain, making them suitable for prolonged tasks. Ergonomic features, such as comfortable grips and balanced weight distribution, enhance usability. If you will be using the wrench frequently or for long periods, prioritize models that offer good ergonomics and manageable weight. Test the tool if possible to ensure it feels comfortable in your hand.
Additional FeaturesSome impact wrenches come with additional features like variable speed control, LED lights, and brushless motors. Variable speed control allows for more precise operation, LED lights improve visibility in low-light conditions, and brushless motors offer better efficiency and longer lifespan. Consider which features will enhance your work experience and choose a model that includes those that are most beneficial to you.

FAQ