18V Best by platform
18V impact drivers
If you build timber frames, decking or big furniture, an impact driver changes everything. My pick for balance: the DeWalt DCF887.
Reviewed on 5 November 2026 · Data from the official spec sheets, linked on each model · As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
An impact driver sinks long screws effortlessly without your wrist taking the kick. It doesn’t replace a drill: it doesn’t drill well and has no clutch.
Use 1/4" impact-rated bits. Normal ones snap.
What to look for before you buy
- Torque: 175 to 220 Nm covers almost everything; more isn’t better if it’s hard to control.
- Several speeds or modes: they stop you stripping small screws.
- Brushless motor.
- Head length: the shorter it is, the better it gets into tight spots.
| Maximum torque | 175 Nm |
|---|---|
| Speeds | 0-1,100 / 2,100 / 3,600 rpm |
| Impacts | Up to 3,800 ipm |
| Weight | 1.2-1.6 kg with battery |
| Motor | Brushless |
Official spec sheet for the Makita DTD154Z · Sold without battery or charger
DeWalt 18V XRMy pick
DeWalt DCF887N
Powerful, with three speeds. Works just as well at home as on site.
| Maximum torque | 205 Nm |
|---|---|
| Speeds | 0-1,000 / 0-2,800 / 0-3,250 rpm |
| Impacts | Up to 3,800 ipm |
| Motor | Brushless |
Official spec sheet for the DeWalt DCF887N · Sold without battery or charger
Bosch Professional GDR 18V-215
The most powerful of the big three, with Bosch’s guarantee that includes batteries.
| Maximum torque | 215 Nm |
|---|---|
| Speeds | 0-2,100 / 0-3,300 rpm |
| Impacts | 0-3,000 / 0-3,800 ipm |
| Weight | 1.0 kg without battery |
Official spec sheet for the Bosch Professional GDR 18V-215 · Sold without battery or charger
Einhell TP-CI 18/220 Li BL
Lots of torque for little money. More than enough for weekend DIY.
| Maximum torque | 220 Nm |
|---|---|
| Top speed | 2,900 rpm |
| Weight | 1.16 kg without battery |
| Motor | Brushless |
Official spec sheet for the Einhell TP-CI 18/220 Li BL · Sold without battery or charger
Ryobi RID18C1 (compact ONE+ HP)
The lightest and, on paper, the one with most torque. I couldn’t confirm it on amazon.co.uk: the button goes to the official spec sheet.
| Maximum torque | 240 Nm |
|---|---|
| Top speed | 2,900 rpm |
| Impacts | Up to 4,200 ipm |
| Weight | 0.9 kg without battery |
| Motor | Brushless |
Official spec sheet for the Ryobi RID18C1 (compact ONE+ HP) · Sold without battery or charger
The pros and cons summarise opinions that come up again and again in the reviews and forums linked in the sources. I haven’t tested these tools in person.
What about Milwaukee?
I don’t include it with an Amazon link: its extended guarantee only covers purchases from an authorised distributor. If you already have M18 batteries, look for this model with the official dealer locator.
My pick
DeWalt DCF887 if in doubt. If you’re already on another platform, any of the five will do: buy the one for your battery.
Sources
- Makita DTD154Z: official spec sheet
- DeWalt DCF887N: official spec sheet
- Bosch Professional GDR 18V-215: official spec sheet
- Einhell TP-CI 18/220 Li BL: official spec sheet
- Ryobi RID18C1 (compact ONE+ HP): official spec sheet
Specs checked on the manufacturers’ websites on 5 November 2026. I don’t publish prices because they change every day.
More tools
- Combo kits
- Combi drills
- Mitre saws
- Circular saws
- Jigsaws
- Multi-tools
- Angle grinders
- Workshop vacuums
- 18V batteries
No platform yet? How to choose a platform in five questions.