Whether you're screwing in heavy-duty timber screws or putting together some substantial framework, finding the Best Impact Driver requires evaluating a variety of aspects. As a tradesperson or serious DIYer, you understand how important a proper fastening tool is for removing screw heads and reducing wrist strain. So if you're wanting to upgrade or maybe starting off, there's no better way to guarantee you have the equipment you need than by checking out the whole line of Makita Impact Drivers. In this buyer's guide, we'll look at the different types and determine which jobs they're most suited for, allowing you to choose the ideal driver for the job.
What to Look for When Choosing the Best Impact Driver in the UK
When selecting the finest driver to add to your collection, consider these essential characteristics based on your planned application.
- Peak Torque (Nm): The greater the 'torque rating' (measured in Newton-meters), the better the driver at screwing screws into wood and steel constructions.
- Brushless Motor: Eliminates carbon brushes, lowering operational temperatures, and can run for up to 50% longer on a single charge than traditional brushed motors.
- Voltage Platform: 18V LXT tools are very compatible with a wide range of accessories. 40V Max XGT cordless tools are intended for heavy-duty commercial use.
- Electronics: Variable speed triggers and distinctive modes such as T (for Torx) help to reduce cam-outs and timber splitting when appropriate bits are used.
A breakdown of our favourite-four best Makita Impact Drivers:
1. Makita DTD172Z 18V LXT Impact Driver.
The Makita DTD172Z 18V LXT Impact Driver is the pinnacle of 18V fastening performance.
Who it's for: Professional joiners, cabinet builders, and site carpenters who need ultra-compact tool dimensions combined with maximum control.
What it solves: Because of their unpredictable speed, standard impact drivers can easily snap smaller fixings or strip screw heads; the DTD172Z has four stages of electronic impact selection as well as four aid modes to prevent screw head damage.
When to use it: For general first- and second-fix timber construction, shopfitting, and detailed assembly in tight corners.
Product differentiation: Has an ultra-slim head profile and dual twin-LED work lights on both sides of the chuck to entirely eliminate shadows.
| Specification | Details |
| Platform | 18V LXT Lithium-Ion |
| Motor Type | Brushless |
| Max Fastening Torque | 180 Nm |
| No Load Speed | 0 - 3,600 RPM |
| Impact Rate | 0 - 3,800 IPM |
| Body Weight | 1.2 kg |
2. The Makita TD001GZ 40V Max XGT impact driver
The Makita TD001GZ 40V Max XGT Impact Driver has an unrivalled power reserve for industrial applications requiring hard fastening on a continuous basis.
Who it is intended for: Steel erectors, wood frame specialists, and heavy infrastructure contractors seeking corded comparable performance.
What problem does it solve: It overcomes the heavy duty load restrictions of normal 18V platforms by producing up to 220Nm of continuous torque under sustained pressure.
When to use it: For driving lengthy coach bolts, structural timber fasteners, or structural metal fixes on heavy-duty project sites.
Product differentiation: Runs on Makita's 40V Max XGT heavy-duty system, which has 10 special electronic modes such as bolt-breakaway and timber auto-stop functions.
| Specification | Details |
| Platform | 40V Max XGT |
| Motor Type | Brushless |
| Max Fastening Torque | 220 Nm |
| No Load Speed | 0 - 3,700 RPM |
| Impact Rate | 0 - 4,400 IPM |
| Body Weight | 1.7 kg |
3. Brushless Impact Driver Makita DTD153Z 18V
One important workhorse that offers brushless power at a very low price range is the Makita DTD153Z 18V Brushless Impact Driver.
Whos it for: General builders, sparkies, and men seeking a dependable, hassle-free daily car.
Problem it solves: It eliminates the mechanical wear and battery waste of brushed motors without requiring the more expensive multi-mode flagship tools.
When to use it: Perfect for fast, repetitive driving tasks like repairing plasterboard, decking, cable trays, or regular woodwork.
Product Differentiation: Its single-speed simplicity and incredibly compact head length of 126mm, which allows it to operate inside stud cavities and tight joists.
| Specification | Details |
| Platform | 18V LXT Lithium-Ion |
| Motor Type | Brushless |
| Max Fastening Torque | 170 Nm |
| No Load Speed | 0 - 3,400 RPM |
| Impact Rate | 0 - 3,600 IPM |
| Body Weight | 1.3 kg |
4. Impact Driver Body Makita DTD152Z 18V LXT
As the most accessible entry point in the professional series, the Makita DTD152Z 18V LXT Impact Driver Body delivers excellent value without compromising durability.
Who it’s for: DIY enthusiasts, apprentices, or tradespeople looking for a cheap backup unit on site.
What problem it solves: Delivers 165Nm of concussive torque at a fraction of the cost, handling tasks that traditional combi drills struggle to perform.
When to use it: Ideal for general maintenance chores, shed construction, fence, and light site assembly.
Product differentiation: Features Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) designed to resist dust and dripping water in outdoor work situations.
| Specification | Details |
| Platform | 18V LXT Lithium-Ion |
| Motor Type | Brushed |
| Max Fastening Torque | 165 Nm |
| No Load Speed | 0 - 2,900 RPM |
| Impact Rate | 0 - 3,500 IPM |
| Body Weight | 1.5 kg |
Frequently Asked Questions, when it comes to choosing the Best Impact Driver
What is the very best impact driver I can purchase?
The Makita DTD172Z 18V LXT Impact Driver is hands-down the best in terms of performance, build quality, and control. It delivers 180Nm of maximum torque, has an ultra-slim head design for accessing tight locations, and includes 4-stage electronic power switching as well as aid modes that totally stop cam-outs and stripped fixing heads. However, if you need high industrial power for continuous heavy building, the 40V Max Makita TD001GZ wins the top spot with 220Nm of heavy-duty torque
I'm a carpenter - what is the best impact driver I can buy?
As a carpenter, you need precise speed control, head clearance, and consistent continuous torque.The Makita DTD172Z is an excellent choice for joinery and carpentry work. Its specialist wood/timber assist mode automatically starts at low speeds to align the thread before cranking up to maximum RPM, avoiding wood splitting, head stripping, or throw-outs on delicate first and second-fix timber installations.
I'm on a budget so whats a good impact driver to buy?
If you're on a tight budget, the Makita DTD152Z 18V LXT Impact Driver Body is the finest value option. It may use a classic brushed motor, but it still produces a respectable 165 Nm of torque. It also features Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) against dust and moisture, and it offers really trade-level performance at a reasonable cost. Considering that, a somewhat more expensive Makita DTD153Z will provide you with a brushless motor and improved performance for only a few pounds extra.
A summary of the Best Rated Impact Driver
In the realm of the best-rated impact drivers, Makita consistently holds the premier position due to its exceptional amalgamation of construction quality, equilibrium, and the efficacy of its attaching capabilities. All Impact Drivers LXT and XGT tools are designed to help professionals deal with frequent challenges such as fastener stripping, battery depletion, and a lack of tool clearance. It would be a fantastic idea to choose any of the best-rated impact drivers from the DTD152Z series, or to go with the DTD172Z model, which includes smart modes.