Cordless Drills vs Electric Screwdrivers

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The decision to buy a power tool is never an easy one, particularly when you have so many tools on the market that do similar (if not the same job) but just with different names. Cordless drills and electric screwdrivers are two tools that are very similar in some ways, but also very different in others, so knowing which to purchase can be a difficult task! Selecting the right tool is important not just to save money, but also to save the time, effort (and sometimes frustration) when you are completing DIY around your home. 

Have you seen our Best Cordless Drill Buyers Guide?

Our article will explain the differences between the two and then compare them both, to help you work out exactly what tool is going to be right for you, depending on the jobs that you are completing around your home! 

What Is The Difference Between Cordless Drills and Electric Screwdrivers?

The first thing that is important to consider is the difference between cordless drills and electric screwdrivers, as without this it is impossible to compare them and decide which is going to be right for you. 

The main difference is that a cordless drill can both drill in screws and also create holes in walls in preparation for these screws being fitted. However, an electric screwdriver will not be able to drill holes as it has too slow of a rate of rotation, so its sole use will be driving screws into pre-created holes. Although this is the main, obvious difference between the two, there are many other features that will determine which tool is going to be right for you to purchase. 

Bosch Home and Garden Cordless Combi Drill PSB 1800 LI-2 (2 x 18 volt batteries, 20 torque settings, drill and impact function, in carrying case)
  • Packaging may vary!
  • Optimum power for every task 3-in-1 system that can be used for screwdriving, drilling and impact drilling. It also features 20 torque settings for screwdriving in different materials
  • Suitable for different materials For drilling and screwdriving in wood and metal or impact drilling in masonry, Drilling in metal 2.5 m/s²
  • Easy screw and drill bit changes The cordless combi drill features a 10 mm shank and a single-sleeve drill chuck
  • Power for ALL 18 V The battery supplied is compatible with all tools within the green Bosch Home & Garden 18 volt system

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Cordless Drills

Cordless drills are high powered tools with a lot of torque and speed. This means that they will be able to work with a variety of materials and will be able to drill holes into materials as well as screwing screws into materials. Many cordless drills actually have the power to screw drills into walls without any pre-preparation of creating holes! 

However, this large amount of power also means that cordless drills will be heavier and bigger than electric screwdrivers, and also (more often than not) more expensive! Most people also find that they are harder to use and control, with this taking some practice before you completely get it right! 

The cordless drill is a very versatile tool, as it will come with a gripping chuck to hold the bit, which means that the tool is essentially as flexible as the number of bits that you have. It can be used as an electric screwdriver as well as a drill (providing you have the right attachments), meaning that it can be used for a wide variety of jobs in your home. But it is important to remember that they often have settings meaning that you will only be able to tighten right-handed screws and loosen left-handed screws, which isn’t always going to be what you are wanting, so then you would have to revert to a traditional screwdriver! 

Sale
Hi-Spec Electric Screwdriver Set - 103pc 3.6V Power Cordless Screwdriver with Tamper Proof Security Driver Bits, Complete in a Metal Carry Case, Electric Screwdrivers Cordless
  • Mini Electric Screwdriver: This Hi-Spec 103pc 3.6V Power Electric Screwdriver & Bit Set features a compact and lightweight mini electric screwdriver, perfect for intricate work and tight spaces.
  • Cordless Screwdriver Rechargeable: Save time and effort with the convenience of this cordless screwdriver rechargeable. No more searching for outlets or dealing with tangled cords. Charge it once and use it whenever you need.
  • All-purpose Bits: Our hardened Cr-V alloy bits cover all bases, including Pozidriv, Torx, Hex Allen, Square, Tri-Wing, XZN Spline, and more. Versatile hand tools for both professionals and novices.
  • Power Screwdriver: Experience superior performance with the power screwdriver in this set. It has an ergonomic design for comfort and control, making all your DIY tasks seem effortless.
  • Rechargeable & Reliable: The USB rechargeable 1300mAh Li-ion battery provides ample power, 200rpm speed, and 3.5Nm torque for fast and efficient screwdriving. Comes with a wall mains charger and lead for uninterrupted performance.

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Electric Screwdrivers 

Electric screwdrivers are lighter and more compact than cordless drills, meaning that you will be able to take them anywhere with you and use them in the smallest of places. This lightweight tool is also a lot easier to use than a cordless drill so is perfect for those new to DIY, or people who just want an easy life! 

However, with this lightweight design comes less torque (which means less speed and horsepower) so an electric screwdriver will struggle to do any drilling of holes – unless it is a particularly powerful model working into very softwood! The benefit of these tools with less speed means that the tool will be easier to control and most often cheaper than cordless drills. 

Electric screwdrivers won’t have a chuck, just a socket that accepts screwdriver bits, which reduces the number of jobs that they will be able to complete. But, they will almost always have a reverse function and different speeds so can work with various different screws and in many different ways. 

Our Overall Opinion

It is difficult to say which tool is going to be right for you. An electric screwdriver is a perfectly adequate, relatively cheap, reliable tool that is perfect for any homeowner wanting to complete low-level DIY. Examples of this would include removing battery covers or plug covers, hanging picture frames, putting furniture together or completing small repairs around the home. In essence, they are handy for those situations when you would normally use a screwdriver as they are quicker and easier but still compact. 

Whereas, a cordless drill is perfect for those more high powered jobs such as drilling holes, working with multiple screws and cutting holes. They will offer you a lot more power and flexibility in the number of jobs that they will be able to support you with, but to benefit from this you are going to have to be willing to pay the extra cost! 

If you have the funds available then a cordless drill will (in most cases) be able to complete the jobs of both tools. However, we have to admit that they are not nearly as handy to use as an electric screwdriver, meaning that you are probably always going to find us with both tools ready for any jobs that we may need them for! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I purchase a cordless drill and electric screwdriver in one tool?
Yes, these are most commonly named “drill drivers” and will be able to complete both tasks. However, with some, you might find that they are less powerful than some standalone models. 

What is the difference in weight between a cordless drill and an electric screwdriver?
Electric screwdrivers weigh considerably less than cordless drills. You will usually find that most electric screwdrivers weigh less than a pound, whereas cordless drills will regularly weigh 6 pounds and more! This means that cordless drills are a lot more difficult to use for any great length of time and harder to work within tight spaces! 

About Thomas Paxton 368 Articles
Hey there, I'm Thomas Paxton, your Tool Guru with a Twist! I've been knee-deep in the world of tools since I was a little tinkerer in my dad's shed. Now, I'm running my own website where I share my passion for tools and gardening products through buyers guides and insightful tips. I've got the knowledge and experience to break down complex concepts into simple, easy-to-understand language. I purchased Tools Review from Mike Jones at the start of 2023, he has done a sterling job of building the site and I hope I can continue in his success! When I'm not writing guides, you'll find me in my garden or garage, putting my skills to work and pushing the boundaries of creativity. So, whether you're a pro or just starting out, join me on this adventure, and let's conquer DIY projects together!

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