The Best Electric Screwdrivers for Every Job, According to Our Testing

ProsPowerful motorLED lightGyroscopic activationThe intuitive controls on this DeWalt electric screwdriver make it a great choice for those who want to really dial up the speed of their driver while they work. Unlike other models that use a dedicated directional switch, this electric screwdriver switches from forward to reverse with a twist of the wrist. The adjustable handle also gives you the option of a pistol or straight grip. The driver also has a range of clutch settings, and the eight-volt motor packs more power than most. There's also a full package that comes with a huge bit set and two batteries, so you can charge one while you use the other. Key SpecsGrip TypePistol and straightPower8 voltsMax Speed0-430 RPMWeight1.1 lbs.Bits Included0ProsMost powerful model on the listIncludes two batteriesDelivers impressive torque for its sizeIf four- and eight-volt electric screwdrivers aren’t powerful enough for you, this 12-volt model from Bosch is worth a look. It boasts a max speed of 1300 RPM’s, and combined with the high-powered motor, is suited to heavier-duty applications. It’s compact too, with a head length of just 5.6 inches, and light enough to use for long periods of time to cut down on hand or shoulder fatigue.The driver also gives you the benefit of two batteries, so you can charge one while you work. This means it’s even more useful for heavy-duty jobs that can drain the battery. If you need a workhorse tool, look no further.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsFeels sturdy in handEasy to use for a variety of applicationsConsNo integrated on-board storage for bitsWhile it’s not the brand’s first model with an adjustable design, this one features three angle positions, three torque levels, and convenient USB-C charging. One of the things that makes this model stand out is its sturdy feel in hand. During testing, one of the first things I noticed was how easy it was to use on a wide range of tasks, including installing light switch covers, tightening cabinet door hinges, and swapping out drawer pulls, among other things.The two bits fit snugly into the magnetic bit holder and pop out easily, but there's no integrated storage so I had to keep track of the bit that wasn’t in use.Compared to higher-end 8V models, this one is relatively underpowered. However, I found it capable of getting the job done in basic applications. Key SpecsGrip TypeStraight and angled (22.5 and 45 degrees)Power4VMax Speed240 RPMWeight13 ozBits2ProsCompact sizeFour types of bits includedUSB charging capability ConsNot as powerful as mostLacks variable speed capabilitiesThis budget-friendly Skil electric screwdriver might not be the most powerful, but its budget-friendly price and straightforward operation still make it a great value. The elongated, two-finger trigger is simple to engage, and with four different bit types–nine in total–it’s prepared to handle a variety of fasteners. Plus, two magnetic bit holders on the sides of the driver keep your most frequently used options close by.I also appreciate the USB charging port so there’s no searching for a free wall outlet. And, at less than six inches long, it’s easy to stash inside a toolbox or kitchen drawer.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsRotating 6-bit storage cartridgeScrew holder keeps fasteners in placeLightweight designConsOnly one speedLow power compared to other optionsThis Worx model has onboard storage for six different driver bits to tackle different fastener types, a handy feature to spare you from searching for the right one. The reloadable carriage also uses a slide-action changer, so all you have to do is flick your thumb and you have a new bit in place.An innovative screw holder keeps your fastener in place as you get in position, too. I’ve found these holders to be invaluable when working in cramped or awkward areas that make it difficult to hold the screw in place yourself.Keep in mind that the relatively low 4-volt motor won’t provide as much torque as other choices, and you can’t change speeds.Key SpecsGrip TypePistolPower4 voltsMax Speed270 RPMWeight1.1 lbs.Bits Included6Pros10 S2 steel bits includedCircular LED helps eliminate shadowsConsNo pivoting pistol gripIf you’re mostly assembling flat-pack furniture and handling light home repairs, this HOTO kit covers the basics. It ships with 10 magnetic S2 steel bits and a storage case, so you’re not hunting for the right tip or a spare bit mid-project.The three torque settings let you dial down the force for delicate hardware and back up for driving into softer woods, and Hoto rates it for more than 1,000 screws on a single charge. A smart sensor stops the bit the moment you release the trigger, which adds a bit of control on smaller fasteners.The W1 charges over USB-C, so you can top it off from the same cable as your phone or laptop, and the ring-shaped LED around the collar makes it easier to work inside cabinets or under a desk. At 0.55 pounds with a soft TPE grip, it’s comfortable to hold for a full afternoon of assembling furniture. Like some of the other options on this list, it doesn’t have a pivoting pistol grip, so you’re limited to the straight, head-on drilling of a manual screwdriver.Key SpecsGrip TypeStraightPower4 voltsMax Speed220 RPMWeight0.55 lbs.Bits Included10Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsLarge built-in flashlightIncludes philips and flathead bitsSimple to useConsSpeed can’t be adjustedWith a large, bright, LED flashlight on board, this is the electric screwdriver to buy if you frequently work in basements, closets, or other areas with low-light conditions. There’s a three-position handle to choose the best grip for the job, and the user-friendly adjustment switch allows you to easily lock your preferred option into place. This driver also includes a philips and flathead bit, and holds its charge for up to 18 months. Keep in mind that, just like the other Black + Decker model on our list, this driver has a single speed that can’t be adjusted.Key SpecsGrip TypePistol and straight Power4 voltsMax Speed180 RPM Weight1.3 lbs.Bits Included2ProsDoesn’t take up much spaceIncludes 11 bitsCharges quicklyConsNo on-board bit storageMeasuring just 1.38 inches in diameter, this Worx model is barely larger than a manual screwdriver—and still packs 4V of driving power. It boasts 45 minutes of continuous runtime per charge too, and provides three torque settings for added versatility. With a collection of 11 bits—including three different-sized Philips options—it’s prepared to tackle an impressive range of fasteners, although it doesn’t provide any on-board storage. A low-battery light lets you know when it’s time to recharge, and two front-facing LED’s ensure you have a clear view of your workspace. Worx’s 3-year warranty has you covered if any issues come up.Key SpecsGrip TypeStraightPower4 voltsMax Speed300 RPMWeight1.5 lbs.Bits Included11Alex Rennie is a freelance writer who specializes in the Home Improvement, DIY, and Tool space. As a former residential and commercial carpenter, Alex uses his hands-on experience to write practical buying guides, how-to articles, and product reviews. His work has also appeared in Business Insider's Insider Picks, and before his writing career, he was a full-time carpenter living in New York City. There, he worked as part of a team designing, building, and installing large furniture pieces, as well as performing a variety of home repair and maintenance projects. Alex currently lives in Los Angeles, CA, and spends his free time exploring the beaches and mountains with his fiancé and their dog Louie.Douglas Helm is a freelance writer who specializes in the technology space. Douglas started out working for various marketing agencies, learning copywriting and SEO, before moving on to a full-time freelance career. Throughout his nearly decade-spanning career, he’s written for a diverse array of companies, including Y-Combinator start-ups. His experience in computer sales, cryptocurrency investment, and his general curiosity have given him a breadth of knowledge in the tech space and the know-how to write useful buying guides and product reviews. Douglas currently lives on the road, exploring nature, cities, and the world at large.