7 Best Impact Wrenches In 2024 – Electric & Air Impact Wrenches
Trying to loosen a rusty bolt or nut can be quite frustrating. This is a problem that does not only waste time, but also wears down your hands and tools. However, this can be avoided through the use of an impact wrench. This high-torque tool makes quick and easy work of difficult nuts and bolts.
But in order to get the most of it, you need to get your hands on the best impact wrench. We’ve dedicated some time for that; researching and testing different tools to find out which ones provide the most value. Based on this criteria, we give you a review of the top rated impact wrenches on the market.
7 Best Impact Wrenches - Reviews
#1. Campbell Hausfeld 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
Editor's Rating: 
(4.3 / 5)
Campbell Hausfeld opens our list with its 1/2-inch composite impact wrench. This tool uses pneumatic power to make easy work of tough lug nuts and more. Holding it in your hands, you won’t even notice that this impact wrench weighs 5.2 pounds. That’s because it is designed to provide a balanced design, which makes it much easier to control.
Starting with the design, this impact wrench provides an ergonomic grip that’s soft and non-slip. This is made possible by a soft rubber coating that covers the handle. Overall, it features a compact design that comes in handy when working in tight spaces.
The power to size ratio of this impact wrench is quite impressive. It’s working torque ranges from 75 to 400 foot-pound. At maximum, it generates a torque of 550 foot-pound. This incredible torque is achieved via its twin hammer clutch construction. Such power makes quick work of bolts measuring up to 5/8 inch in diameter.
This impact wrench gives you the convenience of a variable speed setting. There are three different speed settings which can be adjusted to a maximum of 8,000 RPM. With it, you get to adjust the power to fit the task at hand.
The recommended working pressure of this wrench is 3.4 CFM @ 90 PSI. The air inlet size measures 1/4 inch, which means that it can accept hoses measuring a minimum of 3/8 inch. And before I forget, there’s a forward and reverse switch located on the handle for easy access. This impact wrench is backed by a 1-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Relatively inexpensive
- Powerful motor for industrial and automobile repair
- Lightweight tool for easy handling
- Reduced vibration
Cons
- Comes with no additional features other than the mentioned ones
Who should buy?
This impact wrench comes at a good size and it’s priced well. It has more power to size ratio and doesn’t sport that complicated use. This makes it a great tool for DIY weekend warrior and those that specialize in general purpose automotive repair and maintenance.
#2. DeWalt DC820B 1/2-Inch 18V Cordless Impact Wrench
Editor's Rating: 
(4.5 / 5)
DeWalt is one brand that stands out in the world of cordless power tools. It makes it to the list with DC820B 1/2-Inch impact wrench. This is a tool that takes lightweight and compact design to a whole new level. It weighs a mere 2.2 pounds and measures at just 5-3/4 inches long.
That said, this tool minimizes user fatigue to a great deal, something that translates to better control. The compact size gives you an easy time when working in tight spaces. Despite the small size, this impact wrench packs a powerful punch that makes easy work of driving screws.
This tool derives power from 18-Volt rechargeable battery, though it has to be purchased differently. At maximum speed, it delivers 1,740 inch-pound of torque. DC820B is designed for faster applications, thanks to its no-load speed of 0-2,400 RPM and 0-2,700 blows per minute.
Down to the ergonomics of this tool, it truly doesn’t disappoint. The grip is comfortable, soft and non-slip. The handle is perfectly positioned to let the tool balance well in the hands of the user. This results to minimum fatigue and improved productivity in the workplace.
Maintenance is made easier with the included service brushes. This tool is equipped with a frame-less motor to provide long-term performance. DeWalt backs this tool with a 3-year limited warranty that includes a 1-year free service.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Lightweight and compact construction
- Powerful and more portable
- Built-in LED light for improved visibility
Cons
- Doesn’t come with battery and charger
Who should buy?
This impact wrench sports a perfect combination of performance, durability and ergonomics. The tool is easier to handle and has the convenience of a cordless design. This makes it a good choice for those that want the best cordless impact wrench that is heavy-duty and more portable.
#3. Aircat 1150 Killer Torque 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
Editor's Rating: 
(4.7 / 5)
Aircat 1150 is a pneumatic tool that gives you that killer torque. This impact wrench comes lightweight, weighing at just 4.5 pounds. That said, it minimizes user fatigue and lets you work for longer. Though not quite as compact as other tools in this list, it actually fits the category and gives you an easy time maneuvering it in compact spaces.
At a glance, you’ll notice that this impact wrench comes in an L-shaped design. This provides that ergonomic pistol grip that makes it balance well. What’s more, you get the comfort of a textured non-slip handle that provides a comfortable grip every time you get your hands on this tool.
As said earlier, Aircat 1150 is a pneumatic power tool that’s got a big punch to deliver. It generates a loosening torque of 1,295 foot-pound and a maximum torque of 900 foot-pound. With it, you get 1,400 blows per minute, a feature that makes it the strongest hard hitting twin hammer impact wrench on the market,
This impact wrench has a speed of 9,000 RPM which is variable for added convenience. The rotor is 15-percent larger to generate unmatched power. And if generating lots of noise that will disturb your neighbors is an issue, then this tool comes in handy to take care of that. Compared to most impact wrenches, its quieter generating a noise level of 86 dB.
At the back of the tool is a flip lever that lets you make a quick change of direction. The base of the handle sports an exhaust that keeps the tool free of any debris. This tool comes with a 2-year warranty for parts and labor.
Pros
- Ergonomic design
- Lightweight with tons of power
- Strongest cordless impact wrench
- Patented quiet technology
Cons
- Must follow setup to get maximum torque
Who should buy?
This tool packs tons of power and comes lightweight for easy handling. It’s got more impressive features and operates at a low noise level. That said, it makes a nice choice for professionals who need a powerful impact wrench for industrial use.
#4. PowRyte Basic 100104 1/2-Inch Heavy Duty Air Impact Wrench
Editor's Rating: 
(4.4 / 5)
This impact wrench comes in a die-cast aluminum housing to provide that rugged construction that can take some punishment. The heavy-duty construction adds a little bit of weight to this tool, letting it weigh at 6 pounds. However, that little extra weight is compensated for by a well-thought balanced design.
This impact wrench is designed to work with a pressure of 90 PSI. At this working pressure, it sports a non-load speed of 7,000 RPM. The tool makes use of a twin hammer clutch system that generates a hard hit for improved reliability. With it, you get 600 foot-pound of maximum torque, which is enough to tackle heavy-duty tasks.
There’s a reverse and forward switch that gives full power in the reverse direction. It allows the power to be adjusted in two different levels for added convenience. The switch is conveniently located for easy access and makes switching quick and easy. Just below the switch is an ergonomic handle that provides a comfortable pistol grip. The handle is texture on the sides to ensure you don’t lose your hold.
One unique feature of this impact wrench is the built-in silencer. This helps keep noise level at minimum. PowRyte Basic 100104 comes with a 2-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Durable die-cast aluminum housing
- Built-in silencer for low noise generation
- Adjustable power
- High torque output
Cons
- Quite heavy compared to others tools on the list
Who should buy?
This impact range provides reliability with a high torque output. Power adjustment is made easier and you get a durable housing that can take some punishment. That said, it makes a good choice for heavy-duty tasks, both for DIY weekend warriors and professionals.
#5. Porter-Cable PCE210 Impact Wrench with Hog Ring Anvil
Editor's Rating: (4.7 / 5)
Porter-Cable PCE210 is a corded impact wrench equipped with 1/2-inch drive. The housing for the tool is made of die-cast aluminum. This housing material functions to dissipate heat, something that adds more years to the motor.
Starting with size, this impact wrench is quite on the heavy side compared to other tools in this list. But then what do you expect from a tool sporting a heavy-duty construction? What’s more, it’s perfectly balanced so that the weight is distributed well. The results is easy control and reduced fatigue despite the weight.
The non-slip handle sporting a soft rubber coating provides an ergonomic grip that’s comfortable and easy in your hand. The switch is conveniently located on the handle and lets you adjust the power with ease. At the bottom of the handle is an exhaust hole that comes in handy to keep away debris.
At a maximum of 240 foot-pound, the torque generated by this impact wrench is enough to match heavy-duty applications. The 7.5-Amp motor has a no-load speed of 2,200 RPM. At maximum speed, this tool generates a whopping 2,700 impacts per minutes. Combined together, these excellent features qualify Porter-Cable PCE210 as a tool for fast speed applications. This impact wrench comes with a 3-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Significantly cheaper
- Easier to store compared to air impact wrenches
- Solid built quality from a trusted brand
Cons
- Heavy for one-handed and overhead operation
Who should buy?
The quality and pricing of this impact wrench is quite impressive. What’s more, it provides enough torque for heavy-duty application. The fact that it is a corded tool makes it a good choice for DIY weekend warriors and professionals who don’t move a lot.
#6. DeWalt DWMT70773L 1/2-Inch Square Drive Heavy-Duty Impact Wrench
Editor's Rating: 
(4.8 / 5)
This is yet another impact wrench by DeWalt. Contrary to the battery powered model, DWMT70773L is powered by compressed air. In short, it’s a pneumatic tool designed for heavy-duty tasks. This tool comes in a unique housing fitted with bumpers to make it shock resistant. This means no damage when dropped on hard surfaces and also reduced vibration.
This impact wrench comes lightweight, weighing at just 5.3 pounds. This means minimum user fatigue and improved productivity in the workplace. DWMT70773L packs a heavy punch for a pneumatic impact wrench. And it all comes from its twin hammer clutch system that makes easy work of breaking free stubborn fasteners.
With no load, this impact wrench generates a speed of 7,500 RPM. This is achieved at a working pressure of 90 PSI. The torque doesn’t disappoint either since this tool packs enough power to generate a maximum of 650 foot-pound. What’s more, it operates at 1,100 blows per minute, something that gives you that extra punch.
The tool is compatible with 1/4-inch air inlet. Directional changes are made much easier with a forward/reverse switch. Furthermore, you get a power regulator that lets you match it with the task at hand. The handle comes in an ergonomic design so you get that comfortable grip that is soft and non-slip.
Debris are taken care of by an exhaust system located at the bottom of the handle. This impact wrench comes with a 3-year limited manufacturers warranty.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Robust solid performance
- Easy to set and use
- Excellent quality
Cons
- Tends to pick up dirt easily
Who should buy?
The quality provides by this impact wrench is more than its market price. Its torque is quite impressive and handling is much easier. That said, it makes a nice purchase for auto enthusiasts who need an impact driver for heavy-duty operations.
#7. Ingersoll-Rand 231C 1/2-Inch Super-Duty Air Impact Wrench
Editor's Rating: 
(4.6 / 5)
Ingersoll-Rand 231C enters the list as the most popular tool in its class. This impact wrench comes in a stylish design that will make a nice addition to your collection of tools. 231C is a pneumatic tool designed for tough applications.
This impact range weighs at 5.8 pounds and has a length of 7.3 inches. This makes it a compact and lightweight tool. With it, you get minimum fatigue and hassle-free maneuvering in tight spaces. This tool provides an ergonomic grip that’s comfortable and well-balanced.
Ingersoll-Rand 231C operates on an average airflow of 4.2 CFM. At this pressure, it generates a non-load speed of 8,000 RPM, which translates to 1,200 beats per minutes. The torque delivered is quite impressive, coming in at a maximum of 425 foot-pound. However, in reverse mode, it generates a maximum torque of 600 foot-pound.
With this impact wrench, you get a working torque that ranges from 25 to 350 foot-pound. The tool has an air inlet measuring 1/4 inch and can be fed by a hose that measures at least 3/8 inch. At 99 dB, the noise level of this tool doesn’t disappoint either.
There’s an adjustable power regulate that keeps you in full control. What’s more, the two-piece construction used in this impact wrench makes it much easier to service. This impact wrench comes with 1-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Adjustable power via a regulator
- Lightweight and compact design
- Fully lubricated unique twin hammer plus impact mechanism
- Torque is quite great
Cons
- Tends to make a lot of noise
Who should buy?
This is a versatile tool that can handle just about any task. That said, it makes a perfect choice for both home use and outdoor work.
What to Look for When Buying an Impact Wrench
Buying the right impact wrench is a process that needs careful consideration of different factors. Let’s look at some of them and why they matter.
#1. Torque - It’s important to have a torque that is enough to remove a fastener. A higher torque translates to a more capable impact range. It’s better to go for an impact range that has a minimum torque of 150 foot-pound.
#2. Size - The smaller the size the better. However, you need to know that there’s a tradeoff between torque and size. Going smaller means that you sacrifice a little torque. But then, you get a tool that fits tight spaces and balances well in the hand.
#3. Weight - Depend on the duration of the project. For short-term projects, weight isn’t a huge consideration. However, long-term projects requires that you go lighter since that’s where fatigue begins to set in.
#4. Impacts Per Minute - The number of impacts generated per minute is an important consideration. A higher number lets you drive screws faster and loosens bolts much easier.
#5. Brand - Impact wrenches are manufactured different. That said, you need to buy from a trusted brand. Examples of brands to consider include DeWalt, Campbell Hausfeld, Portable-Cable, Ingersoll-Rand, among others.
#6. Warranty - You need to buy an impact wrench that’s got a descent warranty. Most manufacturers put a warranty of 1 to 2 years on their tools. But occasionally, you can get warranties that are much longer.
Read More: Impact Wrench vs. Impact Driver: Which Is Better For You?
Last Updated on September 6, 2020 by