Drill & Impact Driver Guide

Complete reference comparing drills vs impact drivers, covering drill bit types, torque settings, clutch adjustment, and proper techniques. Learn when to use each tool for drilling holes and driving screws.

Drill vs Impact Driver Comparison
FeatureDrill/DriverImpact Driver
Chuck type3-jaw keyless (1/2" or 3/8")1/4" hex quick-release
Best for drillingYes - precise, controllableNo - hard to control
Best for drivingLight duty screwsYes - 2-3x more torque
Long screwsStruggles, stallsEffortless
ClutchYes - adjustable settingsNo
Wrist torqueHigh (can twist wrist)Low (impacts absorb)
Noise levelModerate (85-90 dB)Loud - impacts (95-100 dB)
Size/WeightLarger, heavierCompact, lighter

Recommendation

Own both if possible. Use the drill for making holes and light driving; use the impact driver for running screws. Many manufacturers sell combo kits with both tools sharing the same batteries.

Drill Types

Cordless Drill/Driver

  • Most versatile - drilling and light screw driving
  • Adjustable clutch prevents overdriving screws
  • Variable speed trigger for control
  • 12V for light duty, 18V/20V for most work

Hammer Drill

  • Adds hammering action for drilling masonry
  • Essential for concrete, brick, block
  • Can be switched to drill-only mode for wood/metal
  • Use masonry bits with carbide tips

Rotary Hammer (SDS)

  • More powerful hammer action than hammer drill
  • Uses SDS bits - quick change, won't slip
  • For heavy-duty concrete drilling
  • Can also be used as light demolition hammer
Drill Bit Types
Bit TypeBest MaterialsNotes
Twist bits (HSS)Wood, plastic, soft metalMost common, general purpose
Brad pointWood onlyClean holes, center point prevents wandering
Spade/paddleWoodLarge holes (3/8"-1.5"), fast but rough
ForstnerWoodFlat-bottom holes, clean edges, overlapping holes
Hole sawWood, drywall, thin metalLarge diameter circles (3/4" - 6"+)
Self-feedWoodLarge holes (1"-4"+), plumbing/electrical rough-in
MasonryConcrete, brick, blockCarbide tip, use with hammer drill
CobaltSteel, stainless, hard metalsHeat resistant, for hard metals
Titanium coatedWood, plastic, soft metalLonger lasting than HSS, reduced friction
Step bitSheet metal, plasticMultiple sizes in one bit, deburrs as it cuts
Using the Clutch

What Does the Clutch Do?

The numbered ring on a drill adjusts clutch settings. When driving screws, the clutch disengages when torque reaches the set level, preventing overdriving and stripping.

Clutch Settings

  • Low numbers (1-5): Light torque - delicate work, soft materials
  • Medium (6-12): General screw driving
  • High (13-20+): Harder materials, longer screws
  • Drill symbol: Clutch disabled - full torque for drilling

Setting the Clutch

  • Start at a lower setting and test
  • If screw doesn't seat fully, increase setting
  • If screw strips or sinks too deep, decrease
  • Consistent depth = professional results
Speed & Gear Settings

Two-Speed Gearbox

  • Low gear (1): Higher torque, lower speed - driving screws, large bits
  • High gear (2): Lower torque, higher speed - drilling small holes

When to Use Each Gear

  • Large drill bits (1/2"+): Low gear
  • Driving screws: Low gear
  • Small drill bits: High gear
  • Fast drilling in soft materials: High gear

Variable Speed Trigger

  • Start slowly to prevent bit wandering
  • Increase speed once hole is started
  • Slow down when breaking through
  • Control is key - full speed isn't always better
Drilling Techniques by Material

Wood

  • Use brad point for cleanest holes
  • Back up with scrap to prevent tearout
  • Clear chips frequently on deep holes
  • Reduce speed for hardwoods

Metal

  • Center punch first to prevent wandering
  • Use cutting oil for lubrication
  • Start slow, moderate pressure
  • Let the bit cut - don't force it
  • Cobalt bits for hard metals, HSS for soft

Concrete/Masonry

  • Must use hammer drill setting
  • Use masonry bits with carbide tips
  • Moderate pressure - let hammer action work
  • Withdraw periodically to clear dust

Tile/Glass

  • Use carbide or diamond-tipped bits
  • NO hammer action - will crack
  • Use tape on surface to prevent wandering
  • Keep bit cool with water
  • Light pressure, let bit do the work
Impact Driver Tips

Why Impact Drivers Excel at Driving

  • Rotational impacts deliver torque without twisting your wrist
  • Impacts break static friction - screws start easier
  • 2-3x more torque than drills
  • Won't strip screws as easily (impacts work in bursts)

Best Practices

  • Use impact-rated bits only - standard bits will break
  • Keep bit firmly seated in screw head
  • Let the tool do the work - don't push hard
  • For delicate work, pulse the trigger

When NOT to Use Impact Driver

  • Drilling precise holes (hard to control)
  • Delicate materials (too aggressive)
  • Small brass screws (will strip)
  • Situations requiring precise torque control
Safety Considerations

Required PPE

  • Safety glasses: Metal chips and wood shavings
  • Hearing protection: Especially for impact drivers
  • No gloves - can catch on spinning bit
  • Tie back long hair

Bit Safety

  • Secure workpiece - never hold small pieces by hand
  • Know what's behind the surface you're drilling
  • Let bit cool periodically - hot bits dull faster
  • Dull bits require more pressure and can break

Battery Safety

  • Use manufacturer's charger only
  • Don't charge damaged batteries
  • Store away from heat and metal objects
  • Remove battery when changing bits

Additional Information

About This Drill & Impact Driver Guide

The drill and impact driver are the two most frequently used power tools for DIY projects. Understanding when to use each tool - and which drill bits work best for different materials - directly impacts the quality and efficiency of your work.

While many people start with just a drill/driver, adding an impact driver to your toolkit makes driving screws dramatically easier. The impact mechanism delivers torque in bursts rather than continuous rotation, which means less wrist strain and more power transmitted to the fastener. This is especially noticeable when driving long screws or working with dense materials.

Selecting the right drill bit for each material is equally important. A brad point bit makes clean holes in wood, while a cobalt bit is necessary for hard metals. Using the wrong bit leads to poor results at best and broken bits or damaged workpieces at worst.

Why Use This Reference Guide?

Quick reference for drill and driver selection helps you work more efficiently and achieve better results.

  • Understand when to use drill vs impact driver
  • Select the right drill bit for each material
  • Use clutch and speed settings properly
  • Apply correct techniques for wood, metal, and masonry
  • Maximize battery life and tool longevity
  • Work safely with these common power tools
Frequently Asked Questions

Free Drill & Impact Driver Guide - Comparison, Bit Types & Techniques | DIYProject.ai