Difference Between Impact Driver and Drill

While impact drivers and drills may look similar and are often used for overlapping tasks, they are fundamentally different tools designed for distinct purposes. The main difference lies in the way they deliver torque and how they handle tough materials or repetitive work. In simple terms, a drill is a general-purpose tool used for boring holes and light screwdriving, whereas an impact driver is a high-torque tool designed specifically for driving screws and bolts, especially in heavy-duty applications.

Both tools are widely used in construction, joinery, plumbing and electrical work across the UK. Choosing the right one for the job can save time, reduce damage to materials and make tasks easier and safer.

Function and Internal Mechanism

A standard drill, also called a drill driver, uses continuous rotational force to drive a bit into wood, metal, plastic or masonry. It is ideal for drilling holes and screwdriving tasks that require control and precision. Most drills include variable speed settings, a torque clutch and a hammer mode for drilling into harder materials like brick or concrete.

An impact driver, by contrast, uses rotational concussive force to deliver high torque in short bursts. It does this with an internal hammer-and-anvil mechanism that strikes rapidly as resistance increases. This makes impact drivers more powerful for driving long screws or bolts, especially into dense or knotty timber, but less suitable for precise drilling.

When to Use a Drill

Drills are best for tasks that require a variety of bits and more delicate control. This includes:

• Drilling holes in timber, metal, plastic or masonry

• Driving small screws or fixings into light materials

• Pilot holes and countersinking

• Using accessories like hole saws, wire brushes or sanding attachments

Drills typically come with adjustable torque settings and a two- or three-jaw chuck that accepts a wide range of round or hex-shank bits. They are versatile, making them a go-to tool for many tradespeople and DIYers.

When to Use an Impact Driver

Impact drivers are purpose-built for high-torque screwdriving. They are ideal for:

• Driving long or thick screws into hardwood or structural timber

• Fixing coach bolts, lag screws or decking screws

• Working with self-drilling screws in metal

• Repetitive tasks like fitting plasterboard or cladding

Impact drivers use a quick-change ¼ inch hex chuck and require impact-rated bits to withstand the higher forces. They are compact and lightweight, making them easier to handle in tight spaces or overhead work.

Key Differences at a Glance

• Torque Delivery: Drills use constant rotational force; impact drivers use bursts of rotational impact

• Speed Control: Drills offer adjustable torque and multiple speed settings; impact drivers rely on trigger sensitivity

• Precision: Drills are better for controlled work and accurate hole placement; impact drivers are more aggressive and less precise

• Chuck Type: Drills have adjustable chucks for various bits; impact drivers have quick-release hex chucks for driver bits

• Noise and Vibration: Impact drivers are louder and create more vibration than drills

• Versatility: Drills are more adaptable across a range of tasks; impact drivers are more specialised

Common Misconceptions

One common misunderstanding is that an impact driver can replace a drill for all tasks. While impact drivers are powerful and effective at driving fixings, they are not suitable for accurate drilling, especially in masonry or tile. Another misconception is that all drill bits can be used in an impact driver. In reality, only hex-shank and impact-rated bits should be used due to the high stress involved.

Some also believe that more power is always better. In fact, using an impact driver for light or delicate tasks can lead to overdriving, stripping screws or damaging materials.

Conclusion

The main difference between a drill and an impact driver is how they apply force. A drill provides controlled, constant torque suitable for precision work and hole drilling, while an impact driver delivers short, powerful bursts of torque for heavy-duty screwdriving. Both tools are valuable in construction and joinery, and having both on site allows professionals to work more efficiently by using each for its intended purpose.