Best 18V Impact Drivers with LED Light

TL;DR: The DEWALT DCF845B packs a brushless 20V motor, 1825 in‑lb of torque and three speed settings into a 2.2‑lb tool, but you’ll need to buy a battery and charger separately.

What really sets the DCF845B apart is its 1825 in‑lb of maximum torque, a figure the manufacturer claims is 30% more torque than previous models. Coupled with a brushless motor that spins up to 3400 RPM, the driver delivers strong, consistent power for demanding fastening tasks. The tool also features a variable‑speed trigger and three selectable speed ranges, letting you dial in the right speed for screws, bolts or delicate work.

At 2.2 lb, the DCF845B is heavier than the ultra‑light Milwaukee M12 (1.6 lb) and the DEWALT DCF809B (2.0 lb), but lighter than the Makita XDT13Z (2.43 lb) and the Ridgid 18V Brushless (2.74 lb). Its 5.1‑in length and 3‑LED work light sit between the compact dimensions of the Milwaukee (5.0 in length, 2.0 in width) and the larger Craftsman CMCF830D2 (5.51 in length, 2.76 in width). Torque-wise, the DCF845B outperforms the Makita’s 1500 in‑lb and the DCF809B’s 1700 in‑lb, yet falls short of the Ridgid’s 2200‑2300 in‑lb range. Speed‑wise, its 3400 RPM ceiling matches the Makita’s no‑load speed and trails the Milwaukee’s 3600 RPM max.

Reviewers consistently praise the driver’s torque punch and the durability of its brushless motor, noting that it holds up well on heavy‑duty jobs. The three integrated LEDs are highlighted as handy for tight spaces, while the belt‑clip adds convenience on the job site. The main criticism is that the battery and charger are sold separately, which adds to the overall cost for users who don’t already own a DEWALT 20V battery system.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high‑quality option — the DEWALT DCF845B offers LED Count: 3 LEDs

Avoid if: You're on a tight budget or only need basic functionality

TL;DR: The Craftsman CMCK200C2 packs 1,700 in‑lbs of torque, 3,800 IPM impacts and a brush‑less motor into a lightweight $99 combo that earns a 4.8‑star rating from nearly 9 K reviewers.

The standout spec is the 1,700 in‑lbs maximum torque paired with a peak impact rate of 3,800 IPM, both driven by a brushless motor that the manufacturer claims delivers 30 % more power and 25 % longer runtime. The tool also offers three impact‑speed settings (0‑1,300 RPM, 0‑2,600 RPM, 0‑2,900 RPM) and a 2‑speed drill gearbox (0‑350 RPM and 0‑1,500 RPM). With a 2 Ah battery pack (2 × 20V MAX) and three surrounding LEDs, you get bright illumination exactly where you need it.

Compared with the other nine models, the CMCK200C2 is dramatically lighter—its listed weight of 0.000625 lb is far below the Makita XDT13Z’s 2.43 lb and the DEWALT DCF809B’s 2.0 lb. Its overall length of 15.5 inches is longer than Makita’s 5‑inch overall length, giving you a longer lever for leverage, while its torque of 1,700 in‑lbs matches DEWALT’s 1,700 in‑lbs and exceeds Makita’s 1,500 in‑lbs. The impact‑IPM figure also tops Makita’s 3,600 IPM and rivals the Milwaukee M12’s 4,000 BPM (blows per minute) rating, even though the latter lists a different metric. Voltage-wise, the Craftsman’s 20V MAX aligns with DEWALT’s 20V MAX but sits above Makita’s 18V platform.

Home‑improvers love the reliability of this combo; users frequently mention the long runtime of up to 90 holes per charge and the bright three‑LED chuck lighting for dim workspaces. Professional reviewers applaud the brushless motor’s efficiency and the quick‑release one‑handed bit change, but they also warn that the variable‑speed trigger can be overly sensitive, leading to occasional bit breakage. The torque is solid for most DIY tasks, yet several users note it falls short for heavy automotive jobs like lug‑nut removal.

Technical details reinforce the value proposition: a 350 UWO drill power rating, a 2‑speed drill gearbox, and a 3‑speed impact gearbox give you fine control across a range of materials. The reversible belt hook and forward/reverse/lock rocker switch add ergonomic convenience, while the keyless 1/2‑inch drill chuck and 1/4‑inch hex impact drive keep bit swaps quick.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the Craftsman CMCK200C2 offers Height: 11.0 inches

Avoid if: You have limited desk space or need portability, or you require extreme torque for heavy‑duty automotive repair.

TL;DR: The Milwaukee M18 2656-20 packs a brushless 4‑pole motor, 1,500 in‑lb torque and up to 3,450 IPM in a compact 7.85‑inch tool that’s priced at $67.00, earning a 4.8‑star rating from over 4,600 users.

What really sets this driver apart is its 1,500 in‑lb maximum torque paired with an impact rate of 0‑3,450 IPM, driven by a brushless 4‑pole frameless motor. REDLINK Intelligence adds overload protection, and the variable‑speed trigger gives you forward, reverse and a middle stop for precise control.

At 2.8 lbs, the Milwaukee sits slightly heavier than the Ridgid 18V Brushless (2.74 lbs) but far lighter than the Seesii Impact Driver’s full kit (7.05 lbs). Its 7.85‑inch height is shorter than the Craftsman CMCK200C2 (11.0 in) and comparable to the Ridgid’s 7.91 in, while its 5.69‑inch length is longer than the Ridgid’s 3.39 in but shorter than the DEWALT DCF809B’s 9.0 in. Torque-wise, it trails the Ridgid’s 2,200‑2,300 in‑lb range and the DEWALT’s 1,700 in‑lb, yet matches the Makita XDT13Z’s 1,500 in‑lb rating.

Professional reviewers highlight the motor’s longevity and the quick‑change 1/4‑inch hex chuck as workflow boosters. Users appreciate the single LED positioned below the chuck for illumination in tight spots. The main trade‑off is that the driver ships tool‑only, so you’ll need to purchase an M18 battery and charger separately, and the 1,500 in‑lb torque may fall short on heavy‑duty structural fastening.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry-level option — the Milwaukee M18 2656-20 offers Impacts Per Minute: 0-3,450 IPM

TL;DR: The DEWALT DCF809B packs 1,700 in‑lb of torque into a 2‑lb, 9‑in compact driver for just $79.98, making it a strong budget pick for tight‑space work.

What really stands out is the 1,700 in‑lb maximum torque, a figure usually reserved for larger, pricier models. Coupled with a brushless motor, the driver delivers that torque while staying under 2 pounds and measuring only 9.0 inches in length, so you can swing it into cramped cabinets or framing gaps without sacrificing power.

When you line it up against the nine other drivers in this roundup, the DCF809B feels notably lighter than the Ridgid and Milwaukee M18 units, and its weight is essentially on par with the bare‑tool weight of the Seesii model. It’s also shorter than the Milwaukee M12 and the Craftsman CMCF830D2, giving it an edge in confined spaces, while still offering more heft than the ultra‑light Craftsman CMCK200C2, which feels almost weightless.

Reviewers consistently highlight the driver’s accessibility in tight spots, praising the blend of power‑to‑size and the three integrated LEDs that illuminate dark job sites. Professional reviewers note that the three‑speed variable trigger lets you dial in just the right amount of force for delicate work, while everyday users love the belt‑clip for easy carry. The main trade‑off is that the tool ships without a battery or charger, so you’ll need to invest in those separately, and the 1‑inch bit tip size may force you to use adapters for some applications.

Beyond the torque, the driver runs on the 20V MAX lithium‑ion system, shares the same battery platform as over 300 other DeWalt tools, and features a 1/4‑inch hex chuck, a pistol‑grip handle, and a variable‑speed trigger. The three‑LED work light and built‑in belt hook round out a design aimed at professionals who need a compact yet capable impact driver without breaking the bank.

Best for: Budget‑conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the DEWALT DCF809B offers Max Torque: 1,700 in‑lbs

Avoid if: You prefer the substantial grip of a full‑size driver or need a tool that ships with a battery and charger included

TL;DR: The Milwaukee M12 3453-20 packs 1,500 in‑lb of torque, 3,600 RPM and a 5‑inch sub‑compact body into a 1.6‑lb tool, making it a nimble choice for tight‑space fastening.

What really sets this driver apart is its blend of power and size. A POWERSTATE brushless motor delivers up to 1,500 in‑lb of torque and 3,600 RPM, while the 4‑Mode drive control adds a dedicated self‑tapping screw setting. At just 5.0 in long and 1.6 lb heavy, the tool fits into cramped cabinets and stays comfortable in the hand. Three LEDs illuminate the bit, and an all‑metal belt clip lets you keep it within reach.

Compared with the nine other impact drivers in this roundup, the Milwaukee feels feather‑light. Most competitors sit around the 2‑pound mark – the DEWALT DCF845B weighs about 2.2 lb and the Makita XDT13Z about 2.43 lb – so the M12’s 1.6 lb chassis gives you less fatigue on long jobs. Its torque sits below the DEWALT’s 1,825 in‑lb but matches the Makita’s 1,500 in‑lb, and its 3,600 RPM top speed nudges ahead of the DEWALT’s 3,400 RPM. In short, you get a high‑torque, high‑speed package that’s slimmer and lighter than most rivals.

Users consistently praise the sub‑compact design and the brushless motor’s punch. Reviewers note the tool’s ability to reach under cabinets and inside tight frames without sacrificing fastening strength. Professional reviewers also highlight the 4‑Mode drive, especially the self‑tapping mode for quick screw‑in work. On the flip side, the 12 V system is mentioned as a limitation for heavy‑duty drilling, and the 1/4‑inch hex drive is seen as geared toward fastening rather than large‑diameter drilling.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high-quality option — the Milwaukee M12 3453-20 offers LED Count: 3

Avoid if: You're on a tight budget or only need basic functionality

TL;DR: The Makita XDT13Z packs a brushless 18 V motor, 1,500 in‑lb torque, and up to 3,600 IPM in a lightweight 2.43‑lb body, though it ships without a battery.

The standout feature is its brushless motor paired with a maximum torque of 1,500 in‑lb and impacts per minute ranging from 0 - 3,600 IPM. At just 5 inches long and 2.43 lbs heavy, the driver feels compact enough for tight spaces while still delivering a no‑load speed of 0 - 3,400 RPM. An ergonomic soft grip and a single LED work light round out the design for comfortable, well‑lit operation.

Compared with the nine other drivers in this roundup, the Makita sits in the mid‑weight range: it’s heavier than the Milwaukee M12 3453‑20 at 1.6 lbs, but lighter than the Seesii Impact Driver’s kit weight of 7.05 lbs. Its torque is lower than the DEWALT DCF845B’s 1,825 in‑lb but matches the Milwaukee M18’s 1,500 in‑lb. The single LED contrasts with the three‑LED lights on most competitors, and the one speed setting is fewer than the multi‑speed options found on several rivals.

User feedback consistently praises the brushless motor for cooler operation and the claim of up to 50% longer runtime per charge, which many reviewers say extends job‑site productivity. The ergonomic grip earns high marks for reducing fatigue during prolonged use. On the downside, buyers note that the tool arrives without a battery, adding extra cost if you don’t already own Makita 18 V cells, and the single speed setting limits flexibility for projects that benefit from multiple speed ranges.

Built on Makita’s 18 V LXT platform, the XDT13Z offers variable speed control and a speed‑power selection switch, letting you dial in power for a wide array of fastening tasks. The combination of a brushless motor, high IPM rating, and runtime‑efficiency claim makes it a solid choice for DIY enthusiasts who value durability and speed without sacrificing comfort.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the Makita XDT13Z offers Impacts Per Minute: 0 - 3,600 IPM

TL;DR: The DEWALT DCF870B packs 500 in‑lb of hydraulic torque, a 9‑LED light and up to 57 % quieter operation in a compact 4‑inch head, but it carries a premium $169.99 price tag.

The standout spec is its 500 in‑lb maximum torque, the highest rating for a hydraulic impact driver, paired with a 9‑LED work light that shines up to six times brighter than standard models. Its head measures just 4 inches, letting you reach tight recesses, and the hydraulic mechanism cuts noise by up to 57 %—a big plus in residential or office settings.

Compared with the other nine drivers in our roundup, the DCF870B is heavier than the Milwaukee M12 (1.6 lb) but lighter than the Makita XDT13Z (2.43 lb) when the battery is attached. It delivers more impacts per minute (4,200 IPM) than the Craftsman CMCF830D2’s 3,500 IPM, and its 9‑LED array far outnumbers the three‑LED lights on Craftsman CMCF830D2, Milwaukee M12 and Makita. While it costs more than the budget‑friendly Craftsman CMCK200C2, its brushless motor, 2‑speed drive (0‑1,100 RPM low, 0‑3,000 RPM high) and belt‑clip add professional convenience.

Reviewers consistently praise the quiet hydraulic action and the ability to spin fast—up to 250 % faster than comparable Milwaukee models. The compact head and bright light make it a go‑to for cabinet work and electrical installations. On the flip side, experts note that the softer hydraulic pulse delivers less raw power than a traditional mechanical driver, so very heavy‑duty fasteners may feel under‑driven.

Best for: Professionals who need quiet operation and tight‑space access, thanks to 9 LED illumination and a 4‑inch head.

Avoid if: You need the highest raw torque for heavy‑duty jobs or are on a tight budget—the driver costs $169.99.

TL;DR: The Seesii QH150 packs 1590 in‑lb of torque into a 5.1‑inch, 2‑lb brushless driver, and its $69.99 kit with two 2.0 Ah batteries makes it a solid budget choice for DIY tasks.

At the heart of the Seesii Impact Driver is a brushless 21 V motor that delivers a maximum torque of 1590 in‑lb (180 N·m). The tool’s overall length is just 5.1 inches, which lets you reach into tight spaces that larger drivers can’t fit. With a variable‑speed trigger and an impact frequency of 0‑3500 IPM, the driver balances power and control for everyday fastening jobs.

Compared with the other nine drivers in this roundup, the Seesii is lighter than the Ridgid 18V Brushless, which weighs 2.74 lb, and matches the bare‑tool weight of the DEWALT DCF809B at 2.0 lb. Its torque sits below Ridgid’s 2200‑2300 in‑lb range but is a touch higher than Milwaukee’s M18 2656‑20, which lists 1500 in‑lb. In terms of size, Seesii’s 5.1‑inch length is shorter than Milwaukee’s 5.69‑inch model, making it the most compact option among the peers.

Reviewers consistently praise the driver’s compact form factor, noting that the 5.1‑inch chassis makes it easy to maneuver around studs and inside cabinets. The 20‑piece drill‑bit set and trigger‑activated LED also get frequent mentions for adding convenience on the job site. On the downside, users point out that the two 2.0 Ah batteries provide less runtime than kits that ship with larger 4.0 Ah cells, and the 1590 in‑lb torque falls short of the higher‑end models that push past 2000 in‑lb.

Best for: Entry-level buyers or those on a tight budget — the Seesii Impact Driver offers Chuck Size: 1/4" Hex

Avoid if: You need powerful performance or professional‑grade features

TL;DR: The Craftsman CMCF830D2 packs 1,700 in‑lb of torque, a brush‑less motor and three‑speed control in a 2.07‑lb, 20 V package, but its $159 price puts it above many budget‑friendly impact drivers.

At the heart of the CMCF830D2 is a brushless motor that delivers a peak torque of 1,700 in‑lb, enough to drive large fasteners without stalling. Combined with a 3‑speed selector and a variable‑speed trigger, the tool lets you dial in power precisely, whether you’re tightening deck screws or assembling furniture. Its 3 LED lights wrap around the chuck, illuminating the work area without needing a separate light source.

In a side‑by‑side look, the Craftsman tips the scales at 2.07 lb, making it slightly lighter than the DEWALT DCF870B’s 2.2 lb bare‑tool weight. However, its impact rate of 3,800 IPM falls short of the DEWALT’s 4,200 IPM, and the three LEDs are fewer than the nine DEWALT offers. Compared with the Milwaukee M12, which weighs just 1.6 lb, the Craftsman is a bit heftier but compensates with a higher torque figure than Milwaukee’s 3,600 RPM‑limited speed.

Consumer feedback repeatedly highlights the driver’s solid power delivery, especially when paired with larger V20 batteries, and the quality of its LED illumination. Reviewers also note the quick‑release 1/4‑in hex chuck and built‑in belt clip as convenient for on‑the‑go jobs. Professional reviewers point out that the variable‑speed trigger demands a gentle hand to avoid overtightening, and they caution that the torque ceiling may not satisfy heavy‑duty tasks like lug‑nut removal.

Technical details round out the picture: the unit runs on a 20 V max lithium‑ion battery (nominal 18 V), measures 8.71 in in height and 12.21 in in length, and fits neatly into the VERSATRACK wall system. The combination of a brushless motor, three‑speed settings and a quick‑release chuck makes the driver feel both robust and ergonomic for everyday DIY and light‑trade projects.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the Craftsman CMCF830D2 offers LED Count: 3

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $159.00

TL;DR: The Ridgid 18V Brushless Impact Driver packs 2200‑2300 in‑lb of torque, a brushless motor and a compact 3.39‑in. length for just $69.95, making it a solid budget pick for heavy‑duty fastening.

This driver’s standout spec is its maximum torque range of 2200‑2300 in‑lb, paired with an impact rate of up to 4200 IPM and three selectable speed modes. Weighing only 2.74 lb and measuring 3.39 in. in length, it fits comfortably in tight spaces while still delivering professional‑grade power. The brushless motor, 18 V lithium‑ion compatibility and a single LED light round out a well‑equipped tool.

Compared with the other nine tools in the roundup, the Ridgid sits at a similar price point to the Seesii Impact Driver but is dramatically lighter than Seesii’s 7.05‑lb package. It is heavier than the ultra‑light Milwaukee M18 (1.5 lb) and Milwaukee M12 (1.6 lb), yet it out‑torques both, as those models list maximum torques of 1,500 in‑lb and 1,500 in‑lb respectively. Its single LED contrasts with the three‑LED setups on DEWALT and other rivals, and its 1/4 in. hex quick‑eject chuck matches the common standard seen across the group.

User feedback highlights the driver’s raw power for lag bolts and the convenience of one‑hand bit insertion. Reviewers praise the brushless efficiency and the ergonomic, stand‑up design for reduced fatigue on longer jobs. A common critique points to the variable‑speed trigger, which some users find less precise than dial‑only controls on competing models, and the added weight once a 2.0 Ah battery is attached, which can lead to arm fatigue during extended use.

Additional technical notes include a reversible belt hook for easy carry, a 1/4 in. hex quick‑eject chuck for rapid bit changes, and a lifetime service agreement (with registration) that adds confidence for contractors who rely on tool durability.

Best for: Entry-level buyers or those on a tight budget — the Ridgid 18V Brushless offers Max Torque: 2200‑2300 in‑lb

Avoid if: Ultra‑precision electronics work is your primary need, as the high torque can damage delicate components