Best 20V MAX Compact Impact Drivers

TL;DR: The DEWALT DCF809B packs 1,700 in‑lbs of torque, a 3‑speed brushless motor and three LEDs into a 9‑in, 2‑lb tool that feels solid enough for pros yet stays affordable at $79.98.

What really sets this driver apart is its 1,700 in‑lb maximum torque, delivered by a brushless motor and a three‑speed variable‑trigger system. At 9.0 in long, 5.75 in wide and just 2.0 lb, the tool balances power and portability while keeping the pistol‑grip ergonomics that contractors love.

Compared with the six other impact drivers in this roundup, the DCF809B sits in the middle of the size spectrum. It’s heavier than the Milwaukee M12 Subcompact’s 1.3 lb frame, but lighter than the Klein Tools BAT20CD at 2.2 lb. Its 1,700 in‑lb torque outstrips Milwaukee’s 1,100 in‑lb and even exceeds the Metabo HPT WH18DEX’s 1,549 in‑lb, while still matching the 20 V platform that the Milwaukee and Klein tools use. The DCF809B’s length of 9.0 in is longer than Milwaukee’s 4.3 in, giving a more traditional feel, yet it remains compact enough to slip into tight cabinetry where larger drivers struggle.

Users consistently highlight the driver’s “compact power‑to‑size ratio” and the usefulness of the integrated three‑LED work light when working in dim corners. Professional reviewers note that the three‑speed control delivers “precise work on delicate surfaces while retaining full power,” echoing the sentiment of everyday users who appreciate the smooth variable trigger. The main trade‑off mentioned in reviews is that the DCF809B is sold as a tool‑only model, so you’ll need to purchase a 20 V MAX battery and charger separately, and the 1‑inch bit tip may require an adapter for some applications.

Beyond torque, the driver benefits from a 20 V MAX lithium‑ion system that works with over 300 Dewalt tools, a belt‑clip for easy carry, and a 1/4‑inch hex chuck that accepts standard impact bits. The three LEDs illuminate the work area, and the brushless motor is tuned for durability and consistent performance across its three speed settings.

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 a larger grip, need specialty bit sizes, or want a fully bundled kit out of the box

TL;DR: The SKIL PWR CORE 20 2‑Tool Combo delivers 450 in‑lb of torque, a brushless 20 V motor and a lightweight 1.6‑lb design for solid DIY performance at a premium price.

What really stands out is the 450 in‑lb of max torque paired with a brushless digital motor. The two‑speed gearbox (low and high) and a variable‑speed trigger let you dial in power from 0–500 RPM up to 0–1 800 RPM, while the 1/2‑inch keyless chuck accepts a wide range of bits. A 2.0 Ah lithium‑ion battery supplies the 20 V platform, and the included fast charger uses a USB‑C port for quick top‑ups.

Compared with the six other drivers in this roundup, the SKIL weighs in at 1.6 lb, making it lighter than the Metabo HPT KC18DFX and the DEWALT DCF809B, but a touch heavier than the ultra‑light Milwaukee M12 Subcompact (1.3 lb). Its 450 in‑lb torque sits below the DEWALT’s 1 700 in‑lb and Milwaukee’s 1 100 in‑lb, so it’s geared toward general fastening rather than heavy‑duty work. Speed‑wise, the 1 800 RPM ceiling is modest compared with Milwaukee’s 3 000 RPM and Klein Tools’ 2 200 RPM, but it still outpaces the lower‑end 500 RPM range of some competitors.

Reviewers consistently praise the brushless motor for durability and the compact 6.06‑in head for overhead comfort. The built‑in LED with a 10‑minute afterglow is highlighted as handy in dim spaces, and the two‑speed gearbox gets a nod for balancing control and efficiency. On the downside, users note that long‑term reliability data is scarce, and the 4.5‑star rating, while solid, trails the very highest scores in the category. The premium price tag also makes it a bigger investment than some sub‑compact rivals.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the SKIL PWR CORE 20 2‑Tool Combo Kit offers Max Torque: 450 inch‑pounds

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

TL;DR: The Metabo HPT KC18DFX packs 1,859 in‑lbs of impact‑driver torque, a 30,000 BPM hammer‑drill rate and brushless MultiVolt power in a 2‑pound, ergonomically balanced package.

The standout figure is the 1,859 in‑lbs of maximum torque on the impact‑driver side, backed by a 30,000 BPM impact rate on the hammer‑drill side. Those numbers sit at the top of the impact‑driver segment and give the tool the muscle to drive large fasteners through dense wood or metal without stalling.

Compared with the six other tools in this roundup, the KC18DFX is heavier than the Milwaukee M12 Subcompact (1.3 lb) and the SKIL PWR CORE 20 (1.6 lb bare) but matches the DEWALT DCF809B at 2.0 lb. Its 9.84‑inch height and 11.81‑inch length make it taller and longer than the DEWALT (3.06 in high, 9.0 in long) and the Milwaukee (6.0 in high, 4.3 in long), while its 3.15‑inch width is slimmer than the DEWALT’s 5.75 in but a bit wider than the SKIL 20’s 2.65 in. Torque-wise, it out‑torques the Milwaukee’s 1,100 in‑lbs and the DEWALT’s 1,700 in‑lbs, and it exceeds the WH18DEX’s 1,549 in‑lbs. Its 4,000 IPM impact rate sits just below the Milwaukee’s 4,100 IPM but well above the Klein Tools 2,200 IPM and the WH18DEX’s 3,400 IPM.

Reviewers consistently praise the Triple Hammer technology and Reactive Force Control (RFC) gyro sensor, noting that the tool feels smoother and kick‑back is noticeably reduced during heavy drilling. Contractors also like the 18 V MultiVolt battery system, which can be swapped for 36 V packs when extra power is needed. On the downside, users mention that the tool feels a bit bulky when the batteries are attached, and a few have reported occasional binding without an auxiliary handle during prolonged use.

Additional technical context includes a brushless motor for longer life, a 4‑stage electronic speed switch for fine control, and integrated LEDs that illuminate both the hammer‑drill and impact‑driver heads. The combo kit comes with two lithium‑ion MultiVolt batteries, a charger and a carrying bag, rounding out a professional‑grade package.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the Metabo HPT KC18DFX offers Chuck Size (Hammer Drill): 1/2‑inch keyless all‑metal

Avoid if: You need the absolute lightest tool for long‑duration use or require the very highest peak impact rates found in specialty models.

TL;DR: The Klein Tools BAT20CD packs a brushless motor, 210 ft‑lb torque and 2200 IPM in a compact 3.15‑inch high, 2.2‑lb body, but it comes as a tool‑only kit at $196.49.

The BAT20CD’s standout spec is its 210 ft‑lb (2520 in‑lb) maximum torque, delivered by a brushless motor that spins up to 2200 RPM and strikes at 2200 IPM. Its 1/4‑inch hex quick‑connect chuck and variable‑speed trigger let you dial in power for fasteners or delicate work. A single LED and a safety lockout switch round out a design aimed at professional use.

Compared with the other six drivers in this roundup, the Klein is a bit heavier than the Milwaukee M12 Subcompact’s 1.3 lb body, yet still lighter than the Metabo HPT KC18DFX at 2.0 lb. Its torque of 2520 in‑lb exceeds the DEWALT DCF809B’s 1,700 in‑lb, giving it a clear edge for demanding fastening. However, it is priced higher than the DEWALT model and sits above the budget‑focused options.

Reviewers consistently praise the high torque and the compact 3.15‑inch height, noting that the driver fits into tight spaces on job sites. Professionals also like the brushless motor’s efficiency and the variable‑speed control for precision. The main criticisms focus on the tool‑only configuration, which forces you to buy separate DeWALT 20 V batteries and a charger, and the premium price tag.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the Klein Tools BAT20CD offers Height: 3.15 inches

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $196.49

TL;DR: The Metabo HPT WH18DEX packs 1549 in‑lb of torque, a brushless motor and Triple‑Hammer vibration reduction into a compact 2‑lb, 4.5‑inch wide impact driver priced at $129.

The standout spec is its 1549 in‑lb of maximum torque, which places it among the strongest 18‑V drivers on the market. Coupled with a brushless motor and Triple‑Hammer technology, the tool claims noticeably lower vibration during heavy fastening.

At 2.0 lb, it is heavier than the Milwaukee M12 Subcompact’s 1.3 lb body and the SKIL PWR CORE 20’s 1.6 lb driver, but lighter than the SKIL PWR CORE 12V combo’s 5.09 lb overall kit and the Klein Tools BAT20CD’s 2.2 lb unit. Its torque exceeds the Metabo HPT KC18DFX’s listed 1240 in‑lb (hammer‑drill mode) and the Milwaukee’s 1100 in‑lb, yet falls short of the DEWALT DCF809B’s 1700 in‑lb.

Users consistently praise the driver’s powerful performance and compact size, noting that the Triple‑Hammer mechanism makes long sessions comfortable. Common criticisms focus on the 2.0 Ah batteries limiting runtime on demanding jobs and a maximum RPM of 3100, which is lower than some higher‑voltage rivals. Professional reviewers also highlight the solid IP56 protection and the three‑LED lighting that cuts shadows in tight spaces.

Best for: Most users seeking a balanced, mainstream option — the Metabo HPT WH18DEX 4-inch offers Max Torque: 1549

Avoid if: You need the highest RPM or extended runtime without swapping batteries

TL;DR: The Milwaukee M12 Subcompact packs 1100 in‑lbs of torque, a 4100 IPM impact rate and a 4.3‑inch length into a 1.3‑lb brushless driver that’s perfect for tight‑space work, though it falls short of higher‑torque 18 V rivals.

The standout spec is its ultra‑compact size: at just 4.3 inches long and 1.3 lb bare, it slips into places most impact drivers can’t reach. Its brushless POWERSTATE motor delivers 3000 RPM and 1100 in‑lbs of torque, while the 4100 IPM impact rate keeps fast fastening cycles.

Compared with the six other drivers in this roundup, the M12 is the lightest—well under the DEWALT DCF809B’s 2.0 lb and lighter than the Metabo HPT WH18DEX (2.0 lb) and Klein BAT20CD (2.2 lb). It’s also shorter than the DEWALT’s 9.0‑inch length and the SKIL 12 V combo’s 6.06‑inch tool length, though its overall height (6.0 in) is taller than DEWALT’s 3.06 in. Torque-wise, it trails the DEWALT’s 1,700 in‑lbs, Metabo HPT WH18DEX’s 1,549 in‑lbs, and the Metabo HPT KC18DFX’s 1,240 in‑lbs, but it offers more speed settings (4) than DEWALT’s 3‑speed mode. LED illumination matches the 3‑LED count of the DEWALT and Metabo HPT WH18DEX, and its 12 V system is lower voltage than DEWALT’s 20 V MAX.

Professional reviewers call it the “fastest subcompact impact driver” thanks to its 4100 IPM rate, and users consistently praise the tiny 4.3‑inch form factor for accessing cramped electrical panels and plumbing fittings. The same reviewers note the lower torque limits its usefulness on heavy‑duty structural fasteners, a sentiment echoed by consumers who prefer larger 18 V models for big jobs. The tool ships bare, so you’ll need a compatible M12 battery and charger, which adds an extra purchase step.

Technical extras include REDLINK Intelligence for overload and temperature protection, a tri‑LED light for work‑area visibility, and a variable‑speed trigger that lets you dial in power precisely. With four speed settings and a 12 V lithium‑ion platform, it integrates seamlessly into Milwaukee’s 150‑plus‑tool M12 ecosystem.

Best for: Professionals needing compact tools in tight spaces, the Milwaukee M12 Subcompact offers Max Torque: 1100 in‑lbs.

Avoid if: You want the best value‑per‑dollar in its price range or need higher torque for heavy‑duty structural fastening.

TL;DR: The SKIL PWR CORE 12V 2‑Tool Combo Kit packs a brushless motor, 350 in‑lbs of torque and a USB‑C charger into a compact, 5.09‑lb package for DIY‑level projects.

What really stands out is the 350 in‑lbs of max torque delivered by a 12 V brushless motor, paired with a 17+1 clutch that lets you fine‑tune torque for delicate screw‑driving. The impact driver also sports a 1/2‑in. single‑sleeve keyless chuck and a 1/4‑in. hex for quick bit changes. On the lighting side, the built‑in LED offers pre‑light and after‑glow, which professionals say helps keep the work area illuminated for up to 10 minutes.

Compared with the six other tools in this roundup, the SKIL combo is heavier than the DEWALT DCF809B (2.0 lb) and the Milwaukee M12 Subcompact (1.3 lb), and its 350 in‑lbs torque sits well below the DEWALT’s 1,700 in‑lbs and the Milwaukee’s 1,100 in‑lbs. It also offers fewer speed settings than the DEWALT’s three‑speed impact driver and the Milwaukee’s four‑mode system. However, its 12 V platform and included 2.0 Ah battery keep the price around $99, positioning it as a budget‑friendly entry point.

Customer sentiment is positive enough to earn a 4.5‑star rating from two reviewers, who highlight the tool’s compact length (6.06 in.) and the convenience of the USB‑C charger that supplies 60 W of output power. Professional reviewers note the “surprising power and speed output” for a 12 V brushless motor and praise the reliable chuck. The main complaints focus on runtime – a single 2.0 Ah battery can feel short during prolonged jobs – and the overall weight with battery (2.90 lb) being a bit higher than the lightest competitors.

Beyond torque, the kit includes a 20 W USB‑C charger, a 2.0 Ah lithium‑ion battery, and a 60 W USB output that can charge other devices. The digital brushless motor promises longer tool life, and the onboard belt clip adds portability for tight‑space work.

Best for: Entry‑level buyers or those on a tight budget — the SKIL PWR CORE 12V 2‑Tool Combo Kit offers Max Torque: 350 in‑lbs

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