Both drills and electric screwdrivers are useful power tools for driving screws and making holes. Choosing between a drill and electric screwdriver depends on the specific needs of the user.
Drills are versatile tools that can make holes and drive screws, while electric screwdrivers are optimized for driving screws only. Drills have higher power and torque for heavy-duty tasks, while electric screwdrivers are more convenient for repetitive screwdriving jobs. Key factors to consider are power, versatility, precision, comfort, and cost.
This article compares drills and electric screwdrivers on five main criteria:
- Power and torque
- Versatility
- Precision
- Comfort and ergonomics
- Cost
Examining these factors will help shed light on the ideal uses and benefits of each tool.
Power and Torque
Power and torque are important considerations when choosing between a drill and electric screwdriver.
Drills have significantly higher power and torque capabilities compared to electric screwdrivers. A typical drill produces between 300-1000 watts of power. Higher-end drills can put out well over 1000 watts. This enables them to handle demanding tasks like drilling through tough materials or driving large screws.
In contrast, electric screwdrivers generate around 100-200 watts. Some high-end screwdrivers may produce up to 300 watts. While fine for most basic screwdriving tasks, this lower power restricts their capabilities.
Torque measures rotational force. Again, drills deliver substantially higher torque – usually 30-80 Nm for cordless models. This gives them the grunt to bore large holes and overcome resistance from long or stuck screws.
Electric screwdrivers have relatively low torque in the range of 5-25 Nm. Enough for driving regular screws into wood or drywall, but they can stall on tougher materials or large fasteners.
Power and Torque Advantages
Drills:
- Higher power for demanding tasks
- More torque for driving large screws and boring holes in tough materials
Electric Screwdrivers:
- Adequate power for basic screwdriving
So for heavy-duty use or challenging projects, a drill’s extra power and torque makes it a better choice over a basic electric screwdriver.
Versatility
In addition to driving screws, drills are highly versatile tools capable of:
- Boring holes in wood, metal, masonry and other materials
- Mixing paint and other compounds
- Sanding and polishing with attachments
- Driving various accessories like hole saws, wire brushes and more
This versatility makes a drill an extremely useful tool for almost any DIYer or professional. They can handle a wide range of drilling, driving, grinding, mixing and other rotary applications – often with just a simple accessory change.
Electric screwdrivers are designed solely for driving screws. While they can do this quite efficiently, they lack the flexibility to drill holes or perform other jobs. Some models allow fitting basic attachments like nut drivers or hex bits, but the range of accessories is still far more limited compared to a drill.
Versatility Advantages
Drills:
- Highly versatile – can drill, drive, grind, mix, polish and more
- Accept a wide range of interchangeable accessories
Electric Screwdrivers:
- Limited to just driving screws
- Few accessory options beyond screwdriving bits
So anyone who needs to cut holes or perform other rotary tasks will benefit from the superior versatility of a drill. But for those just needing to sink screws, an electric screwdriver may suffice.
Precision
Precision is important when driving screws, particularly in materials like woodwork where you don’t want to split the material. Electric screwdrivers provide better precision and control compared to drills.
Electric screwdrivers use a planetary gearset that allows precise torque control. Most have a variable speed trigger and settings for different torque levels or screw sizes. This permits accurate starting and driving of screws for a professional finish. And some electric screwdrivers have a clutch that disengages torque when a screw reaches optimal depth to prevent over-tightening.
Drills typically have more basic 2-speed gearboxes optimized for faster drilling rather than meticulous screwdriving. Variable triggers help control speed, but they lack the precise torque control of an electric screwdriver. A drill’s extra power also raises the risk of damaging materials or screws with excessive force.
However, high-end drills do offer features for improved precision. These include:
- Clutches to set specific torque levels
- Adjustable speed transmissions for slower control
- Electronic torque control for accuracy
Precision Advantages
Electric Screwdrivers:
- Planetary gears allow excellent torque control
- Variable speed triggers for starting/driving precision
- Preset torque settings match force to screw size
- Clutches prevent over-tightening
Drills:
- Basic gearboxes lack fine torque adjustment
- Higher power raises risk of damage
- Advanced models have improved precision features
For jobs demanding high accuracy like carpentry or electronics, an electric screwdriver’s superior precision gives it an edge over a standard drill.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Using power tools for extended periods can strain the body, so comfort and ergonomics are worthwhile considerations when choosing between a drill and electric screwdriver.
In general, electric screwdrivers offer better comfort and ergonomics. Their compact inline design, smaller size, and pistol grip make them easier to handle and manipulate in tight spaces. And since screwdriving tasks involve less overall torque, electric screwdrivers minimize strain on the wrists and arms during use.
Drills tend to be larger and heavier, especially powerful cordless models. Their bulkier conventional T-handle design is optimized for two-handed drilling stability rather than comfort. Long periods of overhead or one-handed screwdriving can become tiring with an heavier drill.
However, differences in comfort depend somewhat on the specific models compared:
- Smaller cordless drills are more compact and easier to handle
- Pistol grip adapters can improve drill ergonomics
- High power electric screwdrivers are heavier than smaller models
Comfort and Ergonomics Advantages
Electric Screwdrivers:
- Inline design fits easily in tight spaces
- Pistol grip allows excellent handling and control
- Lightweight compared to drills
- Minimizes fatigue for extended use
Drills:
- Larger size and weight becomes tiring over time
- Standard T-handle less ergonomic for screwdriving tasks
- Cordless and pistol grip models are more comfortable
If working for long periods or overhead, an electric screwdriver’s superior ergonomics provide an advantage. But for occasional tasks, a drill with pistol grip may suffice.
Cost
When evaluating the costs of drills versus electric screwdrivers, two main factors come into play:
- Purchase price
- Ongoing costs due to versatility
In terms of upfront purchase price, basic electric screwdrivers are generally cheaper than drills:
| Tool | Typical Price Range |
| Cordless drill | $80 – $500 |
| Electric screwdriver | $30 – $200 |
Higher-end drills with advanced features can run over $500, while heavy-duty professional electric screwdrivers go up to $300+. But on average, an electric screwdriver will cost noticeably less initially.
However, when factoring in ongoing costs, drills gain an advantage thanks to their versatility:
- A single drill replaces the need for several specialized tools – reducing overall purchases
- Interchangeable accessories like drill and screwdriver bits further reduce costs
- Versatility continues paying off as new tasks arise
So while electric screwdrivers have lower upfront cost, a versatile drill can save money in the long run by consolidating tool needs.
Cost Advantages
Electric Screwdriver:
- Lower purchase price
Drill:
- Versatility replaces multiple tools over time – saving costs
- Interchangeable accessories lower ongoing costs
For those just needing to drive screws occasionally, an electric screwdriver’s lower price may suffice. But the versatility of a drill makes it a better investment for most DIYers’ long term needs.
Conclusion
To summarize the key differences:
- Drills have more power and torque for heavy duties
- Electric screwdrivers provide better precision and control
- Drills are highly versatile, electric screwdrivers just drive screws
- Electric screwdrivers offer superior comfort and ergonomics
- Drills cost more initially but can save long-term via versatility
For professionals or avid DIYers needing to drill holes and drive various materials, a drill is generally the best choice. Their added power, versatility and long term cost savings make them a great all-round tool.
However, for basic repetitive screwdriving tasks, electric screwdrivers excel. Models with adjustable torque and ergonomic handling make screwdriving easier and more precise. This precision is critical forfinish work like cabinetry, furniture and electronics.
Here are some final recommendations based on key needs:
Best for power and versatility – Drill
If you need to drill holes and drive large screws, a drill’s power and versatility can’t be beat. Their flexible capabilities will prove useful for years to come.
Best for precision driving – Electric Screwdriver
For delicate finish work, the finessed precision of an electric screwdriver prevents damage. Features like torque control and clutches ensure perfect results.
Best for comfort and ergonomics – Electric Screwdriver
The compact shape and lighter weight of electric screwdrivers reduces fatigue over extended use. For long jobs overhead or in awkward positions, electric screwdrivers cause less strain.
Best for occasional use – Cheap Electric Screwdriver
For only occasional driving tasks, a budget electric screwdriver gets the job done with minimal investment. Paying extra for advanced features isn’t worthwhile.
In summary, for most homeowners needing a versatile, powerful tool – a drill is the best bet. Professional carpenters are better served by the precision of electric screwdrivers. And anyone working for extended periods overhead does less damage to their body with an ergonomic electric screwdriver.
Consider your own needs and uses to decide if a drill or electric screwdriver makes the most sense for you. And remember, having both in your toolkit gives the flexibility to select the best tool for each job.