The Best Electric Screwdrivers in 2023

Whatever you’re planning to do in your garden, keep safe and wear safety glasses when you’re using an electric screwdriver.

An electric screwdriver is the perfect companion to a drill, saving you constantly changing drill bits and allowing you to simple go from a drill to screwdriver when you want to drill holes as well as drive in screws. For help choosing a cordless drill take a look at our review of the best cordless drills, and our guide to the best drill bits. For manual screwdrivers, we can recommend our article on the best screwdriver sets. For more hand DIY tools, take a look at our guide to the best multi-tools.

If you're looking for garden DIY inspiration, consider our 10 garden DIY projects for the weekend, or our guide on how to build a bat box. For other tool reviews, check out our reviews of the best hammers, best pressure washers, and the best grass strimmers.

The best electric screwdrivers to buy at a glance

• Best Buy small electric screwdriver: Bosch IXO 7
• Best Buy for one handed use: WORX WX255
• Best Buy for precision: Bosch pushdrive
• Best Buy for powerful : BLACK + DECKER 3.6V rapid driver
• Best Buy for accessories: Draper Storm Force 4V multi-function screwdriver

Jump to:

• Best Buy electric screwdrivers
• Best of the rest
• How to use an electric screwdriver
• Is an electric screwdriver the same as a drill?
• What are electric screwdrivers good for?
• How powerful should an electric screwdriver be?
• What’s a torque selector?
• How we tested electric screwdrivers

In every review we award the outstanding products our coveted Best Buy award. To see these and the others we recommend, browse our pick of the best electric screwdrivers below:

Best Buy electric screwdrivers

Bosch IXO 7 cordless screwdriver

RRP: £65

Our rating: 4.5/5

• Buy now from Keen Gardener (£53.11), Tooled-Up (£66.95), Currys (£64.99)

Pros:

• Superior battery size for longer run time
• Unbelievable Impressive amount of power available
• Two useful accessories included
• Bright LED work light

Cons:

• No torque selector function

Awarded a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy for a small electric screwdriver, the IXO is on its 7th generation, and boasts a huge amount of power with a high capacity battery, all in a modest and lightweight package. The shape of the handle is ergonomically designed and features plenty of grippy textured sections. The large trigger is easy to control, and you can’t easily knock the direction selector during use, which was an issue on previous IXO drivers. It packs a huge amount of power in, with 5.5 Nm of turning force, or torque, and with a whopping micro USB charged 2.0 Ah battery it will drive up to 190 screws on a single charge at 235 rpm – plus a helpful charge level indicator lets you know how much life you have left .The 360° ring light on the front does a good job of illuminating the work area, and this version even comes with a pair of accessories- a right angle and off-set adapter for working in tight areas. It comes in a small plastic case that contains a modest but quality selection of screwdriver bits.

WORX WX255 4 volt SD slide driver with screw holder

RRP: £44.99

Our rating: 4.5/5

• Buy now from WORX (£44.99), ITS (£44.99), Ebay (£44.99)

Pros:

• One handed operation
• Quickly change between six bits
• Satisfying slide action
• Pilot hole drill bit included

Cons:

• No torque selector function
• No charge level indicator to see how much power you have left

The WORX WX255 is an impressive and versatile electric screwdriver. It’s lightweight at just 500 g, boasts a comfy rubberised grip, and the internal battery is charged by micro USB. It has earned itself the BBC Gardeners' World Magazine Best Buy award for best one handed electric screwdriver, because of the way you can easily change bits. The top of the tool slides back to reveal a six round magazine filled with different screwdriver bits and this can be completely removed, allowing you to fit your own selection of standard screwdriver bits, which is rather handy. The best feature on this electric screwdriver though, is the screw holder. It’s an ingenious accessory that grips the screw for you and is ideal for anyone with mobility issues or for driving screws one handed above your head. It's only rated to 3 Nm of torque, but that’s enough for putting together flat pack furniture or building your own hedgehog house. The only thing it lacks is an adjustable handle for working in tight spaces.

Bosch pushdrive cordless screwdriver

RRP: £66.99

Our rating: 4.5/5

• Buy now from Tooled-Up (£61.95), Amazon (£58.99), Halfords (£66)

Pros:

• Intuitive and clever design
• Surprisingly powerful
• Can be used as a manual screwdriver
• Torque selector function

Cons:

• Takes some getting used to
• Case is a bit flimsy

Bosch have created a clever electric screwdriver that you’ll know how to use, purely on instinct. It has a surprising amount of power and is simple to handle thanks to their “Push&Go” technology - there’s no trigger to pull on this screwdriver, the motor engages when it senses pressure on the tip of the screwdriver, and this earnt it a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy award for a precision electric screwdriver. There’s plenty of grippy rubber that runs the length of the tool, and even a cover that keeps dust and dirt from getting into the micro USB charging port. You can select from six different torque settings from 2.5 – 5 Nm for working on hard or soft materials, and the single speed motor runs at a reasonable 360 rpm. When the direction selector is in the locked position, it performs just like a conventional screwdriver, which is useful for delicate jobs, or when you’ve forgotten to charge the battery. It comes in a plastic case that holds 32 decent quality bits, including Torx and hex bits. The only downside is that you need to hold on tight when it’s set to a high torque setting. It can twist your wrist if you’re not paying attention.

BLACK + DECKER 3.6V rapid driver screwdriver

RRP: £30

Our rating: 4.5/5

• Buy now from Toolstation (£24.98), B&Q (£27), Tooled-Up (£26.95)

Pros:

• Really powerful
• Sturdy carry case
• Large trigger
• Drives 500 screws on a single charge

Cons:

• No charge level indicator
• No torque selector function

The Rapid Driver Screwdriver is a deceptively powerful tool that packs a punch inside its miniature frame. Putting out a class leading 5.5 Nm of torque, this little screwdriver doesn’t hesitate to drive home long screws. The direction selector sits on the top of the tool and is operated with the thumb, so you can’t accidentally change direction halfway through the job. The hard case is a welcome feature that keeps the driver safe between tasks, holds the ten included bits securely, and even gives you extra space for odds and ends. Something we really like though is the recess in the case that allows you to charge the driver up via micro USB even when the lid is shut. It’s a thoughtful inclusion that makes a lot of sense. We’ve awarded it the BBC Gardeners' World Magazine Best Buy award for a powerful electric screwdriver.

Draper storm force 4V multi-function screwdriver and cutting tool

RRP: £44.99

Our rating: 4.3/5

• Buy now from Robert Dyas and B&Q

Pros:

• Excellent selection of accessories
• Easily cuts through card and fabrics
• Twin LED work lights
• One hour charger

Cons:

• Not the most powerful motor
• No torque selector function

We’ve awarded this clever little tool the BBC Gardeners' World Magazine Best Buy award for excellent accessories because it comes with four different detachable heads for different jobs. You get a right-angle head, an eccentric head for screwing adjacent to walls or corners, a torque head that means you can screw into delicate materials, and a unique cutting device that’s perfect for card and other thin sheet materials. It can make 4 Nm of torque, and it all comes neatly packed in a hard case that holds 27 different screwdriver bits. It’s charged via USB, and there’s a charge level indicator on the top. The handle is well shaped and there’s plenty of rubber on there for grip, and although the handle doesn’t adjust, one of the four attachments will get you into (and out of) most tight spots.

The best of the rest

Although some models didn't quite achieve a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy award, they still have great features that make them worth recommending. Browse our pick of the best of the rest on test.

Makita DF001DW in-line cordless screwdriver

RRP: £70.41

Our rating: 4.3/5

• Buy now from Screwfix (£56.79), Amazon (£69.99), Ebay (£69.97)

Pros:

• Extensive 81-piece screwdriver bit set
• Plenty of torque available
• Adjustable handle

Cons:

• A bit awkward to use at first
• Not the brightest LED work light
• No torque selector

Makita make a huge range of professional level tools, but this little screwdriver is more suitable for light work. It’s a 3.6 Volt screwdriver that produces an impressive 6 Nm of torque. The adjustable handle makes it nearly 30 cm long in in-line mode, which is good for getting into awkward spots, but in “gun mode” the handle and trigger are a bit cumbersome. There’s no torque selector, but you still have good control thanks to the large handle. You charge the internal 1.5 Ah battery via micro-USB, it comes in a quality plastic case with a thoughtful selection of quality bits, but the single LED work light is a bit dim.

Ryobi 4V cordless ERGO screwdriver

RRP: £33.99

Our rating: 4.3/5

• Buy now from B&Q (£40), TradePoint (£40), Ebay (£69.97)

Pros:

• Comfortable and ergonomic handle
• Huge trigger
• 4 Volt battery power
• You can use it as a torch

Cons:

• Lacks a torque selector

The ERGO electric screwdriver is a hugely comfortable tool to use, whether you’re changing the blade on your lawn mower or even building a compost bin. The trigger extends almost all the way to the bottom of the handle so it’s easy to use if you’re wearing gloves. The powerful 4 Volt Lithium ion battery is charged via micro USB and provides 5 Nm of torque. It spins bits round at a manageable 200 rpm, and because it’s 1.5 Ah it lasts for a long time too. It also includes a single bright LED work, which you can use while the screwdriver is in the locked position. It all comes in a translucent plastic box with a zip around it, along with a modest collection of 10 different bits. The ERGO is compatible with a couple of different accessories like a right angle driver, but unfortunately, they’re not included.

Mac Allister MSD36-Li cordless screwdriver

RRP: £20

Our rating: 3.5/5

• Buy now from B&Q (£15)

Pros:

• Bright four LED work light
• Torque selector function
• Adjustable handle

Cons:

• No carry case included
• Lacks variable speed
• Tiny selection of screwdriver bits

The MSD36-Li is a low cost 3.6 Volt powered electric screwdriver that comes with a surprising number of features. The battery has a 1.3 Ah capacity, and it can make up to 5 Nm of torque. By pressing a button on the top of the tool, you can turn the handle from a gun shape to an inline electric screwdriver that can fit into narrow spaces. The handle is comfortable and big enough for someone with large hands, there’s a charge level indicator, and you can employ a seriously bright four-LED work light on one end. You don’t get a case though, and only a few screwdriver bits to play with.

Titan TTS870DRS li-ion cordless screwdriver

RRP: £17.98

Our rating: 3.5/5

• Buy now from Screwfix (£17.98)

Pros:

• Affordable electric screwdriver
• Bright four-LED torch included
• Torque selector function

Cons:

• Not the most comfortable to use
• Small selection of bits

The Titan brand of tools is familiar to anyone who uses Screwfix for their home and garden projects, and their adjustable handle electric screwdriver is budget friendly piece of kit. Boasting a maximum 5 Nm of torque and making 200 rpm, the onboard 1.3 Ah battery charges in an hour. It’s comfortable enough to hold on to and the bits are held in mechanically rather than with a magnet. You can adjust the handle from inline to gun shape with the press of a button, and the torque selector ring means you can control how much power the screwdriver will apply to a screw before it cuts out. You get a single LED work light on the front and even a dazzling four-LED work light on the other end. It’s a basic model that doesn’t come in a case, but for the price it’s a very useful tool to have around.

Draper 3.6V cordless li-ion screwdriver kit

RRP: £32.32

Our rating: 3.5/5

• Buy now from Amazon (£32.70), HGV Direct (£24.49), Toolstation (£34.98)

Pros:

• Excellent selection of bits
• Adjustable handle
• Torque selector function

Cons:

• Not the most powerful motor
• Not USB charging compatible

Supplied with a dazzling array of 55 different screwdriver bits, this handy budget electric screwdriver from Draper is like a whole toolbox in a single package. Sporting a reasonably comfy grip shape and adjustable handle, you can convert it from a gun shape to an inline screwdriver by pressing a button for getting into tight corners. There’s a clear plastic case to keep everything together and a single LED to light the way. It’s just a shame that instead of the widely used micro USB charging cable, it comes with a sluggish non-standard charger that you really don’t want to lose.

How to use an electric screwdriver?

Instead of carrying around a toolbox full of different screwdrivers, one of the best things about an electric screwdriver is the exchangeable bits. Held in place with a magnet or locking sleeve, you can choose from an enormous range of screwdriver bits to fit every type of screw or bolt. And changing screwdriver bits is as simple as pulling it out from the bit holder and putting in another one.

Follow these simple steps to get the most from an electric screwdriver:

1. Make sure your batteries are fully charged before you start, so you get enough power from your electric screwdriver.
2. Choose the right bit for the job. There are a huge number of different fixings out there, and picking the right one will make the job much easier. Test out a few different ones until you find the right fit.
3. Inspect the screwdriver bit, looking for any damage or excessive wear. A broken or worn bit will not engage with or could even damage a screw or other fixing. If it looks bad, pop in a new one.
4. Fix the bit into the screwdriver bit holder and select the right torque setting (if you have one) for the job. If you’re screwing into a soft surface, use a lower setting.
5. Select forward or reverse on the rotation switch. Remember, right is tight, and left is loose.
6. Push the screwdriver bit firmly into the head of the screw and pull the trigger. Keep even and direct pressure on the screw to stop it slipping out or damaging the screw head.

Is an electric screwdriver the same as a drill?

They might look similar, but an electric screwdriver and a drill are not the same thing. The main difference is power. A drill needs a lot of power to make holes in materials like wood or metal, so they come with a powerful motor and a heavy battery, which is why they’re a lot bigger and weigh more than an electric screwdriver.
Drills can spin much faster as well. A typical combi drill can reach speeds of up to 2,000 rpm, while an electric screwdriver might only need to produce 200 rpm. Because they don’t need to produce lots of torque or speed, electric screwdrivers can be much smaller, lighter weight, and much easier to use.

What are electric screwdrivers good for?

An electric screwdriver is a good replacement for a manual one, especially if you have mobility issues, saving you time and effort. It performs the physical action of driving a screw in or out, leaving you free to concentrate on keeping the tool steady.
And, as you simply change the bits in the end of an electric screwdriver, you can easily carry around the equivalent of a whole toolbox full of manual screwdrivers. A small electric screwdriver won’t replace a heavy duty combi drill for driving home huge decking screws or concrete anchors, but it’s an ideal companion for anyone who does home or garden DIY.

How powerful should an electric screwdriver be?

The most powerful electric screwdriver on our list is rated at 5.5 Nm of torque. That’s enough to drive a screw into a piece of soft timber, especially if you have drilled a pilot hole first. It’s powerful enough to put together flat pack garden furniture and much faster than using a manual screwdriver as well.

What’s a torque selector?

A torque selector allows you to control the turning power, or torque, on your electric screwdriver, or drill. Usually numbered and controlled by a selector ring just behind the bit holder, the higher the number the more power the screwdriver will put into the screw. If you’re working with delicate surfaces or you don’t want to overtighten a screw, you select a lower number, but if you want to drive a large diameter screw into a piece of wood, you’ll need to choose a higher number.

How we tested electric screwdrivers

The BBC Gardeners' World Magazine reviews team tested a range of electric screwdrivers with each used to drive a variety of screws into different materials to see how they fared. They were assessed according to the following criteria with equal marks attributed to each:

• Ease of use: Assessed the battery size, maximum run time, and charging time. Also, how easy it was to change screwdriver bits and considered the different accessories and bits that were included.
• Comfort: Focused on the handle shape, ergonomics, size, and weight of the screwdriver, and how comfortable it was to use in different positions and places.
• Performance: Judged the power, speed, and torque in various materials and screw sizes.
• Value for money: Considered all the above as well as accessories and cases included, and quality, design, warranty, and price.

For more information on our testing process, see How we review

This Review was last updated in June 2023. We apologise if the price or availability of the reviewed products have changed.