Best Impact Driver Under £50
Finding a capable impact driver for under £50 is easier than ever, with modern budget models offering surprising torque for driving screws into timber and light metal. We have compared the best options based on published specs, battery ecosystems, and owner reviews to help you choose the right tool.
Quick answer
For the best overall impact driver under £50, the Ryobi RID18-0 offers the strongest torque and a vast battery system for the price. If you need a bare tool to match an existing kit, the Einhell TE-ID 18 Li is a solid budget-friendly performer.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
- No fake hands-on claims
Research updated June 2026.
Ryobi RID18-0
High torque and great value for the Ryobi ONE+ system.
| Product | Best For | Max Torque | Rating | Bare Tool? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ryobi RID18-0 | Best Overall | 180 Nm | 4.6/5 | Yes |
| Einhell TE-ID 18 Li | Budget Value | 160 Nm | 4.3/5 | Yes |
| Bosch GDX 18V-200 | Versatility | 200 Nm | 4.5/5 | Yes |
| Stanley SCD20 | Entry-Level Kit | 150 Nm | 4.0/5 | No (kit) |
| Makita DTW300Z | High Torque (Used) | 330 Nm | 4.7/5 | Yes |
Ryobi RID18-0
Best OverallPros
- Excellent torque for the price
- Part of the vast Ryobi ONE+ system
- Compact and lightweight design
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- No variable speed trigger on some models
The Ryobi RID18-0 is a bare unit that delivers 180 Nm of torque, making it powerful enough for most DIY tasks like decking and large timber screws. Owner reviews consistently praise its balance and reliability, especially when paired with a 4.0 Ah battery from the ONE+ range.
It is a no-frills tool that focuses on getting the job done without breaking the bank. While it lacks the premium feel of higher-end models, its performance and the sheer range of compatible tools make it a smart long-term investment for any homeowner.
Einhell TE-ID 18 Li
Best Budget ValuePros
- Very affordable bare tool price
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Good for light to medium tasks
Cons
- Lower torque than competitors
- Plastic chuck can wear over time
The Einhell TE-ID 18 Li is a solid entry-level impact driver that fits perfectly into the Power X-Change system. With 160 Nm of torque, it handles furniture assembly and smaller screwdriving jobs with ease, and owner reviews often mention its excellent value for money.
It is not designed for heavy-duty framing or large lags, but for the price, it is a reliable workhorse. The build quality is decent for the cost, though some users note the plastic chuck feels less durable than metal alternatives.
Bosch GDX 18V-200
Best VersatilityPros
- Dual chuck for sockets and bits
- High torque for the price
- Compact head design
Cons
- Bare tool only, no kit option
- Can be hard to find under £50 new
The Bosch GDX 18V-200 stands out with its unique dual-chuck system, allowing you to use both standard 1/4 inch hex bits and 1/2 inch sockets without an adapter. This makes it incredibly versatile for both screwdriving and light nut-running tasks, and owner reviews highlight its robust build.
With 200 Nm of torque, it is one of the most powerful options in this price range. It is a bare tool, so you will need a Bosch 18V battery, but its performance and flexibility make it a favorite among tradespeople on a budget.
Stanley SCD20
Best Entry-Level KitPros
- Comes with battery and charger
- Very affordable complete kit
- Good for basic DIY tasks
Cons
- Lower torque and speed
- Heavier than bare tools
The Stanley SCD20 is a complete kit that includes a battery and charger, making it the perfect starting point for beginners. It delivers 150 Nm of torque, which is sufficient for light screwdriving and furniture assembly, and owner reviews note it is a reliable tool for occasional use.
It is heavier and less powerful than bare tool options, but the convenience of having everything in one box is a major plus. If you do not already own batteries, this kit saves you from an additional purchase.
Makita DTW300Z
Best High Torque (Used)Pros
- Very high torque for heavy tasks
- Renowned Makita build quality
- Excellent for automotive work
Cons
- Usually sold above £50 new
- Heavier and bulkier than others
The Makita DTW300Z is a high-torque impact wrench that can often be found used or on sale for under £50. With 330 Nm of torque, it is designed for heavy-duty tasks like lug nuts and large bolts, making it a great choice for automotive enthusiasts.
It is heavier and less suited for delicate screwdriving, but its power is unmatched in this price bracket. Owner reviews for Makita tools are consistently excellent, praising their durability and performance even when bought second-hand.
What to check before buying an impact driver under £50
When shopping on a budget, focus on torque, battery compatibility, and build quality. Torque is measured in Newton metres (Nm), and for general DIY, 150 Nm to 180 Nm is sufficient. Higher torque is better for driving large screws into hardwood.
Battery ecosystem is critical. If you already own tools from a brand like Ryobi or Einhell, buying a bare tool saves money. Check if the tool comes with a battery and charger, as a kit can be better value for first-time buyers.
Mistakes to avoid
Do not buy a tool with a proprietary battery system that is not widely available, as replacement batteries can be expensive. Also, avoid models with very low torque (under 100 Nm) for anything beyond light assembly work.
Another common mistake is ignoring the weight. A heavy impact driver can cause fatigue during extended use, so check the bare tool weight. Finally, do not assume a higher price always means better quality; many budget models offer excellent performance.
FAQs
What is the best impact driver under £50?
The Ryobi RID18-0 is the best overall, offering 180 Nm of torque and great value within the Ryobi ONE+ system.
Is an impact driver worth it for DIY?
Yes, it makes driving long screws much faster and easier than a standard drill, especially for decking and timber projects.
Can I use an impact driver for drilling?
No, impact drivers are designed for screwdriving and nut-running, not for drilling holes. Use a combi drill for that task.
What torque do I need for an impact driver?
For most DIY tasks, 150 Nm to 180 Nm is sufficient. Higher torque is needed for heavy-duty work like large lags or automotive bolts.
Are bare tools cheaper than kits?
Yes, bare tools are cheaper if you already own compatible batteries and chargers from the same brand.
What is the difference between an impact driver and an impact wrench?
An impact driver uses a 1/4 inch hex chuck for bits, while an impact wrench uses a 1/2 inch square drive for sockets and is more powerful.
Can I use a battery from another brand?
No, batteries are brand-specific and not interchangeable unless you use an adapter, which is not recommended for safety.
Is the Einhell TE-ID 18 Li any good?
Yes, it is a reliable budget option with 160 Nm of torque, ideal for light to medium tasks within the Power X-Change system.
Should I buy a used impact driver?
Buying used can save money, especially for high-end brands like Makita, but check for wear and battery health.
What is the warranty on budget impact drivers?
Most budget models come with a 1 to 2 year warranty, though some brands like Bosch offer longer coverage.
Can I use an impact driver for furniture assembly?
Yes, but use a low torque setting or a clutch to avoid over-tightening and damaging the furniture.
What is the lightest impact driver under £50?
The Einhell TE-ID 18 Li is one of the lightest at 1.0 kg bare, making it easy to handle for extended use.
Our verdict
For the best overall impact driver under £50, choose the Ryobi RID18-0 for its strong torque and excellent ecosystem. If you are on a strict budget, the Einhell TE-ID 18 Li offers great value for money. For versatility, the Bosch GDX 18V-200 is a top pick.