I remember it vividly. I was on the final stretch of building a new workbench in my garage—a project I’d been planning for months. The frame was solid, the top was cut, and all that was left was driving dozens of 3-inch screws to secure the heavy-duty shelving. My trusty old cordless drill, which had served me well for hanging pictures and assembling flat-pack furniture, was simply not up to the task. With each screw, it would whine, bog down, and then, with a sickening crunch, strip the head. The frustration was immense. It turned what should have been a satisfying conclusion into a grind of pre-drilling, careful feathering of the trigger, and still, inevitable failure. It’s a common story for any aspiring DIYer: the moment you realize the tool that got you started is now holding you back. This is precisely the problem an impact driver was born to solve.
- Highly Efficient Brushless Motor - Provides 1950 in-lbs of torque and 2600 RPM for the most demanding jobs and fastening applications
- Variable Speed Trigger - With the variable speed trigger, you get precise control over a variety of applications
What to Consider Before Buying an Impact Driver
An impact driver is more than just a tool for driving screws; it’s a key solution for speed, efficiency, and power in fastening applications. Unlike a standard drill, which provides constant rotational force, an impact driver adds a series of powerful, concussive rotational blows (impacts) when it meets resistance. This mechanism allows it to drive long screws and large fasteners into dense material with astonishing ease, all while drastically reducing the chance of stripping the screw head and minimizing the torque transferred to your wrist. For projects involving deck building, framing, subflooring, or even automotive work, an impact driver isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity that saves time, materials, and a significant amount of frustration.
The ideal customer for this type of product is the dedicated homeowner, the weekend warrior DIYer, or even the semi-professional who needs a reliable and powerful tool for frequent fastening tasks. If you’re building, renovating, or just tired of the limitations of a standard drill, an impact driver will revolutionize your workflow. However, it might not be suitable for those who primarily need to drill precise, clean holes (a task better suited for a drill/driver) or for individuals who only perform very light-duty tasks like hanging decor. For them, a simple cordless screwdriver or a basic drill might suffice. For everyone else looking to elevate their capability, investing in a quality impact driver is a transformative step.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Power & Performance: This is the heart of an impact driver. Look at the maximum torque, measured in inch-pounds (in-lbs), and the Impacts Per Minute (IPM). Higher numbers generally mean more power to drive larger fasteners into tougher materials. For most DIY tasks, anything over 1500 in-lbs is formidable, and the Greenworks 24V Brushless Cordless Impact Driver Kit boasts an impressive 1950 in-lbs, putting it in a very capable class.
- Battery System & Motor: The battery platform is a long-term commitment. A 24V system like Greenworks’ offers a step up in power from standard 18V/20V systems. Also, prioritize a brushless motor. Brushless motors are more efficient, run cooler, deliver more power, and have a significantly longer lifespan than their older, brushed counterparts. A kit that includes two batteries is a massive advantage, as it eliminates downtime while you wait for a single battery to charge.
- Ergonomics & Design: You’ll be holding this tool for extended periods. Consider its weight, balance, and grip comfort. A compact head length is also critical for getting into tight spaces, like inside cabinets or between studs. An integrated LED work light is a non-negotiable feature for illuminating dim work areas.
- Value & Included Components: Assess what you get for your money. A “bare tool” might seem cheap, but the cost of batteries and a charger can add up quickly. A complete kit, including the tool, two batteries, a charger, a belt clip, and even a carrying bag, offers tremendous upfront value and gets you working right out of the box.
While the Greenworks 24V Brushless Cordless Impact Driver Kit is an excellent choice for a wide range of users, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition, especially for specialized tasks. For a broader look at all the top models suited for heavy-duty applications, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Brushless motor for increased runtime and durability
- DCD771 in cordless drill combo kit features two speed transmission (0-450 / 0-1500 RPM)
- Compact (7.6 in. front to back), lightweight design fits into tight areas
First Impressions: A Complete Package Ready to Work
Unboxing the Greenworks 24V Brushless Cordless Impact Driver Kit immediately gives a sense of completeness. Unlike the often-piecemeal purchases required with pro-grade brands, everything you need is neatly packed in the included tool bag. The driver itself has a solid, substantial feel without being overly heavy. The iconic Greenworks green is accented by black rubber overmolding that provides a secure and comfortable grip. The fit and finish are impressive, feeling a step above many budget-oriented brands. We agree with one user who noted it’s a “good looking unit. Well made with a good finish.” The 2Ah batteries are a bit larger than some 18V competitors, but as that same user observed, they provide an excellent counterweight that balances the tool nicely in the hand. The quick-release 1/4″ hex collet is smooth and easy to operate with one hand. Included are the driver, two 2Ah batteries, a simple slide-on charger, a belt clip, a basic 8-piece bit set, and the bag—it’s a package clearly designed to get a homeowner or DIYer started immediately without a single extra purchase.
What We Like
- Excellent power with 1950 in-lbs of torque and a brushless motor
- Complete kit includes two 2Ah batteries, charger, and bag
- Part of the extensive Greenworks 24V platform (100+ tools)
- Compact, lightweight, and ergonomic design for user comfort
- Great value proposition compared to premium brands
What We Didn’t Like
- Lowest speed setting can be too fast for delicate or small screws
- Included charger feels basic and less robust than the tool itself
Performance Deep Dive: Power, Precision, and Practicality
An impact driver lives and dies by its performance in the real world. Specs on a box are one thing, but driving a lag bolt into solid wood is another entirely. We put the Greenworks 24V Brushless Cordless Impact Driver Kit through a series of tests, from light-duty assembly to heavy-duty construction tasks, to see if its performance matched its promising feature set.
Raw Power and Torque Delivery
With a rated 1950 in-lbs of torque and 3,500 IPM, this impact driver has serious power on tap, especially for a tool aimed at the consumer and prosumer market. Our first test was to replicate a common, demanding task: driving 3.5-inch lag bolts into a 4×4 pressure-treated pine post without a pilot hole. The Greenworks driver didn’t hesitate. After a moment of initial rotation, the impacting mechanism kicked in with its signature chattering sound—a symphony of raw power—and drove the bolt home with authority. There was no stripping, no bogging down, just effortless fastening. We were, as one user put it, “knocked over by how well this impact driver performed.”
The tool features a three-speed electronic switch located on the base, allowing you to tailor the output to the application. At its highest setting, it’s a beast for construction screws and lag bolts. The middle setting is a great all-around choice for general use. However, we did confirm the findings of another user who noted that the lowest speed setting is still quite aggressive. While manageable, it’s “about twice as fast as other impacts” we’ve used. This means for very small, delicate screws in soft materials, a bit of extra trigger discipline is required to avoid over-driving or stripping. The variable speed trigger is sensitive and offers good control within each range, but a slightly lower starting RPM on speed one would have made it perfect. Nevertheless, for the 95% of tasks this tool will be used for, the power and control are exceptional for its class.
Ergonomics and In-Hand Feel
Power is useless if the tool is a chore to handle. Greenworks claims this model is 35% more compact and 20% lighter than similar units, and in our hands, it certainly feels that way. The compact head allowed us to easily drive screws inside a pre-assembled cabinet, a space where our larger 1/2″ drill would have been impossible to fit. The weight, at just over 3 pounds with the battery attached, is light enough for overhead work without causing premature fatigue. The balance is superb; the tool doesn’t feel front-heavy, allowing for precise placement of the bit on the fastener.
The rubberized grip is comfortable and confidence-inspiring, absorbing much of the vibration from the impacting action. One of the most underrated features is the bright, tri-beam LED work light surrounding the collet. It activates on a half-press of the trigger and stays on for a few seconds after release, providing a clear, shadow-free view of the work surface. This is a massive improvement over single LEDs mounted below the chuck, which often cast an annoying shadow from the bit itself. The easy-to-attach belt clip is robust and held the tool securely on our tool belt while climbing a ladder. Every touchpoint, from the trigger to the direction-of-rotation switch, feels well-placed and intuitive to use.
The 24V Ecosystem and Battery Life
One of the most compelling reasons to choose this tool is the value of the Greenworks 24V platform. This single 24V battery powers over 100 other tools for home and garden, from drills and saws to lawnmowers and hedge trimmers. Buying the Greenworks 24V Brushless Cordless Impact Driver Kit isn’t just buying one tool; it’s an affordable entry point into a vast and versatile ecosystem.
The kit includes two 2.0Ah batteries, which we found to be a perfect pairing for this tool’s efficiency. During our deck-building test, a single battery drove over one hundred 2.5-inch deck screws into pressure-treated lumber before showing signs of slowing down. With the second battery fully charged and ready to go, we experienced zero project downtime. Each battery features a fuel gauge button, so you can check the remaining charge at any time. A brilliant and unique feature we loved is the integrated USB-A port on the battery itself, allowing you to use it as a power bank to charge your phone or other devices on the job site—a genuinely useful innovation. While the included 2A charger is functional, it feels a bit lightweight compared to the rest of the kit, but it gets the job done, fully recharging a battery in about an hour.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our positive experience with the Greenworks 24V Brushless Cordless Impact Driver Kit is broadly reflected in user feedback. Many users, even those accustomed to premium brands, express surprise at the tool’s quality and power. One reviewer stated, “I have comparable brands here, you know the yellow ones that are three times the price point and I prefer the green.” Another echoed this sentiment, calling it “nothing short of super awesome.” The completeness of the kit is a recurring theme of praise, with many appreciating that it comes with two batteries, a charger, and a case, making it an incredible value.
The criticism, while minimal, is consistent and aligns with our findings. The most common point of critique is the speed of the lowest setting. As one user aptly put it, “if your drilling a smaller fragile screw it may be a bit more difficult with this impact.” Another minor point mentioned by a few is the basic feel of the charger, with one calling it “on the cheap side, but it works just fine.” Overall, the consensus is clear: this is a powerful, well-built tool that offers phenomenal performance and value for the DIY and homeowner market, punching well above its weight class.
How Does It Compare to the Competition?
The cordless tool market is fierce. While the Greenworks driver is a standout, it’s important to see how it stacks up against some well-known alternatives.
1. Makita XDT13Z 18V LXT Cordless Impact Driver Tool Only
- BL Brushless motor delivers 1,500 inch pounds Of max torque
- Variable speed (0 to 3,400 RPM & 0 to 3,600 IPM) for a wide range of fastening applications
The Makita XDT13Z is a fantastic brushless impact driver from a top-tier professional brand. It offers excellent ergonomics and Makita’s legendary durability. The key difference, however, is that this is sold as a “tool only.” This makes it an ideal choice for someone who is already invested in the extensive Makita 18V LXT battery platform. For a new user, the total cost after purchasing batteries and a charger will be significantly higher than the complete Greenworks kit. While its performance is stellar, the Greenworks 24V Brushless Cordless Impact Driver Kit offers far greater upfront value and comparable power for non-professional use, making it the smarter buy for those starting from scratch.
2. Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/4″ Hex Impact Driver Kit
- Increase productivity on the jobsite with the fastest driving speed of any impact driver without sacrificing power or control
- Great Trigger Control by providing smooth acceleration for small fasteners to prevent stripping of screws or damaging of materials
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel is widely considered the gold standard for professional impact drivers. It delivers class-leading torque, cutting-edge technology, and is built to withstand daily job site abuse. As one user comparing brands noted, professional lines like Milwaukee are often seen as a step above. This performance comes at a premium price, often two to three times that of the Greenworks kit. For a professional contractor who depends on their tools for their livelihood, the Milwaukee is a justifiable investment. For the homeowner or serious DIYer, its power is often overkill, and the Greenworks driver provides more than enough performance for a fraction of the cost.
3. Makita XT281S 18V LXT 2-Pc. Combo Kit
- Efficient BL Brushless motor is electronically controlled to optimize battery energy use for up to 50% longer run time per charge
- The BL Brushless motor eliminates carbon brushes, enabling the BL motor to run cooler and more efficiently for longer life
This Makita combo kit presents a different value proposition. It includes both an impact driver and a drill/driver, along with one battery, a charger, and a bag. This is a great starting point for someone who needs both tools and wants to buy into a professional-grade system. However, the impact driver in this kit is often a slightly less powerful, brushed model compared to Makita’s standalone brushless offerings. The Greenworks kit focuses on providing one exceptional brushless tool with two batteries, ensuring you have maximum power and no downtime for fastening tasks. If your primary need is a powerful impact driver, the Greenworks kit is the more focused and potent choice.
Final Verdict: The Smart Choice for Power and Value
After extensive testing and analysis, our conclusion is clear: the Greenworks 24V Brushless Cordless Impact Driver Kit is a phenomenal tool that delivers outstanding value. It successfully bridges the gap between underpowered entry-level drills and overpriced professional kits. With its potent brushless motor, impressive torque, excellent ergonomics, and the incredible advantage of a complete ready-to-work package with two batteries, it’s the perfect solution for the modern DIYer, homeowner, or hobbyist woodworker.
While it may not be the top choice for a contractor driving thousands of screws daily, it’s more than capable of handling any task around the home or workshop, from building a deck to maintaining your car. It proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a powerful, reliable, and feature-rich tool. If you’re ready to leave the frustration of stripped screws and underpowered tools behind, we wholeheartedly recommend this impact driver. It is, without a doubt, one of the best all-around values on the market today. You can check the current price and get yours here.
Last update on 2025-11-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API