Car repairs, specifically changing tires and rims, are some of the best uses for an impact wrench. They work best for freeing stuck (and mostly rusted) nuts due to their high torque. Whether you work in an auto repair shop or just want a handy tool in your home garage, there’s no denying that corded impact wrenches are helpful for uninterrupted power.
If you’re the user who doesn’t want to worry about battery life, check out my reviews below of corded impact wrenches in the market today – you might find a new favorite!
Metabo HPT WR22SE Corded Brushless Impact Wrench
The Metabo HPT WR22SE Corded Brushless Impact Wrench is my favorite pick because it has a powerful motor and a 3/4-inch drive size, which is more suitable for heavy-duty work. I like that it has a brushless motor so you don’t have to worry much about its maintenance.
With a no-load speed of 1,400 RPM and an impact rate of 2,000 BPM, this impressive corded impact wrench is powered by an 8.3-amp motor at 800 watts. Furthermore, it has 460 foot-pounds of torque so it is the right tool for tough applications.
When it comes to usability, it has a 360-degree adjustable and removable side handle so you’ll easily find the most comfortable position for you. What’s more, its non-slip grip handle helps to reduce user fatigue, whether you have sweaty hands or you are wearing gloves. Because this power tool has both AC and DC power source choices, it will allow flexibility in the work area.
The impact wrench’s aluminum housing body toughens up the durability of the tool, while also keeping it lightweight (it only weighs 10.1 pounds). This impact wrench will work well on bolts from 9/16 to 15/16-inch (ordinary) and 5/8 to 7/8-inch (high-tension).
Things I Like About This Product: It has a powerful torque, a low-maintenance brushless motor, and the ability to switch between AC and DC power.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The no-load speed might not be as fast as other corded impact wrenches of the same class.
Makita 6906 9 Amp 3/4-InchImpact Wrench
Yet another large-sized drive unit on my list is the Makita 6906 9 Amp 3/4-Inch Impact Wrench. This tool has an 11-pound weight and a side handle that can be adjusted up to 360 degrees, which allows you to work with various angles and positions to avoid straining yourself.
What’s more, it has a one-handed switch (rocker-type) for operation (forward or reverse). With a max torque of 433 foot-pounds, this impact wrench has a no-load speed of up to 1,700 RPM and an impact rate of 1,600 BPM.
As for capacities, the tool will handle 5/8 to 7/8-inch for bolt drive and up to 3/4-inch for the square drive. From end to end, it has an overall tool length of 12-7/8 inches. Likewise, it has precision gearing and ball/needle bearing construction that provides smooth operation.
The construction is double insulated to make sure it will withstand job site abuse. Moreover, it has easily-accessible brushes for simplifying maintenance. When you order this impact wrench, it already comes with a steel tool case to keep it protected, as well as a side handle.
Things I Like About This Product: It has a large drive and a high no-load speed for tough jobs. Aside from the 360-degree design, it also has a one-handed switch operation for usability and saving time.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: Unfortunately, the impact wrench doesn’t have a brushless motor so you’d have to change the brushes when needed.
Porter-Cable PCE211 1/2-Inch Corded Impact Wrench
If you prefer a tool for light-duty or home use, why not try the Porter-Cable PCE211 1/2-Inch Corded Impact Wrench? Although made with a smaller drive, it delivers 450 foot-pounds of torque, up to 2,200 RPM of speed, and up to 2,700 BPM of impact.
With a powerful 7.5-amp motor, despite its drive size, it is still ideal for heavy-duty applications. Changing the socket becomes simple due to the 1/2-inch hog ring anvil. Furthermore, the forward/reverse rocker-type switch makes operation easy when your hands are full.
The weight of this tool is 7.8 pounds, so it is ideal for folks who often get fatigued with heavy impact wrenches. It has a total length of 12 inches, and the motor sounds aren’t too loud, so it’s just right for residential use. It is backed by a 3-year limited warranty with a 1-year free service contract and 90-day money-back guarantee to give you peace of mind.
Things I Like About This Product: The torque is powerful even for an impact wrench with a smaller drive of 1/2 inch. Furthermore, at 7.8 pounds, it is not too difficult to carry between job sites.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The construction might not be as weather-resistant as compared to other impact wrenches when not stored properly. It also doesn’t have a variable-speed trigger.
Makita TW1000 1-Inch 12 Amp Impact Wrench
Made with a powerful motor amperage, the Makita TW1000 1-Inch 12 Amp Impact Wrench is built for the toughest jobs, with its 783-foot-pound max torque. This rating is significantly higher than the tools I reviewed above, making it similar to pneumatic tools. Since it is also a 1-inch impact wrench, it is built for bigger jobs.
Let’s look at the construction – it is made of impact-resistant aluminum gear housing that makes it tough for job site abuse. What’s more, it has an efficient impact system that decreases vibrations and minimizes user fatigue. Moreover, it has a 360-degree rotatable side handle to simplify your operation.
Due to the rocker-type switch, operating the impact wrench with just one hand is possible. Likewise, its brushes and ball bearings are externally accessible so performing maintenance doesn’t have to be troublesome. It has a no-load speed of 1,400 RPM, and an impact rate of 1,500 BPM.
Bearing a 15-inch tool length, this heavy-duty impact wrench weighs 18.5 pounds so the best place to use it is the construction site. I like that it has a rubberized grip with an ergonomic design. Makita backs up this tool with a 1-year warranty and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.
Things I Like About This Product: It has a large drive and a powerful torque that’s meant for heavy-duty job site applications.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The motor is not brushless and the tool is on the heavier side.
Metabo HPT WR16SE 1/2-Inch Corded Impact Wrench
For those who are considering a home-use tool, the Metabo HPT WR16SE 1/2-Inch Corded Impact Wrench is a decent choice. This impact wrench bears a 270-foot-pound max torque, which is sufficient for most home garage tasks and car repairs. It also has a 370-watt brushless motor that keeps maintenance simple. The impact wrench has a speed of 1,600 RPM and an impact rate of 1,900 BPM.
What’s unique about this tool is that it has an internal inverter circuit, making it applicable for use with a generator when you’re working outdoors (or during a power outage). For convenience, the large toggle switch allows easy forward and reverse transitions. What’s more, the non-slip grip made of soft yet durable elastomer will lessen your user fatigue for long hours of operation.
Another durability plus point for this impact wrench is the large bumper, which keeps the gear cover of the tool. If you want flexibility between different applications, it has four selectable impact ranges for you to choose from. The tool only weighs 5.5 pounds so it won’t cause too much fatigue during long operation hours.
Things I Like About This Product: Because the tool has a brushless motor, maintenance won’t be a hassle. It is also compatible with a generator so it will be useful when there is a power outage or if you’re doing off-grid work.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The tool doesn’t come with sockets or a case.
Enertwist ET-IW-1020 Corded Impact Wrench
The Enertwist ET-IW-1020 Corded Impact Wrench has an 8.5-amp motor that delivers a powerful breakaway torque of 1,050 foot-pounds and max torque of 450 foot-pounds, making it ideal for heavy-duty construction projects and job site use, especially with stubborn fasteners. It also has a powerful speed of 2,600 RPM and an impact rate of 2,700 BPM, making it one of the top contenders of its class.
With an all-metal gear construction, you can easily tell that this tool is built to take long-term abuse. The step-less style of the adjustable speed option allows you to fine-tune your operation depending on the material you need to work on. What’s more, it has a 1/2-inch anvil with a heavy-duty hog ring to keep your socket in place.
Usability features include the one-handed forward/reverse switch. Moreover, user fatigue is reduced thanks to the handle’s rubberized grip. With a 9.9-foot power cord, it’s ideal for larger-scale applications without the need to depend on cord extensions.
Likewise, it has a rugged rubber nose and high impact yet lightweight housing for durability. The tool only weighs 8.2 pounds, so it’s not too heavy. What’s more, the rocker switch allows for easy operation of the tool.
Things I Like About This Product: The impact wrench has a powerful torque and speed.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The tool may take some time to cool off due to the fast speed.
DeWalt DW292K Impact Wrench with Detent Pin Anvil
Applicable for both AC and DC use, the DeWalt DW292K Impact Wrench with Detent Pin Anvil has a frameless motor design that makes brush replacement easy for the operator. It is highly-compatible with impact sockets due to its 1/2-inch detent pin anvil. With a 7.5-amp motor, this tool delivers 345 foot-pounds of torque in both directions.
The impact wrench has a ball-bearing construction that gives it a durable build while the soft grip will help your hands feel less fatigued at the end of the day. What’s more, it has a rocking switch that’s easy to operate when your hands are full. For easy transport between job sites, this impact wrench comes with a handy bag.
Weighing 7 pounds, this 1/2-inch impact wrench is ideal for home projects, such as deck building, garage door installation, and the like. It has a no-load speed of 2,100 RPM and an impact rate of 2,700 BPM. From end to end, the impact wrench measures 11-1/4 inches so it’s not too long and bulky to store in your garage or tool shed. It is backed by a 3-year limited warranty.
Things I Like About This Product: Due to the 1/2-inch detent pin anvil design, securing the impact sockets becomes easier. Moreover, the weight of only 7 pounds makes transport an easy feat.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The torque is not as powerful as with other corded impact wrenches (with around 400 foot-pounds of torque).
Makita TW0200 3.3 Amp 1/2-Inch Corded Impact Wrench
Ideal for light-duty use, the Makita TW0200 3.3 Amp 1/2-Inch Corded Impact Wrench delivers a max torque of 150 foot-pounds so it is okay for casual and occasional use in the garage. Weighing only 4.6 pounds, it won’t cause fatigue as much as heavier impact wrenches, which is good news for users.
For one-handed operation, it has a rocker-type switch for forward/reverse selection. It also has sufficient durability due to the impact-resistant aluminum gear case and a protective rubber boot. When it comes to maintenance, the ball bearings and brushes are externally accessible.
With an impact rate of 2,200 BPM and a variable speed of 0 to 2,200 RPM, the impact wrench has a 1/2-inch detent pin anvil for protection and convenience. Bearing a tool length of 9-7/8 inches, it even has a tool hook on both sides so storing the impact driver won’t be a problem in your garage or shed. It is backed by a 1-year warranty.
Things I Like About This Product: The impact driver is lightweight so it’s ideal for folks who can’t handle a heavy tool or need something to work in awkward angles.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: Due to the low fastening torque, it is not ideal for heavy-duty applications. Also, take note that this tool doesn’t have a brushless motor.
Milwaukee 9070-20 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
Yet another unit for casual projects around the house (and light-duty job site use) is the Milwaukee 9070-20 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench. With a 7-amp motor, it delivers 300 foot-pounds of torque, has a no-load speed of 1,800 RPM (variable), and an impact rate of 2,600 BPM.
The pin detent system will keep the sockets secured while the rocker switch allows easy selection between forward and reverse settings. Due to the ergonomic handle, your hands won’t feel fatigued when using the tool.
Since it only weighs 6 pounds, it is a portable tool to consider for folks who work between job sites or just want a lightweight impact wrench. Bearing an 8-foot long rubber power cord, it is job site ready and won’t need an extension in most cases.
The overall length of the tool is 11-5/8 inches so it is just right among corded impact wrenches of the same class. Likewise, this impact wrench is a 120V AC/DC tool that makes it versatile. It is backed by a 5-year warranty from Milwaukee.
Things I Like About This Product: The weight is just right for folks who feel fatigued with a heavyweight impact wrench. It also has sufficient speed (1,800 RPM) for its drive size and the speed settings are variable to match your application.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: Although it secures the socket thoroughly for safety, removing it with this impact wrench may take a bit of strength.
Craftsman CMEF901 7.5 Amp 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
With a powerful torque of 450 foot-pounds, the Craftsman CMEF901 7.5 Amp 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench is built for heavy-duty tasks while maintaining work flexibility due to the variable speed trigger of up to 2,200 RPM. Likewise, it has an impact rating of 2,700 BPM. For easy socket changes, it has a hog ring anvil.
What I like about this corded impact wrench is the VersaTrack compatibility, which allows you to separately buy accessories for this tool if you like. Furthermore, if you have the VersaTrack wall organization system, this impact wrench is compatible with it for easy storage.
Likewise, the rocker switch is easy to operate on its forward and reverse modes. This makes one-handed use a breeze, especially if you’re handling different items simultaneously. It is backed by a 3-year limited warranty.
Things I Like About This Product: It has Versatrack compatibility to easily organize your tools and add accessories to your impact wrench. Furthermore, it has a powerful speed and torque among other impact wrenches of its class.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The impact wrench doesn’t come with a tool case.
Makita 6952 2.3 Amp Corded Impact Driver
For the most casual use or weekend projects, the Makita 6952 2.3 Amp Corded Impact Driver is a sufficient beginner-friendly corded tool for you. It has a max torque of 88.5 foot-pounds and a variable speed trigger of up to 3,200 RPM.
This speed is significantly higher than most of the models I mentioned above because of the 1/4-inch hex shank and the low torque. Likewise, it has up to 3,100 BPM of impact powered by its 2.3-amp motor. Weighing 2.9 pounds, it is the lightest in weight out of all the corded impact wrenches I reviewed.
Like most of my picks here, it has a one-handed reverse switch near the trigger for convenience. For durability, it is made with an impact-resistant aluminum housing and dual ball bearings. Changing bits is also a breeze due to the 1/4-inch hex shank, as mentioned above.
The ergonomic handle on this impact wrench will help lessen user fatigue. Among the common applications of this tool include plumbing, home repair jobs, and electrical work. With a bolt drive capacity of 1/4 to 5/8 inch, this impact driver is backed by a 1-year warranty.
Things I Like About This Product: The tool is lightweight and is easy to operate with one hand. It has a 1/4-inch hex shank for quick bit changes.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: It doesn’t have a brushless motor and its torque is not as powerful as with other impact wrenches of the same class.
The Methodology: What I Considered When Picking the Corded Impact Wrenches Featured Above
So how did I choose the corded impact wrenches mentioned above? To help you out, here are some criteria that I used in making my decision:
1. Drive size
Common corded impact wrenches are 1/2-inch, which are suitable for regular nut-loosening jobs. However, for heavy-duty needs, I’d suggest you go for the 3/4-inch or 1-inch impact wrenches. For the weekend warrior, 1/4-inch drive size is sufficient.
2. No-load speed and impact rate
Impact wrenches have around 1,400 to 3,200 RPM of speed, which depends on their drive size. On the other hand, the impact rate, measured in BPM, is usually a few numbers higher than the speed. If you need a heavy-duty impact wrench, choose one with a higher speed and impact rate.
3. Torque
Like the speed, the torque also depends on the drive size. Common torque values are 300 to 460 foot-pounds but heavy-duty corded impact wrenches have up to 700 foot-pounds of torque, making them similar to their air-powered counterparts.
4. Motor type
Brushed motors are okay but brushless ones have more advantages when it comes to maintenance. For instance, brushless motors don’t need constant carbon brush changes and such motors also run quieter than traditional brush motors do.
Even if you do choose an impact wrench that has a brushed motor, it’s better to look for one that has externally-accessible brushes. In this way, you’ll find it easy to replace them whenever needed so you don’t have to disassemble the tool thoroughly.
5. Construction
Durable construction is important when choosing the best impact wrench (or power tool, for that matter). All-metal gears are preferred for job site use and it’s also ideal to look for impact-resistant wrenches so even if you drop them by accident, they’ll still work.
6. Usability
The ease of changing the direction (forward/reverse) will help you finish your task with minimal fatigue. Many corded impact wrenches that I mentioned above have a rocker-type switch that will be a breeze to use for one-handed operation.
After all, let’s face it – you won’t always be in a comfortable position depending on what you’re working on. By having features that let you operate the corded impact wrench with one hand only, your hands will be open for multitasking and for keeping your safety in check, such as when climbing a ladder.
7. Weight
Typically, corded impact wrenches have a weight range of 6 to 10 pounds. Heavier units are usually the ones that have a bigger drive size and vice-versa for lightweight ones. Nonetheless, it’s up to you whether you prefer a heavy yet powerful unit in terms of construction and torque or whether you prefer a lightweight impact wrench for weekend projects and overhead positions.
Summary
To wrap it up, my overall go-to pick is the Metabo HPT WR22SE Corded Brushless Impact Wrench due to the large 3/4-inch drive size, brushless motor, and powerful torque. Another tool with a similar drive size is the Makita 6906 9 Amp 3/4-Inch Impact Wrench, which has a higher no-load speed, albeit not having a brushless motor.
If you want a smaller tool, the Porter-Cable PCE211 1/2-Inch Corded Impact Wrench is for you, which still delivers a powerful torque, nonetheless. If you want a heavy-duty unit, I’d suggest the Makita TW1000 1-Inch 12 Amp Impact Wrench with its large drive size and powerful torque that will be ideal for the job site.
I also liked the Metabo HPT WR16SE 1/2-Inch Corded Impact Wrench due to its brushless motor and generator compatibility. For those who are looking for a high breakaway and max torque, the Enertwist ET-IW-1020 Corded Impact Wrench is for you.
The DeWalt DW292K Impact Wrench with Detent Pin Anvil is also on my list due to its socket security and lightweight design. If you have VersaTrack as a tool organizer, the Craftsman CMEF901 7.5 Amp 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench is compatible with that.
Other lightweight options are the Makita TW0200 3.3 Amp 1/2-Inch Corded Impact Wrench and the Milwaukee 9070-20 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench, which are great gifts for family members who want an easy and lightweight tool.
Finally, you might also consider getting an impact driver instead. For recommendations, check this article.