Buying guide · updated 24 Oct 2026

Best impact drivers and drills

An impact driver is the tool most tradies use every single day. These are the ones worth buying now, from compact 12V to full FUEL power.

Quick list

  1. Makita 18V Compact Brushless Impact Driver Kit (DTD153RTE) $619
  2. Makita 12V Max Impact Driver Kit (2x 2.0Ah) $319
  3. Milwaukee M12 FUEL Installation Drill/Driver Kit $650
  4. Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2-Piece Combo (2A3) $799

What to look for

  • Compact heads matter in cabinets, roofs and wall cavities.
  • For timber screws and tek screws an impact driver beats a drill. Keep a drill for holes and mixing.
  • Check if the kit includes batteries and a charger before comparing prices.
âš¡Power tools

Makita 18V Compact Brushless Impact Driver Kit (DTD153RTE)

Best for: Anyone who drives screws and bolts all day

A compact brushless impact driver with two 5.0Ah batteries, rapid charger and case.

Pros

  • Compact head fits tight spots
  • Kit includes two 5.0Ah batteries
  • Brushless motor

Cons

  • Impact driver only, no drill
  • Not Makita's most powerful impact
$619.00at Tool Up · checked 24 Oct 2026
Check price ↗
âš¡Power tools

Makita 12V Max Impact Driver Kit (2x 2.0Ah)

Best for: Apprentices and DIYers on a budget

A light 12V impact driver kit with two 2.0Ah batteries, rapid charger and case.

Pros

  • Light and compact
  • Low price for a full kit
  • Good for cabinetry and fixing

Cons

  • Not for heavy bolts or big screws all day
  • 12V batteries don't fit Makita 18V tools
$319.00at Tool Up · checked 24 Oct 2026
Check price ↗
âš¡Power tools

Milwaukee M12 FUEL Installation Drill/Driver Kit

Best for: Electricians, cabinet makers and installers

A compact 12V drill/driver with swappable heads (offset, right-angle and chuck).

Pros

  • Interchangeable heads for awkward spaces
  • Light 12V platform
  • Kit ready to use

Cons

  • 12V has less grunt than 18V
  • Pricey for a 12V tool
$649.52at Tool Up · checked 24 Oct 2026
Check price ↗
âš¡Power tools

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2-Piece Combo (2A3)

Best for: Builders and chippies who want a pro-grade drill and impact pair

Hammer drill (M18FPD3) and impact driver (M18FID3) from Milwaukee's top FUEL brushless range, in one kit.

Pros

  • Top-tier FUEL brushless drill and impact driver
  • Huge M18 battery platform to grow into
  • Hammer drill handles masonry as well as timber and steel

Cons

  • Dearer than DeWalt and Makita starter kits
  • FUEL tools are heavier than compact models
$799.00at Tool Up · checked 24 Oct 2026
Check price ↗

For tradies, from Bizzoo

Never miss a call again

An AI receptionist answers when you're on the tools, takes the job details and texts them to you. Add a fast website that brings in leads, built for you.

See Bizzoo ↗Call 0430 753 547

Bizzoo runs TradieKit AU, so this is our own service.

FAQ

Impact driver or drill?

Most tradies own both. The impact driver drives screws and bolts, and the drill makes clean holes.

Prices checked on 24 Oct 2026 at the retailer shown and may have changed. TradieKit AU may earn a commission from links on this page. Disclosure.