Best Cordless Screwdrivers Australia

The Best Cordless Screwdrivers Australia Has To Offer, Information, Buyers Guides, Comparisons and Reviews

© Bosch

A battery screwdriver (more commonly known as a cordless screwdriver) is basically a small, lightweight version of a cordless drill. Their power far outweighs their size, and they are great for simple and undemanding tasks.

As their name states, they are predominantly used for driving screws into wood and plastic, but can also be used for small drilling jobs.

 

Cordless Screwdriver Product Comparison Table

IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS
Makita DF001DW Cordless Screwdriver Kit
  • Battery: 3.6 volts / 1.5 Ah
  • Speed: 220 rpm
  • Torque: 4.0 Nm
  • Weight: 0.36 kg

Features

  • 81-piece set.
  • Dual-grip — pistol or inline.
  • Low vibration of 2.5 m/s².

Product Rating: 4.8/5

Check Price at Toolmart Makita DF001DW Cordless Screwdriver Kit Review Makita DF001DW Cordless Screwdriver Kit Review
Makita Pen Driver Drill Kit
Makita Pen Driver Drill Kit 7.2V
  • Battery: 7.2 volts / 1.5 Ah
  • Speed: 650 rpm
  • Torque: 8.0 Nm
  • Weight: 0.544 kg

Features

  • Includes 2 x 7.2-volt cells and charger.
  • 21 torque settings.
  • Auto-stop clutch.

Product Rating: 4.8/5

Check Price at Amazon Makita Pen Driver Drill Kit 7.2V Review Makita Pen Driver Drill Kit 7.2V Review
Black Decker Srewdriver
BLACK+DECKER Screwdriver CS3653LC-XE
  • Battery: 3.6 volts / 1.5 Ah
  • Speed: 190 rpm
  • Torque: 6.0 Nm
  • Weight: 0.518 kg

Features

  • Front LED lamp.
  • Dual-grip inline/pistol option.
  • In-built bit holder.

Product Rating: 4.7/5

Check Price at Amazon BLACK+DECKER Screwdriver CS3653LC-XE Review BLACK+DECKER Screwdriver CS3653LC-XE Review
BLACK+DECKER 6V Cordless Screwdriver
  • Battery: 6.0 volts / 1.5 Ah
  • Speed: 220 rpm
  • Torque: 5.0 Nm
  • Weight: 0.24 kg

Features

  • Inline design.
  • Extendable arm.
  • No charger required.

Product Rating: 4.7/5

Check Price at Amazon BLACK+DECKER 6V Cordless Screwdriver Review BLACK+DECKER 6V Cordless Screwdriver Review
Worx 4V Srewdriver
WORX 4V Cordless Screwdriver
  • Battery: 4.0 volts / 1.5 Ah
  • Speed: 300 rpm
  • Torque: 5.0 Nm
  • Weight: 0.266 kg

Features

  • Three torque settings.
  • 24-piece kit.
  • Includes carry case.

Product Rating: 4.7/5

Check Price at Amazon WORX 4V Cordless Screwdriver Review WORX 4V Cordless Screwdriver Review
Bosch IXO 5
Bosch IXO 5
  • Battery: 3.6 volts / 1.5 Ah
  • Speed: 215 rpm
  • Torque: 4.5 Nm
  • Weight: 0.30 kg

Features

  • Offset and right angle adaptors.
  • 5 mm maximum screw diameter.
  • Micro USB charger.

Product Rating: 4.6/5

Check Price at Amazon Bosch IXO 5 Review Bosch IXO 5 Review
Bosch IXO 6
  • Battery: 3.6 volts / 1.5 Ah3.6 volts / 1.5 Ah
  • Speed: 215 rpm
  • Torque: 4.5 Nm
  • Weight: 0.34 kg

Features

  • Includes 10 interchangeable bits.
  • Tri-LED battery indicator.
  • Variable speed trigger.

Product Rating: 4.5/5

Check Price at Amazon Bosch IXO 6 Review Bosch IXO 6 Review
Panasonic EY6220NQ57
Panasonic EY6220NQ57 Cordless Screw Driver
  • Battery: 2.4 volts / 2.8 Ah
  • Speed: 400 rpm
  • Torque: 2.9 Nm
  • Weight: 0.43 kg

Features

  • Twin-speed gearbox.
  • Includes detachable cell and charger.
  • 45 minutes charging time.

Product Rating: 4.5/5

Check Price at Amazon Panasonic EY6220NQ57 Cordless Screw Driver Review Panasonic EY6220NQ57 Cordless Screw Driver Review

Features Of Cordless Screwdrivers


Cordless screwdrivers feature many different components, and having a sound understanding of these plays an important part in the purchasing process. Knowledge of these parts also aids in the efficient and effective use of the tool.

AEG SE 3.6 Li Cordless Screwdriver

Power Source Of A Cordless Screwdriver

AEG 3.6V Li-ion BatteryThe power source is the component that provides the tool with electricity. On a cordless screwdriver, this is in the form of a rechargeable battery.

These tools can have batteries ranging in voltage from 3.6V to 10.8V, which enables them to remain very handy and lightweight, never exceeding a kilogram.

Some models (high quality models in particular) will come with two detachable batteries, allowing the user to have a charged back-up battery on hand. On some lower-end screwdrivers however, the battery may be integrated into the handle. This means that once the battery has been drained, it must be recharged before further work can be done.

Screwdrivers with two batteries will have stand-alone chargers, whereas those with one battery will commonly have a small charging cradle that the whole screwdriver rests in.

Some cordless screwdrivers also have battery indicators that show you how much fuel you have left in the battery’s tank.

For more detailed information on the different types of rechargeable batteries used on battery screwdrivers, simplyclick here.

Switch

The switch allows the electricity from the power source to flow through the tool. Most cordless screwdrivers have a trigger switch. When this trigger is pressed, the screwdriver will begin to operate at a set speed.

On some battery screwdrivers, the further the trigger is depressed the faster the tool will rotate. This is commonly known as a variable speed trigger.

AEG SwitchForward/Reverse Switch

With a flick of this switch, the drilling direction changes to allow for forward and reverse motion (right and left motion respectively). This feature is found on all cordless screwdrivers, and can be very helpful if you need to remove screws, or if you need to release your drill bit after it has jammed in a hole.

It is sometimes integrated into the switch.

If flicked between forward and reverse in a neutral position, it also locks the switch to prevent accidental operation of the tool.

AEG Clutch CollarClutch Collar

The clutch collar is very useful for repetitive screw driving, and allows screws to rest at a particular height. It is found on most screwdrivers, and is activated by simply selecting a number, known as a torque setting (usually a number between 1 and 10). The numbers act as a fraction of the maximum torque possible, and when the desired torque is reached the chuck ceases to rotate.

Not all battery screwdrivers will have this feature.

Mode Switch

On cordless screwdrivers, the mode switch allows you to choose between screw driving and normal drilling. This switch is always integrated into the clutch collar.

Motor Of A Power Screwdrivers

Motors are the main component of all power tools, and are the component that converts the electricity into motion. The power that motors produce is measured in Watts (W). Motors used in cordless drills are called DC motors.

Some manufacturers state the output wattage that a cordless tool produces (UWO, or Unit Watts Out). This is an excellent way of comparing the power of different models.

AEG Gear SwitchTransmission

Also known as a gearbox, transmissions dictate the speed range (revolutions per minute, or rpm) that a battery screwdriver can operate at, and the corresponding torque (or turning force) that it can produce.

Transmissions can contain single or multiple gears that are driven by the motor. If a small gear is used in the transmission, then rotary speed will be high but torque will be quite low. If a large gear is used, then rotary speed will be quite low, but torque will be high.

Cordless screwdrivers generally only contain a single gear. This is because they are only for small jobs, and don’t need the versatility of larger cordless units. Some higher quality units do come with a second gear however. This is distinguished by the presence of a small numbered gear switch, usually found on the top of a cordless screwdriver. On cordless screwdrivers with a single gear, torque and speed are balanced for optimal driving effectiveness. Those with two gears feature more torque in their first gear, and more speed in their second gear.

If the screwdriver has only one gear, speeds will not exceed 500rpm. This may seem quite a slow speed range, but this is sacrificed to keep the torque up and the weight down.

Depending on the model, they can have between 3 and 20 Newton-metres (Nm) of torque (turning force). Torque is a debatable value to base a decision upon, but most models are able to effectively drive screws up to 6mm in diameter. Using correct drill bits, some battery screwdrivers can bore holes up to 10mm in wood.

These maximum drill and screw sizes depend on the specific model of the screwdriver, and it is recommended that you consult these specifics before making a purchase.

AEG Hex Drive ChuckChuck

The chuck is the part of the tool that grips the accessories. The transmission powers the drive shaft and on the end of this shaft is the chuck. All battery screwdrivers have a ¼” (6.35mm) hex drive chuck.

¼” hex drive chucks are used on specialist screw driving tools. Accessories are locked in place by pulling or pushing the collar down (depending on the model), inserting the bit, and then releasing the collar.

AEG Jampot HousingHousing

The housing is the casing that protects the internal components.

Cordless screwdrivers will have either a clamshell housing, or a jampot housing.

A clamshell housing is where the housing is manufactured in two plastic halves, and where these halves are fixed together around the internal components.

A jampot housing is where the internal components of the screwdriver are inserted into the housing and then a lid (usually an alloy casing) is screwed down to seal it. This durable style of housing is generally used on high quality power tools, and is much more effective at keeping the internal components aligned and the power tool structurally sound.

Some battery screwdrivers also have an LED light at the front of their housing that light up the material upon operation of the tool.

AEG HandleHandle

The handle is the component of the drill that you hold with your dominant hand and is what you use to apply pressure to the screwdriver.

On cordless screwdrivers, the handle is called a pistol-grip handle, and is commonly covered by rubber for user-comfort.

On some cordless screwdrivers, the handle can moved to change between angled and in-line positions.


Accessories For Cordless Screwdrivers

Due to a cordless screwdriver’s ¼” (6.35mm) chuck, they can only take accessories with a ¼” hex shank. These accessories include screwdriver bits and modified high speed steel (HSS) drill bits.

What Cordless Screwdriver To Buy

 

When purchasing a battery screwdriver, you can’t really go too far wrong. From the features listed above, decide what features are most important to you and make sure these are included in your final purchase. The main considerations you should make include how much power you require, the size and weight of the tool, and how often you will be using it.

A cordless screwdriver is all about convenience and versatility, and therefore lightweight models with Li-ion batteriesare highly recommended.

Manufacturers will either direct their products at the home or trade market. Home use tools generally include plenty of features for a very modest price. They also tend to have very generous warranty periods, including replacement warranties. Trade use tools are built for durability, performance, and reliability. Their warranty periods tend to be much shorter than DIY tools, and are exclusively repair warranties. The main advantage of these tools is that they should well outlive their warranty period, and if they require repair and maintenance spare parts are readily available.

The price of any tool will depend on the quality, capabilities, and features of the model. Bear in mind that at least one of these three elements is commonly sacrificed by manufacturers to reduce the tool’s price and increase its sales. After all, price is the most important factor for consumers.

Cordless screwdrivers can cost anywhere from $20 to $200.

It is important to bear in mind that the entire cost of any power tool is not just it’s initial purchase cost. Added costs can include accessories for the tool to function, maintenance, downtime, and replacement costs. Buying according to your requirements will help to keep these costs to a minimum.

Our Picks of the Best Cordless Screwdrivers in Australia

Makita DF001DW Review


Our Rating: 4.8
Not simply our top-rated electric screwdriver set, but also our choice as the ultimate cordless rechargeable screwdriver.

Arriving complete with 81 drill bits, charger, carry case, and in-built cell — the Makita DF001DW permits you to crack on with your driving projects immediately after unboxing.

With a top speed of 220 rpm, combined with 4.0 Nm of torque — it delivers the consummate balance of rapidity with turning force. And, effortlessly switchable from inline to pistol grip — offers the ideal setup for the demands of your target material.

Low oscillation of just 2.5 m/s² ensures comfort on your longer projects, while a front-mounted LED lamp permits welcome illumination of your work area. And, charged through a micro USB port, it allows convenient re-juicing even on the move.

Hailing from the premium tool manufacturer Makita, the DF001DW enjoys reliability combined with durability.

Pros

N
Complete power screwdriver set.
N
Thumb-controlled forward/reverse.
N
Lightweight for a premium rechargeable battery screwdriver.
N
Ergonomic soft handle.
N
An electric screwdriver ideal for trade or home use.

Cons

N
No choice of torque settings.
N
Lacks detachable cell.

Makita Cordless Screw Driver DF012DSE


Our Rating: 4.8
Knocking out an eye-watering 8.0 Nm of brawn combined with a top speed of 650 rpm — the Makita 7.2-volt automatic screwdriver is a genuine pro-grade machine.

Its vast 21 clutch settings permit you to select the perfect level of rapidity or grunt — depending on the needs of your project. And, with an auto-stop function, it’s unlikely you’ll over-tighten a screw, shear a head, or damage your target material.

Two detachable cells — and a mains-powered charger — extend operational time with the luxury of a backup battery. Furthermore, with a hard carry case included with the cordless electric screwdriver — your accessories and mains unit are protected and effortlessly transportable.

Switchable between inline and pistol grip modes, you can attack with either force or accuracy. And, with integrated LED illumination, the DF012DSE handheld cordless screwdriver excels in low-light conditions.

Pros

N
Best cordless screwdriver for pros.
N
Auto-stop clutch.
N
Twin-speed gearbox.
N
Best electric screwdriver for tougher materials.
N
Three-year warranty.

Cons

N
One of the heaviest electric screwdrivers — 0.544 kg.
N
No bits included.

Black and Decker Cordless Screwdriver 3.6V


 

Our Rating: 4.7
Targeting the prosumer, the 3.6-volt Black and Decker rechargeable screwdriver is the pinnacle of battery screw drivers versatility.

A simple press of a switch enables you to swiftly move from inline to pistol grip — ideal when you’re alternating between horizontal and vertical driving. And, boasting a maximum turning speed of 190 rpm and upper torque of 6.0 Nm — it’s suitable for both rapid soft material screwing and brawny hard medium penetration.

Focusing on the serious hobbyist and DIYer, the CS3653LC-XE battery operated screwdriver’s 3.6-volt lithium-ion cell can hold an idle charge for up to 18 months. Furthermore, with an easy-read top-mounted display, you can check the power level in the battery at a glance.

The in-built power pack is replenished via a universal micro USB cable. And with a case-mounted magnetic bit holder and thumb-operated forward/reverse function — this mini electric screwdriver promises convenience and ease.

Pros

N
The best power screwdriver for versatility.
N
Finger contours for grip and comfort.
N
A Black and Decker electric screwdriver for DIYers.
N
Integral LED lamp.
N
Variable speed trigger.

Cons

N
The Black & Decker screwdriver lacks torque adjustment.
N
At 518 grams, it’s heavy for a small electric screwdriver.

Black and Decker Power Screwdriver


 

Our Rating: 4.7
Bringing the battery powered screwdriver back to basics, the ‎BCF601C-XE from Black+Decker is an excellent budget machine for the novice or intermittent user.

With a traditional inline design, its straightforward and uncomplicated operation belies its grunty 5.0 Nm output — permitting it to address stubborn materials. Furthermore, with a top speed of 220 rpm, it promises rapid driving into softer mediums.

No USB ports, mains chargers, or leads. Instead, this no-nonsense Black and Decker electric screw driver is powered by four disposable AA 1.5-volt batteries. And, with an extendable arm, enables you to reach into harder-to-access areas.

Switching from forward to reverse is effortless with this battery powered electric screwdriver — just twist the orange collar. Furthermore, to control speed, a substantial bottom-mounted trigger offers squeeze selection.

And, although basic, the B&D BCF601C-XE still boasts an in-built LED lamp for dim-light conditions.

Pros

N
The best cordless electric screwdriver for novices.
N
Uses alkaline batteries.
N
Easy-to-operate.
N
Slimline mini cordless screwdriver for toolboxes.
N
Lightweight at 240 grams.

Cons

N
Not the best electric screwdriver in Australia for pros.
N
Lacks gear and clutch options.

WORX 4V Cordless Screwdriver


 

 

Our Rating: 4.7
Including over 24 accessories, the WORX cordless screwdriver kit is the ideal starter set for the home DIYer, or a replacement for older driving tools.

Powered by an in-built lithium-ion cell, this unit pushes out a solid 5.0 Nm of torque while offering 300 rpm of rotational speed. Recharged by a standard micro USB connection — with lead included — it permits effortless battery replenishment around the home or in your car.

The inline design of the WX240 WORX electric screwdriver allows for a top-mounted controller for reverse and forward driving. Furthermore, a touch-sensitive rear button enables you to select between three torque options.

In addition to the 24 screw bit tips — which includes uncommon hex and Torx (star drive) — the WORX cordless screwdriver WX240 arrives with an arm extender and hard carry case. And, with the unit capable of fitting into most workwear pockets, it excels as a portable machine.

Pros

N
The best electric screwdriver set for beginners.
N
Grunty for a relatively small cordless screwdriver.
N
WORX screwdriver with dual LED lamps.
N
A popular electric screwdriver in Bunnings.
N
1.5 hours charging time.

Cons

N
Not the most powerful cordless screwdriver.
N
Lack of a trigger will be a downer for many users.

Bosch IXO 5


Our Rating: 4.6

Ultra-compact and with twin head attachments, the Bosch IXO cordless screwdriver is an excellent unit for DIYers and pros working in confined spaces.

Including both offset and right angle chuck adapters, the IXO 5 from Bosch can access the most awkward of work areas. Combined with its small dimensions — just 150 x 188 mm — it excels operating between joists, in cupboards, and around engine bays.

Additionally, the bosch cordless screwdriver IXO 5 arrives complete with a mains-powered micro USB charger, 10 screw bits, and a soft carry case. An ergonomic pistol grip boosts your user comfort, while a generous rocker trigger offers effortless driving.

Its 3.6 volts delivers 4.5 Nm of torque and 215 rpm — suitable for most home requirements. Furthermore, its integrated LED lamp can be utilised as both a spotlight and scatter light.

A thumb-operated switch enables you to choose from forward and reverse driving options, while a weight of just 300 grams staves off operator fatigue.

Pros

N
The best mini electric screwdriver for confined areas.
N
Automatic spindle lock.
N
A Bosch electric screwdriver backed by German engineering.
N
Basic operation — ideal for novices.
N
Contoured handle for elevated grip.

Cons

N
Looks like a DIY machine.
N
Lacks adjustable torque.

Bosch IXO 6


Our Rating: 4.5
A replacement for the IXO 5 model, the mini Bosch IXO 6 offers the same capabilities as its predecessor — but with a more modern aesthetic.

Like its antecedent, the unit knocks out 215 rpm and 4.5 Nm of torque. Remaining pleasingly compact, it’s available in black, pink, and traditional Bosch green — useful if the appearance of your machine is important.

And, akin to the 5-model, the Bosch IXO 6’s 3.6-volt cell is replenished via a micro USB port. However, this newer machine arrives as cable only — there is no power adaptor as included with its predecessor.

Carrying on the theme of not being quite up to its earlier incarnations’ standards — the IXO 6 from Bosch doesn’t include twin head attachments. That said, they can be purchased separately.

This Bosch battery screwdriver comes with a hard case and ten screw bits. Perhaps its only improvement on the IXO 5 is the more powerful and larger scatter LED lamp.

Pros

N
Best battery screwdriver for compactness.
N
Trigger-controlled speed.
N
Two hours charging time.
N
A Bosch cordless screwdriver popular in Bunnings.
N
Pistol grip — alternative to inline Bosch GO cordless screwdriver.

Cons

N
Not an improvement on the earlier IXO 5 model.
N
DIY-focused — not suitable for pro users.

Panasonic EY6220NQ57


Our Rating: 4.5
With a 2.4-volt cell offering 2.8 Ah of power — the EY6220NQ57 from Panasonic is ideal for users who demand long running times.

Utilising an Ni-MH battery instead of Li-ion, the unit permits extended use over most of its counterparts. That said, with Ni-MH’s shorter overall life cycle, you may have to replace the detachable cell after 2-3 years.

It knocks out a pleasingly rapid 400 rpm — although the 2.9 Nm of grunt may be disappointing. Hence, it’s more suited to soft woodwork driving as opposed to hardcore timber, plastic, and metal.

Pleasingly, the unit effortlessly switches from inline to pistol grip modes — although the lack of grip assistance and design aesthetic is a downer. That said, its twin-speed gearbox is a welcome inclusion.

The unit arrives with a Panasonic 2.4 volt removable cell and charger — capable of replenishment from exhausted to full in just 45 minutes.

Pros

N
One of the best cordless screwdrivers for operational time.
N
Thumb-control forward and reverse.
N
Simple design.
N
Arrives with battery and charger.
N
Reputable brand.

Cons

N
Unappealing aesthetic.
N
Inefficient brushed motor.
N
Includes no screw bits.

Cordless Screwdriver Operating Tips


The following tips will help to preserve the life of your cordless screwdriver, increase your efficiency, and most importantly, keep you safe.

  • If the cordless screwdriver has a gear switch, always ensure it pushed fully into the required gear. Failure to do so can result in damage to your drill’s gears. Never use this switch whilst the machine is operating.
  • You should never change the direction of drive whilst the tool is still operating, as it is highly likely you will damage the tool’s gears.
  • Hold the screwdriver firmly to counter any light reaction forces when drilling or driving screws.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) must always be worn when operating power tools. For more information on PPE and power tool safety, click here.

Was this guide helpful? Has anything been left out? Are there any improvements that could be made? Please take a moment of your time and click here to provide your valuable feedback.

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Conclusion — The Best Cordless Screwdrivers in Australia


Battery-powered screwdrivers deliver portability and convenience — and a more compact option to large drill drivers.

Our chosen picks above illustrate the pinnacle of cordless driving units currently available in Australia.

From the pro-grade Makita DF012DSE to the starter kit WX240, or the long-battery life Panasonic EY6220NQ57 to the novice-focused BLACK+DECKER BCF601C-XE — there’s a reliable unit for every application, experience level and budget.

Yet, in our opinion, there is one machine that stands above the rest — the Makita DF001DW. In performance and accessory provision — it’s unmatched.

With 81 drill bits, charger, and hard carry case — it’s everything the serious DIYer and trade user needs in a single set. The 4.0 Nm of torque and 220 rpm provides a welcome balance of power and speed — while piston/inline options, low vibration, and LED illumination deliver comfort, convenience, and practicality.

Sure, arriving from the premium Makita brand — it’s not the most affordable unit. Yet for reliability and long-term cost efficiency, few cordless screwdrivers come close to the Makita DF001DW.

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