Electric Screwdriver vs Drill? Which Tool Packs a Punch?
One of the most basic tools in any toolbox is a drill and an electric screwdriver. And often it’s confusing to work out the difference between as electric screwdriver vs drill.
The purpose of an electric screwdriver is different from that of a drill. So, what are the differences between these two, and how do you choose between them? Is it possible to use them interchangeably?
You’ll find answers to many similar questions throughout the electric screwdriver vs. drill comparison guide.
Electric Screwdriver Vs Drill
Electric Screwdriver
An electric screwdriver is a portable device you can use to drive and remove screws in various ways. An electric screwdriver is similar to the conventional screwdriver in that it has a shaft and handle for inserting into screws.
Further, due to their electricity-powered motors, electric screwdrivers offer incredible speed, efficiency, and versatility. There are many industrial applications in which electric screwdrivers are ideal, as they have an extensive range of rotational speeds and torques.
Moreover, there are numerous types of electric screwdrivers, so your choice should be based on the intended use. For instance, are you going to use it a lot for building projects? Do you plan to build new buildings or renovate existing ones? Do you need a screwdriver for mechanical work or a furniture shop?
In addition, it is crucial to assess the frequency of use of the screwdriver. A corded model is a good choice if you need to use it all day. A cordless model, however, might be appropriate if you use it for a limited time each day.
Drill
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Drills are hand-held tools that enable us to make round holes or drive fasteners into them. The drill comes with a bit that connects to a drill or driver chuck.
In recent years, hand-operated types have declined in popularity, while battery-powered ones are rapidly becoming more popular due to their efficiency and ease of operation.
The chuck of this device allows it to accept driver bits, making it useful for screwdriver work as well. Corded and cordless drills are available, with cordless drills resembling electric screwdrivers in many ways.
The power of a cordless drill is between 1 and 4.0 amps, and its voltage ranges from 12 to 24 volts. This drill can handle tough tasks such as drilling holes of large diameter and lighter duties such as driving screws into concrete.
Difference Between Electric Screwdriver and Drill
Size
The size and weight of drills can make them difficult to carry around. The bench drill, for instance, is a piece of equipment with a fixed location where it resides.
Other drills, such as the hammer drill, are portable drills you can use anywhere. There is a general tendency for drills to be bulky, heavy, and difficult to use.
In comparison, a screwdriver that contains an electric motor has the size of a regular screwdriver of medium size. The benefits of this are that it is lightweight and can easily fit in a pocket to carry around.
Functions
Several jobs are possible using a cordless drill, and they are versatile. It is possible to drill holes, install screws, etc., using the correct attachments with the drill. They are more powerful and suitable for many materials than electrical screwdrivers.
In general, cordless drills are heavy and may have to be handled with two hands due to their weight. It is also unlikely that they will fit into tight spaces. On the other hand, the purpose of electric screwdrivers is to drive screws.
They have a small and lightweight design. It is easy to operate these tools with one hand. Also, they are versatile enough to work in tight spaces and when angled oddly. Due to their limited versatility, they are better for driving fasteners.
Torque
Compared to electric screwdrivers, drills are usually capable of delivering a greater torque. Most cordless drills have potent motors and powerful batteries with 12V and 24V. The voltage of an electric screwdriver is lower, between 4 and 10 volts.
It is possible to use an electric drill as a screwdriver; however, this may not always be a good idea. Depending on the setting of your drill, you may be able to strip screw heads or end up breaking them off altogether.
In either case, it will be difficult to remove the screw. When buying an electric drill to use as a screwdriver, ensure it has the proper settings. There’s a reason electric screwdrivers do not break screws, whereas a drill might: They come with a clutch designed to limit torque, so the head cannot rotate after it reaches a certain amount of torque.
Depending on how tight your screw is, the screwdriver will cease turning. Hand-held drills do not have a clutch, so they will keep rotating after you tighten them. Over torque will damage the screw head and cause it to come off.
Electric Screwdriver vs Drill: Which One Should I Choose?
The drill and electric screwdriver differ primarily in their motor size and voltage required to operate. Motors for electric screwdrivers are significantly smaller, usually requiring four to ten volts to operate, resulting in a smaller torque.
On the other hand, a drill has a larger motor that requires a higher voltage to function, so they need a larger battery. In addition, you will find that electric drills often come with a gripping church design, one of the differences. With the chuck, bits of different sizes can fit more easily on the drill.
Conclusion
There is nothing wrong with using your cordless drill as a screwdriver. Many people do this. It is way easier, faster, and more efficient than manual screwdrivers.
Finding the right screwdriver has become even more accessible for many people. On the other hand, it’s easy to work with the drill because all the bits you need are right at your fingertips.
Overall, both drill and electric screwdriver have their pros and cons. You can choose an electric screwdriver or drill, depending on your need.
