To fully understand the difference between a drill and an impact driver, you need to know how they work. So the question was it invented as a way to sell more products or was there really a need for the impact driver? In fact yes, there was a need for the impact driver and it was first used in the aerospace sector and then was transferred to the consumer as they found the tool to provide better and more efficient fastening solutions than a drill. Considering the impact wrench and impact driver are pretty close, except for some features including the head, we do know it was after the drill. However, the first Impact Wrench was designed in 1939, which was 50 years after the drill. So I tried to find the exact date of the first Impact Driver but to my amazement, I can’t find any record.

The drill we know today, with many changes, was invented in 1917 that featured a trigger switch and pistol grip and was designed by Black & Decker. Before we go on, it’s a great time to understand the history of each tool.Ī drill goes way back to the day when our ancestors were rubbing sticks together to make fire but the motor drill was invented in 1889 and the first portable drill was invented in 1895. But there is more to the story and each one really does have an advantage over the other tool. They look the same so aren’t they the same tool and can they be used for the same applications? Yes, a drill can do some of the tasks that an Impact driver can do and an Impact Driver can do some of the tasks that a drill can do. Our goal is to help you understand the difference between each tool and make you a better consumer to help with your purchase. Our goal today is not to get all engineering on you and show you the inside of the tool.

Once you understand the difference, then the answer is easy. Okay, so there is no easy answer to that question unless you know what the difference is between a drill and an impact driver. So the question is what is the difference and do you really need both tools? To answer the question if you need both tools, no you don’t need both tools, well maybe you do. I am sure if you are reading this you have noticed when you are looking to buy tools, you can buy either a Drill/Driver or an Impact Driver and sometimes you even see them in a kit together.

Hammer drill vs impact drill vs drill