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Picture this scene: you're hours deep in a DIY project, wallowing in a sea of screws, each one laughing in the face of your ever-weakening manual efforts. While the screwdriver is a timeless classic of any toolbox and has a nostalgic charm, we're in the age of innovation, and there's no better moment than now to electrify your toolbox with the power of electric screwdrivers.It's 2025, and it's time you tossed your old grandpa's screwdriver to one side and grabbed an electric screwdriver, a tool that will zip through those screws like a hot knife through butter. These little marvels have found their forever home in my toolbox, and trust me, they're not just about speed. These also offer precision that a Swiss watchmaker would enjoy.In my arsenal, I've got electric screwdrivers for every conceivable scenario. Whether it's a Herculean task demanding brute strength or a delicate operation requiring a feather's touch, my collection is ready to conquer it all. Big or small, complex or straightforward, I've got the power, precision, and versatility to tackle anything the DIY universe throws my way.What is the best electric screwdriver right now?I dove deep into the world of electric screwdrivers, testing some top contenders with real-world challenges to see which ones truly perform under pressure. I checked out their power, endurance, durability, and bang for your buck. After much deliberation, my crown for the best electric screwdriver overall goes to theLifegoo Mini Electric Screwdriver. This little dynamo really impressed with its long-lasting battery and the convenience of being pocket-sized and USB-C rechargeable. It might not pack the heaviest punch, but for practicality and frequent use, it can't be beat.Stick around as I walk you through my other top picks and why they might just be the upgrade your toolkit needs. Sort by All Quality Durability Power settings Ergonomics Battery life The best electric screwdrivers of 2025 Show less View now at Amazon The Lifegoo Mini Electric Screwdriver really stands out due to its compact and lightweight design, making it a champion for tight and tricky spaces.It offers a reasonable torque range of 0.25-0.35Nm, which is gentle enough to secure fasteners snugly without risking damage by over-tightening. For those moments when a bit more muscle is needed, this nifty tool allows you to manually increase the torque up to 3Nm, giving you that perfect "hand tight" force without crossing into the danger zone of causing damage.As a bonus, the Lifegoo Mini comes equipped with a versatile 48-piece precision bit set. This set includes both standard and extra-long bits, the latter being ideal for reaching those challenging, deeply recessed screws. This feature-packed screwdriver offers both versatility and precision, making it a stellar addition to any toolkit.And just as I'd expect, the online reviews for this screwdriver and exceedingly positive.Lifegoo Mini Electric Screwdriver tech specs: Rotation speed:200 rev/min|Battery type:3.7V 350mAh lithium battery |Torque:0.25~0.35Nm electric/3Nm manual Quality 10 Durability 7 Power settings 7 Ergonomics 7 Battery life 8 Pros Great precision Compact Decent power output USB-C charging Long battery life Cons Can't charge screwdriver in the case Don't drop the case on the floor as the bits will go everywhere The Lifegoo Mini Electric Screwdriver really stands out due to its compact and lightweight design, making it a champion for tight and tricky spaces.It offers a reasonable torque range of 0.25-0.35Nm, which is gentle enough to secure fasteners snugly without risking damage by over-tightening. For those moments when a bit more muscle is needed, this nifty tool allows you to manually increase the torque up to 3Nm, giving you that perfect "hand tight" force without crossing into the danger zone of causing damage.As a bonus, the Lifegoo Mini comes equipped with a versatile 48-piece precision bit set. This set includes both standard and extra-long bits, the latter being ideal for reaching those challenging, deeply recessed screws. This feature-packed screwdriver offers both versatility and precision, making it a stellar addition to any toolkit.And just as I'd expect, the online reviews for this screwdriver and exceedingly positive.Lifegoo Mini Electric Screwdriver tech specs: Rotation speed:200 rev/min|Battery type:3.7V 350mAh lithium battery |Torque:0.25~0.35Nm electric/3Nm manual Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon The SES Max features an ergonomic pencil-style grip that allows it to be gripped firmly for extended periods without fatigue. There's a single button that controls everything, and an OLED display to keep you informed.It has a sensible torque range, offering enough power to break small fasteners free, but not so much as to damage things. The 500mAh battery can handle up to 900 precision screws on a single full charge, and the screwdriver can be recharged using the USB-C connector built into the storage case. There are also four built-in shadowless LED lights for illuminating the workspace, which is super helpful.Reviews: This is the smartest electronic precision screwdriver I've ever testedThe single killer feature of the SES Max is the motion control feature that detects whether you want to tighten or loosen a fastener. Fit the bit into the fastener, press the on button, begin to apply torque, and the screwdriver takes over. There's no need to fiddle and find the appropriate loosening or tightening button. Quality 8 Durability 10 Power settings 9 Ergonomics 7 Battery life 7 Pros Intuitive "smart" control Ergonomic and comfortable to use Very neat carry case Cons Smartphone app is of limited use Arrowmax SES Max The best "smart" screwdriver 4.1 / 5 Score The SES Max features an ergonomic pencil-style grip that allows it to be gripped firmly for extended periods without fatigue. There's a single button that controls everything, and an OLED display to keep you informed.It has a sensible torque range, offering enough power to break small fasteners free, but not so much as to damage things. The 500mAh battery can handle up to 900 precision screws on a single full charge, and the screwdriver can be recharged using the USB-C connector built into the storage case. There are also four built-in shadowless LED lights for illuminating the workspace, which is super helpful.Reviews: This is the smartest electronic precision screwdriver I've ever testedThe single killer feature of the SES Max is the motion control feature that detects whether you want to tighten or loosen a fastener. Fit the bit into the fastener, press the on button, begin to apply torque, and the screwdriver takes over. There's no need to fiddle and find the appropriate loosening or tightening button. Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon The HOTO electric screwdriver exudes a robust, heavy-duty vibe that promises durability and efficiency. At one end, you'll find a standard 1/4-inch socket ready to accommodate a variety of bits. Just behind this is a user-friendly rotary knob, which toggles between three distinct torque settings, allowing for precision control depending on your task.Enhancing its functionality, this screwdriver includes a circular LED shadowless lamp. This brilliant feature illuminates your work area, freeing you from the hassle of juggling a screwdriver and a flashlight simultaneously -- a small but significant touch that makes a big difference in usability.On the opposite end lies a USB-C port, modernizing the charging process by eliminating the need for proprietary chargers. This universal charging port adds an extra layer of convenience, making it easy to power up the screwdriver with the same cable used for many of your other devices. The HOTO electric screwdriver is a thoughtfully designed tool that marries strength with smart features, making it a standout choice for any toolbox.Another product with very positive online reviews, which one going as fast as to say "if Apple was to make an electric screwdriver, this is what it would be."HOTO electric screwdriver tech specs: Rotation speed:220 rev/minBattery type:3.7V 150mAh lithium battery |Torque:0.25~3.0Nm electric/3Nm manual Pros Amazing power output USB-C charging Can drive 1,000 on a single charge Cons Quite chunky in the hand The HOTO electric screwdriver exudes a robust, heavy-duty vibe that promises durability and efficiency. At one end, you'll find a standard 1/4-inch socket ready to accommodate a variety of bits. Just behind this is a user-friendly rotary knob, which toggles between three distinct torque settings, allowing for precision control depending on your task.Enhancing its functionality, this screwdriver includes a circular LED shadowless lamp. This brilliant feature illuminates your work area, freeing you from the hassle of juggling a screwdriver and a flashlight simultaneously -- a small but significant touch that makes a big difference in usability.On the opposite end lies a USB-C port, modernizing the charging process by eliminating the need for proprietary chargers. This universal charging port adds an extra layer of convenience, making it easy to power up the screwdriver with the same cable used for many of your other devices. The HOTO electric screwdriver is a thoughtfully designed tool that marries strength with smart features, making it a standout choice for any toolbox.Another product with very positive online reviews, which one going as fast as to say "if Apple was to make an electric screwdriver, this is what it would be."HOTO electric screwdriver tech specs: Rotation speed:220 rev/minBattery type:3.7V 150mAh lithium battery |Torque:0.25~3.0Nm electric/3Nm manual Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less DuroFort 8V Cordless Screwdriver Best affordable screwdriver 3.2 / 5 Score After a thorough search filled with many missteps, I've discovered a few budget-friendly electric screwdrivers that won't break the bank and don't compromise on quality -- such as the DuroFort 8V cordless screwdriver. This tool is an ideal all-rounder, equipped with a motor and a 10-speed gearbox and can put out 5.5Nm of electric torque and 10Nm of manual torque with a no-load speed of 320 RPM.It's robust enough to tackle a variety of tasks, whether at home, in the workshop, or around the office. It boasts an impressive capacity, capable of driving up to 300 screws on a single charge, ensuring you can complete even lengthy projects without interruption.The screwdriver comes with an extensive 89-bit selection, catering to a wide range of screw types and sizes. Additionally, it includes a nut adapter and a flexible shaft, perfect for reaching those awkward, hard-to-access spots.Feedback from users on Amazon highlights the screwdriver's heavy-duty build, exceptional performance, user-friendly design, and compact size. A standout feature is its adaptable design, easily shifting from a pistol-grip to an in-line configuration, adding to its versatility and making it a top choice for DIY enthusiasts looking for a reliable yet affordable electric screwdriver.DuroFort 8V Electric Screwdriver tech specs: Rotation speed: 320 rev/min|Battery type:8V 2000mAh lithium battery |Torque:0.25~5.5Nm electric/10Nm manual Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon The Bosch GO electric screwdriver merges a chunky design with surprising ergonomic features, making it a comfortable fit even during prolonged use. It's wrapped in a rubberized elastomer coating that enhances grip and reduces fatigue, showcasing a thoughtfully designed user interface.This screwdriver includes two main controls: a three-way slider and a push button. The slider conveniently allows you to switch between fastening, locking, and unfastening modes, while the button serves to activate the screwdriver.Review:Bosch GOAnother trick that the Bosch GO has up its sleeve is that it also be activated by simply pressing down on the screwdriver. This unique feature might require a bit of a learning curve (I found it a little fiddly initially), but once mastered, it provides an efficient and quick way to operate the tool, enhancing productivity significantly.The screwdriver offers five torque settings that range from soft for delicate tasks to max for those requiring more power. This flexibility ensures that the Bosch GO can handle a variety of tasks with precision, making it a standout choice for both professional and home use.As I'd expect for a Bosch product, owners are impressed by the quality of the screwdriver, commenting that it feels almost like an industrial product.Bosch GO screwdriver tech specs: Rotation speed:360 rev/minBattery type:3.6V 1,500mAh lithium battery |Torque:2.5~5.0Nm electric Quality 10 Durability 10 Power settings 8 Ergonomics 8 Battery life 10 Pros All the power you could need Very ergonomic handle Lots of built-in safety features Cons microUSB charging Bosch GO Best heavy-duty electric screwdriver 4.6 / 5 Score The Bosch GO electric screwdriver merges a chunky design with surprising ergonomic features, making it a comfortable fit even during prolonged use. It's wrapped in a rubberized elastomer coating that enhances grip and reduces fatigue, showcasing a thoughtfully designed user interface.This screwdriver includes two main controls: a three-way slider and a push button. The slider conveniently allows you to switch between fastening, locking, and unfastening modes, while the button serves to activate the screwdriver.Review:Bosch GOAnother trick that the Bosch GO has up its sleeve is that it also be activated by simply pressing down on the screwdriver. This unique feature might require a bit of a learning curve (I found it a little fiddly initially), but once mastered, it provides an efficient and quick way to operate the tool, enhancing productivity significantly.The screwdriver offers five torque settings that range from soft for delicate tasks to max for those requiring more power. This flexibility ensures that the Bosch GO can handle a variety of tasks with precision, making it a standout choice for both professional and home use.As I'd expect for a Bosch product, owners are impressed by the quality of the screwdriver, commenting that it feels almost like an industrial product.Bosch GO screwdriver tech specs: Rotation speed:360 rev/minBattery type:3.6V 1,500mAh lithium battery |Torque:2.5~5.0Nm electric Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon The DeWalt 20V MAX XR impact driver is a powerhouse in the realm of heavy-duty electric screwdrivers, designed to handle the most demanding tasks with ease.This tool stands out with its impact drive feature, which does more than just turn fasteners. Instead, it delivers a powerful, rattling force that can break stubborn fasteners loose, making it significantly more powerful than a standard screwdriver. This capability makes it ideal for a variety of applications, from driving screws to tackling nuts and bolts. It's so robust, I've even successfully used it to undo car wheel nuts.Equipped with a three-speed impact driver, this tool features a high-efficiency brushless motor that can deliver up to 1,825 in-lbs of maximum torque, which is more than enough to drive long, large-diameter screws with ease. For added convenience, the DeWalt 20V MAX XR also includes built-in LEDs to brighten up dim workspaces, ensuring precision even in poorly lit conditions.This tool is a true workhorse, ideal for anyone needing a reliable, powerful screwdriver for tough jobs, and the online reviews concur with this assessment.DeWalt 20V MAX XR impact driver tech specs:Rotation speed:3250 rev/minBattery type:20V, from 1.5Ah to 5Ah lithium battery |Torque:up to 190Nm Pros Perfect for heavy-duty work Great for screws and nuts/bolts Cons Big and chunky Only for tasks that need a powerful driver The DeWalt 20V MAX XR impact driver is a powerhouse in the realm of heavy-duty electric screwdrivers, designed to handle the most demanding tasks with ease.This tool stands out with its impact drive feature, which does more than just turn fasteners. Instead, it delivers a powerful, rattling force that can break stubborn fasteners loose, making it significantly more powerful than a standard screwdriver. This capability makes it ideal for a variety of applications, from driving screws to tackling nuts and bolts. It's so robust, I've even successfully used it to undo car wheel nuts.Equipped with a three-speed impact driver, this tool features a high-efficiency brushless motor that can deliver up to 1,825 in-lbs of maximum torque, which is more than enough to drive long, large-diameter screws with ease. For added convenience, the DeWalt 20V MAX XR also includes built-in LEDs to brighten up dim workspaces, ensuring precision even in poorly lit conditions.This tool is a true workhorse, ideal for anyone needing a reliable, powerful screwdriver for tough jobs, and the online reviews concur with this assessment.DeWalt 20V MAX XR impact driver tech specs:Rotation speed:3250 rev/minBattery type:20V, from 1.5Ah to 5Ah lithium battery |Torque:up to 190Nm Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best electric screwdriver? While our overall top pick is the Lifegoo Mini Electric Screwdriver, the bottom line is it all depends on how much power you need. I find myself using the precision electric screwdriver mostly for electronic repairs, the big impact driver for bigger construction and automotive jobs, and the others for those in-between jobs. So, ultimately, what I've done here is pick the best of the best in each category, and it's now up to you to decide how many electric screwdrivers you have space for in your life. Electric screwdriverPriceChargerTorqueReplaceable batteryBits includedBuilt-in LED lightLifegoo electric screw $47 USB-C Low No Yes, 48 Yes Arrowmax SES Max$80 USB-C LowNo Yes, 70Yes HOTO electric screwdriver $45USB-C Medium No Yes, 12 Yes DuroFort 8V Cordless Screwdriver $40DC adapter Medium No Yes, 89Yes Bosch GO electric screwdriver $77microUSB Medium to high No Yes, 2 No DeWalt 20V MAX XR impact driver $126Proprietary High power Yes No Yes Show more Which electric screwdriver is right for you? Choose this electric screwdriver ifYou want/needLifegoo electric screwdriver A low-power, precision screwdriver for fine work. If you spend time fixing electronic gadgets, this is your screwdriver. Arrowmax SES Max A high-tech precision screwdriver that works like magic. Very ergonomic and super comfortable to use.HOTO electric screwdriver An electric screwdriver with a bit more power. This is best suited to general DIY use. Vastar 7.2E electric screwdriver A great budget option for the occasional DIYer. Bosch GO electric screwdriver A more professional electric screwdriver with more advanced safety features. If you are a tradesperson and use your tools daily, this is a good pick because it will withstand heavy daily use. DeWalt 20V MAX XR impact driver This one is all about power. Just at home doing up or undoing rust nuts and bolts as it is screwed, this is perfect for those heavy, stubborn jobs. Show more How did I choose these electric screwdrivers? When testing and reviewing the best electric screwdrivers to curate this list, I weighted the following factors:Power: I've looked at a range of different electric screwdrivers, and the primary difference between them is power. I want a precision screwdriver to have enough power to loosen and tighten tiny screws found in things like smartphones and laptops but not so much power that it can cause damage. At the other end, I want all the power that a tool can deliver to free up rusty, stuck fasteners.Battery life: I need my tool to be good for more than one screw. Unbelievably, I tested numerous electric screwdrivers that couldn't cope with more than a few screws before needing a recharge. That's just no good.Durability: I tested each of the electric screwdrivers here on several hundred fasteners -- screws, nuts and bolts -- to help filter out the tools that are going to let you down.Quality of accessories: If the electric screwdriver is supplied with screwdriver bits, I want these to be high-quality parts that won't break or damage fasteners.Value: Tools are one of those things where you can spend crazy money on things. While this might pay off if you are a tradesperson and you use and rely on them daily, the average home user can get away with something a bit more budget-friendly. With these picks, you can rest assured that you're getting the best bang for your buck. Show more What size bits to electric screwdrivers take? Most screwdrivers take standard 1/4-inch hex bits, and these are widely available. Note, however, that precision screwdrivers take the much smaller 4 mm bits. Show more Are electric screwdrivers more powerful than regular handheld screwdrivers? Regular electric screwdrivers max out at about the same power that you could deliver by hand, and that's because the limiting factor is how tightly you can grip the screwdriver.Because of its different shape and the fact that it uses an impacting hammer action to work the fastener, the impact driver is capable of more power. Show more Are electric screwdrivers safe to use in high-voltage applications? No, none of these tools are rated for high voltage. Electric screwdrivers are generally not safe to use in high-voltage applications as they do not have the necessary insulation to protect users from electric shocks. High-voltage environments require tools with special insulation to ensure user safety. Show more Is there a risk of damaging screws when using an electric screwdriver? Not any more than if you misuse a regular screwdriver. However, if you are new to electric screwdrivers, I recommend practicing with the tool before using it for real-world jobs. Also, remember that the screwdriver bits themselves are consumables, and you'll need to replace them when they get worn. Show more Are there alternative electric screwdrivers worth considering? Here are a couple of alternative electric screwdrivers worth considering. Both of these are perfect for someone who does a bit of DIY every so often -- maybe assembling flat-packed furniture or putting up shelves -- but would rather use battery power as opposed to muscle power. Show more Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends