What is the difference between an electric screwdriver and a drill

Let’s get to the bottom of this question: What is the difference between a drill and an electric screwdriver, and which is better??

In the store for construction tools you can find a huge number of different devices, facilitating finishing work. For example, a screwdriver and a drill look quite similar in appearance, so many people think that they are designed to perform the same functions. Many craftsmen even intentionally use a screwdriver to drill holes. But in fact, these two tools have significant differences.

To find the differences between a drill and a screwdriver, it is necessary to consider them in detail. These tools have external similarities, but they also have a huge number of design and functional differences. The principle of operation is also different. In this article, we will understand the difference between an electric screwdriver and a drill.

Drill

A drill is a hand-held electrical device made in the shape of a gun.

It is used to drill holes in workpieces made of wood, metal, bricks, plastic or concrete (iron-concrete structures).

The drill is most often used during construction work or renovation of premises in industrial or domestic conditions.

Modern models of tools have additional functions. For example, it can be used as a surface grinder, angle grinder or construction mixer.

The drill consists of the following elements:

  • Casing made of plastic or aluminum with a rubberized handle and an auxiliary handle;
  • Collector motor with rotor, starter, armature and brushes;
  • Quick-action chuck (used to hold the tool);
  • Start button that locks in a certain position during long hours of work;
  • Handle for speed adjustment (must be set according to the material to be worked);
  • A power cord for connection to a power outlet;
  • Metal limiter (made in the form of a rod, necessary to control the depth of the holes);
  • LED illumination for accuracy.

Before you start your tasks, you should set the depth limiter to the desired position, as well as adjust the speed. Do this, depending on the structure of the material (the harder the workpiece, the less revolutions are required).

Then gripping the tool by the handle and pressing the trigger. Be sure to point the nozzle along the same axis as the hole in the material. It is not allowed to change the angle. From the spindle, the torque is transmitted to the gearbox, which allows the drill to enter the prepared surface. Most drills develop a fairly high speed, so you should do all work carefully.

Important! When working with a drill it is recommended to use safety glasses. Otherwise the fine particles of construction dust can get into the eyes and damage the eyesight.

electric screwdriver

A screwdriver is a hand tool made in the form of a gun.

It is designed for loosening or tightening screws, screws, self-tapping screws and other hardware with threaded hexagonal or slotted heads.

It is often used at home and in the workplace. The screwdriver is easy to install or dismantle furniture, roofing, fences.

If the tool comes with a special nozzle, it is also used for grinding surfaces and drilling holes, thereby the manufacturer has combined a drill and an electric screwdriver in one tool. The screwdriver can be operated either with a plug or battery. Some models operate with compressed air (pneumatics). The construction of the tool consists of the housing, the mounting unit, the electrical and mechanical part, as well as the protection and adjustment system.

The components of the screwdriver design:

  • The housing is made of metal or plastic with a rubberized handle;
  • The electric (or gas) motor that turns the nozzles;
  • Planetary gearbox (performs the transmission from the motor to the spindle with the clamp);
  • Adjustment coupling, which is connected to the cartridge;
  • The clamp chuck (holds the nozzles in place);
  • Electronic CU (there is a reversing switch and a start button on it);
  • Battery or power cord.

In order for the tool to function, a bit with a hexagonal shank must be inserted and locked in the chuck. The torque is also set with the socket (depending on the model, there can be 8 to 5 positions). When the start button is pressed, the motor is activated and the planetary reduction gear starts to rotate the spindle and the chuck with the bit. The more force is applied, the higher the speed is.

Once the self-tapping screw is completely screwed into the surface, the resistance is significantly increased. This causes the ratchet to slip and stops the transmission. If it is necessary to unscrew the self-drilling screw, the reverse comes into play. It triggers the bits in the opposite direction.

No particular safety precautions are necessary to use the cordless rotary screwdriver. You only need to be attentive and careful during work with the nozzles.

Comparison

To find the differences between the tools, a comparative analysis should be made. You can assess the characteristics of the devices and the types of work that can be done using them. Only then the master will be able to determine which tool will be better for him.

According to technical characteristics

Each device has individual characteristics. expensive models have a high power, and budget versions are often not able to drill holes of sufficient depth. But the tools also have common characteristics that are common to most popular models.

  • Screwdriver. Models for private use most often have a torque of 16 Nm and rotation speed of 600 rpm. Professional tools boast 130 Nm and 1,300 rpm. Batteries come in several varieties. The nickel-cadmium battery can be charged and discharged fully up to a thousand times. Lithium-ion battery has no memory factor, so it is safe to recharge at any time. There is also a nickel-metal-hybrid battery. It has enough capacity for 500 full charges, but it is not possible to use the tool at low temperatures. The screwdriver is also available in two types of chucks: a key chuck (or jaw chuck) and a quick-action chuck with one or two sockets.
  • The drill. Classic tools have a power of 0.6 kW, as well as the ability to regulate speed. The machine has a chuck, as well as a wheel for setting the speed and a mode switch. Also often present are electronic controls and an accessory holder. To protect the mechanism from breakage and unscrewing screws, there is reverse. Its position allows to use this function with the finger of the working hand.

The above information indicates that the speed of the drill is much higher than that of the screwdriver. Consequently, it can be used to perform large amounts of work more quickly.

Screwdriver for application and use

Drills and screwdrivers are used for many different applications. Their differences are as follows:

  • a screwdriver is designed for mounting or dismounting screws, self-tapping screws, nuts and other fasteners with thread. The main distinctive feature of the tool is the ability to adjust the torque. It helps to deepen the screws to the right position in the work surface. The screw head does not go into the wall, but stays flush with it. in addition, some modern models have a function of grinding and drilling with additional accessories. Of course, performing side tasks with a screwdriver will be less effective than with specialized equipment.
  • Drill was invented for making holes in different surfaces (wood, metal, plastic, concrete). It differs from a screwdriver in that its main performance indicator is rotational speed. This tool is also capable of performing additional functions: grinding, cutting metal or wooden parts. It can be used as a drill, but it should be done carefully. The design of the device does not have a screwing depth limiter, so it is easy to tear the slits or press the hardware too deep into the surface.

Important! For some types of work, it is sufficient to use one of the tools. However, if you have no experience in the construction field, it is better to stock up on all devices, otherwise the end result will be disappointing.

A drill and a screwdriver look alike, but their construction and functionality are different. If the main task that a person plans to perform after the purchase of the tool. screwing screws, then it is just worth choosing a screwdriver. If he needs the tool as a device for drilling holes, it will be better to opt for a drill.

What an electric screwdriver is for and what it does

Keeping your home or apartment comfortable means doing small repairs all the time. Power tools make work easier. One of these “helpers” became an electric screwdriver. It can cope with such frequently recurring tasks:

  • Mounting work with self-tapping screws, screws, screws.
  • Drilling holes in walls, doors, furniture.
  • Installing or removing fasteners (dowels or anchors).

Important! Low weight and autonomy in operation are the advantages of the tool.

What to look for when choosing a screwdriver?

Torque control

This function makes it possible to adapt the torque to the specific task in hand. For example, high torque is needed to screw self-tapping screws into solid wood, and low torque is needed to fasten drywall so as not to damage the material.

It should be noted that the torque control is absolutely in all drills screwdrivers, because with the help of the collar, in fact, and sets the drilling mode. The only difference between the models may be in the number of positions. If you have to work with a lot of different density of materials, it is worth taking with a large number of modes, which will allow you to adjust the device as accurately as possible. If you need a device bought for a trivial home repair, you can not pay attention to the number.

Punch mode

An impact drill can have two different modes: drilling with a hammer and screwing with a hammer. Tapping mode increases the impact force so the screw goes in faster and deeper, even in very hard material. In drill mode, the impact increases the drill bit force, so drilling metal and wood is faster. A demonstration of the impact mode can be seen in the powerful DeWALT DCD996P2, which is capable of drilling holes of up to 15 mm in metal and up to 55 mm in wood.

True, the impact mode is not needed in all jobs. For example, it is seldom used in furniture assembly, so carpenters do not need it. But it really comes in handy for drilling through interior walls.

Motor brake

Some devices have a mechanism that brakes the motor immediately after the power button is turned off. That stops the chuck and bit almost immediately and prevents the unit from being held in the air for too long. It is especially important that heavy models weighing more than 2 kg have this function, because such “waiting” for the chuck to stop can strongly fatigue the hand during prolonged work.

Safety clutch

The safety clutch is a mechanism that protects the motor from damage when loads are suddenly applied, for example, when a drill bit jams in a workpiece. At this critical load, the overload clutch disengages the chuck shaft and the motor to prevent damage.

Safety clutch is quite rare, and that only in cordless models. For example, it is in the Bosch GSR 18V-60, and it is reusable. Note that some models have a safety clutch, but in the characteristics of the product it is listed as “electronic motor protection”. If you want reliability and motor durability, go for a model with a safety clutch.

Brushless motor

It is also called a commutatorless motor. The main feature of such a motor is a higher efficiency than a brush motor, i.e. lower power consumption for the same useful power. While power consumption is not a big deal with cordless models because there is always power, it is a big deal with cordless ones. Brushless motors consume less power but deliver more power. A powerful German drill and electric screwdriver AEG BSB 18CBL, which can drill not only metal and wood, but also concrete, is a striking representative of brushless devices.

Another advantage of brushless motors is the absence of sparks, which is useful when working in fire hazardous areas. Brushless motors are not cheap, so if you have a limited budget, it is better to consider models with a collector engine.

Why do you need an electric screwdriver?

Equipping drills with compact batteries contributed to the creation of screwdrivers, which opened up new possibilities for carpentry, assembly and other work. They are especially useful in tight spaces, for dismantling and assembling wooden and metal structures, installing drywall parts.

This tool does not look much like a drill. However, it was specifically designed for quick work with screws, screws and self-tapping screws. There are models that can also perform drilling operations. The screwdrivers are engineered to develop a powerful torque. High rotational speeds are not permissible here. This is ensured primarily by a special gearbox that reduces the speed to 200-300 rpm with a simultaneous increase in torque. Such a gearbox is controlled by a special regulator that sets the force needed to tighten without distorting the screw, screw or screwdriver.

To prevent jamming, there is a multi-speed reversing device and a system that prevents overloading. an electric screwdriver can be equipped with nozzles that make it possible to open and tighten nuts. An electric impact screwdriver tightens screws or nuts with a series of low-force high-frequency blows.

A special release clutch sets the screwing force. It also stops the chuck in case of overload. The use of batteries combined with the handle of an electric screwdriver has made it extremely popular in construction, assembly production, and in the repair of machines and mechanisms. With a removable power supply, an electric screwdriver can function for a long time, which can be increased by using the most advanced batteries.

See the difference

A drill and an electric screwdriver are good for the functions for which they were designed. The drill makes it possible to drill a hole quickly and accurately. Screwdrivers are also fast for tightening and unscrewing screws, nuts, bolts and screws. At the same time, there are certain differences between the two tools.

  • The drill bit holder in the drill is a quick-action chuck for round drill bits. The special holders for the hexagonal socket of the power screwdriver are designed for the hexagonal end of the power bit.
  • A drill, even if adjustable, is not accurate enough to tighten the fastener, which can cause damage to the screw head or the bit that tightens it

An electric screwdriver has a special clutch that allows you to adjust the force. As a result, the screw or screwdriver is screwed in to the desired depth.

Types of drills and screwdrivers

Variety of screwdrivers

Tools for installing / removing self-tapping screws are different. depending on various criteria are divided into types.

  • Electric mains screwdriver has a cord with a plug, plugs into the socket (220 V), does not depend on the time of operation. It weighs little, is relatively inexpensive and can be used for a long time. But useless when no mains power is available.
  • Cordless electric screwdriver works on batteries, easy to use, not “tied” to mains electricity. But it weighs more and costs more than its previous counterpart. Requires periodic recharging.
  • Household models are relatively cheap, but have low power and little equipment. Used infrequently; when working you need long pauses.
  • Professional versions are more powerful. able to work an entire shift without interruption. They come with hard-wearing parts and are more expensive.

Machines are also differentiated according to their application. You can buy an electric screwdriver at the same time with a cable and battery. Versions for 6-point drill bits and grinding attachments available. Versions available with impact function and pneumatic drive.

Variety of drills

Modern drills are not only equipped with standard drill bits: as a cutting edge are used pins, diamond drill bits and other types of accessories. Any bits can be fixed in 2 ways: with self-clamping and with key.

  • Self-clamping tools are equipped with a chuck that fixes the drill in a few movements. For most jobs, such a design simplifies operation and speeds up the task at hand.
  • The second option of fixing the drill is carried out with a wrench: on its one end there is a disk with teeth, on the other. a T-handle. This version is seldom used. only in older, large-sized models for material of high hardness.

Modern drills have additional options. Shock and pulse drills are used for deep “drilling” in concrete. When working in mines, models with a pneumatic operating principle are used. The following versions are also used: drills-drills, diamond drilling, angle drills, mixers.

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Drill

The drill’s main function is drilling. However, if you have the speed control and reverse (and they are now on most models), it can be used as an electric screwdriver.

However, they do not have any mechanism that automatically prevents the bit from coming loose.

Often, when screwing a screwdriver drill its flat may be too sunk into the material, or spline bits are twisted in the flat, so they can break off.

So here you have to rely only on your hands and head.

As for the drill, the verdict is. Buy it if you’re going to predominantly drill. But at the same time keep in mind that sometimes it can be used as an electric screwdriver, which, after all, is in any case more convenient than turning with a screwdriver.

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What is the difference between a drill and an electric screwdriver?

Replenishing their toolbox, people often wonder what the difference between a drill and an electric screwdriver, and whether one tool can be replaced in the work with another. However, first of all there is a question of expediency and necessity of such substitutions. It must be said that the desire to save a certain amount of money is rarely successfully combined with the desire to facilitate their work. Of course, if you have a case, you can make a mixer out of an ordinary drill.

But this know-how is usually used only when absolutely necessary.

A simple example: you can certainly hammer a nail out of a wall with a pliers, but the more likely result is that the nail head will be bitten off. And it is faster and more convenient to do it with a pair of pliers.

You can also try to hammer in a nail with the same pliers. However, you are likely to bend it. And a hammer will complete the task in seconds.

And these are the most simple, primitive tools! Never mind the more technologically advanced equipment.

Proved by craftsmen: every tool must have a rather limited scope for which it is intended. And the invention of the wooden bicycle today will be left to amateur novices.

What is the difference between the drill and the electric screwdriver, you can list by completely different parameters. We suggest that you analyze the following characteristics in order to understand these differences, and consequently learn the aspects of application of the compared tools in repair and construction.

Purpose

This is first and foremost: it is a drill and an electric screwdriver are completely different.

The drill was originally invented to make holes in a variety of structured surfaces. Its range of application has grown enormously over time.

Now the tool can be used for mixing concrete and adhesive mortars (although not on a very large scale), for roughness removal by grinding. you just need to change the nozzles.

And there are a great many of them invented in this tool!

difference, electric, screwdriver, drill

Also, modern drills are equipped with a mechanism that allows you to switch them to the impact mode (impact drill), to cope with particularly durable materials. concrete or stone. But the essence remains the same: the drill is primarily for drilling.

Yes, it also happens to be used for screwing screws. Especially unscrupulous builders like to carry out such use of a drill. But often the fastener is placed at an angle, it enlarges the hole when screwing it in (and fixes it badly as a result). in general, it is a modern illustration of nail hammering with pliers.

The tasks performed by an electric screwdriver are inherent in the very name. It is designed for screwing in and removing fasteners that have threads (self-tapping screws, screws of different lengths and sizes).

You could say it’s an electric screwdriver.

And fundamentally important in the design of an electric screwdriver is not the tip of the tool at all. so you can simply adapt to the drill intelligently designed drill bit held in the slots on the head of the screw.

The essence of an electric screwdriver is the locking mechanism that immediately stops rotation when the maximum resistance of the material is reached. The screwdriver works by placing the object being screwed into a rougher material, or by hiding its head completely within the surface of the workpiece that is being joined.

Such protection prevents both tool failure and breakage of the fastener or partial destruction of the surface where the screw is driven.

Screwing into different materials requires different forces, so the electric screwdriver is equipped with a regulator, by which this impact is dosed.

It should be said that an electric screwdriver can partially replace the drill itself and even drill a hole in a not very strong material. However, it takes much longer than with a drill. Manufacturers insist not to use an electric screwdriver in this direction due to the high risk of its breakage.

Technical differences

They may not seem important compared to the difference in purpose, but they exist and need to be known in order to use both tools correctly.

  • Rotation speed. The drill, even if not equipped with a percussion mechanism, has a much higher speed. This is because it is, in principle, invented for breaking, overcoming obstacles. The speed of rotation contributes to a faster solution to the task at hand. For screwing in fasteners, the high speed is only a hindrance, because it reduces the accuracy of the work.
  • Inertia torque. An electric screwdriver has virtually no peorator. The chuck stops instantly when the button is released. When the drill is switched off, the drill bit continues to rotate for some time, which often causes injury, especially for the not very experienced beginner user.
  • Weight. The drill is considerably heavier than its counterpart. the weight also helps to deal with the obstacle faster. The electric screwdriver’s low weight allows for more precise, jewel-like work.
  • Safety technology. The safety precautions are much more serious when working with a drill: the high speed of rotation causes atomization of particles of the material in which the hole is made. This is why protective goggles are necessary. An electric screwdriver is almost harmless, both because of the slower twisting action of the chuck and because it has other, non-destructive uses.
  • Operating modes. Modern drills can be switched from drilling to tapping, i.e. there are two types of operation. With an electric screwdriver, only the direction of rotation is switched, plus the force is adjustable. That is, it can only work in one mode. Some manufacturers equip their screwdrivers with an impact mechanism. Experts do not advise buying such hybrids: the second role, aimed at destruction, they still play weaker than impact drills, and the accuracy of the main task (screwing) is lost.

Having clarified for himself the difference between the drill and the electric screwdriver, the prudent owner will select a set of tools, based on his needs.

If minor repairs in the house are infrequent, you can buy a hybrid. a drill-electric screwdriver with impact function: you will have to use all the features rarely, so why spend on highly specialized tools. True, you will have to sacrifice the accuracy of screwing.

For constant work, both a drill and an electric screwdriver are bought (by the way, this is the most common choice). And if you also have to screw in more than once a decade, then they are purchased as a set and peoratoratora, designed specifically for the destruction of complex materials with which the drill can no longer cope.

When it is preferable to use an electric screwdriver drill

Choose a cordless screwdriver drill is optimal when you plan to work for short periods with different types of work tools, bits or drills. Choose a clean electric screwdriver or drill if a large amount of work is being done. Each type has certain specifics in doing the work.

Buying one all-purpose tool will smooth out the impact on your budget and allow you to do a wide range of jobs. Different tools will be combined in one machine.

The 2021 ranking puts manufacturers Metabo, Interskol and Makita in the top models. Windsor electric screwdriver drill or other, lesser-known, brand will also last long. it’s a matter of taste. The best cordless drill. Makita and Interskol. What’s the best way to buy a tool like a mini electric screwdriver, you don’t have to worry about when choosing DeWALT and Bosch brands.

The best cordless drills screwdrivers have good batteries and allow you to work for hours on end (e.g., Pobeda). Torque of 30 Nm is sufficient for home work.

As for the choice of functionality, it is better to choose a drill instead of an electric screwdriver for those who do not work with tools every day, and need different accessories and drills.

When it is preferable to use an electric screwdriver drill

The electric screwdriver is the right choice when short-duty work with different types of power tools, bits or drills is planned. Choose a clean electric screwdriver or drill if a large amount of work is being done. Each type has its own specifics in doing the job.

Buying one versatile tool will smooth out the impact on your budget and allow you to perform a wide range of work. One machine will combine the work of different working tools.

The rating of 2021 in the top models brings manufacturers Metabo, Interskol and Makita. Electric screwdriver drill Windsor or other, less well-known, brand will also last a long time. it’s a matter of taste. The best cordless drill. Makita and Interskol. What better to buy such a tool as a mini drill as an electric screwdriver, you can not worry about when choosing brands DeWALT and Bosch.

The best cordless drills, screwdrivers are equipped with good batteries and allow you to work for hours on end (e.g., Pobeda). 30 Nm of torque is good enough for housework.

As for the choice of functionality, it is better to choose a drill instead of an electric screwdriver for those who do not work with the tool every day, and need different attachments and drills.

The difference between a drill and an electric screwdriver

How to choose a cordless drill. electric screwdriver

Power tools are the toys of grown guys. I can’t describe my own emotions when I go to the store to buy a new power tool.

The first of these assistants in the works, I got a cordless electric screwdriver. Means I have had the opportunity to get this kind of power tool more than once.

Next I will tell you where to take into account when buying a cordless drill. electric screwdriver.

The undisputed advantage of cordless tools is a wide range of application. Unlike a cordless tool, to work with a cordless drill. electric screwdriver is an option where there is no ability to pull the cable. In addition, cordless tool is more comfortable, although it does not weigh a little.

Modern cordless drills have two functions, drilling does not twist-off screws or self-tapping. How to find what “sharpened” any model? Everyone understands that some models work better as a screwdriver, and the other is better to drill. Here it depends on two things: the torque of the power tool and the RPM.

Torque is the force transmitted from the drill. electric screwdriver to the drill bit or screw heads. The highest speed is the rotation speed (revolutions per minute). For a drill need about 1000 RPM, although for the electric screwdriver enough and not even than just 500.

Additional fundamental factor in the process of selecting a drill. an electric screwdriver is the battery. There are three varieties of this part of the power tool: nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), nickel cadmium (NiCd) not lithium-ion (Li-Ion).

The last type of battery is not yet completely widespread in power tools. Of metal-hydride not nickel-cadmium own choice should be made in favor of the first. Nickel-cadmium is not environmentally friendly. This battery contains a strong allergen, cadmium.

In addition, batteries labeled NiMH weigh less.

If you want your tool to work longer without recharging, choose a battery with a larger capacity. For occasional short work it is better to buy a spare battery. While one is working, the 2nd can be charged. Models probably come with a spare battery.

Drill Description

Unlike an electric screwdriver, evolved from a drill, so it is best able to drill holes. The material can be almost anything, from plastic to concrete, so it is actively used in construction work. With specialized attachments can replace the grinder, mixer, angle grinder.

The basic units are similar, but there are differences:

  • instead of the force at which the mechanism slips, a separate regulator changes the speed of rotation;
  • Often comes with a rod that allows you to limit the depth of drilling;
  • The impact drill also has a switch between basic drilling and an alternative impact mode (blows go along the axis of the nozzle, increasing the penetrating effect);
  • there is an additional two-handed grip to hold the tool at high RPM.

To work, you need to adjust the position of the limiter rod, choose the speed (on hard materials, it must be reduced). In this case, the number of revolutions is significantly higher. up to 1500 per minute. There is also a power button lock feature so that you don’t have to hold it in while you’re punching a long hole. Additionally, an average cordless drill differs from a typical electric screwdriver in that it has a shorter operating time because it requires more power.

Differences between the tools

Most importantly: the difference lies in the different roles. If an electric screwdriver is a means of assembly/disassembly, the drill is usually used in the preparatory stage, when you need to make a hole or select a groove.

Differences in speed and torque

Depending on the type of tool, there is a different approach to adjustment. With an electric screwdriver, the focus is on the torque limit when screwing in, and the rpm either does not change at all, or there are 2, rarely 3 steps. With a drill, the speed of rotation is king, and the force is never limited. As a consequence:

  • Because of the different rotational speeds, the tools also stop differently. The nozzle of an electric screwdriver stops turning almost immediately after releasing the button. this allows you to stop the screw at the right level so as not to damage the material. In an electric drill, a drill that has been accelerated to high speed has inertia, so it is always spinning for a while after it is switched off. This has to be taken into account to avoid injury;

Differences in power supply

Both variants can go in a standalone cordless version. However, there is a difference:

  • Screwdrivers for the most part are of a gun type that is battery powered, whereas drills more often use a mains lead and have no time limit. The battery gives additional weight, so when working for a long time may be less convenient. you have to pay for autonomy;
  • All other things being equal, it is worth focusing on models with interchangeable batteries. Although the capacity of 1.A 5-2 Ah for household chores is more than enough, you’d better have a substitute handy.

Differences in nozzle rotation

The spinning features have the most impact on the possible application:

  • A typical electric screwdriver is a no-impact drill that can only twist. It is not ideal for drilling in hard materials. But a drill with an impact mechanism can easily cope with concrete (just need a drill with a reinforced tip). In domestic applications, it is little inferior to the peorator;
  • Attachment with an electric screwdriver is almost always with an ergonomic and safer quick-clamping mechanism, but drills can also use the installation with a wrench. In the latter case, simplicity is lost, but a more secure fixation is provided. Due to this, the drill is less likely to spontaneously loosen during work;
  • Drill bits are usually round, while electric screwdriver bits are typically 6-sided;
  • The impulse mode of a screwdriver will cope where a drill at high RPM will simply rip the head off;
  • Some screwdrivers come with a screw feed mechanism that frees up the second hand. This is useful if you need to fasten, for example, a ceiling or install drywall;
  • The difference in equipment (the drill often has a depth stop) makes the electric screwdriver a lesser choice for preparing dozens/hundreds of identical holes.

Differences between tools

Most important: the difference lies in the different role. Whereas an electric screwdriver is an assembly/disassembly tool, a drill is usually used in the preparatory stage when a hole must be made or a groove selected.

Difference in speed and torque

Depending on the type of tool, a different approach to adjustment applies. With an electric screwdriver, the focus is on the screwing force limit, and the rpm either does not change at all, or there are 2, rarely 3 steps. With a drill, the speed of rotation is at the top of the list, and the force is never limited. As a consequence:

  • Because of the different rotational speeds, the tools also stop differently. The nozzle of an electric screwdriver stops turning almost immediately after releasing the button. this allows you to stop the screw at the right level so as not to damage the material. With an electric drill, a drill that has been accelerated to high speed has inertia, so it always spins for a while after it is switched off. This has to be taken into account so that you do not get injured;

Differences in power supply

Both are available in a stand-alone, battery-powered version. There is, however, a difference:

  • Screwdrivers for the most part are of the gun type, which is powered by a rechargeable battery, whereas drills more often use a mains cord and have no time limit. The battery gives extra weight, so it may be less convenient for long hours of work. you have to pay for autonomy;
  • Other things being equal, you should focus on models with interchangeable batteries in the kit. Although the capacity of 1.5-2 Ah for household chores is more than enough, better to have a replacement on hand.

Differences in nozzle rotation

The rotary features have the most impact on the possible application:

  • A typical electric screwdriver is impactless, it can only twist. It is not suitable for drilling in hard materials. But a drill with an impact mechanism can easily cope with concrete (just need a drill with a reinforced tip). In domestic use, it is little inferior to the peorator;
  • An electric screwdriver almost always uses the ergonomic and safer quick-clamping mechanism to attach the bit, but drills can also use a wrench. In the latter case, simplicity is lost, but a more secure hold is ensured. Due to this the drill is less often spontaneously loosened during work;
  • Drill bits are usually round, while electric screwdriver bits are typically 6-sided;
  • The screwdriver’s pulse mode will do the job where the drill at high RPM will just rip the head off;
  • Some screwdrivers come with a screw feed mechanism that frees up a second hand. This is useful if you need to fasten, for example, a ceiling or install drywall;
  • Differences in equipment (a drill often has a depth stop) makes an electric screwdriver a lesser choice for preparing dozens/hundreds of identical holes.

What’s the best choice

In short, both: with an electric screwdriver to twist, with a drill to drill. An electric screwdriver is ideal for joining or disconnecting threaded joints, installing wood and drywall. Thanks to the screwing force setting, the surface appearance can be preserved and the bit is prevented from spinning in the head of the metal.

Special tool for drywall

It can also drill small holes in soft materials. Also suitable for grinding. suitable for children than the drill in terms of safety.

The impact wrench or screwdriver is worth taking for old structures that need a lot of force to accurately rotate the hardware.

Electric screwdriver. for extensive work on domestic appliances and electronics. It is light, handy, and does not require much power.

If you need to drill

The drill is unbeatable for drilling. With percussion function suitable for almost all materials encountered in the home. Also high rotation speed combined with a special nozzle lets you cut through plastic or metal, and perform a lot of other operations. It can replace an electric screwdriver, but requires great skill. Because of the potential danger due to overdriving the drill bit, it is better not to be used by children or the physically handicapped.