When you’re first starting out, it can be a challenge to know which tools to use and how to apply it. A solid drill and impact driver are essential when building data racks and installing equipment.

First Place

Milwaukee Tools M12 Fuel Impact

4-mode drive control provides greater control over output speed and power

2nd Place

DeWalt Xtreme 12V Max Impact

Brushless motor of the powered screwdriver is designed for maximum runtime and durability

3rd Place

Makita 12V Max CXT Brushless Cordless Impact

BL Brushless motor delivers 1,200 in.Lbs. Of max torque in an ultra compact design

We ran a poll in the Low Voltage Nation Facebook Group for “which impact driver do you use?”

Milwaukee blew every other tool out of the water with 284 votes.

Milwaukee Tools M12 Fuel 1/4″ Impact Driver

The M12 FUEL™ 1/4 in. Hex impact driver once again raises the bar for 12 V performance with best in class driving speed, power, and size. By focusing on productivity, this impact driver gets the job done faster by being over 20% faster in application speed vs. the competition. This tool outputs over 1,300 in-lbs of torque that allows the user to get more work done by completing a wide range of fastening. Measuring only 5.1 in. in length allows for unmatched access in tight spaces. The POWERSTATE brushless motor delivers up to 0-3, 300 RPM with constant power output to drive screws faster. 

• POWERSTATE brushless motor delivers 1300 in. lbs. of fastening torque for faster driving speeds
• REDLINK PLUS intelligence prevents damage to the tool and battery due to overloading or overheating
• REDLITHIUM batteries deliver more work per charge and more work over the life of the battery
• 4-mode drive control provides greater control over output speed and power

DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX* Cordless Screwdriver, 1/4-Inch

• The cordless screwdriver has 25% more power**
• The rechargeable screwdriver is 23% shorter**
• Brushless motor of the powered screwdriver is designed for maximum runtime and durability
• 1/4-inch quick release drop and load hex that accepts 1-inch bit tips
• 15 clutch settings for a variety of fastening and drilling applications
• 3 LEDs on nose for illumination onto work surface

Makita DT04Z 12V Max CXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Impact Driver

• BL Brushless motor delivers 1,200 in.Lbs. Of max torque in an ultra compact design
• Assist mode (a-mode) feature helps eliminate “screw cam-out” and “cross threading” by driving at low speed until tightening begins
• Variable 2-speed (0-1,300/0-3,000 RPM & 0-1,600/0-3,900 IPM) for a wide range of fastening applications
• Compact and ergonomic design at only 5-5/16″ long
• Weighs only 2.1 lbs. With battery for reduced operator fatigue (battery not included)

Related: Top 5 Tools For Structured Cabling Technicians