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How Do Corded Impact Wrenches Differ From Their Cordless Counterparts?
Everyone knows that a quality impact wrench is essential for any auto repair job. Nevertheless, many people fail to recognize the value of investing in a quality impact wrench until it is too late. A home improvement project might go swimmingly or slog along for a long time, depending on whether or not you have an impact wrench. That’s why we’re going to compare and contrast corded and cordless impact wrenches in this piece. We’ll lay out the pros and cons of both options so you can make an informed choice.
What is an impact wrench?
A socket or other type of connector can be quickly broken free from any type of fastener with the help of an impact wrench (also known as an “impact driver”), which is a tool with a motorized spinning head (called an “impact mechanism”) that delivers a powerful rotating force to the socket or connector. When working with rusted or frozen fasteners or when removing components that are too large to grasp with your fingers, an impact wrench comes in very handy. They excel both in tight quarters and on tough ground, such as concrete or asphalt.
While repairing automobiles, most people reach for impact wrenches. Light fixtures, plumbing, pipes, sheet metal, and so on all have standard sockets that may be used with one. Among the many varieties of impact wrenches are:
- Electric Impact Wrench
- Corded Impact Wrench
- Cordless Impact Wrench
- Air/Pneumatic Impact Wrench
What is a Corded Impact Wrench?
The impact wrench is corded and electrically powered and derives its formidable might from an AC (alternating current) power source, which enables it to undertake a plethora of tasks with remarkable ease. Essentially, it assumes the form of a drill-type apparatus with an attachment affixed to it that is endowed with the ability to unleash an unyielding and potent punch or torque. The robust nature of this tool makes it ideal for deployment on a hard, durable surface, such as concrete or asphalt, which makes it an excellent fit for the construction or maintenance industries.
The corded electric impact wrench is principally employed to tighten bolts and nuts by way of an externally applied force. This remarkable tool is versatile in its application, being ideally suited for a variety of purposes, such as operating within the confines of limited spaces, boring holes in metal, or tightening screws with alacrity. The corded electric impact wrench is capable of functioning with unrivaled efficiency on an array of surfaces, which may include metals, wood, plastic, or concrete. It is no surprise, then, that this indomitable device is a staple within the home improvement industry, where it occupies an exalted place in the pantheon of tools.
Highlight Features:
- powered by electricity
- More powerful than cordless impact wrenches
- Comes in various sizes.
- maximum torque output of up to 1400 ft-lbs
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What is a cordless impact wrench?
Impact wrenches that are cordless belong to a group of power tools known for their ability to run on rechargeable or battery power. They often take the form of tiny, handheld tools with variable-speed motors that make it possible to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts without having to connect directly to a power source. These impact wrenches are well suited for use in a variety of situations, including house repairs, camping trips, and jobs involving car or motorcycle maintenance, thanks to their extended battery life, which can vary from 2 to 3 hours.
Although they might not have nearly as much raw power as their corded counterparts, cordless impact wrenches nonetheless have enough torque and other performance qualities to meet a variety of needs. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from smaller, more portable ones to larger, more powerful ones with the added convenience of two batteries rather than one.
Highlight Features:
- Powered by rechargeable batteries
- Portable and easy to use
- lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Comes in various sizes.
- maximum torque output of up to 1000 ft-lbs
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Comparison between Cordless and Corded Impact Wrenches
There are benefits and drawbacks to both cordless and corded impact wrenches; picking the appropriate one is a matter of personal preference. If you only need an impact wrench occasionally, a cordless model could be your best bet for portability. But a corded impact wrench may be preferable if you need a more powerful tool for tough jobs or prolonged use.
Power source:
Power-wise, corded impact wrenches outperform their cordless counterparts. They are perfect for jobs that call for a lot of torque and can be used nonstop without needing to be recharged. They are less convenient because they need to be plugged into a power source.
Conversely, cordless impact wrenches are more convenient because they don’t require an electrical outlet. They shine when used occasionally and for jobs that call for less torque. However, their battery life is shorter, and their power is lower than that of corded impact wrenches.
Weight and Portability:
Compared to their corded counterparts, cordless impact wrenches are typically lighter and more portable. Without having to worry about a power cord’s constraints, they are effortlessly portable. On the other hand, corded impact wrenches are bulkier and heavier, and their reach is constrained by the length of the power cord.
Battery Life:
The increased battery life of cordless impact wrenches is between two and three hours. Impact wrenches with cords, on the other hand, can operate for extended periods of time without requiring recharging or replacement.
Durability:
Compared to corded variants, cordless impact wrenches are built with fewer moving components, making them more robust.
Performance:
While conducting heavy-duty work or traveling at fast speeds, cordless impact wrenches may start slower and lose power more rapidly. On the other hand, corded impact wrenches provide more power and torque, making them more suited for heavy-duty tasks.
Suitability:
Cordless impact wrenches are the perfect equipment for do-it-yourself homeowners who want the portability and simplicity of a simple tool. Corded impact wrenches are best utilized by professionals because they are made for commercial use.
Fastener Size:
Corded impact wrenches are better suited for bigger fasteners; however, cordless ones can be used with any size fastener.
Storage:
Due to their reduced size and lack of power connections, cordless impact wrenches are significantly easier to store and transport than corded ones.
Side-by-side comparison between a corded and cordless impact wrench
| Corded Impact Wrench | Cordless Impact Wrench |
| To operate the AC supply, you need to plug it into an electrical outlet. | Battery operated; no need to plug into an electrical outlet |
| The power supply cord is attached. | It doesn’t have any cord attached to it. |
| A corded impact wrench is more powerful for tightening multiple fasteners at the same time. | less powerful than corded for tightening multiple fasteners at the same time. |
| Corded tools shouldn’t be used in wet environments. | Cordless tools can be used in wet environments. |
| Ideal for do-it-yourself homeowners | Designed for commercial uses |
| Cordless tools are not safer to use. | Cordless tools are safer to use. |
| Corded impact wrenches are light, compact, and can be used indoors. | Cordless impact wrenches are light and compact and can be used indoors or outdoors. |
| A corded impact wrench is perfect for extended reach. | Cordless impact wrenches are great for tight spots. |
| Corded impact wrenches produce torque. | Not produce as much torque as a corded model. |
| Comparatively cheap in price | Expensive than a corded impact wrench |
Cordless vs. Corded-Electric Impact Wrench: Which One Is Better?
In order to choose a better tool, you will need to consider a few factors and the frequency of using the impact wrench. If you only need the tool once or twice a year and don’t need to carry it to the job site, go with a corded-electric option.
Meanwhile, if your project requires frequent working with the impact wrench and carrying it to the job site, a cordless option will be an ideal choice. Moreover, a cordless impact wrench will give you complete freedom when working in a tight corner. Remember, you will not get the required power output similar to the corded ones.
Final Words
In conclusion, your needs will determine whether you choose a corded or cordless impact wrench. A cordless impact wrench can be the ideal choice if you need a portable instrument for sporadic use. But a corded impact wrench can be a better option if you need a more potent tool for demanding jobs or prolonged use. Regardless of what you decide, spending money on a good impact wrench will ultimately save you time and effort.
