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Our content is meticulously curated through independent research, testing, reviews, and AI-driven recommendations, all designed to present you with the finest product choices. When you make a purchase through our links, it could result in us earning a commission.5 Best Screw Guns for Every Budget—DIYer to Professional
The manual screwdriver is a brilliant invention. But not for large projects
Imagine tackling a drywall project, but every time you need to drive one of the 800 screws (*gasps*), you find yourself fumbling with a manual screwdriver. Sound like a headache you’d rather avoid?
This is where a screw gun can save the day. No more worrying about stripped screws or uneven surfaces. With the best screw gun, you can drive screws quickly and accurately, saving you time and effort. We chose our best overall pick based on three criteria: quality, affordability, and customer satisfaction. The BLACK+DECKER Screw Gun ranks at the top of our list.
Our Top Picks
5 Best Screw Guns of 2024
Best Overall
The BLACK+DECKER Screw Gun has a 4.6-star rating and over 2,000 were purchased this month alone. It has a 180 RPM motor, making it suitable for light household tasks. Likewise, its 4V MAX* battery is sufficient for small, occasional jobs. It offers cordless convenience and eliminates the hassle of finding an outlet.
Furthermore, its 2-in-1 design allows you to use it as both a screwdriver and a rechargeable flashlight. Plus, the 3-position pivoting handle ensures you can access tight spaces and work at different angles easily. For occasional home use, this could be the best screw gun, offering affordability and practical features. We ranked it best overall for its price, customer reviews, and high star rating from happy buyers.
Pros
- 2-in-1 design: screwdriver and rechargeable flashlight
- Built-in LED light for dark areas
- Cordless convenience with 4V MAX* battery
- Affordable and practical for home use
Cons
- For practical at-home use (not heavy-duty work)
Runner-up
The Milwaukee Screw Gun is best suited for professionals and serious DIYers who require a high-performance tool for various heavy-duty applications, including but not limited to rapid drywall installation. It’s highly rated at 4.6 stars, with over 100 units purchased this month. It boasts a powerful 4,500 RPM motor, making it suitable for fast-paced tasks. The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor delivers faster productivity than corded alternatives, and the Auto Start Mode minimizes noise and extends runtime by three times.
Likewise, the M18 REDLITHIUM XC5.0 battery pack powers through 64 drywall sheets per charge, while the CP2.0 handles 27 sheets per charge, providing cordless convenience. The ergonomic design ensures it’s lightweight, balanced, and comfortable for continuous use. Furthermore, the LED light on the foot of the tool enhances visibility in dark spaces, and the included belt clip adds portability and convenience. For those needing a reliable, high-performance tool, this could be the best screw gun. We ranked it as the runner-up for professional use due to its power, customer reviews, and high star rating.
Pros
- Powerful 4,500 RPM motor for fast-paced tasks
- Auto Start Mode reduces noise and extends runtime
- Ergonomic, lightweight design for comfortable use
- Built-in LED light for better visibility
Cons
- Powerful motor—so more expensive than best overall screw gun
Best Value
The Pink Power Screw Gun has a 3.6V rechargeable battery and a 200 RPM motor. While it doesn’t match the power of the Milwaukee or the BLACK+DECKER, it excels in areas that matter to casual users. Its lightweight design, at less than 12 ounces, makes it incredibly easy to handle. Most importantly, it has a 4.5-star rating from nearly 5,000 reviews.
Furthermore, the built-in LED work light is a significant advantage when working in dark or confined spaces, similar to the BLACK+DECKER but with the added benefit of real-time power monitoring through a battery gauge. This ensures you’re never caught off guard by a low charge. It offers a comprehensive set, including an 11-piece bit set and a drill bit adapter, all backed by a three-year warranty. We ranked it as the best value option due to its affordability, user-friendly features, and appealing design. For those looking for an attractive, easy-to-use tool for everyday tasks, this is definitely the best screw gun in terms of style.
Pros
- Pivoting head for tight spaces
- Built-in LED work light
- Comprehensive set with 11 bits
- Three-year warranty for peace of mind
Cons
- Less powerful than Milwaukee and BLACK+DECKER
Premium Choice
The DEWALT Drywall Screw Gun is the best choice for professionals and serious DIYers who need efficiency and precision in their drywall projects. It boasts a 4.5-star rating from over 1,400 reviews, reflecting its reliability and performance.
But what stands out the most about this premium screw gun? It has a powerful 20V battery, offering greater power than both the Milwaukee and BLACK+DECKER models. Further, its tool-free screw length adjustment button accommodates screws from 1 to 2 inches, allowing for quick adjustments without interrupting your workflow. Moreover, the screw length detent marks and screw drive depth gauge ensure precise screw placement, enhancing the quality of your work. The collated screw strip guide and magazine attachment release buttons add to its convenience, making screw loading and magazine removal straightforward. If you’re going to tackle a large drywall project, this is undoubtedly the best screw gun. The only downside? The price tag!
Pros
- Powerful 20V battery for heavy-duty tasks
- Tool-free screw length adjustment
- Precise screw drive depth gauge
- Collated screw strip guide
Cons
- Pricey
Honorable Mention
The HANMATEK Screw Gun is an excellent choice for those who need an affordable tool for light to medium-duty tasks. With a 4.4-star rating from nearly 2,000 reviews, it’s clear that users appreciate its performance and value.
The 11-piece kit features a rechargeable battery with a large capacity, ensuring you can use it continuously for extended periods. The kit includes 10 bits and an extension bar, making it suitable for hanging pictures, fixing toys, and repairing electrical devices. It charges easily via a Micro USB port, making it convenient to power up wherever you are. Compared to more powerful models like the DEWALT and Milwaukee, this screw gun is less powerful but excels in portability and ease of use. It’s lightweight, compact, and designed for one-handed operation. For those seeking a budget-friendly option with solid performance, this could be the best screw gun for light-duty applications. We ranked it as an honorable mention due to its affordability, value, and compact design.
Pros
- Rechargeable with large battery capacity
- Dual LED lights for better visibility
- Includes 10 bits and an extension bar
- Lightweight and compact design
Cons
- Less popular than the above screw guns
Choosing the Best Screw Gun: A User's Guide
Turn Minutes Into Seconds With the Best Screw Gun
Which Screw Gun Should You Get and Why?
1. BLACK+DECKER Screw Gun
- Best Screw Gun For: Home use, light-duty tasks, and budget-conscious buyers.
- Why Choose It: Its 2-in-1 design as a screwdriver and flashlight makes it versatile and practical for small, occasional jobs around the house. It also has a 4.6-star rating and flies off the shelves each month.
When You Need Batteries In a Hurry:
2. Milwaukee Screw Gun
- Best Screw Gun For: Professional contractors, serious DIYers, and heavy-duty use.
- Why Choose It: Its powerful 4500 RPM motor and M18 REDLITHIUM battery provide exceptional performance and productivity.
3. Pink Power Screw Gun
- Best Screw Gun For: Casual DIYers and those who love pink.
- Why Choose It: Lightweight, stylish, and user-friendly, this screw gun is perfect for light home improvement tasks and comes with a comprehensive accessory set.
4. DEWALT Screw Gun
- Best Screw Gun For: Precision tasks and professional use.
- Why Choose It: The 20V battery offers powerful performance, and the tool-free screw length adjustment ensures precision, making it perfect for large drywall projects.
5. HANMATEK Screw Gun
- Best Screw Gun For: Light-duty tasks and everyday home use.
- Why Choose It: Compact, affordable, and versatile, this screw gun kit is perfect for small repairs, furniture assembly, and other light-duty applications.
7 Benefits of Using a Screw Gun
- Drywall installation: perfect for quickly and efficiently installing drywall sheets.
- Furniture assembly: great for driving screws into furniture pieces without manual effort.
- Automotive repairs: useful for tasks like securing parts or panels during car maintenance.
- Home repairs: ideal for hanging shelves, pictures, and other household items.
- Woodworking: ensures precise screw placement when building or repairing wooden structures.
- Electronics Repair: handy for small screws in electronic devices and gadgets.
- DIY Projects: versatile tool for various DIY tasks, from building to repairing and creating.
What You Need to Consider When Choosing a Screw Gun
1. Consider Your Usage
First things first: what are you planning to use the screw gun for? This is the most important question. Are you a professional contractor working on extensive drywall projects, or a DIYer tackling occasional home repairs? Different needs call for different tools.
For heavy use, investing in the best screw gun for professionals can make a significant difference in productivity. If you’re more of a weekend warrior, a user-friendly option might be more your speed. Trust me, the right tool for the job can make all the difference.
2. Power and Speed
Let’s talk power. The voltage of the screw gun’s battery can give you an idea of its power. Higher voltage typically means more power, which is great for heavy-duty tasks.
For instance, when I needed something robust, I sought out the best screw gun for high-power applications. Speed, measured in RPM (revolutions per minute), determines how fast the screw gun drives screws.
For heavy-duty work, a higher RPM is beneficial. For more delicate tasks, slower speeds can offer better control. When choosing the best screw gun, consider how power and speed align with your project needs.
3. Battery Life and Charging
Nobody wants their tool to die in the middle of a project. So, look for screw guns with long-lasting batteries and quick charging times. For extensive projects, a screw gun with a reliable, high-capacity battery can be a lifesaver, providing extended run times.
For quick, smaller tasks, having a reliable backup is essential. The BLACK+DECKER Screw Gun is often considered the best screw gun for light-duty work due to its convenient charging options and decent battery life.
4. Ergonomics and Weight
You’re going to be holding this tool for extended periods, so it better be comfortable. For general home use, a lightweight model is easy to handle and reduces strain on your wrists. This makes the BLACK+DECKER Screw Gun a contender for the best screw gun in terms of comfort and ease of use.
5. Additional Features
Sometimes, the little extras can make a big difference. Working in dark or confined spaces? Built-in LED lights can be a game-changer, illuminating your work area. Pivoting heads are another fantastic feature for tight or awkward spaces.
Likewise, being able to quickly switch between driving and removing screws is important. For me, extra features often determine the best screw gun for my specific needs.
6. Price and Value
Finally, consider your budget. Higher-end models offer more power and features but come with a higher price tag. However, there are plenty of affordable options that provide excellent value for their price.
For overall value, finding a screw gun that strikes a perfect balance of price, features, and reliability can make it the best screw gun for those who want quality without breaking the bank.
Additionally, think about adding a reliable claw hammer and rubber mallet to your toolkit. These essential tools are a must-have for any well-equipped toolkit.
My Personal Picks
Undoubtedly, the BLACK+DECKER Screw Gun is my top choice. With a 4.6-star rating, it’s a standout in its category.
Moreover, if I were tackling a large drywall project, the DEWALT Drywall Screw Gun would be my choice.
The Times I Pulled the Door Handles Off
There was a time when I rented a flatlet and had a bit of a mishap with the door handles. Not once, but twice, I accidentally pulled the door handles off two separate doors.
The first time it happened, I was in a rush and didn’t realize my own strength. The handle came off with a loud snap, leaving me staring at a door with exposed screws.
A few weeks later, the same thing happened with another door. In my defense, the handles were fitted poorly. Thankfully, with the BLACK+DECKER Screw Gun, I was able to refit both door handles securely and quickly.
If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, though unlikely (*wink*), the BLACK+DECKER Screw Gun is a lifesaver. It’s a small investment that pays off big when you need it most.
Best Screw Gun FAQs
Is a screw gun the best tool to use for a drywall project?
A screw gun allows you to adjust the screw depth, which is a huge benefit while working on drywall. Although it works at a higher speed than a normal drill machine, deep preset depth can perform the job in a much more efficient way.
What is the difference between a screw gun and a drill machine?
Essentially, they differ in their main purpose. Screw guns are meant to drive screws in walls and blocks, and they have an adjustable depth. On the other hand, a drill machine is used to form a hole into different materials—so that you can drive screws into it later.
What is the best screw gun for general home use?
I'd recommend the BLACK+DECKER. It's versatile and easy to use, perfect for all those little jobs around the house. Plus, the built-in flashlight feature is a nice bonus when you're working in tight, dark spaces.
When should I choose the DEWALT Screw Gun over the BLACK+DECKER?
If you have heavy-duty tasks or large projects, the DEWALT Screw Gun is your go-to. It offers more power and features like a collated magazine for faster screw loading, which is a game-changer for professional or extensive DIY jobs. So, choose the BLACK+DECKER for smaller, everyday tasks, but reach for the DEWALT when you need serious performance.
Is the Milwaukee Screw Gun worth the investment?
Absolutely, the Milwaukee is worth the investment. It's designed for heavy-duty projects but is also fantastic for home use thanks to its precision and power.
