Are Cheap Impact Drivers Worth It?
When it comes to power tools, most people instinctively gravitate toward the big-name brands—think DeWalt, Milwaukee, or Makita. These brands are reliable, durable, and trusted by professionals worldwide. But what about the budget-friendly alternatives? Can a tool from Harbor Freight really stand up to the demands of a workshop?
I set out to answer that question by testing two of Harbor Freight’s impact drivers: the Bauer 20V Impact Driver and the Hercules ½-inch Ultra Torque Impact Wrench.
First Impressions of the Bauer Impact Driver
I’ve used the Bauer impact driver for about a year and a half, almost daily, and it continues to perform without issue. It came with the tool, a 20V 1.5Ah battery, and a charger.
What surprised me most is how closely it matches my DeWalt drivers in terms of build and feel:
Battery Performance: Battery life holds up just as well as my DeWalt batteries. The pack snaps in and out securely without feeling brittle.
Ergonomics: The grip is sturdy and comfortable, very comparable to higher-end models.
Fit & Finish: If I picked this up blindfolded, I’d be hard-pressed to say it wasn’t from a major brand. The switches, drive direction selector, and quick-connect chuck all feel smooth and dependable.
Durability: No odd smells, grinding noises, or overheating—issues that often plague cheap tools.
For my hobbyist-to-intermediate-level woodshop, this Bauer impact driver has been more than reliable.
The Hercules ½-Inch Ultra Torque Impact Wrench
My main reason for purchasing this tool was to break loose stubborn lug nuts—something my pneumatic impact wrench couldn’t consistently handle. The Hercules didn’t disappoint.
Here’s what stood out:
Power: The “Ultra Torque” branding is no exaggeration. It easily breaks loose lug nuts that even a cheater bar struggled with.
Battery System: Smooth insertion and removal, with a reliable battery indicator.
Weight & Feel: This tool is heavy—holding it all day would be tiring—but it feels solid and professional in hand.
Price Advantage: It cost about $250 less than comparable models from big-box stores.
For occasional use, it’s an incredible value. If I ran a tire shop using this tool all day, every day, I might consider investing in a higher-end brand. But for the average shop, it’s more than enough.
The Bottom Line
So, are cheap impact drivers worth it?
Yes—absolutely, for the right user. If you’re a hobbyist, DIYer, or run a small shop, Harbor Freight’s Bauer and Hercules impact drivers deliver impressive performance at a fraction of the cost of big-name brands.
If you rely on your tools daily to make a living, you might eventually want the added assurance of a premium brand. But for many users, the savings and surprising quality of these Harbor Freight tools make them well worth considering.
Have you tried budget-friendly tools in your shop? How did they compare to premium brands? Share your thoughts below!