Drill-Driver
Affiliate link — we may earn a commissionA drill-driver combines drilling (boring holes) and driving (fastening screws) in one tool. It has a keyless chuck, a clutch ring, and usually two speed ranges. Speed 1 is high torque and low RPM for driving. Speed 2 is high RPM and lower torque for drilling. This covers about 90% of household and light-pro work. It doesn't have an impact mechanism, so it won't handle heavy fastening or masonry. A hammer drill-driver adds the hammer mode for concrete. An impact driver is a separate tool altogether, built only for fastening.
Why It Matters
The drill-driver is the first cordless tool most people buy, and it covers the widest range of tasks. Pick one that matches your battery platform and has enough torque for the materials you work with. Don't confuse it with an impact driver.