IPM (Impacts Per Minute)
Affiliate link — we may earn a commissionIPM counts how many axial strikes the mechanism delivers per minute. At 3,500 IPM, the tool hammers the anvil 3,500 times in 60 seconds. Each strike advances the fastener a small amount, so higher IPM means faster driving. At 4,000 IPM you finish a 200-fastener deck about 30% faster than at 2,500 IPM. On small jobs the difference is negligible. Pro-grade impact drivers run 3,500 to 4,500 IPM. Entry-level tools sit around 2,500 to 3,000 IPM.
Why It Matters
IPM compounds on volume work. A full deck, a roof, or a subfloor with 200+ fasteners shows the gap clearly. Three cabinet hinges won't. People fixate on torque specs and skip IPM, but on repetitive fastening it directly controls how long you're working.