A comprehensive test of cordless screwdrivers highlights the importance of control, usability, and extras over mere voltage, with the Einhell TP-CD 18/70 Li-i BL emerging as the top performer.
Cordless screwdrivers remain one of the most useful tools for home and trade work alike, and stern’s comparison shows why the category is so broad. The magazine tested five models in practice and found major differences in torque, runtime, weight and overall usability. For readers who need a tool for furniture assembly, repairs, renovation or occasional drilling, the key lesson is that voltage alone does not determine performance; balance, trigger control and the supplied accessories matter just as much.
According to stern, the Einhell TP-CD 18/70 Li-i BL narrowly beat the Makita DHP484RTJ to top the test. Both delivered strong performance, solid build quality and useful extras, but the Einhell won on finer control through the trigger, which made it easier to handle delicate work as well as heavier screwdriving. It also comes with a side handle and belt clip, and stern says the bundle with battery and charger costs about €125, which makes it notably cheaper than many rivals. The Makita stayed close behind thanks to its robust metal chuck, two batteries and strong all-round specification, though stern noted that its charger is noisy and the tool is more expensive.
Stern also singled out the Dewalt DCD701D2-QW as the most convincing lighter model. Although it uses a 12-volt system, the magazine found that it handled demanding screwdriving better than its size suggests and still managed drilling tasks in wood, metal and even concrete, albeit more slowly than the stronger 18-volt tools. Its low weight makes it comfortable to use for longer periods, but stern said the balance is less refined than on the top two models and the battery release requires more effort. For smaller household work, stern’s value pick was the Bosch Ixo 8, a compact 3.6-volt screwdriver that is easy to handle, charges by USB-C and works well for simple domestic jobs, though it is not meant for serious drilling.
At the bottom of the comparison, stern placed the Fahefana BH0221S, a low-cost model that offers plenty of accessories and a second battery but falls short on build quality and drilling performance. The magazine said it can cope with simple screwdriving tasks, yet struggles with longer screws and performs poorly when drilling into harder materials. Stern’s broader buying advice is straightforward: for occasional home use, a compact 10.8- or 12-volt screwdriver is usually sufficient; for tougher materials and larger screws, 14.4- or 18-volt models with at least around 30 to 50 Nm of torque are more suitable. A second battery, a charger and a good range of bits are also worth having, while heavier tools should be chosen carefully if longer sessions are expected.
Disclaimer: This content is intended for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to exercise their own judgement, conduct due diligence, or consult a qualified expert before acting on any information provided.
