This page is all about the best cordless tools, accessories, and supplies you can buy for your work, DIY project, or home use.
The main goal is to help you pick the right product quickly and avoid getting useless products.
Remember that I have spent years working in this field and have tried different products to build things quickly, efficiently, and in the best possible way. Cordless tools are magical, and they make our lives so easy.
As a whole, I have spent hundreds of hours researching and testing for the search for the best tools. This makes me qualified to help you skip the worthless products and directly jump to the good stuff related to cordless drills, saws, impact drivers, accessories, supplies, etc., that you can actually use.
In each category, we have selected the best tools for a specific purpose. Click on the category below and select the right tool as per your needs.
If you did not find what you are looking for here, check out our tools guide for in-depth recommendations. While this page is just the highlights, the tools guide provides pages of in-depth research and recommendations for just about any job imaginable.
List of Power Tools – Cordless and Corded
Here is the complete list of power tools with names and details of each of them. The list summaries all types of power tools widely used. This list will help you identify the type of power tools as well.
Power tools are normally driven by an electric motor and will require electricity to operate. Today, due to the advanced battery technology, most of these tools are available in cordless versions.
1. Power Drill
As the name implies, these are drilling machines with or without cords. They are widely used because they are portable and are good for home maintenance, and are a handy tool at workshops.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless (battery), Corded |
| Category | Professional High Quality, DIY Mid Range, Beginner Compact |
| Purpose | To drill holes in a wide variety of materials using a wide variety of drill bits. |
| Consumables | Drill bits are attached to the chuck of the drill to make holes |
| Power/Torque | Ranges from 4 to 35 Nm |
| Invented | Electric model in 1889, Australia |
| Main Components | Chuck: 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, and 1/2 inch size Batteries: Li-ion (ranging from 6V-20V mostly) Motors: Brushed or Brushless Handle: Plastic Handle to grab the drill Trigger: Gives speed and power Rocker switch: Switches chuck from clockwise to anti-clockwise Gear Switch: Controls speed and torque |
| Price Range | $29-$149 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for DIY and professional use. A must-have tool for homeowners. |
2. Impact Driver
As the name infers, this tool produces high torque in quick impacts. These ‘bursts’ fall fifty times per second. They are powerful, portable, user-friendly, lighter, and compact. Great for projects involving endless screwing.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless (battery), Corded |
| Category | Expert, Professional, Apprentice, DIY |
| Purpose | To drive screws or fasteners with more power and least operation |
| Consumables | 1/4 inch hexagonal driver bits |
| Power/Torque | 1500 to 1800 in-lbs |
| Invented | Electric version 1968, United States |
| Main Components | Chuck: 1/4 inch, hexagonal, quick release LED: several LED lights around the chuck Forward and reverse switch: to insert screw and remove the screw Batteries: rechargeable ni-ca, ni-metal hydride, and li-ion Motors: Brushed or Brushless Handle: Plastic Handle or a rubber grip to hold the machine Trigger: Gives speed and power Gear Switch: Controls speed and torque |
| Price Range | $63-$299 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for woodwork like deck making or plywood floor. A must-have tool for professionals who need to drive long screws. |
3. Hammer drill
This drill machine bores holes with an additional hammer function to help drive the bit further into the job with the help of a two tooth-disc system. The hammer hits are fast, intense, vibratory, and loud. Awesome for masonry and concrete work, fit for construction sites.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless (battery), Corded (more powerful) |
| Category | Expert, Professional |
| Purpose | To drill holes with more power coming from hammering thrusts |
| Consumables | 1/2 inch, 5/8 inch, etc. masonry bits |
| Power/Torque | Up to 1200 inch-lbs of torque |
| Invented | Electric Model by Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation, 1935 |
| Main Components | Chuck: Ranges from 1/16″ to 1/2″ (keyed or keyless) Depth Guage: to measure the depth of drilling Direction switch: to reverse the direction from clockwise to anticlockwise Side handle: auxiliary handle for better hold on the machine Mode selector: to select the drill alone or with additional hammer action Power cord: most versions are corded Motors: Brushed or Brushless Handle: Plastic Handle or a rubber grip to hold the machine Trigger: Gives speed and power Gear Switch: Controls speed and torque |
| Price Range | $39-$299 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for masonry work or concrete flooring. A must-have tool for professionals at construction sites. |
4. Rotary Hammer
A heavy-duty power tool is used for drilling and chiseling into masonry, ceramic, or concrete, with a piston mechanism that gives the hammering force. Suitable for drilling bigger holes. The hammering force is super fast and super intense with anti-vibrational technologies in many models.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless (battery), Corded |
| Category | Expert, Professional |
| Purpose | Drilling and chipping with the higher force coming from hammering blows |
| Consumables | Bits include: drillers, spade, chisel, cutter, core bit, etc. 1.5m long bits available (bores 1″ to 6″ diameter) |
| Power/Torque | 1.5 ft-lbs to 10 ft-lbs or more, (18V to 115V or more) |
| Invented | 1930, John Adolphus Zublin (hydraulic mechanism for hammering action) |
| Main Components | Chuck: use slotted drives; SDS plus, max, and spline with bit capacity of up to 2″. Shaft Size: 10mm to 18mm Depth Guage: to measure the depth of drilling Reverse switch: to change forward and reverse directions Side Handle: auxiliary handle for better hold on the machine Mode switch: 3 modes (chipping, drilling, and drilling with hammering) Power Source: cord or battery: 18V to 250V with 10A current Motors: 400W-1500W power (1.8 to 12 kg weight) Lock-on button: to set a specific speed Handle: pistol grip handle or D-shaped Trigger Switch: Gives speed and power Gearbox: Controls speed and torque Housing: to protect internal components |
| Price Range | $170-$499 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for masonry work, tiles, or concrete flooring. A must-have tool for constructors. |
5. Impact Wrench
A powerful tool that delivers very high rotational torque for loosening or tightening nuts, bolts, and fasteners. This is special because it eliminates physical output by power provided by an electric motor or compressed air. A must-have for mechanics who work on automobiles, heavy equipment, machine tools, construction projects, etc.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless (battery), Corded, compressed air (pneumatic) |
| Category | Professional |
| Purpose | To loosen or tighten stubborn lugs, bolts, and fasteners. |
| Consumables | Wrench sockets with 1/4′” to 1″ size. (mostly used is 1/2″ size ) |
| Power/Torque | 500 to 2000 ft-lbs of torque |
| Invented | Chicago, 1939 (electric and pneumatic models) |
| Main Components | Chuck: 1/4″ sockets compatible LED lights: Lights around the chuck Battery: one or two Li-ion batteries in a cordless version Power Source: Rechargeable battery, power cord, compressed air Lock-On Button: to set a specific speed Handle: Grip handle Motor: 12V, 18V, or 24V DC-powered Trigger Switch: Gives speed and power Directional Valve: to decide clockwise or anticlockwise direction (loosening and tightening) Rotary Cylinder, Wheel, and Blades: change compressed air into kinetic energy Hammer Cage, Hammer Dog, Hammer Pin, and Anvil: The torques producing system |
| Price Range | $138-$1000 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for automobile, heavy machines, and equipment assembly. A must-have tool for mechanics. |
6. Electric Screwdriver
This is a screwdriver best known for its neat, compact size and slower speed, providing better precision than a drill driver. Electric screwdrivers are a handy tool for light-duty jobs.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless (battery) and corded |
| Category | Beginner, Amateur, Pro |
| Purpose | To drive or turn screws in a DIY project, medical devices, electronic firms, or home maintenance. |
| Consumables | Phillips, Hex, Torx, and Square-Recess type of screwdriver configurations with 1″ to 12″ length and 6 different sizes. |
| Power/Torque | 3 to 5 Nm of torque. |
| Invented | By Black & Decker, 1923 |
| Main Components | Bit Collar: to hold the bits Torque Adjustment Nut: to pre-set the amount of torque that shall be applied on the screws. Magnetized holder: to carry 2 bits at a time on the lateral sides of the 6″ device. LED lights: Lights around the bit collar Battery: Li-ion battery in a cordless version Power Source: Rechargeable battery, power cable Handle: grip handle Motor: up to 4 Volts, Brushed or brushless Trigger Switch: Gives speed and power Directional Valve: to decide the clockwise or anticlockwise direction |
| Price Range | $14-$30 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for small component electric devices coupling, DIY, medical equipment. A must-have tool for electronic firms. |
7. Rotary Tool
A rotary power tool is a handy, speedy, portable, lightweight, and multifunctional power tool with a rotatory head. The rotary tip accepts various bits, allowing different functions to be performed by this simple and compact device.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless (battery) and corded |
| Category | Beginner, DIY, Pro |
| Purpose | Used for sanding, buffing, and polishing of surfaces. Used for carving in crafting. Also used for cutting, sharpening, and other home maintenance plans. |
| Consumables | Cutting bits and wheels, grinding bits, sanding drums and wheels, brush and polishing bits (all bits come along with the tool). |
| Speed/power | Up to 30,000 rpm speed. 1.8 to 5-amps of power |
| Invented | Albert J. Dremel, Austria, 1932 |
| Main Components | collet: 3/32, 1/4 or 1/8–inch, etc LED lights: Lights around the collet Battery: Li-ion battery in a cordless version (3.7V to 12V) Power Source: Rechargeable battery, power cable Handle: grip handle Motor: up to 160-watt power, AC or DC; Brushed or brushless Trigger Switch: Gives speed and power |
| weight and length | Up to 1.3 lbs and 6 inches |
| Price Range | $22-$110 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for small component electric devices coupling, DIY, medical equipment. A must-have tool for electronic firms. |
8. Jigsaw
This is a handheld power tool primarily meant for cutting in various shapes and angles. A great tool for DIY workers, carpenters, etc. It’s portable, compact, safe, and makes cutting efficiently simple. The key to excellent results with a jigsaw is to match a specific blade to the type of material you’ll cut.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless (battery) and corded |
| Category | Beginner, DIY, small workshop |
| Purpose | Used for cutting wood, plastic, tile, steel or metal, etc. Ideal for cutting complex shapes and curves in wood. Not suitable for fast speed cutting of long and straight cuts (opt for circular saw) |
| Consumables | Sharp blades of 2 to 3-1/2 in. long and either 1/4 in. wide. |
| Speed/power | 500 and 3500 spm, 400-900 watts |
| Invented | Albert Kaufmann, Switzerland, 1960 |
| Main Components | Blade: most have upward pointed teeth for upstroke cut—also, grinding blades. Blade clamps: U and T clamps secure the blade Blade guard: Prevents accidents and deflects sawdust Blade roller guide: supports the blade Dust Collector Footplate: Maintains the angle of the cut Handle: D-shaped handle with barrel grip Lock-on button: Keeps the speed constant Laser guide: Guides the blade Dust Blower: Prevents overheating of the motor Trigger: This is the on-off switch, controls the speed of the blade. Action Switch: For forwarding and backward oscillation of the blade. Power Cord: For electrical power in corded versions. Shoe Adjustment Lever: Adjusts the jigsaw shoe to bevel or linear. Battery: Li-ion battery (up to 18V) Speed Control Dial: Control the maximum cutting speed of your jigsaw |
| weight and length | 1.5kg to 3kg, stroke length: 18mm to 26mm |
| Price Range | $34-$249 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for DIY. A great tool for woodworkers. |
9. Reciprocating Saw
A reciprocating saw is a demolition tool. This tool uses back-and-forth cutting strokes of the blade to cut through different materials. This tool saves a lot of time and limits frustration.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless (battery) and corded |
| Category | Amateur, Professional, Expert |
| Purpose | Cuts wood and metallic surfaces, tree pruning, demolition and construction, framing and plumbing |
| Consumables | Sharp blades up to 6 inches long |
| Speed/power | 2,600 to 3,300 spm, up to 1100 watts |
| Invented | By Milwaukee tool company, 1951 |
| Main Components | Blade: 2 to 12 inches long for different material Blade clamps/collet: To secure the blade Pressure plate: in pneumatic models Blade guard: Prevents accidents and deflects sawdust Blade roller guide: supports the blade Dust Collector: collects the dust Footplate: Maintains the angle of the cut Handle: D-shaped handle with barrel grip Lock-on button: Keeps the speed constant Trigger: This is the on-off switch, controls the speed of the blade. Action Switch: moves the blade in an upwards and downwards motion Power Cord: For electrical power in corded versions. Vent: prevents overheating of the motor. Battery: Li-ion battery (up to 18V) Speed Control Dial: Controls the maximum cutting speed of the saw |
| weight and length | 8.3 pounds, 19-1/8 inches long |
| Price Range | $49-$220 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for DIY. A great tool for constructors and demolishers. |
10. Circular Saw
It is a rotary cutting power tool with a circular form of toothed disc blades. Can cut through wood, plastic, metal, masonry, etc. Hand-held and mounted versions are available. Perfect for making straight cuts.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless and corded |
| Category | Professional, DIY enthusiasts |
| Purpose | Cuts through wood, metal, plastic, etc. |
| Consumables | Sharp blades 7-1/4 in (crosscut saw, ripping saw blades, carbide tipped, etc.) |
| Speed/power | 4000-7000 rpm, up to 1200 watts |
| Invented | By Gervinus, 1780 |
| Main Components | Battery: Li-ion, 18-20V Bavel adjustment: adjusts the bevel angle Motor: brushed or brushless Plate: makes the saw sit onto the cutting surface Blade Cover: protects from accidental contact Bolt clamp: secures the blade into the tool Cord: power cable for electrical supply Handle: grip handle Trigger: on and off switch Brakes: to stop the spinning blade |
| weight and length | 9.85 lbs, 8-10 inches |
| Types | Sidewinder, Hypoid, Worm drive |
| Price Range | $39-$400 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for carpenters, contractors, DIY. |
11. Miter Saw
This is a saw popular for its precision in cutting. The crosscut, miter, and beveled cuts are the specialty of this power tool. The blade is dropped down over the surface that has to be cut. Somewhat portable. Suitable for projects that demand accurate and neat slices.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless and corded (up to 15-amp motors) |
| Category | Professional, DIY enthusiasts |
| Purpose | Makes 90-degree crosscuts, angled and beveled cuts on wood, etc. |
| Consumables | Sharp blades 8″, 10″and 12″ blade widths |
| Speed/power | up to 4500 RPM, 840-2100W |
| Invented | By Ed Niehaus, 1964 |
| Main Components | Blade: Drops down on the workpiece. Guard: Covers the blade and provide protection from injury Table: Acts as a base for the miter saw and work area Fence: ninety degrees to the saw, keeps the workpiece stable Vise: vise grip on the side of the miter saw helps in the stabilization of the workpiece Scale: Indicates the angle at which cutting is done Battery: Li-ion, 18-20V Motor: brushed or brushless Bolt clamp: secures the blade into the tool Cord: power cable for electrical supply Handle: D shaped handle over the top of the saw Trigger: on and off switch Brakes: to stop the spinning blade |
| weight and length | 28 lbs, 8-10 inches |
| Types | Standard and compound |
| Price Range | $129-$749 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for carpenters, contractors, home improvement projects |
12. Band Saw
As the name implies, a saw with a steel belt/band running over pulleys moves a vertical, long, and adjustable down stroked toothed blade to cut through different materials, especially wood. Not portable, as it is fixed on a table.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | corded mostly (up to 11/5.5 amp at 115/230 volts) |
| Category | Professional, Experts |
| Purpose | Use to cut different shapes and to resaw or rip lumber into thinner slabs. |
| Consumables | Sharp blades with 2 to 14 teeth per inch. Which are regular, hook, and skip. Blade length can be up to 105.” |
| Speed/power | 1000 FPM, 746 watts or more |
| Invented | By William Newberry, 1808 |
| Main Components | Frame: comprises the entire solid exterior, made of steel, aluminum, or plastic Base: located at the bottom of the frame, works as a foundation or support. Motor: located near the base, offers single or dual speed operation Power switch: Provides electricity Dust port: located near the base, funnels away the sawdust Bandsaw table: The cutting platform, with 12′ by 14″ size, also has a miter gauge for angled cuts. Tension knob: helps the blade to cut through softer or denser material without deflecting off the surface. Wheels: spins to operate the band saw blades Bandsaw tires: gripping for blade and provide a cushioning layer to prevent unnecessary wear on the blade and wheels Other parts are the Rapid tension lever, Table tilt lever, Tracking knob, Height adjustment knob |
| weight and length | up to 250 lbs |
| Types | Metal, Meat, Wood, Benchtop, Horizontal, Vertical, Portable, etc |
| Price Range | $112-$139 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for residential workshops and light industry |
13. Table Saw
As the name implies, this saw is installed under a table. A circular blade that is fixed in an arbor project out over the top of the table. The material that has to be cut is slid over the table and consequently over the blade. This is mostly a nonportable power tool but awesome for a workshop.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | corded (5 to 12amp 120V to 240V power outlet) rarely portable |
| Category | DIY enthusiasts, Professional, Experts |
| Purpose | helps to make accurate and precise cuts on wood. They make three types of cuts: crosscut, ripping cut, and dado cut. |
| Consumables | Sharp blades that are a flat top grind, alternate top bevel, combination, and triple-chip grind. Usually 10” or 12” in diameter |
| Speed/power | 3,000 to 4,000 RMP, 1725 watts |
| Invented | By Samuel Miller, 1777 |
| Main Components | Tabletop: This is the work area. The workpiece lies over it and is fed to the blade On/off switch: turns on or off the motor by controlling the power supply Blade: cuts the workpiece throat plate: seals the arbor and blade arbor: holds the blade and decides the blade size Elevation and tilts wheels: adjust the height and angle of the blade Blade guard: made of plastic or steel, protection is the goal riving knife: helps prevent the workpiece from kicking back and injury Dust collector: sucks out the workpiece dust through a vacuum hose Cabinet: refers to a specific type of housing Other accessories: Rip fence, Fence lock, Miter gauge, Splitter, Anti-Kickback pawls, Magnetic switch, Table extensions, push stick, crosscut sled, etc |
| weight and length | 69 to 245 lbs |
| Types | compact, benchtop, Jobsite, contractor, hybrid, cabinet, and sliding |
| Price Range | $129-$2650 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for woodworkers, a great power tool for workshops |
14. Chain Saw
As the name indicates, the chainsaw has a circular chain that rotates along a linear bar. This chain has teeth responsible for cutting through wood. It is specially designed to be portable, lightweight, beginners friendly, and a fast and powerful tool.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | The petrol/gasoline engine, battery, or power cord |
| Category | Home maintainers, Professionals |
| Purpose | Used in tree felling, limbing, bucking, pruning, cutting firebreaks in wildland fire suppression, and firewood harvesting. |
| Consumables | Full chisel, semi-chisel, low-profile, chipper, skip, semi skip, gauge, etc. kind of chains, 14-18 inches size |
| Speed/power | up to 3000rpm, 1200W |
| Invented | By Bernhard Heine, 1830 |
| Main Components | Handle: anti-vibration handle to avoid strain on the arm of the user Handguard: helps protect from slipping or hitting the chain chain brake: initiatives clutch function which activates or stops the chain Muffler: reduce the noise Spark arrestor: prevents injury and fire hazards Chain catcher: this is a small metal hook intended to stop a broken chain Throttle: sends fuel to runs the engine Bar: the central metal piece that the chain rotates around Chain: Wraps around the bar, has the teeth that do cutting Fuel tank: gas/oil fuel mixture storage with a 50:1 Lubricant tank: to lubricate and avoid friction between bar and chain Pull cord: a rope with a plastic handle to turn the engine on High/low adjustment screws: controls the speed of the chain Lean adjustment screw: controls amount of air/fuel mixture to the carburetor On/Off switch and choke: is a lever that turns on or off the chainsaw Engine: traditional chainsaws have a gas-powered engine. Battery and electricity-powered are following up |
| weight and length | up to 15 lbs, |
| Types | Manual / Pocket, Battery-powered, Corded-electric, Gas-powered, Pneumatic |
| Price Range | $59-$299 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for home maintainers, gardeners, etc. |
15. Biscuit Joiner
This is an interesting power tool that makes semi-oval slots on the lateral side of two wood panels. A wooden biscuit is slid into the emptied slot, and some glue is poured into joining the two pieces of the wood.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Corded, cordless (up to 18V) |
| Category | DIY, Professionals |
| Purpose | Used to join two plates of plywood, medium-density fiberboard, or particleboard together |
| Consumables | small 2-4 inches circular saw blade, wooden oval-shaped biscuits 1/2″ to 15/16″ |
| Speed/power | up to 10,000rpm, 800W |
| Invented | By Hermann Steiner, Switzerland, 1956 |
| Main Components | Depth adjustment knob: It is spring-loaded, makes proper settings for biscuit sizes adjustable fence: used to guide and balance the biscuit joiner, Angle setting scale: adjusts the fence at angles from 0° to 135° locking knob: loosens or tightens the adjustable fence Dust bag: wood dust is collected into a dust bag through a tunnel Dual grip handle: gives a choice of two grip areas for the user Switch trigger: ON/OFF switch on the underside of the dual grip handle. Height setting scale: shows the height of the fence from the center of the blade. Height adjustment knob: moves the fence up or down to adjust the height of the fence from the center of the blade Line of the cut indicator: helps in more accurate cuts Blade: mostly 8-tooth blade for slot cutting Non-skid surface: helps prevent misalignment caused by skidding during the use. Biscuits: Biscuits swell rapidly upon contact with water-based woodworking glues |
| weight and length | mostly 5-6 lbs |
| Types | standard and compound |
| Price Range | $60-$236 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for DIYers, professional woodworkers, etc. |
16. Angle Grinder
As the name indicates, this handheld power tool works primarily as a grinder or polisher. An angle grinder is also known as a disc or side grinder. It is a versatile power tool, used multipurpose. It is portable, lightweight, compact, and a must-have tool at construction sites or manufacturing units. It has different kinds of blades at the tip (one at a time), which are responsible for the whole functioning of the tool.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Corded (13amps) , cordless |
| Category | DIY, Professionals, Experts |
| Purpose | Used for grinding the edges, polishing surfaces, cutting through different materials, rust removal, etc |
| Consumables | Grinding disc, cut-off disc, flap disc, wire wheels, diamond cut discs, polishing pads, etc |
| Speed/power | 2000 to 7300 RPM, 750W or more |
| Invented | By Ackermann + Schmitt, 1954 |
| Main Components | Power switch: this is a button or trigger to activate the angle grinder Lock button: renders the tool running without continuously having to hold the power lever or trigger. Speed control dial: to control the disc rotation speed Main handle: attached to the head of the grinder, has all buttons, and to be held by the dominant hand side handle: for better grip and cutting accuracy Body: also referred to as the head, houses the motor and other important parts Motor: generates power or movement. Brushed or brushless Brakes: to stop the spinning blades in almost 3 sec Spindle: this is the rotating axis of the motor, which moves the blades Blade guard: semi-circular attachment around the blade to prevent injury Attachments: blades and discs that are mounted on the angle grinder are; cutting discs, sanding discs, grinding discs, wire brushes, and flap discs Battery: 18 to 20 volts, Li-ion battery |
| weight and length | 3.75 lbs approximately, up to 7 inches |
| Types | cordless, corded, pneumatic, variable speed, straight angle grinders |
| Price Range | $29-$274 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for DIYers, constructors, professionals, industrial manufacturing, etc. |
17. Bench Grinder
As the name hints, this power tool is positioned over a benchtop. It has two adjacent wheels that have gritty surfaces. The wheels rotate at high speed. And shapes or grinds the surfaces that come in contact with it. The tool has another version that is called a pedestal grinder. This is a heavy appliance and non-portable but a must-have for any good workshop.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Corded mostly |
| Category | Professionals, Experts |
| Purpose | Used to shape, sharpen, buff, polish, or clean just about any metal object |
| Consumables | 6 to 8 inch coarse or fine grinding wheels |
| Speed/power | about 3,450 rpm, 500 watts when in use |
| Invented | By Jr John E Bernard |
| Main Components | Grinding wheels: made of ceramic alumina, aluminum oxide, and silicon carbide. Motor: AC single-phase motor, DC in battery-powered (brushed or brushless) Wheel Guard: protects from the sparks generated by friction and heat Tool rest: A platform that supports the tools that have to be adjusted to sharpen them Power switch: this is the on/off button to activate or stop the bench grinder |
| weight and length | around 39.5 lbs, 16 inches |
| Types | Automotive, Woodworking, Standard Variable Speed, Portable |
| Price Range | $64-$619 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for constructors, professionals, industrial manufacturing, etc. |
18. Belt Sander
As the name suggests, this is a sanding machine. It has two drums/pulleys that are rotated by a motor. A loop of sanding paper is mounted around these drums. Different materials, especially wooden edges, etc., are smoothened using this power tool. Has a variety of sizes ranging from handheld to tabletops. It makes finishing work easier.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Corded mostly, cordless |
| Category | DIY, Professional |
| Purpose | Used to trim, sand, round, shape, or level wooden materials |
| Consumables | sanding strip, sanding disc, and belt |
| Speed/power | 3000 surface fpm |
| Invented | By Art Emmons, 1926 |
| Main Components | Sanding belt tracking adjustment knob Locking lever Sanding belt tension lever Sanding belt Front table End guard/Dust hood Motor Assembly On/Off switch Front table height adjustment knob Front table height lock knobs Base Auxiliary table height adjustment Locking lever Auxiliary table |
| weight and length | around 15.8 lbs, up to 3 by 24 inches |
| Types | hand powered, tube, belt file, floor, stationary belt sanders |
| Price Range | $51-$549 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for woodworkers |
19. Random Orbital Sander
This is a handheld tool with a round sanding disc and round sanding paper. It smoothens the surface of wood or other materials in a random orbital motion. The tool vibrates about to cover the maximum area. This is unique because it leaves no cross-grain scratches on the surface, and you can proceed with the sanding in any direction.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Corded and cordless |
| Category | DIY, Professional |
| Purpose | Used for sanding wood, plastic, and metal surfaces. Also, it smoothens wall coating or strips off old paint. |
| Consumables | round sanding paper (80 to 220 grit size) |
| Speed/power | up to 10,000 times per minute |
| Invented | By Rupes Tools, 1968 |
| Main Components | Motor: provides power for sanding Power switch: the on and off button. Palm grip: provides a better holding option for longer projects D-handle: extra handle for holding Barrel grip: for better holding of the tool Dust bag: collects wood dust Lip seal: a rubber seal to prevent the motor from wood dust Sanding pad: rotates and oscillates the sanding disc Sanding disc: a circular abrasive paper |
| weight and length | around 5 inches, 2-4 lbs |
| Types | electrical, air-powered, and orbital floor sander |
| Price Range | $172-$299 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for furniture makers, and DIYers |
20. Disc Sander
This is a powerful sanding tool. Comprises a rotating wheel with sandpaper attached to the front. The tool is suitable for workshops and commercial use. Suitable for smoothing ends of the workpiece, straight and miter cuts, and curved edges.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Corded and cordless |
| Category | Professional/commercial use |
| Purpose | Used for sanding wood, plastic, and metal surfaces. |
| Consumables | up to 12 inches round sanding paper |
| Speed/power | 1000 to 1600 rmp |
| Invented | By Art Emmons, 1926 |
| Main Components | Motor: (brushed or brushless) provides power for sanding Power switch: the on and off button Sanding disc: Up to 12 inches sanding disc, with which the object to be sanded comes in contact Disc table: to support the workpiece Miter gauge: to angle the workpiece with respect to the sanding wheel Bevel scale: adjusts the disc table Screws: They are for the adjustments of the table, belt, etc. |
| weight and length | 12 inches, 72 lbs |
| Types | electrical, air-powered |
| Price Range | $286-$760 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for workshop owners, commercial use |
21. Wood Router
As the name implies, it routes or hollows out an area in the wood workpiece. This is the most versatile tool. This tool has a flat base and a changeable rotating bit, which rotates clockwise to carve wood patterns, shape edges, and other multiple functions. Especially useful in cabinet making.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Corded and cordless |
| Category | DIY, Professional |
| Purpose | primarily used for cutting joints, shaping edges, and grooving |
| Consumables | quarter and half-inch bits (straight cut, round-over, etc.) |
| Speed/power | Up to 18000 rmp |
| Invented | By Jet Motor Hand Routers, 1915 |
| Main Components | Motor and housing: vertically mounted, runs on up to 120-240V Speed control: variable speeds to work on different materials and different bits Collet and nut: steel sleeve attached to the motor, secures bits with the nut Base: this is at the bottom, helps the tool to sit over the workpiece. It has a hole in the center for the bit protrusion and functioning Depth stop: helps to set the height of the cutter and set the depth of the cut Dust extraction sprout: extracts the dust of the workpiece. |
| weight and length | 9 to 18 lbs, 1/4 to 1/2-inch shank size |
| Types | fixed base, plunge routers |
| Price Range | $79-$259 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for carpentry (cabinetry), commercial use |
22. Nail Gun
This is a handheld tool that injects nails into wood, steel, and other soft materials. Makes work more efficient, and is also compatible with heavy-duty and high volume applications. A nail gun has coiled or stripped nail magazines, that hold the clipped head or round head nails. This is a great choice for beginners to a professional range of work.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Corded and cordless |
| Category | DIY, Professional |
| Purpose | Deckbuilding, furniture making, cabinetry, roof shingle installment, wood flooring, and other DIY. |
| Consumables | 15-18 gauge nails, (clipped head nails and fully round head nails) |
| Speed/power | can hold two trips of 80 nails each per load, can launch up to 1400 feet/inch |
| Invented | By Morris Pynoos, in 1954 |
| Main Components | Metal exhaust: keeps air away off the face of the user and blows away debris Rubber grip handle: better grip on the tool with anti-vibration benefit Mode selector: 3 modes (contact, sequential, lock) for nailing Aluminum magazine: can take up to 100 nails before reloading Depth adjust: ensures better sinking of the nails into the workpiece Air chamber: for enhancing power in pneumatic/compressed air nail guns Safety contact: provides better grip on the surface and secured nailing action Fire/trigger: pulled to inject nails Battery: in cordless versions, LI-ion battery (20V) compressed air/ butane/propane: another type uses air |
| weight and length | up to 8.5 lbs, 15 to 23 gauge nail guns |
| Types | Framing, flooring, palm, roofing, siding, pin, brad, staple, etc. |
| Price Range | $34-$349 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for construction sites, woodworking, DIY. |
23. Air Compressor
This is a Power Tool that assists many pneumatic tools for their functioning. It is compatible with nail guns, impact wrenches, sanders, hammer drills, etc. This tool has a crankshaft that drives compressed air into the piston, or cylinder and then into the structures of the power tool with which it is attached.
The piston then sustains the function of that particular tool. Has an automatic on-off system to maintain the air pressure. It is a good choice because it transforms your tools from pneumatic to cordless and portable.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Corded and cordless |
| Category | Professional, Expert |
| Purpose | converts power (electrical energy) into potential energy (kinetic energy) which drives the other tools with the pressurized air, tire filling, spray painting, etc. |
| Consumables | oil ranging from 1 gallon (4L) to 80 gallon |
| Speed/power | 1.5 to 6 HP (2H for corded version), Airflow capacity: up to 2.2 Cubic Feet Per Minute |
| Invented | By George Medhurst, 1799 |
| Main Components | Internal structure: piston, connecting rod, crankshaft, cylinder, and valve head Pressure gauge: measures and reflects the pressure of the air in PSI (pounds per inch square) Connection hose: connects your air tool with the air compressor for the flow of pressurized air Motor: uses a three-phase induction motor to convert electrical energy into kinetic energy Inlet filter: filters the air from pollutants and chemical contaminants, filters up to 0.3 microns particles. Crankcase: contains the lubricant (oil) to prevent wear and tear Tank: this acts as the reservoir for the pressurized air Cylinder with piston: uses the phenomenon of displacement to pressurize the air Battery: up to 18V LI-Ion battery for a cordless version |
| weight and length | up to 16 lbs weight in workshop versions |
| Types | Rotary Screw, reciprocating, axial, and centrifugal compressors |
| Price Range | $69-$526 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for industrial work, workshops, DIY, etc. |
24. Moisture Meter
As the name implies, this is a handy tool that measures moisture in concrete, wood, gypsum, plants, etc. The readings are indicated in percentage form along with color range revealing dry and damp conditions. A moisture meter is a helpful tool for construction inspectors, furniture makers, floor installers, etc.
A fine quality moisture meter can be accurate for up to 0.1% of the material’s moisture content by weight. Please opt for a penetrating moisture meter as it gives fewer false-positive readings than a non-invasive moisture meter.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Corded and cordless |
| Category | Expert, professional |
| Purpose | It measures the moisture content of different materials like wood, concrete, gypsum, etc. |
| Consumables | Pins up to 8mm (pin-type moisture meter) |
| Speed/power | Neutron moisture meter works on radiation flux, 6000 miles per second emission speed from the source |
| Invented | In the 1920s |
| Main Components | Pin-type: cap: protects the pins when not in use. Pins: penetrates into the material that has to be examined LCD screen: analog or digital display to show off the moisture readings Button: power, hold (freezes a reading), and mode (compares different readings from different materials) options. Wrist strap: To keep the equipment secure from hitting the ground. Pinless-type: Sensor instead of pins: lies in the backside of the moisture meter, works on the principle of electrical resistance |
| weight and length | 145mmx62mmx27mm (wood/paper moisture meter) |
| Types | Pinned, pin-less, all-in-one |
| Price Range | $17-$635 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for construction inspectors, furniture makers, gardeners. |
25. Shop Vac
This is a vacuum machine used at construction sites, wood-related workshops, and home-based work garages. It has a suction pump that runs with the help of a motor and pulls in wood chunks and concrete particles, metal screws, nails, and dry dust. Has a big canister to hold the dirt and debris. The wheels make the shop vac portable and easy to handle. Can also clean the wet mess.
As the name implies, these are drilling machines with or without cords. They are widely used because they are portable and are good for home maintenance, and are a handy tool at workshops.
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless (battery), Corded |
| Category | Professional High Quality, DIY Mid Range, Beginner Compact |
| Purpose | To drill holes in a wide variety of materials using a wide variety of drill bits. |
| Consumables | Drill bits are attached to the chuck of the drill to make holes |
| Power/Torque | Ranges from 4 to 35 Nm |
| Invented | Electric model in 1889, Australia |
| Main Components | Chuck: 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, and 1/2 inch size Batteries: Li-ion (ranging from 6V-20V mostly) Motors: Brushed or Brushless Handle: Plastic Handle to grab the drill Trigger: Gives speed and power Rocker switch: Switches chuck from clockwise to anti-clockwise Gear Switch: Controls speed and torque |
| Price Range | $29-$149 |
| Relevance | 10/10 for DIY and professional use. A must-have tool for homeowners. |
