DeWalt Atomic 20V MAX Impact Wrench vs Kobalt 24V Brushless 3/8-in Impact Wrench

The DeWalt Atomic is the stronger tool: 450 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, a 1/2-inch hog ring anvil and four speed settings, and owners say it pulls lug nuts and axle nuts that air guns struggle with. The Kobalt is a lighter-duty 3/8-inch wrench with 180 ft-lbs, better suited to engine bay and interior fasteners than wheel work. Buy the DeWalt for tires, suspension and heavy bolts; buy the Kobalt for small fasteners in tight spots if you already own Kobalt 24V batteries.

• Choose the DeWalt Atomic if you need real breakaway torque for lug nuts, axle nuts and suspension bolts, and want a 1/2-inch drive with four speed modes.
• Choose the Kobalt if your work is 3/8-inch fasteners on engines, brackets and trim, and you already run Kobalt 24V batteries.