Which is better for driving screws?

The impact driver. Its 1,800 in-lbs and 3,800 IPM outdrive the drill's 850 in-lb, and the quick-insert collet swaps bits fast. The drill is the better choice for pilot holes and mixed drilling and driving.

Which is better for drilling holes?

The drill. Its 1/2-in keyless chuck holds twist bits and hole saws, and 2,000 RPM with two mechanical speeds is built for boring. The impact driver only takes 1/4-in hex shank bits.

Is the impact driver worth $30 more?

Only if you drive fasteners. At $95.00 at eBay versus $64.99 at A-OK Pawn and Jewelry as of November 4, 2026, the drill is cheaper and more versatile for general work. The impact driver earns its price on torque and compact size.

Do they use the same battery?

Yes. Both are Kobalt 24V tools with a 2 Ah lithium-ion battery, so packs and chargers interchange across the platform.

Both are brushless. The drill has more reported reliability complaints, including chuck jaw failures and motors quitting inside the warranty period. The impact driver's simpler hex collet has fewer wear parts.

Can the drill mix resin?

Yes. Reviewers praise it for mixing resin, and 850 in-lb at low gear handles thick material. The impact driver's hammering action makes it a poor mixer.

Kobalt 24V Max Brushless Cordless Impact Driver Kit vs Kobalt 24-Volt Max Lithium Ion 1/2-in Cordless Brushless Drill with Battery and Soft Case

These are different tools, not two versions of one. The drill (B) bores holes and drives screws with a 1/2-in chuck; the impact driver (A) drives fasteners with 1/4-in hex bits and high torque. Buy the drill if you need to drill holes or mix materials; buy the impact driver if you mostly drive screws and lag bolts. On price, the drill is $64.99 at A-OK Pawn and Jewelry as of November 4, 2026, and the impact driver is $95.00 at eBay as of November 4, 2026.

Today the Kobalt 24-Volt Max Lithium Ion 1/2-in Cordless Brushless Drill with Battery and Soft Case costs $30.01 less at its best price.

Ask our shopping agent