YOUR JOB, A COMPLETE KIT
Count the whole setup before you compare prices.
What is the difference?
A drill driver is the usual starting point for making holes and driving screws. An impact driver adds short bursts of turning force as a fastener resists.
It is useful for repeated fastening, such as building timber garden furniture. They can work well together, but you do not need to buy both for every household repair.
Choose around the next job
Putting together a flat pack or fitting cabinet handles? Start with a drill driver and the right bits. Planning lots of fastening as part of a deck project? An impact driver may be a useful companion.
Make a short list of the holes and fasteners involved before choosing a twin kit. A bundle saves nothing if half of it stays in the case.
Two names that cause confusion
An impact driver is not the same as a hammer drill. Hammer drilling is a separate function used by suitable tools for certain masonry jobs.
Likewise, a drill's chuck and an impact driver's bit holder take different accessories. Check the tool's intended use and fitting before assuming the bits from your old drill will work.
What else will you need?
For a two-tool setup, list suitable drill bits, impact-rated driving bits where required, clamps and protective eyewear. Check the battery and charger model numbers, not just the brand colour.
Think about whether one battery will cover how you work or whether swapping between tools will be frustrating. A second battery is a convenience purchase, not a reason to ignore essential protection.
Before you get started
Support the work securely so it cannot move as the bit turns. Wear eye protection and use hearing protection appropriate to the tool and task, especially for noisy fastening work.
Disconnect power before changing accessories. Keep hands clear of rotating bits and check walls for services before drilling.
Follow the instructions for the exact tool and fastener.
Do you need the twin kit?
Compare three options: a drill kit, a twin kit and a drill now with another tool later. Include the accessories you actually need in each total.
If most jobs are small repairs, spend the difference on suitable bits and workholding first. If repeated fastening is a regular part of your projects, the second tool has a clearer purpose.
Sources and scope
Want to check a detail? These are the references used for this guide.
- Bunnings Australia: drill driver and impact driver differences — Basic tool functions. Retailer source; no affiliation or product endorsement implied. Checked 2026-10-26.
- Bosch: cordless drills and combi drills — Tool-category distinctions only; UK models/prices are not Australian offers. Checked 2026-10-26.
- SafeWork SA: hand and power tools — General safe tool selection, handling and precautions; check the exact tool manual. Checked 2026-10-26.
Read about our disclosure and methodology.
Continue your comparison
- Choose a cordless drill around your actual jobs
- Compare the complete tool kit cost
- Choosing a circular saw: compare the cuts, then the kit
- Choosing a random orbit sander for your project
- Choosing a woodworking router without buying the wrong accessories
- Compare cordless battery platforms before committing
- Plan workshop equipment purchases before filling the floor