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Choosing the right speed on a cordless drill driver?

Choosing the right speed on a
cordless drill driver

Shop for Cordless Drill Drivers


Slower speeds are better for…

Large gold screw with a 10mm diameter and a 63mm length

Driving larger screws

Larger screws require more torque and so they should be driven at slower speeds.

Sheet of silver metal and a piece of hardwood

Drilling or driving into tough materials

Drilling or driving into tough materials (e.g. metal or hardwood) requires more torque, and should be done at slower speeds.

Very hot cordless drill driver drilling a piece of wood Please note: When drilling or driving at slower speeds, the motor is delivering a higher level of torque and can become very hot.

To ensure the motor does not overheat, remove the cordless drill driver from the work surface and run it at a high speed for a few seconds. This will allow the motor to take in air to cool itself down.

Faster speeds are better for…

Piece of soft wood and plasterboard

Driving smaller screws or drilling into soft materials

Driving smaller screws or drilling into soft materials (e.g. softwoods or drywall) requires less torque so it can be done at a higher speed.

Drilling a piece of plastic at a high speed with a cordless drill driver Please note: Drilling and screwdriving at high speeds can cause the metal bit and screw to heat up.

If you are working with plastic at high speed, the screwdriver or drill bit can overheat and melt the plastic. To prevent this, work at a slower speed and check the material frequently.

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