Choose the right drill for the job

Hammer drill or drill driver? Choose the one that’s best for you.

A good cordless drill is probably the most useful power tool a DIY enthusiast or homeowner can buy, which is why we recommend investing in a good quality mid-range drill that offers the functions you need at a good value. This is where the Einhell TE-CD 18/40 hammer drill and the18/45 drill driver enter the picture.

The two models have a number of similarities: they both have a lightweight design and a comfortable rubber handle to reduce user fatigue. There is a gear adjustment for slow or fast speed, with high or medium torque respectively which the user can select, depending on the job.

Both drills can be used as electric screwdrivers with a clutch adjustment to prevent stripped screws and a forward/reverse selector for quick direction changes. The speed can be controlled by the trigger and there is an LED light at the base for working in low light. The maximum drill bit size of both is 13 mm. Both products are on the same Einhell Power X Change Platform, which means that the batteries are interchangeable with any of the over 250 products in the Einhell range.

So what are the differences? Let’s start with the 18/40: it has a hammer function, so when you switch the dial from drill to hammer mode, instead of the chuck just rotating sideways, it hammers the bit forwards and backwards. This makes it far more effective at drilling into masonry. The 18/40 Impact drill driver is supplied with a battery and charger, as well as a carry case with an additional storage compartment and a 69-piece accessory kit.

The 18/45 model lacks a hammer function, making it a drill driver rather than a hammer drill. It excels at drilling into wood or steel, as well as operating as a screwdriver. Additionally, the chuck can easily be swapped for a second attachment, enabling you to use the tool as a nut setter or reduce its size for improved manoeuvrability in tight spaces. The included 90° attachment allows for working in tight corners, although it is not intended for drilling.

This tool is supplied in a durable carry case with a comprehensive set of wood bits, nut setters, Phillips, torque, and Pozi bits. It features an 18V 2.0 Ah lithium-ion battery and a PowerX 3Amp charger that takes approximately 40 minutes to fully charge.

For those aspiring DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists seeking a comprehensive cordless solution from a single brand, Einhell’s battery-operated power tools may be the ideal answer. Available exclusively online through builders.co.za, these high-quality products offer a range of features and benefits that are sure to impress.