• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Legend Handyman

DIY Tools Reviews by Real Handyman

  • Home
  • Category
    • Woodworking Tools
    • Power Tools
    • Pink Tools
    • Worksite Tools
    • Electrical
  • DIY Projects
  • Blog
  • Contact Us
  • Show Search
Hide Search

The 9 Best Drywall Screw Guns Reviews Milwaukee and Makitas

Updated on February 13, 2021 · Leave a Comment

Back in the day, it was labeled a strenuous job when the conversation was about construction work. The use of power tools was considered extraordinarily professional, and very few could afford expert help. The advent of automatic machines changed the whole scene.

Nowadays, you can find many screw guns to choose from as they are widely available and pretty affordable. These drills have contributed to making your work more efficient and reduce work times due to their increased portability. Hanging drywall is a very crucial part of any construction work.

A screw gun is specifically designed to drill screws as they allow you to hit the right amount of depth and pressure. Investing in the best drywall screw gun can save you a great deal of time and money in the long run, be it a professional job or a stay-at-home DIY project.

There is a high demand for such tools in the construction industry. If you are new to this, look no more as we have taken the time to simplify your decision.

Preview
Editors Choice
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Drywall Screw Gun, Tool Only (DCF620B)
Best Buy
Milwaukee 2866-20 M18 FUEL Drywall Screw Gun (Bare Tool Only)
Nice Pick
Makita XSF03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Drywall Screwdriver (Bare Tool Only)
Title
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Drywall Screw Gun, Tool Only (DCF620B)
Milwaukee 2866-20 M18 FUEL Drywall Screw Gun (Bare Tool Only)
Makita XSF03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Drywall Screwdriver (Bare Tool Only)
Review
Price
Check on Amazon
Check on Amazon
Check on Amazon
Editors Choice
Preview
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Drywall Screw Gun, Tool Only (DCF620B)
Title
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Drywall Screw Gun, Tool Only (DCF620B)
Review
Price
Check on Amazon
Best Buy
Preview
Milwaukee 2866-20 M18 FUEL Drywall Screw Gun (Bare Tool Only)
Title
Milwaukee 2866-20 M18 FUEL Drywall Screw Gun (Bare Tool Only)
Review
Price
Check on Amazon
Nice Pick
Preview
Makita XSF03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Drywall Screwdriver (Bare Tool Only)
Title
Makita XSF03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Drywall Screwdriver (Bare Tool Only)
Review
Price
Check on Amazon

Table of Contents

  • Top 9 Best Drywall Screw Guns
    • 1. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Drywall Screw Gun
    • 2. Milwaukee 2866-20 M18 FUEL Drywall Screw Gun
    • 3. Makita XSF03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Drywall Screwdriver
    • 4. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Drywall Screw Gun & Cut-out Tool Combo Kit
    • 5. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Drywall Screw Gun Collated Magazine Accessory
    • 6. DEWALT Drywall Screw Gun, 6.0-Amp
    • 7. DEWALT Drywall Screw Gun, 6.3-Amp
    • 8. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Drywall Screw Gun Kit, Brushless
    • 9. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Drywall Screw Gun
  • How to Choose The Best Drywall Screw Gun?
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Final Thoughts

Top 9 Best Drywall Screw Guns

We have conducted market research to bring you the best drywall screw guns available now. Picking any of these will hopefully benefit you greatly.

Best Drywall Screw Guns

1. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Drywall Screw Gun

DEWALT 20V MAX XR
Weight2.7 pounds
Dimensions8.25 x 3 x 11.13 inches
Voltage20 volts
MaterialPlastic ,Metal
Power SourceBattery Powered
Warranty 3 year limited warranty

The DCF620B is an excellent tool to have in your home or workplace. It comes with a brushless motor as I constructed of durable materials. It has an adjustable nosepiece to set the perfect depth. This also has a locking mechanism that will lock up when the set depth is achieved.

The tool has a soft-grip handle and is very ergonomic. It is lightweight and can easily be carried every day. The variable speed trigger allows it to have a smooth start to your work. Its design also allows the tool to be used with minimal workers’ fatigue.

The motor in these tools has a lot of torque and efficiency. It is rated to be 33% more efficient than most in its class. Any standard battery pack will be enough to last for hours due to the improved motor.  It is fast and can perform basic work in no time.

The only downside to this tool is that it does not come with a battery pack. This is another reason this product is competitively priced. Given you are not new to this market, you probably have a few batteries lying around. So, buying this would make more sense.

Highlighted Features

  • Brushless motor makes for improved performance
  • Has Cone-Lock secures nose cone lock
  • Built-in Led light for better visibility
  • Battery and charger are not included
  • Max battery voltage is 20V
Check on Amazon

2. Milwaukee 2866-20 M18 FUEL Drywall Screw Gun

Milwaukee 2866-20
Weight2.5 pounds
Dimensions9 x 2.25 x 7.5 inches
Voltage18 volts
MaterialMetal/plastic
Power SourceDc

If you are on the hunt for a cordless drywall screw gun, the 2866-20 M18 Fuel from might just be the right product that you need. It’s well balanced, lightweight, and comes with an auto-feature that saves battery life, extends tool-life, and provides additional safety.

Speaking of battery, it comes with Milwaukee’s own REDLITHIUM 5.0Ah batteries that feature REDLINK PLUS Intelligence. This gives 3 times longer runtime than most of the similarly priced screw guns at this price point while also providing faster charging time.

This drywall screwdriver is faster than a lot of corded tools out there. Powering this tool is a brushless motor that Milwaukee calls the “POWERSTATE”. It’s a motor that is designed for productivity as it can deliver up to 4500 RPM. It’s enough to get through most construction work.

On spec, this drywall specific gun is supposed to hang 64 sheets on a full charge. However, you can easily get around 50 sheets at a time on one run. As for usability, the weight and feel have the right combination that is desired by professionals for all-day use.

Highlighted Features

  • POWERSTATE Brushless motor that generates 4500 RPM
  • Powered by REDLITHIUM 5.0Ah batteries
  • Auto-start functionality
  • Ergonomic design
  • Low noise
Check on Amazon

3. Makita XSF03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Drywall Screwdriver

Makita XSF03Z 18V
Weight3 pounds
Dimensions10 x 5 x 6 inches
StyleBare Tool Only
MaterialPlastic
Power SourceBattery
Warranty 3 years

Up next we have an 18V brushless, cordless drywall specific screwdriver from Makita. The XSF03Z is a popular product in Makita’s drywall screwdriver lineup for a couple of good reasons. It’s a powerful tool that can easily keep up with high productivity standards of professional drywall contractors.

Powering this screwdriver is a powerful and efficient brushless motor and features an 18V LXT lithium-ion battery which is Makita’s exclusive battery that has push-drive technology. With this feature, you can set the trigger on lock-on mode and the motor will only run when you engage the fastener.

This neat little feature can save you a lot of time and lower noise on the job site because the motor will only run when you need it to run. This also saves battery power. On spec, it can hang up to 40 sheets of drywall on a single run. The 4.0Ah battery is ideal as it gives more runtime per charge.

It takes around 40 minutes to fully charge the battery. This means, you will spend more time working and less time waiting for the battery to get fully charged. It also has an adjustable nosepiece for accurate and consistent screw depth. Finally, the design is compact and ergonomic which makes it very easy to use.

Highlighted Features

  • A brushless motor that delivers up to 4000 RPM
  • Quiet running motor
  • Features Push Drive technology that saves battery/tool life
  • Ergonomic and compact design
  • It comes with built-in LED lights 
Check on Amazon

4. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Drywall Screw Gun & Cut-out Tool Combo Kit

DEWALT 20V MAX
Weight2 Pounds
Dimensions15.81 x 16.06 x 11.81 inches
StyleScrewgun & cut-out tool kit
Voltage20 volts
Power SourceBattery Powered
Warranty 3 year limited warranty

The DCK263D2 is a combo pack that comes with a drywall screw gun and a cut-out tool. The screw gun sports a 4400-rpm motor with brushless technology. It is more efficient than most guns as they are rated to run 33% longer than the rest.

The screw gun is the same one as the one mentioned above. A great addition was the cut-out tool. It has an industrial-grade motor capable of supplying up to 26000 rpm. The LED light fitted in both the tools makes life simpler when there, not enough light around.

Both tools are made of the best quality materials out there, making them extremely durable. Professionals will love to acquire this product as it gives you the best of both worlds with a more affordable price tag. Both tools have soft grips for comfortable long hours of work.

The pack also comes included with two battery packs, one for each tool. The batteries are both 20v and can last a while before completely draining out. If longer working hours are a necessity, you will be happy to know that the included fast charger will be a good friend indeed.

Highlighted Features

  • Brushless motor for longer runtime
  • Lithium-ion battery rated to provide 33% more runtime
  • High speed and efficient screw gun increasing versatility
  • 26000-rpm capable cut-out tool
  • Easy bit changing mechanism
  • Led light for better low light capability
Check on Amazon

5. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Drywall Screw Gun Collated Magazine Accessory

DEWALT 20V MAX XR
Weight1.3 Pounds
Dimensions9.13 x 2.75 x 5.44 inches
Voltage20 volts
Battery Cell TypeLithium Ion
Power SourceCorded Electric

The DCG6201 is an optional extra that attaches to a screw gun. It makes the job easier as it can support a longer bit and slip. It weighs in around 1 pound and is a great addition to your gun as it enables you to work with heavier materials.

It is constructed of hard plastic and bits of metal. It attaches to a screw gun firmly and can be left on with minimal supervision. The bits that can be fitted can be as big as 4mm. However, other manufacturers support bits up to 6mm.

It is compact enough to get into most corners. It is a good value addition if you have already purchased a screw gun. If you are looking for some added versatility, you cannot go wrong with this product. It is intended for personal use, but a little industrial work probably will not hurt.

Highlighted Features

  • Easy to switch to and from a collated driving system
  • Highly versatile when changing screw sizes
  • Built-in release button
  • Can work with most generic screw strips
Check on Amazon

6. DEWALT Drywall Screw Gun, 6.0-Amp

DEWALT Drywall Screw Gun
Weight0.352 ounces
Dimensions12 x 10.25 x 3 inches
Voltage120 volts
StyleScrew Gun
Warranty 
One year warranty, one year service agreement and 30 day no-risk trial

The DW255 is an extremely affordable and versatile screwdriver. It is a very capable tool for anyone who is looking for a light gun. It has a decent build quality and will be perfect for casual work around the house or a DIY job.

Another feature included is helical-cut steel gear, which has a longer life and increased durability. It is claimed by the manufacturer that the tool allows consistent depth due to its locking mechanism. The tool also has a variable speed reversing technology installed.

This is a corded tool that makes for its more affordable price. Although corded tools are a talk of the past, this product is no slouch as you still get a great experience using them. Also, you will never have to stop working on charging batteries.

Its motor is rated to run at 4000 rpm and can run almost constantly without overheating. However, it is not recommended to push it too hard. It works with most square and Phillip screws.  The motor fitted has a high- speed transmission fitted to handle harder materials.

Highlighted Features

  • Heavy Duty variable speed reversing tool
  • Simple operation technology
  • Depth sensitive nose piece
  • Comfortable two-finger rubber trigger
  • Hi-speed transmission capable of handling heavy materials
  • Ergonomic and lightweight
  • Helical-cut and heat-treated steel gears for improved durability
Check on Amazon

7. DEWALT Drywall Screw Gun, 6.3-Amp

DEWALT Drywall Screw Gun
Weight4.15 pounds
Dimensions12 x 10.25 x 3 inches
ColorYellow
MaterialOther
Power SourceCorded-electric
Warranty 1 Year Full Warranty

If you are looking for a perfect single screw screwdriver, then the DW272 is what you’re looking for. It has a metal build coupled with durable plastic. It can handle almost any job you throw at it with ease. Some even say that its build is nearly indestructible.

Since this is an entry-level product, do not expect to get a heavy-duty motor. It is capable of hitting speeds up to 4000 rpm, which makes it a good enough tool to have around your workshop. However, unlike other tools out there, it cannot mount a strip feeder.

The ergonomics of this tool is one of the best in class. The trigger has a sweet rubber grip, which makes it great for long term use. Any standard bit will easily fit in the chuck. However, one-handed use may be quite challenging when changing them.

Another cool feature is the trigger lock that makes your work more precise and simpler. Just engage the lock at your suitable speed and continue working. The lock release is impossible to accidentally disengage as it is situated at the bottom of the drill.

Highlighted Features

  • Durable metal gear build for increased reliability
  • Comfortable to use with rubber grips and cutaway triggers
  • Helical-cut steel gears for longevity
  • Ergonomic lightweight design
Check on Amazon

8. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Drywall Screw Gun Kit, Brushless

DEWALT 20V MAX XR
Weight7 pounds
Dimensions15.5 x 4.88 x 10.63 inches
Voltage20 volts
MaterialSteel, plastic
Power SourceBattery Powered
Warranty 3 year limited warranty

The DCF620D2 simply put, is one of the best screw guns in the market now. Its brushless feature is its biggest selling point. These motors tend to last longer and are usually lighter in weight. They are very power efficient, giving you more time at work.

The tool has another ace up its sleeve being cordless. This boosts its versatility and can easily be carried every day. The motor is this product that is very capable and rigid, enabling it to achieve speeds of up to 4400 rpm.

The build quality is worth praising as it is no slouch. It is made up of tough metal and plastics. So, the accidental drops on concrete will not really do much other than a light scratch. A led light is also fitted to the tool for added low light situations.

The battery is included in the package and can be charged in 30 minutes. An added case would have been a great extra. It has an included 20V battery that can last longer than previous models the company released in the yesteryears.

Highlighted Features

  • Powerful brushless motor
  • Has Cone-Lock technology
  • Lithium-ion battery supporting 33% more capacity
  • Led light for better visibility
  • Ergonomic design and durable build structure
Check on Amazon

9. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Drywall Screw Gun

DEWALT 20V MAX XR
Weight2.9 Pounds
Dimensions15 x 7 x 11.1 inches
Type of BulbLED
Voltage20 volts
Power SourceBattery Powered
Warranty 3 year limited warranty

The DCK267D2 is a combo pack that includes a few great tools to make your construction work a walk in the park. The pack includes the DCF620 screw gun, the DCF887 impact driver, 20V battery pack, and fast charger.

The impact driver is very capable and is able to maintain speed more than 4000 rpm under heavy load. Freely, the motor can achieve 3250 rpm of speed. It is a well-built product and a great addition to the combo. Also included is a 20v battery which will last a great deal of time

The screw gun does not have much to talk about but being called a brilliant tool. This also has a 20v battery capable of running for hours on end. In case you ever run out, give yourself a 30-minute break because that’s how long the battery will need to recharge.

Both the devices have LED lights for added versatility to work in tight spaces. Both of them are lightweight and ergonomic. You will not go wrong with either of them. The included travel case is the icing on the cake if you carry around your tools with you frequently.

Highlighted Features

  • Capable of hitting speeds up to 4400 rpm
  • ¼ inch hex chuck enables one-handed bit loading
  • Lithium-ion battery is the best in the market
  • Led light for improved low light visibility
  • Added fast charger
Check on Amazon

How to Choose The Best Drywall Screw Gun?

Here are some of the most important factors that you need to keep in mind when choosing a drywall screw gun.

Best Drywall Screw Guns Review

Screw Length

When looking to drill a wall, the length of your screw is very important. Most houses use ½ inch screws, but there are other sizes available, like ¼ and 5/8 inches. 5/8 inches are usually thicker than others to take into account of fire hazards used in garage walls.

Screw Threads

Coarse-thread screws are intended for use in wood studs. They are wide and help get a good grip. A downside of these is that they are mostly metal burrs that tend to get stuck in your hands. Make sure you wear proper gloves when working with these.

Fine-thread screws work best when applied to metal studs. Since course threads chew through wood, they have a higher probability of being unable to be reapplied if things go wrong. In the case of fine threads, they gradually cut through metal by self-threading to achieve a good grip.

Cordless Vs. Corded

Corded screw guns have the advantage of maintaining a constant working experience as they will never go out of power. They are reliable but take a hit on portability. They come in power options of 110v or 240v. For basic housework, it is recommended to buy 240v as a separate power transformer I needed for 110v.

Cordless screw guns, on the other hand, are very portable and usually more lightweight. However, investing in extra battery packs must be taken into consideration as you do not want to run out of power mid-work. They come in packs of 18 to 20-volt packs, which determine how fast you can work.

Weight

Cordless tools usually tend to be heavier than their corded counterparts as they have to bear the battery pack. The weight difference may not vary by much, but it is still important for it to be taken into consideration. Corded tools are usually lighter, but they come at the cost of being less portable.

When buying a screw gun, try to look for one between 3 to 7 pounds in weight. These are the market standards and will be easy to lug around. If you are already using a heavier tool investing in a lighter model maybe improve your efficiency in the long run

Speed and Clutch

Most powerful tools have a variable speed and adjustable clutch. An adjustable clutch allows you to use it on various materials. This also means that you will be able to use your screw gun to drill holes. If drilling is not a necessity, getting one without this feature also works.

Depth Gauge

Most screw guns have an adjustable collar that allows you to set the depth to which you can drill. If you screw in too deep, you will end up ruining the whole job. Thus, investing in a gun with a special collar will ensure that your drill stops operating once that depth is reached.

Additional Features

There are very few products out there that do not invest in value addition. Adding a few features make not break the product, but it will definitely give it a slight edge. Everyone loves a little more than what they came for, and a little can go a long way.

The addition of an LED light can be very useful when you have to work in dim lit areas. They usually do not take up much space and require minimum power. Make sure you check if it is properly placed so that it illuminates your working surface rather than cast a shadow.

Belt hooks are another thing you can look out for. A tool that can support the attachment of a belt hook will benefit you greatly. It simplifies your work in tight spaces. Look for guns that have removable clips. Stainless steel hooks are very strong and do not add much weight to the end product.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many screws are there in a strip?

Ans: Most industrial-grade strips have 50 screws attached. These come with a stainless-steel housing and will easily fit on the front end of the screw gun. A separate extension may need to be purchased if your tool does not support it.

Q: When I drive screws, they smoke up. What may be the problem?

Ans: This is a commonly reported problem for many first timers. If you are not familiar with your product, check to see if it has a motion reversing function. Almost all the time, the chuck gets reversed, and you end up in such a situation.

Q: How do I adjust the nose piece?

Ans: When adjusting your nose pitch, make sure it is one notch past the point of a screw. To remove the nose pitch, you need to undo the Phillips screws holding it in place with the motor’s head.

Q: Do the combos come with two battery packs?

Ans: The combos usually have two batteries included, one for each tool. It is a necessary addition, as buying a combo is worthless. However, most of them will include only one charger. So, investing in a second one will be a good idea.

Q: How do I control my speed settings?

Ans: Most of the screw-guns mentioned above have a variable pressure-sensitive trigger, which allows you to control power. They come with either a two or three setting speed controller.

Final Thoughts

All of the screw-guns mentioned above uphold DeWalt’s high-class reputation as a compliant manufacturer. Their brushless technology has changed how the industry operates and has added a lot of value to their name.

Almost everyone should get a little taste of what they are looking for, given they are looking to invest in a screw gun. We recommend purchasing a cordless gun as they give you the most versatility and ease of operation. However, the corded ones come a close second.

Filed Under: Power Tools Tagged With: Drywall

About James

I am not a born legend handyman but turned a handyman, My grandpa was a generous handyman, my father is missing from that line. However, I spent twelve to sixteen hours a day on my woodshop, Think how passionate I am. However, Now I am active on here in Legend Handyman, and I am loving it.

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

Recent Posts

  • Jigsaw Vs. Circular Saw
  • Free Tiny House Plans
  • Free Jewelry Box Plans
  • DIY Plant Stand Ideas for Plant Lovers
  • Home Inspector Tools Checklist

Footer

Quick Navigation

  • Home
  • Disclaimer
  • Privacy Policy
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Affiliate Disclaimer

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

© 2021 · Legend Handyman | All Rights Reserved