The Best Ratcheting Screwdrivers, Tested and Reviewed
Whether you’re working on a car, installing a doorknob, or driving a screw by hand into a piece of dense wood, the best ratcheting screwdriver can help. These handy tools can help you maintain contact with stubborn screws, nuts, and bolts when you need to apply a bit of extra torque.
These hand tools are all about convenience. They use interchangeable screw bits, many of which are stored onboard. Plus, their ratcheting mechanisms allow you to maintain contact with the fastener to quickly tighten or loosen—offering plenty of torque without resetting your grip between twists.
Choosing the best ratcheting screwdriver can be a bit tricky, so we decided to test some of the bestselling models to see if they lived up to their reputations. Some did, but others didn’t. Ahead, learn what to look for when shopping for a ratcheting screwdriver, and find out why the following tools earned a spot in our lineup.
- BEST OVERALL: Wera Kraftform Kompakt 27 RA 2 SB Screwdriver
- RUNNER-UP: Megapro Multi-Bit Screwdriver, Phillips, Slotted
- BEST MULTIPURPOSE: Milwaukee 10-in-1 Square Ratcheting Multi-Bit Driver
- MOST VERSATILE: Makita 47-Piece Ratcheting Screwdriver Accessory Kit
- BEST IN TIGHT SPOTS: MulWark 20pc 1/4 Low Profile Mini Ratchet Screwdriver Set
- BEST ALL-PURPOSE: WORKPRO 12-in-1 Ratcheting Multi-Bit Screwdriver
- BEST T-HANDLE GRIP: Williams 7 7/8″ T-Handle Ratcheting Screwdriver
- BEST WITH LIGHT: Bahco Phillips/Pozidriv/Slotted Ratchet Screwdriver
Also Tested:
- Klein Tools 32593 Multi-bit Ratcheting Screwdriver
- Klein Tools 32558 Multi-Bit Ratcheting Screwdriver
How We Tested the Best Ratcheting Screwdrivers
Each of the ratcheting screwdrivers we tested was pushed to its limits so we could get a good idea of how it would perform over time and in various situations. With each tool, we inserted screws into three types of wood—pine, ash, and walnut—to see whether the ratcheting action would stand up to the different densities.
We checked the directional collars of each tool to see if they switched directions easily and to make sure they didn’t slip while using the tool. We also inspected the overall solidness of the tool and checked whether onboard bit storage was easy to access.
While we considered whether the tool came with a variety of bits, we didn’t eliminate models that didn’t come with bits because the user can also pick those up later. We awarded points for the screwdrivers that accepted standard bits and subtracted points if they didn’t. Not all of the ratcheting screwdrivers we tested made the cut, but the ones that did are among the best options available today.
Our Top Picks
It’s time to find out how some of today’s most popular models fared in our tests. Rest assured, we didn’t go easy on them. We used them to remove stuck screws, insert new screws into different densities of wood, and to tighten and loosen hex and other fasteners. While each of the following ratcheting screwdrivers is designed for slightly different uses, each is a standout in its category.
Best Overall
Wera Kraftform Kompakt 27 RA 2 SB Screwdriver
This Bob Vila Approved product carries our brand’s highest level of recommendation.
Bob Vila Approved recognizes the household and DIY products that impressed us most in our real-world testing and that exemplify core values of the Bob Vila brand, including craftsmanship, innovation, and value for the dollar. Winners of this designation come recommended by our professional review team and are personally approved by Bob Vila.
Product Specs
- Onboard bit storage: Yes
- Bits included: 6 bits
- Grip type: Nonslip, ergonomic
What We Like
- Well-designed handle is easy to grip; suitable for DIYers as well as pros
- Strong magnet in head keeps the bits and screws in place while in use
- Easy-to-access bit storage for versatility and quick changes
- Smooth ratcheting action provides additional ease of use
What We Don’t Like
- Slightly obtrusive directional collar may not be ideal for some users’ preferences
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty ratcheting screwdriver capable of frequent use, consider the Wera Kraftform Kompakt RA Screwdriver. This ratcheting screwdriver has secure in-handle storage for your bits. It also has an ergonomically designed grip for comfortable use and plenty of torque.
The Wera comes with six bits, including two Phillips-head bits, two square drivers, and two slotted drivers. The shaft also doubles as a ¼-inch nut driver.
The Wera ratcheting screwdriver feels solid in the hand, and one of the first things we noticed was its nonslip, ergonomic grip that’s contoured to help the user get a firm grasp. The bit storage base slid out easily with just a light push of the button on the bottom, making it easy to select the bits. We inserted screws in pine, ash, and walnut boards, and the screwdriver held up to all densities.
One of the nicest features is the Wera’s minimized ratcheting action—we didn’t have to rotate the handle very far backward in order to engage the gear again—less movement equals less physical effort. Another nice feature is the strong magnet in the head that locks the bit in place so it doesn’t fall out. This ratcheting screwdriver is well suited for general around-the-house and DIY use. The only downside—and it’s not a big one—is that the directional collar is a little wider than the grip where it attaches, and large hands can inadvertently change the direction without meaning to.
Get the Wera screwdriver at Amazon.
Runner-Up
Megapro Multi-Bit Screwdriver, Phillips, Slotted
Product Specs
- On-board bit storage: Yes
- Bits included: 12 (six double-ended bits)
- Grip type: Rubber, ergonomic
What We Like
- Good variety of bits for ample project types; provides a lot of versatility
- Able to withstand strong torque pressure for professional use
- Solid and well-made construction provides years of use and effectiveness
What We Don’t Like
- Non-magnetic head; may not keeps bits or screws in place well
When it comes to really cranking down on a fastener, the Megapro ratcheting screwdriver has all the grip you could need. This ratcheting screwdriver’s shaft doubles as a ¼-inch nut driver, and it comes with 12 bits (six double-ended bits), including four Phillips bits, two square drive bits, two slotted bits, and four Torx bits.
The cartridge’s cap rotates freely at the end of the handle, so you can use one hand to apply downward force on the cap while the other twists the handle for maximum torque and control. Also, the thick handle is rubber-coated, providing plenty of gripping surface area. Switching from tightening to loosening, or locking the shaft in place is easy with the Megapro’s collar mechanism.
We found the Megapro well suited for use by those with large hands. Its handle features rubber inserts and is comfortable to grip, but it might be a little large for someone with smaller hands. The end cap slides out for easy bit retrieval, and the double-ended bits make it handy to find the right bit without needing to carry extra bits around. The directional collar is easy to switch, and the ratcheting action is smooth.
We used the Megapro to insert screws in pine, ash, and walnut boards, and then we tested it on removing stubborn screws. It stood up to strong twisting force, and the ratcheting action didn’t slip or break. We used quite a bit of torque. If we could ask for one thing to be different it would be a magnet in the head—when we turned the screwdriver downward, the bits often fell out.
Get the Megapro screwdriver at Amazon or Grainger.
Best Multipurpose
Milwaukee 10-in-1 Square Ratcheting Multi-Bit Driver
Product Specs
- Onboard bit storage: Yes
- Bits included: 6
- Grip type: Rubber and molded plastic
What We Like
- Strong, tight ratcheting action for effective use
- Wire stripper included for ample versatility; may be ideal for professionals
- Easy-to-switch directional collar
What We Don’t Like
- Bits can be slightly tough to get out
If you’re looking for a quality ratcheting screwdriver with a few extra features, you should check out the Milwaukee Multi Bit Ratcheting Screwdriver. This screwdriver comes with six 3.5-inch driver bits, including three square drive bits, two Phillips bits, and two slotted bits. The longer bits are easy to manipulate, and they store on the handle in secure slots, so there’s very little risk of them falling out. The downside is that they were kind of difficult to get out without firmly pressing with our fingertips.
The screwdriver also features some handy extras. It has a wire stripper built into the handle as well as a wire loop bender. Also, the handle sans bit functions as a ¼-inch nut driver. As far as ratcheting goes, the Milwaukee has a collar to switch directions or lock the shaft in place. Although the bits do take up a bit of space on the handle, there is plenty of gripping area for applying lots of torque.
The Milwaukee is a solid little tool, and its ratcheting action is among the smoothest of the models we tested. This didn’t come as a surprise, since the Milwaukee brand is well known and has a great reputation for making quality tools. The head features a strong magnet that holds the bits in place, and the directional collar is well made and easy to switch.
We tested the Milwaukee’s ratcheting action on a variety of boards, and it didn’t bog down even when we used maximum force inserting screws into walnut wood.
We also tested the wire stripper, and it easily removed the insulated sheath from household electrical wires, making the Milwaukee a beneficial tool for DIY electricians as well as for assembling furniture and other projects.
Get the Milwaukee multi bit screwdriver at Amazon.
Most Versatile
Makita 47-Piece Ratcheting Screwdriver Accessory Kit
Product Specs
- Onboard bit storage: No
- Bits included: 42 bits, 7 sockets
- Grip type: Nonslip, ergonomic
What We Like
- Variety of bits and sockets included with purchase for use during many tasks
- Compact but well made construction can fit in tool boxes, belts, and pockets
- Smooth ratcheting action provides ease of use
What We Don’t Like
- No onboard bit storage integrated into the design
The Makita Ratcheting Screwdriver and Bit Set is worth checking out if you’re looking for a ratcheting screwdriver that comes with a comprehensive set of bits and sockets. This 49-piece kit comes with a screwdriver, 11 Phillips bits, eight Torx bits, and four slotted bits. It also comes with seven sockets and several square and hex-drive bits. With this range of bits, most jobs around the house should be a cinch.
The screwdriver has a collar direction adjustment, as well as a lanyard hole for a wrist strap or hanging cord. However, it doesn’t have any onboard storage, so you should keep the case on hand for easy access to bits.
The Makita is a relatively compact tool—smaller than some of the other ratcheting screwdrivers we tested–but its ergonomic, rubber-nubbed handle made it easy to get a firm grasp, and the large selection of bits and sockets allowed us to use the tool to remove and insert screws as well as tighten and loosen nuts. It has a magnet in the head, but it’s not as strong as we would have liked. Still, it kept the bits from falling out. The Makita stood up to maximum driving force for inserting screws in dense wood, and it has a smooth ratcheting action.
While it doesn’t store bits onboard as some of the others do, the plastic storage box that holds the sockets and bits is relatively small, just 2.2 inches by 5.25 inches by 10.25 inches, so it fits neatly in a kitchen drawer or in the glove compartment of a vehicle. We’ve come to expect durability and functional design from Makita, and this little ratcheting screwdriver didn’t disappoint.
Get the Makita ratchet and bit set at Amazon, The Home Depot, Tractor Supply Co., or Ace Tool.
Best in Tight Spots
MulWark 20pc 1/4 Low Profile Mini Ratchet Screwdriver
Product Specs
- Onboard bit storage: No
- Bits included: 20
- Grip type: Metal, finger grip
What We Like
- Small enough for tight spots in tool boxes, belts, and pockets
- Easy-to-switch ratcheting lever for ease of use and versatility
- 20 low-profile bits included with purchase
- Strong magnet in head keeps the bit and screws in place
What We Don’t Like
- Not suitable for use on large or stuck screws
If you’ve ever tried to tighten or loosen screws in tight spots where a straight-handled screwdriver won’t fit, consider the MulWark Low Profile Mini Ratchet Screwdriver. It comes with 20 bits, featuring an assortment of Phillips-head bits, slotted bits, torx bits, and hex bits. It comes with a strong magnet in the head so bits don’t fall out. No onboard storage because this tool is just too small, but the bits fit in two plastic holders that can be easily stored together in a drawer.
Right off the bat, we’ll tell you that the MulWark isn’t suitable for tightening or loosening stuck screws in dense materials because it doesn’t come with a handle large enough to grip with a fist. But that’s not what it’s designed to do, anyway.
The MulWark is made to insert and remove fasteners where there’s very little room to maneuver. Although it was the smallest ratcheting screwdriver we tested, we were able to insert screws in different types of wood—even in walnut—without the ratcheting mechanism failing. But because the MulWark is intended for use with fingers, not a fist grip, our fingers wore out before the tool did. For those times when you need to insert fasteners behind a mounted flat screen or in another tight spot, the MulWark shines.
Get the MulWark mini ratchet at Amazon.
Best All-Purpose
WORKPRO 12-in-1 Ratcheting Multi-Bit Screwdriver
Product Specs
- Onboard bit storage: Yes
- Bits included: 12 (6 double-ended)
- Grip type: Nonslip
What We Like
- Longer bits add reach in tight spaces; suitable for electrical, HVAC, or plumbing work
- Magnetic bits keep the screws and bits in place during use
- Easy-to-switch directional collar can be locked if necessary
What We Don’t Like
- Not suitable in tight spots
The Workpro Ratcheting Screwdriver features a nonslip grip and solid feel, making it easy to get a firm grasp on the handle. The tool stores six 3.5-inch double-ended bits in its base, which gave us 12 different bits to choose from, including slotted, Phillips head, star, and Torx. The bits themselves are magnetic—rather than the head—but they remained firmly in the tool, even when we shook it upside down.
We tested the Workpro by inserting screws in a variety of wood types, and it came through with flying colors—even when we used maximum force and dense walnut wood. We then tested the tool on a range of fasteners and found the bits are well made and appear to be hardened steel.
The directional colla