10 Best Magnetic Screwdrivers 2023 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide
- Pete Ortiz
- Last updated:
A good magnetic screwdriver will make every job smoother and more efficient, but a bad one will make you feel like you just threw your money down the drain. How can you get the screwdriver you need without wasting your money? That’s where we come in.
Our reviews of the top magnetic screwdrivers on the market will help you discover the best tool for the job. You can put down the phone, pick up the magnetic screwdriver, and get back to work!
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2023
Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
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Best Overall
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CREMAX CM-TH009 Magnetic Screwdriver Se |
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CHECK PRICE | |
Best Value
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ORIA OA-OH7 Precision Screwdriver |
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CHECK PRICE | |
Premium Choice
|
Steelman 8-Piece Diamond Tip Screwdriver Set |
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CHECK PRICE | |
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TACKLIFE HSS1A Magnetic Screwdriver Set |
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CHECK PRICE | |
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Vickay Magnetic Screwdriver Set |
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CHECK PRICE |
The 10 Best Magnetic Screwdrivers
1. CREMAX Magnetic Screwdriver Set – Best Overall
Our pick for the best overall magnetic screwdriver is the CREMAX CM-TH009 Magnetic Screwdriver Set. You get an excellent value, and the set includes 14 screwdrivers. The ergonomic design makes it easy to hold, and the storage bag keeps everything together.
What’s the drawback? The only downside is that the magnetized tip will likely scratch off over time, especially if you frequently use the screwdriver. But this set still represents the overall best magnetic screwdriver set on our list.
- 14 different screwdriver sizes
- Ergonomic grip
- Included bag
- Magnet tip may scratch off over time
2. ORIA OA-OH7 Precision Screwdriver – Best Value
As a busy homeowner, you may not have much money to throw at a new tool. In that case, you’re probably looking for the best magnetic screwdrivers for the money. Regarding value, our best budget choice is the ORIA OA-OH7 Precision Screwdriver.
This set comes with a whopping 56 bits. We also liked the flexible shaft, which helped make the entire set more versatile. Also, the non-slip driver makes it easy for us to get to work.
What keeps this from being our pick, then? Some of the materials are cheap, including parts holding different bits. Some users report the bits themselves bending and breaking way too easily.
- Great price
- Large set
- Flexible shaft
- Some parts are cheap
- Bits may be too weak
3. Steelman 8-Piece Diamond Tip Screwdriver Set – Premium Choice
Sometimes, you get lucky and have a lot of spare cash to throw at your next tool. So what if you’re looking for one of the nicest magnetic screwdrivers money can buy? In that case, your search stops with the Steelman 8-Piece Diamond Tip Screwdriver Set.
In addition to reliable magnetism, we loved the steel shaft, making this a strong and supportive screwdriver. The black-oxide coating on the shaft helps ward off corrosion, and the diamond-tip coating helps enhance performance while ensuring this screwdriver stands the test of time.
What is the downside to this 4-Phillips, 4-flathead screwdriver set? It costs a lot of money, but you get your money’s worth from the set!
- Steel shaft
- Black-oxide coating
- Diamond-tip coating
- Relatively expensive
4. TACKLIFE HSS1A Magnetic Screwdriver Set
The TACKLIFE HSS1A Magnetic Screwdriver Set is another big set, but is it set really worth your time? For the most part, yes!
You get 26 pieces and a sleek, black carrying case. The chromium-vanadium steel provides a solid design, while the chromium plating helps protect against corrosion. Finally, the ergonomic handles are easy to hold.
What’s the drawback? The only real issue is that some users reported that the screwdrivers don’t always stay in place within the case, and that can get annoying when you need to get to work.
- 26-piece set
- Custom case
- Sturdy design
- Ergonomic handles
- Screwdrivers don’t stay in place within the case
5. Vickay Magnetic Screwdriver Set
The Vickay Magnetic Screwdriver Set includes durable tools at a modest price. As it turns out, this set is a solid intersection of price and quality.
With the chromium-vanadium steel shank, this set will fight off corrosion and last a long time. The ergonomic design makes the tools easy to handle and use, and the hardened tips are nice and durable.
However, the set makes some compromises you should be aware of. First, the screwdrivers are not as magnetic as you might expect. And second of all, the handles are a bit too bulky despite the ergonomic design.
- Sturdy design
- Ergonomic handle
- Reliable, hardened tips
- Weak magnetism
- Bulky handles
6. Amartisan wwer Magnetic Screwdrivers
The Amartisan wwer Magnetic Screwdrivers look, at first glance, like something you’ve seen before: another big sweet of magnetic screwdrivers. But once you open the set, you’ll find a few pleasant surprises.
We liked the selection of 10 screwdriver sizes, and the chromium-vanadium screwdriver bar makes it seem like sturdy construction. The cushioned grip and ergonomic handle keep your hand from hurting after you use it for long periods.
What are the drawbacks, then? Some users reported that the tips are not as magnetic as they should be. Additionally, they are not sturdy enough for any real “heavy-duty” uses.
- Multiple screwdriver sizes
- Sturdy screwdriver bar
- Comfortable handle
- Weak magnetism
- Bad for heavy-duty uses
7. Klein Tools 70035 Multi-Bit Screwdriver
The Klein Tools 70035 Multi-Bit Screwdriver looks pretty simple at first glance, but this “back to basics” design impresses in a few ways. While you only get a single handle, you also get four interchangeable bits, so you can change things up as needed.
The onboard bit storage is a nice touch, though it’s not perfect (more on this in a minute). The handle helps provide solid magnetism compared to many other items in our reviews.
Honestly, the only drawback to this design is that the onboard storage is a little inconvenient. However, that is a minor issue compared to the value of the set.
- 4 interchangeable bits
- Onboard storage
- Strong magnetism
- Onboard storage is difficult to access
8. SHOWPIN TR20 Magnetic Screwdriver
At first glance, the SHOWPIN TR20 Magnetic Screwdriver provides a lot of value in the form of a colorful and versatile set. Unfortunately, this set is likelier to drive you crazy than help you with a project.
There are still a few things we liked about it. For example, the 10 bits and soft carrying case are convenient. But actually, using the tools reveals some flaws.
For example, this doesn’t have enough power to loosen tight bolts or deal with other major projects. The handle feels loose and uncomfortable in your hand. And finally, the magnetism in the set is really weak.
- 10 bits
- Included carrying case
- Weak power
- Weak magnetism
- Uncomfortable handle
9. Steelex D2032 Magnetic Tip Screwdriver
If you like simple design and packaging, the Steelex D2032 Magnetic Tip Screwdriver may look like a solid bet. However, like most gamblers, you will regret throwing your money away.
We liked the 26 bits, and the carrying case was convenient. Beyond that, though, there are several issues. First, the magnetism is weak. On top of that, the magnetism is inconsistent and unpredictable. Even though the Steelex has 26 bits, the quality is so bad that the high number of bits barely matters.
- 26 bits
- Included carrying case
- Weak magnetism
- Inconsistent magnetism
- Poor-quality bits
10. ARES Phillips Precision Screwdriver
The name of the ARES 70003 Phillips Precision Screwdriver evokes the Greek god of war. However, using this screwdriver might have you screaming out “God” for all the wrong reasons.
First, what we liked: the universal bit was very convenient, and it’s Pozidriv-compatible. Sadly, that’s the end of the “pros” for this model. What are the “cons,” then? The magnetism is weak, and the bit is so large that it causes compatibility problems. Overall, as cheap as it is, it is just a poor value for the price.
- Universal bit
- Pozidriv-compatible
- Weak magnetism
- Compatibility problems
- Poor value
Buyer’s Guide – How to Choose the Best Magnetic Screwdriver Set
Hopefully, our reviews have helped you learn more about some of the main magnetic screwdrivers on the market today. However, you may not have enough information to make the best purchasing decision.
That’s why we put together a comprehensive buyer’s guide to magnetic screwdrivers. It will answer your remaining questions while providing everything you need to know about these tools.
Between the reviews and the buyer’s guide, you should be ready to make your purchase! Let’s get started so you can pick a screwdriver and get back to work.
How Magnetic Is It?
If the magnetism is weak, the screwdriver is nearly useless; you won’t be able to use it for the intended purpose. Unfortunately, some screwdrivers are far more magnetic than others.
Scan reviews and user reviews and see what people are saying about the tool’s magnetism. If they praise the high magnetism or the tool has a magnetic shaft, you can rest assured that it will get the job done. If not, then you should move on to another screwdriver!
The Right Tool for the Right Task
Almost any screwdriver will do if you are performing light work around the house. If you need to work on anything heavy-duty, ensure you have a tool to handle it.
It’s also essential to research what you can and cannot use the screwdrivers for. Many people think they cannot use these screwdrivers on a computer thanks to the magnetism. Unless you are sticking the magnetic element near the exposed circuity, using a magnetic screwdriver on your computer is perfectly safe.
To Ratchet or Not to Ratchet
A ratcheting mechanism generally helps improve a magnetic screwdriver’s overall speed and convenience. With it, you can drive screws into place more efficiently without taking the tip off the screw head.
If you have a ratcheting screwdriver, it most likely has 3 modes: ratcheting clockwise to tighten the tool, counterclockwise to loosen the tool, and a mode where you lock the stem to hold everything in place.
So, do you need a ratcheting feature or not? It makes your work faster and more efficient, but a magnetic screwdriver doesn’t have to have such a feature to be a useful and reliable tool.
The Right Bits
Some screwdrivers come with an assortment of bits, while others do not. If you purchase bits separately, try to find chrome-plated or stainless steel bits. They are much more durable and long-lasting than other kinds of bits.
Make sure to seek out bits that match your screws to ensure a smooth performance with no interruptions.
Store It All Away
Before buying a screwdriver, ask yourself how you plan to store your screwdriver and all of the assorted bits. Some magnetic screwdrivers come with a carrying case, while others may require you to make a separate purchase.
You can grab a case with extra features if you want to keep those bits secure and organized. For example, a magnetic bit holder works wonders to keep everything in place, and carousel bit storage makes it easy to find and select the exact bit you need for the current task.
Handle Comfort
Some of the handle’s comfort (or lack thereof) comes from its overall design. Generally speaking, an ergonomic handle will be more comfortable than a non-ergonomic one. Another major factor impacting the comfort is the material of the handle. Typical materials include metal, plastic, and rubber; the material and grip that feel best are mostly a matter of preference.
Finally, you should consider handles with extra features that may help with your work. For example, an anti-skid grip is perfect if you are conducting repairs or need to use a magnetic screwdriver for a long time.
Tool Weight and Size
Most consumers want a lightweight screwdriver for smaller jobs around the house. They’re easy to use and less likely to cause fatigue or injuries. However, lightweight screwdrivers aren’t suited to large, heavy-duty tasks, and they require a magnetic screwdriver with extra weight behind it.
Magnetic Screwdrivers and Electronics
Earlier, we discussed that magnetic screwdrivers are pretty safe to use on your laptop and desktop computer as long as you avoid exposed circuitry. But are these tools safe for the rest of your electronics?
For most modern electronic devices, the answer is “yes.” A metal case typically protects the delicate circuitry to protect the internal components. Between this protective case and the generally low magnetism, your electronics should be safe.
Older electronic devices may not have such protections in place. So it’s best to think twice before you take a magnetic screwdriver to a vintage TV, computer, or VCR.
Magnetizing Your Old Screwdrivers
With a little bit of research and elbow grease, you can turn the most basic screwdriver into a magnetic tool. So why should you bother buying something new instead of renovating the contents of your toolbox?
The first reason is that buying a magnetic screwdriver is a time-saver. It’s very easy to work with a new tool instead of investing all of the time and money into magnetizing old tools. Second, your magnetism experiments may be hit or miss. You might get frustrated if none of the renovated screwdrivers are magnetic enough. In that case, you’re better off buying a magnetic new screwdriver and calling it a day.
The third and final reason is that buying a new screwdriver lets you get the exact model you need to complete specific tasks. If you are simply magnetizing your old screwdrivers, you are stuck with whatever you have on hand, and that may not be enough to make short work of your latest projects.
Conclusion
With any luck, our reviews and buyer’s guide have helped you learn everything you need to know about the best magnetic screwdrivers. If you don’t mind paying for the best, the CREMAX CM-TH009 Magnetic Screwdriver Set is our pick for the best overall tool. You get excellent magnetism and performance, along with the sheer convenience of getting an entire set.
If you’re shopping on a budget, we recommend the ORIA OA-OH7 Precision Screwdriver as our top value pick. You get a solid set at a great price, and the versatility and flexibility of this tool can help you take on many tasks.
Our reviews and buyer’s guide are only the start of your journey. At the end of the day, only you can decide which tool best meets your needs. Just be warned: once you’ve experienced the convenience of magnetic screwdrivers, it may be tough to return to your toolbox’s original tools!
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