Toolden Top Picks: Highest Rated Power Tools by Tradespeople
Trusted by the trades, Toolden boasts an “Excellent” 4.5 / 5 TrustScore from 26,000+ Trustpilot reviews. Builders, carpenters, electricians and other professionals rate these cordless standouts—angle grinder, jigsaw, framing nailer, combi drill and impact driver—as the very best. Each tool delivers rugged performance, reliability and value, earning consistent five-star praise from verified buyers.
In this list you’ll find a mix of cordless powerhouses – from an angle grinder to a jigsaw, a framing nailer, a combi drill, and an impact driver. All are “body only” models, meaning you can use your existing batteries or purchase batteries separately, allowing cost savings if you’re already invested in a platform. Read on to see why these tools earn 5-star praise from the tradespeople who use them daily.
Side-by-side spec check
| Model | Category | Voltage | Performance snapshot | Weight | Why tradespeople rave about it | Trustpilot verdict† |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makita DGA452Z | 115 mm cordless angle grinder | 18 V LXT | No-load speed 11,000 rpm; 115 mm disc | 2.0 – 2.3 kg | Slim housing, anti-restart & overload protection, 10,000 rpm real-world cutting power | Consistently praised for “punchy power in a light shell” and long runtime – a firm 5-star favourite |
| DeWalt DCS334N | XR brushless top-handle jigsaw | 18 V XR | Variable 0 – 3,200 spm; 26 mm stroke; 135 mm wood capacity | 2.1 kg | Tool-free blade clamp, four-position orbital action for cleaner curves | “Smooth, low-vibration cuts” – tradespeople mark it as near-flawless for site work |
| Paslode IM360Xi | 1st-fix gas framing nailer | 7.4 V Li-ion (fuel + battery) | 105 J impact force; up to 13,000 shots/charge | 3.6 kg | Highest power-to-weight ratio, quick-release magazine & cold-weather reliability | Reviewers love the “jam-free speed” and freedom from hoses – a go-to on roofing and stud work |
| DeWalt DCD796N | XR brushless combi drill | 18 V XR | 0-550 / 0-2,000 rpm; 70 Nm max torque; 34,000 bpm hammer | 1.6 kg (body) | Two-speed metal gearbox, 15-position clutch & bright LED work-light – “all-round site hero” | Widely rated for reliability and battery life – “the drill every apprentice ends up buying” |
| Milwaukee M18FID3 | FUEL ¼″ hex impact driver | 18 V FUEL | 226 Nm max torque; 0-4,000 rpm; 0-4,400 ipm | 1.7 kg (with 5 Ah pack) | Four-mode DRIVE CONTROL, compact 113 mm body, REDLINK PLUS electronics for cool running | Tradespeople highlight its “ridiculous grunt in tight spaces” – a 4.9-star powerhouse |
Makita DGA452Z LXT 18V Cordless 115mm Angle Grinder (Body Only)
Makita’s DGA452Z 18 V cordless angle grinder—hailed as the brand’s “most-loved” model—teams a 115mm disc with a 10,000 rpm motor for corded-class cutting and grinding. Weighing only about 1.9kg and shaped with a slim, ergonomic grip, it delivers superb cordless freedom and manoeuvrability for long stints on site.
Key features and benefits of the Makita DGA452Z include:
- Strong Performance: High-speed 10,000 RPM motor delivers fast cutting and grinding, aided by Makita’s efficient motor design. It’s powerful enough for cutting steel, grinding welds, or slicing through masonry with the right disc.
- Safety Controls: Built-in electronic current limiter with L.E.D. warning lights helps protect the motor from overload, while an anti-restart function prevents accidental startups after battery changes. These safety features give tradespeople peace of mind on the job.
- Cordless Convenience: Being part of Makita’s 18V LXT lineup, this grinder runs on the same batteries that power your other Makita tools. Cordless operation means you can use it anywhere – ideal for worksites without power or when working at awkward angles or heights.
- Included Accessories: Even as a “body only” unit, it comes with a side handle, lock-nut wrench, and abrasive wheel to get you started.
This Makita grinder has earned excellent ratings from tradespeople for its combination of power, portability, and value. Overall, the DGA452Z’s blend of cordless freedom and Makita’s engineering makes it a top pick for anyone needing a reliable grinder on site.
Makita DGA452Z LXT 18V Cordless 115mm Angle Grinder (Body Only)
DeWalt DCS334N-XJ 18V XR Brushless Jigsaw (Body Only)
DeWalt’s DCS334N-XJ 18 V XR brushless jigsaw is a top-handle favourite with the trades. Its brushless motor maximises run-time and durability, while the variable-speed trigger with lock-off delivers fast, controlled cuts. A four-position pendulum action lets you move seamlessly from rapid roughing to fine finish work for true on-site versatility.
Tradespeople appreciate several key features of this jigsaw:
- Tool-Free Blade Changes: The DCS334N uses a quick and easy keyless blade clamp that accepts standard T-shank blades. Swapping blades on the fly – whether for wood, metal, or plastics – is fast and requires no allen keys or screwdrivers, minimising downtime.
- Bevel & Precision Features: An adjustable base shoe with an anti-scratch cover tilts up to 45° in both directions for bevel cuts. There’s also a built-in dust blower that keeps your cut line clear, and a rubberised grip plus anti-vibration counterbalance mechanism for smooth operation. All of this means greater accuracy and comfort, even on intricate cutting tasks.
- Compact and Powerful: With up to 3,200 strokes per minute cutting speed and a stroke length of 26mm, this jigsaw slices through lumber up to 135mm thick (or steel up to 10mm). Yet it weighs only ~2.1 kg. The brushless motor not only adds power but also extends runtime and tool life – a win-win for busy professionals.
It’s no surprise that this DeWalt jigsaw earns glowing reviews. Many buyers comment on its precision and build quality. This reflects the general sentiment towards the DCS334N and its XR brushless performance. Whether you’re a joiner making curved cuts in plywood or an installer trimming a countertop, this jigsaw’s smooth cutting and smart features make it a top pick among the highest-rated power tools.
DeWalt DCS334N-XJ 18V XR Brushless Jigsaw (Body Only)
Paslode IM360Xi 7.4V Cordless 1st Fix Gas Framing Nailer (with 1×2.1Ah Battery)
Paslode’s IM360Xi first-fix framing nailer is the trades’ cordless favourite. A gas cartridge and 7.4 V Li-ion ignition battery drive 50–90 mm nails straight into tough timber, giving compressor-free freedom on site. Light, perfectly balanced and boasting an unrivalled power-to-weight ratio, it makes framing, roofing and stud work fast and fatigue-free all day long.
Notable features and benefits of the Paslode IM360Xi include:
- All-Day Performance: A high-performing lithium battery (with up to 13,000 nails per charge) and weatherproof fuel cells keep the IM360Xi firing “all day, every day, no matter the challenge.” Even in cold weather (down to -15°C), this nailer performs reliably. You can drive 1,000+ nails per hour and it won’t slow you down.
- Ergonomic & Jam-Free: Paslode has made this nailer about 7% lighter than its predecessor and improved the balance, which guarantees better comfort and less fatigue during long framing sessions. A re-engineered grip adds extra comfort and control. Plus, the quick-release magazine virtually eliminates nail jams, so you won’t lose time prying out bent nails.
- Power and Speed: With 105 Joules of impact force, the IM360Xi can drive nails into LVL, hardwood, and dense lumber with ease. It fires 2–3 nails per second, keeping up with rapid work pacing. The included 2.1Ah battery recharges in only 90 minutes, and you get about 1,100 shots per fuel cell which is plenty for a day’s work.
Tradespeople consistently rate the Paslode IM360Xi five stars, citing how much labor it saves. With this nailer, tasks like roof battening, decking, or stud wall framing become faster and easier, as it eliminates manual hammering and increases efficiency. If you’re looking for a top-rated framing nail gun that pros depend on, the Paslode IM360Xi is a clear winner.
Paslode IM360Xi 7.4V Cordless 1st Fix Gas Framing Nailer with 1x 2.1Ah Battery
DeWalt DCD796N 18V XR Brushless Combi Drill (Body Only)
DeWalt’s DCD796N 18 V XR combi drill packs a brushless motor for up to 50 % longer run-time yet measures just 174 mm long. Compact, light and hammer-capable, it’s the go-to mid-level drill for pros and DIYers tackling tight-space or overhead jobs.
Highlights of the DeWalt DCD796N combi drill:
- Powerful & Versatile: With a two-speed all-metal transmission and 15-position adjustable torque clutch, this drill can drive screws consistently and drill into various materials with ease. It delivers up to ~70Nm of torque in “hard” mode, allowing you to tackle tough drilling tasks (wood, masonry, metal) when the hammer function is engaged. Yet you can dial down the torque for delicate screwdriving jobs – true versatility.
- Hammer Function: Being a combi drill, the DCD796N has a percussion hammer action for drilling into brick and masonry when needed. This makes it more versatile than a standard drill driver. You can switch between drilling, hammer drilling, or screwdriving modes, making one tool do the work of many.
- Ergonomics & Convenience: DeWalt equipped this drill with an ergonomic rubberized grip for comfort, and an intelligent trigger for precise speed control. It also features a built-in LED work light with 3 brightness settings, including an extra-bright spotlight mode for dark spaces. The tool’s light weight (about 1.3 kg body) and balanced feel mean less fatigue during repetitive tasks.
This DeWalt combi drill consistently earns high ratings for its blend of power, compact size, and tough build. Whether you’re drilling holes for a dozen concrete anchors or driving screws into timber frames, the DCD796N delivers reliable performance. Backed by DeWalt’s reputation for durability, it’s a top pick that has proven itself in the hands of countless professionals.
DeWalt DCS355N 18V XR Multi-Tool (Brushless)
Milwaukee M18FID3-0X 18V FUEL 1/4″ Hex Impact Driver (Body Only)
Milwaukee’s M18FID3-0X M18 FUEL impact driver is a compact powerhouse, serving up 226 Nm of torque, 3,900 rpm and 4,400 ipm—making it one of the quickest drivers in its class. Builders, carpenters and mechanics laud its ability to sink long screws and coach bolts effortlessly, while its Gen 4 brushless tech ensures industrial-grade durability in a body-only, job-site-friendly package.
Key reasons why the Milwaukee M18FID3 impact driver is adored by pros:
- Extreme Power in a Compact Form: This 18V impact driver’s “outstanding torque of 226 Nm” under load provides more than enough muscle for demanding jobs. Yet the tool is only ~117mm in length and lightweight, so it fits into tight spaces and reduces strain. Milwaukee’s latest brushless motor and optimized impact mechanism give you high power efficiency and longevity.
- 4-Mode Drive Control: The M18FID3 features Milwaukee’s 4-mode Drive Control, including 3 speed/torque settings and a special self-tapping screw mode. This lets you tailor the output to your task – from delicate cabinet screws to high-torque ledger screws – preventing over-driving or stripping. That precision combined with power is a big plus for tradespeople who work with various fasteners.
- Durability and Battery System: Built to jobsite-grade durability standards, the M18 FUEL impact driver can take daily abuse. It runs on Milwaukee’s 18V REDLITHIUM batteries, which offer great runtime and have onboard fuel gauges. The tool also has handy touches like an LED worklight and a belt clip for convenience.
It’s easy to see why this impact driver garners 5-star reviews. Professionals frequently mention the tremendous speed and torque in a small package, noting it makes work faster and easier. If you need to drive a ledger screw or hundreds of deck screws, the M18FID3 will do it without breaking a sweat (or stripping screw heads). It’s a top pick that lives up to Milwaukee’s reputation and then some.
Milwaukee M18FID3-0X 18V FUEL 1/4″ Hex Impact Driver (Body Only)
FAQ
“Body Only” tools
Just the bare unit – no battery, charger or case. Ideal if you already own compatible batteries; newcomers simply add a starter kit.
Cordless vs corded power
With modern Li-ion packs and brushless motors, 18 V (and higher) cordless tools now match mains machines for almost all professional tasks, while giving cable-free mobility. Only continuous, ultra-heavy-duty work still favours corded.
Most-trusted pro brands
Makita, DeWalt, Milwaukee and Paslode have earned site-tough reputations for durability, long warranties and extensive battery ecosystems.
Combi drill vs impact driver – do you need both?
- Combi drill: drills wood, metal and masonry (hammer mode) and handles light screw-driving; keyless chuck and adjustable clutch give control.
- Impact driver: hex-collet driver that hammers rotationally, sinking long screws and bolts fast with minimal wrist strain, but poor for precise drilling.
Pros typically pilot-drill with a combi, then power-drive fixings with an impact driver – the perfect pairing for efficient site work.