Need driver advice for deck build - impact or drill?

Hey everyone, I'm about to start building a 12x16 deck and I'm in the market for a new driver. I've got an old NiCad drill that's on its last legs. Should I get an impact driver or just a good drill/driver? I'll be using mostly 3" deck screws. Any recommendations? Budget is around $150.

For deck screws, impact driver all the way. I've been using Makita for 15 years and never had an issue. The XDT131 is a beast and right in your price range. Once you go impact, you won't go back. Just make sure you use impact-rated bits or you'll be snapping them left and right.

I'd argue you need both. An impact driver is great for driving screws, but for precision work like counterboring or drilling pilot holes, you want a drill. If you can stretch your budget, get a combo kit. DeWalt's 20V MAX combo is often on sale for around $200. The impact has 3 speeds which is crucial for not stripping screws. Also, consider brushless for longer runtime.

I second the combo kit idea. I built my entire shed with the DeWalt 20V combo and it was a game-changer. The impact driver drove 3" screws like butter. Plus, having two batteries means you're never down. If you're set on just one tool, impact driver is the way to go for decking. But you'll likely want a drill soon after.

I'm a woodworker and I use both regularly. For decks, impact driver is ideal because it reduces wrist strain. But if you're doing any finish work, like railings, a drill gives you more control. Also, check the torque specs. Too much torque can snap screws or strip heads. I'd recommend a mid-range impact with adjustable speeds. And don't skimp on bits – get some good impact-rated ones.