Building a Deck: Cordless vs. Impact Driver for Screws?

Hey folks, newbie here. Planning to build a 12x16 deck next month. I have a basic cordless drill but I'm thinking about investing in an impact driver for all the deck screws. Is it worth it? Any recommendations? I'm on a budget, so keep that in mind.

Welcome to the club, Dan! Honestly, an impact driver is a game-changer. I've got a collection of them - the little Milwaukee M12 is my go-to for most stuff, but for a deck, you'll want something with more torque. The Makita XDT16 is a beast and not too pricey. But if you're real budget-minded, the Ryobi One+ is fine for occasional use. Just don't buy the cheapest one - you'll regret it when you strip a screw head.

I've used every brand under the sun, and I swear by DeWalt. Got the 20V MAX XR impact driver and it's never let me down. I've built three decks and a shed with it, and it drives 3-inch screws like butter. Yes, it costs a bit more, but you get what you pay for. Also, make sure to get a good bit - I recommend the DeWalt Max Fit bits. They don't cam out as much.

I'll chime in with a different angle - get both. A drill for pilot holes (doubles as a drill), and an impact for driving. If you're doing a deck, you'll want to pre-drill to avoid splits, especially near the edges. And don't skimp on the screws - use coated deck screws, not drywall screws. As for the impact, I use the Bosch 18V because I like the ergonomics, but honestly, any of the major brands are good. Just make sure you have a spare battery and a good bit set. A magnetic wristband or bit holder is a lifesaver too.

Dumb question but... can I just use my drill in the impact mode? I have an old Black+Decker drill with a hammer function. Would that work for deck screws? I'm a noob at this.