Metabo HPT Impact Driver Hits 18V Performance Specs with Sub-Compact Frame
It looks like Metabo HPT has discontinued its 12V line of tools, but that doesn’t mean the brand isn’t trying to keep things compact. The Metabo HPT Sub-Compact Impact Driver brings 18-volt performance to the job, but with a super compact build that fills the void left by the departing 12V tools.
What’s the Big Deal?
It all comes down to compatibility and size. The Metabo HPT WH18DDX Sub-Compact Impact Driver provides variable-speed driving that reaches a max of 3,200 RPM. It also provides up to 4,000 impacts per minute, and it generates up to 1,240 in-lbs. of torque. It also does this on the company’s familiar 18V battery platform.
But, size is the other part of the equation. The Metabo HPT WH18DDX approximates the size profile of a 12V tool. At only 5.3″ long, it fits comfortably into tight spots. At 2.6 lbs with the kitted 1.5Ah battery attached, it makes for a truly affordable and lightweight package.
Metabo-HPT 18V Sub-Compact vs Compact
| Model | WH18DDX Sub-Compact | WH18DBFL2QB 18V Compact |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 18V Brushless | 18V Brushless |
| Speed | 3,200 RPM | 3,100 RPM |
| Torque | 1,240 in-lbs. | 1,522 in-lbs. |
| Impact Rate | 4,000 IPM | 3,400 IPM |
| Length | 5.3 in. | 5.0 in. |
| Weight (w/1.5Ah batt) | 2.6 lbs. | 2.9 lbs. |
| Kit price | $139 | $120 |
Given that the closest tool to the WH18DDX in the Metabo HPT lineup is the 18V WH18DBFL2QB, both in terms of size and power. So, we put them side to side.
In terms of speed, the WH18DDX shows some marginal improvements over what the Black Series Impact Driver can crank out. But, perhaps there’s a tradeoff as the WH18DBFL2QB provides almost 300 more in-lbs of torque.
What does seem a little surprising revolves around the size. Metabo HPT has billed the WH18DDX as a Sub-Compact Impact Driver, but it’s still a fraction of an inch larger than the “Compact” Black Series Driver.
It does drop a little bit of weight, though. With a 1.5Ah battery attached to both models, the WH18DDX weighs 1/3 of a pound less than the compact 18V impact driver.
Other Features
- Only 1.8lbs (bare tool)
- Lifetime warranty on the tool body
- Only 5.3 in. long
- Brushless motor produces up to 1,240 in-lbs of torque
- LED light
- Variable speed trigger
Our Take on the Metabo HPT WH18DDX
The topic of sub-compact tools really captures our attention. From what we see, sub-compact tools keep you on a familiar battery platform while providing the power and compactness of 12V tools. Or at least they should. As is often the case, we find flagship and compact tools that often overshadow the compactness of these “sub-compact tools”. Such is the case with the Metabo HPT WH18DDX sub-compact impact driver.
It should certainly get the job done—and it definitely shaves some weight. It also presents a great value given the kit price. However, if you have the money to spend, you may get more performance from the WH18DBFL2QB compact 18V impact driver (if you can still find it). Of course, the flagship 18V triple hammer impact driver outperforms it handily while also coming in a tad bit shorter in length. Just expect to pay twice as much.
Pricing
You can pick up the Metabo HPT Sub-Compact Impact Driver as a kit. It comes with two 1.5Ah batteries a charger, and a hard case, and it retails for $139.
Or, you can pick up a combo kit, which includes the DS18DDX Sub-Compact Drill as well. It comes with two batteries, a charger, and a case. This package will run you $179.
The WH18DDX also features Metabo HPT’s warranty system. The tool body comes with a lifetime warranty, while the batteries are warrantied for 2-years, and the charger for one year.
Metabo HPT Sub-Compact Impact Driver Specs
- Model: Metabo HPT WH18DDX
- Voltage: 18V
- Motor: Brushless
- Torque: 1,240 in-lbs.
- No-Load Speed: 0-3,200 RPM
- Impact Rate: 0-4,000 BPM
- Chuck Type: 1/4 in. Keyless Hex Drive
- LED Light: Yes
- Belt Hook: Yes
- Tool Length: 5.3 in.
- Weight: 1.8 lbs. (bare tool); 2.6 lbs. (with 1.5Ah battery)
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty on tool body, 2-year warranty on battery, 1-year warranty on charger
- Kit Price: $139
For more information about the Metabo HPT WH18DDX, click here.
