Metabo HPT (Hitachi) 12V Impact Driver Review WH10DFL2

Metabo HPT 12V Impact Driver is Primed for an Upgrade

When we tested our group of 12V impact drivers for our recent shootout, there were a lot of questions to answer to sort out the final rankings. While the Metabo HPT 12V impact driver remains unchanged as it shifts from Hitachi to Metabo HPT branding, we want to know if it’s still relevant 5 years after its launch.

Performance

On paper, the Metabo HPT 12V Impact Driver generates a no-load speed of 2,700 RPM and 3,200 IPM. It also produces a max 955 in-lbs of driving torque. No-load speeds are kind of fun to read about, but they don’t mean much until you start putting them under load. So, we added load.

For a look at the ins and outs of how we tested during our shootout, click the main shootout page link here.

We checked its speed under a moderate load by tightening down 1/4″ diameter ledger screws into an OSB subfloor glue-up. The Metabo HPT 12V maintains 270 RPM, which is the 3rd best speed so far. Bosch’s PS42 (283 RPM) is just ahead of it and Milwaukee’s M12 Fuel (397 RPM) has a huge advantage over everyone else.

We use an I-beam and some Grade 8 nuts and bolts to test fastening and breakaway torque. Metabo HPT’s driver averages 369 in-lbs of fastening torque, which puts it smack dab in the middle of the group.

For nut-busting torque, struggles at just 360 in-lbs. Most drivers’ breakaway torque can sometimes double their fastening torque, but in this strange case, Metabo HPT is 9 in-lbs better at fastening on average.

Please realize that our torque tests do not and cannot replace how manufacturers test for their specifications. Head over to the testing methods section on our main shootout page to see the details.

Feature Set

There’s not a ton to write home about in the features section other than the Metabo HPT WH10DFL2 checks off on the basics.

• Brushed motor
• Single speed
• Single LED light
• Belt hook
• Standard 1/4″ hex collet without one-hand bit insertion or ejection

The good news is that with a basic design, Metabo HPT has a lot of ways to improve quickly if they want to continue the line’s development.

Ergonomics

Weight and size play an important role in this category. As a bare tool, the Metabo HPT 12V impact driver weighs in at 1.8 lbs. After strapping on the battery, it only jumps up to 2.3 lbs. This makes it one of the lighter models we tested, settling into 4th place.

Its footprint is a bit bulkier relative to the other 12V impact drivers. It measures 5.9″ from tip to tail, and 7.3″ tall. While the margins are admittedly pretty slim in this group, it is one of the larger 12V tools we’ve tested. It holds down 8th place currently.

All that said, the Metabo HPT 12V is pretty comfortable to hold. The pod style battery forces a slightly larger diameter handle that fits best in medium to large hands and has a comfortable contour to it. It feels pretty balanced, and when its time to put it down,  it can stand up on its own by virtue of its curious battery design.

Pricing

The Metabo HPT 12V impact driver, kitted with two batteries and a charger, retails for $99.97. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty on the tool and a 2-year limited battery warranty. This is one of the better warranty packages out there, and between its price, design, and performance, it earns a joint 3rd-place finish for value.

The Bottom Line

The question nearly every manufacturer is asking is whether it’s worth continuing to develop their 12V lines. Metabo HPT can easily upgrade this model with a brushless motor and a few bells and whistles. With their focus on the new MultiVolt platform and 18V tools getting more compact, I wouldn’t hold your breath.

If you really just need an inexpensive impact driver that can handle light-duty tasks around the garage and house, this tool is a good one to have on hand, especially since it comes with a lifetime warranty. However, you need to look at other brands if you want the best top-to-bottom performance in the 12V class.

Metabo HPT 12V Impact Driver Specifications

• Model: Metabo WH10DFL2
• Power source: 12V
• No Load Speed: 2,700 RPM
• Maximum Torque: 955 in/lbs
• Impact Rate: 3,200 BPM
• Bare Weight: 1.8 lbs
• Weight with Battery: 2.3 lbs
• Length: 5.9″
• Height: 7.3″
• Warranty: Lifetime, 2 years on battery
• Price: $72.79