When it comes to power tools, affordability and reliability are often at the top of my list. That’s why I was curious to try out Hyper Tough tools. Whether you’re doing light home repairs or tackling bigger DIY projects, there’s no question that the right tools make all the difference.
The Hyper Tough range, especially their 20V Max Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver, is designed with convenience and performance in mind, without emptying your wallet.
But should you actually consider Hyper Tough tools for your toolkit?
The answer, at least from my experience, is a resounding yes. Let me take you through an honest review, covering what I loved, where I saw room for improvement, and even a few essential maintenance tips.
You might be surprised by just how much value you can get out of these budget-friendly tools.
What I Liked About Hyper Tough Tools?
When I first got my hands on the Hyper Tough 20V Max Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver, I wasn’t expecting much considering the price point.
But from the moment I picked it up, it felt solid—not flimsy like some other low-cost tools I’ve come across.
At 2.6 pounds, it’s lightweight but doesn’t skimp on performance.
One of the standout features for me is the 15+1 torque settings. This adjustability makes it easy to avoid overdriving screws, which is something that tends to happen if you’re not careful.
Whether I was hanging curtains, drilling into hard plaster walls, or assembling furniture, this feature gave me the control I needed.
Another feature I appreciated was the keyless chuck. No need to fiddle around with chuck keys when swapping drill bits—it’s quick and hassle-free, which is important when you’re in the middle of a project. The 3/8-inch size is perfect for most household tasks.
The LED light on this drill? A lifesaver when I had to work in dimly lit areas like the corner of a closet or under the sink. And the lithium-ion battery?
It not only holds a charge well but also charges back up fairly quickly—about 3-4 hours. Compared to older NiCad batteries, I’ve found lithium-ion to be much more efficient and longer-lasting.
Let’s not forget the variable speed trigger. This is something that might get overlooked, but the ability to adjust speed based on the task at hand made all the difference. Whether you’re slowly driving screws or drilling fast into wood, it gives you more control.
Where I Think Hyper Tough Could Improve?
While my overall experience has been positive, there are a couple of things that could be better.
First off, it’s important to note that this isn’t a heavy-duty drill.
I’ve used it for a range of small to medium jobs around the house, but if you’re looking to take on bigger projects, like framing a house or building a deck, you might find it underpowered.
Additionally, I did find that replacement parts and chargers can be a bit of a hassle to track down. It would be great if Walmart sold the chargers separately. One reviewer mentioned having to buy several units just because chargers weren’t readily available.
That’s something worth considering if you’re investing in a Hyper Tough tool.
Another area where Hyper Tough could improve is the ergonomics. The drill feels fine for short tasks, but during extended use, I found my hand cramping up. A more cushioned grip could make a big difference here.
Maintenance Tips For Longevity
Taking care of your tools, especially budget ones, can ensure they last for years. Here are a few maintenance tips that have helped me keep my Hyper Tough drill in great shape:
- Keep it clean: After every use, I make sure to wipe down my drill with a dry cloth to remove any dust or debris. This prevents dirt from accumulating in the moving parts.
- Store it properly: Don’t leave your drill lying around in a damp garage or basement. Moisture can cause rust and degrade the battery. I always store mine in a dry, cool place and make sure the battery is disconnected.
- Charge smart: Avoid letting the battery fully drain before charging. Lithium-ion batteries perform better and last longer when they’re kept between 20% and 80% charged. I make it a habit to recharge the drill after every project.
- Lubricate the chuck: Every few months, I add a drop of machine oil to the chuck to ensure it keeps rotating smoothly. This small step can prevent it from jamming over time.
- Check the battery terminals: Clean the battery terminals with a dry cloth to maintain a good connection between the battery and the drill.
By following these simple steps, I’ve managed to keep my Hyper Tough drill working like new, even after several months of use.
Hyper Tough Vs. Other Brands: How Does It Stack Up?
So, how does Hyper Tough compare to other brands in the same price range, like Black & Decker or Ryobi?
Well, I’ve used both Black & Decker and Ryobi in the past, and here’s my take:
- Price: Hyper Tough tools are generally more affordable than both Ryobi and Black & Decker, especially when you factor in sales at Walmart. For a casual DIYer or someone just building their toolkit, this is a huge advantage.
- Battery life: When it comes to battery life, I’ve found that Ryobi tools tend to last longer between charges, but Hyper Tough isn’t far behind. Plus, considering the price, the Hyper Tough battery performs admirably. Black & Decker’s batteries seem to drain faster in comparison.
- Durability: Ryobi tools are often seen as more durable, and I can confirm this from my own experience. Hyper Tough is great for light to moderate use, but if you need something that can take a bit of a beating, you might want to look at Ryobi.
- Power: In terms of raw power, Hyper Tough and Black & Decker are pretty similar. Ryobi does edge out both in this department, especially if you’re looking at their higher-end models. However, for typical home use, Hyper Tough holds its own.
Overall, I’d say Hyper Tough is the best choice if you’re on a budget and don’t need heavy-duty performance. Ryobi and Black & Decker are solid choices too, but they come at a higher price point without necessarily offering a significant improvement for light to moderate DIY work.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Hyper Tough is Walmart’s in-house brand. They offer a range of affordable hand tools, power tools, and accessories targeted primarily at DIYers and homeowners who need reliable tools for everyday use.
Hyper Tough tools are manufactured by a company called Test Rite Tools, which supplies them exclusively to Walmart. This partnership allows Walmart to offer affordable pricing without sacrificing too much on quality.
Yes, Hyper Tough does make an impact wrench. It’s part of their expanding range of power tools aimed at the DIY market. The Hyper Tough 20V Max Cordless Impact Wrench, for example, is designed to handle automotive and heavy-duty projects with ease, providing a good balance between power and affordability.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy Hyper Tough?
If you’re like me and do a lot of home improvement projects, Hyper Tough tools are a solid investment, especially if you’re on a budget. The 20V Max Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver, in particular, is a versatile tool that can handle most household tasks with ease.
Sure, it’s not going to replace professional-grade tools, but for everyday jobs, it offers excellent value for money.
The build quality is better than you’d expect at this price, and while it may lack the long-term durability of more expensive brands like Ryobi, it more than makes up for it in affordability and ease of use.
So, should you buy Hyper Tough tools?
Absolutely—especially if you’re looking for dependable, affordable tools to handle everyday tasks around the house. I’ve been more than satisfied with my Hyper Tough drill, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone looking for quality on a budget.