Installing drywall successfully like a pro will only take a fraction of the time as long as you have got a knack for DIY projects and the best drywall tools in your arsenal. Hanging drywall by yourself during remodelling or home renovation projects will save you a lot of bucks.
You will need a few specialized tools and several non-specialized tools to finish the job with professional-like flare.
Spending money on these tools is a one-time investment that will reward you for a long time as many of these items come in handy for a variety of other DIY assignments too.
It is no brainer to know that finding a well-built tool without breaking a bank can be a nerve-racking ordeal. And if you add multiple tools to your to-buy list, the stress level is off the charts. We want to save you from this tribulation that’s why we took the pains of collecting necessary information on almost all the tools that you will need for your drywall work. Proceed to know what you will need to get this show on the road.
Table of Contents
Top Drywall Tools Comparison Table
No. | Preview | Product | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |  | DEWALT DCK263D2 | Weight: 2 Pounds Dimension: 15.81 x 16.06 x 11.81 inches | |
2 |  | WEN 6369 | Weight: 9.2 pounds Dimension: 58.75 x 10 x 15.75 inches | |
3 |  | Buddy Tools CIXISHUJU-0112-A195 | Weight: 3.74 pounds Dimension: 20.9 x 7 x 5.9 inches | |
4 |  | Calculated Industries 8105 | Weight: 1 pounds Dimension: 10.25 x 4.75 x 1.25 inches | |
5 |  | DEWALT DW660 | Weight: 3.5 pounds Dimension: 11.5 x 5.62 x 3.5 inches | |
6 |  | Klein Tools 31737 | Weight: 8.6 Ounces Dimension: 1.45 x 1.74 x 11.87 inches | |
7 |  | Wagner Spraytech 520000 | Weight: 2.75 pounds Dimension: 9.5 x 13 x 11.6 inches | |
8 |  | AJC MWT-005-MH | Weight: 1.68 pounds Dimension: 6.5 x 2 x 13.5 inches | |
9 |  | Johnson Level & Tool JTS1200 | Weight: 3 pounds Dimension: 0.56 x 22 x 48.75 inches | |
10 |  | Black+Decker LDX120PK | Weight: 4 pounds Dimension: 19.5 x 3.63 x 13.63 inches |
1. DEWALT DCK263D2: Best Drywall Screw Gun & Cut-out Tool Kit
This drywall tool combo kit by Dewalt is indispensable if you want precision in the installation of drywall without work fatigue. The combo contains a screw gun and a cut-out, both run by a powerful brushless motor with a longer runtime.
The screw gun is better than some of the competition because it gives you high torque and control for speedy completion of a wide range of applications. Another deal-sealing factor is the cordless design with superb ergonomics.
Handling fragile drywall seems like a breeze when you don’t feel fatigued, and that’s what this unit promises. The cordless tool feels so comfortable in the hand that you could drive screws after screws flush to the desired depths for a longer period and still not feel an ounce of strain in your arm and hand.
You will witness similar superior craftsmanship in the cut-out tool. This tool is going to stay in your arsenal for a long time because the unit has a dust-sealed switch, promoting a longer lifespan.
Its brushless motor’s ability to offer 26,000 RPM speed is a declaration of its high power. This suggests that whether you have to deliver cuts in drywall, ceiling tiles, plywood or other such projects, the process will be swift, accurate and tireless. The final deal-sealing factor is the built-in LED lights in both tools to illuminate the tight corners to promote accuracy. Also, both units feature belt hooks for portability purpose.
Pros
- Combo kit contains a screw gun and a cut-out tool.
- Brushless motor offers maximum speed and longer runtime.
- 26,000 rpm boasts of speedy cutting in drywall, ceiling tiles, plywood etc.
- Superior ergonomics to reduce fatigue.
- Built-in belt hooks and LED lights to enhance performance and user’s convenience.
- Essential accessories included.
Cons
- Placement of the forward/reverse switch needs improvement.
- The tool makes some vibrations.
Bottom line
Dewalt Max XR Combo Kit is a great investment for the installation and cutting of drywall. The screw gun and cut-out tool both house powerful brushless motors to perform a variety of jobs with accuracy and speed.
2. WEN 6369: Best Variable Speed Drywall Sander
A simple description: value and efficiency. Following its legacy, this drywall sander by brand WEN is also low-costing. But where it outshines the traditional cheap sanders is a powerful motor and several nifty features.
As you might have guessed, it is an electric sander run by a 5-amp motor delivering a speed of up to 1500 rpm. This variable speed adjustment (600-1500 rpm) not only enhances precision but also keeps the power consumption under control.
Changing sandpaper is easy, it becomes easiest with this one because it employs a hook-and-loop base pad. More impressively, it comes with multiple sanding discs.
It is an anomaly among typical low-priced sanders due to the ease and convenience it brings to your worksite. Clean-up is the least attractive part of the job. Lucky for you that this equipment removes that bothersome part from the equation by adding an automatic dust removal system. Combine it with a 15ft large hose, and you get comfort and flexibility in abundance to finish the job with ease.
Although the overall build quality is not top-of-the-line, you get a remarkable 2-year warranty to reinstate your trust in the product.
Pros
- 5-amp electric motor.
- 15ft long hose offers flexibility.
- Variable speed adjustments.
- Hook-and-loop base pad makes the process of changing sandpaper extremely easy.
- Automatic dust removal mechanism promotes convenience.
- Equipped with multiple sanding discs.
- 2-year warranty.
Cons
- Construction is of average quality.
- Machine wobbles and jumps a bit while running.
Bottom line
Whether it is a single room or an entire house, this machine will give you a smooth finish, thanks to its multiple speed adjustments. The build quality is average, but the integration of an automatic dust removal mechanism along with a super long hose enables it to work better than your expectations.
3. Buddy Tools CIXISHUJU-0112-A195: Best DIY Drywall Tool Kit
Buddy tools have combined a set of four awesome tools – taping tool, drywall scoop, compound mixer and an electrical box locator – to make drywall finishing less intimidating and time-consuming for DIYers. The fact that the package entails an economical price makes it an even more enticing choice.
Taping drywall looks like a child’s play with this sheetrock TapeBuddy. Its heavy-duty plastic is immune to rusting, and an even coat of compound will smoothly join the adjacent drywall sheets to prevent cracks and cover seams.
You will love the scoop more. Its curved blade helps you take a significant amount of mud out of a bucket in a single scoop; when scraped in a downward motion, it cleans the bucket as smoothly as if wiped with a wiper.
You witness the same craftsmanship genius in the mixing tool. With its smooth surface, not only it becomes easier to stir and mix drywall compound, paint and epoxy coatings, but the flat design is also hassle-free to clean and doesn’t leave indentations on buckets like those metal mixers.
The last and equally handy component, the electrical box locator, is a final push to help you make your mind. The Mark N Guard electrical box locator wipes out some major problems. No more incorrect drywall cutting, no damage to the wires. Just insert the unit in an electrical outlet, and its pointy tip will pierce through the drywall, giving you the exact position of the box’s center. Cutting around the box is easy peasy now.
Pros
- Constructed from heavy-duty plastic.
- Set of 4 handy tools.
- Curved blade of Scoop N Scrape can scoop a large quantity of material and cleans bucket without gouging it.
- Mixing tool can easily stir a variety of materials.
- Electrical box locator promises to save time and money.
- Inexpensive.
Cons
- Needs minor improvements.
- Some accessories seem a bit flimsy.
Bottom line
This drywall tool kit is not only extremely cost-effective but also capable of making the process of drywall application super duper easy, especially if you’re a novice and DIYer. Although some accessories seem a bit cheap, their utility and user-friendliness are unquestionable.
4. Calculated Industries 8105: Best Electrical Box Cutout Tool
Ughh…calculations and measurements? We know not everyone enjoys measurements of drywall cutouts for electrical boxes. These error-prone measurements can cost you money and extra time on making repairs to correct the wrong cuts, not to mention cause you helluva frustration in the process. Well, you can say goodbye to this unpleasant part during drywall installation by purchasing this electrical box cutout tool from Calculated Industries.
The package contains 3 Target magnets securely placed inside a rugged case.
All you have to do is place a target magnet inside the electrical box, hang the drywall in place and drag the locator magnet on it. The powerful locator magnet will quickly align with the hidden magnet, giving you an exact spot of the electric box.
Now, take a marker to outline the box and Bingo! That’s how easily you make precise cutouts without taking measurements or making frustrating and costly mistakes. As icing on the cake, it works perfectly on various materials such as drywall, sheetrock, plywood, panelling, cement board, slate etc.
The deal is very affordable. Moreover, even if it’s your first attempt at drywall application, the result will be as accurate and fine as done by a professional. Both these factors are kryptonite for passionate DIYers.
Pros
- Affordable.
- 3 powerful rare earth-magnets enclosed in a rugged box.
- Magnets accurately find each other through drywall to eliminate errored measurements.
- Boast of accurate cutouts in a snap without requiring measurements.
- Best for remodelers and DIYers.
Cons
- Magnets are a bit large.
- Arrows on the magnet boxes aren’t obvious.
Bottom line
This is a simple tool that works wonders during the refurbishing of a house or remodelling of any other building. These powerful magnets eliminate errors in cutouts for electrical boxes plus make the whole drywall installation process much faster and easier, especially for DIYers.
5. DEWALT DW660: Best Rotary Saw
Dewalt Rotary Saw is the best cut-out tool because it carries all the right elements to seize the throne: durable, powerful and efficient. No wonder it is the most preferred choice among handymen and professionals.
It comes with several accessories to help you handle a large number of projects with ease and swiftness. The unit is quite small in size. Carpenters and DIYers like this fact because it enables them to easily carry it to different places, not to mention conveniently store it after use.
It is an epic example of a big blast in a small body. How? Irrespective of compact construction, the unit houses a powerful motor. The fact that it delivers 30,000 RPM is self-explanatory about its power. Do you know what else is self-explanatory? Try it on drywall, plywood, tiles or glass, the material will be flawlessly cut without a single hiccup.
In the case of a hiccup or emergency, you can easily access the on/off switch to shut it off to avoid damage. Dewalt has gone one step further to avoid damage by making the switch dust-seal. By doing so, it reduces dust ingestion to keep it functional for a longer time.
The last surprising feature is that despite housing a durable construction and beastly-powered engine, the tool is still very lightweight which makes it ideal for prolonged use. Fatigue? What fatigue? The slim build eliminates this unpleasant part from your work equation.
Pros
- Durable.
- Slim and lightweight body is ideal for longer use.
- Motor has 30,000 rpm to cut drywall, plywood, tiles, glass with ease and swiftness.
- Dust-seal switch prevents emergency.
- Comes equipped with accessories to suit a variety of projects.
Cons
- The bit is of a cheaper quality.
- Its vent blows dust on one’s face.
Bottom line
Dewalt Rotary Saw is considered one of the best and the most powerful drywall tools available in the market. Its high-performance engine and slim body make it a go-to choice for contractors and carpenters, allowing them to work for a prolonged time to finish lengthy projects faster.
6. Klein Tools 31737: Best Budget Drywall Tool
A jab saw is indispensable for cutting through drywall, and this one by Klein Tools is an indispensable option if you want the best of the best for your DIY arsenal. Its carbon steel blade – though a bit shorter than the standard 6-inch length – exhibits strength and sturdiness to ensure it will neither bend nor break when cutting through drywall, even when you strike the perpendicular end of the handle with a hammer or a rubber mallet.
Its triple ground teeth can undoubtedly be called the best feature of its entire construction because no matter whether you’re pushing the tool or pulling it, it cuts with equal swiftness and ease – completing the task faster than expected.
More impressively, the blade can either be fully opened or at a 125-degree angle to allow you to make cuts accordingly. The locking mechanism will ensure the blade firmly stays in the desired position to avoid disruption during work.
Besides, the handle comes with a cushioned pad to allow a comfortable palming of the tool. Since it is a folding saw, the blade can be fully sheath inside the handle to avoid piercing the tool pouch. It will also prevent the blade from getting damaged.
Pros
- Folding jab saw with a sturdy carbon steel blade.
- Triple ground teeth cut with ease in both directions, pulling and pushing motion.
- Locking mechanism to lock the blade at 180-degree or 125-degree for convenient use.
- Cushioned handle-end offers comfortable palming.
Cons
- Fragile tip is prone to breakage.
- It can easily cut fingers when closing the blade.
Bottom line
This jab saw is highly recommended for making precision cuts or cutting through drywall. The built-in locking mechanism and folding feature coupled with an anti-slip cushioned handle make it a worth-buying tool for professional use.
7. Wagner Spraytech 520000: Best Corded Texture Paint Sprayer
We know how challenging and tiring it is to apply texture paint on a wall. That’s why we are introducing the best texture paint sprayer here, Wagner Spraytech 0520000. The reason it is considered a great choice is its ability to turn that hard task – textured paint finishing – into an easy-peasy activity.
This paint sprayer doesn’t need the hassle of an air compressor or air hose because it employs a built-in powerful air turbine to sprout paint. Much to your relief, it features a 1-gallon hopper with adjustable positions. Meaning, you will have sufficient supply to get the job done and the alterable positions will keep the unit stabilized for comfortable handling.
More impressively, it comes with three different but easily interchangeable nozzles to give you the freedom to choose from acoustical popcorn, knockdown and orange peel-style texture, depending on the kind of paint job and finishing you are planning to get done.
Another telltale sign of its user-friendliness is the use of Lock-n-Go Technology. This feature enables you to lock various parts in place and disassemble them after use. The little piece of technology makes your life a helluva lot easier as cleaning and putting together of the tool has been reduced to just a matter of a few minutes.
Pros
- Well-built.
- Affordable.
- Built-in powerful air turbine.
- User-friendly design makes the application of texture paint super easy.
- Multiple nozzles for the desired finishing.
- Built-in locking mechanism for convenient assembling and cleaning.
Cons
- A bit bulky for single-hand use.
- The switch on the motor is hard to reach.
Bottom line
Considering the good quality, in-built powerful air turbine, easy cleanup and assembling and affordable price, you’re getting the best texture sprayer for the money. Its multiple nozzles with variable flow trigger enable you to coat walls, ceiling and other hard surfaces with the desired textured finishing without fatigue.
8. AJC MWT-005-MH: Best Magnet Roofing Hatchet
When you ask for one of the most reliable roofing hammers capable of long-lasting performance on any job, we take it as a code name for AJC MWT-005-MH. Having a tough wooden and steel built, it guarantees remarkable durability. On top of that, the tool has a built-in utility blade, nail claw and adjustable shingle gauge. More importantly, the striker end of the hatchet is magnetic.
Taking all of this into account tells you that whether you have to pound nails in respective slots, pull out nails or staples, cut shingles or under-layers, the rock-solid tool is capable of doing it all, better than some other rivalling units. Magnetic striking face means better nail traction, which in return means no more dropping nails or accidental smashing of your thumb.
The sliding gauge is also replaceable, but you’ll have a tough time finding the right replacement.
Although the construction is tough and sturdy, the tool still feels lighter in weight – weighing 1.68lbs – as compared to some other competing models available in the market. So holding it for a relatively long time to finish a job in one bout will not fatigue you much.
Pros
- Long-lasting build.
- Magnetic striking face provides better nail traction to avoid the hassle.
- Built-in utility blade, nail puller and adjustable gauge.
- Lightweight.
- Multi-purpose tool.
Cons
- Replacement components are hard to find.
- Not suitable for driving concrete nails.
- A bit pricey.
Bottom line
AJC MWT-005-MH is one of the most reliable hammers for hand caps, thanks to its rock-solid construction. The magnetic striking end coupled with other built-in components enables you to perform several jobs related to roofing a lot faster than your anticipated time.
9. Johnson Level & Tool JTS1200: Best Top Rated Drywall Tool
Can you guess what is waiting for you here? A little hint: it is Johnson Level & Tool’s drywall t-square (JTS1200). Yeah, you got it right! Durability and user’s convenience; the name was a dead giveaway, wasn’t it?
Built from heavy-duty aluminium with a unique four-rivet construction to join the head with the vertical piece indicates that the tool is extremely durable and capable of enduring heavy applications without deforming/bending. This also indicates that the tool will retain its square shape to ensure you never have to worry about accuracy while cutting the drywall sheet or plywood.
Besides, from top to toe, the whole body comes with anodized finishing to not only give it a sleek and lustrous look but also make it rust-proof.
We said super durable, not bulky. Extruded aluminium body coupled with a 1/8” blade thickness allows you to hold it in a perfect grip.
Do you want more? The entire body is decorated with screened graduations. The markings are itched on the body in black to make sure you can easily read them, eliminating error in measurements.
Pros
- Durable and rust-proof.
- Four-rivet construction keeps the square shape to maintain accuracy.
- Blade thickness offers a comfortable grip.
- Screened graduation for easy readability of markings.
- 1-year warranty.
Cons
- Its long body bends in the middle after a few years of use.
- Packaging issues.
Bottom line
Like its cousins, the Johnson JTS1200 t-square is also solidly built coupled with special rivet construction and a thick blade to retain its square shape. This unquestionable accuracy makes it ideal for DIY drywalling and woodworking.
10. Black+Decker LDX120PK: Best Drywall Tools Overall (Our Top Pick)
This toolkit by famous Black+Decker has nearly everything needed to carry out a Do-It-Yourself home repair or decor project with the aplomb of a professional. Manufacturers have added a sturdy carrying bag to contain all 68 items such as LDX 120 drill, lithium-ion battery, pliers, screwdrivers, hammer, wrench, utility knife, hole saws with mandrel, screwdriver bits, drilling bits, spade bits and a magnetic bit holder for easy storage and portability. Now, look at the price and tell me, isn’t this a steal deal?
The LDX120PK drill is hands-down the crown jewel of this entire kit for several reasons. First, the compact and lightweight structure enables you to easily sneak it into narrow corners. With a built-in LED light, narrow or broad, the work surface will be adequately illuminated to lend precision and finesse to your assignments.
Another amazing addition is the integration of an 11-position clutch to avoid stripping and overdriving screws. This, in return, saves your work from getting ruined whether it’s of wood, plastic or metal. If you’re still indecisive, the battery will do the trick for you. The lithium-ion battery not only charges faster than others but also preserves power between uses to last up to 18 months. Long and testing projects? Bring them on! This beast isn’t going to cower away.
Pros
- Rugged and lightweight build.
- 11-position clutch to suit the material you’re drilling.
- Powerful lithium-ion battery holds a charge for a very long period.
- Comes with a long list of handy components.
- Great value deal.
Cons
- Chuck becomes loose.
- Bits included are made only for wood.
Bottom line
This toolkit from Black+Decker has several useful tools at a pocket-friendly to enable passionate DIYers to accomplish any home repair and decor project without breaking a bank. The package also contains a carrying bag to keep the items organised to avoid aggravation, especially if you’re an OCD.
Buyer’s Guide – Buying the Best Drywall Tools in 2021
Installation of drywall will seem less of a challenge if you’ve got the right set of tools at hand. In this buying guide, we will point out those items that are indispensable for successful project completion.
Drywall T-Square
A drywall t-square metric is a square, longer than a regular t-square, with a 48-inch length to slice the entire width of a sheet of drywall. The head of the square precisely aligns with the edge of the drywall to ensure accuracy. Its hash marks will let you outline the area where you want to cut the drywall. It is expensive, but the fact that it can also be used for other purposes like plywood or plasterboard is a consolation.
Taping Tool
A taping knife is a specialized drywall tool because it is different from a regular putty knife. It has a wide blade that is good for spreading a large quantity of joint compound to join adjacent drywall sheets securely to prevent cracks and gaps. You can also use it to apply a coat of mud over a nail or screw indentation to give your project a smooth look.
Cordless Drill for Fastening
You will need a ruggedly-built cordless drill for drilling screws in the material during the hanging of drywall. The use of the old-school method of using hammer and nails is tedious and time-consuming, not to mention lacks the finesse and neatness that you want to achieve.
A 12V drill will be sufficient for regular drywall work. But, if you are planning heavy-duty projects, an 18V or 20V like that of the Black+Decker LDX120PK drill will do the trick.
It will help you immensely to look for a unit with clutch adjustment to make sure the bit stops when it should stop to avoid stripping or over screwing.
Sander
You need a sander to make drywall’s surface smooth and remove residue that could tarnish its appearance. We prefer a well-built electrical sander instead of a manual sander because the former makes the tedious job of sanding walls and ceilings a cinch. Sanding drywall with a reliable sander like the one by WEN will remove ridges, bumps and dust from drywall to give it a smooth look. The unit with a longer hose will give you extra flexibility to get the job done with ease.
You can also invest in a pole sander if you are planning to undertake a large project, say sanding more than one room.
Jab Saw
A jab saw is another specialised drywall tool that is useful for only one thing: cutting drywall. It is a miniature hand saw with usually a 6-inch blade, pointy tip and serrated teeth. Its tip is pointy enough to easily be pierced through the drywall. The serrated teeth are sturdy enough to make a small square or rounded cuts, such as the one for electrical boxes or recessed lights.
Paint Sprayer
Having a paint sprayer means you will be able to paint a broad surface in less time. Also, a paintbrush or a paint roller will not give you the smoothness and evenness that you witness in the job of a professional, another reason to go for a quality paint sprayer.
A textured paint sprayer like Wagner Spraytech 0520000 comes with a large container and built-in air turbine to coat all walls of a room with a textured paint finish without refilling.
Conclusion
We shave shared in-depth reviews of several handy tools that are useful for an impeccable do-it-yourself installation of drywall. Some might be pricier than others, but their compatibility with a wide range of DIY projects is a consolation.
Fortunate for you, we have given you a buying guide containing all the tools indispensable for a successful DIY drywall hanging project. No more jumping from site to site to gather necessary information about the best drywall tools available in the market. You will find everything right here.
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