More speed, more power, a smaller tool body and some cool extra features puts this driver at the very head of its class. That’s not to say we don’t also love its yellow colleague, but Makita’s tucked in such innovative details into this tool. When we picked it up, it felt lighter and more compact than others we’ve tried out in its power and price range, handling a little better, too, in part because of the really comfortable rubber grip and nicely balanced design. And when we checked the specs, sure enough, it’s a couple ounces lighter and a bit more compact than its nearest competitor. When the battery charged and we popped it on (which, incidentally, is a nice smooth operation), we could have driven screws effortlessly all day: the torque is incredible! We’ll take Makita’s word for it that it maxes at 1,110 inch-pounds of force. Even in the blows-per-minute category, it beats everybody else out at 3,200 bpm, and since it works harder, you can work a little easier. There are no twists or jerks at acceleration, just a clean, smooth speed increase—-very impressive. But on top of the exceptional speed and power, this driver’s got two bright spots: an LED light that illuminates your workpiece and a glow-in the dark rubber bumper that pinpoints the driver in a crawlspace or even up in the rafters if you work longer than the sun does. It’s clearly Makita quality, from the rough-and-tumble tool body and magnesium gear case to the easy-to-access carbon brushes when it’s maintenance time. Makita’s literature says this driver’s made for professionals, and yes, contractors, installers and the like will love it. But we don’t think the do-it-yourselfer should feel intimidated; it would be perfect in the avid DIYer’s shop, too.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste