Whether assembling a cabinet, renovating an apartment, or tinkering in the basement, sooner or later every DIY enthusiast asks themselves the question: Should I use hand tools or power tools? Both options have their advantages and disadvantages.

🔧 Hand tools – Simple, proven and precise
Hand tools are the classics among tools. Screwdrivers, hammers, handsaws, and files – they don't require electricity, are easy to handle, and give you complete control while working.

Advantages:

• Ideal for precise work

• Cheap to buy

• Hardly any maintenance required

• Ready for immediate use, independent of the power grid

Disadvantages:

• Requires more strength and patience

• Often tedious for large projects

• Quickly reaches its limits with hard materials

🔌 Power tools – Fast, powerful and efficient
Drills, cordless screwdrivers or sanders – power tools do the hard work and make many tasks much easier.

Advantages:

• Saves time and energy

• Ideal for large projects

• Versatile thanks to interchangeable attachments

• Consistent and powerful working method

Disadvantages:

• More expensive to purchase

• Maintenance effort (especially batteries)

• Often heavier and louder

• Power dependent

🧰 Starter package: These are the tools you should definitely have

Hand tools – basic equipment for beginners

You should definitely own these tools. They're versatile and ideal for small repairs or everyday projects:

• Phillips and slotted screwdrivers in various sizes

• Hammer (e.g. a locksmith's hammer)

• Tape measure or folding rule

• spirit level

• cutter knife

• Combination pliers and side cutters

• Allen key set (e.g. for furniture)

• Hand saw for wood

• File for metal or edge processing

Power tools – basic set for beginners

If you work regularly or plan larger projects, these tools are particularly helpful:

• Cordless screwdriver with bit set

• Impact drill for masonry or ceilings

• Multifunctional device (e.g. for sawing, grinding or cutting)

• Orbital sander or eccentric sander for smooth surfaces

• Extension cable or multiple socket

• Replacement battery and suitable charger for battery-operated devices

Tip: When it comes to power tools, it's worth investing in quality – they last longer, work more reliably, and are simply more fun to use.

🧱 Which tools are worthwhile for what?

Whether you work better with hand or power tools depends on the project:
Minor repairs or spontaneous jobs? → Hand tools are usually sufficient.
Larger projects with many consistent work steps? → Power tools save time and effort.
No power connection at the job site? → Hand tools offer more flexibility.

Conclusion: It’s all about the mix

It's not about which tool is "better"—it's about which one is better suited to your project. A mix of both is best:
A solid basic set of hand tools for everyday use and a few power tools for larger or frequent jobs.

Discover our hand and power tools – ideal for your next project.