Vessel Ballgrip Cordless Screwdriver: Which Model Should You Buy?

Vessel's ballgrip cordless screwdriver is one of the most popular tools in our shop. It looks like a classic hand screwdriver, but a small motor drives the screw in, and you finish tightening by hand through the ballgrip. Made in Japan, it charges by USB. If you are new to cordless screwdrivers, read why one earns its place in your toolbox.

Vessel now makes several versions. Here is how they compare.

220USB-1 and 220USB-5: the classic

The original 220USB-1 runs at 280rpm with 2Nm of motor torque, and up to 10Nm by hand. It charges by micro-USB. The 220USB-5 is the same screwdriver with five bits (PH1, 2 × PH2, PH3 and a 6mm slotted bit).

220USB-P1 Plus: three speeds

The 220USB-P1 adds three speed and torque settings (280rpm/1.2Nm, 340rpm/1.6Nm, 400rpm/2.0Nm), so you can go gentle on small electrical terminals and stronger on general fixing. It charges by USB-C and allows up to 12Nm by hand.

220USBC Ballgrip II (2025): most powerful

The 220USBC has up to 3Nm of motor torque, the strongest of the ballgrip models, and up to 12Nm by hand. It charges by USB-C in about 60 minutes and runs for about 40 minutes of continuous use.

220USB-S1EB: high speed

The 220USB-S1EB spins at 1,200rpm, about four times faster than the standard model, but with light 0.4Nm motor torque. It is for running lots of screws in and out quickly, for example in assembly or panel work, with final tightening by hand.

Quick guide

• Best all-rounder: 220USBC (most torque, USB-C)
• Electricians and delicate work: 220USB-P1 (adjustable torque)
• Lots of screws, fast: 220USB-S1EB
• Want a bit set included: 220USB-5

All models take standard 1/4in hex bits. See the whole range in our USB screwdrivers collection, or try one in our Fo Tan shop.