Hoto put a lo-fi torque display on its new cordless screwdriver

Hoto’s latest electric screwdriver introduces a couple of novel usability improvements. Now, you’ll find a pixelated display on the business end of the driver showing details like its remaining battery life, while a multi-function button lets you adjust its speed and switch directions with just one finger.

The new PixelDrive features a similarly sleek design as the company’s previous electric drivers. But the added screen — and added power — means it’s also a bit larger than the company’s other offerings. Hoto’s Electric Precision Screwdriver is much thinner by comparison. The company’s 3.6V Electric Screwdriver Kit is a bit stubbier, but its torque maxes out at 0.2Nm and 4Nm, respectively. The PixelDrive offers up to 6Nm of torque, adjustable through six different settings that are conveniently displayed on its screen.

That’s a welcome step-up, but at $79.99 the PixelDrive is also Hoto’s priciest rechargeable screwdriver to date. For an extra $10 you can upgrade to Hoto’s $89.99 Cordless Brushless Electric Drill which offers up to 30Nm of torque, 30 variable power settings, and the ability to make holes, too. It’s not as compact as the PixelDrive but it’s potentially more versatile if your assembly needs are more demanding than building a PC or Ikea furniture.

Pressing lightly on the PixelDrive’s button sets the driver’s speed to 80RPM, while a firm press boosts it to 200RPM. It features the same 2,000mAh battery as you’ll find in Hoto’s drill, but the company doesn’t specify how many screws you can drive before it needs a charge. There’s also an LED ring light at the top of the screwdriver to illuminate what you’re working on.

You won’t find any built-in storage for bits on the PixelDrive, but Hoto includes a cylinder accessory that separates into three sections that can hold a total of 30 bits, including options with extended lengths that can be useful for accessing screws hidden in deeper recesses.