HOTO Mini cordless screwdriver for 25,17€/$28.99: Design over function?

From HOTO we now already know the rangefinder and the hot glue gun. Now there is the electric HOTO Mini cordless screwdriver, which comes in a modern design and with USB-C charging port, just like previous devices from HOTO. However, the scope of delivery raises questions because the screwdriver only comes with one bit. Classic case of form over function?

• HOTO Mini cordless screwdriver
  • at AliExpress for 25,17€/$28.99

Colorful & Compact

One thing you can’t accuse HOTO of, they know how to design chic devices. The HOTO Mini is available in three colors: green, blue and red.

Other than a switch and a white HOTO logo, we don’t find too much on the cylinder-shaped cordless screwdriver. It measures 169 mm long and 34 mm wide, while weighing just 185 g.

USB-C charging port is a must for HOTO

On the bottom, we find an almost HOTO typical USB-C charging port, which allows you to charge the 1500 mAh battery within 150 minutes. This battery is supposed to be sufficient for 200 screwing processes, after which it has to go back to the wall socket. Of course, the whole thing always depends on the material you are screwing the screw into or out of.

The small cordless screwdriver should be able to apply 3 Nm of force. The screwdriver rotates at 220 rpm without load. A PH2 bit is used, which is unfortunately the only one included. Although there is an attachment for 6.3 mm bits, you are not really flexible here.

Assessment

I actually think the HOTO brand is interesting, as they said they were responsible for several Xiaomi gadgets in the past and are now operating in its ecosystem. The products all look great, but here they just forgot a bit about function. Looking at the Xiaomi Mijia screwdriver, I wouldn’t be surprised if this is one of HOTO’s former projects. Although they have improved it, they have greatly reduced the number of bits.

I’m all for the concept that tools can also look fancy, but the function shouldn’t be neglected. What do you think of the electric mini screwdriver?