We Made More Than 500 Holes To Find The Best Cordless Drills

Many of today’s tools run on powerful, long-lasting batteries, and none are more popular than cordless drills. Cordless tools offer flexibility and freedom of movement that make it easier and more enjoyable to tackle all sorts of improvement projects. The popularity of cordless electric drills has brought numerous models to the market, so we wanted to know if our readers were getting what they were paying for. In our search for the top contenders, we tested 13 highly rated models compatible with different project types, ranging from heavy-duty hammer drills to lightweight drill/drivers. 

We didn’t pull any punches in our tests—we pushed each tool to its limit and awarded points based on quality, torque, ease of use, and sheer power. We tested each function on every drill to determine the best use for each make and model. Our favorite cordless drill for everyday use was the Bosch GSB18V-65B12 18-volt ½-inch hammer drill driver. Its size and maneuverability make it easy for any user to handle, and it delivered excellent performance through the full range of testing scenarios. But if you need a good cordless drill that will hold up to constant heavy-duty work, or a smaller one that is more suitable for crafting, this guide has you covered. Keep reading to learn how to navigate the options from the cordless drill industry and to find out why each of the following models earned a spot in this lineup.

1. BEST OVERALL: DeWalt DCD771C2 20V MAX Compact Drill/Driver Kit
2. RUNNER-UP: Makita FD07R1 12V Brushless Cordless Driver-Drill Kit
3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Black+Decker LDX120C 20V MAX Cordless Drill/Driver
4. UPGRADE PICK: DeWalt DCK299M2 20V MAX Hammerdrill & Impact Driver
5. BEST LIGHT-DUTY: Makita DF012DSE 7.2V Cordless Driver-Drill Kit 
6. BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Milwaukee 2804-20 M18 FUEL ½-Inch Hammer Drill/Driver
7. MOST VERSATILE: Bosch GSR12V-300FCB22 12V MAX Chameleon Drill/Driver
8. BEST COMPACT: Bosch PS31-2A 12V MAX ⅜-Inch Drill/Driver Kit
9. BEST COMBINATION KIT: Milwaukee 2801-22CT M18 Compact Drill Driver Kit
10. ALSO CONSIDER: DeWalt DCD701F2 XTREME 12V MAX Drill/Driver Kit

Cordless Drills Comparison

Our Top Picks

The following cordless drills represent many of the top brands, which are known for reliability and value, and we tested each drill on the list. We determined the extent of each tool’s power, whether it could withstand repeated use, its battery life, and the drill’s overall quality. Since some of the following drills are better suited to some tasks than others, we’ve defined the best use for each based on our extensive hands-on testing. Keep reading to find out how each drill performed. 

Best Overall

Bosch GSB18V-65B12 18V ½-Inch Hammer Drill/Driver

Buy at Amazon Buy at Acme Toools

What We Like

• Versatile construction has a ½-inch chuck, which accepts most screw and drill bits
• 1.3Ah rechargeable lithium-ion battery included; portable and lightweight construction
• Battery charger and contractor carry bag included; keeps all components organized

What We Don’t Like

• Battery capacity is low, but it can be upgraded separately

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Product Specs

• Voltage: 20V
• Weight: 3.6 pounds (without battery)
• Speed: Up to 1,500 revolutions per minute (rpm)

This Bob Vila Approved product carries our brand’s highest level of recommendation.

Bob Vila Approved recognizes the household and DIY products that impressed us most in our real-world testing and that exemplify core values of the Bob Vila brand, including craftsmanship, innovation, and value for the dollar. Winners of this designation come recommended by our professional review team and are personally approved by Bob Vila.

Our Ratings

For our top pick, we chose a general-purpose drill/driver that was sturdy and lightweight for extended daily use, and strong enough for occasional heavy-duty work. We awarded the Bosch GSB18V-65B12 Best Overall Cordless Drill because of its compact build and outstanding performance in the widest range of drilling and driving tasks. The kit includes the drill with belt hook pre-installed, a 2.0 amp-hour battery, charger, and tool bag. 

This pro-quality cordless drill was more compact and weighed less than the other 18-volt cordless drills we tested. The size and weight made it more comfortable to use and easier to maneuver in confined workspaces. Pound-for-pound, it was stronger than the competition, too. The 575 inch-pounds of maximum torque was adequate for drilling hardened steel, concrete, and brick without binding, and driving heavy-duty construction screws and lag bolts with ease. 

For the drilling test, we found it unnecessary to use hammer drill mode, even in concrete and brick. This drill had no problem doing the job at low speed with a good amount of downward pressure. However, as the bit penetrated about an inch into the material, the straight shank began to slip in the drill chuck. After re-tightening, we were able to complete the hole, but the same thing happened 3 different times during testing. So even though this drill has ample power to do the job, it may be best to use 3-flat shanks for the most secure hold.

What our tester says: “I really liked how the new Bosch hammer drill/driver felt—light, comfortable, and capable. In terms of comfort, as well as speed and torque, I preferred it over all of the other drills that I tested.”—Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Bosch cordless drill at Amazon or Acme Tools. 

Runner-Up

Makita FD07R1 12V Brushless Cordless Driver-Drill Kit

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What We Like

• Built-in 20-setting adjustable clutch to fine-tune torque as needed
• 2 batteries included, one to run tool while the other charges
• Brushless motor for long-lasting power and battery life; suitable for DIYers as well as pros

What We Don’t Like

• Pricier than competitive models that have similar power and features

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Product Specs

• Voltage: 12V
• Weight: 2.3 pounds (with battery)
• Speed: Up to 1,500 rpm

Our Ratings

We discovered that we didn’t have to spend a lot of money to get a powerful battery-powered drill. Few brands have a better reputation for balancing quality and value than Black+Decker, and their 20V MAX cordless drill is a great example. 

After charging the battery, we started with a hole-saw bit and drilled 2-inch holes in pine. The Black+Decker provided nearly as much power as the more expensive drills in this lineup, but it didn’t have quite as much torque when we exerted a lot of pressure. Not to worry—it’s not designed for heavy-duty drilling. It’s intended for basic around-the-house drilling and driving, and it does that exceptionally well. We tried a variety of bits, and the Black+Decker handled all but the largest auger bit. The battery went out around the 25-minute mark, so we paused to recharge. 

With the battery charged again, we switched to driver mode and inserted the screwdriver bit stored on the back of the tool’s handle. The drill offers an 11-setting clutch, which allowed us to tweak the drill’s torque sensitivity when inserting screws. 

While this drill will not be powerful enough for a professional framer, it has ample power for many jobs around the home and yard, yet the price is among the lowest on the market. Even though the brush motor helps keep the cost down, Black+Decker didn’t skimp on features in this lightweight, ergonomic drill. An LED work light facilitates jobs in dark corners, and a 1.5 Ah battery and a charger complete the kit.

Get the Black+Decker cordless drill at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., The Home Depot, Walmart, or Black+Decker.

Best Bang for the Buck

Black+Decker LDX120C 20V MAX Cordless Drill/Driver

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What We Like

• ⅜-inch keyless chuck for quick, easy bit changes; ideal for use on job sites
• Variable-speed trigger; 11 clutch settings to tweak torque for different tasks
• Built-in LED light for use in low-light situations or for increased visibility

What We Don’t Like

• Light- to medium-duty drill; not suited for heavy drilling

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Product Specs

• Voltage: 20V
• Weight: 2.7 pounds (without battery)
• Speed: Up to 650 rpm

Our Ratings

If you think that battery tools are incapable of heavy-duty drilling, think again. Equipped with a powerful and efficient brushless motor, the DeWalt DCD1007WW1 produces a whopping 1,530 maximum watts out. One of the more expensive drills in our testing lineup, the rugged build and brawny performance pay back dividends on the investment. This kit includes the ½-inch 3-speed hammer drill, removable side handle, belt hook, 8-amp hour battery, charger, and tool bag.

During testing, we demanded more of this drill, and it did not disappoint. It drilled ½-inch holes in wood faster than any other drill we tested, and had a similar showing in steel, brick, and concrete. When it came to driving, this DeWalt unit drove all of its half-inch lag bolts flush (without a pilot hole), and then finished off those that another drill could only drive halfway. When these initial drilling and driving tests were complete, the battery still showed a full charge. DeWalt claims that it can drill up to 275 holes before depleting the battery.

But this hammer drill offers more than heavy-duty performance. It is also surprisingly maneuverable, thanks in large part to the short motor/chuck length. Although slightly heavier, the DCD1007WW was about an inch shorter than the older DCD996 we had close by for comparison. The squatty build allows it to fit in more confined spaces, and it also gives the tool a more balanced feel while working at different angles. Still, at twice the weight of many 18-volt drills, this big drill is best reserved for the heavy-duty projects that require the added power.

One unique and handy feature this drill offers is an adjustable LED work light. Lots of drills include LEDs that activate when the trigger is squeezed, but this one, located at the base of the handle, can be rotated to three different positions and can be activated independently for up to 20 minutes at a time. The light is brighter than the flashlight on a smartphone, and probably less risky to use on a dimly lit repair job.

What our tester says: “The DeWalt 20-volt hammer drill felt like it could do anything, and the shorter nose allowed it to do quite a bit more than its predecessors. It’s incredibly powerful for a cordless drill, and it held a super strong grip on the bit shaft.”—Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the DeWalt cordless drill at Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Acme Tools. 

Upgrade Pick

DeWalt DCK299M2 20V MAX Hammerdrill & Impact Driver

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What We Like

• Kit comes with a hammer drill and impact driver; included batteries are compatible with both
• Ergonomic nonslip grips for comfort and accuracy while in use
• Includes two 4Ah lithium-ion batteries, a charger, and bag

What We Don’t Like

• Plastic leverage bar for the drill might not hold up

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Product Specs

• Voltage: 20V
• Weight: 4.7 pounds (drill); 2 pounds (impact driver)
• Speed: Up to 2,000 rpm (drill); up to 3,250 rpm (impact driver)

Our Ratings

There are plenty of crafting and home repair projects where a small cordless drill is the best tool for the job. That is where the Milwaukee M12 12-volt drill driver excels. Its lightweight build, comfortable grip, and smooth trigger action belie impressive power for a 12-volt drill. The kit includes the ⅜-inch 2-speed drill driver with belt hook, two 1.5-amp hour batteries, a charger, and a soft-sided carry case.

We really liked the compact size and weight-balanced design of this drill. It felt more like an extension of the hand instead of handling a tool. Moreover, the lightweight build came with surprisingly robust components. The chuck has all-metal components that gripped straight-shaft drill bits as securely as the best ½ inch drills we tested. The motor produced adequate torque to drill into concrete and steel without binding, but doing so required a bit of patience since the top speed in low range is just 400 RPM. The high-speed range goes to 1,500 RPM, but we reserved high speed for drilling wood and other soft materials.

Get the Milwaukee cordless drill at Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, or Global Industrial.

Best Light-Duty

Makita DF012DSE 7.2V Cordless Driver-Drill Kit

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What We Like

• Extremely versatile construction; hinged design to change from pistol grip to straight grip
• 2-speed motor; 21-position clutch for torque control depending on the project
• Built-in LED light for low-light situations and increased visibility

What We Don’t Like

• With just 7.2 volts, this is a light-duty-only drill

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Product Specs

• Voltage: 7.2V
• Weight: 1.2 pounds
• Speed: Up to 650 rpm

Our Ratings

Ryobi has a strong reputation for producing affordable, dependable power tools. The PCL206K2 18-volt ½-inch cordless drill/driver continues that tradition. In terms of max speed (1,750 RPM) and torque (515 inch-pounds), it matches the performance of many higher-priced tool brands, and weighs slightly over 2.5 pounds. The kit comes with the drill, two 1.5 amp-hour batteries, and a charger. 

In our tests, the Ryobi rechargeable drill/driver displayed outstanding drilling and driving speed and power. It drilled effortlessly through a 2×4 with a ⅛-inch twist bit. When we swapped out the twist bit for a spade bit, it drilled a clean, precise hole in just 4 seconds. It was equally as fast and effective while driving 3-inch deck screws. Performance was nearly identical to brushless drills in the same size and power range. We suspect that this brushed motor drill would deplete its batteries faster than brushless models, but from a performance standpoint, this model held its own admirably.

A few of the build details that reveal the likely price difference between this model and premium drills include the brushed motor and plastic chuck. Professional-grade drill drivers are built with all-metal chucks and brushless motors for improved durability and battery life. But weekenders can save money and get premium performance from this standard ½-inch drill. It offers ample power and speed at an excellent price.

Get the Ryobi cordless drill at The Home Depot.

Best Heavy-Duty

Milwaukee 2804-20 M18 FUEL ½-Inch Hammer Drill/Driver

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What We Like

• Brushless motor increases overall power and prolongs battery life
• 14-position clutch allows the user to select optimal torque power
• Provides up to 32,000 beats per minute in impact mode

What We Don’t Like

• Tool-only model; consumers must purchase battery and charger separately

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Product Specs

• Voltage: 18V
• Weight: 3.2 pounds (without battery)
• Speed: Up to 2,000 rpm

Our Ratings

Different types of drills excel in different situations. If your project requires precision drilling in cramped spaces, consider the Makita XAD05T. Its right angle design easily navigates tight spaces that exclude conventional drills. In our hands-on tests, the XAD05T allowed us to drill holes and insert fasteners where a standard drill simply would not fit. The kit includes the 18-volt ½-inch right-angle drill, a 5 amp-hour battery, a charger, and a tool bag.

This specialty drill is designed for professional plumbers, electricians, and others who regularly work in close quarters. It streamlines tasks like drilling through studs and joists to run wiring or install water lines. The drill body is long and narrow, and the chuck extends to one side, minimizing the needed clearance. However, operating this drill requires both hands to stabilize the drill and control downward pressure while drilling.

In our tests, the Makita XAD05T did a fine job drilling and driving in all the different materials, even though working with it was a more cumbersome process. Because of its unique design and handling requirements, it will not replace a conventional drill/driver for general use where high torque and versatility are priorities. In those cases, a standard drill will be the best option. But this drill goes where other drills won’t, making it the best tool for those specific tasks. 

Get the Makita cordless drill at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Acme Tools.

Most Versatile

Bosch GSR12V-300FCB22 12V MAX Chameleon Drill/Driver

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What We Like

• Compact and lightweight, making it handy for overhead use and in tight spots
• Multiple attachments offer added versatility for drilling or inserting fasteners
• Comes with a battery, charger, and all attachments, plus a carry bag

What We Don’t Like

• With just 12 volts, it’s not designed for heavy-duty drilling

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Product Specs

• Voltage: 12V
• Weight: 1.4 pounds (without battery)
• Speed: Up to 1,300 rpm

Small but mighty, this Bosch cordless drill came with several quick-change attachments that allowed us to drill holes and insert screws in various settings. We quickly discovered why this Bosch drill features what the manufacturer calls the FlexiClick system: The attachments connect via a simple push-and-click movement that locks them firmly in place. The drill has a standard attachment with a ⅜-inch chuck that accepts most drill and screw bits. It also has an offset attachment that allowed us to adjust the position of the bit to fit in hard-to-reach spots and an angle attachment that gives the Bosch drill a multiposition head for drilling at various slants. 

While this is just a 12-volt model, we found it had ample power and torque to drill holes in dimensional lumber using even a paddle bit. We also found the 20-position clutch helpful for adjusting the torque to keep from stripping out screw heads in both hardwood and softwood. 

The LED guide light isn’t as bright as it could be—it may help slightly, but you will probably want to use a supplemental work light if you’re drilling in low-light situations. The belt clip on this tool is located at the back of the head, which we liked better than the drills with clips located at the base of the handle. It was easier to slip on and off our tool belts. This little drill won’t replace a full-power drill/driver, but it’s an excellent pick for tackling tasks in tight spots.

Get the Bosch cordless drill at Amazon, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, or Acme Tools.

Best Compact

Bosch PS31-2A 12V MAX ⅜-Inch Drill/Driver Kit

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What We Like

• 20-position clutch offers the ability to fine-tune torque power
• 2 speed settings and variable-speed trigger maximize control while in use
• Built-in LED light offers welcome illumination in dark environments

What We Don’t Like

• ⅜-inch chuck will not accept larger ½-inch drill and screw bits

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Product Specs

• Voltage: 12V
• Weight: 1.8 pounds (without battery)
• Speed: Up to 1,300 rpm

We were impressed by both the compact size and the bright LED light on the Bosch cordless drill. It delivers a surprising amount of practical power in a remarkably diminutive package. It weighs a little more than 2 pounds and comes with a ⅜-inch chuck. Two speed ranges provide good versatility for all kinds of drilling and driving tasks. There’s also a battery-charge indicator light on the side.

We tested this model’s drilling power with a paddle bit and regular bits, and it performed flawlessly when drilling in pine. It kept chugging along when we drilled in ash wood, but after drilling dozens of holes in the harder wood, the body of the drill became quite warm. We realized, however, that we were pushing the Bosch drill beyond what it was designed to do. We let it cool down and then tested its driving capabilities.

The 20-setting clutch was the easiest to adjust of all the drills we tested, and it offered a wide range of torque sensitivity. The only downside—and it could be a game changer for some—is how tight the batteries fit. It’s challenging to remove them, and someone without a strong grip might not be able to do so at all.

The Bosch kit includes a pair of 2Ah batteries, a charger, screwdriver bits, and a carry bag. While mainly designed for DIY users, it will also appeal to contractors, particularly those who often work overhead and who don’t need a heavy-duty drill much of the time.

Get the Bosch PS31-2A cordless drill at Amazon, Acme Tools, or Menards.

Best Combination Kit

Milwaukee 2801-22CT M18 Compact Drill Driver Kit

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What We Like

• Nonslip ergonomic grip and variable-speed trigger for versatility
• 18-position clutch settings adjust torque when inserting screws
• Bright LED guide light illuminates the work area well

What We Don’t Like

• The clutch adjustment was tight and slightly difficult to turn

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Product Specs

• Voltage: 18V
• Weight: 2.5 pounds (without battery)
• Speed: Up to 1,800 rpm

Some of the drills in this lineup require additional purchases, such as a battery or charger, but this Milwaukee compact drill/driver comes with all the components needed to get started. We charged the battery and started testing by drilling holes in hardwood and softwood. It features a brushless motor for added torque and longer battery life, and it easily powered through our drilling tests.

This cordless drill comes with an 18-position clutch that made it easy to adjust the torque power to keep from stripping out screw heads when we tested its driver function. However, we noticed that the clutch ring was pretty tight and took some effort to adjust. Hopefully, it will loosen up with repeated use. It also has a bright LED guide light on the front of the handle just above the grip, and it did an excellent job illuminating the work area when we used it in a dim setting.

The M18 comes with a ½-inch chuck, so most standard drill and screw bits will fit, and the Milwaukee features a handy belt clip on the bottom side.

Get the Milwaukee M18 cordless drill at Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, or Acme Tools.

Also Consider

DeWalt DCD701F2 XTREME 12V MAX Drill/Driver Kit

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What We Like

• Provides a long battery life despite being compact and lightweight
• 2 speed transmission settings; 15 clutch settings for correct torque and speed
• Bright LED light stays on for about 30 seconds after triggering

What We Don’t Like

• This 12V drill is powerful for its size but not for heavy-duty use

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Product Specs

• Voltage: 12V
• Weight: 1.9 pounds (without battery)
• Speed: Up to 1,500 rpm

The third DeWalt cordless drill to earn a spot on this lineup, the DCD701F2 is lightweight and compact but long on power. It comes with two 12V rechargeable batteries, a charger, and a handy tool bag for carrying and storing the tool.

At 12V and less than 6 inches from back to tip, the DCD701F2 is a subcompact drill, but we had no problem drilling through both hardwood and softwood. It features two speed transmission settings and a bright LED guide light that stayed on for about 30 seconds after we stopped pulling the trigger. We liked this feature since it allowed us to briefly see the work area, even when we weren’t actively drilling.

The drill comes with 15 clutch settings that were easy to adjust and allowed us to insert a variety of screws into materials of varying density without stripping out any screw heads. The DeWalt also has an optional belt clip that can be attached to the tool’s right or left side.

Get the DeWalt DCD701F2 cordless drill at Ace Hardware, Grainger, or Acme Tools.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Cordless Drills

Cordless drills have been a mainstay of home and professional tool boxes for years, and they vary significantly. The top tool brands equip drills with brushless motors, power them with 12-volt or 18-volt batteries, and include such convenience features as ergonomic handle designs, built-in LED work lights, variable triggers, and adjustable speed and torque. We spent 25 hours testing 13 highly rated cordless drills in order to identify the best new models. 

After drilling more than 500 holes and installing 200 screws and bolts, we recorded our observations and scored each drill from 0 (lowest) to 5 (highest) for build quality, ease of use, performance, and value. In the end, we analyzed each drill’s cumulative score, and those that performed the best within their voltage range earned a spot on our best cordless drill lineup. We’re confident that these drills are among the best cordless drills on the market today—for several different types of users. 

What to Consider When Choosing a Cordless Drill

Given the tremendous variety of drills available, there are numerous things to consider when choosing the best cordless power drill for you. Think about the following key factors in your search for the best cordless drill for your needs.

Voltage and Amp Hours

Voltage indicates the energy output of a cordless drill, which averages from 7.2 to 20 volts (V), although a few higher-voltage drills are out there. The higher the voltage, the more motor power a drill has. How you plan to use a drill will determine how much voltage is needed. Often, 12V models make great general-purpose household tools for occasional use. 

Avid DIYers and professionals tend to prefer 18V or 20V models. However, there is some natural confusion about 18 and 20V cordless drills. They are, in fact, the same thing. When an electric motor starts up, it gives a quick surge—in this case, to 20 volts. It then settles down to its normal running power of 18 volts. Some manufacturers choose to include the smaller figure in the specs, while others include the larger. Nevertheless, in terms of power, they are exactly the same. Similarly, the running power of a 12V drill is actually 10.8V. 

The most suitable voltage depends on how you plan to use the drill:

• Less than 12V: A compact and lightweight tool for those who only have the occasional need for a drill or driver. These models are also popular with hobbyists and model makers.
• 12V: An affordable, general-purpose tool popular with DIYers for a wide range of drilling and driving tasks, such as installing shelves and assembling furniture. Not for heavy-duty use.
• 18 or 20V: Powerful and versatile tools, they might have a hammer action for drilling masonry and can drive longer fixings with relative ease. Heavy-duty slotted-drive-system versions have enough power for home remodeling and professional use, and they can even tackle small demolition tasks.

Beyond the energy output, the battery’s amp hour rating (Ah) is important to consider. The higher the Ah, the longer the tool can run. Batteries included with the purchase of a drill typically run 1.3 or 1.5 Ah. That’s adequate, but not generous. Models of 3.0 to 4.0 Ah provide much more powerful performance for the same price. More powerful 10 Ah batteries come at a price point more likely to appeal to professional users who regularly need longer-lasting tools.

Torque and Speed

Powerful motors produce more torque, or twisting force. Rotation speed indicates how many revolutions the drill bit makes per minute (typically between 200 and 1,000 RPM), with slower speeds providing more torque. While a high-speed tool drills faster, a model with more torque can drill through harder materials with larger bits more efficiently. 

Most drills have a clutch to temper some of the torque they produce. When a screw being inserted reaches the maximum depth, the clutch disengages the spinning force, preventing the drill bit from stripping out the head of the screw—or worse, catching in the head—which can cause the drill to jerk violently and lead to injury. 

Cordless drills offer multiple clutch settings, and most include a variable-speed trigger. Look for a model with at least 10 clutch settings so you can adjust it to the right amount of resistance necessary for a wide array of tasks. Similarly, a drilling machine with two speed settings offers more versatility.

Size, Weight, and Chuck Size

How much a drill’s physical size and weight matter depends on both the user’s physical strength and the intended frequency and length of use. Lightweight models may weigh as little as a pound. Heavy-duty cordless hammer drills might surpass 8 pounds. Although it may be tempting to buy the most powerful tool for a given budget, the extra weight that comes with that power could quickly lead to user fatigue. It’s also worth checking whether the quoted weight includes the battery, because often the weight listed in the tool’s product specs does not. 

While many general-purpose cordless drills are quite large, others can be pretty compact without sacrificing power. That’s good to know when it comes to drilling and driving screws in confined spaces. 

Just about every cordless drill has a convenient keyless chuck, though chuck size varies. This generally reflects the capabilities of the drill as it governs the maximum size of drill bit that can be inserted. Light-duty models might have a ¼-inch chuck, while high-power tools may have a chuck of up to ½ inch.

Brushed vs. Brushless Motor

Corded drills sometimes come with a brushed motor. They are cheap and reliable, but the brushes eventually wear down and require replacement. The other challenge with brushed motors is that they create friction, which runs down the battery more quickly in a cordless model. 

The best cordless drills often use a brushless motor. These virtually maintenance-free motors make much more efficient use of the battery. However, brushless motors cost more. As a result, many budget cordless drills still use brushed motors. 

For a typical DIYer, the difference is probably negligible. Those who want to maximize performance and runtime, particularly professional users, often choose a brushless cordless drill. 

Runtime 

Nearly all cordless power tools, including drills, run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. A drill battery lasts from as little as 15 minutes to more than 1 hour on a single charge. It can take up to 5 hours for a full recharge, so if a project involves extensive drilling, opt for a kit with backup batteries. 

Note that manufacturer statements on runtime often take backup batteries into account. For instance, the specs on a drill that comes with two batteries, each lasting 1 hour, may cite a 2-hour runtime. 

Additionally, many cordless drills include a smart charger that replenishes the battery faster, usually within 15 to 60 minutes. A charge indicator allows you to monitor battery capacity.

Additional Features

Depending on how you intend to use the power tool, one or more of the following extras may be worth looking for in a kit. 

• A rubberized grip reduces hand and arm fatigue and prevents blisters.
• Some drill handle designs facilitate multiple hand positions for different types of drilling.
• Interchangeable batteries work with other power tools from the same brand. 
• Work lights enhance visibility and precision while working.
• Drills with a bit holder offer easier access to bits while using the tool.
• A storage box protects the drill and keeps any additional parts organized.

Shopping for a Used or Refurbished Cordless Drill

Historically, most people would balk at the idea of spending good money on a used or secondhand tool, but today’s refurbished models are not the dubious equipment found at a neighborhood yard sale. For some time, reputable manufacturers and retailers have been offering refurbished or renewed products like cordless drills alongside new models.

The idea is that when a commercially viable fix is possible, it cuts down on waste—which is always a good thing. It may also offer buyers the opportunity to acquire products that might otherwise be outside their budget.

These should not be tools that have been beaten to death for 364 days and returned on the day the warranty expires. It’s true that often they have been tried by another buyer but will have been returned within a relatively short return window. Other times, they might be tools damaged in transit or in the warehouse.

So are refurbished drills any good? In our opinion, yes. There’s every chance they could represent a real bargain. There are some interesting offers on refurbished or renewed drills at Amazon and Walmart, among others. However, care and common sense are needed.

• Specify the type of cordless drill you want first. Look at new models. Then see what you can get on the refurbished market that comes close to those specifications.
• Keep a tight rein on your budget. It’s easy to get carried away. The idea here is to save money or get better value.
• You should be looking for a substantial cost reduction. If the price is saving only 10 percent or 15 percent, it might be better to buy new.
• Make sure you know exactly what is included. Cordless tools often won’t include a battery or charger, for example.
• Be sure to check warranty and return periods before you order. Don’t make assumptions, even if you’ve bought from the retailer before.

While refurbished, reconditioned, or renewed tools are often excellent, there’s always a chance of buying a dud. Buy from a reputable source. Check the drill as soon as it arrives so you can get your money back if there’s a problem.

FAQs

Our in-depth investigation of technologies and specifications above may have you feeling better equipped to choose the best power drill for your needs. That valuable information is underlined by examples of some of the top cordless drills currently available. Nevertheless, with so many options available, a few questions might remain. The following are answers to some of the most common questions.

Q. What can a cordless drill be used for?

The primary use of a cordless drill is for drilling holes and driving screws. However, you can also get numerous attachments, which are sometimes included in cordless drill sets. There are stirrers for mixing paint and other liquids. You can also attach a sanding drum, a wire brush for rust removal, or a polishing bonnet. We have produced a handy guide to cordless drill uses here.

Q. Are cordless drills less powerful?

Corded models were once more powerful tools. But today, equally powerful cordless models rival them. However, cordless models lose some of their power over the course of the charge while corded models perform at a consistent level for as long as they’re plugged in.

Q. What’s the difference between a cordless drill and an electric screwdriver?

An electric screwdriver is usually much smaller, has less power, and cannot drill holes. The cordless drill can make holes and also drive screws.

Q. Which brand of cordless drill is the best?

New and improved models enter the market all the time, so it’s difficult to say which brand is best overall. Brands with a reputation for high-quality tools include Bosch, DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee. However, almost all modern cordless drills are pretty durable and reliable.

Q. How long do cordless drills last on a single charge?

It very much depends on the amp hours of the battery and how hard the drill is working. A battery can last as little as 15 minutes, though many will run between 30 minutes and 1 hour. Buying a spare battery for your rechargeable drill allows you to simply swap one out and carry on working while the other charges.

Q. What are better, brushed or brushless cordless drills?

Brushless electric motors are more efficient and powerful than brushed motors. They often last longer, too. But the higher level of performance also comes with a higher price. For occasional light-duty drilling, brushed cordless drills are more cost-effective.

Q. What is the best voltage for a cordless drill?

The best voltage depends on the user’s needs. For instance, 12-volt drills are inexpensive and perfectly capable of performing light-duty drilling and driving, while 18-volt drills produce the higher torque and faster RPM required for medium and heavy-duty projects.

Meet the Tester

Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in construction, remodeling, and real estate. She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.

Mark Wolfe is a product tester, writer, and serial DIYer. When he isn’t writing, he spends his time upgrading, repairing, and replacing anything and everything in his home, yard, and garden. He tests and writes reviews about hand and power tools, lawn care and home repair products, and outdoor living goods.

Additional research provided by Bob Beacham.

 

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