--- title: "The Best Right-Angle Drills for Plumbing, Electrical, Cabinetry, and DIY Jobs" description: "We tested cordless, corded, and attachment-style right-angle drills with twist bits, spade bits, and long screws to find the best picks." date: "2026-11-13" modified: "2026-11-13" authors: - name: "Glenda Taylor" job_title: "Staff Writer" link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/glenda-taylor.md" - name: "Tony Carrick" job_title: "Contributing Writer" link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/tony-carrick.md" url: "https://www.bobvila.com/reviews/best-right-angle-drills/" categories: - "Power Tools" - "Reviews" - "Tools & Materials" tags: - "Commerce" - "MPR" --- # The Best Right-Angle Drills for Plumbing, Electrical, Cabinetry, and DIY Jobs ![Best Right Angle Drill]() *Photo: Tony Carrick for BobVila.com* ## - Head size matters most, since a shorter, slimmer head determines how far a right-angle drill can reach into confined areas. - 18- and 20-volt models handled large holes and long screws with ease, while 12-volt drills suit lighter assembly and installation work. - Using two hands or bracing the drill helps prevent kickback, which is the biggest safety risk with these tools. A right-angle drill solves problems when a standard drill can't reach—navigating between studs, working inside cabinets, or tackling tight corners. While this makes these specialized power [tools]() handy in these situations, who truly needs a right-angle drill? Plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and pretty much anyone involved in construction and renovation projects will appreciate having one handy. Even hobbyists and homeowners may need a right-angle drill when tackling certain jobs, such as installing cabinetry or assembling furniture. We test the top right-angle drills to find the best models for pros and homeowners. Our favorite was the Ridgid thanks to its comprehensive kit, durable build, and impressive power. Below, find the results of our hands-on tests and learn how these models earned their spot in this lineup of the best right-angle drills. 1. **BEST OVERALL:** [Ridgid R87701 ⅜-Inch Right-Angle Drill Kit]() *[↓ Jump to Review](<#ridgid-r87701-⅜-inch-right-angle-drill-kit>)* 2. **BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:** [Ryobi ONE+ HP PSBRA02B Right-Angle Drill]() *[↓ Jump to Review](<#ryobi-one-hp-psbra02b-right-angle-drill>)* 3. **BEST LIGHT-DUTY:**[ Milwaukee M12 Cordless ⅜-Inch Right-Angle Drill]() *[↓ Jump to Review](<#milwaukee-m12-cordless-⅜-inch-right-angle-drill>)* 4. **BEST CORDLESS:** [Bosch 5-In-1 Flexiclick System 12V Drill Driver]() *[↓ Jump to Review](<#bosch-5-in-1-flexiclick-system-12v-drill-driver>)* 5. **BEST CORDED:** [Makita DA4031 ½-Inch Reversible 2-Speed Angle Drill]() *[↓ Jump to Review](<#makita-da4031-½-inch-reversible-2-speed-angle-drill>)* 6. **BEST HEAVY-DUTY CORDLESS:** [DeWalt DCD740 20V MAX ⅜-Inch Right-Angle Drill]() *[↓ Jump to Review](<#dewalt-dcd740-20v-max-⅜-inch-right-angle-drill>)* 7. **BEST ATTACHMENT:** [DeWalt DWARA120 Impact Ready Right-Angle Attachment]() *[↓ Jump to Review](<#dewalt-dwara120-impact-ready-right-angle-attachment>)* ![Ridgid R87701 ⅜-Inch Right-Angle Drill Kit]() *Photo: Tony Carrick for BobVila.com* ## Best Right-Angle Drills Compared | **Product** | **Power source** | **Maximum RPM** | **Weight** | **Our Rating** | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [Ridgid R87701 ⅜-Inch Right-Angle Drill Kit]() | 18V battery | 1,900 RPM | 2.03 pounds | 4.8/5 | | [Ryobi ONE+ HP PSBRA02B Right-Angle Drill]() | 18V battery | 1,700 RPM | 2.5 pounds | 4.1/5 | | [Milwaukee M12 Cordless ⅜-Inch Right-Angle Drill]() | 12V battery | 800 RPM | 2.03 pounds | 5/5 | | [Bosch 5-In-1 Flexiclick System 12V Drill Driver]() | 12V battery | 1,750 RPM | 1.2 pounds | 5/5 | | [Makita DA4031 ½-Inch Reversible 2-Speed Angle Drill]() | 12V battery | 1,750 RPM | 1.2 pounds | 5/5 | | [DeWalt DCD740 20V MAX ⅜-Inch Right-Angle Drill]() | 20V battery | 2,000 RPM | 3.25 pounds | 4.4/5 | | [DeWalt DWARA120 Impact Ready Right-Angle Attachment]() | N/A | N/A | 4.8 ounces | 5/5 | ![Contractor fastening a screw on the bottom of a cabinet with a Bosch right angle drill.]() *Photo: Glenda Taylor for BobVila.com* ## Our Top Picks Any of the following right-angle drills will make it easier to drill holes and drive screws in tight areas, but each one comes with some pros and cons. We've detailed both the benefits and the downsides noted during our tests. Some models are best suited to light-duty use, while others are powerhouses designed with construction pros in mind. There's sure to be one that will suit your project needs. **Our Ratings** | **Performance** | **4.6/5** | **Design** | **5/5** | **Value** | **4.8/5** | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | Ridgid’s cordless right-angle drill manages to be compact and lightweight while still offering tremendous drilling and driving power. Its head measures just 3.5 inches long, making it one of the shortest 18V or 20V angle drills we tested. Couple that with its slim profile and short length, and it fits easily into tight spaces inside cabinets and under-sink vanities. Right-angle drills tend to be top-heavy, which can make them awkward to hold. With its compact size and light weight, the Ridgid was an exception. It felt comfortable and well balanced in the hand, which is significant given that these tools are often used in tight spaces where it’s not possible to get a two-handed grip. Adding to its maneuverability is a long trigger that’s easy to access from various hand positions. The trigger has ample rubberized grip, making it easy to keep a firm hold on the tool. Given its smaller size, we expected it to come up lacking in power. It didn’t. With a max speed of 1,900 RPM, the Ridgid had no trouble handling the larger bits we tested, easily boring holes with a 1/2-inch twist bit and 1-inch spade bit. It followed up that impressive performance by effortlessly driving ten 3-inch carpenter screws into a couple of stacked 2x4s. And if you need additional torque, you can get its max 375 in-lbs (inch-pounds) by dropping down to its lower speed setting. **What our tester says:** “Ridgid’s right-angle drill is everything you want out of this kind of specialty power tool. It’s compact and lightweight while still packing plenty of power for drilling large holes and driving fasteners.”—Tony Carrick, Product Reviews tester and writer **Get the Ridgid right-angle drill at** [**The Home Depot**]()**.** **Our Ratings** | **Performance** | **4/5** | **Design** | **4/5** | **Value** | **4.3/5** | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | Ryobi’s tools have steadily grown more powerful over the years, slowly closing the gap with premium brands, and the PSBRA02 right-angled drill is a great example of the brand's progression. With a max speed of 1,700 RPM and 350 in-lbs of torque, it can handle just about any job that requires this type of tool. Those specs also put it in the same ballpark as other cordless drills, all at a friendlier price point for DIYers who may not need premium performance. It produced enough power for drilling ½-inch holes with a twist bit and 1-inch holes with a paddle bit. It also didn’t struggle to drive a 3-inch carpentry screw through two 2x4s. The PSBRA02 won’t win any speed tests, but unless you’re drilling dozens of holes or driving loads of screws, you likely won't notice the time difference. The PSBRA02 isn't the most compact right-angle drill out there, nor is it the largest. Nonetheless, it fits into compact spaces thanks to a head that measures just 3.5 inches long. It also feels comfortable in the hand with a manageable weight, plenty of rubberized grip around the handle, and a long trigger accessible from various hand positions. **Get the Ryobi right-angle drill at** [**Amazon**]() **or** [**The Home Depot**]()**.** **Our Ratings** | **Performance** | **5/5** | **Design** | **5/5** | **Value** | **5/5** | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | Looking for a 12-volt right-angle drill that delivers impressive power? The Milwaukee cordless drill caught our attention for all the right reasons. We tested the kit version of this small right-angle drill, complete with a battery and charger. However, users who already own 12V Milwaukee tools can order the drill as a "tool only" and utilize existing batteries. This drill sits on the smaller side of the spectrum, weighing in at a mere 2.03 pounds. It slipped effortlessly into tight spots during tests, and its lightweight design let us comfortably operate it with just one hand. Since this drill packs less power than some other models we tested, it isn’t well-suited for heavy construction work. Instead, it excels at light-duty tasks like furniture assembly and drilling small holes in confined spaces. The integrated LED light was handy, though we did use an additional work light in darker areas. The real surprise here is the inclusion of a clutch, an essential feature that prevents stripping screw heads. What's more, the elongated trigger design allowed us to adjust our grip up or down on the tool handle (based on comfort level) and still easily pull the trigger. While this drill is not intended for heavy-duty tasks, it's a good choice for electricians, HVAC technicians, and plumbers who require precise screw insertion or minor hole drilling in tight spaces. **Get the Milwaukee right-angle drill at** []()[**Amazon**]() **(tool only),** [**Ace Hardware**]() **(tool only), or** [**The Home Depot**]() **(battery included).** **Our Ratings** | **Performance** | **5/5** | **Design** | **5/5** | **Value** | **5/5** | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | Look no further than the Bosch 12V Flexiclick drill. This handy tool boasts high and low speeds alongside a variable-speed trigger, and it performed admirably in our hands-on tests. Unlike other 12V models, the Bosch Flexiclick isn't confined solely to right-angle drilling. The array of attachments sets this drill apart, transforming it into a standard, offset, or right-angle drill by simply connecting the corresponding attachment. One of our favorite features was the head's ability to rotate in any direction. This allowed us to insert fasteners at any angle, though it required two hands when using the rotating head. Weighing only 1.2 pounds, this drill is comfortable for extended use, yet it offers an impressive 1,750 RPM—a remarkable feat for a 12-volt model. A magnetic bit holder adds convenience and also prevents the frustration of dropped screws. For DIY enthusiasts and shoppers seeking versatility without the need for heavy torque, the Bosch Flexiclick is a game changer. We found it effortless to change attachments thanks to the one-click interface, and it offers the ability to use the drill in multiple ways. A convenient storage case keeps everything organized. **Get the Bosch right-angle drill at** [**Amazon**]()**,** [**Lowe's**]()**, or** [**Acme Tools**]()**.** **Our Ratings** | **Performance** | **5/5** | **Design** | **5/5** | **Value** | **5/5** | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | Introducing the powerhouse of right-angle drills: The Makita DA4031. This [electric drill]() stands out as a true performer. While it's the only corded right-angle drill we tested, a host of impressive features make it an outstanding choice for construction pros. This heavy-duty drill features a potent 10-amp motor that provided unwavering power in our tests, drilling effortlessly through wall studs and joists. We found the second-hand handle indispensable for robust drilling tasks, as it let us grip it firmly while drilling for additional support. Perhaps best of all, both our right- and left-handed testers were able to use the drill comfortably, thanks to the ability to attach the handle to either side of the tool. The corded Makita made quick work of drilling large holes through ply materials and dimensional lumber. Its built-in clutch exhibited impeccable performance, effectively halting torque at low speeds when the tool met heavy resistance. With a drill this powerful, a good clutch is a must—not just to avoid stripping screw heads, but to keep you from breaking a wrist. While the corded design offers a consistent power supply sans battery charging, it has limitations. Since we’re so used to cordless tools, we really noticed the Makita’s cord limitations, like having to drag a cord around and being limited to working near an electrical outlet. For those seeking the ultimate right-angle drilling companion on the jobsite, it's tough to beat the Makita DA4031 for its heavy-duty construction, durability, and reliable performance. **Get the Makita DA4031 right-angle drill at** [**Amazon**]() **or** [**Acme Tools**]()**.** **Our Ratings** | **Performance** | **4.8/5** | **Design** | **3.8/5** | **Value** | **4.3/5** | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | DeWalt’s 20V MAX right-angle cordless drill packs plenty of power, though this brawn comes at the cost of its maneuverability in confined spaces. Still, the DCD740 blazed through our drilling tests. With its high speed and torque output, it bored a clean hole with a ½-inch twist bit and chipped out a surprisingly smooth 1-inch hole with a paddle bit. It was also a fast driver, sinking 3-inch carpentry screws faster than other cordless right-angle drills we tested. The DeWalt DCD740 has two speeds, so you can drop the speed down to max out the torque, which will help prevent stripping out screw heads. Along with its power output, the DCD740 also has a tougher feel than other right-angle drills with a metal chuck and thicker plastic housing. The DCD740 is one of the brand’s earliest 20V cordless tools. It uses a brushed motor and is larger and heavier than other right-angle drills. Its bare tool weight of just over 3 pounds may not sound like a lot, but it makes a difference when extending your arm to drive in a screw in the deeper recesses of a cabinet. Its larger body and longer head mean it won’t fit into as tight a space as other more compact models. Still, it’s a powerful right-angle drill and a great option for anyone who already owns a few DeWalt 20V cordless tools. **What our tester says:** “This may be one of DeWalt’s oldest cordless tools, but it packs more driving and drilling power than other cordless right-angle drills we tested.”—Tony Carrick, Product Reviews tester and writer **Get the DeWalt DCD 740 at [Lowe's]().** **Our Ratings** | **Performance** | **5/5** | **Design** | **5/5** | **Value** | **5/5** | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | DeWalt's handy right-angle attachment offers a creative solution for those who occasionally need access to confined spaces without buying a dedicated right-angle drill. This ingenious accessory is not a stand-alone tool but a versatile addition that easily connects to the chuck of a ¼-inch standard DeWalt drill/driver or impact driver. It is well suited to even the tightest of spots and offers a convenient means of right-angle drilling and driving. As staunch admirers of DeWalt's innovation and craftsmanship, we think this compact attachment lives up to the manufacturer's stellar reputation. With the attachment connected to a standard drill, we easily drilled in tight spaces where our hands could barely fit. Although designed for light-duty applications, its practicality is undeniable. Since the attachment is made from fully magnetized and durable materials, we were able to insert screws in tight spots without needing to wedge in a second hand to hold the screw steady. This small attachment weighs just 4.8 ounces and can be stored alongside a standard drill, so it’s always ready to take the place of a hand ratchet for quick fastener attachment or drilling within confined areas. The DeWalt attachment also works well when connected to a standard drill. **Get the DeWalt right-angle drill attachment at** [**Amazon**]() **or** [**Lowe's**]()**.** ## [Jump to Our Top Picks](<#recap>) ![Ryobi ONE+ HP PSBRA02B Right-Angle Drill ]() *Photo: Tony Carrick for BobVila.com* ## How We Tested the Best Right-Angle Drills | Products tested | 7 | | --- | --- | | Time spent testing | 7 hours | | Tests performed | 4 | | Price range | $100 to $500 | Before testing the tools in this lineup, we researched more than 20 of the most popular right-angle drills and right-angle drill attachments. Our testing involved a range of tasks commonly encountered by professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. We tested the drills' capabilities in drilling holes through various materials, including studs and joists, to simulate the challenges faced during electrical and plumbing work. We also assessed their effectiveness for driving screws in tight spaces, such as cabinet bases and other confined areas. Throughout our testing, we paid close attention to the drills' power, precision, and ease of use. We tested the drills with different types of bits—including standard, auger, hole-saw, and driver bits—to assess their versatility across various applications. We evaluated their power and performance to gauge their ability to handle different tasks efficiently. We also looked for ergonomic design and user-friendliness, considering factors like grip comfort and the convenience of features like LED lights and soft start-ups. Finally, we awarded points based on a rubric: The better a tool performed a task, the more points it received. After testing, we averaged the points to help determine the best uses for the different tools. ## Our Testing Scores | **Product** | **Performance** | **Design** | **Value** | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [Ridgid R87701 ⅜-Inch Right-Angle Drill Kit]() | 4.6/5 | 5/5 | 4.8/5 | | [Ryobi ONE+ HP PSBRA02B Right-Angle Drill]() | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4.3/5 | | [Milwaukee M12 Cordless ⅜-Inch Right-Angle Drill]() | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | | [Bosch 5-In-1 Flexiclick System 12V Drill Driver]() | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | | [Makita DA4031 ½-Inch Reversible 2-Speed Angle Drill]() | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | | [DeWalt DCD740 20V MAX ⅜-Inch Right-Angle Drill]() | 4.8/5 | 3.8/5 | 4.3/5 | | [DeWalt DWARA120 Impact Ready Right-Angle Attachment]() | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | ## What to Consider When Choosing a Right-Angle Drill ![ DeWalt DCD740 20V MAX ⅜-Inch Right-Angle Drill ]() *Photo: Tony Carrick for BobVila.com* The width of the head is perhaps the most crucial feature of a right-angle drill because it determines the space into which it can fit. However, there are several other key factors to take into account, including motor speed, power source, and weight. Ahead, learn more about these and other important attributes to think about when choosing the best right-angle [drill](). ### Corded vs. Cordless Right-angle drills come in corded and[ cordless]() varieties, each with its own pros and cons. Cordless drills run on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and offer the convenience and flexibility of not needing an electrical outlet or a cord. This lets you use them virtually anywhere. Corded models, in comparison, require a standard electrical outlet. While these drills aren't as convenient, a 120V power supply makes them more powerful while providing a reliable and constant power supply. [Corded drills]() are also generally less expensive than cordless models. As with many [power tools](), spending more on a cordless model makes sense if it will see regular use. A less expensive corded model should suffice for DIYers who may use a right-angle drill only occasionally. ### Size and Weight Size and weight determine a right-angle drill's functionality and ease of use. Because a right-angle drill is meant to fit into tight spaces, size is crucial. Most right-angle drills have a head between 3 and 4 inches wide, so they can reach places standard corded and cordless power drills can’t. Right-angle drills can also be short and lightweight enough to manage with one hand—although heavy-duty models typically come with a secondary handle. Chuck size is also important. Most right-angle drills have a ⅜-inch chuck, which helps keep the head compact. Some larger models feature a ½-inch chuck for drilling larger holes or driving in bigger screws. These models typically have a wider head. ### Comfort and Grip Right-angle drills have ergonomically shaped handles with rubberized grips that let you hold them securely with one hand while drilling. Many also have detachable side handles that let you apply more leverage with the other hand. Some manufacturers equip right-angle drills with paddle-style triggers that run the length of the handle. This feature lets you better regulate trigger pressure to control the drill's speed. ### Motor Speed A drill’s speed determines how quickly the tool can drill holes or drive screws. It also gives an indication of how much torque the drill produces if the manufacturer does not provide that information. Speed is measured in RPM and, in most cases, is directly related to the power source. Most cordless 18V right-angle drills top out at around 1,500 RPM, while some 20V drills can reach about 2,000 RPM. Corded right-angle drills have access to more power, which means they can produce more RPM. A corded 4-amp right-angle drill boasts around 2,400 RPM. While speed isn’t the same as torque, motors that can produce higher RPM are more powerful and thus capable of producing more torque. ### Battery Life When assessing a cordless tool’s battery life, consider not only how long each charge lasts but also how long the battery itself will hold a charge before it needs replacing. Most batteries for right-angle cordless drills will last about 3 hours on a single charge with intermittent use and will take about 3 hours to recharge. Lithium-ion batteries typically last about 3 years, or about 300 to 500 charging cycles, before they begin to lose their ability to hold a charge. This doesn’t mean the battery will stop working altogether. As a battery nears the end of its life, it will simply last for a shorter period of time and require more frequent charging. ### Attachments and Additional Features As with standard drills, right-angle drills are capable of using various types of bits and attachments. These drills are adept at drilling holes with standard [drill bits]() or driving in screws with Phillips-head, flat, star, and other styles of screw-driving bits. These drills can also use socket attachments to drive bolts. Like other power tools, right-angle drills use a variety of accessories, including drill bits, screwdriver bits, chuck keys, and other accessories that can be misplaced. For this reason, many right-angle drills include a storage bag that holds the tool, accessories, batteries, and chargers all in one place for easy storage and transport. Right-angle drills also often offer convenient features like LED lights that illuminate the work area and switches that make it easier to control the drill speed, permitting the user to increase or decrease the speed range to maximize control and improve torque. ## FAQs For more information on how and where to best use a right-angle drill, read on for answers to some common questions about these power tools. ## Meet the Testers Tony Carrick is a freelance writer specializing in home improvement, landscaping, technology, home security, and design. Carrick has conducted rigorous product testing on everything from power tools to home security systems to backyard grills. With each review, his goal is to help readers determine whether a product meets their needs and if it is or isn’t worth its price tag. Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries. She and her husband own a general contracting company, and Taylor is experienced in both residential and commercial building applications. She tests a wide range of power tools, as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products. ## Author Glenda Taylor is a BobVila.com staff writer with a background in the residential remodeling, home building, and home improvement industries. 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