Cordless drills have changed how we tackle projects around the home and workplace. These portable tools let you move freely and work anywhere without cords.
Whether you’re hanging pictures or assembling furniture, a cordless drill makes the job faster and easier. A good drill can also handle major renovations.
The market now offers many options, from lightweight models for simple tasks to heavy-duty versions for tougher jobs. Battery technology has improved, with lithium-ion batteries now lasting longer and providing steady power.
Most modern cordless drills include adjustable clutch settings, variable speed triggers, and LED work lights. These features make them easier and safer to use.
When you shop for a cordless drill, check the voltage rating. Most models range from 12V to 20V.
Higher voltage gives you more power, but also adds weight. Battery capacity, measured in amp-hours (Ah), tells you how long you can work before recharging.
Chuck size matters too. Most homeowners use a 3/8-inch chuck, but a 1/2-inch chuck handles bigger jobs.
We tested fifteen popular cordless drills in real-world scenarios. Our tests helped us find the best options for different needs and budgets.
Best Cordless Drills
We tested many cordless drills to find the top performers for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Our selections balance power, battery life, comfort, and value.
Each drill on our list offers reliable performance and features that make home improvement easier.
DEWALT 20V MAX Drill & Impact Driver Combo
This DEWALT combo kit offers excellent value, power, and versatility for both DIYers and professionals.
Pros
- Lightweight design reduces fatigue
- Powerful motor handles tough materials
- Long-lasting batteries offer plenty of runtime
Cons
- Carrying case could be more durable
- Not ideal for heavy industrial use
- Chuck may slip with larger bits
We used this DEWALT combo on several home projects last week. The drill driver delivered 300 UWO power and a smooth two-speed transmission.
Even when we drilled into hardwood, the drill kept working smoothly. The impact driver’s compact size helped us work in tight spaces.
The three LED lights removed shadows, making dark corners easy to see. Battery life impressed us.
We assembled a bookshelf and mounted wall fixtures before swapping batteries. The charger worked quickly, so we got back to work fast.
Both tools have ergonomic handles that reduced hand fatigue during long projects. At just 8.69 pounds, this kit suits anyone needing reliable tools on a budget.
The 3-year warranty adds peace of mind.
DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill Kit
The DEWALT 20V Max cordless drill balances power, portability, and durability for both DIYers and professionals.
Pros
- Lightweight but powerful design
- Two-speed transmission for versatility
- Kit includes two batteries, charger, and case
Cons
- Battery life could be better for heavy-duty use
- Chuck may loosen during intense work
- Slightly bulky for very tight spaces
We used this DEWALT drill on several home projects and saw strong performance. The 300-watt motor drilled through wood, metal, and plastic with ease.
Its compact size let us reach tight corners. The ergonomic handle felt comfortable and reduced fatigue during long jobs.
The built-in LED light made it easy to see in dark areas. The 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck held bits securely, and changing bits was quick.
Battery life was decent for medium-sized projects. We appreciated the second battery for backup.
The carrying case kept everything organized. For its price, this DEWALT kit offers great value and reliability for most users.
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill
This compact DEWALT drill delivers strong power and reliability for everyday tasks and bigger projects.
Pros
- Brushless motor increases runtime and durability
- Compact design fits in tight spaces
- Kit includes battery, charger, belt hook, and storage bag
Cons
- Single battery may need recharging for long projects
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
- Higher price than basic models
We tested the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and liked its mix of power and portability. The brushless motor gave us longer runtime and better performance.
We completed multiple drilling tasks on one charge. The lightweight design made it comfortable for long use.
At just over 5 pounds with battery, it didn’t cause fatigue even overhead. The ergonomic grip gave us good control for precise screw placement.
The two-speed transmission was easy to adjust for different tasks. The LED light helped in dark corners and stayed on for 20 seconds after we released the trigger.
The included 2.0Ah battery worked well for most household tasks. Professionals may want extra batteries for all-day use.
DEWALT’s build quality shows in the chuck, which holds bits securely. The storage bag fits the drill, charger, battery, and some accessories.
Anyone needing a reliable cordless drill will find good value in this DEWALT model.
DEKOPRO 20V Cordless Drill
This lightweight cordless drill provides enough power for everyday home projects at an affordable price.
Pros
- Lightweight (2.5 pounds) reduces hand fatigue
- Two speed settings and 19 torque options
- Includes a comprehensive bit set
Cons
- Limited battery capacity for long projects
- Not suitable for heavy-duty work
- Plastic construction feels less durable
We tested the DEKOPRO drill on several home tasks and found it capable for its size. The 20V system gave us enough torque for basic drilling in wood and light metal.
The compact frame fit comfortably in our hands. Variable speed control (0-350/0-1350 RPM) made it easy to start holes slowly and then increase speed.
The LED light helped in dim areas by clearly lighting our work surface. Battery life worked for small to medium projects.
We drilled about 30 holes and drove many screws on one charge. The included accessories cover most basic needs, but frequent users may want better bits.
This drill is a good value for beginners and occasional home users.
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Combo Kit
This DEWALT drill and impact driver combo delivers professional-grade performance with impressive power and comfort.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact design
- Brushless motors offer great power and tool life
- Quick-change chuck for fast bit changes
Cons
- LED light cannot be turned off
- Standard 2.0Ah batteries may need frequent charging for heavy jobs
- Charger requires 110V (adapter needed for international use)
We put this DEWALT combo kit to the test. The drill driver delivered 340 unit watts of power, while the impact driver produced 1,500 inch-pounds of torque.
Both tools handled household repairs and tougher projects with ease. The compact size made it easy to reach tight spaces.
At just 7.6 inches front to back, we worked inside cabinets and corners easily. The ergonomic grip felt balanced and comfortable.
Battery life was good for the included 2.0Ah batteries. We finished several medium projects on one charge.
The LED lights on both tools lit up dark workspaces well. They stay on for 20 seconds after releasing the trigger.
Variable speed triggers gave us precise control. The kit includes a sturdy contractor bag for organization.
Anyone looking to upgrade or start with quality tools will find this DEWALT combo delivers professional results at a fair price.
Buying Guide
When you shop for a cordless drill, consider these key factors.
Power and Voltage
Drill voltage shows its power. Higher voltage means more power and more weight.
| Voltage | Best For |
|---|---|
| 12V | Light household tasks |
| 18V | General DIY projects |
| 20V+ | Heavy-duty construction |
Battery Life and Type
Choose drills with lithium-ion batteries. They last longer and don’t suffer from memory effect.
Most drills now have removable batteries. A spare battery is helpful for long projects.
Chuck Size
The chuck holds the drill bit. Common sizes are 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch.
A 1/2-inch chuck fits larger bits for more tasks.
Speed and Torque Settings
Multiple speed settings give you better control. Use lower speeds for driving screws and higher speeds for drilling.
Adjustable torque settings help avoid over-tightening screws.
Weight and Ergonomics
Hold the drill before buying if you can. A comfortable grip is important for long use.
Lighter drills (2-3 pounds) are easier to handle but may have less power.
Additional Features
Look for LED lights to brighten your work area. Magnetic bit holders add convenience.
Some drills offer hammer functionality for masonry work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cordless drills keep improving with new features and technology. Many buyers have questions before choosing the right drill.
What are the top rated cordless drills according to consumer reports?
Consumer Reports consistently rates the Milwaukee M18 FUEL, DeWalt 20V MAX XR, and Makita 18V LXT as top performers. These models score high on performance, battery life, and durability.
Bosch 18V and Ridgid 18V also earn excellent ratings, especially for their power and ergonomics. Most top-rated models use brushless motors and lithium-ion batteries.
Professional reviewers praise these drills for their reliable torque and performance in many applications.
Which cordless drill brand offers the best value for money?
Ryobi offers excellent value with their ONE+ system. These drills deliver good performance at lower prices than premium brands.
Porter-Cable and Black+Decker also provide budget-friendly options without sacrificing too much quality. Many value brands now include brushless motors in their mid-tier models.
Craftsman has improved its value segment, offering good warranties and performance at competitive prices.
What features differentiate professional grade cordless drills used by contractors?
Professional-grade drills use all-metal chucks and gearboxes for added durability. They offer higher torque ratings, often above 700 in-lbs, and multiple speed settings.
Advanced features include electronic clutches, smart battery technology, and impact protection systems. These drills also resist dust and moisture better than standard models.
Professional models usually come with extended warranties and work with larger battery systems.
How does battery life impact the performance of cordless drills?
Battery life directly affects how long you can work and your productivity. Higher amp-hour (Ah) ratings give you more runtime between charges.
Voltage ratings, such as 12V, 18V, or 20V, determine the drill’s power. Higher voltage means more torque and better performance for tough tasks.
Modern lithium-ion batteries provide steady power until they are nearly empty. Older NiCad batteries lose power gradually during use.
What are the benefits of having a cordless drill with two batteries?
Two batteries let you work continuously without stopping. You can use one battery while charging the other.
This setup is helpful for professionals and DIYers working on large projects. It removes downtime caused by waiting for batteries to recharge.
Dual battery kits often save money over time, even if the upfront cost is higher.
In terms of power and durability, how do DEWALT and Milwaukee drills compare?
Milwaukee drills usually deliver higher torque ratings. Many professionals choose them for demanding tasks.
The FUEL line from Milwaukee uses strong motors and advanced electronics.
DeWALT focuses on ergonomics with a well-balanced and comfortable grip. Their batteries often charge faster than Milwaukee’s.
Both brands use metal gearboxes and chuck mechanisms for durability. Many professionals use drills from both brands for years in tough environments.