We may be compensated if you purchase through links on our website. Our Reviews Team is committed to delivering honest, objective, and independent reviews on home products and services.
Goto MrPowertools to know more.
More
In This Guide: Top 3 | Buyer&#;s Guide | Review Standards | FAQs | How We Selected | Our Testing Process | Why Trust This Old House
A cordless drill is a workhorse for any DIYer, a go-to tool for everything from hanging a picture in your home to putting together a piece of furniture.
To help you decide which cordless drill is best for you, our team tested the best cordless drills on the market today, scoring them on metrics from ergonomics to power. Here are our top picks.
If you decide to go with a corded electric drill instead, you can see our picks for those here.
Courtesy Amazon
DEWALT DCD771C2 Cordless Drill/Driver
Prices taken at time of publishing.
This DEWALT drill has enough power to help with heavy-duty projects around the home. It has a large chuck size of a half-inch and a high maximum voltage of 20 volts so that it can drill through tough materials with no problem. It also includes a carrying bag with straps.
Customers liked how easy it was to use this drill and said the few bells and whistles it had worked well, with the built-in LED light being bright and the extra battery pack allowing for continuous work. The small percentage of customers that weren&#;t happy with the drill said that the batteries that came with it only lasted a few months before no longer holding a charge.
Product Setup
This is the only product we tested that didn&#;t come with drill bits. However, we could attach bits from the other products in this review, even though this drill&#;s chuck size was larger.
Ergonomics
This product weighs under five pounds, has rubber on its handle for an easy grip, and distributes its weight evenly throughout the drill, so we gave it full points for this metric.
Power
This cordless drill had no problem drilling and driving through the hard, medium, and softwoods. It required some pressure during drilling, but after a few seconds, the drill bit or screw would poke out of the other end of the wood.
Runtime
The battery life and recharge time for this drill were on two extremes of the spectrum. The battery only lasted 20 minutes of heavy-duty use before it died and required a recharge, which is the shortest battery life of any of the batteries in this review.
However, the drill took only two hours to recharge, which is less time than the rest of the drills, and it came with an additional battery, so we didn&#;t have to wait around for the one battery to recharge.
This product received five points for both ergonomics and power. However, it lost a point for runtime because we had to recharge the batteries frequently.
Courtesy Amazon
Avid Power Cordless Drill
Prices taken at time of publishing.
The drill weighs around two pounds, making it lightweight enough to carry around your home for DIY projects or use over your head. This drill has a keyless chuck and a built-in LED light, but it also comes with 22 accessories, including a flexible shaft for hard-to-reach places.
Satisfied customers said they couldn&#;t beat the price of this product and were happy with all of the accessories that came with it. Customers also liked the drill&#;s flexible shaft for hard-to-reach places and the USB port on the battery for charging electronics. However, some customers said that the chuck didn&#;t grip the bits well, causing them to detach from the drill when drilling through hard materials occasionally.
Product Setup
This drill came in a box with all of its accessories. We pulled out the drill, attached the battery to the bottom, and attached the correct bit to the chuck for drilling holes and driving screws.
Ergonomics
This drill weighs 2.2 pounds and has a rubberized grip around the handle, making it lightweight and comfortable. Even with the battery in place, which is the heaviest element of this drill, the drill&#;s weight was evenly distributed.
Power
Similar to the previous two drills, this drill had no problem drilling and driving into both hard and softwood. It did take a while for the screw to completely penetrate the wood and for the drill bit to drill a hole through the wood, but it eventually got there with patience.
Runtime
This drill lasted 40 minutes of continuous use before needing a recharge. However, it took three hours and 15 minutes to recharge, which is the second-longest recharge time behind the Black & Decker drill.
We gave this product full points for both ergonomics and power because it&#;s comfortable to use and drills through hard and soft woods. However, it lost a point for runtime, mostly because of its long charge time.
Courtesy Amazon
BLACKL+DECKER LD120VA Cordless Drill
Prices taken at time of publishing.
One charge can last up to 18 months if you occasionally use the drill for lighter tasks. When the battery dies, you can quickly recharge it with the charger in the kit.
Several customers complimented this drill&#;s ability to complete household tasks, like putting furniture together and mounting items on the wall, praising its twisting power. However, some customers said that their drill didn&#;t work as well when it hit resistance. For example, the drill would get stuck when drilling through harder wood.
Product Setup
Like with the Avid Power drill, this cordless drill came in a box with accessories. After attaching the battery to the base, we switched the drill bits in and out by loosening and tightening the chuck.
Ergonomics
While this drill is heavier than the other three products reviewed so far, it still weighs under five pounds. It doesn&#;t have a grip that wraps around the product like the previous three, but it has a grip in the back, and the handle is relatively small, helping it fit comfortably in your hand. Its weight is also balanced from tip to base.
Power
We agree with the customers who said the drill struggles with harder materials. When drilling holes or driving screws into the hard and medium woods, the drill occasionally got stuck. When that happened, we could use the reverse function to pull the bit or screw out and start over.
Runtime
This drill lasted 30 minutes of rigorous use, which is longer than some drills and shorter than others. However, it took the longest to recharge at 3.5 hours.
We gave this drill full points for ergonomics, but we took off points in both the power and runtime categories because it occasionally struggled with harder wood and took a long time to recharge.
In addition to considering a cordless drill&#;s ergonomics, power, and runtime, you&#;ll want to look at other factors like speed and extra drill features before purchasing a cordless drill.
Cordless drills either have a keyed chuck or a keyless chuck. Keyed chucks prevent the bit from falling out during use, but they require a tool to remove the bit. Keyless chucks can be loosened and tightened around a bit without a tool. However, they&#;re more prone to falling out of the chuck because the vibration from using the drill can loosen the chuck&#;s grip.
An adjustable clutch is a helpful feature that sets cordless drill/drivers apart from basic electric drills. Located just behind the chuck, the clutch disengages the drive shaft when a preset level of resistance is reached, preventing overdriving of screws and protecting the motor.
More clutch settings offer finer control over the driving force. High-quality drills often have 24 or more clutch settings, allowing you to fine-tune the power delivery for various screw sizes and materials. When drilling holes, you can bypass the clutch entirely for maximum power.
Most cordless drills have at least two speed ranges, typically around 300 RPM for driving screws and 800 RPM for drilling holes. Higher-end models may offer even higher top speeds, which can be beneficial for drilling into harder materials.
Variable speed control, usually activated through the trigger, allows for precise speed adjustments within each range. This feature is particularly useful when starting holes or driving screws, as it helps prevent slipping and provides better control.
The type of motor in a cordless drill significantly affects its performance, durability, and efficiency. There are two main types of motors:
Brushless motors: Modern cordless drills often feature brushless motors, which offer several advantages. They&#;re more efficient, providing longer battery life and more power for demanding tasks. Brushless motors also generate less heat and require less maintenance, making the drill last longer. While typically more expensive, the benefits often justify the higher cost, especially for frequent users.
Brushed motors: These are the traditional type of motors found in many cordless drills. They&#;re generally less expensive but require more maintenance due to the wear and tear of the brushes. Brushed motors can also be less efficient, leading to shorter battery life.
Some of the most reputable brands for buying drills and other cordless tools include DEWALT, Milwaukee, Ryobi, Dremel, BLACK + DECKER, Makita, Craftsman, Avid, and Bosch. However, that doesn&#;t mean other brands can&#;t also make reputable drills. If buying a drill from a lesser-known brand, just be sure to do your research and ensure it will be a high-quality product that fits your needs.
The price of a cordless drill varies depending on its size, maximum speed, chuck size, and additional features. Lightweight drills that are good small projects can sometimes be found for $50 or less. On the other hand, heavy-duty drills with high RPM and lots of extra features can run well over $500. Most drills will fall somewhere in between, and high-quality drills can be found in the $80-$150 price range.
With all the different models of drills/drivers on the market, it can be difficult to determine if a budget-friendly tool will fit your needs or if you need something more powerful. Take a look at the chart below to help you determine the best cordless drill based on how you&#;ll use it.
Light Maintenance and RepairRepair and RemodelingHeavy-Duty ConstructionJobs-Installing drapery brackets
Comfort and grip are important, especially if you&#;ll be using the drill for extended periods. A well-designed drill should fit comfortably in your hand and offer a secure grip to reduce fatigue and improve control.
In the video below, This Old House&#;s Tom Silva demonstrates how to properly use a drill.
To select products for testing, our team scoured the web for the best cordless drill options. We looked at general factors like Prime shipping eligibility, the number of customer reviews a drill had, average customer ratings, and Amazon superlatives, in addition to factors specific to cordless drills like the manufacturer, voltage, and accessories.
After narrowing down our choices, we ordered the products to be tested and created a series of testing metrics that we would grade the products against. Below is an overview of our testing metrics, process, and scoring breakdown.
To compare cordless drills, we tested the products on factors like ergonomics, power, and runtime.
You&#;ll want a cordless drill that fits comfortably in your hand, isn&#;t too heavy, and has a balanced weight from the base to the tip. Comfort is especially important if you&#;re using the drill for tasks that require you to hold the drill above your head or use the drill for extended periods.
Most drill manufacturers measure nominal voltage, which is the number of volts used while the tool is in use, but some drill manufacturers measure maximum voltage, which is the surge of power that occurs when you first turn on the drill. Cordless drills have a nominal voltage of either 12 volts or 18 volts. If you see a drill with 20 volts, the manufacturer measured the maximum voltage, which translates to 18 volts in nominal voltage.
Twelve volts are usually sufficient for household projects, like driving a screw into the wall to hang a picture. However, if you need a drill for more heavy-duty tasks, an 18-volt drill may serve you better. Keep in mind that cordless drills don&#;t offer as much power as corded drills, so if you need a drill that can drill holes or drive screws through every material imaginable, you may want to buy a corded model.
Having your drill die in the middle of a project and waiting for its battery power to recharge can put your project on hold. Because of this, you may want to invest in a cordless drill with a battery that will last for several uses and has a short recharge period.
Before buying a drill, look at its amp hours, which is the size of the battery&#;s tank&#;more amp hours means a longer runtime. You should also consider how long it takes for the battery to recharge or look for a drill with a spare battery so that you can keep using your drill while the other battery is charging.
When testing ergonomics, we measured three factors&#;weight, comfort, and balance. To measure weight, we weighed each drill with a scale. For comfort, we picked up the cordless drill, drove screws into a 2×4, and analyzed how comfortable the drill felt when performing the task. To measure balance, we held the product to determine if the weight was evenly distributed throughout the drill.
To test power, we drilled holes into three types of wood&#;a soft whitewood, a medium yellow pine, and a hard red oak. Each drill then drove screws into those same types of wood. While performing this test, we measured how easy it was for the drills to drill holes and drive screws, paying particular attention to the difference between the 12-volt and 18-volt drills.
For runtime, we powered the drill until the battery died and then recharged it. We kept track of how long it took for the battery to die and recharge. We compared these times against each other and the manufacturer specifications.
Each testing metric was scored out of five points, and a product&#;s final score was an average of all metric scores combined.
For the weight test, we awarded 2 points to a drill if it weighed five pounds or less. We deducted 0.5 points for every half a pound over five pounds a drill weighed. For example, if a drill weighed 6 pounds, we deducted 1 point.
For the comfort test, we awarded 2 points to a cordless drill if it didn&#;t make our hand hurt while performing the tests. We deducted 1 point if our hand hurt after using the drill or if it felt uncomfortable to use.
For the balance test, we awarded 1 point to a drill if we determined the weight to be evenly distributed throughout the item; we deducted 0.5 points if the weight was unbalanced.
Each drill received six power scores&#;one for drilling holes in whitewood, one for drilling holes in yellow pine, one for drilling holes in red oak, one for driving screws in whitewood, one for driving screws in yellow pine, and one for driving screws in red oak. The scores were based on a scale of 1-5 and were determined by how well the screws went into the wood if the holes were the right sizes, and if the drill struggled at all during the process. A drill&#;s final score was an average of all six power scores.
We compared each drill&#;s battery life and recharge length advertised by the manufacturer to the battery&#;s actual performance, awarding 2.5 points for battery life and 2.5 points for the recharge length. If a drill&#;s battery lasted as long as the manufacturer said it would and recharged in the amount of time the manufacturer said it would, the drill received all 5 points. If it didn&#;t, we docked points from the product&#;s battery score.
If possible, it&#;s helpful to test a drill before buying it. Here are some tips for evaluating a drill in-store or through online research:
Testing a drill in person can help you decide if it&#;s right for your needs. Here are some steps to follow:
When buying online or researching models, pay particular attention to these aspects in user reviews:
Proper maintenance can significantly extend the life of your cordless drill and ensure consistent performance. Here are some key tips for keeping your drill in top condition:
To maximize the utility of your cordless drill, consider investing in these accessories:
Yes. You can buy a variety of accessories to attach to the chuck that will allow you to:
Sometimes, manufacturers will include two batteries with your drill. Having multiple batteries allows you to keep working when the first one dies and prevents you from having to put your project on pause while you&#;re waiting for the one battery to recharge. TheDEWALT drill in this review come with two batteries.
You&#;ll want to keep your hands and face away from the drill to prevent debris from entering your eyes. We recommend wearing work gloves and safety glasses for extra protection.
12-volt drills will be efficient for most home projects. You may also find that 12-volts are easier to use due to their lighter weight. 18-volt drills will last longer, however, making them a good choice for long-term projects. They are also effective when you need maximum torque.
To provide our readers with the best recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of cordless drills with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4&#;5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: Through our years of experience, we&#;ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down further by comparing each model&#;s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIYers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we&#;ve published numerous tool reviews, from cordless drills and impact drivers to tape measures and laser levels.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at .
If you want to learn more, please visit our website Cordless Drill Supplier.
Introduction
Are you tired of struggling to find the perfect cordless power drill that meets all your needs?
With so many options available on the market, choosing the right one can feel like navigating a maze.
Finding the ideal one doesn't have to be a daunting task.
In this guide, I'll walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision and choose the perfect cordless power drill for your needs.
Let's dive in and unlock the secrets!
What is a Cordless Power Drill?
A cordless power drill is a portable tool powered by rechargeable batteries, eliminating the need for a cord. It features a motor that rotates a drill bit to create holes in various materials such as wood, metal, or plastic. Cordless drills offer convenience and flexibility for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.
Benefits of buying a Cordless Power Drill
Investing in the right cordless power drill can be a game-changer for homeowners. Whether you're tackling simple repairs or ambitious renovation projects, having the right tool at your disposal can save you time, effort, and frustration. From assembling furniture to drilling into tough materials, a quality cordless drill is a versatile companion that can handle a variety of tasks with ease.
Cordless Power Drill Features
Cordless power drills are equipped with various features, each serving a specific function to enhance performance and usability. Understanding these features is essential for making an informed purchasing decision. Here's a breakdown of the key features found in most drills:
Power
Power is measured in battery voltage. This metric directly correlates with the tool's torque, its ability to overcome resistance. Over the past decade, top-tier voltage has surged from 9.6 to 18V, presenting a spectrum of options ranging from 6 to 18V. Contemporary high-voltage drills boast formidable power, capable of effortlessly penetrating framing lumber and flooring. Nevertheless, this enhanced power comes with a trade-off: weight. A conventional 9.6V drill weighs a modest 3 1/2 lbs., whereas an 18V counterpart can tip the scales at up to 10 lbs., signifying a notable increase in bulk.
Handles
Handles come in two primary configurations: the pistol grip and the T-handle. Historically, pistol grips dominated the scene, with the handle positioned behind the motor, akin to a gun's handle. However, contemporary cordless models predominantly feature the T-handle design.
The base of the handle widens to prevent hand slippage and accommodate the battery. This placement ensures the battery's weight is centralized beneath the motor, enhancing overall balance, particularly in heavier drills.
Moreover, T-handle drills offer added maneuverability in tight spaces, as the hand is positioned centrally on the drill. Conversely, for tasks requiring robust drilling and driving force, the pistol grip shines, enabling pressure application closer to the bit, thereby exerting greater force on the work piece.
Torque Settings (AKA the Clutch)
The clutch serves as a distinguishing feature setting apart cordless drills/drivers. Situated just behind the chuck, this mechanism disengages the drive shaft upon encountering a predetermined resistance, emitting a distinctive clicking sound.
This action allows the motor to continue running while halting the rotation of the screwdriver bit.
The clutch provides users with precise control, preventing the stripping or overdriving of screws once they're snugly in place. Additionally, it safeguards the motor from damage when encountering significant resistance during screw driving or bolt tightening.
The number of clutch settings varies across drills, with higher-quality models boasting a minimum of 24 settings. With such a range, users can finely adjust the power output of the drill. Lower settings cater to smaller screws, while higher settings are tailored for larger screws. Furthermore, most clutches offer a dedicated drill setting, enabling the motor to operate at full power for drilling tasks.
Speed/Gears
While basic models operate at a single speed, most offer two fixed speeds: 300 rpm and 800 rpm.
The lower speed setting is optimal for driving screws, whereas the higher speed setting is ideal for drilling holes.
A convenient slide switch or trigger mechanism allows users to toggle between high and low speeds, catering to various tasks.
For more intricate carpentry and repair endeavors, opt for a drill featuring the same dual-speed functionality alongside a trigger equipped with variable speed control. This enables users to adjust the speed from 0 rpm to the maximum of each range, providing greater precision and adaptability.
Furthermore, if your projects primarily involve drilling holes rather than driving screws, seek drills offering higher speeds, ideally exceeding 1,000 rpm at the upper end of the spectrum.
Batteries and Chargers
Nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries represent the latest breakthrough in batteries. They offer enhanced performance, being smaller yet more long-lasting compared to standard nickel-cadmium (Nicad) batteries. Moreover, NiMH batteries present a safer disposal option as they lack cadmium, a highly toxic element found in Nicads.
Leading manufacturers such as Makita, Bosch, Hitachi, and DeWalt have embraced NiMH technology, with others poised to follow suit.
Each cordless drill comes accompanied by a battery charger, featuring varying recharge times ranging from 15 minutes to three hours. However, faster charging isn't always advantageous.
While contractors may prioritize swift recharges, slower charging rates are generally acceptable for home use, especially if multiple batteries are available. Moreover, rapid charging can potentially harm batteries by generating excessive heat, unless the charger is specifically designed to mitigate this risk.
For those seeking expedited recharging, tools from Makita, Hitachi, or Panasonic offer viable solutions. Equipped with "smart" chargers featuring temperature sensors and feedback circuitry, these units safeguard batteries from damage while providing a rapid charge in as little as nine minutes.
Keyless Chuck
The chuck at the end of the drill tightens the bits. Adding a bit involves opening the chuck to spread the teeth wide, then tightening it by hand.
Depth Stop
Positioned near the drill bit, the depth stop prevents drilling beyond the desired depth. It is adjustable to accommodate different tasks.
Auxiliary Handle
This provides additional safety and precision during drilling. It can be attached to the left or right side according to your dexterity for better control.
Forward/Reverse Setting
This is a sliding switch feature that changes the direction of the drill's rotation. It is useful for backing out of bored holes or removing screws.
LED Work Light
Positioned above the trigger, this feature illuminates darker work areas, such as attics or basements. It&#;s activated when the trigger is pressed.
Belt Clip
It allows you to hang the drill from your belt, keeping it within reach for quick access and freeing your hands for other tasks.
Matching the Tool to the Job
Choosing the right cordless drill can be a daunting task amidst the plethora of options available. However, it's essential to match the tool to the job at hand to ensure optimal performance and value for money.
Light Maintenance and Repair
For tasks like installing drapery brackets or assembling furniture, a drill with one battery will suffice.
Look for a drill with two fixed speeds, variable speed options, and an adjustable clutch for drilling holes and driving screws accurately.
Models in the 6 to 7.2V range, such as the Ryobi HP61 or Black & Decker KB, offer a perfect blend of power, portability, and affordability.
Repair and Remodeling
Projects involving building storage racks or hanging drywall require more power.
Opt for at least a 9.6V tool, or preferably a 12V drill for increased power.
Look for features like variable speed, two speed ranges, a clutch, and a T-handle for enhanced control and efficiency.
Consider professional-level models like the Hitachi FDS10DVA or Makita DWLEK, which offer the necessary features for these tasks.
Heavy-Duty Construction
Projects such as drilling into pressure-treated wood or masonry walls demand high-voltage tools.
Invest in a minimum 12V or preferably a 14.4V model for these heavy-duty tasks.
Look for features like a 1/2-inch chuck to handle larger bits and longer-lasting NiMH batteries for extended usage.
Consider premium models like the Hitachi DS14DV, Porter-Cable , or Makita DWAE for pure power and reliability.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Cordless Power Drill
When purchasing a cordless power drill, several factors merit consideration to ensure the selection aligns with your needs and preferences:
Battery Voltage: Determine the required power level based on intended tasks. Higher voltage offers greater torque for demanding applications.
Battery Type: Choose between nickel-cadmium (NiCad) or lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. Li-ion batteries tend to be lighter, have no memory effect, and offer longer runtimes.
Chuck Size: Consider the chuck size, which dictates the maximum diameter of drill bits the tool can accommodate. Common sizes include 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch chucks.
Weight and Ergonomics: Opt for a drill that feels comfortable to handle, especially for extended use. Lightweight and ergonomically designed models reduce fatigue.
Speed Settings: Evaluate the available speed settings to ensure versatility. Multiple speed options enable precise control for various drilling and driving tasks.
Clutch Settings: Look for a drill with an adjustable clutch to prevent overdriving screws or damaging materials. A higher number of clutch settings provides finer control.
Chuck Type: Decide between keyless and keyed chucks based on convenience and preference. Keyless chucks allow for tool-less bit changes, while keyed chucks offer enhanced bit retention.
Additional Features: Consider features such as built-in LED lights for improved visibility in dimly lit areas, auxiliary handles for stability, and onboard storage for bits and accessories.
Brand Reputation and Warranty: Research reputable brands known for quality and reliability. Ensure the drill comes with a warranty for added peace of mind.
Price and Value: Balance the features and performance against the budget. Invest in a drill that offers the best value for your specific needs and usage frequency.
Sources
Consumer Reports
Wirecutter
CNET
Amazon Customer Reviews
Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics
Journal of Cleaner Production
Journal of Power Sources
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC)
National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
Construction Industry Institute (CII)
Popular Mechanics
This Old House
Family Handyman
Home Depot
Lowe's
ToolGuyd
Fine Homebuilding
Pro Tool Reviews
The Spruce
DIY Network
Author Bio
Isaac Nunoofio leverages his 10+ years of experience as a ghostwriter for hire to assist businesses struggling with their messaging. His expertise lies in helping businesses grow their audience, engage effectively, and ultimately boost sales.
If you want him to create content for you, message him on LinkedIn now!
#writerforhire #B2Bcontentwriter #ghostwriter #ecommercewriter #homeandgardenwriter
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Cordless Garden Tools. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.