Shopping can be overwhelming at times. If it is the best cordless drill you need, then below are reviews of the most recommended products in the market today.
Anyone will find it challenging to look for the best cordless drill since manufacturers often offer dozens of them. With the number of manufacturers in the market, your options are literally hundreds. Knowing what to look for in a drill is essential, which is why we have this review for you and so that you can never regret the drill or impact driver you buy.
Having been doing plenty of automotive, product assembly, and small handy work around the house, you know how vital a cordless drill is. While a corded drill allows you to work on many different jobs, it is not easy to use. It lacks the cordless drill’s maneuverability and convenience.
It is great that over the years, drills have improved a lot. If you search well enough, you can find the best cordless drill for home use. But, if you are not sure where to start, then this article can certainly help.
Best Cordless Drills
Makita XFD131 18V LXT Cordless Driver-Drill Kit
The Best for Creative Worksites
- 18 voltage
- 900rpm speed
- 440inches pounds torque
- 3.8lbs
- 10.6 x 15.08 x 6.06”
- Compatible with 18V Lithium-Ion batteries (Makita)
Makita XFD131 is a cordless driver-drill kit ideal for creative worksites, as well as house works. It is a brushless drill driver with functions, weight, and force a little different than your standard drills. For one, it is lightweight and has less torque production. With 2-speed variations, you can use it smoothly and quickly on various materials.
Its maximum torque is 440 inches pounds, providing you with much more extra force when working. As it removes carbon brushes from the machine, you can also use it for a longer time. Besides these features, there is a built-in LED light. Thanks to this, you can use Makita XFD131 even in the darkest areas of your workspace.
It is great that this is lightweight at only 3.8 pounds. With that, you can easily maneuver the drill when working on any project. It is also comfortable to use as its handle is soft and rubber-coated. Even when you grasp it tightly, many users say that you will not feel tired as much. Since it is compact, carrying it along anywhere is also a breeze.
- Lightweight and compact
- Enough power for rough tasks
- Instant recharging
- Dual LED lights (built-in)
- A bit noisy when drilling metal
BLACK+DECKER (LDX120C) 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver
The Best Cordless Drill Under $50
- 20V voltage
- 650rpm speed
- 3/8inch chuck size
- 11 clutch setting
- Lithium-Ion Technology
- Includes 1 drill, 1 battery, 1 charger, & 1 double-ended bit
The Black + Decker LDX120C is the best budget cordless drill ideal for basic household tasks. It is a nice choice if you don’t have high expectations and have a tight budget. It is not the best 20v cordless drill out there, but it can handle most light-duty tasks.
It is also isn’t for pros, but this compact drill driver lets you dig through plastic, metal, and wood with ease. For a small size, it is packed with features, such as 11 position clutch, variable speed function, and adjustable transmission.
LDX120C is compact and lightweight, meaning you can use it for a longer time without feeling too fatigued. Even when using it in confined spaces, you can maneuver it well. It is a complete package and the best cordless drill for its value.
- Versatile and powerful battery
- Lightweight and compact design
- Numerous chuck positions
- Poor chuck quality
- Low torque
Metabo DS18DBFL2QB HPT 18V Cordless Driver Drill
Most Complete Cordless Drill
- 18V voltage
- 620inch pounds torque
- 380g weight
- 6.9″ head length
- 22+2 clutch settings
- Includes 1 drill driver, 1 battery, 1 #2 Phillips bit, & 1 charger
Besides concrete testing, all the characteristics of Metabo DS18DBFL2QB seem to be on par as a hammer drill. Although, the features of this cordless drill are the least of the things that make it awesome. They are great and will get the job done, but doesn’t include any smart controls.
Metabo HPT features 2-speed brushless motor, 22+1 clutch settings, and keyless all-metal ratcheting chuck. Moreover, it has a metal belt hook and an LED light. All these are standard features designed so that you can avoid major pitfalls when using the drill. What puts this cordless drill as one of the best 18v cordless drills is its performance.
It provides some serious torque for a lightweight, compact drill. It also has some pretty good deal of speed with more balance. It is solidly efficient for more complex tasks than one would think. At 6.9″ long and 380g weight, it is light enough for excellent maneuverability.
- Excellent quality
- Efficient drilling performance
- The battery is easy to remove and insert
- Doesn’t have any special or unique features
DEWALT (DCD791D2) 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver Kit
Compact with Sufficient Power
- 2 XR Li-Ion batteries
- Spotlight mode
- 6.9″ head length
- 3.4lbs weight
- 1/2″ ratcheting chuck
- 20V voltage
With an excellent reputation behind its back, the Dewalt DCD791D2 is one of the best cordless drills under $100. Users find it quite easy to use, having been built in a way that can handle the toughest DIY work. It has excellent construction and design that makes it comfortable to use.
The best Dewalt cordless drill, it has great size – light enough for easy handling. With its center of gravity just above the grip, this drill stays stable while you’re doing your projects. Along with the small grip, this cordless drill makes it super functional.
It is travel-size, so bringing it around is never a problem. This size also makes the drill ideal to use when you work in smaller spaces. With the 3-mode LED lighting, users find it extra useful when in dimly-lit or darker workspaces.
- Helpful LED light
- Compact and lightweight size
- Sturdy metal chuck
- Portable and easy to use
- Tends to fall off
Bosch GSR18V-190B22 18V Compact 1 2″ Drill Driver Kit
An All-Around Average Cordless Drill
- 480 inches pounds torque
- 20+1 clutch settings
- 1/2″ chuck
- Auto-lock
- Two-speed settings
Bosch GSR18V is a solid cordless drill with average features. It does not have as much power or convenience features as premium models. However, it is more than enough for most home improvement and DIY projects.
In terms of performance, it has enhanced torque rating being able to deliver 480 inches pounds of torque. It also has 20+1 clutch settings and keyless ratcheting 1/2″ chuck that has an auto-lock. All these contribute to the drill’s improved accuracy and productivity.
Since it is compact and light, it easily fits into tight spaces. Together with the soft-grip handle, using this drill is pretty easy. Bosch GSR18V also has a built-in LED light, allowing you to work in dim-lit areas without worry.
- Lightweight and compact
- Can be used n dark or dim areas
- Can lock automatically
- Built-in LED
- Average runtime
Milwaukee M12 12V 3 8-Inch Drill Driver (2407-20)
Super Lightweight and Compact Hammer Drill
- 6.2 x 1.79 x 6.48 inches
- 0.38 inches chuck size
- 6300 BPM
- 900 RMP
- Up to 275inches pounds torque
- 2.43lbs weight
With how compact the Milwaukee M12 is, you might think at first that it is a toy. But, it is actually the best 12v cordless drill out there – lightweight, durable, and comfortable to use. Since it is small, you can use it in tight spaces and for overhead work, even for a long time.
Using this drill, users say that they can do any job with ease thanks to the 6200 BPM and 900 RPM. Also, thanks to its electro-pneumatic hammer, you can use it to drill through stone, masonry, and concrete.
This tool has two modes of operation – rotation only and rotary hammer. As it has an LED light system, it is also great for when working in dim-lit areas. It does not have a lot of drawbacks, thus making it one of the best lightweight cordless drills on the market today.
- One-handed operation
- Lightweight and compact
- LED light
- Low price
- Doesn’t have a side handle
- Bulky carrying case
WORX WX176L Cordless Drill and Driver
The Best 2-in-1 Combo Tool
- 9 x 3.5 x 8.5 inches
- automatic torque control
- 2 speeds
- Rotating 1/4″ chucks
- Drill/drive control
- Lithium 20V battery
For homeowners who cannot own multiple drills, Worx WX176L is an excellent option. It is an excellent all-around drill with the convenience of both drill and driver. But to be able to use it fully, you will need 1/4″ hex shanks for the accessories.
Its main feature is the rotating dual chucks, which you can use by simply pulling the red trigger and then rotating it. In a second, you can switch from drill to driver. These make the drill good enough for most tasks around the house.
Another notable feature is the electronic torque control dial, which offers you some control. With an impressive 1260 RPM, it is powerful enough. It is long at 7.6″ by 8.4″ with an average torque rating of 96 in-lbs., but still one of the best cordless drill drivers.
- Portable
- Two tools in one
- LED light
- Lightweight
- Only for light use
PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Cordless Drill Kit (PCC608LB)
The Best for DIY and Home Improvement Projects
- 20V voltage
- 7.4 x 3.7 x 9.5 inches
- 360 MWO power
- 1700 max RPM
- 8″ head length
- 3.2lbs weight
One of the best small cordless drills, Porter-Cable 20V is ideal for DIY projects and all-around tasks. Like all the other drills in this review, it is compact and light that fits well in the hands of both men or women.
It is a high-performing drill, but not for heavy-duty tasks. It is powerful enough to be able to drill through plastic, metal, or wood. The battery it uses is low maintenance, which is another advantage since it means that you can use it for much longer than usual.
This drill is convenient to use and full of features such as the 23 clutch settings and ½-inch keyless chuck. With the added benefit of LED light, Porter-Cable 20V cordless drill is just right if you work on dark areas.
- Drills holes quickly
- 2-speed gearbox
- Compact and lightweight
- Not for heavy tasks
How to Choose a Cordless Drill
From the reviews above, you now have a starting point on where to look for the best cordless power drill. But to help you further narrow down the choices, below are some tips on how to choose the right cordless drill for your needs (also applicable for hammer drills).
Battery
Since these items are cordless drills, the machine works on batteries instead. In that case, you should carefully look at the battery type and voltage. Besides it giving you an excellent durable of use, you want a battery that will give enough power as well. This thought will then make you consider how important battery life and usage is for a cordless drill.
Ease-of-Use
Comfort and maneuverability are essential when it comes to tools. After all, the use of tools is meant to make your work easier. In the case of cordless drills, look for those with soft grips, that are lightweight, and compact to fit firmly in your hands. A convenient handle may also come in handy in certain situations too. That way, you can use the drill for long periods of time with less fatigue on your hands.
Speed
The speed of the drill blade is critical, particularly if you are looking for a drill for professional use as it lets you know of how much force the drill can make. When looking for the best compact cordless drill capable of heavy-duty tasks, then look for ones with higher RPMs because the higher the RPM, the greater the power capability.
Torque
The torque of your drill refers to the force that allows the drill to penetrate hard surfaces. Therefore, drills with higher torque mean that penetrating harder surfaces like metal and concrete will be much easier and smooth.
Clutch
Having an adjustable clutch is actually what separates an electric drill from a cordless drill. The clutch is practically what controls your drill’s torque. By having a certain number of clutch, you can determine the amount of torque or twisting power the drill produces. So, the higher the number, the more torque is given to the screw. When deciding how much clutch your drill should have, you want to take into account what surfaces you will be drilling on. If you have delicate surfaces to work with like a drywall, then you will want a good clutch control to avoid overdriving screws into your walls.
Product Rating
When considering each of these qualities above, remember that all of them have an effect on each other. For example, a higher battery capacity means more energy for torque. So, be mindful of which quality matters to you more – which you can decide based on your workload or type – because no product will be perfect in all these areas.
Besides the qualities mentioned, you should also look for the ratings and prices of each product. Many users often give reviews, which you should consider as well for greater insights. With the ratings they provide, you can have a good idea of how the drill works despite not seeing it personally. As for the price, you should look for one that is within your budget. Of course, still pick the most efficient and better quality tool for your needs and avoid ever compromising quality when it comes to tools.
In Summary
Lightweight, compact, efficient, and durable – these are the most important qualities that the best cordless drill has. Most of the cordless drills in this review article have them, so that won’t be a problem as much on your part. However, they are ideal mostly for lightweight tasks such as DIY and home improvement projects, so don’t forget to keep in mind what you need a drill for in the first place.