The 10 Best Cordless Drills For Home Improvement and Professional Projects
In a Hurry? The test winner after 23 hrs of research
Editor’s Pick: DeWalt DCD771C2 20V MAX Cordless Compact Drill
Why is it better?
≫ 300 UWO for high performance
≫ Compact and lightweight design
≫ Made from steel, sturdy build
≫ Ergonomic handle for comfort when using
≫ Bright LED light
≫ 2 batteries included for a long runtime
Picture | Products | Rating/Shop | |
---|---|---|---|
Image | Products Editor’s Pick: DeWalt DCD771C2 20V MAX Cordless Compact Drill | Rating 94 | |
Speed transmision 88% Professional level 95% Durability 92% Features 98% | |||
Image | Products Runner Up/Alternative Pick - Second Best Product: Makita XT269M Brushless Combo Kit | Rating 92 | |
Speed transmision 92% Professional level 92% Durability 89% Features 95% | |||
Image | Products Budget Pick - Best Product on a Limited Budget: Black Decker LDX120C 20V Max Drill/Driver | Rating 90 | |
Speed transmision 84% Professional level 88% Durability 89% Features 96% | |||
Image | Products 20-Volt Pick - Best 20 V Product - Porter-cable 20V PCCK640LB Impact Driver | Rating 92.5 | |
Speed transmision 96% Professional level 92% Durability 90% Features 92% | |||
Image | Products 18-Volt Pick - Best 18 V Product - DeWalt DC970K-2 18V Drill/Driver | Rating 91 | |
Speed transmision 88% Professional level 93% Durability 88% Features 94% | |||
Image | Products Power Pick - Best Power Product - Ridgid Fuego R86008 18V Cordless Compact Drill/Driver | Rating 91 | |
Speed transmision 90% Professional level 92% Durability 89% Features 93% | |||
Image | Products Second Power Pick - Best Power Combo - Ryobi P208 One+ 18V Li-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver | Rating 91 | |
Speed transmision 90% Professional level 92% Durability 90% Features 92% | |||
Image | Products Reasonably Priced Pick - Best Product With a Good Deal - Milwaukee 2691-22 18V Combo Kit | Rating 92 | |
Speed transmision 86% Professional level 95% Durability 92% Features 97% | |||
Image | Products Lightweight Pick - Best Lightweight Product - WORX WX176L 20V 2-in-1 Cordless Drill And Driver | Rating 90 | |
Speed transmision 88% Professional level 88% Durability 90% Features 96% | |||
Image | Products Homeowner Pick - Best Product For Home Use - Bosch Power Cordless Tool Drill Set 18V DDB181-02 | Rating 90 | |
Speed transmision 85% Professional level 88% Durability 90% Features 97% |
1. Editor’s Pick: DeWalt DCD771C2 20V MAX Cordless Compact Drill
Pros:
≫ 300 UWO for high performance
≫ Compact and lightweight design
≫ Made from steel, sturdy build
≫ Ergonomic handle for comfort when using
≫ Bright LED light
≫ 2 batteries included for a long runtime
Cons:
≫ Not suitable for hammer drilling
≫ No hole to keep bits
≫ Batteries aren’t durable
Specifications:
☑ Voltage: 20 V
☑ Speed: 2-speed 0-450/0-1500 RPM
☑ Weight: 3.64 lb.
☑ Power source: 1 lithium-ion battery
☑ Size: medium
☑ Material: steel
☑ Warranty: 3 year limited
What is the best cordless drill on our list and even on the entire market? The answer is the DeWalt DCD771C2 20V compact driver. This model is a fantastic piece of work that will satisfy your every DYI need.
With a built-in motor, this compact drill can deliver up to 300 UWO (Unit Watts Out). What's more, the manufacturer offers a high-speed transmission at 2-speed, 450 and 1500 RPM (revolutions per minute).
The total weight is 3.64 lb., which will allow you to avoid hand fatigue when using it for a prolonged period of time. It's also easy to fit in narrow spaces.
The model features a rubberized ergonomic handle that offers excellent grip and helps you control your drilling precisely.
There are two fast-charging and long-lasting batteries included, so you don't need to worry that your work will suddenly grind to a halt due to running out of power.
This model is an excellent choice for light to medium-level tasks. However, it seems not to be fit for heavy-duty work.
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2. Runner Up - Second Best Product: Makita XT269M Brushless Combo Kit
Pros:
≫ An all-rounder product
≫ Good design and packaging
≫ Powerful drill and driver with high-speed transmission
≫ Ergonomic design for comfort and control
Cons:
≫ Plastic chuck
≫ Problems with the charger
Specifications:
☑ Voltage: 18 V
☑ Speed: 2-speed 0-500/0-2,000 RPM
☑ Weight: 14.7 lb. (total)
☑ Power source: 2 lithium-ion batteries
☑ Size: medium
☑ Material: ABS
☑ Warranty: 3 year limited
There is one more top rated cordless drill that can be your overall favorite.
With the 18 V Rapid Optimum charger included in the combo kit, the complete charge time for this drill is less than 40 minutes. The battery offers up to 50% extra runtime due to the BL brushless motor with electronic control.
There are 2 speed settings: 500 and 200 RPM. The torque is up to 530 in-lb. Although the total weight is 14.7 lb., the driver is only 4.2 lb., which won’t make your arm feel fatigue or soreness.
This Makita compact drill is sturdy enough to stay strong for many years regardless of the environment.
Also, there are many accessories for you to pick up, such as supplement batteries, a grinder, a router, etc.
This model is an ideal choice for daily, use even if it will be used in dusty and harsh environments. No matter who you are, a professional and homeowner, this budget-friendly Makita product will meet your requirements.
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3. Budget Pick - Best Product on a Limited Budget: Black Decker LDX120C 20V Max Drill/Driver
Pros:
≫ Affordable price
≫ Sturdy and durable compact build
≫ Many accessories to buy additionally
≫ Lightweight
≫ Multiple speeds
≫ Comfortable grip
Cons:
≫ Not for professionals
≫ Torque is not strong enough for heavy-duty tasks
≫ Issues with tightening the chuck
Specifications:
☑ Voltage: 20 V
☑ Speed: 650 RPM
☑ Weight: 3.4 lb.
☑ Power source: 1 lithium-ion battery
☑ Style: compact
☑ Warranty: 2 year limited
For those who are looking for an affordable cordless drill for home use, we highly recommend the Black Decker LDX120C 20V MAX.
This model also uses a lithium-ion battery. It can work well on multiple surfaces like wood, metal, and plastic and perform different tasks, including screw-driving.
With an 11-position clutch, you can easily control the tool head positioning without stripping screws.
The compact tool features an LED light that provides you with a clear view when doing your work. Also, it’s lightweight enough not to cause hand fatigue when using it.
Furthermore, this Black Decker model offers many adjustable speeds in order not to damage the surface into which you are drilling.
There are more accessories that come along with this model that you can purchase: a 10-piece drill combo, an inflator, an extra battery, etc.
Due to the sturdy build and design, the longevity of this model is also a significant plus point.
A 2-year limited warranty is enough for this model to be a great gift for both professionals and hobbyists.
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4. Best 20 V Product - Porter-cable 20V PCCK640LB Impact Driver
Pros:
≫ Lightweight
≫ Affordable price
≫ Powerful tool with high-speed transmission
≫ Well-made
≫ Fast charger
≫ Suitable for narrow spaces in medium-sized projects
Cons:
≫ Basic features
≫ No storage in the kit box
≫ Poor customer service
Specifications:
☑ Voltage: 20 V
☑ Speed: variable-speed (0-2,900 RPM/0-3,000 BPM)
☑ Weight: 3.2 lb.
☑ Power source: 2 lithium-ion batteries
☑ Style: compact
☑ Warranty: 3 year limited
If you are looking for the best 20-volt cordless drill, we are here to introduce to you the Porter Cable PCCK640LB.
This model has an excellent ½’’ quick-change hex that allows you to skillfully perform your tasks one-handed.
The LED light will automatically turn ON when the trigger is pulled and switch OFF when your finger releases. However, this feature is inconvenient if you want the light to stay on to make sure that you drive in the screw correctly.
A notable advantage of this drill is a built-in 2-bit magnetic holder that is usually included in top-rated drivers.
The battery is also excellent. There is a light indicator that will warn you when the power level is low. However, this rarely happens because this high-capacity lithium-ion battery can last a long time.
According to the manufacturer, the battery needs around 40 minutes of charging, but many users have claimed that it takes only 15 minutes to be fully loaded and ready to do their projects.
This model is compatible with tight spaces from small to medium-sized projects.
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5. Best 18 V Product - DeWalt DC970K-2 18V Drill/Driver
Pros:
≫ Voltage: 18 V
≫ Speed: dual speed 0-450/0-1500 RPM
≫ Weight: 4.7 lb.
≫ Power source: 2x 18 V NiCAD batteries
≫ Style: compact
≫ Warranty: 1 year limited
Cons:
≫ Old technology
≫ Heavy
≫ Short runtime on a full charge
Specifications:
☑ Voltage: 18 V
☑ Speed: dual speed 0-450/0-1500 RPM
☑ Weight: 4.7 lb.
☑ Power source: 2x 18 V NiCAD batteries
☑ Style: compact
☑ Warranty: 1 year limited
Who makes the best cordless drill? There is no doubt that this prize goes to DeWalt. The DC970K-2 18V Drill from this manufacturer is the next product to be on our list of top picks.
Although the model is from an 18 V entry-level line, it shows its power, durability, and reliability. It is an ideal tool for any homeowner to do their gardening and even heavy-duty jobs.
The ½” chuck size is made of plastic. However, it’s still durable compared to many other expensive models that have a rugged metal chuck.
With 17 clutch settings, this drill is so versatile that it works well on most applications. Additionally, it can deliver 380 UWO, enough for any professional use.
Unlike the models mentioned before, this compact drill uses NiCad batteries instead of the Li-Ion type because of its former broader battery base.
Also, the two included batteries have a capacity of 1.2 Ah, with a runtime of half of that of the DeWalt 18 V XRP. The DW116 charger will require around 1 hour to charge fully.
Overall, this model is worth buying, especially for those who want a high-quality entry-level compact drill.
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6. Best Power Product - Ridgid Fuego R86008 18V Cordless Compact Drill/Driver
Pros:
≫ High-speed transmission
≫ Good warranty policy
≫ Firm grip for control in slippery conditions
≫ Side handle for greater control
≫ Affordable price
Cons:
≫ Neither battery nor charger included
≫ Limited stores to get a full lifetime warranty
Specifications:
☑ Voltage: 18 V
☑ Speed: up to 2000 RPM
☑ Weight: 3.7 lb.
☑ Power source: 2 lithium-ion batteries
☑ Size: full size
☑ Warranty: full lifetime
The model from Ridgid Fuego has 24 position settings and dual speeds up to 2000 RPM that make it one of the most powerful cordless drills on the market. The firm-textured grip allows you to use it in many conditions, even slippery surfaces.
In general, this drill doesn't need to feature many other functions for it to be any fancier.
Unlike many other models, the drill's grip is detachable. You can control power without trouble because of its rubber material and quickly focus on a particular screw.
The brand doesn't offer any battery and charger in the box, so you have to purchase them separately. Although this jumps the price a little bit, the cost of the drill is still low.
With a loyal and kind fan base, this model remains an excellent drill that deserves to be one of the top-rated cordless drills on our list.
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7. Best Power Combo - Ryobi P208 One+ 18V Li-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver
Pros:
≫ Budget-friendly
≫ Portability
≫ Very lightweight
≫ Ergonomic design for comfort and control
≫ 24 clutch settings
≫ Suitable as a household drill
Cons:
≫ No battery and charger included
≫ Problems with the chuck
Specifications:
☑ Voltage: 18 V
☑ Speed: variable speeds 0-440/0-1600 RPM
☑ Weight: 3 lb.
☑ Power source: 1 battery (not included)
☑ Style: compact
☑ Warranty: 3 year limited
This drill is one of the best cordless power tools that you can use to handle many different tasks, even heavy-duty ones.
The ergonomic design allows you to hold the drill without fatigue or inconvenience.
With the two speed settings, you can quickly change the speed according to the work materials when drilling.
The 24-position clutch enables you to control and adjust the torque in order not to damage the drill while the head is moving at high speeds.
The 340 in-lb. of torque is not much, but it can get household tasks done well.
This model also uses 18 V batteries. However, the manufacturer doesn't provide any battery and charger inside the full box, so you have to buy them. It'd better if you choose Li-Ion for the sake of the light weight, compactness, and longevity.
This model is affordable, but you can get more out of it than the price would suggest. This lightweight, compact tool is a perfect portable cordless drill for you.
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8. Best Product With a Good Deal - Milwaukee 2691-22 18V Combo Kit
Pros:
≫ Lightweight and effective tools
≫ Fast charging but long runtime
≫ Long warranty
≫ Durable
≫ 400 in-lb. of torque for higher performance
Cons:
≫ Problems with the batteries
Specifications:
☑ Voltage: 18 V
☑ Speed: variable speed 0-350 RPM/0-1400 RPM)
☑ Weight: 6 lb. (total)
☑ Power source: 1 lithium-ion battery
☑ Size: compact
☑ Warranty: 5 year limited
The Milwaukee 2691-22 is a powerful cordless drill kit for professionals.
The two drills and impact driver are lightweight yet fantastic. Although the price is quite high, you will get the quality and performance you paid for.
In case you are not a professional, it's still an ideal choice to handle housework or DIY projects.
The charger is excellent! It takes 30 minutes to fully charge the battery. Also, with the 2 Li-Ion batteries included, your work will go on without interruption.
Additionally, the manufacturer extends the warranty duration up to 5 years for its customers.
This combo kit, a good option for both professionals and homeowners, will make you happy when using it.
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9. Best Lightweight Product - WORX WX176L 20V 2-in-1 Cordless Drill And Driver
Pros:
≫ Very lightweight
≫ Suitable for even women to use without any fatigue
≫ Switchable between drill and driver for convenience
≫ Suitable for home use
≫ Innovative design
≫ Precise torque control
Cons:
≫ Not for professionals
≫ Affordable if purchased without battery and charger
Specifications:
☑ Voltage: 20 V
☑ Speed: up to 1500 RPM
☑ Weight: 2.9 lb.
☑ Power source: 2 max lithium-ion batteries
☑ Style: switch driver
☑ Warranty: 3 year limited
The WORX WX176L is the lightest drill on the list (2.9 lb.). This lightweight cordless drill will help you do your work quickly. What's more, with the ergonomic design, you can hold it with one hand.
Due to the rotating head that allows you to change between two bits quickly, you can handle two tasks without any interruption.
There is an 11-position electric torque control that can drives screws smoothly.
The dual speed transmission can get power-intensive tasks done. Additionally, this good-looking model also features a reverse gear for some unfastening applications.
Furthermore, this drill also has a brushless motor that is undoubtedly reliable. This system makes the product cooler when running and saves 30-60% of energy compared with a brushed motor, which in turn lengthens its overall lifetime.
Women can use this model comfortably without any trouble. It combines a driver and a drill in a 2-in-1 product, which is compatible for home use.
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10. Best Product For Home Use - Bosch Power Cordless Tool Drill Set 18V DDB181-02
Pros:
≫ Lightweight
≫ Basic but excellent features
≫ High power range (350 in-lb.)
≫ Good design
≫ Suitable for home use
≫ Always ready to use
Cons:
≫ Short warranty
≫ Problems with the chuck
≫ Not durable if regularly used for heavy-duty tasks
Specifications:
☑ Voltage: 18 V
☑ Speed: 2-speed (0-400/0-1300 RPM)
☑ Weight: 3 lb.
☑ Power source: 2 lithium-ion batteries
☑ Style: compact
☑ Warranty: 1 year limited
Bosch is also a popular cordless drill brand on the market. This DDB181-02 is one of the best lightweight yet powerful models from this manufacturer.
Like most of the compact drills on our list, this model is a portable but helpful tool if you are looking to start your work immediately. Also, because it weighs only 3 lb., you don't need to worry about any stress on your arm when holding it for hours on end.
The power range is quite impressive, at 350 in-lb. The dual speed settings (400 and 1300 RPM) are enough to tackle both your daily tasks around your house and your professional projects.
The other features of the DDB181-02 are not significant, but they always show the best performance.
This model from Bosch is a useful and convenient tool that can support you in your tasks.
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To Wrap Up
Our list of top 10 cordless drills includes various kinds of products, from compact to combo kit models, at many price ranges.
Before deciding to purchase any drill, you have to make sure that you’ve read all the information from the manufacturer and reviews from customers.
You should also check the features you want such as volts, UWO, RPM, and chuck size.
It'd better if you determine the purpose before trying to choose the most compatible types.
We hope that you can now choose the right model for your needs. Please leave a comment if you have any questions.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- 01. What is the most important feature of cordless drills?
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If you’re planning to purchase a cordless drill, don’t be tempted by the power rating or the torque of the products. They might come in handy when drilling a hole, but since you’re prioritizing for portability and conveniences, these features aren’t that important.
And at the same time, most professional woodworkers and house remodelers do have their own fully-featured corded drills, which are used for heavy-duty tasks. So it’s not necessary to pack too much power inside your cordless drills. Not to mention that, they’ll also consume more power from the batteries, making the device less resilient for extended works.
And consequently, it is the amount of comfort and control that you can have on the device should matter more than its power. As you’ll be using the cordless drill for many repetitive tasks, a decent ergonomic design is always a must. Plus, the better ergonomic also allows you to fully utilize the torque and power that are packed inside the machines.
- 02. How many volt rating should my cordless drill be for daily uses?
-
Cordless drills were created to assist users in simple and repetitive tasks that need swift completions. So you don’t need them to pack too much power, just for the sake of working. Today, the cordless drill lineups feature products with varied ratings from the light-duty products with 4-8 volts, to the more capable drills with 12-18 volts ratings.
For simple screw driving tasks on electronic components, you’ll find products from the first line-up having lighter weights and more convenient uses. But for most household drilling tasks, products with 12-18 volts ratings are often preferred by homeowners. They pack enough powers and still come with a relatively lightweight for easy-carrying purposes.
And sometimes, you can even go up to the 20V and 22V products, but generally, they’re for drilling through metals and large pieces of woods, and we consider these being too much for simple household tasks.
- 03. What is a brushless cordless drill?
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A brushless cordless drill has no brushes and commutator in its motor. There is a small circuit board to manage the energy distribution to the windings.
Pros of brushless cordless drills:
• Latest technology
• Long-lasting batteries
• Sturdy build
• Reliable and durable
• Decreased noise
• Lightweight
Their average price range is higher than that of standard products.However, they are more comfortable, durable, and lightweight.
So, you will save your money when purchasing a brushless cordless tool that can stay with you for a longer time at a lower repair cost.
- 04. Which feature of a cordless drill/driver do you appreciate most?
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The most appreciated feature of a cordless drill/driver is its durability and battery longevity. Manufacturers should improve the runtime and lifetime of batteries.
If they fail, users have to spend more money on batteries.On the other hand, many brands don’t include a battery and charger inside the box kit.
- 05. Cordless drill or cordless impact driver?
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Before choosing between a cordless drill or impact driver, you should know their differences.
A cordless drill/driver is a supportive tool for drilling holes and driving screws.
A cordless impact driver looks the same as a drill/driver. The significant distinction is a collet for hex-shanked driver bits at the position of the keyless chuck in a drill/driver. The main task of an impact driver is to drive screws in a faster and easier way.
Nowadays, many manufacturers produce 2-in-1 drivers and drills.
Therefore, if you need to drive plenty of screws, an impact driver is the better choice. Alternatively, you should pick a versatile cordless drill/driver or a 2-in-1 model.
- 06. What is a cordless drill?
-
A cordless drill is an electric device that has no cord while the power for it to operate is from a rechargeable battery source.
In general, cordless drills have more basic settings than AC mains-powered drills. Most of them have a positioning clutch to drive screws into multiple types of material without causing any damage.
What’s more, a cordless drill is portable and lightweight enough to fit tight spaces.
There are two common battery types: NiCad and Li-Ion.
NiCad batteries come within an affordable price range. However, they aren’t durable.
On the other hand, lithium-ion batteries have the latest technological advances: fast charging, longer life, and light weight.