The best cordless drills have revolutionized how people approach DIY projects and home repairs, providing a new level of convenience and mobility. With their portability and ease of use, cordless drills have made it easier for people to tackle various tasks around the house, saving time and money.
Best Overall | Bang for Your Buck | Best on a Budget | Premium Buy | Another Great Drill |
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless Drill | Ryobi P1817 18V ONE+ | AVID POWER 20V MAX Lithium lon Cordless Drill | Bosch GDX18V-1860CB15 | BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver |
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A powerful, efficient cordless drill with high performance, ergonomic design, and versatile capabilities suitable for a variety of drilling and driving tasks. | An affordable, versatile cordless drill with features including compatibility with the Ryobi ONE+ system, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers. | A lightweight, compact cordless drill providing versatility and affordability, suitable for various DIY tasks with a focus on ease of use. | A premium two-in-one impact driver with dual functionality, high-speed performance, and a compact design, offering versatility and efficiency. | A compact and lightweight cordless drill driver with variable speed control, affordability, and ergonomic design, making it a reliable and versatile tool. |
What Is a Cordless Drill?
A cordless drill is a type of power tool designed for drilling holes and driving screws. Unlike traditional corded drills, cordless drills are powered by rechargeable batteries, which provide the necessary power to the drill’s motor. Cordless drills typically come in various sizes and styles, with different features and capabilities suited for a range of tasks and projects.
Why Buy a Cordless Drill?
There are many reasons why someone might choose to buy a cordless drill. First and foremost, cordless drills offer a level of portability and convenience that traditional corded drills simply can’t match. With no cords to worry about, users can move freely around their workspace, tackling jobs in hard-to-reach areas without worrying about tripping over cables or finding an available electrical outlet.
In addition to their mobility, cordless drills are also incredibly versatile tools that can handle a wide range of tasks. Whether you’re installing shelves, hanging curtains, or building a deck, a cordless drill can help you get the job done quickly and efficiently. Many cordless drills come with a variety of accessories and attachments, allowing you to use them for tasks beyond just drilling and driving screws, such as sanding, polishing, and even cutting.
Finally, cordless drills can be a valuable investment for anyone who enjoys DIY projects or home repairs. By owning a cordless drill, you can save time and money by tackling many tasks on your own rather than hiring a professional. With a reliable cordless drill in your toolbox, you’ll be ready to tackle whatever projects come your way, whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a homeowner looking to take on some basic repairs.
Cordless Drills: What to Look For
When shopping for a cordless drill, various factors must be considered to ensure you choose the right tool for your needs. Here are ten essential criteria to keep in mind:
Best Overall: DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless Drill
Image credit: DEWALT
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The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless Drill is a high-quality tool designed to efficiently handle demanding projects. One of its standout features is its brushless motor, which provides longer motor life and more efficient performance than traditional brushed motors. With a maximum rotational speed of 2000 RPM and a powerful 20-volt battery, this drill can drill and drive through a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, and concrete. The drill has a maximum chuck size of 0.5 inches, which allows for easy bit changes and provides compatibility with a wide range of drill bits.
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless Drill offers variable speed control, allowing the user to adjust the speed to match the task at hand. It has two speed settings, with a maximum speed of 2000 RPM. This drill also features an ergonomic design with a comfortable grip that helps reduce fatigue during extended use. It comes with two lithium-ion batteries that provide ample run time and quick recharge, allowing the user to work for longer periods of time without having to stop and recharge the battery. The kit also includes a charger, belt hook, and a kit bag for easy storage and transport.
DEWALT is a well-known and respected brand in the tool industry, and the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless Drill is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and performance. The drill weighs 7.31 pounds, making it heavier but easy to handle. The drill is also backed by a three-year warranty, giving the user peace of mind that they are investing in a reliable tool. With its powerful motor, variable speed control, and ergonomic design, the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless Drill is an excellent choice for DIYers and professionals needing a reliable and efficient tool to handle challenging projects.
Bang for Your Buck: Ryobi P1817 18V ONE+
Image credit: Ryobi
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The Ryobi P1817 18V ONE+ kit includes a cordless drill and an impact driver, both powered by two lithium-ion batteries. This kit offers great value for the price, making it an excellent option for those looking for an affordable and reliable cordless drill and impact driver combo for light to moderate DIY projects.
With a maximum rotational speed of 1750 RPM, the drill can handle a variety of drilling and driving tasks with ease, while the impact driver delivers high torque for heavy-duty applications. The variable speed feature allows the user to adjust the speed according to the task at hand, providing versatility and precision for different applications. The kit features two speed settings for both the drill and the impact driver, providing flexibility to tackle a range of tasks.
The compact and lightweight design of both the drill and the impact driver makes them easy to handle and maneuver, while the green color and metal material gives them a sleek and durable appearance. The inclusion of two lithium-ion batteries is also a significant advantage, providing longer run time and reducing the need for frequent recharging. Overall, the Ryobi P1817 18V ONE+ kit offers impressive performance and versatility for its price, making it a smart investment for DIY enthusiasts and homeowners alike.
Best on a Budget: AVID POWER 20V MAX Lithium lon Cordless Drill
Image credit: AVID POWER
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The AVID POWER 20V MAX Lithium-ion Cordless Drill is a versatile and affordable tool that can handle a range of DIY tasks. With a maximum rotational speed of 550 RPM, this drill is suitable for drilling through various materials like thin metal, wood, and drywall. The variable speed feature allows for greater control, making starting a hole or driving screws easier.
This cordless drill has a maximum power of 300 watts and can produce up to 280 pounds per inch of torque, giving it enough capacity to handle tough jobs. The drill comes with a lithium-ion battery pack and a charger, providing up to 300 hours of average battery life. The package includes 10pcs drill bits for wood and metal, 10pcs driver bits, 1pc magnetic flexible shaft, and 1pc extension bar for sticking on a fastener.
The AVID POWER 20V MAX Lithium-ion Cordless Drill is lightweight, weighing just 2.2 pounds, making it easy to handle and control. It also features an LED light, making it easier to work in low-light conditions. The manufacturer provides a two-year warranty for this product. Overall, this cordless drill is an excellent option for people who need a reliable, versatile, and affordable tool for their DIY projects.
Premium Buy: Bosch GDX18V-1860CB15
Image credit: Bosch
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The Bosch GDX18V-1860CB15 is a battery-powered impact driver perfect for construction work and DIY projects. This tool is designed to deliver high performance with a maximum rotational speed of 1860 RPM and a voltage of 18V. The product comes with a 4 Amp battery, ensuring you get a long project runtime.
One of the special features of this product is its variable speed control, which allows you to adjust the speed according to your specific needs. Additionally, it has three-speed settings, making it easy to work on various materials. The Bosch GDX18V-1860CB15 also has a belt clip and a carrying bag for easy storage and transportation.
The package includes a GDX18V-1860C 18V Connected-Ready Two-in-One 1/4 In. and 1/2 In. Impact Driver, a GBA18V40 18V CORE18V Lithium-Ion 4.0 Ah Compact Battery, an 18V Charger, a 4x Bit Holder, a Four-Piece Bit Set, a Belt Clip, and a Carrying Bag. The Bosch GDX18V-1860CB15 has a limited one-year warranty, which can be extended to three years with the ProVantage warranty.
Another Great Drill: BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver
Image credit: Black+Decker
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The Black+Decker 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver is a compact and lightweight tool that packs a lot of power. With a 20V lithium-ion battery, this drill driver provides enough power to tackle a range of projects around the home, from drilling into wood and metal to driving in screws and bolts. The maximum chuck size of 10 millimeters allows for versatile use with a variety of drill bits, while the two-speed transmission allows for easy switching between high-speed and high-torque settings.
One of the standout features of the Black+Decker 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver is its variable speed control. This feature allows the user to adjust the speed of the drill to match the task at hand, providing greater control and accuracy. The drill driver also features an LED work light, illuminating the work area and making it easier to work in dimly lit spaces. The drill driver’s ergonomic design, which includes a soft-grip handle, provides added comfort during use and helps to reduce fatigue, making it easier to work for more extended periods.
The Black+Decker 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver comes with a 20V MAX lithium-ion battery and charger, allowing for convenient cordless use. The drill driver is also backed by a 2-year limited warranty, providing peace of mind for the user. All things considered, the Black+Decker 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver is a reliable and versatile tool suitable for both novice and experienced users. Its lightweight design, variable speed control, and LED work light make it an excellent choice for various DIY tasks, such as hanging shelves, assembling furniture, and more.
How do I choose between different chuck sizes?
The chuck size is a crucial factor as it determines the range of drill bits and attachments your drill can accommodate. Choose a drill with a versatile chuck size (commonly 3/8-inch or 1/2-inch) that suits the majority of your tasks. Larger chuck sizes offer compatibility with more substantial bits, providing flexibility for various projects such as drilling into different materials.
Are cordless drills suitable for professional use?
Many cordless drills, including the reviewed models, are suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Consider the specific requirements of your projects and the features offered by the drill. High-performance cordless drills with brushless motors, variable speed control, and durable build quality are often preferred by professionals for their reliability and efficiency.
Can I use cordless drills for tasks other than drilling and driving screws?
Absolutely. Cordless drills are versatile tools that can handle a variety of tasks beyond drilling and screwing. Many models come with accessories and attachments for tasks such as sanding, polishing, and even cutting. Ensure compatibility with these accessories when choosing a cordless drill to extend its functionality and make it a more versatile addition to your toolkit.
How long does the battery last on a cordless drill, and is it replaceable?
The battery life of a cordless drill varies based on factors such as the tasks performed and the drill’s power settings. Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in cordless drills, offer longer life compared to other battery types. Most cordless drills come with replaceable batteries, and additional batteries can be purchased separately to ensure uninterrupted workflow by swapping out discharged batteries for charged ones.
Can I use cordless drills for heavy-duty construction tasks?
While cordless drills have significantly improved in power and performance, heavy-duty construction tasks might require specialized tools. However, high-powered models like the DEWALT 20V MAX XR and Bosch GDX18V-1860CB15, with their robust features, can handle a wide range of demanding applications. Always check the drill’s specifications and intended use to ensure it aligns with the requirements of your heavy-duty projects.
How long does it take to charge the batteries on cordless drills?
Charging times vary depending on the drill model and the capacity of the battery. Generally, lithium-ion batteries, common in cordless drills, have relatively quick recharge times compared to other battery types. Charging times can range from 30 minutes to a few hours. It’s advisable to opt for drills with fast-charging capabilities if you require minimal downtime between tasks.
Are cordless drills suitable for woodworking projects?
Yes, cordless drills are well-suited for woodworking projects. Their portability and ease of use make them ideal for tasks like drilling pilot holes, driving screws, and assembling wooden structures. When choosing a cordless drill for woodworking, consider its power, variable speed control, and the availability of accessories like wood drill bits and screwdriver attachments.
What safety precautions should I take when using a cordless drill?
Safety is paramount when using any power tool. Here are some essential precautions:
Can I use cordless drills in cold weather conditions?
Cordless drills are designed to withstand a range of temperatures, but extreme cold can affect battery performance. In colder climates, it’s advisable to keep spare batteries warm and swap them out as needed. Additionally, store your cordless drill in a protected, dry area when not in use to prevent any adverse effects on its functionality due to cold weather.
