Introduction
In the past few months, we’ve conducted extensive testing on various drills, including speed challenges, power assessments, and more. Our goal was to uncover the top 10 cordless drills of the year. Today, we’re excited to reveal the results of our rigorous testing and present to you the best performers in the market.
The Cream of the Crop
When we say these are the top 10 drills, we truly mean it. We’ve carefully selected cordless drills from premium brands that stand out as the best in their respective categories. Our rankings are based on each drill’s performance, and we are proud to endorse each one of them. However, it’s worth noting that not every drill we tested made the cut. To be considered, a drill had to achieve a minimum score of 9 out of 10 on our scoring scale.
Let’s dive into our starting roster and explore the standout features of each drill.
Bosch GSB18V-755C
The Bosch GSB18V-755C is a remarkable 18V hammer drill known for its solid construction, excellent ergonomics, and kickback control feature. Moreover, this drill offers smart features through Bosch’s app when paired with the connectivity module, which can be purchased separately for around $19.
DeWalt DCD998
DeWalt’s DCD998, part of their 20V Max range, impressed us the most among their hammer drills. Equipped with Power Detect technology, this 3-speed model delivers outstanding performance, especially when paired with an 8Ah battery pack or higher. Additionally, it offers a unique 20-minute torch mode, a rare feature in drills.
Flex FX1271T-2B
The Flex FX1271T-2B is a relative newcomer to the premium cordless drill scene. Despite its deceptively compact size, measuring just 7.1 inches in length, this drill packs a punch. It boasts a high gear of 2500 RPM and a low gear with 1400 in-lbs of torque. With the Turbo mode activated by a foot button, it also features an anti-kickback mechanism.
Hilti SF 10W-A22
The Hilti SF 10W-A22 stands out as the only wire-drawing drill in the competition. Don’t let its unique nature fool you; this drill is a serious contender. It offers four speeds, with the lowest providing a versatile 310 RPM and the highest reaching an impressive 2100 RPM. With a torque of 1062 in-lbs, the SF 10W-A22 is a force to be reckoned with.
Kobalt KXHD 1424A-03
Kobalt has stepped up its game with the launch of its XTR line of advanced impact drills. The KXHD 1424A-03, from this line, is not only more compact than its predecessors but also delivers an impressive 1200 in-lbs of torque and a top speed of 2000 RPM. Additionally, it includes kickback control for added safety.
Makita GPH01
Makita introduces the 40V max XGT hammer drill to the competition. Despite its compact size of only 7.1 inches, this drill boasts an impressive 1250 inch-pounds of torque and a top speed of 2600 RPM. With features like recoil control and an electronic clutch for torque control, the GPH01 ensures precision and safety.
Metabo SB 18 LTX-3 BL QI
Metabo’s SB 18 LTX-3 BL QI might not be the most compact drill, but it surely offers exceptional speed. With three gears, it reaches a remarkable 3800 RPM at its peak, making it perfect for quick drilling tasks. Additionally, it features an electronic clutch and pulse mode for repairing damaged fasteners. What sets it apart is its compatibility with batteries that work across multiple brands.
Metabo HPT DV36DA
Metabo HPT’s 36V MultiVolt Hammer Drill has the advantage of using a 36V battery that is also compatible with its 18V tools. This drill offers solid ergonomics, kickback control, and a lifetime warranty. With our performance tests, it proved to be a reliable and powerful tool.
Milwaukee 2804-20
The Milwaukee 2804-20 is the third-generation hammer drill in the M18 Fuel series. It stands out as the most compact model we tested, measuring just 6.9 inches. However, don’t let its size deceive you; this brushless motor-powered drill delivers up to 1200 inch-pounds of torque at 2000 RPM. Additionally, it offers customizable controls, tool tracking, and inventory management with the option to upgrade to the 2806 model.
Ridgid R86115
Ridgid introduces an updated 18V brushless hammer drill, which is more compact and lightweight than their Octane line. Despite its smaller size, it packs a punch with a max output battery that produces up to 2100 RPM and 800 in-lbs of torque.
Performance Results
We conducted various tests to evaluate the performance of these drills. Here’s a summary of our findings:
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Concrete Drilling: Our tests involved using ¼ inch Bosch multi-purpose drill bits to create 3-inch deep holes in solid concrete blocks. Metabo emerged as the winner, with an average time of 2.35 seconds. DeWalt and Flex also performed admirably but were slightly slower.
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Stud Drilling: We used a 1 ½ inch Milwaukee Switchblade Self Feed Drill to assess drilling speed in 2×4 studs. Flex proved its prowess, with an average time of 1.18 seconds. Makita’s XGT followed closely behind, trailed by DeWalt.
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Heavy-Duty Drilling: To evaluate drilling in larger sizes, we experimented with 2-9/16″ bits. Metabo HPT clinched the top spot, with an impressive average time of 1.63 seconds. Makita’s 40V max XGT was the only other drill to complete the task in under two seconds.
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PTR Test Track: Our final test involved a series of challenges, including drywall screw tests, drilling with various bits, and using hole saws. Flex secured first place with a time of 1:56. Makita’s XGT came in second, followed by DeWalt.
Final Rankings
Here are the final rankings of the best cordless drills of 2022, along with their overall ratings:
- Flex FX1271T-2B – 9.8
- Makita GPH01 – 9.7
- DeWalt DCD998 – 9.7
- Metabo HPT DV36DA – 9.6
- Milwaukee 2804-20 – 9.5
- Metabo SB 18 LTX-3 BL QI – 9.4
- Kobalt KXHD-124B-03 – 9.4
- Ridgid R86115 – 9.3
- Hilti SF 10W-A22 – 9.3
- Bosch GSB18V-755C – 9.0
While each drill in this selection offers unique features and performance, the Flex FX1271T-2B emerged as the winner. Despite its larger size, this drill’s exceptional performance and design set it apart from the competition.
We understand that everyone has different priorities when it comes to selecting the best cordless drill. We would love to hear your top picks in the comments below.
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About the author:
Austin Holloway – Video Expert
Austin Holloway is a highly skilled video specialist known for his wild creativity and unwavering passion for baseball. He is primarily responsible for capturing the fast and furious action on the Pro Tool Reviews Youtube channel. With his exceptional camera skills, he makes the PTR team shine in front of the camera.