Introduction
We’ve put countless cordless drills to the test, giving us the expertise to guide you in finding the perfect drill for your needs. Whether you prioritize performance, durability, price, value, weight, or size, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover our top recommendations!
Best Cordless Drill Overall
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Impact Drill Generation 4
Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel Impact Drill Generation 4 takes the top spot as the ultimate cordless drill. With improvements in its 4th generation model, it excels in all key categories. It now boasts 1400 inch-pounds of torque, an increase from its previous 200 inch-pounds. The top speed has also been enhanced to 2100 RPM, and the hammer frequency to 33000 BPM. Additionally, the drill features recoil control for the first time, while maintaining its compact 6.9-inch head length with minimal weight gain. This model is also our top choice for the best lightweight drill for heavy-duty use. If you don’t require the hammer drill capability, the model 2903 drill driver version is a great alternative.
Price: $199.00 bare, $299.00 kit including two 5.0Ah batteries and a charger
Best Cordless Drill for Performance
Flex 24V Max Hammer Drill with Turbo
For exceptional performance, look no further than the Flex 24V Max Hammer Drill with Turbo Mode. It remains the top performer across the board. With a top speed of 2500 RPM and a maximum torque of 1400 in-lbs, this drill handles light and heavy-duty tasks with ease. It’s compact, though slightly heavier compared to some competitors. The kit includes two batteries, a charger, and a hard case, all for an affordable $199.00. Register by December 31, 2023, and you’ll receive a lifetime warranty. When it comes to professionals seeking the best value, this drill is unbeatable.
Price: $199.00 for 5.0Ah and 2.5Ah batteries and charger
The Best 18V Cordless Drill is the Best 20V Cordless Drill
Are you torn between the best 18V and 20V cordless drills? The answer is simple – both! 18V and 20V tools have the same voltage. They operate on a 5-cell battery system that combines to deliver a maximum of 20V when fully charged, settling at 18V nominal after usage. Brands like Hilti, Kobalt, and Flex have even introduced 6-core systems like 22V and 24V, offering advantages such as longer runtimes or increased power. Additionally, Makita’s 40V max XGT utilizes a 10-cell system operating at 40 max voltage and 36 nominal voltage.
Best 18V/20V Max Cordless Drill
DeWalt 20V Max Power Detected Impact Drill DCD998
While Milwaukee and Flex dominate the top spots, DeWalt’s 20V Max Power Detected Impact Drill is another outstanding choice. DeWalt offers three main high-performance drills, each catering to different preferences and battery usage. For those using 20V Max 5.0Ah batteries extensively, the DCD996 is the perfect choice. The FlexVolt Advantage DCD999, although slightly heavier, takes your game to the next level when paired with a FlexVolt battery. Alternatively, we prefer the Power Detect DCD998. It performs exceptionally well with a 5.0Ah battery and offers even higher performance with an 8.0Ah battery. Although it may not match the power levels of the FlexVolt Advantage, it doesn’t necessitate the use of DeWalt’s state-of-the-art battery.
Price: $329.00 with 8.0Ah battery and charger
Metabo 18V Cordless Hammer Drill SB 18 LTX-3 BL QI
For exceptional concrete drilling performance, the Metabo 18V Cordless Hammer Drill SB 18 LTX-3 BL QI is second to none. With a top speed of 3800 RPM, it can drill in 1/4″ and 1/2″ concrete. This model is larger and heavier and comes at a higher price point, but it is well-made and features one of the industry’s best LiHD battery packs.
Price: $379.99, includes two 5.5Ah batteries
Best 12V Compact Cordless Drill
Milwaukee M12 Fuel Impact Drill Generation 3
When it comes to the best 12V cordless drill, the Milwaukee M12 Fuel Impact Drill Generation 3 takes the crown. The updated 3rd generation model, the M12 Fuel 3404, delivers 400 in-lbs of torque – an impressive feat for a 12V battery. This model has become even more compact, with a head length of just 5.9 inches, and it is lighter than its predecessor.
Price: $149.00 bare, $179.00 kit with 2.0Ah battery, 5.0Ah battery, and charger
Best Value Cordless Drill
Skil PWRCore 20 Compact Brushless Cordless Drill
When it comes to getting the best value, the Skil PWRCore 20 Compact Brushless Cordless Drill is an excellent choice. Priced at just $99.99, this 2-speed model offers a top speed of 1800 RPM and a brushless motor that provides 450 in-lbs of torque. The 2.0Ah battery doubles as a USB power source, and the kit includes an upgraded PWRJump charger. For the price, it’s hard to beat the value this drill offers. There’s also a hammer drill version available in a kit for $129.99.
Price: $99.99 with 2.0Ah battery and charger
The Best Budget Cordless Drill for Home Use
Ryobi 18V One+ 3/8″ Cordless Drill
If you’re on a budget, the Ryobi 18V One+ 3/8″ Cordless Drill is the perfect choice for home use. Despite its affordable price tag, this drill offers reliable performance, making it ideal for hanging pictures, assembling furniture, and other light household projects. With a speed of 600 RPM and 135 in-lbs of torque, it’s suitable for a variety of tasks. Home Depot is currently offering a sale price of $39.97, so grab it while you can!
Price: $39.97 with 1.5Ah battery and charger
More Cordless Drill Recommendations from Trusted Brands
If you’re looking for even more options, we’ve got you covered. Here are some top recommendations from brands we trust.
Best Bosch Cordless Drill – 18V ProFactor GSB 18V-1330C
Bosch’s 18V ProFactor GSB 18V-1330C Hammer Drill is a high-torque cordless drill that stands out with its advanced battery and brushless motor technology. With a top speed of 2200 RPM, 1330 in-lbs of torque, and an innovative leveling function, this drill offers excellent performance and value.
Price: $149.00 bare metal, $249.00 with 8.0Ah battery and charger
Best Craftsman Cordless Drill – V20 Brushless CMCD721
Craftsman’s V20 Brushless CMCD721 remains the best performing hammer drill in its class. With 2100 RPM, 400 unit watts of power, and a lightweight design, it excels in both power and comfort. Assembled in the USA, this drill guarantees quality and durability.
Price: $179.00 kit with two 2.0Ah batteries
Best Greenworks Cordless Drill – 24V Brushless Drill Driver
Greenworks offers a 24V brushless drill driver that’s perfect for DIY projects around the house. With a top speed of 1450 RPM and 310 in-lbs of torque, this lightweight drill comes with a battery that doubles as a USB power source.
Price: $129.00 with two 1.5Ah batteries and a charger
Best HART Cordless Drill – 20V Brushless HPHD25B
HART’s 20V Brushless HPHD25B hammer drill provides mid-range power with a speed of 2100 RPM and 31000 BPM in high gear, and 650 inch-pounds of torque in low gear. This drill is an excellent choice for those seeking reliable performance for a variety of projects.
Price: $148.00 with 2.0Ah battery and charger
Best Hilti Cordless Drill – 22V Nuron SF 6H-22
Hilti’s SF 6H-22 hammer drill is the best choice in the Nuron platform. With 752 in-lbs of maximum torque and a top speed of 2000 RPM, this drill strikes a perfect balance between size, weight, and performance.
Price: Starting at $199.00 (bare metal)
Best Kobalt Cordless Drill – 24V XTR 1424A-03
Kobalt’s KXHD 1424A-03 stands out in their XTR line of products. With a torque of 1200 in-lbs, a top speed of 2000 RPM, and kickback control, this drill offers great performance and value at an affordable price.
Price: $199.00 kit with 4.0Ah Ultimate Output battery
Best Makita Cordless Drill – 40V XGT GPH01
Makita’s 40V max XGT GPH01 is a compact hammer drill that packs a punch. With 1250 inch-pounds of torque, a top speed of 2600 RPM, and advanced features such as recoil control and electronic clutch, this drill is a top contender for the best overall cordless drill.
Price: $224.00 bare, $424.00 kit including two 2.5Ah batteries and a charger
Best Metabo HPT Cordless Drill – 36V Brushless DV36DA
Metabo HPT’s 36V MultiVolt Hammer Drill offers versatility with its 36V battery that also works with their 18V tools. With 1220 inch-pounds of torque and a top speed of 2100 RPM, this drill is a reliable choice for professional contractors.
Price: $189.00 bare, $289.00 kit with two 4.0Ah batteries and a charger
Best Ridgid Cordless Drill – 18V Brushless R861152
Ridgid’s 18V Brushless R861152 High Torque Hammer Drill delivers impressive power with a maximum speed of 2000 RPM, 32000 BPM, and up to 1250 in-lbs of torque. This drill outperforms many big-name competitors and is an excellent choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
Price: $149.00 bare, $199.99 for two 4.0Ah max output batteries and a charger
Best Ryobi Cordless Drill – 18V One+ HP Brushless PBLHM101
Ryobi’s 18V One+ HP Brushless PBLHM101 is part of their new brushless product line that offers compact and high-performance tools. With 750 in-lbs of low-range torque and a top speed of 2100 RPM/31000 BPM, it competes with the best of the best in its class.
Price: Bare unit $129.00, 4.0Ah high-performance battery and charger $179.00
Cordless Drill Buying Guide – What to Consider
When choosing a cordless drill, there are several factors to consider:
Performance
Performance is crucial, and our top picks excel in this area. We test drills across various materials and categories to ensure they meet practical needs. While every drill has its limits, we ensure they are suitable for their intended tasks.
Size and Weight
In most cases, smaller and lighter drills are preferable as they offer enhanced maneuverability and reduce fatigue. We recommend choosing the smallest and lightest drill that can accomplish your tasks effectively.
Ergonomics
Comfort is essential when using a drill. We consider factors such as handle design and weight distribution to determine which drills offer the best ergonomic experience. Try different models to find the one that feels best for you.
Features to Look For
Different features can enhance your drilling experience. Look for drills with multiple speeds, kickback control, side handles (especially for high-torque drills), smart controls, brushless motors, interchangeable collets, all-metal chucks, LED lights, and leash hooks for convenience.
Price and Value
Consider your budget and aim to maximize value. Compatibility with other tools that use the same battery is worth considering, as this saves you from purchasing different batteries and chargers. Warranty is also important, so check the duration and availability of after-sales service. Having access to physical stores can be advantageous.
Why Use a Cordless Drill?
Cordless drills are essential for both professionals and homeowners, providing the convenience of drilling without the hassle of cords. They allow for easy hole punching in various materials, such as wood, metal, and drywall. Additionally, many cordless drills offer features like clutch settings for precise screw driving and hammering mode for drilling in concrete and masonry.
Why You Can Trust Our Recommendations
At Pro Tool Reviews, we strive to provide trustworthy and reliable information. Unlike other review sites, we thoroughly test and evaluate each tool ourselves. We don’t recommend products solely based on popularity. Our reviewers are professionals in the industry, utilizing their expertise and experience to test tools in real-world scenarios. We also consult with innovators in tool technology and design and work with professional contractors who review products on actual job sites. With our comprehensive approach, you can trust that our recommendations are backed by editorial, scientific, and practical knowledge.
In conclusion, finding the best cordless drill for your needs requires careful consideration of factors such as performance, size, ergonomics, features, price, and value. With our comprehensive guide and top recommendations, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect drill to tackle any project.