Best Cordless Drills
Pros and Cons
- Lightweight and easy to handle.
- Delivers reliable power for accomplishing numerous jobs.
- Users rave about the long battery life and comfortable, grippy handle.
- Comes at a mid-range price point.
- Doesn't come with a battery.
- A few owners had issues with the chuck not working properly.
Pros and Cons
- A reasonably priced powerhouse set that comes with a drill, battery, charger, and a bit that is capable of handling plastic, wood, and metal.
- Ergonomic, soft-grip handle helps battle user fatigue.
- Handles most DIY home projects with ease.
- If you plan on doing a lot of work, it's best to purchase a backup battery as well.
Pros and Cons
- Stands out for offering 2 rugged power tools by a top name in the industry.
- 20-volt impact and drill drivers built to tackle tough jobs.
- Comes with 2 batteries, a charger, and a carrying bag.
- Some battery issues have been documented – failure to hold charge, dead batteries upon arrival.
- A few complaints of loose chucks and of drills "smelling hot" during use.
Pros and Cons
- It offers 15 torque settings for precise control to prevent screw stripping whether you're working with metal, ceramics, wood, or plastics.
- The ergonomic design with the rubber grip makes it comfortable to hold for extended periods.
- It has a variable speed setting from 0 to 550 rpm.
- The battery takes a long time to charge.
Pros and Cons
- The batteries feature advanced cooling technology, which allows them to run up to 25% longer than standard 2.0Ah batteries and last twice as long.
- The half-inch keyless chuck allows for quick bit changes, and you can toggle between low and high-speed settings depending on the job.
- Drill bits aren't magnetic.
Pros and Cons
- The 12V Max drill gets small jobs done with ease.
- It's lightweight despite its strong performance.
- Precise, ergonomic controls and two speed settings let you adjust to the task at hand.
- People who just want the basics will appreciate the simplicity.
- Delivers enough power for DIY projects and laborers.
- Unfortunately, this model doesn't have the drill bits like several other sets.
Pros and Cons
- Craftsman drill with an impressive warranty.
- Comes with a battery and charger.
- The 20V model charges in about 60 minutes and provides impressive runtime.
- Built-in LED light is highly effective at illuminating areas while you work.
- It charges quickly and gets a notable runtime for fast and efficient work.
- Not as durable as some pricier models, and not powerful enough to drill through some materials.
Pros and Cons
- Has a torque of up to 1,400 pounds.
- The turbo mode provides extra power when you really need it.
- Has an anti-kickback safety mechanism that protects you from injury.
- Includes an LED light for working in low-light spaces.
- Some users had issues with wobble in the chuck.
Pros and Cons
- This drill sports a compact build that makes it easy to stash in a toolbox or bag.
- Straightforward to use, even for novices.
- Fairly lightweight, yet has a solid feel in the hand.
- Great for beginners who don't plan on using drills on a regular basis.
- Underpowered compared to some competitors.
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Pros and Cons
- It features a high-performance motor and high-speed transmission that delivers two speeds for versatility on the job.
- Bright LED helps you see what you're working on.
- Ergonomic grip keeps your hand comfortable.
- Some users say the battery life is shorter than they expected.
We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.
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best cordless drills
Ready to buy now? Shop the best:
- Best of the Best: Milwaukee M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver
- Best Bang for the Buck: Black+Decker 20V Max Powerconnect Cordless Drill/Driver
- Trusted Brand: DeWalt 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
- Comprehensive Kit: Avid Power 20V MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill
- Best for its Lightweight Design: SKIL Power Core Brushless 20V 1/2" Drill Driver Kit
- Easy to Use: Bosch PS31-2A 12V Max 3/8 Inch Drill/Driver Kit
- Best Basic Drill: Craftsman V20 Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
- Most Powerful: FLEX 24V Brushless Cordless 1/2-Inch 2-Speed Hammer Drill
- Best for Tight Spaces: Makita XPH10Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 1/2" Hammer Driver-Drill
- Powerful Kit: DeWalt 20V MAX XR Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
A cordless drill is often the first power tool someone buys, and for good reason. It’s perfectly suited to household maintenance and can help craftspeople complete amazing projects. But cordless drills come in many forms, power levels and even motor types, so it’s important to do your homework to ensure you get the right one for your needs.
To help you narrow down your options, we researched dozens of drills, looking at features such as power, speed settings and ergonomics. To determine the best cordless drills, the Vanke Testing Lab put our top contenders through a rigorous evaluation. We assessed their drilling and driving capabilities, along with factors like durability and the usefulness of any extra features.
In the end, we found the best cordless drill to be the Milwaukee M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver. A top-performing tool with a compact build and plenty of power.
Editors' picks
Milwaukee M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver
Editors' Favorite
Voltage: 18 | Battery Type: Not available | Chuck Size: 1/2" | Speed Settings: 2 | Weight: 2.3 lb
Milwaukee Tool has been in business for 100 years, and they’re continued commitment to quality shines with the Milwaukee M18.
This drill dominated our speed tests, effortlessly powering through various materials. It blasted through a two-by-four with a 1-inch hole saw in just 13 seconds and a paddle bit in a mere three seconds. It consistently drilled through 16-gauge sheet metal with different bits in an average of only six seconds each. The driving performance was equally impressive, sinking 3-inch wood screws in five to six seconds.
This Milwaukee drill is crafted with high-quality materials, it’s comfortable to hold and has a useful onboard LED light. However, a battery is not included.
BLACK+DECKER 20-Volt Max POWERCONNECT Cordless Drill/Driver
Great Value
Voltage: 20V | Battery Type: Lithium Ion | Chuck Size: 10" | Speed Settings: Variable | Weight: 3.12 lb
The Black+Decker 20-Volt Max Powerconnect is one of the best budget-friendly drills for those who need a reliable, yet powerful tool to help them complete their DIY projects.
It features an ergonomic design with a soft-grip handle, making it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. It’s excellent for drilling into thick materials, such as wood, metal and plastic, thanks to the 750 RPM motor with 300 lb-in of torque. The 24-position clutch prevents screw stripping, and the battery can retain its charge for up to 18 months.
The drill/driver itself is sufficient to complete most jobs, but the comprehensive kit is the real draw here. The set includes everything you need to get started, including a brad‑point drill bit, 1-inch and 2-inch driver bits, nut drivers and a magnetic bit holder. Plus, you’ll get a case for keeping everything organized.
Avid Power 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill
Comprehensive Kit
Voltage: 20 | Battery Type: Lithium-ion | Chuck Size: 1/2" | Speed Settings: 16 | Weight: 3.64 lb
The affordable Avid Power 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill is an excellent option for DIY projects because of its compact build and user-friendly operation. It comes with a lithium-ion battery pack and features a display that lets you monitor the battery life in real time.
It boasts a max torque of 280 inch-pounds and a 0-550 RPM variable‑speed motor, which makes it effective on various materials, including ceramic, wood, metal, drywall and plastics. The 15+1 clutch settings allow for precise control while screwing and crilling and help prevent screw stripping. Also, the keyless chuck enables you to change bits quickly.
This drill is designed for maximum comfort. It has a rubber grip and a built-in LED light for working in low-light environments. It’s not as powerful as other drills, but it’s a great option for home DIY projects. Plus, the kit comes with 22 bits, an extension bar and a flexible magnetic shaft.
Bosch 12-Volt Max Drill/Driver Kit
Best Drill Kit for Apartment Dwellers
Voltage: 12 | Battery Type: Lithium-ion | Chuck Size: 3/8" | Speed Settings: 20 | Weight: 1.8 lb
This itty-bitty Bosch 12-Volt Max Drill/Driver Kit is exactly what every small-apartment dweller needs for multiple reasons. Its compact size is perfect for getting into those minuscule spaces, plus even its storage bag, battery and charger are all only as large as they have to be.
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Its small chuck and low power isn’t enough for a workshop, but it’s more than enough for building premade furniture or doing little maintenance tasks around your home that your complex’s maintenance staff don’t handle. It offers 20 clutch settings in case you do need to perform the occasional difficult task.
It doesn’t skimp on the extra features either, despite a low cost. It has an LED work light that helps with dark places and a battery fuel gauge so you’re not surprised when your battery dies midtask.
DeWalt 20-Volt Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
Customer Favorite
Voltage: 20 | Battery Type: Lithium-ion | Chuck Size: 1/2" | Speed Settings: 16 | Weight: 3.64 lb
Our hands-down favorite, the DeWalt 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit is well-positioned to handle a huge range of tasks thanks to its versatility. The included 20-volt battery delivers an impressive 300 watts of power, ensuring it can handle practically whatever you throw at it.
The DeWalt’s 16 variable speed options mean you always have precise control while drilling — that way you can prevent damage to your drill and the materials you’re working with, and reduce the risk of injury. The large, half-inch chuck lets you use a wide variety of drill bits, making the drill even more adaptable for various drilling tasks.
The rest of the kit includes a storage bag, a charger and two small batteries instead of just one. This makes the kit excellent for starting and maintaining a DeWalt tool collection.
Ryobi One+ 18-Volt Cordless Drill/Driver (Tool Only)
Best Budget Brand
Voltage: 18 | Battery Type: NA | Chuck Size: 1/2" | Speed Settings: 22 | Weight: 1.5 lb
The Ryobi One+ 18=Volt Cordless Drill/Driver delivers impressive drilling performance for its price. During testing, it tackled various drilling materials with ease. For instance, a 1-inch hole saw drilled through a two-by-four in 30 seconds, a half-inch bit made it through 16-gauge sheet metal in 13 seconds, a quarter-inch bit powered through metal in five seconds and a 1-inch paddle bit went through a two-by-four in just five seconds. Though we sometimes needed to apply more pressure to keep it steady, its driving performance was strong overall.
This Ryobi drill is part of the Ryobi ONE+ system, meaning the battery you use with this tool can be used with practically any other Ryobi power tool. This is a great money-saving advantage if you already own Ryobi tools or a charger, or plan to expand your Ryobi collection in the future.
While the LED work light could be brighter for improved visibility, this Ryobi drill impressed us with its exceptional durability in drop tests, showing minimal wear. We think, for the price, you won’t be disappointed.
Makita 18-Volt LXT Driver/Drill Kit
Best Battery Efficiency
Voltage: 18 | Battery Type: Lithium-ion | Chuck Size: 1/2" | Speed Settings: 21 | Weight: 3.6 lb
The real joy of the Makita 18-Volt LXT Drive/Drill Kit is its excellent battery life. The 3-ah battery it comes with lasted about an hour and 10 minutes and was the only battery among the drills we tested to last over an hour. It’s also durable with a strong LED work light.
This drill impressed with its lightning-fast drilling speeds. It punched through a two-by-four in a mere five seconds, nearly completing the hole in one go (though we did need to finish from the other side). The paddle bit test was similarly quick, averaging three to four seconds with some occasional catching. Sheet metal drilling was also efficient, taking an average of seven seconds across two different bit sizes.
The drill's power extended to driving tasks as well. It effortlessly handled getting a 3-inch wood screw into a sturdy four-by-four beam. So, if you’re looking for power — you found your match!
What to consider when buying a cordless drill
Brushed vs. brushless motor
Brushed motors use coils that rotate around magnets. Due to friction, the motor’s carbon brushes gradually wear down over time and either the brushes or the motor itself will need to be replaced. Because brushed motors lack durability, few drills use them despite their lower cost. That said, drills with brushed motors are a fine choice for those who need a drill for occasional projects and minor repairs.
Brushless motors use a magnet that rotates around coils. This more popular, lightweight motor, which is ideal for professionals or anyone with heavy-duty tasks, provides greater power, efficiency and longevity, but it costs more.
Battery power
Battery power is measured in volts. The more volts, the more powerful the drill, and the more torque it can muster. The majority of cordless drills are 12-volt, 18-volt or 20-volt tools. The 12-volt models are sufficient for most household tasks, but if it’s within your budget, you can’t go wrong with the extra power offered by an 18-volt or 20-volt option. Many quality cordless drills come with two batteries, so one can charge while the other is in use.
Battery type
While you can still find drills powered by nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries, they’re not as common as lithium-ion (Li-ion) models. In general, Li-ion batteries provide longer run time and more power. Plus, they don’t contain cadmium, an environmentally harmful metal. Li-ion batteries are also lighter than NiCd batteries.
Speed
Typically, cordless drills have low-speed and high-speed settings. A lower speed provides more torque (twisting power) for driving screws, while a higher speed is used for drilling holes. Some models also have a variable speed lever so you can set a more specific speed.
Variable clutch
A cordless drill’s clutch stops the rotation of the drill bit once a set resistance is reached. This prevents stripping and over-tightening a screw. Variable clutch settings let you tailor the resistance to your needs. Usually, low resistance is for small screws and high resistance is for large screws.
Chuck size
The chuck is the part of the drill that holds the bit. Some less-expensive models only have a 3/8-inch chuck, but most cordless drills have a 1/2-inch chuck, which is far more versatile.
Extras
Some drills come with some small extra features to make your task easier. The most common of these is a built-in LED light that comes in handy when you’re drilling in a dark or recessed location. Another is a belt hook, which can be handy when you’re working on a ladder or walking around a project site.
Tips for using your cordless drill
- Drilling a hole to a specific depth? Wrap a bit of colorful tape around your drill bit at the desired depth. When the tape hits the hole, you’re there.
- Not sure what size drill bit you need? It’s better to err on the side of too small than too large. After all, you can always make the hole bigger, but it’s hard to make it smaller once you’ve over-drilled.
- Always start drilling at a low speed. Increase speed as needed.
- Typically, your drill will have a lever to set the direction forward (driving screws in) or reverse (unscrewing screws). If the lever is set in between the two directions, it’s locked. So, if you can’t figure out why your drill won’t spin, check the direction lever.
- Remember that the larger the drill bit, the more powerful the torque.
- Hold your drill so the bit is at a right angle to the work surface. This will prevent the bit from skittering or breaking as you work.
- Wear eye protection when you use any power tool. Dust from paint, wood, drywall or masonry can do serious damage to your eyes.
- If you’re drilling a deep hole, periodically pull the bit out, and dust or blow away the accumulated sawdust and grit.
- Unless you’re drilling into a wall or similarly fixed object, clamp the item before starting to drill.
- A good, basic set of drilling and driving bits should accomplish just about anything the average homeowner or casual DIYer needs to do. Common types of drill bits include:
- General purpose
- Phillips head for use with that type of screw
- Metal or high-speed steel (HSS) for drilling into metal
- Auger for deep holes
- Spur point for wood
- Tile or glass bits for working with those materials
- Spade bit for large holes in wood
- Hole saw for even larger holes in wood
- Masonry bit for concrete, brick or stone
- Countersink: These cut a tiny bit of extra space for the screw’s head
- Sanding bits: These are wrapped with sandpaper and are extremely useful for smoothing surfaces before painting, priming, and such
How we tested
To determine the best cordless drills for a variety of needs, we conducted a rigorous testing process on seven drills from six leading brands, encompassing a range of power levels. Each drill underwent identical tests designed to assess real-world performance. Here's a breakdown of our testing methodology:
Drilling performance: We evaluated drilling capabilities through tests using various bit types and materials. This included drilling small holes in wood with paddle bits and hole saws, simulating common DIY tasks.
Driving performance: The drills were put to the test by driving 3-inch wood screws and 5-inch lag screws, assessing their power and ability to handle demanding jobs.
Durability: We tested the toughness of each drill by subjecting them to controlled drop tests, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of everyday use.
Battery efficiency: Battery life is crucial for cordless tools. We measured the runtime of each drill to determine how long they can last on a single charge.
By analyzing the combined results from these tests, we were able to identify the top performers that offer exceptional drilling and driving capabilities, durability and battery efficiency.
FAQ
Q. Are cordless drills less powerful than corded drills?
A. Generally, yes. A corded drill delivers more torque than one running on batteries. However, this is typically only something to keep in mind if you plan to do heavy-duty jobs.
Q. Can I use a cordless drill to mix paint?
A. Yes. You can purchase bits that are specifically designed to mix paint. Simply attach the bit to your drill as you would any other, dip it into your bucket and mix as needed. Be sure to wear eye protection.
Q. Can I use a battery with a different voltage than the one my drill came with?
A. This practice should generally be avoided. Using a battery with a lower voltage than your drill will adversely affect the tool’s performance. In that same vein, using a more powerful battery than appropriate can overload your drill and ruin it.
Our expertise
Kevin Luna has a love for all things tech, sports, fitness and gadgets. As a longtime writer for Vanke, he enjoys writing engaging, high-quality guides to help shoppers make smart buying decisions.
Jordan Woika researched and tested a wide range of drills from top brands for this article. Specializing in tools and appliances for the home, he has written dozens of reviews for Vanke.
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Shop Similar Products
best cordless drills
Ready to buy now? Shop the best:
- Best of the Best: Milwaukee M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver
- Best Bang for the Buck: Black+Decker 20V Max Powerconnect Cordless Drill/Driver
- Trusted Brand: DeWalt 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
- Comprehensive Kit: Avid Power 20V MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill
- Best for its Lightweight Design: SKIL Power Core Brushless 20V 1/2" Drill Driver Kit
- Easy to Use: Bosch PS31-2A 12V Max 3/8 Inch Drill/Driver Kit
- Best Basic Drill: Craftsman V20 Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
- Most Powerful: FLEX 24V Brushless Cordless 1/2-Inch 2-Speed Hammer Drill
- Best for Tight Spaces: Makita XPH10Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 1/2" Hammer Driver-Drill
- Powerful Kit: DeWalt 20V MAX XR Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
A cordless drill is often the first power tool someone buys, and for good reason. It’s perfectly suited to household maintenance and can help craftspeople complete amazing projects. But cordless drills come in many forms, power levels and even motor types, so it’s important to do your homework to ensure you get the right one for your needs.
To help you narrow down your options, we researched dozens of drills, looking at features such as power, speed settings and ergonomics. To determine the best cordless drills, the Vanke Testing Lab put our top contenders through a rigorous evaluation. We assessed their drilling and driving capabilities, along with factors like durability and the usefulness of any extra features.
In the end, we found the best cordless drill to be the Milwaukee M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver. A top-performing tool with a compact build and plenty of power.
Editors' picks
Milwaukee M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver
Editors' Favorite
Voltage: 18 | Battery Type: Not available | Chuck Size: 1/2" | Speed Settings: 2 | Weight: 2.3 lb
Milwaukee Tool has been in business for 100 years, and they’re continued commitment to quality shines with the Milwaukee M18.
This drill dominated our speed tests, effortlessly powering through various materials. It blasted through a two-by-four with a 1-inch hole saw in just 13 seconds and a paddle bit in a mere three seconds. It consistently drilled through 16-gauge sheet metal with different bits in an average of only six seconds each. The driving performance was equally impressive, sinking 3-inch wood screws in five to six seconds.
This Milwaukee drill is crafted with high-quality materials, it’s comfortable to hold and has a useful onboard LED light. However, a battery is not included.
BLACK+DECKER 20-Volt Max POWERCONNECT Cordless Drill/Driver
Great Value
Voltage: 20V | Battery Type: Lithium Ion | Chuck Size: 10" | Speed Settings: Variable | Weight: 3.12 lb
The Black+Decker 20-Volt Max Powerconnect is one of the best budget-friendly drills for those who need a reliable, yet powerful tool to help them complete their DIY projects.
It features an ergonomic design with a soft-grip handle, making it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. It’s excellent for drilling into thick materials, such as wood, metal and plastic, thanks to the 750 RPM motor with 300 lb-in of torque. The 24-position clutch prevents screw stripping, and the battery can retain its charge for up to 18 months.
The drill/driver itself is sufficient to complete most jobs, but the comprehensive kit is the real draw here. The set includes everything you need to get started, including a brad‑point drill bit, 1-inch and 2-inch driver bits, nut drivers and a magnetic bit holder. Plus, you’ll get a case for keeping everything organized.
Avid Power 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill
Comprehensive Kit
Voltage: 20 | Battery Type: Lithium-ion | Chuck Size: 1/2" | Speed Settings: 16 | Weight: 3.64 lb
The affordable Avid Power 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill is an excellent option for DIY projects because of its compact build and user-friendly operation. It comes with a lithium-ion battery pack and features a display that lets you monitor the battery life in real time.
It boasts a max torque of 280 inch-pounds and a 0-550 RPM variable‑speed motor, which makes it effective on various materials, including ceramic, wood, metal, drywall and plastics. The 15+1 clutch settings allow for precise control while screwing and crilling and help prevent screw stripping. Also, the keyless chuck enables you to change bits quickly.
This drill is designed for maximum comfort. It has a rubber grip and a built-in LED light for working in low-light environments. It’s not as powerful as other drills, but it’s a great option for home DIY projects. Plus, the kit comes with 22 bits, an extension bar and a flexible magnetic shaft.
Bosch 12-Volt Max Drill/Driver Kit
Best Drill Kit for Apartment Dwellers
Voltage: 12 | Battery Type: Lithium-ion | Chuck Size: 3/8" | Speed Settings: 20 | Weight: 1.8 lb
This itty-bitty Bosch 12-Volt Max Drill/Driver Kit is exactly what every small-apartment dweller needs for multiple reasons. Its compact size is perfect for getting into those minuscule spaces, plus even its storage bag, battery and charger are all only as large as they have to be.
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Its small chuck and low power isn’t enough for a workshop, but it’s more than enough for building premade furniture or doing little maintenance tasks around your home that your complex’s maintenance staff don’t handle. It offers 20 clutch settings in case you do need to perform the occasional difficult task.
It doesn’t skimp on the extra features either, despite a low cost. It has an LED work light that helps with dark places and a battery fuel gauge so you’re not surprised when your battery dies midtask.
DeWalt 20-Volt Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
Customer Favorite
Voltage: 20 | Battery Type: Lithium-ion | Chuck Size: 1/2" | Speed Settings: 16 | Weight: 3.64 lb
Our hands-down favorite, the DeWalt 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit is well-positioned to handle a huge range of tasks thanks to its versatility. The included 20-volt battery delivers an impressive 300 watts of power, ensuring it can handle practically whatever you throw at it.
The DeWalt’s 16 variable speed options mean you always have precise control while drilling — that way you can prevent damage to your drill and the materials you’re working with, and reduce the risk of injury. The large, half-inch chuck lets you use a wide variety of drill bits, making the drill even more adaptable for various drilling tasks.
The rest of the kit includes a storage bag, a charger and two small batteries instead of just one. This makes the kit excellent for starting and maintaining a DeWalt tool collection.
Ryobi One+ 18-Volt Cordless Drill/Driver (Tool Only)
Best Budget Brand
Voltage: 18 | Battery Type: NA | Chuck Size: 1/2" | Speed Settings: 22 | Weight: 1.5 lb
The Ryobi One+ 18=Volt Cordless Drill/Driver delivers impressive drilling performance for its price. During testing, it tackled various drilling materials with ease. For instance, a 1-inch hole saw drilled through a two-by-four in 30 seconds, a half-inch bit made it through 16-gauge sheet metal in 13 seconds, a quarter-inch bit powered through metal in five seconds and a 1-inch paddle bit went through a two-by-four in just five seconds. Though we sometimes needed to apply more pressure to keep it steady, its driving performance was strong overall.
This Ryobi drill is part of the Ryobi ONE+ system, meaning the battery you use with this tool can be used with practically any other Ryobi power tool. This is a great money-saving advantage if you already own Ryobi tools or a charger, or plan to expand your Ryobi collection in the future.
While the LED work light could be brighter for improved visibility, this Ryobi drill impressed us with its exceptional durability in drop tests, showing minimal wear. We think, for the price, you won’t be disappointed.
Makita 18-Volt LXT Driver/Drill Kit
Best Battery Efficiency
Voltage: 18 | Battery Type: Lithium-ion | Chuck Size: 1/2" | Speed Settings: 21 | Weight: 3.6 lb
The real joy of the Makita 18-Volt LXT Drive/Drill Kit is its excellent battery life. The 3-ah battery it comes with lasted about an hour and 10 minutes and was the only battery among the drills we tested to last over an hour. It’s also durable with a strong LED work light.
This drill impressed with its lightning-fast drilling speeds. It punched through a two-by-four in a mere five seconds, nearly completing the hole in one go (though we did need to finish from the other side). The paddle bit test was similarly quick, averaging three to four seconds with some occasional catching. Sheet metal drilling was also efficient, taking an average of seven seconds across two different bit sizes.
The drill's power extended to driving tasks as well. It effortlessly handled getting a 3-inch wood screw into a sturdy four-by-four beam. So, if you’re looking for power — you found your match!
What to consider when buying a cordless drill
Brushed vs. brushless motor
Brushed motors use coils that rotate around magnets. Due to friction, the motor’s carbon brushes gradually wear down over time and either the brushes or the motor itself will need to be replaced. Because brushed motors lack durability, few drills use them despite their lower cost. That said, drills with brushed motors are a fine choice for those who need a drill for occasional projects and minor repairs.
Brushless motors use a magnet that rotates around coils. This more popular, lightweight motor, which is ideal for professionals or anyone with heavy-duty tasks, provides greater power, efficiency and longevity, but it costs more.
Battery power
Battery power is measured in volts. The more volts, the more powerful the drill, and the more torque it can muster. The majority of cordless drills are 12-volt, 18-volt or 20-volt tools. The 12-volt models are sufficient for most household tasks, but if it’s within your budget, you can’t go wrong with the extra power offered by an 18-volt or 20-volt option. Many quality cordless drills come with two batteries, so one can charge while the other is in use.
Battery type
While you can still find drills powered by nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries, they’re not as common as lithium-ion (Li-ion) models. In general, Li-ion batteries provide longer run time and more power. Plus, they don’t contain cadmium, an environmentally harmful metal. Li-ion batteries are also lighter than NiCd batteries.
Speed
Typically, cordless drills have low-speed and high-speed settings. A lower speed provides more torque (twisting power) for driving screws, while a higher speed is used for drilling holes. Some models also have a variable speed lever so you can set a more specific speed.
Variable clutch
A cordless drill’s clutch stops the rotation of the drill bit once a set resistance is reached. This prevents stripping and over-tightening a screw. Variable clutch settings let you tailor the resistance to your needs. Usually, low resistance is for small screws and high resistance is for large screws.
Chuck size
The chuck is the part of the drill that holds the bit. Some less-expensive models only have a 3/8-inch chuck, but most cordless drills have a 1/2-inch chuck, which is far more versatile.
Extras
Some drills come with some small extra features to make your task easier. The most common of these is a built-in LED light that comes in handy when you’re drilling in a dark or recessed location. Another is a belt hook, which can be handy when you’re working on a ladder or walking around a project site.
Tips for using your cordless drill
- Drilling a hole to a specific depth? Wrap a bit of colorful tape around your drill bit at the desired depth. When the tape hits the hole, you’re there.
- Not sure what size drill bit you need? It’s better to err on the side of too small than too large. After all, you can always make the hole bigger, but it’s hard to make it smaller once you’ve over-drilled.
- Always start drilling at a low speed. Increase speed as needed.
- Typically, your drill will have a lever to set the direction forward (driving screws in) or reverse (unscrewing screws). If the lever is set in between the two directions, it’s locked. So, if you can’t figure out why your drill won’t spin, check the direction lever.
- Remember that the larger the drill bit, the more powerful the torque.
- Hold your drill so the bit is at a right angle to the work surface. This will prevent the bit from skittering or breaking as you work.
- Wear eye protection when you use any power tool. Dust from paint, wood, drywall or masonry can do serious damage to your eyes.
- If you’re drilling a deep hole, periodically pull the bit out, and dust or blow away the accumulated sawdust and grit.
- Unless you’re drilling into a wall or similarly fixed object, clamp the item before starting to drill.
- A good, basic set of drilling and driving bits should accomplish just about anything the average homeowner or casual DIYer needs to do. Common types of drill bits include:
- General purpose
- Phillips head for use with that type of screw
- Metal or high-speed steel (HSS) for drilling into metal
- Auger for deep holes
- Spur point for wood
- Tile or glass bits for working with those materials
- Spade bit for large holes in wood
- Hole saw for even larger holes in wood
- Masonry bit for concrete, brick or stone
- Countersink: These cut a tiny bit of extra space for the screw’s head
- Sanding bits: These are wrapped with sandpaper and are extremely useful for smoothing surfaces before painting, priming, and such
How we tested
To determine the best cordless drills for a variety of needs, we conducted a rigorous testing process on seven drills from six leading brands, encompassing a range of power levels. Each drill underwent identical tests designed to assess real-world performance. Here's a breakdown of our testing methodology:
Drilling performance: We evaluated drilling capabilities through tests using various bit types and materials. This included drilling small holes in wood with paddle bits and hole saws, simulating common DIY tasks.
Driving performance: The drills were put to the test by driving 3-inch wood screws and 5-inch lag screws, assessing their power and ability to handle demanding jobs.
Durability: We tested the toughness of each drill by subjecting them to controlled drop tests, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of everyday use.
Battery efficiency: Battery life is crucial for cordless tools. We measured the runtime of each drill to determine how long they can last on a single charge.
By analyzing the combined results from these tests, we were able to identify the top performers that offer exceptional drilling and driving capabilities, durability and battery efficiency.
FAQ
Q. Are cordless drills less powerful than corded drills?
A. Generally, yes. A corded drill delivers more torque than one running on batteries. However, this is typically only something to keep in mind if you plan to do heavy-duty jobs.
Q. Can I use a cordless drill to mix paint?
A. Yes. You can purchase bits that are specifically designed to mix paint. Simply attach the bit to your drill as you would any other, dip it into your bucket and mix as needed. Be sure to wear eye protection.
Q. Can I use a battery with a different voltage than the one my drill came with?
A. This practice should generally be avoided. Using a battery with a lower voltage than your drill will adversely affect the tool’s performance. In that same vein, using a more powerful battery than appropriate can overload your drill and ruin it.
Our expertise
Kevin Luna has a love for all things tech, sports, fitness and gadgets. As a longtime writer for Vanke, he enjoys writing engaging, high-quality guides to help shoppers make smart buying decisions.
Jordan Woika researched and tested a wide range of drills from top brands for this article. Specializing in tools and appliances for the home, he has written dozens of reviews for Vanke.
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