Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just starting to tackle home improvement tasks, a reliable power drill is an indispensable tool in your arsenal.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best power drills on the market, helping you make an informed choice for your drilling and driving needs.
Get ready to unleash the full potential of your DIY projects with the best power drills at your fingertips.
Comparison Chart
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill – Review
The DEWALT 20V MAX* Cordless Drill/ Driver Kit, Compact, 1/2-Inch (DCD708C2) is compactly designed at only 6.3 inches front to back. This detail is remarkable as it allows for fitting in tight spaces and tackling jobs in areas otherwise difficult to reach with larger drills.
The power drill comes with a variable speed trigger, a desirable feature that offers control and precision especially on delicate work surfaces. This feature stands out particularly for DIY hobbyists and professionals who work on projects demanding fine detailing.
Another impressive feature is the drill’s brushless motor. A brushless motor usually means better efficiency, more power, and longevity — all of which are offered by this DEWALT 20V drill.
The kit is also lightweight, weighing just about 2.4 lbs. Not only does this promote better handling and reduces user fatigue, but it also enhances maneuverability during use.
The drill offers 340 UWO of power making it ideal for various jobs. Moreover, it runs on a bulb voltage of 20 volts, which gives it enough power to get most drilling and driving tasks done.
Wrap all these features together and you have a tool that delivers performance, comfort, and control, making it a worthwhile investment.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
1. Compact yet powerful – a perfect combination for handling tough drilling projects.
2. Convenient and user-friendly with great features that come handy during use.
3. Dewalt’s 20V Max Cordless Drill Kit’s lightweight nature makes it easy to handle.
4. Swift shipping and commendable price point.
5. Works great even as a refurbished product.
6. Perfect tool for DIY home projects.
7. The drill kit comes with two batteries which adds to the convenience.
Cons:
1. The drill set does not include a wall drill set. However, acquiring one separately can extend its functionality.
Makita XFD14T 18V Drill Kit – Review
Moving on to the Makita XFD14T 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Driver-Drill Kit, it’s worth noting its superlative features.
Notably, this drill has a built-in brushless motor that ensures an impressive force of 1,250 in.lbs of max torque.
Aren’t you tired of those bulky drills? Then, the compact ergonomic design, which is 14% shorter than the previous model, will be a welcome relief. It comes with a 2-speed transmission (0-550 & 0-2,100 RPM) making it suited for various drilling and fastening applications.
The all-metal 1/2 self-ratcheting chuck improves the drill’s bit gripping strength while enhancing durability.
Another impressive feature is its weight – it’s only 5.7 lbs with the battery, significantly reducing operator fatigue. This model is an integral part of Makita’s 18V LXT System, taking advantage of fast-charge times of Makita 18V Lithium-Ion Batteries for reduced downtime.
As a premium Driver-Drill kit, one of its unique features is the rubberized soft grip that ensures your comfort during operation. Not only that, the Brushless Motor adapts to the torque and RPM required for any job due to its electronic control.
It’s protected with Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) to shield against dust and water on job sites. Overall, the Makita XFD14T 18V LXT offers great value and reliability.
Don’t forget, it’s always best to use genuine Makita batteries and chargers with this drill.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
1. High torque capability – perfect for heavyweight tasks.
2. Long battery life, reducing the frequency of charge.
3. Smooth acceleration for a controlled drilling experience.
4. High-quality, durable metal chuck.
5. Versatility – works well with large bore augers to smaller tasks.
6. Comfortable for smaller hands.
7. The strength of the drill is commendable, capable of drilling into different materials.
Cons:
1. The weight of the drill is slightly on the heavier side, which may not be preferable to some.
BOSCH PS31-2A Drill – Review
Stepping into the spotlight now is the BOSCH PS31-2A 12V Max 3/8 In. Drill/Driver Kit. This featherlight powerhouse weighs in at just 1.8 Lbs, so it won’t tire you out even after hours of heavy use. This makes it a favorite among professionals such as electricians, plumbers, and contractors for overhead drilling or driven tasks.
Don’t be fooled by its lightweight design though – it packs an impressive punch with professional-grade power under the hood.
With 265 In.-Lbs. of max torque and 1300 RPM, you’ll have no trouble tackling tasks in materials varying from drywall to metal.
The BOSCH PS31-2A also boasts an impressive degree of versatility and precision, thanks to two speed settings and over 20 different clutch settings. This means you can fine-tune your torque adjustments for precise screw-driving and drilling.
Plus, it comes with two 12V Lithium-Ion batteries to ensure you never run out of power midway through a job.
Have you ever struggled to do detail work in dimly lit areas? This tool solves that problem too with its integrated LED lights that illuminate your workspace, so you can keep working effectively, no matter what the light conditions are.
Finally, an added perk is the 7 In. head-length and single-sleeve, 3/8 In. three-jaw chuck that securely holds bits, ensuring your tool will be as trustworthy as it is functional.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
1. Consistently high-rated product across multiple users.
2. Compact and lightweight, making it easy to hold and control.
3. Has a 2-in-1 function, oscillating between a drill and driver skillfully.
4. Efficient with small to mid-size home projects.
5. Designed with 2 powerful batteries that, according to users, lasts quite well.
6. Topped off with an excellent, helpful customer service from Bosch.
Cons:
1. While being 12V, the kit may not offer as much power as the 18V versions.
2. Some may find that the battery ran out faster than anticipated.
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Drill (LDX120C) – Review
In our search for top-performing cordless drills, the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Driver (LDX120C) emerged as a reliable choice. Backed with Lithium Ion technology, this tool encompasses a no-memory feature and longer lifespan.
As a lighter, more compact model, it’s designed for less strain during extended use, enhancing user comfort significantly.
Additionally, its 20V MAX power ensures effective and seamless completion of tasks in various materials.
One standout feature is the 11 position clutch that provides precise control, making it apt for drilling into multiple materials like wood, metal, and plastic, and suitable for all screwdriving tasks. This precision reduces the probability of damaging materials while providing the versatility to handle a broad range of jobs.
Adding to its versatility, it also features variable speed capacity which is especially useful for countersinking purposes without inflicting material damage.
This drill also has thoughtfully included an integrated bit holder under the drill handle that comes with a double-ended bit.
With a bulb voltage of 20 volts and 1500 watts power, it’s an impressive power tool that can be a brilliant addition to any toolkit.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
1. This drill is great for small household projects, making it a convenient tool for home repairs.
2. The LED work light provides better visibility while working.
3. It comes at a fair price, giving you good value for money.
4. It is lightweight which makes it easy to handle.
5. It’s a great tool for beginners as it is intuitive to use.
Cons:
1. Could benefit from having a bit more power for larger jobs – a slight upgrade wouldn’t hurt.
2. It might not be best suited for heavy-duty tasks.
Buyer’s Guide
After going through several top-notch power drills, it’s time to provide a brief, but comprehensive guide to help you select the best power drill that meets your needs.
Purpose of Use
Firstly, consider what you’ll be using your drill for. Will you be doing light household tasks or heavier construction projects?
If you plan on using your tool frequently for heavy-duty tasks, then paying a bit more for a high-quality drill like the DEWALT or Makita models we’ve reviewed might be worth it, as they often have outstanding performances and longer lifespans.
Drill Types
Secondly, consider the type of drill you want. There’s a range of drill types available, including drill drivers, hammer drills, and impact drivers.
A drill driver like the ones from DEWALT and Makita is an excellent all-rounder, suitable for drilling holes and driving screws.
Hammer drills, on the other hand, offer more power and are great for drilling into tough materials like concrete or brick.
Power and Speed
Next, let’s talk power and speed. Drill power is measured in voltage, with higher voltage generally indicating a more powerful drill.
The Makita model at 18V and the 20V drill models from both DEWALT and BLACK+DECKER are powerful enough for a variety of home tasks, and even some professional uses.
Meanwhile, the speed variable is significant when it comes to efficiency. Most cordless drill/drivers have at least two-speed settings.
Lower speed settings allow for better torque for driving screws, while a higher-speed setting is useful for drilling holes. Both are critical in executing tasks seamlessly.
Battery Life and Accessories
Now, let’s think about battery life. All the drills we’ve reviewed are cordless models, making them highly portable. But, cordless drills are only as good as their battery.
Look for models with high ampere-hour (Ah) ratings, like the Makita model, which packs a 5.0 Ah battery. However, even the best battery won’t last forever, so having a quick charger or a spare battery can make a big difference.
Torque and Ergonomics
The torque of a drill is also important to consider, defined as the drill’s rotational power. More torque gives the drill more twisting force, which is particularly useful when you’re driving screws into harder materials.
The weight and size of your drill might be important too, if for instance, you will be using it for extended periods or in awkward positions. The compact and lightweight design of the BOSCH model for instance gives it an edge in such situations.
Chuck Size and Warranty
Also give thought to the bit size the chuck can accommodate. The drills reviewed here accept either 3/8 inch or 1/2 inch bits. A 1/2 inch chuck will accommodate larger bits, making it more versatile if you’re working on a range of tasks.
And finally, remember to consider warranty—the longer, the better. Most reputable companies like Makita, BOSCH, DEWALT, and BLACK+DECKER offer robust warranties and have developed reputations for good customer service.
Identifying the best power drill for you comes down to recognizing your needs and the drill’s capacity to meet those needs effectively. So, while we’ve spotlighted some terrific options, be sure to apply these buying tips to guide your decision-making process.
FAQ
Can a power drill be used as a screwdriver?
Absolutely! Most power drills come with a versatile range of bits, including screwdriver bits. This multi-functionality means you can switch in and out different bits to serve various purposes. However, remember to select the right speed setting when using your drill as a screwdriver, as screw-driving requires a slower pace than drilling.
What makes a cordless power drill desirable?
Cordless power drills offer the advantage of mobility. They offer the freedom to move around as much as necessary without being restricted by a power cable. This can make certain tasks, such as those that require climbing ladders or moving around large workspaces, much easier.
Moreover, most of the top cordless drills pack a comparable power punch to their corded counterparts, leaving little room for compromise on performance.
Why are brushless power drills trending?
Brushless power drills have gained much popularity for their durability and efficiency. They essentially possess a motor that adjusts according to the task at hand. This technology results in less friction, thereby reducing heat production, extending the lifespan of the motor and the tool. Some of our top picks, such as the Makita XFD14T, sport this innovative feature.
Is more voltage in a power drill always better?
Not necessarily. While more voltage means more power and speed, it also translates to a higher price tag and more weight. Therefore, you should match the voltage to the kind of jobs you intend to tackle.
The DIYers or home users might find sufficient power in drills rated between 12V to 20V, like the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX and BOSCH PS31-2A 12V Max.
On the other hand, for heavy-duty tasks, models with a higher voltage such as the Makita XFD14T would be a better fit.
Do all power drills come with LED lights?
While not a universal feature, the majority of the modern power drills often have built-in LED lights. They illuminate the workspace and provide visibility in tight or dim spots. Examples include the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX and the Dewalt 20V MAX.
In all, the best power drill for you harks back to your specific needs. It’s essential to balance power, mobility, cost efficiency, and additional features like brushless technology or built-in LEDs.
Conclusion
Selecting the best power drill for your needs involves thoughtful consideration of power, endurance, and usability.
Whether you’re a weekend DIYer who prefers the compact BLACK+DECKER LDX120C or a professional contractor opting for the DEWALT DCD708C2’s durability, the key is understanding your project demands.
As always, our reviews and buyer’s guide are designed to steer you towards a well-informed decision.