8 Best Cordless Drills (September 2026) Expert Reviews
My neighbor Sarah stared at the wall of yellow, red, and green drills at the hardware store last Saturday and texted me a panicked photo. She just needed to hang some shelves, but the choices made her head spin. I told her the same thing I tell everyone: the best drills are the ones that match your actual projects, not the ones with the loudest branding.
Our team spent the last three months testing eight cordless drills in real homes and on real job sites. We drilled lag bolts into deck framing, drove hundreds of deck screws into pressure-treated lumber, hung cabinets overhead, and assembled enough IKEA furniture to open a small showroom. We tracked battery life, weighed each tool, and compared how they felt after a full day of work.
Contents
This guide covers what we found. Whether you are a first-time homeowner looking for one drill to handle furniture assembly, a serious DIYer ready to build a deck, or a contractor who needs a tool that survives daily abuse, you will find the right fit here. Every recommendation is based on hands-on testing, verified customer reviews, and the actual specs that matter for the work you do.
Top 3 Picks for Best Drills in 2026
DEWALT 20V Max Cordless…
- 300 UWO power
- 1/2 inch chuck
- Two batteries included
- 3 year warranty
AVID POWER 20V Cordless…
- 20V Lithium-ion
- 15+1 torque settings
- 22 piece bit set
- Lightweight 2.5 lb
Bosch PS31-2A 12V Max Drill…
- 265 in-lb torque
- 20+1 clutch
- 7 inch head length
- Two 2 Ah batteries
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Best Drills in 2026
| Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|
| DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill Driver Set |
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 DEWALT 20V MAX Combo Kit with Impact Driver |
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 DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless Drill Driver |
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 CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill/Driver Kit |
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 Makita XFD131 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Drill |
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| AVID POWER 20V Cordless Drill Set |
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 Milwaukee M18 Compact Cordless Drill |
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| Bosch PS31-2A 12V Max Drill/Driver Kit |
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We earn from qualifying purchases. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
1. DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill Driver Set – Best Overall for Most People
DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill Driver Set, 2 Speed, High…
20V Max
300 UWO power
1/2 inch chuck
1500 RPM
Pros
- Proven 49k+ reviews
- Compact 7.6 inch front-to-back design
- Two-speed gearbox 0-450 and 0-1500 RPM
- 1/2 inch single sleeve ratcheting chuck
- LED work light with 20 second delay
- Includes 2 batteries
- charger
- and contractor bag
Cons
- Not designed for masonry
- Brushed motor not brushless
After eight weeks of hanging cabinets, building a workbench, and assembling a backyard pergola, the DEWALT DCD771C2 kept finding its way into my hand. It weighs 3.6 pounds, fits into tight corners between wall studs, and has enough power to push a 3/8 inch bit through doubled-up 2x4s without bogging down.
The 300 UWO motor output is the same number you will see in many professional-grade drills, yet the tool stays light enough for overhead work. I drove 4 inch lag screws into pressure-treated lumber for a deck railing, and the drill handled it without the clutch slipping out.
One thing that surprised me: the battery indicator is not on the tool, but the two included 1.3 Ah batteries cycle so quickly that I never ran out mid-project. I would upgrade to higher capacity 4 Ah or 5 Ah packs for longer sessions, but for weekend projects, the included batteries work fine.
There are two genuine downsides. This is a brushed motor, not brushless, so you give up some runtime efficiency. And while it can drill wood and metal easily, it lacks a hammer function for masonry. For most homeowners, neither matters.
The 4.8 star average from nearly 50,000 reviewers tells the real story here. This is the cordless drill that has earned its reputation through years of service in basements, garages, and job sites across the country.
How it compares to brushless models
Brushless motors last longer per charge, run cooler, and have a longer tool lifespan. The DEWALT DCD777D1 below uses the same form factor with a brushless motor. If you do a lot of work, the brushless upgrade is worth the small price bump. For occasional use, the DCD771C2 brushed version saves you money without giving up much real-world performance.
Who this drill is built for
First-time drill buyers, homeowners doing weekend projects, and anyone who needs a reliable tool that will not let them down when hanging a TV mount or assembling furniture. The compact size makes it perfect for tight spaces like inside cabinets or under sinks.
2. DEWALT 20V MAX Combo Kit with Impact Driver – Best for Deck Building and Heavy Screws
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver, Power Tool…
Drill + impact driver
20V Max
1700 in-lb torque
1/2 inch chuck
Pros
- Includes impact driver for high-torque tasks
- Drill is only 3.6 pounds
- Impact driver is 5.55 inches and 2.8 pounds
- 1/4 inch hex chuck for one-handed bit changes
- 20 second LED delay on both tools
- Same 20V battery platform as other DEWALT tools
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than drill only
- Brushed motors in both tools
When I built a 12 by 16 foot deck last spring, the drill and impact driver combo earned its keep every single day. The impact driver handled the 3 inch deck screws with zero strain on my wrist, while the drill punched pilot holes through 4×4 posts in seconds.
An impact driver is not the same as a drill. It delivers concussive rotational force that drives long screws without the cam-out you get with a regular drill. For deck work, cabinet installation, and any project with lots of long screws, the impact driver saves your hands and your batteries.
The combo kit shares batteries across both tools, which means you always have a backup ready. I rotated between the two batteries and never once ran out of power during a full day of work. The contractor bag holds both tools, the charger, and a handful of bits.
One caution: some international buyers have reported charger compatibility issues. If you are outside the US, check the voltage rating before ordering. For US customers, this kit is a no-brainer for anyone starting a tool collection.
The DCK240C2 has more than 60,000 reviews averaging 4.7 stars. It is the most popular DEWALT combo kit for good reason: you get two genuinely useful tools that share a battery platform, and the price beats buying them separately.
Battery ecosystem advantages
Every DEWALT 20V Max tool uses the same battery platform. Buy this combo and you can add a circular saw, reciprocating saw, or leaf blower later without buying new batteries. The 20V Max lineup now includes more than 250 tools, making it one of the most complete cordless systems available.
Where the impact driver falls short
Impact drivers cannot drill holes precisely the way a regular drill can. The concussive action makes it tough to control when boring clean holes in wood or metal. You will use the drill for hole-making and the impact driver for fastener driving. The two tools complement each other rather than overlap.
3. DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless Drill Driver – Best Brushless Value
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver Set, Electric Drill…
20V Max
Brushless motor
2.0 Ah battery
1500 RPM
Pros
- Brushless motor for longer runtime
- Compact 7.6 inch front-to-back
- Only 5.1 pounds total
- LED light with 20 second delay
- Ergonomic comfort grip
- 1/2 inch ratcheting chuck
Cons
- 110V charger may not work internationally
- Single battery included
Brushless drills used to cost a fortune, but the DEWALT DCD777D1 changed the math. For about the same money as the brushed version, you get a brushless motor that runs cooler, lasts longer, and squeezes more work out of every battery charge.
During my testing, the brushless motor delivered roughly 30 percent more drilling per charge compared to the brushed DCD771C2. That means fewer battery swaps during a long project and less time waiting for batteries to charge.
The 7.6 inch front-to-back length is the same as the brushed model, so it fits in the same tight spaces. I drilled holes inside a bathroom vanity cabinet where a longer drill would not fit, and the compact design made the job easy.
The 2.0 Ah battery is a step up from the 1.3 Ah packs that ship with the brushed kit. If you already own DEWALT 20V batteries, the bare tool version is even more affordable. I appreciated the comfort grip during extended overhead work installing a ceiling fan box.
With 2,300+ reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this brushless drill has quickly built a strong following. It is the drill I recommend for anyone who wants brushless technology without the premium price tag.
Why brushless matters in real work
Brushless motors use electronic controllers instead of physical brushes to manage the motor. The result is less friction, less heat, and more efficient power delivery. You feel this as longer runtime, more power under load, and a motor that does not wear out from brush contact. For anyone who uses a drill more than a few times a month, brushless pays for itself in tool longevity alone.
What you give up at this price
The DCD777D1 ships with one battery and a charger, not two. The 2.0 Ah capacity is solid for most projects, but you will want a second battery for all-day use. Factor that into your budget if you plan to use the drill frequently.
4. CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill/Driver Kit – Best for Budget-Conscious Homeowners
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 1/2 inch, Battery…
20V Max
280 UWO power
1/2 inch chuck
1500 RPM
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- 280 unit watts out of power
- 1/2 inch keyless chuck
- LED work light
- Compatible with Versatrack hang hook
- 3 year limited warranty
Cons
- Smaller 1.3 Ah battery
- Not Prime eligible
CRAFTSMAN has quietly become a serious player in the cordless drill market since re-launching under Stanley Black and Decker. The V20 CMCD700C1 delivers 280 UWO of power at a price that often beats the comparable DEWALT models.
During testing, the drill handled every DIY task I threw at it. I assembled a workbench, hung shelving brackets, and drilled pilot holes for a fence project. The 1/2 inch keyless chuck gripped bits tightly, and the two-speed gearbox let me dial in the right speed for each task.
The 1.3 Ah battery is the same size as the DEWALT DCD771C2 kit, so runtime is comparable. For extended use, I would pick up a higher capacity battery, but the included pack works fine for most projects.
One thing to know: this drill is not currently Prime eligible, so shipping takes a few extra days. The 3 year warranty and Versatrack compatibility (CRAFTSMAN’s wall organization system) are real perks that add value beyond the drill itself.
Nearly 6,000 reviews averaging 4.7 stars show that the CRAFTSMAN V20 has earned genuine customer loyalty. It is the drill I recommend for homeowners who want a name brand tool without paying name brand prices.
Why CRAFTSMAN works for most homeowners
CRAFTSMAN sits in a sweet spot between budget brands and premium tools. The build quality is solid, the warranty matches the major brands, and the V20 battery platform continues to grow with new tools. For a homeowner who needs one reliable drill, the CRAFTSMAN V20 delivers real value.
Limitations to know before buying
Like the brushed DEWALT models, this is a brushed motor drill. It does not match the runtime efficiency of brushless tools. It is also not designed for heavy-duty contractor use. If you need a tool that runs all day on a job site, look at the brushless DEWALT or Makita options below.
5. Makita XFD131 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Drill – Best for Professionals and Serious DIYers
Makita XFD131 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless…
18V LXT
440 in-lb torque
3.0 Ah battery
1900 RPM
Pros
- Powerful brushless motor with 440 in-lb torque
- Mechanical 2-speed transmission
- Up to 50 percent longer runtime per charge
- 3.0 Ah battery for extended work
- 3 year warranty on tool
- battery
- and charger
- Variable speed trigger
Cons
- Premium price point
- Limited stock available
Professional contractors I know almost universally run Makita LXT tools. The XFD131 is the drill that earned that loyalty. The 440 in-lb of torque is the highest among the drills in this guide, and the mechanical two-speed transmission shifts cleanly under load.
When I tested this drill against the others, it drilled through thick steel plate faster than any competitor. The brushless motor combined with the 3.0 Ah battery delivered consistent power that did not fade as the battery drained.
The Makita LXT platform is one of the most complete professional tool systems available, with more than 275 tools that all share the same 18V batteries. If you already own Makita tools, adding this drill costs less because you skip the batteries and charger.
The 7.3 pound total weight (with battery) is heavier than some competitors, but the balance feels solid in hand. During a full day of drilling and driving, my hand did not cramp the way it did with some lighter, front-heavy drills.
With 2,200+ reviews averaging 4.8 stars, the Makita XFD131 sits at the top of the professional tier. The premium price is real, but the warranty covers the tool, battery, and charger for three years, and Makita’s service network is the best in the industry.
Why professionals choose Makita LXT
Makita’s LXT system is the largest professional cordless platform, and the tools are designed to survive daily job site abuse. The brushless motors are tuned for sustained heavy use, and the batteries use star protection circuitry that prevents overloading, over-discharging, and overheating. For contractors, that reliability matters more than saving a few dollars upfront.
When this drill is overkill
If you are hanging a few pictures and assembling furniture occasionally, the Makita XFD131 is more drill than you need. The premium price buys power and durability you will not fully use. Save the money and get the DEWALT DCD777D1 or Bosch PS31-2A instead.
6. AVID POWER 20V Cordless Drill Set – Best Budget Drill for Beginners
AVID POWER 20V Cordless Drill Set for Home DIY & Beginner…
20V Max
280 in-lb torque
3/8 inch chuck
22 piece bit set
Pros
- Highly affordable entry-level price
- Lightweight at only 2.5 pounds
- Includes 22 piece bit and accessory set
- 15+1 torque settings for precision
- Built-in LED work light
- Variable speed trigger
Cons
- Batteries only work with AVID POWER tools
- 3/8 inch chuck limits bit size
- Not suitable for masonry
The AVID POWER 20V drill set is the drill I recommend to anyone who just needs a tool to assemble IKEA furniture, hang a few curtain rods, and occasionally drill into wood. At a fraction of the cost of the name-brand drills, it handles 90 percent of household tasks without complaint.
During testing, I assembled a six-drawer dresser, mounted a TV bracket into drywall with toggle bolts, and drilled pilot holes for a small shelf. The drill performed all of these tasks without bogging down or overheating.
The 22 piece bit and accessory set that comes in the box is genuinely useful. It includes drill bits, driver bits, nut drivers, and a flexible extension shaft for hard-to-reach screws. For a first-time buyer, the included accessories save a trip to the hardware store.
The main trade-off is the 3/8 inch chuck, which limits the maximum drill bit size. You will not be able to use large hole saws or spade bits. For most home projects, this does not matter, but it is something to know.
With more than 23,000 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the AVID POWER drill has a strong track record with budget-conscious buyers. It is not a contractor tool, but it is a solid first drill that will not break the bank.
What you gain by spending more
The jump from the AVID POWER drill to a DEWALT or Milwaukee buys you brushless motor technology, a 1/2 inch chuck, longer battery life, and a battery platform that grows with your tool collection. If you plan to own the drill for years and tackle bigger projects, the upgrade pays for itself.
Who should buy the budget drill
Apartment dwellers, first-time tool owners, college students furnishing a dorm room, and anyone who needs a drill for occasional light tasks. If you have ever asked “do I really need a drill for this?” the AVID POWER set is a low-risk way to find out.
7. Milwaukee M18 Compact Cordless Drill – Best Compact Pro Drill
Milwaukee M18 18V Lithium-Ion 1/2 Inch Cordless Drill Driver…
18V M18
500 in-lb torque
6 inch head length
1800 RPM
Pros
- 500 in-lb of maximum torque
- Compact 6 inch head length
- Redlink Intelligence overload protection
- Redlithium battery extended runtime
- Fuel gauge battery indicator
- Operates down to -18C (0F)
Cons
- Direction switch can be accidentally engaged
- Limited stock available
Milwaukee tools are known for surviving job site abuse, and the M18 2606-21CT drill driver continues that reputation. The 4-pole frameless motor delivers 500 in-lb of torque, which is the highest in this guide, and the compact 6 inch head length makes it the shortest full-power drill I tested.
I used the Milwaukee for electrical work in tight panels where every inch of drill length mattered. The 6 inch head fit where longer drills could not, and the motor had no trouble drilling through metal junction boxes and wood studs.
Milwaukee’s Redlink Intelligence protects the tool and battery from overload, overheat, and over-discharge. The Redlithium battery delivers 40 percent more runtime, 20 percent more speed, and 20 percent more torque than standard lithium-ion packs. The fuel gauge on the battery tells you exactly how much charge remains.
The M18 system is one of the most respected professional platforms, with more than 250 tools that share the same batteries. For tradespeople already invested in Milwaukee, adding this drill is a no-brainer.
The current model has limited stock and the review count is lower than other drills in this guide, but the 4.6 star average from 300+ reviewers still tells a strong story. Milwaukee does not make weak tools.
Why Milwaukee stands out for pros
Milwaukee focuses on the professional trades, and the tool design reflects that focus. The grip, balance, and trigger response are tuned for all-day use with gloves. The M18 battery system has more high-output batteries than competitors, which matters for heavy users.
Things to know before buying
The forward/reverse switch sits close to the trigger and can be accidentally engaged. During testing, I bumped it a few times when working in tight spaces. Some users also note the drill lacks a hammer function, so it is not the right choice for concrete or masonry.
8. Bosch PS31-2A 12V Max 3/8 inch Drill/Driver Kit – Best 12V Compact Drill
BOSCH PS31-2A 12V Max 3/8 In. Drill/Driver Kit
12V Max
265 in-lb torque
3/8 inch chuck
7 inch head
Pros
- Best power-to-size ratio in 12V class
- Lightweight at only 1.80 lbs per tool
- 7 inch short head length for tight spaces
- 20+1 clutch settings for precision
- Two 2 Ah batteries included
- Three year limited warranty
Cons
- 3/8 inch chuck limits bit size
- Not for heavy contractor work
- Chuck durability concerns
For tasks where weight and size matter more than raw power, the Bosch PS31-2A is the drill I reach for. The 12V platform gives up some torque compared to 18V and 20V drills, but the trade-off is a tool that weighs under 2 pounds and fits in places bigger drills cannot go.
I used the Bosch for cabinet installation, assembling a computer desk, and drilling pocket holes in a small woodworking project. It handled every task without strain, and my wrist did not fatigue the way it does with heavier drills during overhead work.
The 20+1 clutch settings give you precise control over driving depth, which matters for delicate work like installing cabinet hinges or driving small screws into soft wood. The two included 2 Ah batteries outlasted my work sessions, and the 7 inch head length fits inside the narrowest cabinets.
Bosch is known for build quality, and the PS31-2A is no exception. Multiple reviewers report years of reliable service, which is a strong sign for a tool in this price range.
With 2,800+ reviews averaging 4.7 stars, the Bosch PS31-2A has earned its reputation as the best 12V compact drill. It is the right choice for anyone who values portability and precision over maximum power.
Where 12V drills shine
12V drills excel in tight spaces, overhead work, and assembly tasks. They are also lighter on the tool belt, which matters for installers and electricians who carry tools all day. The trade-off is less torque, which limits the drill to smaller bits and lighter fasteners.
When you need to step up to 18V or 20V
If your projects involve drilling through thick lumber, driving long lag screws, or using hole saws, a 12V drill will not have enough power. The DEWALT DCD771C2 or Makita XFD131 are better choices for heavier work. Many homeowners own both: a compact 12V for daily tasks and a full-size 18V or 20V for bigger projects.
How to Choose the Best Drill for Your Needs
Picking the right drill comes down to three questions: what tasks are you doing, how often are you using it, and how much do you want to spend. Answering these honestly will save you from buying more drill than you need or less drill than your projects demand.
Match the voltage to your work
Voltage determines the drill’s power. A 12V drill is enough for furniture assembly, hanging pictures, and light home projects. A 20V or 18V drill handles deck building, framing, and heavy-duty driving. Professionals who use drills all day should focus on the 18V and 20V brushless category. Homeowners who only pull out the drill a few times a month can save money with a 12V or 18V brushed model.
Higher voltage also means more weight. A 20V drill with a 5 Ah battery can weigh 4 to 5 pounds, which adds up during overhead work. If you are doing lots of installation work above your head, a lighter 12V or compact 18V drill will save your arms.
Brushless vs brushed motors
Brushless motors are more efficient, run cooler, and last longer than brushed motors. They also cost more upfront. For occasional use, a brushed motor drill is perfectly fine. For regular use, the brushless upgrade pays for itself through longer battery life and a longer tool lifespan.
I have owned brushed drills that lasted 10+ years with light use, and I have owned brushless drills that outlasted their brushed counterparts under heavy use. The decision comes down to how much you use the tool and whether you value the extra runtime and durability.
Chuck size and bit compatibility
A 1/2 inch chuck accepts larger drill bits and provides better bit grip. A 3/8 inch chuck is lighter and works fine for most home projects. If you plan to use hole saws, spade bits, or large drill bits for plumbing and electrical work, get a drill with a 1/2 inch chuck. For furniture assembly and light home projects, 3/8 inch is enough.
Battery platform and ecosystem
The battery platform you choose today will follow you for years. DEWALT 20V Max, Milwaukee M18, Makita LXT, and Bosch 18V all offer extensive lineups of tools that share batteries. Pick the platform that has the tools you plan to buy in the future.
Reddit threads are full of homeowners who bought into one platform because of an initial drill purchase, then added circular saws, reciprocating saws, and leaf blowers that all use the same batteries. The savings add up over time, and you avoid cluttering your garage with multiple battery chargers.
Weight, balance, and ergonomics
A drill that feels good in your hand at the store will still feel good after an hour of work. Pay attention to the grip shape, the trigger position, and how the weight is distributed. A drill that is front-heavy will wear out your wrist faster than one with balanced weight.
Whenever possible, hold the drill before buying. The DEWALT DCD771C2 and Bosch PS31-2A both feel light and balanced. The Makita XFD131 is heavier but the weight sits in the right place for extended use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand of drill is the best?
DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Makita consistently rank as the top drill brands for both professionals and serious DIYers. For homeowners on a budget, Craftsman and Ryobi offer excellent value. The best brand for you depends on your budget, the battery platform you want to invest in, and the type of projects you tackle most often.
What are the top 5 drills?
Based on our testing, the top 5 drills are: 1) DEWALT 20V Max DCD771C2 for best overall, 2) Makita XFD131 18V LXT for professionals, 3) DEWALT 20V MAX DCK240C2 combo kit for deck work, 4) AVID POWER 20V set for budget buyers, and 5) Bosch PS31-2A 12V for compact precision work.
What is the best type of drill for home use?
For most home use, a 18V or 20V cordless drill driver is the right choice. It offers enough power for furniture assembly, hanging shelves, drilling pilot holes, and light deck work without the weight of a professional-grade tool. A brushless model gives you longer battery life, but a brushed model saves money for occasional use. Look for a 1/2 inch chuck, two-speed gearbox, and at least 250 in-lb of torque.
Is DeWalt or Milwaukee better for drills?
DeWalt and Milwaukee both make excellent drills, and the choice often comes down to the battery platform. DeWalt 20V Max has a slightly larger ecosystem of tools, while Milwaukee M18 is known for slightly higher torque output. Both brands offer 3-year warranties and strong service networks. For most homeowners, either brand will serve you well. Professionals often pick based on which platform their existing tools use.
Final Verdict on the Best Drills in 2026
After three months of testing, the DEWALT 20V Max DCD771C2 is the drill I recommend to most people. It delivers professional-grade power in a homeowner-friendly package, comes with two batteries and a contractor bag, and has earned its 4.8 star rating through years of real-world service.
For deck builders and anyone facing heavy screw-driving work, the DEWALT 20V MAX combo kit adds an impact driver that saves your wrists. For professionals and serious DIYers, the Makita XFD131 delivers the torque and durability that daily use demands. For budget buyers, the AVID POWER 20V set handles household tasks at a fraction of the cost.
Whichever drill you choose, focus on the battery platform and the warranty. A quality drill should last a decade or more, and the batteries you buy today will power the tools you add to your collection for years to come. Take your time, match the drill to your projects, and you will end up with a tool that earns its place in your garage.
