Cordless Drills
Best Cordless Drills for Homeowners and Pros
5 picks compared
8 min read
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The short answerThe Milwaukee 2804-20 M18 Fuel Hammer Drill is our top pick for its unmatched power, excellent battery life, and rugged build. It handles heavy-duty tasks with ease while remaining compact enough for everyday use.
?How we pickedWe compare published specifications, safety certifications and thousands of verified owner reviews, and we do not physically test every unit. Read the full process in our review methodology.
Milwaukee 2804-20 M18 Fuel Hammer Drill
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 Best overall
The Milwaukee 2804-20 delivers pro-grade power with 1,200 in-lbs of torque and a brushless motor. Its compact design fits tight spaces, and the M18 battery platform offers long runtime and fast charging.
Voltage 18VMax Torque 1,200 in-lbsChuck Size 1/2 inBattery Included 2 x 5.0 AhWeight 3.5 lbs (with battery)
- Exceptional torque for heavy drilling
- Compact and lightweight for its class
- Excellent battery life with rapid charging
- Durable all-metal chuck and gearbox
- Higher price point
- No belt clip included
Best for: Contractors and serious DIYers who need maximum power and reliability for demanding tasks like drilling into masonry or driving large lag screws.
Buy it if: Professionals who use their drill daily and want a tool that can handle any job without bogging down. Also ideal for homeowners tackling major renovations.
Skip it if: Casual DIYers who only need a drill for occasional light tasks. The cost may be overkill if you rarely drill into hard materials.
Alternative to consider: DeWalt DCD791D2
DeWalt DCD791D2 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Best value
The DeWalt DCD791D2 offers a great balance of power, runtime, and affordability. With 820 in-lbs of torque and a brushless motor, it handles most tasks with ease. The kit includes two 5.0 Ah batteries and a charger.
Voltage 20VMax Torque 820 in-lbsChuck Size 1/2 inBattery Included 2 x 5.0 AhWeight 3.6 lbs (with battery)
- Excellent power-to-weight ratio
- Long battery life with two included batteries
- Durable construction with rubber overmold
- LED light with delay feature
- Hammer mode is less aggressive than Milwaukee
- Chuck can slip under heavy load
Best for: Versatile use for both DIYers and professionals who need a reliable drill for framing, deck building, and general drilling.
Buy it if: Homeowners who want a drill that can handle almost any project without breaking the bank. Also good for tradespeople who want a backup drill.
Skip it if: Users who need maximum torque for heavy concrete drilling or who prefer a more compact tool.
Alternative to consider: Milwaukee 2804-20
Makita XFD131 18V LXT Hammer Drill
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 Best for precision
The Makita XFD131 combines high torque (1,090 in-lbs) with a compact, lightweight design. Its variable speed trigger and electric brake offer excellent control for precise drilling. The LXT battery system is one of the most reliable.
Voltage 18VMax Torque 1,090 in-lbsChuck Size 1/2 inBattery Included 2 x 5.0 AhWeight 3.4 lbs (with battery)
- High torque in a compact package
- Excellent build quality and ergonomics
- Smooth variable speed trigger
- Battery charge indicator on tool
- Batteries are slightly heavier than competitors
- No belt clip included
Best for: Users who need a powerful yet maneuverable drill for overhead work or tight spaces. Great for cabinet installation and furniture assembly.
Buy it if: Carpenters, electricians, and DIYers who value precision and comfort. The Makita is a favorite among those who drill many holes daily.
Skip it if: Users who need the absolute highest torque for heavy masonry or who prefer a larger battery platform.
Alternative to consider: DeWalt DCD791D2
Bosch PS31-2A 12V Max 3/8 in Drill/Driver
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 Best compact
The Bosch PS31-2A is ultra-compact and lightweight, perfect for light-duty tasks and tight spots. Despite its small size, it delivers 265 in-lbs of torque, enough for driving screws and drilling small holes. The 12V platform keeps it pocket-friendly.
Voltage 12VMax Torque 265 in-lbsChuck Size 3/8 inBattery Included 2 x 2.0 AhWeight 2.0 lbs (with battery)
- Very compact and lightweight
- Great for tight spaces and overhead work
- Two batteries included
- Bit holder integrated into tool
- Limited power for heavy tasks
- No hammer drill function
Best for: Light-duty tasks like assembling furniture, hanging curtains, or drilling into drywall. Ideal for an everyday carry drill.
Buy it if: Apartment dwellers, DIYers who do small projects, and professionals who need a secondary drill for quick tasks.
Skip it if: Anyone who needs to drill into concrete or drive large screws regularly. The 12V system may struggle with heavy use.
Alternative to consider: Ryobi P251
Ryobi P251 18V One+ Hammer Drill
★★★★★ 4.3 / 5 Best budget
The Ryobi P251 offers solid performance at an affordable price. With 754 in-lbs of torque and a brushless motor, it handles most DIY tasks. The One+ battery system is compatible with over 200 tools, making it a great starter kit.
Voltage 18VMax Torque 754 in-lbsChuck Size 1/2 inBattery Included 2 x 4.0 AhWeight 3.8 lbs (with battery)
- Very affordable for the features
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- Wide range of compatible One+ tools
- LED light with mode selector
- Less durable than premium brands
- Battery life is average
Best for: Budget-conscious DIYers who want a reliable drill for home projects without spending a lot. Great for starting a Ryobi tool collection.
Buy it if: First-time homeowners, hobbyists, and anyone who needs a drill for occasional use around the house.
Skip it if: Professionals or heavy users who need a tool that can withstand daily abuse. The build quality may not hold up to constant use.
Alternative to consider: Bosch PS31-2A
Choosing the best cordless drill can be overwhelming with so many options from top brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, Bosch, and Ryobi. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback and key decision factors to help you find the perfect drill for your needs. Whether you are a weekend DIYer or a professional contractor, we have a recommendation for you.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Cordless Drill
When shopping for a cordless drill, consider these important features:
- Voltage: Higher voltage (18V or 20V) means more power and longer runtime. 12V drills are lighter and great for light tasks.
- Torque: Measured in inch-pounds (in-lbs). More torque allows drilling into harder materials and driving larger screws. Look for at least 500 in-lbs for general use.
- Battery System: Brushless motors are more efficient. Check the battery capacity (Ah) for runtime. A kit with two batteries is convenient.
- Chuck Size: 1/2 inch chucks are standard for most drills. 3/8 inch chucks are common on compact models.
- Hammer Function: Useful for drilling into masonry. Not necessary for wood or metal drilling.
- Weight and Ergonomics: A lighter drill reduces fatigue. Rubber grips and balanced design improve comfort.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Cordless Drill
Many buyers make these errors:
- Buying too much power: A high-torque drill can be heavy and overkill for light tasks. Match the drill to your typical projects.
- Ignoring the battery platform: If you already own tools from a brand, stick with that battery system to save money on batteries and chargers.
- Choosing brushed over brushless: Brushless motors are more efficient and last longer. The extra cost is worth it for frequent use.
- Not checking warranty: Most brands offer 3-year warranties. Some offer 5 years. A longer warranty indicates better quality.
- Forgetting about accessories: Some kits include a case, extra batteries, and bits. These add value.
By considering these factors, you can confidently choose a cordless drill that will serve you well for years. Check the current price on Amazon for your favorite model.
Questions people ask
What voltage cordless drill should I buy?
For most DIY tasks, an 18V or 20V drill provides enough power. Professionals often prefer 18V (or 20V max) for heavy-duty work. 12V drills are suitable for light tasks and tight spaces. Higher voltage usually means more torque and longer runtime, but also more weight.
What is the difference between brushed and brushless motors?
Brushless motors are more efficient, providing longer battery life, more torque, and less maintenance. They are generally more expensive but worth the investment for frequent use. Brushed motors are cheaper but less efficient and wear out faster. For cordless drills, brushless is recommended for most users.
How much torque do I need in a cordless drill?
For light tasks like driving small screws or drilling into drywall, 200-400 in-lbs is enough. For general DIY (furniture, wood), 500-800 in-lbs is ideal. For heavy-duty work like drilling into concrete or driving large lag bolts, look for 800+ in-lbs. Professional drills often exceed 1,000 in-lbs.
Can I use a cordless drill for driving screws?
Yes, most cordless drills have a clutch that prevents over-tightening. However, for high-volume screw driving, an impact driver is faster and reduces wrist fatigue. A drill is fine for occasional screw driving.
What battery capacity (Ah) should I choose?
For occasional use, 2.0-4.0 Ah batteries are sufficient. For all-day use, 5.0 Ah or higher provides longer runtime. Higher Ah batteries are heavier but reduce downtime. Many drills come with two batteries so you can use one while the other charges.
The bottom lineSo which one?
For most users, the Milwaukee 2804-20 is the best cordless drill overall due to its exceptional power and build quality. If you are on a budget, the Ryobi P251 offers great value. For compact needs, the Bosch PS31-2A is unbeatable. Consider your typical tasks and choose accordingly.
