Brushless Corded Drills: The Powerhouse You Didn’t Know You Needed!
Yes, brushless corded drills exist and offer superior power, efficiency, and longevity compared to their brushed counterparts, making them an excellent choice for demanding tasks.
Have you ever wished your corded drill had that extra bit of oomph? Or perhaps you’ve found yourself frustrated with the heat and wear that brushed motors can bring? Many DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike wonder if the advanced technology found in cordless tools, like brushless motors, has made its way into the reliable world of corded drills. It’s a common question because we all love the convenience of a corded tool that never runs out of battery, but also appreciate the performance benefits of modern motor technology. The good news is, you’re in the right place to find out! Let’s dive into the world of brushless corded drills and see why they might be the perfect addition to your toolkit.
What Exactly is a Brushless Motor?
Before we get to corded drills, it’s helpful to understand what makes a brushless motor different. Think of it like this: traditional electric motors have little carbon brushes that act as a bridge, sending electricity to the spinning part (the rotor). Over time, these brushes wear down and need replacing. They also create friction and heat.
Brushless motors, on the other hand, have the magnets on the rotor and the coils on the outside. Electronic controls (the “brain”) tell the coils when to energize, creating a magnetic field that pushes and pulls the rotor magnets. This means no physical contact, no brushes to wear out, and less wasted energy.
Are There Brushless Corded Drills? The Answer is YES!
It’s a common misconception that brushless technology is exclusive to cordless tools. However, the benefits of brushless motors – increased power, longer lifespan, better efficiency, and less heat – are highly desirable in corded tools too. Manufacturers have indeed developed and released corded drills that utilize this advanced motor technology. These tools are designed for users who need consistent, high performance without the limitations of battery life.
Why Choose a Brushless Corded Drill?
So, why would you opt for a corded drill with a brushless motor when you can get a cordless one? It all comes down to specific needs and preferences:
- Uninterrupted Power: The most obvious advantage. No battery means no downtime for charging. If you have a long project or need to drill many holes consecutively, a corded drill is your reliable workhorse.
- Maximum Power Output: Brushless motors are inherently more efficient. When paired with a corded power source, they can deliver consistent, high torque and speed without the voltage sag that can sometimes occur with batteries under heavy load. This means more power for tough materials and demanding tasks.
- Durability and Longevity: With no brushes to wear out, brushless motors generally have a longer lifespan. This translates to a tool that can withstand more rigorous use over time.
- Improved Efficiency and Less Heat: The electronic commutation in brushless motors reduces energy loss due to friction and heat. This means more power goes into your drilling and less is wasted as heat, leading to a cooler-running tool and potentially longer runtime for the motor itself.
- Quieter Operation: While not as dramatic a difference as with cordless tools, brushless motors can sometimes operate a bit more quietly than brushed motors due to the lack of brush friction.
Understanding the Features of Brushless Corded Drills
When you’re looking at brushless corded drills, you’ll find they often boast features similar to high-end cordless models, but with the constant power supply of a cord:
- Variable Speed Control: Essential for precision. You can start slowly for accurate hole placement and then ramp up the speed for efficient drilling.
- Torque Settings/Clutches: These allow you to adjust the power to prevent over-tightening screws, which can strip the screw head or damage the material.
- Hammer Functionality: Many brushless corded drills also include a hammer drill mode, making them suitable for drilling into masonry like brick and concrete.
- Ergonomic Design: Despite the added power, manufacturers focus on comfortable grips and balanced weight distribution for ease of use.
- Durable Construction: Expect robust housings and quality components designed for professional or heavy-duty DIY use.
How to Choose the Right Brushless Corded Drill
Selecting the best tool for your needs involves considering a few key factors:
1. Determine Your Primary Use
Are you using it for light DIY around the house, or for heavy-duty construction and renovation projects? For general tasks, a standard brushless corded drill will suffice. For more demanding jobs like drilling into concrete or working with large fasteners, you’ll want a more powerful model, perhaps with a hammer function and higher amperage.
2. Check the Power Rating (Amps)
For corded tools, amperage (A) is a good indicator of power. Higher amperage generally means more torque and capability. For most home use, 5-7 amps might be sufficient. For professional or heavy-duty applications, look for 8 amps or higher.
3. Consider Speed and Torque Settings
Look for drills with a good range of speed settings. A lower speed is better for driving screws, while a higher speed is ideal for drilling holes. Multiple torque settings give you more control and prevent damage to your materials or fasteners.
4. Evaluate Additional Features
Do you need a hammer drill function? A keyless chuck for quick bit changes? A comfortable grip and a long power cord? Make a list of your must-have features.
5. Read Reviews and Compare Brands
Reputable tool brands often have excellent brushless corded drill options. Look for reviews from other users who have similar projects to yours. This can provide valuable insights into a tool’s real-world performance and durability.
Popular Brands Offering Brushless Corded Drills
While the market for brushless corded drills might not be as vast as for cordless, several reputable manufacturers offer high-quality options. Brands known for their robust power tools often include these advanced motor technologies in their corded lines:
- DeWalt: Known for professional-grade tools, DeWalt often incorporates advanced motor technology into their corded offerings.
- Makita: Another leader in power tools, Makita provides durable and powerful options for various applications.
- Bosch: Bosch offers a range of corded drills, some of which feature brushless motors for enhanced performance and longevity.
- Milwaukee: While heavily focused on their cordless M18 FUEL line, Milwaukee also produces powerful corded tools where brushless technology can be found.
It’s always a good idea to check the latest product lines from these brands as technology and model availability can change.
Brushless Corded Drill vs. Brushed Corded Drill: A Quick Comparison
Let’s summarize the key differences to help you make an informed decision:
Brushless Corded Drill Advantages:
- More power and torque
- Longer motor lifespan
- Higher efficiency, less heat
- Potentially quieter operation
- More precise speed control
Brushed Corded Drill Advantages:
- Often more affordable
- Widely available
- Simpler technology (can be easier to repair for some)
When is a Brushed Corded Drill Still a Good Choice?
While brushless technology offers clear advantages, brushed corded drills are not obsolete. If you are on a tighter budget, or if your drilling needs are very light and infrequent (e.g., hanging a few pictures, assembling flat-pack furniture), a good quality brushed corded drill can still be a perfectly adequate and cost-effective choice. The key is to match the tool to the task and your budget.
Safety First!
No matter what type of drill you use, safety is paramount. Always:
- Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
- Ensure the workpiece is securely clamped.
- Use the correct drill bit for the material you are drilling.
- Keep your work area clean and well-lit.
- Read the manufacturer’s instruction manual before use.
Safety Warning: Always unplug your corded drill before changing bits or making any adjustments. Ensure the power cord is in good condition and not frayed or damaged.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Are brushless corded drills more expensive than brushed ones?
Generally, yes. The advanced motor technology and electronic controls in brushless drills typically make them more expensive than their brushed counterparts. However, the increased performance, efficiency, and lifespan can often justify the higher initial cost for many users.
Q2: Can I use any drill bit with a brushless corded drill?
Yes, you can use standard drill bits with a brushless corded drill, provided they are compatible with the drill’s chuck size. The motor technology doesn’t change the type of bits you can use, but the drill’s power might allow you to use larger or more specialized bits more effectively.
Q3: Do brushless corded drills require maintenance?
Brushless motors themselves require very little maintenance as there are no brushes to replace. However, like any power tool, it’s good practice to keep the drill clean, ensure ventilation ports are clear, and check the power cord for any damage.
Q4: What is the main advantage of a corded drill over a cordless one?
The primary advantage of a corded drill is consistent, unlimited power. You don’t have to worry about batteries running out or needing to be recharged, making them ideal for continuous, heavy-duty work.
Q5: Are brushless corded drills significantly more powerful than brushed corded drills?
While both types can be powerful, brushless motors are generally more efficient and can deliver higher torque and speed for their size and power input compared to brushed motors. This often translates to a noticeable difference in performance, especially under heavy load.
Q6: Where can I buy a brushless corded drill?
You can find brushless corded drills at most major home improvement stores, hardware stores, and online retailers that specialize in power tools. Checking the websites of brands like DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, and Milwaukee is a good starting point.
Conclusion
The world of power tools is constantly evolving, and the integration of brushless motor technology into corded drills is a testament to that. If you’re looking for a tool that combines the relentless power of a corded connection with the efficiency, durability, and enhanced performance of modern brushless technology, then a brushless corded drill is an excellent investment. They are powerful, reliable, and built to tackle a wide range of demanding tasks, making them a valuable asset for any serious DIYer or professional tradesperson. So, the next time you need a drill that won’t quit, consider the advanced performance of a brushless corded model!