The best cordless drill for you depends on your needs, but for overall performance, durability, and user satisfaction, brands like DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee consistently earn top ratings. Consider your project types, budget, and desired features to find your perfect match.
Are you looking to buy a new cordless drill and feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the choices? It’s a common problem! So many brands, so many models, each promising to be the best. You want a drill that’s powerful enough for tough jobs, easy to handle, and built to last. Getting it wrong means frustration and wasted money.
Don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place. We’re going to break down what makes a cordless drill “rated the best” and highlight some of the top contenders that consistently impress users and experts alike. We’ll cover everything from power and battery life to comfort and specific features. Let’s walk through each step with real examples to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding What Makes a Cordless Drill “Rated the Best”
When we talk about a cordless drill being “rated the best,” it’s not just about one single factor. It’s a combination of many things that come together to create a tool that’s reliable, efficient, and a joy to use. Think of it like a great chef’s knife – it needs to be sharp, balanced, and comfortable in your hand.
Here’s what goes into a top-rated cordless drill:
Power (Torque): This is the twisting force the drill can apply. More torque means it can handle tougher materials like dense wood or driving large screws without bogging down. It’s often measured in inch-pounds (in-lbs) or Newton-meters (Nm). For general DIY, 300-500 in-lbs is usually plenty. For heavier tasks, you might want 500+ in-lbs.
Speed (RPM): Revolutions per minute (RPM) tells you how fast the drill bit spins. Most drills have variable speed settings, allowing you to go slow for precise work or fast for drilling through softer materials. Two speed settings (e.g., 0-450 RPM and 0-1,700 RPM) are standard and very useful.
Battery Life and Type: Cordless drills run on rechargeable batteries, usually lithium-ion (Li-ion). The voltage (V) of the battery often indicates power (12V for lighter tasks, 18V or 20V for most DIY and professional work, and higher for specialized tools). Battery capacity, measured in amp-hours (Ah), determines how long it will run on a single charge. Longer Ah means more runtime.
Ergonomics and Comfort: A drill will spend time in your hand. How it feels matters. Good weight distribution, a comfortable grip, and a well-placed trigger can make a huge difference, especially during long projects. You don’t want hand fatigue to cut your work short.
Durability and Build Quality: A “best” drill should be built to last. This means robust housing, quality components, and resistance to dust and moisture if you plan to use it in challenging environments. Many professional-grade drills have metal gear housings for added toughness.
Features: This can include things like:
LED Lights: Essential for illuminating your work area, especially in dim spaces.
Brushless Motors: These motors are more efficient, offer longer runtimes, provide more power, and last longer than brushed motors. They are a hallmark of higher-end drills.
Clutch Settings: Allows you to control the depth at which screws are driven, preventing over-driving and damaging materials.
Chuck Type: Most drills use a keyless chuck, which allows you to change bits quickly without a tool. The size of the chuck (e.g., 1/2 inch) indicates the largest shank drill bit it can hold.
Top Cordless Drill Brands and Their Strengths
When you look at reviews and user feedback, certain brands consistently rise to the top. These companies have a long history of producing quality tools and are known for innovation and reliability.
DeWalt
DeWalt is a powerhouse in the tool industry, particularly for professionals and serious DIYers. They are renowned for their durability, power, and extensive battery platform.
Strengths:
Robust Build Quality: DeWalt tools are built to withstand tough job site conditions.
Powerful Performance: Their brushless motors deliver excellent torque and speed.
Excellent Battery System: The 20V MAX system is highly regarded, with a wide range of tools that share batteries.
Innovation: They are often at the forefront of new tool technology.
Popular Models: The DeWalt DCD791 (20V MAX XR Brushless Compact Drill/Driver) is a perennial favorite for its balance of power, size, and features. For more demanding tasks, the DeWalt DCD996 (20V MAX XR Brushless Hammer Drill/Driver) offers increased power and a hammer function for masonry.
Makita
Makita is another leading brand, known for its lightweight designs, user-friendly features, and impressive battery technology. They offer a vast ecosystem of cordless tools.
Strengths:
Ergonomics: Makita drills are often praised for their comfortable grips and balanced weight.
Advanced Battery Technology: Their 18V LXT system is one of the most comprehensive on the market, offering excellent performance and quick charging.
Quiet Operation: Many Makita drills are designed for quieter operation, which is a plus on job sites or in residential areas.
Durability: Despite their lighter feel, Makita tools are built to last.
Popular Models: The Makita XPH07Z (18V LXT Brushless Cordless Hammer Drill Kit) is a top performer, offering excellent power and efficiency. For a more compact option, the Makita FD07R1 (18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 2-Speed Drill/Driver Kit) is a great choice for versatility.
Milwaukee
Milwaukee has rapidly gained a reputation for cutting-edge technology, raw power, and innovative features, especially with their M18 FUEL line. They cater heavily to professionals who demand the best.
Strengths:
Unmatched Power: The M18 FUEL series is known for delivering exceptional torque and performance, often outperforming competitors.
Brushless Technology: Milwaukee heavily invests in brushless motors for maximum efficiency and power.
Smart Features: Many of their tools incorporate advanced electronics for better performance and battery management.
Durability: Built tough for demanding professional use.
Popular Models: The Milwaukee 2804-22 (M18 FUEL 1/2″ Hammer Drill/Driver) is a beast, offering incredible power for its size. The Milwaukee 2701-20 (M18 FUEL 1/2″ Drill/Driver) is another excellent option for those who don’t need the hammer function but still want top-tier performance.
Other Reputable Brands to Consider
While DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee often lead the pack, other brands offer excellent cordless drills that are highly rated by users and professionals:
Bosch: Known for precision engineering, innovative features, and comfortable ergonomics. Their 18V cordless system is robust.
Ridgid: Offers great value for money, with powerful tools and a strong lifetime service agreement.
Hilti: A premium brand, favored by many construction professionals for extreme durability and performance, though often at a higher price point.
Choosing the Right Cordless Drill for Your Needs
The “best” drill for one person might not be the best for another. Your specific projects and preferences will guide your choice.
For the Weekend DIYer / Homeowner
If you’re tackling common household tasks, assembling furniture, hanging shelves, and occasional small projects, you don’t need the absolute most powerful drill.
What to look for:
12V or 18V/20V platform: 18V/20V offers more power and longer runtime, but 12V can be lighter and more maneuverable for simple tasks.
Brushless motor: Even for DIY, a brushless motor will give you better performance and battery life.
Good ergonomics: You want something comfortable to hold.
Decent torque: Around 300-450 in-lbs is usually sufficient.
Keyless chuck: Standard on most, but ensure it’s easy to tighten and loosen.
LED light: Very handy for seeing your work.
Top Picks in this category might include:
DeWalt 20V MAX XR Brushless Compact Drill/Driver (DCD791)
Makita 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Drill/Driver (XFD11ZB)
Bosch 18V EC Brushless Compact Drill/Driver (HDB180-02)
For the Serious DIYer / Hobbyist
If you’re building decks, doing renovations, working with denser woods, or driving many screws, you’ll need a bit more power and durability.
What to look for:
18V/20V platform: This is the sweet spot for power and battery life.
Brushless motor: Essential for sustained performance.
Higher torque: Aim for 500+ in-lbs.
Hammer drill function: Useful if you ever need to drill into brick or concrete.
Metal chuck and gear housing: For increased durability.
Multiple speed settings: For better control.
Top Picks in this category might include:
DeWalt 20V MAX XR Brushless Hammer Drill/Driver (DCD996)
Makita 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Hammer Drill Kit (XPH07Z)
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2″ Hammer Drill/Driver (2804-22)
Ridgid 18V Brushless Compact Drill/Driver (R87003)
For the Professional Contractor
Professionals need tools that can withstand daily, heavy-duty use. Reliability, power, durability, and battery life are paramount.
What to look for:
High-performance 18V/20V or higher platforms: Brands like Milwaukee’s FUEL, DeWalt’s XR, and Makita’s XPT are designed for this.
Maximum torque and speed: You need to power through any task.
Brushless motors: Non-negotiable for efficiency and longevity.
Robust construction: Metal gear housings, durable exteriors.
Advanced battery management: Quick charging, efficient power delivery.
Features like belt clips, LED work lights, and compact designs: For convenience on the job.
Top Picks in this category are often the flagship models from:
Milwaukee (M18 FUEL series)
DeWalt (20V MAX XR series)
Makita (18V LXT series)
Hilti (SF series)
Key Features to Compare
When you’re looking at specific models, these features will help you differentiate and make your final decision.
Brushless vs. Brushed Motors
This is a significant difference in modern cordless drills.
Brushed Motors: These are the traditional type. They use carbon brushes to transfer electricity to the rotor. They are less efficient, generate more heat, and the brushes wear out over time, requiring replacement.
Pros: Generally less expensive.
Cons: Less power, shorter runtime per charge, shorter lifespan, less efficient.
Brushless Motors: These motors use an electronic controller instead of carbon brushes. This allows for more precise control of power and speed.
Pros: More power, longer runtime, longer lifespan, more efficient, less heat generation, generally quieter.
Cons: More expensive.
For most users today, especially if budget allows, a brushless motor is the way to go for a significant upgrade in performance and longevity.
Battery Voltage and Capacity (V & Ah)
Voltage (V): This is a measure of the electrical potential. Higher voltage generally means more power.
12V: Good for light-duty tasks, smaller and lighter.
18V/20V: The standard for most DIY and professional use. Offers a great balance of power, runtime, and weight. (Note: 20V MAX is the same as 18V nominal, it’s a marketing term for peak voltage).
36V/40V and higher: For very heavy-duty or specialized tools.
Amp-Hours (Ah): This measures the battery’s capacity – how much energy it can store. A higher Ah rating means the battery can power the drill for longer on a single charge.
1.5 Ah to 2.0 Ah: Standard for compact drills, good for lighter use.
3.0 Ah to 5.0 Ah: Common for standard and performance drills, offering good runtime.
6.0 Ah and above: For extended runtime on heavy-duty applications.
Tip: If you plan to buy other tools from a specific brand, investing in their battery platform (e.g., DeWalt 20V MAX, Makita 18V LXT, Milwaukee M18) is cost-effective, as you can share batteries.
Chuck Size and Type
Chuck Size: The most common chuck sizes are 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch.
3/8-inch: Found on smaller, lighter drills. Suitable for smaller bits and lighter tasks.
1/2-inch: Found on most standard and heavy-duty drills. Can accept larger bits and has a wider range of compatibility. It’s generally preferred for versatility.
Chuck Type:
Keyless Chuck: The most common type. You tighten and loosen the chuck by hand. This allows for quick and easy bit changes.
Spline Drive / Offset Attachments: Some professional drills may have specialized chucks for specific applications, but for general use, keyless is standard.
For most users, a 1/2-inch keyless chuck is ideal.
Ergonomics and Weight
Grip: A rubberized, ergonomic grip will reduce vibration and provide a secure hold.
Balance: A well-balanced drill feels less tiring to use. The weight distribution between the body and the battery pack plays a role.
Weight: Lighter drills are easier to maneuver, especially overhead or in tight spaces. However, more powerful drills often weigh a bit more. Consider what you’ll be doing most often.
Essential Accessories for Your Cordless Drill
Once you have your drill, a few accessories can greatly enhance its usefulness.
Drill Bit Set: A good set of drill bits for wood, metal, and masonry is essential. Look for high-speed steel (HSS) for metal and wood, and carbide-tipped bits for masonry.
Example: Bosch Daredevil High-Speed Steel Drill Bit Set (for wood) or DeWalt Titanium Pilot Point Metal Drill Bits.
Screwdriver Bit Set: Including Phillips, flathead, Torx, and square drive bits. Magnetic tips are very helpful.
Example: Makita Magnetic Bit Set.
Carrying Case: Most drills come with a case or bag, which is great for storage and transport.
Extra Batteries: If you plan on extended use or professional work, having a spare battery charged and ready is invaluable.
Work Gloves and Safety Glasses: Always protect yourself!
Maintaining Your Cordless Drill
To ensure your “best” cordless drill lasts as long as possible and performs optimally, follow these maintenance tips:
1. Keep it Clean: Wipe down your drill after each use, especially if it’s been exposed to dust or debris. Use a dry or slightly damp cloth.
2. Store Properly: Store your drill and batteries in a dry, temperate environment. Avoid extreme heat or cold.
3. Battery Care:
Avoid fully discharging batteries regularly.
Don’t leave batteries in a charger indefinitely after they are fully charged.
Store batteries at about a 40-50% charge if storing for extended periods.
Keep battery contacts clean.
4. Chuck Maintenance: Occasionally, check the chuck for debris and ensure it opens and closes smoothly.
5. Avoid Overheating: If the drill feels excessively hot, let it cool down before continuing to use it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cordless Drills
Q1: What is the difference between a drill and a hammer drill?
A1: A standard drill rotates to drill holes or drive screws. A hammer drill adds a hammering action (like a rapid pounding motion) to the rotation, which is very effective for drilling into hard materials like concrete or brick.
Q2: Are brushless drills really that much better than brushed drills?
A2: Yes, brushless drills generally offer significantly better performance. They are more efficient, meaning longer runtimes from the battery. They also provide more power and torque, have a longer lifespan, and generate less heat, making them more reliable for demanding tasks.
Q3: How do I choose the right battery voltage for my needs?
A3: For light DIY tasks, 12V drills are lighter and more compact. For most home use, renovations, and tougher jobs, 18V or 2
