Find the best deals on cordless drills by checking major online retailers, manufacturer websites, and specialized tool stores. Look for seasonal sales, open-box options, and bundle deals for significant savings.
Finding the right cordless drill at a great price can feel like a treasure hunt. Many people wonder, “Where do you find the cordless drills to use” that offer both quality and affordability. It’s a common question because the market is flooded with options, and knowing where to look can save you a lot of time and money. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! This guide will show you the best places to hunt for those fantastic cordless drill deals, making sure you get a tool that’s perfect for your projects without breaking the bank. Let’s walk through each step with real examples.
Your Ultimate Guide to Finding Cordless Drill Deals
Shopping for tools, especially something as essential as a cordless drill, can be exciting. But with so many brands, models, and price points, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. The good news is that with a little know-how, you can snag a fantastic cordless drill at a price that makes you feel like a pro.
Why Finding a Good Deal Matters
A cordless drill is a staple for any DIY enthusiast or professional tradesperson. It can help you hang shelves, assemble furniture, build decks, and tackle countless other tasks. However, quality drills can be an investment. Finding a good deal means you can get a more powerful, durable, or feature-rich drill for your budget, or simply save money to put towards other tools or project materials.
Where to Start Your Search
The first step is knowing where to look. Different places offer different advantages when it comes to finding deals.
##### 1. Major Online Retailers: The Go-To for Variety and Convenience
These giants are often your first stop for a reason. They stock a vast array of brands and models, making it easy to compare prices and read customer reviews.
Amazon: This is arguably the most popular place for online shopping. You’ll find everything from budget-friendly brands to high-end professional tools.
Tips for Amazon:
Use Price Trackers: Tools like CamelCamelCamel can show you the price history of a drill, helping you identify if the current price is a genuine deal.
Check “Amazon Renewed”: This section offers refurbished products that have been inspected and tested to work like new, often at a significant discount.
Look for Lightning Deals and Daily Deals: These limited-time offers can present excellent savings.
Read Reviews Carefully: Pay attention to both positive and negative feedback to understand the drill’s performance and potential issues.
Walmart: While known for its physical stores, Walmart’s online presence is substantial. They often have competitive pricing, especially on mid-range brands.
Tips for Walmart:
Compare Online vs. In-Store: Prices can vary, so check both.
Look for Rollbacks and Special Buys: These are Walmart’s term for sales and discounts.
Target: Similar to Walmart, Target offers a curated selection of tools, often focusing on popular brands and good value.
Tips for Target:
Utilize the Target App: It often features exclusive coupons and deal notifications.
Check for RedCard Discounts: If you have a Target RedCard, you get an extra 5% off many purchases.
##### 2. Manufacturer Websites: Direct from the Source
Sometimes, the best deals are found directly from the companies that make the drills. This is especially true during holiday sales or when they are clearing out older models.
DeWalt: Known for its professional-grade tools, DeWalt often has promotions on its website, especially around major holidays like Black Friday or Father’s Day.
Makita: Another powerhouse in the tool industry, Makita frequently offers deals on kits and bare tools (tools only, without batteries or chargers) on its official site.
Milwaukee Tool: Highly regarded for its M18 and M12 battery systems, Milwaukee’s website is a good place to check for new releases, promotions, and often, bundles.
Ryobi: A popular choice for DIYers, Ryobi frequently runs sales on its 18V ONE+ system through its own website or authorized dealers.
Bosch: Offering both DIY and professional lines, Bosch’s website can be a source for discounts on their innovative tools.
Why buy direct?
Authenticity: You’re guaranteed to get a genuine product.
Latest Models: You often see new releases and promotions first.
Exclusive Bundles: Manufacturers sometimes create special packages only available on their sites.
##### 3. Specialized Tool Stores: For the Enthusiast and Professional
These stores cater specifically to tool users and often have knowledgeable staff who can help you find the right drill. They might not always have the lowest prices on every drill, but they often have the best deals on specific brands or higher-end models.
Home Depot: A massive retailer for home improvement, Home Depot carries a wide range of cordless drills from brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, Ryobi, and Makita.
Tips for Home Depot:
Check the “Special Buy of the Day”: This is a daily online deal that can include tools.
Look for Rebates: Many brands offer mail-in rebates that can significantly lower the final cost. Keep an eye out for these in-store and online.
Explore “Open Box” or “Special Services” Sections: Sometimes you can find returned or floor models at a discount.
Lowe’s: Similar to Home Depot, Lowe’s is another excellent source for tools. They often have exclusive deals with certain brands or offer price matching.
Tips for Lowe’s:
Sign Up for MyLowe’s: This loyalty program can offer exclusive coupons and early access to sales.
Price Guarantee: Lowe’s will often match competitor prices, so do your homework.
Ace Hardware: Known for its helpful staff and curated selection, Ace Hardware can be a great place to find deals, especially on brands like DeWalt and Makita. They often have weekly ads with good savings.
Industrial Tool Distributors (Online & Brick-and-Mortar): Stores like ToolNut, ToolUp, or even specialized sections on sites like Grainger (for professionals) can sometimes offer competitive pricing, especially on bulk purchases or professional-grade tools.
##### 4. Warehouse Clubs: The Hidden Gems
If you’re a member, warehouse clubs can be surprisingly good places to find deals on cordless drills, especially in kits.
Costco: Costco often carries high-quality drill kits from brands like DeWalt or Makita, bundled with multiple batteries, chargers, and accessories. The price per item in these kits can be very attractive.
Tips for Costco:
Membership Required: You’ll need a membership to purchase.
Limited Selection: They don’t carry every brand, so selection is narrower than big box stores.
Check Online: Costco.com often has a wider selection than physical stores.
Sam’s Club: Similar to Costco, Sam’s Club offers bundled deals on tools that can provide excellent value.
##### 5. Discount and Outlet Stores: For the Savvy Shopper
Don’t overlook places that specialize in clearance or discounted items.
Factory Outlets: Some tool manufacturers have official outlet stores or sections on their websites where they sell refurbished or discontinued models.
Overstock.com / Wayfair: While not primarily tool stores, these sites can sometimes have deals on drill brands, especially during major sales events.
Reconditioned Tool Websites: Many reputable tool dealers also sell “reconditioned” or “refurbished” tools. These are often tools that were returned, had a minor issue, or were used as display models. They are typically tested, repaired if necessary, and come with a warranty, offering significant savings.
Smart Strategies for Snagging the Best Deals
Knowing where to look is half the battle. The other half is knowing how to look.
Timing is Everything: Sales Cycles
Black Friday/Cyber Monday: This is the king of all sales. You’ll find deep discounts on tools across almost all retailers.
Holiday Weekends: Memorial Day, Labor Day, Fourth of July, Presidents’ Day – these often see significant promotions on tools.
Father’s Day: A popular time for tool sales, as drills are often marketed as gifts.
Spring/Fall: As seasons change, retailers often clear out older inventory to make way for new models, leading to discounts.
Understand “Bare Tool” vs. “Kit”
Bare Tool: This is just the drill itself. It does not include batteries or a charger. This is a great option if you already own tools from the same battery platform (e.g., you have DeWalt 20V batteries already).
Kit: This includes the drill, one or more batteries, a charger, and often a carrying case. Kits offer convenience but can be more expensive upfront. If you’re starting from scratch, a kit is usually the best value. If you’re expanding your tool collection, buying bare tools can save you money.
Bundle Deals and Promotions
“Buy X, Get Y Free” or Discounted: Retailers often bundle drills with other tools (like impact drivers or saws) or accessories. Sometimes, buying a kit comes with a free battery or accessory.
Battery Promotions: Keep an eye out for deals where buying a tool kit gets you a free additional battery, or where batteries are heavily discounted. Batteries are often the most expensive part of a cordless tool system.
Rebates and Mail-in Offers
Many manufacturers offer mail-in rebates, especially on higher-priced items or during specific promotional periods. These can save you an additional $10, $20, or even more. Always fill these out promptly!
Price Matching
Some retailers will match the price of a competitor if you find the same item advertised for less. Check the store’s policy.
Open-Box & Refurbished Tools
Open-Box: These are items that were purchased and returned, often unopened or only briefly used. They are usually sold at a discount and are inspected to be in good working order.
Refurbished/Reconditioned: These are tools that may have had a minor defect, were returned, or were used in a display. They are professionally repaired, inspected, and cleaned, and typically come with a warranty (though sometimes shorter than new tools). This is a fantastic way to get a high-quality tool for much less.
What to Look for in a Cordless Drill (Beyond the Price)
While getting a good deal is important, don’t sacrifice quality for price. Consider these factors:
Voltage (V): Higher voltage generally means more power. 12V drills are compact and good for light-duty tasks. 18V (or 20V MAX, which is the same system marketed differently) is the most common and versatile for DIYers. 24V and higher are for heavy-duty professional use.
Battery System: If you plan on buying more cordless tools, stick with a single battery platform (e.g., all DeWalt 20V, all Ryobi ONE+, all Milwaukee M18). This way, batteries and chargers are interchangeable, saving you money in the long run.
Features:
Brushless Motor: More efficient, powerful, and longer-lasting than brushed motors. Often found on higher-end models.
Chuck Type: Keyless chucks are standard and allow for quick bit changes.
Torque Settings: Variable torque helps prevent over-tightening screws.
Speed Settings: Typically two speeds (low for high torque, high for high speed drilling).
LED Light: Essential for working in dimly lit areas.
Ergonomics: How comfortable the drill feels in your hand.
Frequently Asked Questions About Finding Cordless Drill Deals
Q1: When is the best time of year to buy a cordless drill on sale?
The absolute best time to find deals on cordless drills is during Black Friday and Cyber Monday in late November. Other excellent times include major holiday weekends like Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Father’s Day, as well as seasonal clearance events in spring and fall.
Q2: Are refurbished cordless drills a good purchase?
Yes, refurbished cordless drills can be an excellent purchase. They are typically tools that were returned or had minor issues, then professionally inspected, repaired, and cleaned. They often come with a warranty and offer significant savings compared to buying new.
Q3: What’s the difference between a “bare tool” and a “kit”?
A “bare tool” is just the drill itself, without any batteries or a charger. A “kit” includes the drill, at least one battery, and a charger, often with a carrying case. Kits are better if you’re starting your tool collection, while bare tools are cost-effective if you already own batteries for that brand’s system.
Q4: Should I buy from a manufacturer’s website or a retailer?
Both have their advantages. Manufacturer websites often have exclusive deals, new releases, and direct access to promotions. Retailers like Home Depot or Lowe’s offer a wider selection, price matching, and the convenience of seeing tools in person. It’s often beneficial to compare prices between the two.
Q5: How can I find deals on high-end brands like Milwaukee or DeWalt?
For high-end brands, focus on major retailers like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and authorized online tool dealers. Keep an eye on their seasonal sales, look for bundle deals (e.g., buying a combo kit), and always check for available mail-in rebates. Manufacturer websites are also a good source for direct promotions.
Q6: Is it worth waiting for a specific sale event to buy a drill?
If you’re not in urgent need, waiting for a major sale event like Black Friday or a holiday weekend can often lead to substantial savings, sometimes 30-50% or more off the regular price. However, if you need a drill immediately, look for ongoing promotions or clearance items.
Q7: What should I do if I find a great deal online but live far from a physical store?
If you find a great deal online, take advantage of it! Most online retailers offer shipping, and many have free shipping options for orders over a certain amount. Compare the total cost (including shipping) with local options to ensure it’s truly the best deal. Also, check return policies for online purchases.
Conclusion: Happy Hunting!
Finding the best deals on cordless drills is an achievable goal with a bit of research and patience. By exploring major online retailers, manufacturer websites, specialized tool stores, and even warehouse clubs, you significantly increase your chances of finding a quality drill at a price that fits your budget. Remember to consider the timing of your purchase, understand the difference between kits and bare tools, and keep an eye out for those valuable rebates and promotions. With these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to find the perfect cordless drill for your next project. Happy hunting!
