The 7 Best Cordless Drills

Embarking on DIY backyard projects has never been more effortless, thanks to the remarkable capabilities of a cordless drill. Whether your aspirations involve constructing a picturesque deck, erecting a spacious shed, or assembling a delightful playset for your children, the inclusion of a cordless drill in your toolkit promises to be a game-changer.

With its unrivaled ability to streamline tasks and minimize exertion, this indispensable tool ensures you can accomplish more in less time. However, navigating the vast array of available models can prove daunting. Fear not, for this comprehensive guide unveils the crème de la crème of cordless drills. From wallet-friendly options that deliver exceptional value to high-performance powerhouses engineered to conquer commercial-grade projects, this selection offers unparalleled versatility and uncompromising quality to cater to your specific needs. Prepare to revolutionize your backyard endeavors with the perfect cordless drill at your side.

Why Buy a Cordless Drill?

With its ability to swiftly and effectively drill holes of precise sizes, a cordless drill becomes an indispensable ally in your projects. Furthermore, by effortlessly replacing the drill bit with a screwdriver bit, it seamlessly transitions into a versatile driver, allowing you to tackle a wide range of tasks with remarkable speed and efficiency while minimizing the risk of potential injuries associated with manual tools. Embrace the freedom of movement granted by a cordless drill, liberating you from the constraints of cords and enabling you to navigate every nook and cranny of your backyard or any room in your abode. Invest in a cordless drill and unlock a world of possibilities for your DIY endeavors.

The 7 Best Cordless Drills

The selection of these premier cordless drills was based on their extraordinary performance, user-friendly design, and an array of convenient features that will empower you to tackle your DIY projects with the finesse of a professional.

DeWalt DCD791D2 20V Max XR Cordless Drill

• Dimensions: 10.6 x 4.5 x 16.2 inches
• Weight: 3.5 lbs
• Warranty: 3 years

The DeWalt 20V Max XR is renowned for its multitude of five-star ratings, and for good reason. This compact and lightweight battery-powered cordless drill effortlessly tackles tasks in confined spaces and excels in prolonged overhead drilling and driving. Don’t let its size deceive you, as it boasts impressive power that effortlessly penetrates wood, metal, and even masonry. With two speed settings allowing for up to 2,000 RPM, and 16 clutch settings offering unrivaled control and adaptability, this drill is a true game-changer.

Equipped with two long-lasting 20-volt lithium-ion batteries, the DeWalt 20V Max XR ensures hours of uninterrupted productivity on your average project. The batteries swiftly recharge in the accompanying charger, featuring convenient indicator lights that signal when they’re ready for action. The brushless motor not only reduces noise but also enhances durability for a longer lifespan. Additionally, the ½-inch chuck securely holds bits in place, facilitating effortless swapping for different tasks.

Comfort and convenience were key considerations for DeWalt, as evidenced by the ergonomic handle that minimizes fatigue during prolonged use. The three-mode LED lighting is another notable feature, with the 20-minute spotlight mode allowing you to illuminate surfaces and your work site in low lighting without constantly activating the trigger. To top it off, the drill comes complete with a durable carrying case that accommodates the drill, batteries, charger, and bits, ensuring easy portability and storage.

Pros:

• Lightweight and compact
• Can reach speeds up to 2,000 RPM
• 16 clutch settings 
• Three-mode LED lighting
• Long warranty

Cons:

• Chuck can be a bit finicky when changing drill bits

Bosch PS31-2A 12-Volt Max Cordless Drill

• Dimensions: 7 x 2.5 x 7 inches
• Weight: 1.8 lbs
• Warranty: 1 year

Weighing in at a mere 1.8 pounds, the Bosch PS31-2A cordless drill is the epitome of portability, effortlessly accompanying you to even the most confined spaces. Don’t be deceived by its compact size, as this drill delivers an impressive amount of power. With a maximum torque of 265 inches to pounds and two speed settings ranging from 350 RPM to 1,300 RPM, it effortlessly handles light screwdriving tasks and heavy-duty drilling through wood and metal.

Powered by two 12-volt lithium-ion batteries, the Bosch PS31-2A provides hours of uninterrupted operation, depending on the intensity of your project. When the batteries eventually run out, simply place them in the charger, and they’ll be fully replenished in less than an hour. The ⅜-inch three-jaw chuck securely holds the bits in place, while the 20 clutch settings enable precise adjustments for drilling holes and driving screws.

Noteworthy features include a soft handle grip for enhanced comfort, a side-mounted battery gauge for convenient power monitoring during work, and an LED light that illuminates dimly lit workspaces. The Durashield housing is an added bonus, rendering the drill remarkably resilient. In fact, rigorous testing has shown it can endure repeated drops from heights of up to 12 feet. The drill is also accompanied by two screwdriver bits and a carrying bag capable of housing the drill, bits, and charger.

Pros:

• Lightweight and compact
• Max torque of 265 in-lbs
• 20 clutch settings
• Long battery life

Cons:

• Batteries can be difficult to remove
• Lower RPM than some other cordless drills

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18-Volt Cordless Drill 

• Dimensions: 5 x 9 x 11 inches
• Weight: 3.2 lbs
• Warranty: 5 years

Unyielding, robust, and exceptionally powerful, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL cordless drill stands as a formidable companion for any backyard endeavor. Revered by professional contractors for its unwavering strength and reliability, it boasts an astounding maximum torque of 1,200 inches to pounds and achieves speeds up to 2,000 RPM. Whether you find yourself drilling through concrete or tightening screws, this indomitable drill is up to the task.

Equipped with lithium-ion batteries, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL drill endures hours of rigorous work and swiftly recharges within approximately one hour. Embedded with Redlink Plus technology, it ensures superior energy efficiency and safeguards against motor and battery overload by monitoring temperature levels. Furthermore, the brushless motor preserves the drill’s longevity and optimizes its performance.

Effortlessly conquering drilling and driving tasks, the drill’s compact size and lightweight design promote ease of use. Convenient features like a removable and interchangeable belt clip and bit holder enhance versatility. The integrated LED light positioned at the drill’s foot illuminates dimly lit spaces, granting enhanced visibility for precise drilling and driving. Moreover, the two speed settings enable power adjustments to suit the specific demands of your project.

Pros:

• Powerful
• Lightweight and compact
• Max torque of 1,200 in-lbs
• Can reach speeds of 2,000 RPM
• Comes with a belt clip and bit holder

Cons:

• Trigger can stick 

Ryobi P1813 ONE+ Hammer Cordless Drill

• Dimensions: 81 x 3.3 x 8 inches
• Weight: 3.15 lbs
• Warranty: 3 years

The Ryobi P1813 presents itself as a comprehensive kit, offering a formidable hammer drill accompanied by a 4.0Ah battery, a dual-chemistry charger, an auxiliary handle, a belt clip, and a convenient tool bag. Distinguished by its clutch override feature, this drill offers three distinct modes: drilling for creating holes, driving for fastening screws and bolts, and hammering for tackling cement and masonry. Boasting an impressive maximum torque of 750 inches to pounds, it effortlessly conquers a wide array of tasks.

The 18-volt battery, with its remarkable 4.0Ah capacity, provides substantial runtime, surpassing the standard 1.3Ah or 1.5Ah batteries found in most cordless drills. This ample power supply allows for the completion of extensive projects in a single session. Additionally, the brushless motor not only enhances runtime but also bestows the tool with an extended lifespan compared to brush motors that are prone to wear. Moreover, the battery and charger are compatible with other tools from the Ryobi 18V ONE+ line, further expanding their utility.

Notable features of the Ryobi P1813 include a magnetic bit holder located at the base of the drill, ensuring easy access to bits and screws while you work. The integrated LED light positioned at the base illuminates the work area, and it remains active for a few seconds after the trigger is released, providing enhanced precision. For added convenience, the belt clip allows you to keep the drill within reach as you navigate the work site, and it can be mounted on either side of the drill for optimal accessibility

Pros:

• 4.0Ah battery offers long run times
• Battery can be used with other Ryobi V18 ONE+ tools
• Three clutch modes for drilling, driving, and hammer drilling
• Magnetic bit holder to keep bits and screws on hand
• Belt clip can be mounted on either side of the drill

Cons:

• Slightly expensive

Black & Decker LDX120C 20V Max Cordless Drill

• Dimensions: 8.5 x 3.6 x 10.6 inches
• Weight: 3.9 lbs
• Warranty: 2 years

The Black & Decker LDX120C offers affordability without compromising on power and durability. With a maximum torque of 115 inches per pound and variable speed settings up to 650 RPM, it provides ample capability for household tasks and backyard projects. While not designed for heavy-duty applications, it remains a dependable choice for everyday use.

The 20-volt lithium-ion battery charges in approximately one hour using the included charger and retains its charge for up to 18 months, allowing for extended periods of storage without losing power. The battery is also compatible with various other Black & Decker cordless products, including power tools, lawn and garden equipment, and household cleaning tools.

With 11 clutch settings, you can customize the level of torque for different tasks, ensuring optimal control. Whether working with delicate screws or drilling through wood, metal, or hard plastic, you can adjust the settings accordingly. Additionally, the built-in LED light enhances visibility in dimly lit work areas, enabling precise drilling and driving operations.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Long battery life
• 11 clutch settings
• Battery is interchangeable with other Black & Decker products

Cons:

• Not as powerful as some other cordless drills

Makita XFD12 18-Volt Cordless Drill

• Dimensions: 7.5 x 3.6 x 9.5 inches
• Weight: 3.3 lbs
• Warranty: 3 years

Makita is renowned for producing top-quality backyard tools that offer exceptional performance and long-lasting durability. The Makita XFD12 stands out as a compact yet powerful cordless drill, featuring a brushless motor that delivers an impressive maximum torque of 530 inches per pound. With two speed settings ranging from 500 RPM to 2,000 RPM, this drill provides the versatility needed to handle delicate screw fastening tasks as well as drilling through tough materials like wood, plastic, and metal.

A key highlight of the Makita XFD12 is its brushless motor, which is electronically controlled to optimize energy output. By providing just the right amount of energy to match the required RPMs and torque, this intelligent motor prevents overheating of the batteries and extends their lifespan. This safeguards against battery burnout during extended work sessions and helps maintain the longevity of both the motor and batteries.

Designed for comfort and ease of use, the Makita XFD12 is compact enough to navigate confined spaces and features a soft rubber handle grip for a secure hold. The two built-in LED lights ensure excellent visibility even in low-light conditions, enhancing precision during your work. The charger is thoughtfully designed with a built-in fan, enabling faster battery cooling and charging. However, it’s important to note that the battery and charger are sold separately, allowing for customization based on individual needs.

Pros:

• Lightweight and compact 
• Max torque of 530 in-lbs
• Can reach speeds of 2,000 RPM
• Brushless motor technology optimizes energy output

Cons:

• Battery and charger are sold separately

Craftsman CMCD700C1 V20 Cordless Drill

• Dimensions: 9.37 x 2.87 x 8.35 inches
• Weight: 2.67 lbs
• Warranty: 3 years

With a featherlight weight of only 2.67 pounds, the Craftsman V20 sets itself apart as one of the most lightweight cordless drills available. Despite its compact size, this drill doesn’t compromise on power, offering the necessary strength to tackle your typical backyard tasks. Its two-speed settings range from 350 RPM to 1,500 RPM, providing versatility for various applications. Equipped with 23 clutch settings, you can effortlessly adjust the torque to accommodate both delicate screws and robust fasteners or hard materials. Swapping out bits for different jobs is a breeze thanks to the convenient ½-inch chuck.

The Craftsman V20 operates on a 20-volt lithium-ion battery, capable of quick charging within an hour or less. Furthermore, this battery is compatible with other Craftsman V20 tools, making it an ideal choice for those already invested in the brand’s cordless product line. The battery indicator located on the back of the drill keeps you informed of the remaining power as you work. While the battery may drain more rapidly during heavy-duty applications, it is more than sufficient for typical household tasks.

Designed with user comfort in mind, the rubber handle ensures a comfortable and secure grip, minimizing the risk of slips during operation. Positioned just below the drill head, the LED light provides precise illumination for accurate drilling and fastening. The light even remains on for a few seconds after releasing the trigger, allowing you to double-check your work with ease. Overall, the Craftsman V20 is an excellent cordless drill for medium to light backyard projects and DIY home improvements, offering convenience, versatility, and reliable performance.

Pros:

• Good value for the money
• Lightweight and compact
• Fast-charging battery
• Battery is interchangeable with other Craftsman V20 tools

Cons:

• Battery can drain quickly on heavy jobs

Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Cordless Drill

• Battery Life: The longevity of the battery is a crucial consideration when selecting a cordless drill. To avoid interruptions during important projects, it’s important to opt for a drill with a battery that can sustain long periods of use. While most cordless drills come with 1.3Ah or 1.5Ah batteries, investing in a higher ampere-hour (Ah) battery can provide extended performance for larger tasks. However, it’s important to note that higher-capacity batteries usually come with a higher price tag.
• Weight and Ergonomics: Comfort plays a significant role, especially for prolonged drilling sessions. Look for lightweight and compact drills that can be easily maneuvered in tight spaces or during overhead work without causing fatigue. Opt for models with ergonomic features like a soft rubber grip handle, which helps absorb vibrations and prevents discomfort or chafing. Additional convenient features such as belt hooks and bit holders can enhance efficiency by eliminating the need for constant holding or searching for extra equipment.
• Power: Assess the intended usage of the drill to determine the required power level. If the drill will primarily be used for occasional light-duty tasks like driving screws or drilling into light materials, a highly powerful drill designed for masonry applications may not be necessary. However, for heavy-duty projects, prioritize drills with high torque or Unit Watts Out (UWO). Torque measures the drill’s ability to exert force against resistance, while UWO combines speed and torque to indicate overall power. Manufacturers may list either torque or UWO as a measure of power. Voltage is another important consideration, with 20-volt batteries providing more power than 12-volt ones. Keep in mind that higher voltage batteries are generally heavier.
• Speed: Cordless drill speeds are measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), representing the chuck’s rotation speed. Faster speeds are suitable for lighter tasks as they provide less torque. Conversely, lower speeds offer greater torque for heavy-duty jobs. Variable speed drills with multiple speed settings allow for flexibility, enabling users to adjust the speed according to the specific task at hand.

Final Thoughts

Having a reliable cordless drill is essential for homeowners looking to tackle various DIY projects both indoors and in the backyard. With its versatility and convenience, a cordless drill can efficiently complete a wide range of tasks without the hassle of manual tools. In this comprehensive guide, we present standout models that excel in terms of dependability, durability, and performance. These drills have been carefully selected for their ability to handle diverse projects with ease and precision. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a beginner, these cordless drills will become indispensable tools in your arsenal, ensuring that every project is completed quickly and accurately.