Choosing the right battery-powered drill can feel like a daunting task with the sheer number of options available. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast tackling weekend projects or a professional contractor on a job site, the right tool makes all the difference. A good cordless drill offers the perfect blend of power, runtime, and portability, freeing you from outlets and extension cords.
This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting nine of the best models on the market. We’ve considered a range of needs, from compact single-drill kits for basic home use to powerful brushless combos for demanding professional work. Our goal is to help you find the ideal drill that delivers the performance and value you need for your specific applications.
The Best Battery-Powered Drills for Every Project
- DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
- DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit
- CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 1/2 inch
- AVID POWER 20V MAX Lithium Ion Cordless Drill Set
- CRAFTSMAN V20 MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Combo
- Makita XFD131 18V LXT Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Driver-Drill Kit
- Milwaukee Electric M18 Fuel 2-Tool Combo KIT
- DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Driver Kit
- RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver
DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
This DEWALT kit is a fantastic starting point for anyone needing reliable power for common tasks. Its compact and lightweight design is a significant advantage, allowing you to maneuver into tight spaces like under-sink cabinets or between studs with ease. The high-performance motor delivers 300 unit watts out (UWO), providing ample strength for a wide variety of drilling and fastening applications around the home or workshop.
The two-speed transmission offers versatility, with a low-speed setting (0-450 RPM) for high-torque driving and a high-speed setting (0-1,500 RPM) for faster drilling. Coming with two batteries and a charger, this kit ensures you always have a fresh power source ready to go, minimizing downtime during your projects.
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit
For those who regularly switch between drilling pilot holes and driving screws, this DEWALT combo kit is an efficient solution. It pairs the same capable DCD771 drill from the previous kit with a compact impact driver. The impact driver is specifically designed for driving screws and lag bolts with more force and less physical strain on your wrist, thanks to its concussive action.
This two-tool set covers the vast majority of fastening and drilling jobs you’ll encounter. Sharing two batteries and a charger between the two tools makes this kit an excellent value, providing a complete ready-to-work system for serious DIYers and professionals alike.
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 1/2 inch
The CRAFTSMAN V20 drill kit offers a great balance of performance and affordability for the casual user. Its motor produces 280 unit watts out, which is sufficient for most household tasks like assembling furniture, hanging shelves, and light woodworking. The 1/2-inch keyless chuck is a robust feature that securely holds a wide range of drill bits and driver accessories.
With a two-speed gearbox (0-350 and 0-1,500 RPM), you can select the appropriate pace for the material you’re working with. This single-kit configuration, including a battery and charger, is a solid, no-fuss option for anyone building their initial tool collection.
AVID POWER 20V MAX Lithium Ion Cordless Drill Set
This AVID POWER set stands out as an exceptional value, especially for those on a tight budget or needing a comprehensive starter kit. It includes not only the drill, battery, and charger but also a 22-piece set of drill bits, meaning you can start your project as soon as you open the box. The real-time battery level display is a convenient feature that helps you plan your work and avoid unexpected power loss.
The drill offers 15+1 clutch settings and a variable speed trigger (0-550 RPM) for precise control when driving screws into different materials. It’s important to note that this drill is intended for light to medium-duty tasks in wood, plastic, and metal, and is not designed for concrete or masonry.
CRAFTSMAN V20 MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Combo
This CRAFTSMAN V20 MAX combo kit is a step up, providing a drill and a high-torque impact driver for more demanding projects. The drill delivers 280 UWO for effective drilling, while the impact driver generates an impressive 1,460 in-lbs of torque, making it capable of handling heavy-duty fastening jobs like building a deck or assembling large furniture.
Like other combo kits, the ability to share two batteries between the tools significantly enhances productivity. This set is a strong contender for users who need more driving power than a standard drill can provide but still want the reliability of a well-known brand.
Makita XFD131 18V LXT Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Driver-Drill Kit
The Makita XFD131 incorporates advanced brushless motor technology, which offers superior efficiency and longer tool life. The brushless motor electronically manages power consumption, which can extend battery run time by up to 50% compared to brushed models. This makes it an excellent choice for professionals who need all-day performance.
With a high-speed transmission (0-500 and 0-1,900 RPM) and 440 in-lbs of max torque, this drill has the power and speed for more challenging applications. It represents a professional-grade tool built for durability and sustained performance on the job site.
Milwaukee Electric M18 Fuel 2-Tool Combo KIT
At the top tier of performance, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL combo kit is engineered for maximum productivity. Both the hammer drill and impact driver feature brushless motors that are designed to deliver exceptional power and runtime. The hammer drill is capable of completing the widest range of applications, including light masonry work.
The impact driver is noted for its incredibly fast driving speed without sacrificing control, allowing you to work more efficiently. This kit is a premium choice for tradespeople and serious enthusiasts who demand the best performance and reliability from their tools.
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Driver Kit
DEWALT’s 20V MAX platform offers a wide range of drill and driver kits to suit various needs and budgets. These tools are known for their robust construction and consistent performance, making them a favorite among professionals. The ecosystem also allows you to share batteries with dozens of other DEWALT 20V MAX tools, which is a major long-term benefit.
Whether you need a basic model for simple tasks or a more advanced version with a hammer drill function, there is likely a DEWALT kit that fits your requirements. Exploring the different options within this line can help you find the perfect match for your specific projects.
RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver
The RYOBI ONE+ system is renowned for its extensive and affordable lineup of tools that all use the same 18V battery platform. This drill/driver is a core component of that system, offering reliable performance for home and garden projects. The value proposition is strong, especially if you plan to expand your tool collection over time.
With a 1/2-inch chuck and variable speed control, it handles common DIY jobs effectively. For homeowners who envision owning multiple cordless tools like leaf blowers, lights, or saws, investing in the RYOBI ONE+ ecosystem can be a very cost-effective strategy.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in the 9 Best Battery Powered Drills for Home and Pro Use
Picking the right battery powered drill can feel overwhelming with all the options out there. I have used a lot of them over the years, and the best choice really comes down to what you plan to do with it. Let us break down the key things to consider so you can find the perfect tool for your projects.
First, think about power, which is measured in volts (V). For light-duty tasks around the house like assembling furniture or hanging pictures, a 12V drill is usually plenty. It is lighter and easier to handle. If you are taking on bigger jobs, like building a deck or driving larger screws, you will want to step up to an 18V or 20V Max model. These are the workhorses for both serious DIYers and professionals. For the most demanding jobs, like mixing mortar or drilling into concrete regularly, you might even look at 36V or 40V tools.
Next, consider the battery itself. Most modern drills use Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries because they are lightweight, charge fast, and do not have a “memory effect.” Pay attention to the Amp-hour (Ah) rating. A higher Ah number means the battery will last longer on a single charge. For example, a 2.0Ah battery is fine for small tasks, but if you are drilling all day, a 5.0Ah or 6.0Ah battery is a much better fit.
Another critical feature is the chuck, the part that holds the drill bit. A keyless chuck is a huge convenience, allowing you to tighten and change bits by hand. Look for a 1/2-inch chuck as it is the standard for handling a wide range of bit sizes and is more secure for heavy-duty work. Some cheaper models have a 3/8-inch chuck, which can be limiting.
Do not forget about the clutch. This is the numbered collar just behind the chuck. It adjusts the torque, which helps you stop before you over-tighten a screw and strip the head or damage your material. More clutch settings give you finer control. Finally, think about the physical feel. Is it comfortable in your hand? Is it well-balanced? A lighter drill is less tiring to use for long periods. If you are a professional, you will also want to think about what other tools you might get in the future and consider sticking with a single battery platform to save money and space.
FAQ
What is the difference between a drill driver and a hammer drill?
A standard drill driver is what most people need for everyday tasks. It spins to drill holes and drive screws. A hammer drill has an additional forward-and-back hammering action (like a tiny jackhammer) that helps it power through masonry materials like brick, concrete, and stone. Many combo kits offer a drill that has a “hammer drill” mode, giving you the best of both worlds.
How long do the batteries typically last?
This depends heavily on the battery’s Amp-hour (Ah) rating and what you are doing. A smaller 1.5Ah battery might last for 100-200 screws, while a large 5.0Ah battery could handle 500 or more. For continuous, heavy use, a pro might drain a battery in under an hour, but for typical home use, a single charge can last for many small projects spread over several weeks or even months.
Is it worth investing in a brushless motor?
For a casual user, a brushed motor drill is often perfectly fine and more affordable. However, if you use your drill frequently or for demanding work, a brushless motor is a smart investment. It is more efficient, which means longer run time from the same battery, more power, and a longer overall tool life because there are no physical brushes to wear out.
Can I use my old batteries on a new drill from the same brand?
Often, yes, but you must check the compatibility. Most major brands design their battery platforms to work across multiple tools within the same voltage class. So, an 18V battery from a five-year-old drill might work perfectly on a new 18V drill from the same manufacturer. However, there can be exceptions with newer, more advanced battery designs, so it is always best to confirm before you buy.
What is a good all-around choice for a first-time buyer?
For someone looking for one drill that can handle almost anything a homeowner throws at it, I recommend starting with an 18V or 20V Max drill driver from a reputable brand. It offers the best balance of power, weight, and runtime. A combo kit that includes a second tool, like an impact driver, and two batteries is often an excellent value and covers the vast majority of your drilling and fastening needs for the 9 best battery powered drills for home and pro use categories.