When it comes to power tools, nothing beats the convenience and performance of the best cordless electric drill. These versatile tools let you work anywhere—without worrying about tangled cords or limited outlets. But here’s the thing: not all cordless drills are created equal.
If you’re looking for all-around performance, check out our picks for the best cordless drill that deliver reliable torque for DIY and professional use alike. Need more muscle? We’ve tested models that qualify as the best high power cordless drill options for demanding tasks. And if you’re comparing prices and availability, don’t miss our analysis of the best cordless drills Home Depot currently offers.
Ready to find out which drill gives you the best mix of power, speed, and battery life? Let’s dig in.
Our Top Picks
Best Compact Power: DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver Set
The DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver Set (DCD777D1) combines impressive power with an ultra-compact form, making it ideal for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Its brushless motor delivers longer run time and improved efficiency compared to brushed models, while the 2-speed transmission offers flexibility for drilling and fastening applications. The drill’s lightweight design (just 7.6 inches front to back) allows users to work comfortably in tight or overhead spaces. An ergonomic handle enhances grip and balance, and the built-in LED with a 20-second delay provides useful illumination in dim environments.
From a customer’s perspective, the DCD777D1 stands out for its reliable performance, smooth trigger control, and minimal vibration during prolonged use. Users appreciate its compactness and battery life but wish it came with a second battery or hard case for added convenience.
Overall, the DEWALT 20V MAX Drill Driver offers excellent value for its performance range—efficient, balanced, and built to handle a variety of everyday drilling and driving tasks with professional-grade dependability.
Best DIY Starter Kit: FADAKWALT Cordless Drill Set
The FADAKWALT Cordless Drill Set (20V) is a practical and affordable option for home users who need a reliable, all-in-one drilling and driving solution. Equipped with a 20V lithium-ion battery and delivering up to 30 N·m of torque, this drill is suitable for light- to medium-duty projects such as furniture assembly, hanging shelves, or basic home repairs. Its 21+1 torque settings allow for precise control, preventing overdriving or stripping screws, while the 3/8-inch keyless chuck enables quick bit changes. With a maximum speed of 650 RPM, it’s optimized more for precision than raw speed. The inclusion of a flexible shaft, multiple drill bits, and screw anchors makes it ready to use right out of the box.
From a user perspective, this model earns praise for being compact, easy to handle, and ideal for beginners or casual DIYers. The torque and battery life are sufficient for household tasks, though not suited for heavy-duty applications or long drilling sessions in dense materials.
Overall, the FADAKWALT 20V Cordless Drill offers solid value for money, especially as a complete starter kit. It’s a dependable choice for everyday household projects, emphasizing convenience and control over high-end performance.
Best Compact Home Drill: FADAKWALT Cordless Drill Set
The FADAKWALT 12V Cordless Drill Set is designed for homeowners seeking a compact, easy-to-use drill for everyday projects. Delivering up to 180 in-lbs (19 N·m) of torque and a maximum speed of 650 RPM, it provides enough power for light drilling and screw-driving in wood, plastic, or thin metal. The 21+1 clutch settings allow for precise torque control, helping prevent overdriving screws or damaging materials. Its 3/8-inch keyless chuck makes bit changes quick and simple, while the LED light and electric brake add convenience and accuracy during use.
From a user standpoint, this drill is appreciated for its lightweight design, comfortable grip, and balanced handling—making it ideal for one-handed operation or prolonged use without fatigue. While it’s not meant for heavy-duty work, users find it dependable for household fixes, furniture assembly, and other routine DIY tasks.
Overall, the FADAKWALT 12V Cordless Drill Set offers impressive versatility and comfort in a small package. It’s a smart, budget-friendly choice for casual users who prioritize control, ease of use, and value over brute strength.
FAQs
What is better, an 18V or 20V drill?
The difference between 18V and 20V drills often comes down to marketing. In reality, both use the same battery cells—nominally 18 volts, but they can reach up to 20 volts when fully charged. Most manufacturers in the U.S., like DeWalt, label their tools as 20V MAX, while brands like Makita use 18V. Functionally, there’s little performance difference. What matters more is the amp-hour (Ah) rating, which affects battery runtime. So, rather than focusing solely on voltage, consider the drill’s torque, speed, and battery efficiency.
Are DeWalt or Makita drills better?
Both DeWalt and Makita produce excellent cordless drills, but they cater to slightly different needs. DeWalt tools are known for their rugged durability, ergonomic grip, and high torque output—making them ideal for professionals and heavy users. Makita, on the other hand, focuses on balance and precision. Their drills are typically lighter and quieter, which appeals to users who value control and comfort during long tasks. If you prioritize raw power, go with DeWalt. For refined handling and advanced technology, Makita is hard to beat.
Which is better, a 12V or 18V cordless drill?
A 12V drill is perfect for light to medium-duty jobs like furniture assembly, hanging shelves, or drilling into softwood. It’s compact, lightweight, and great for household use. However, if you frequently work with dense materials like hardwood or metal, an 18V drill offers more torque and faster drilling speed. In short, 12V equals portability and convenience, while 18V equals strength and endurance. Many users keep both—a 12V for quick tasks and an 18V for tougher jobs.
What is the best brand of cordless power tool?
The best brand depends on your priorities. DeWalt excels in power and reliability, Makita leads in precision and battery technology, and Milwaukee dominates in innovation and durability. Bosch and Ryobi offer excellent value for casual users. For professionals, DeWalt and Milwaukee often take the top spots due to their extensive tool ecosystems and rugged build quality. For DIYers, Makita and Ryobi provide great balance between performance and cost.
Conclusion
Choosing the best cordless electric drill comes down to how and where you plan to use it. An 18V or 20V model from DeWalt or Makita delivers enough power for nearly any project, while compact 12V drills are ideal for quick jobs around the house. Remember, the right drill isn’t just about voltage—it’s about comfort, torque, and battery endurance. Take your time to match your needs with the right features, and you’ll have a reliable tool that lasts for years.
