Deciding on which power tools to purchase isn’t easy. Do you look for price or performance? Fortunately, you don’t have to sacrifice either. We’ve collected data since 2015 from 10 of the most trusted resources online, compared performance, cost, user-friendliness, and popularity to give you the top 11 cordless drills.
Whether you’re building the next skyscraper or installing a new shelf at home, your tool box isn’t complete without a cordless drill. These handheld powerhouses make quick work of jobs big and small by utilizing rapid rotations to bore holes and attach wood and metal pieces. Cordless drills offer the convenience of portability, so you aren’t limited to working indoors or near a power source. Typically available in two battery types, NiCad and Li-ion, cordless drills are the most used power tool in home and workplaces across America.
Check out these top products:
1. Porter-Cable 20-volt Max 1/2-inch lithium-ion drill-driver kit
Price: 132.99
A light tool for hefty jobs, the Porter-Cable 20-Volt Max drill and driver kit drives into the hardest materials with ease with 330 watts of power. A metal ratcheting chuck keeps bits in place so you can focus on the job at hand. LED lights ensure a well-lit work surface, even in the darkest spaces. Its compact 7 ¾-inch length, 3.5-pound design makes the Porter-Cable perfect for continued use. A second battery (included in the kit) means you can keep working from morning until night. Porter-Cable has been making tools for the trade since 1906 and remains one of the most trusted name among woodworkers across the globe.
Top Product Features
- 330 watt high-performance motor
- Built-in battery gauge
- 2 x 20v, 1.5 amp/hour Li-ion batteries + charger included
- 2-speed (0-400, 0-1,600) gear box
Product Reviews
- "At a mere 3.5 pounds in weight and just over 7 inches in length, this drill greatly reduces user fatigue. With a 20V battery, the Porter-Cable can last a long time between charges and boasts of a quick charge time for depleted batteries." – ResearchCore.org
- "While it's not in our top 3 products the Porter-Cable is still a solid drill. It lacks a brushless motor and hammer drill functionality but it is well built, and offers enough power for most DIY projects. If you're looking for a budget cordless drill this is a great place to start." – TheToolReport.com
- "The Porter Cable is a powerful cordless drill that delivers 370 MWO while only weighing in at 3.3 lbs. It peaks at 1,800 revolutions per minute and has 50% more battery life than the generation before." -- ThoroughlyReviewed.com
2. Hitachi 18-Volt Li-ion 1/2-Inch Cordless Drill/Driver
Price: 109
The Hitachi 18-Volt Li-ion 1/2-Inch Cordless Drill/Driver is covered for life by Hitachi’s comprehensive warranty. It provides 460 pounds of torque, 22 drive settings, and a variable two-speed motor, making this one of the most versatile tools on the list. Its fast-changing keyless chuck minimized delay between projects while the included LED job light showers you in illumination so you can work even when the power is out. Weighing in at just 3.5 pounds, the Hitachi was designed for all-day use. A metal belt hook keeps this handy tool within reach at all times. Hitachi’s history of innovation started with coal mining equipment back in 1948; this Japanese company continues to make some of the world’s most durable tools.
Top Product Features
- 1.5 Ah li-ion battery delivers consistent power
- Bonus adjustable work light
- 10-year product warranty
- Up to 1500 RPM speed
Product Reviews
- "With 460 pounds/inch torque, this Hitachi drill has an average amount of power and reaches speeds of up 1,800 RPM. However, it also comes with features such as variable speed and a light for jobs that require illumination. This drill weighs less than four pounds and has a robust 18V battery." – ResearchCore.org
- "The Hitachi 18-Volt Compact Pro Driver Drill offers amazing power, 460 in/lbs of torque. Couple that with a 22-setting variable clutch. It weighs 3.5 pounds with the battery inserted, and the balance is excellent, allowing you to work comfortably for long periods of time." – BestReviews.com
- "Experts and owner say the Hitachi DS18DSAL is the cordless drill to beat, praising its range of features, versatility, and power. This 18-volt model is available with either a brushed motor or a slightly pricier, more efficient brushless motor." – TheSpruce.com
3. Black + Decker 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver
Price: 47.89
If your priority is to get the job done without stripping screws, the Black + Decker LDX120C is the tool for you. With up to 650 rpm and 115 in-lbs torque, this Li-ion powered cordless drill is ideal for DIY jobs dealing with wood, metal, or plastic. Part of the 20v Max line of Black + Decker products, this drill and driver provides years of use in a compact and lightweight power tool. LED light allows for precision in unlit areas while the 11-position clutch means you are always in control. Black + Decker filed the first patent for a portable drill back in 1916 and has remained a leader in the world of handheld power tools since.
Top Product Features
- Li-ion battery; holds charge for up to 18 months
- Built-in LED work light
- 11-position clutch
- Variable speed
Product Reviews
- "At 412 pounds/inch of torque and speeds up to 1,500 RPM, this Black and Decker drill offers sufficient power for most jobs. The 20V battery ensures long use and holds charge for up to 18 months. At 6 pounds, it also checks in at average weight compared to similar drills." – ResearchCore.org
- "The Black & Decker LBXR20 20 Volt MAX Extended Run Time Lithium Battery is compatible with the 20-Volt MAX line of power and gardening tools. These batteries have been formulated for longer runtime and improved performance. This battery is compatible with other B+D cordless tool models." -- ThoroughlyReviewed.com
4. Makita XFD10R 18V Lithium Ion 1/2 Inch Compact Cordless Driver-Drill Kit
Price: 169
The Makita XFD10R 18V Lithium Ion ½-inch Compact Cordless Driver-Drill Kit comes complete with a 2.0 amp charger, battery, and belt clip. The drill’s powerful motor is encased in high-quality hard shell body that’s enhanced by an ergonomic rubberized grip for lasting comfort. Increased dust and water resistance provided by Makita’s exclusive Extreme Protection Technology means you can take this drill into harsh conditions without fear of excessive wear and tear. Manufactured by Makita, a global brand with more than a century of experience making quality-driven products for professional-grade performance.
Top Product Features
- 2-speed transmission for up to 1,900 RPM
- 480 in/lbs torque
- Soft handle for superior comfort and grip
- 4-pole motor
Product Reviews
- "This tool earned an A+ in our user experience survey, and it also performed well in our battery life test, earning a B+. Even though it only weighs 3.3 pounds, it creates an adequate 480 inch-pounds of torque." – TopTenReviews.com
5. Black + Decker GCO1200C 12-Volt Cordless Drill
Price: 35
The Black + Decker GCO1200C 12-Volt Cordless Drill is a must for homeowners who prefer to make repair tasks a DIY experience. Featuring a keyless chuck, this 12-volt cordless drill is as easy to handle as it is to prep. Stripped screws are a thing of the past with a 24-position, ⅜-inch clutch, which guarantees the right speed for every use. Black + Decker has upgraded this innovative drill and driver combo with a soft comfort grip and slide pack battery. Black + Decker tools can be found in homes across the country where reliability is a must.
Top Product Features
- Variable speed plus reverse setting
- 2-year limited warranty
- Comfort grips to reduce user fatigue
- 12-volt rechargeable power supply
Product Reviews
- "If you don’t need a super-powerful cordless drill – just something to make quick work of furniture assembly and other household tasks – there’s no need to overspend. Top speed is 750 RPM, and reviewer say that’s more than enough for their needs." – TheSpruce.com
6. Bosch PS31-2A 12-Volt Max Lithium-Ion 2-Speed Drill/Driver Kit
Price: 99
When professionals reach for a tool, they want it to be intuitive. The Bosch PS31-2A 12-Volt Max Lithium-Ion 2-Speed drill is exactly that and weighs in just past the two pound mark. Boasting a powerful integrated LED light, it’s the perfect drill for overhead work, especially in dark corners. One of top choices of electricians, this two-speed drill and driver set powers through even dense boards with a rotational force of 265 in-lbs. Featuring a theft-deterring, lockable case, this shockproof and water-resistant tool stays by your side when things get tough. Bosch Tools has been proving its name to pros for more than 130 years and sets the pace for industry innovation.
Top Product Features
- 20+1 clutch allows for precision
- ⅜-inch diameter three-jaw chuck
- 265 in-lbs. torque
- 7-inch head
Product Reviews
- "This entire drill with the battery is by far one of the lightest drills you’ll ever handle, at just 2.14 lbs. Compact in length at just 7 inches, it fits in the hand perfectly and fits in practically any tight space. Its battery level indicator is onboard showing you exactly how much juice your current pack has remaining." – MyCarNeedsThis.com
- "If you want a cordless drill that packs as much power as possible into a small package, check out the Bosch PS31-2A. Like the Black + Decker, this is a 12-volt model, but it’s speedier (high speed is 1,300 RPM) and more powerful, with 265 inch-pounds of torque." – TheSpruce.com
7. Bosch DDS181-02 18-Volt Lithium-Ion 1/2-Inch Compact Tough Drill/Driver Kit
Price: 144.55
When you need power, you need the Bosch DDS181-02 18-Volt Lithium-Ion 1/2-Inch Compact Tough Drill/Driver Kit. It’s a commanding addition to your tool box that’s always ready for materials from metal to wood. Interchangeable bits and a 4-pole motor make this a high-impact tool to impress even the pickiest foreman. Kit includes two high-capacity, rechargeable Slim Pack batteries so you can begin working before the sun comes up and finish with the same speed well past dinner. Bosch doesn’t engineer tools for limited use; this is a drill built to withstand a hard life and years of use.
Top Product Features
- 18-volt Li-ion slide battery
- Ergonomic grip for all day comfort
- 4-pole, open frame motor
- Flexible Power System; choose your efficiency
Product Reviews
- "The Bosch DDS181-02 is compact and lightweight with an 18-volt battery that provides plenty of power for heavy jobs and around the house projects. With a Durashield housing that guards against it wearing out, you will 35% more runtime and two times the recharge cycle of similar style models." – ThoroughlyReviewed.com
8. DeWalt DC970K-2 cordless drill
Price: 79.99
The DeWalt DC970K-2 cordless drill runs at speeds of up to 1,500 rpm and operates using a force-focused 380 unit watts motor. At 4.7 pounds, this heavy duty workhorse is preferred by professional contractors, electricians, and serious DIY-ers and is ideal for all-day use. DeWalt’s 18-volt drill and driver kit can do everything you need to get the job done, no matter what it is. From boring holes to mounting hardware, this duel-speed drill does it. DeWalt tools are made in America and backed by the US manufacturer’s century-long reputation for crafting durable tools for a demanding workforce.
Top Product Features
- Compact size for use in tight situations
- 380 unit watts out motor
- Anti-fatigue design
- Compatible with hundreds of DeWalt bits and accessories
Product Reviews
- "DeWalt’s 18-volt drill-driver kit maximizes performance while minimizing user fatigue. Its high-output motor (380 unit watts out) and dual-speed capability (0-450/0-1,500 RPM) maximizes efficiency for drilling and fastening applications, while its 9-inch length and 5.2-pound weight make it ideal." -- ConsumerReports.org
- "Not only is the DEWALT DC970K-2 found in the top three on a lot of review sites, it’s also a number one bestseller on Amazon too with over 1,500 customer reviews. This 18-volt drill packs a lot of punch for its size." – ThoroughlyReviewed.com
9. Rockwell 20V Cordless Drill
Price: 100
One of the most powerful drills out there, the Rockwell 20-volt features a brushless motor for up to 50% increased runtime. With up to 2000 rpm and 531 in-lbs. torque, this lightweight (just 3.41 lbs) professional series drill can bore through half-inch solid steel. Rockwell has included a computerized power distribution control, which minimizes discharge and improves overall durability by reducing heat and friction. For men and women who rely on their drill’s ability to provide consistent performance, Rockwell’s 20 year tool and battery warranty means you can use it every day and pass it on to the next generation of tradesmen. Rockwell tools are an American tradition and, like you, they never quit.
Top Product Features
- Brushless motor offers 50% longer runtime, 25% more power
- 20-year warranty includes free batteries
- Computer controlled
- 2000 max rpm
Product Reviews
- "This Rockwell drill also features a brushless motor that increases time between charges of its long-lasting 20V battery. This drill features a built in light, 531 lbs. of torque, and speed up to 2,000 RPM, all within a seven-pound drill. A great feature of a Rockwell drill is the battery for life program." – ResearchCore.org
10. DeWalt 20V MAX XR Li-Ion 0.5″ 2.0Ah Brushless Compact Drill/Driver Kit
Price: 199
Lightweight and compact, the DeWalt 20 Volt Max XR drill and driver combination tool is a customizable solution for home and work. Its comfortable handle makes this 3.4-pound drill easy to handle and provides the perfect balance for working in confined spaces. A timed work light, belt hook, and extra XR Li-ion extended-life battery are included in the kit. Speeds of up to 2000 rpm allow this drill to bore through wood or metal with ease. DeWalt drills are made in the US of the finest domestic and imported parts available and come with an industry-leading 90 day money back guarantee.
Top Product Features
- ½-inch ratcheting chuck
- LED light with three modes; 20x brighter than previous models
- High performance brushless motor
- Ergonomic handle with comfort grip
