The 6 Best Drills of 2025 | Reviews by Wirecutter

The DeWalt DCD701F2 Xtreme 12V Max Brushless 3/8 in. Drill/Driver Kit combines power, comfort, and convenience in a way that none of the other tested drills do. In our tests, it bored 30 1-inch holes through a 2-by-10 on a single battery charge, showing it can handle just about anything within the four walls of a home (and even the occasional foray into more aggressive work, like a small decking repair). Other drills we tested had similar power, but the DeWalt DCD701F2 really excels in ergonomics and convenience features. The molded handle seems to account for every curve and bulge of the hand, the battery is designed so that the drill can stand upright when not in use (other drills, like the runner-up Bosch PS31-2A 12V, need to be placed on their side), and the LED is positioned so that it illuminates the drill front better than most. In all our years of testing, we haven’t found a drill that’s as much a pleasure to use as this one.

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If the DeWalt DCD701F2 is overpriced or unavailable, we also like the Bosch PS31-2A 12V Max 3/8 in. Drill/Driver Kit. In our tests, this 12-volt Bosch couldn’t drill as many 1-inch holes on a single charge as our top pick, but it still has more than enough power for general home tasks. In our own measurements, we found it to be about 5 ounces lighter than the DeWalt DCD701F2, but it feels heavier because the balance isn’t as nice. The Bosch battery slides up into the handle, making the grip fatter and not as contoured as the DeWalt’s. Also, the LED doesn’t illuminate as well. Even with these drawbacks, we’ve been using (and recommending) this drill for years, and we’ve seen firsthand a long track record of reliability.

If you’re looking for a real workhorse of a drill, or if you have other tools in the Milwaukee 12-volt ecosystem, we like the Milwaukee -22 M12 Fuel 1/2 in. Drill/Driver. It’s pricey for a 12-volt tool, but when we tested it with the included 4.0 Ah high-capacity battery, it put up numbers that rivaled or exceeded many of those of the 18-volt drills we looked at. Its considerable power is emphasized by the fact that it comes with a 0.5-inch chuck (the nose of the drill, where the bits fit in), which is larger than what is found on a standard 12-volt drill. This allows the Milwaukee to accept larger drill bits. The downsides are that, like the Bosch PS31-2A 12V, the handle isn’t as comfortable as the DeWalt DCD701F2’s, and when using the lower-capacity battery, the tool can be placed only on its side when set down. We think most will be just fine with the capabilities and comfort of our top-pick DeWalt, but this Milwaukee can definitely get a lot of work done.

If you take on projects that have you drilling lots of holes and sinking long screws, we recommend stepping up to the Milwaukee -22CT M18 Compact Brushless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver Kit. This 18-volt drill shares the most important characteristics of our less powerful top pick: It’s extremely comfortable to hold and use, and the little convenience features, such as the belt hook and LED, are spot-on. It’s also extremely short—shorter than even any of the 12-volt tools we tested—so it fits into tighter spots. Compared with our 12-volt Milwaukee pick, this larger drill completes tougher jobs much faster, doing the same work in less than half the time with a battery that lasts a lot longer. We tested drills during a kitchen remodel and a few smaller house renovations, and this is the drill we reached for over all the others.

If the Milwaukee 18-volt drill is not available, or if you have other 20-volt DeWalt tools and batteries, we also like the 20-volt DeWalt DCD800E2 20V Max XR Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver Kit. It’s very similar to the 18-volt Milwaukee in power, ergonomics, and overall design. The DeWalt lasted a little longer in our battery test, and it has an LED that can also be switched on independently of the drill and slightly rotated, a unique feature that turns it into a rudimentary flashlight (which could come in handy in nearly any crawl space). The light is neat but not necessary, so we prefer the typically less expensive 18-volt Milwaukee, which is a little shorter and delivers roughly the same power and battery life.

When tackling DIY projects, a cordless drill is a must-have in your arsenal. Known for their flexibility and ease of use, cordless drills are perfect for a variety of tasks from assembling furniture to building decks.

Advancements in battery technology have significantly boosted the efficiency, power, and longevity of these drills, making them a top choice for both novices and seasoned professionals.

Understanding Cordless Drills

A cordless drill is a powerful tool designed to drill holes and drive screws. It’s equipped with a rechargeable battery, allowing you to work freely without the constraints of a power cord. From simple home repairs to complex constructions, cordless drills adapt to numerous environments and materials.

Types of Cordless Drills

Cordless drills vary mainly in power, size, and functionality:

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• Drill Drivers: Perfect for general drilling and screw driving, featuring adjustable torque settings to suit various materials.
• Rotary Hammer Drills: Ideal for drilling into brick, stone, or concrete, combining rotation with a hammering action.
• Impact Drivers: Best for driving screws and bolts, providing higher torque with less exertion and reducing wrist strain.

The FEIN 4-Speed Cordless Drill/Driver comes with 2 12-V batteries & a rapid charger.

Choosing the Right Cordless Drill

Selecting the perfect drill involves considering power, battery life, and the tasks at hand. Higher voltage batteries offer more power but can increase the weight of the drill, affecting handling and fatigue over time.

Factors to Consider

• Battery Power: Typically measured in volts, with higher voltages providing more drilling power.
• Weight: Lighter drills are more comfortable, especially for prolonged use.
• Adjustability: Look for drills with multiple speed settings and adjustable torque for greater versatility.

The Festool Cordless Drill T18+3 Set comes with 2 18-V batteries & rapid charger. If you don't need batteries, you can save money by purchasing the Festool Cordless Drill T18+3 Basic.

More Factors to Consider

• Chuck Size: The chuck size of a drill determines the range of drill bits it can accommodate, with larger chuck sizes allowing for the use of various drill bit types for different drilling applications and materials. Having a drill with the right chuck size is crucial for ensuring compatibility with a wide array of drill bits, ranging from standard twist bits to spade bits, hole saws, and even specialty bits like Forstner bits.
• Speed and Torque: These settings in a drill determine the rotation speed and twisting force applied. Higher speeds are often used for softer materials like wood, while lower speeds are preferred for tougher materials like metal or concrete. Adjusting the torque setting determines the amount of twisting force applied, influencing the drill's power and its ability to handle resistance.
• Ergonomics and Comfort: The design elements of a drill play a significant role in how comfortable and easy it is to operate. A well-thought-out handle that fits nicely in the user's hand can not only reduce strain on the hand and wrist but also enhance overall control and precision. Ergonomic considerations extend beyond just immediate comfort, as they can impact the user's ability to work efficiently over time.
• Additional Features: The Festool Cordless Drill CXS 12 2,5-Set comes with 2 12-V batteries, and features like a built-in LED light for improved visibility, angle attachment, and a keyless chuck that allows for quick and tool-free bit changes. The rapid charger is compatible with Festool 18 volt batteries, too.
  The "C" design and the 12 volt batteries make it their most compact, ergonomic, and lightest drill.

Maximizing Your Cordless Drill Usage

To get the most out of your cordless drill, proper usage and maintenance are key:

• Safety First: Always wear protective gear, such as safety goggles and gloves. Ensure your work area is clean and well-lit.
• Proper Handling: Use both hands when operating the drill for stability and control. Start slowly to gauge the material's resistance, then adjust your speed accordingly.
• Maintenance: Keep your drill and its components clean and free from debris. Regularly check the battery and store it in a cool, dry place to extend its lifespan.

FAQs About Cordless Drills

1. What are the benefits of using a cordless drill?

Cordless drills offer unparalleled convenience and mobility, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor projects where power outlets are not readily available.

2. Can I use my cordless drill for heavy-duty projects?

Yes, many modern cordless drills are designed to handle heavy-duty tasks. Opt for a model with a high voltage battery for increased power and durability.

3. How do I know when to charge the battery?

Most cordless drills come with an indicator or a smart system that alerts you when the battery is low. (At least, all of ours do.) Regularly charging your battery can help maintain its efficacy and longevity.

4. Are there any specific care tips for cordless drills?

Store your cordless drill in a dry place and avoid extreme temperatures. Clean the battery contacts and drill chuck regularly to ensure optimal performance.

For more Cordless Impact Wrenchinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.