Cordless drills are one of the most versatile and useful tools for any DIY enthusiast, home improvement project, or professional contractor. They allow you to drill holes, drive screws, and perform other tasks without the hassle of cords and outlets. But with so many cordless drills on the market, how do you choose the best one for your needs?
In this article, we will compare some of the top-rated cordless drills based on their features, performance, durability, and customer reviews. We will also provide some tips on how to use and maintain your cordless drill properly. By the end of this article, you will have a better idea of which cordless drill is the best for you.
Before we dive into the specific models, let’s review some of the key factors that you should consider when buying a cordless drill. These include:
Power: The power of a cordless drill is measured in volts (V) and determines how much torque (rotational force) it can produce. The higher the voltage, the more powerful the drill. However, higher voltage also means heavier and more expensive batteries. For most household tasks, a 12V or 18V drill is sufficient. For heavy-duty applications, you may need a 20V or 24V drill.
Speed: The speed of a cordless drill is measured in revolutions per minute (RPM) and determines how fast the drill bit can spin. The higher the speed, the faster the drilling. However, higher speed also means more heat and wear on the drill and the bit. For most drilling tasks, a variable speed trigger that allows you to adjust the speed according to the material and the bit size is ideal. Some drills also have a two-speed gearbox that lets you switch between low and high speed modes.
Chuck: The chuck is the part of the drill that holds the drill bit. The size of the chuck determines the maximum diameter of the bit that the drill can accept. Most cordless drills have a 3/8-inch or 1/2-inch chuck. A 3/8-inch chuck can handle most common drill bits, while a 1/2-inch chuck can accommodate larger and longer bits. Some chucks are keyless, meaning that you can tighten and loosen them by hand, while others require a key to operate. A keyless chuck is more convenient and faster, but a keyed chuck may offer more grip and security.
Battery: The battery is the source of power for a cordless drill. The capacity of the battery is measured in ampere-hours (Ah) and determines how long the drill can run on a single charge. The higher the capacity, the longer the runtime. However, higher capacity also means heavier and more expensive batteries. For most cordless drills, a 1.5Ah or 2.0Ah battery is adequate. For longer and more demanding tasks, you may need a 3.0Ah or 4.0Ah battery.
Some batteries also have indicators that show the remaining charge level. The type of the battery also affects the performance and lifespan of the drill. The most common types are nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), and lithium-ion (Li-ion). NiCd batteries are the cheapest and most durable, but they suffer from memory effect and self-discharge. NiMH batteries are more environmentally friendly and have higher capacity, but they are also prone to memory effect and self-discharge. Li-ion batteries are the most advanced and expensive, but they offer the best power-to-weight ratio, no memory effect, and minimal self-discharge.
Features: Besides the basic specifications, some cordless drills also have additional features that enhance their functionality and convenience. These include:
LED light: A built-in LED light can illuminate the work area and improve visibility and accuracy.
Brushless motor: A brushless motor uses magnets instead of brushes to power the drill, resulting in less friction, heat, and noise. This makes the drill more efficient, powerful, and durable, but also more expensive.
Hammer action: A hammer action adds a percussive force to the drilling motion, making it easier to drill into hard materials like concrete and brick. However, a hammer action also makes the drill heavier, louder, and more expensive.
Clutch: A clutch is a mechanism that disengages the motor from the chuck when a certain level of resistance is reached, preventing the drill from overdriving or stripping the screws. A clutch also protects the drill and the user from kickback and injury. A clutch usually has multiple settings that allow you to adjust the torque according to the task and the material.
Belt hook: A belt hook is a clip that attaches to the drill and allows you to hang it from your belt or tool pouch, freeing your hands and improving mobility.
The Best Cordless Drills of 2024
Now that you know what to look for in a cordless drill, let’s take a look at some of the best cordless drills of 2024 based on their features, performance, durability, and customer reviews. We have selected five models that cover a range of prices, power levels, and features. These are:
This is a high-end cordless drill that offers excellent power, speed, and features. It has a 20V Li-ion battery with a 2.0Ah capacity and a fuel gauge, a brushless motor that delivers up to 460 UWO (unit watts out) of power and 2,000 RPM of speed, a 1/2-inch keyless metal ratcheting chuck that provides superior bit grip, a two-speed gearbox that allows you to switch between 0-550 RPM and 0-2,000 RPM, a 15-position clutch that lets you control the torque, an LED light with a 20-second delay, and a belt hook. The drill is also compact and lightweight, measuring 6.9 inches in length and weighing 3.4 pounds. The kit includes the drill, two batteries, a charger, a belt hook, and a hard case. The drill has a 3-year limited warranty, a 1-year free service contract, and a 90-day money-back guarantee. Customers love this drill for its power, performance, durability, and features. They also appreciate the battery life, the ergonomic design, and the quality of the case. Some customers, however, complain about the chuck wobble, the lack of a hammer function, and the high price.
This is a mid-range cordless drill that offers a great balance of power, speed, and features. It has an 18V Li-ion battery with a 3.0Ah capacity and a fuel gauge, a brushless motor that delivers up to 440 in.lbs of torque and 1,900 RPM of speed, a 1/2-inch keyless metal chuck that provides increased strength and durability, a two-speed gearbox that allows you to switch between 0-500 RPM and 0-1,900 RPM, a 16-position clutch that lets you control the torque, an LED light, and a rubberized soft grip. The drill is also compact and lightweight, measuring 6.6 inches in length and weighing 3.8 pounds. The kit includes the drill, one battery, a charger, and a soft case. The drill has a 3-year limited warranty on the tool and the battery. Customers like this drill for its power, performance, durability, and features. They also praise the battery life, the ergonomic design, and the quality of the case. Some customers, however, report issues with the chuck slipping, the lack of a belt hook, and the noise level.
This is a low-end cordless drill that offers decent power, speed, and features. It has a 12V Li-ion battery with a 2.0Ah capacity and a fuel gauge, a motor that delivers up to 265 in.lbs of torque and 1,300 RPM of speed, a 3/8-inch keyless chuck that provides quick and easy bit changes, a two-speed gearbox that allows you to switch between 0-350 RPM and 0-1,300 RPM, a 20-position clutch that lets you control the torque, an LED light, and a soft grip. The drill is also compact and lightweight, measuring 7 inches in length and weighing 2.1 pounds. The kit includes the drill, two batteries, a charger, and a soft case. The drill has a 1-year limited warranty, a 2-year battery warranty, and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Customers enjoy this drill for its power, performance, durability, and features. They also appreciate the battery life, the ergonomic design, and the quality of the case. Some customers, however, complain about the chuck wobble, the lack of a hammer function, and the low torque.
This is a budget-friendly cordless drill that offers basic power, speed, and features. It has a 20V Li-ion battery with a 1.5Ah capacity and no fuel gauge, a motor that delivers up to 115 in.lbs of torque and 650 RPM of speed, a 3/8-inch keyless chuck that provides easy bit changes, a single-speed gearbox, an 11-position clutch that lets you control the torque, an LED light, and a soft grip. The drill is also compact and lightweight, measuring 8.5 inches in length and weighing 3.4 pounds. The kit includes the drill and one battery. The drill has a 2-year limited warranty. Customers like this drill for its price, performance, durability, and features. They also appreciate the battery life, the ergonomic design, and the ease of use. Some customers, however, report issues with the chuck loosening, the lack of a charger, and the low power.
This is a value-for-money cordless drill that offers good power, speed, and features. It has a 20V Li-ion battery with a 1.3Ah capacity and a fuel gauge, a motor that delivers up to 283 UWO of power and 1,500 RPM of speed, a 1/2-inch keyless chuck that provides strong bit retention, a two-speed gearbox that allows you to switch between 0-350 RPM and 0-1,500 RPM, a 23-position clutch that lets you control the torque, an LED light, and a soft grip. The drill is also compact and lightweight, measuring 8.25 inches in length and weighing 3.5 pounds. The kit includes the drill, one battery, a charger, and a soft case. The drill has a 3-year limited warranty, a 1-year free service contract, and a 90-day money-back guarantee. Customers enjoy this drill for its power, performance, durability, and features. They also praise the battery life, the ergonomic design, and the quality of the case. Some customers, however, complain about the chuck wobble, the lack of a hammer function, and the noise level.
What are the best cordless drills for DIY? 2024
Based on our research and analysis, we have selected some of the best cordless drills for DIY that you can buy online. These are:
This is one of the most powerful and versatile cordless drills on the market, with a 20V Li-ion battery, a brushless motor, a two-speed transmission, a 15-position clutch, and a 1/2 inch metal ratcheting chuck. It delivers up to 460 in-lbs of torque and up to 2,000 RPM, making it ideal for drilling and driving through wood, metal, and concrete. It also has a compact and lightweight design, weighing only 3.4 lbs and measuring only 6.9 inches in length. It features a LED light with a 20-second delay, a belt hook, and a bit holder. It comes with two 2Ah batteries, a fast charger, a belt hook, a bit holder, and a carrying case.
This is another excellent cordless drill, with an 18V Li-ion battery, a brushless motor, a two-speed transmission, a 21-position clutch, and a 1/2 inch keyless chuck. It delivers up to 440 in-lbs of torque and up to 1,900 RPM, making it suitable for a wide range of drilling and driving applications. It also has a compact and ergonomic design, weighing only 3.8 lbs and measuring only 6.6 inches in length. It features a LED light, a rubberized grip, and a battery indicator. It comes with one 3Ah battery, a rapid charger, and a tool bag.
This is a great cordless drill for beginners and light-duty tasks, with a 12V Li-ion battery, a two-speed transmission, a 20-position clutch, and a 3/8 inch single-sleeve chuck. It delivers up to 265 in-lbs of torque and up to 1,300 RPM, making it ideal for drilling and driving in tight spaces and soft materials. It also has a compact and lightweight design, weighing only 2.1 lbs and measuring only 7 inches in length. It features a LED light, a fuel gauge, and a soft grip. It comes with two 2Ah batteries, a charger, and a carrying case.
How to Use and Maintain Your Cordless Drill
Once you have chosen the best cordless drill for your needs, you need to know how to use and maintain it properly. Here are some tips that will help you get the most out of your cordless drill:
Read the manual: Before you use your cordless drill for the first time, read the manual carefully and follow the instructions. The manual will tell you how to operate, charge, store, and troubleshoot your drill. It will also warn you of any potential hazards and safety precautions.
Choose the right bit: Depending on the task and the material, you need to choose the right bit for your cordless drill. There are different types of bits for drilling, driving, and other purposes. Some common types are twist bits, spade bits, hole saws, screwdriver bits, nut drivers, and countersink bits. Make sure the bit is compatible with your drill and the chuck size. Also, make sure the bit is sharp, clean, and undamaged.
Adjust the speed and torque: Depending on the task and the material, you need to adjust the speed and torque of your cordless drill. The speed determines how fast the bit spins, while the torque determines how much force the drill applies. Generally, you need higher speed and lower torque for softer materials, and lower speed and higher torque for harder materials. You can use the variable speed trigger, the two-speed gearbox, and the clutch to adjust the speed and torque of your drill. Refer to the manual or the online resources for the recommended settings for different tasks and materials.
Drill pilot holes: Before you drill a hole or drive a screw, it is advisable to drill a pilot hole first. A pilot hole is a smaller hole that guides the larger bit or screw and prevents the material from splitting, cracking, or wandering. To drill a pilot hole, use a smaller bit than the final hole or screw size and drill to the desired depth. Then, switch to the larger bit or screw and drill or drive through the pilot hole.
Use a drill guide: If you want to drill a hole at a precise angle or location, you can use a drill guide. A drill guide is a device that attaches to your drill and helps you align the bit with the workpiece. Some drill guides have a base that clamps to the work surface, while others have a sleeve that slides over the bit. You can also make your own drill guide using a scrap piece of wood or metal with a hole drilled at the desired angle or location.
Charge the battery: To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your cordless drill, you need to charge the battery properly. Follow the instructions in the manual for the charging time and frequency. Do not overcharge or undercharge the battery, as this can damage the battery and reduce its capacity. Also, do not expose the battery to extreme temperatures, moisture, or fire. Store the battery in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. If you have spare batteries, rotate them regularly to prevent them from losing their charge.
Clean the drill: After each use, you need to clean your cordless drill to remove any dust, dirt, or debris that may have accumulated on the drill, the chuck, or the bit. Use a soft cloth, a brush, or compressed air to wipe or blow away the dirt. Do not use any water, solvents, or abrasives, as they may damage the drill or the battery. Also, do not disassemble the drill, as this may void the warranty and cause injury.
Conclusion
Cordless drills are essential tools for any DIY enthusiast, home improvement project, or professional contractor. They offer convenience, versatility, and performance without the limitations of cords and outlets. However, choosing the best cordless drill for your needs can be challenging, as there are many factors to consider and many models to compare. In this article, we have reviewed some of the best cordless drills of 2024 based on their features, performance, durability, and customer reviews. We have also provided some tips on how to use and maintain your cordless drill properly. We hope this article has helped you find the best cordless drill for your needs. Happy drilling!
