Cordless drills help with many home jobs. They drill holes and drive screws without a cord. This guide covers what to know before you buy one. It helps you find a drill that fits your needs and budget.
What Is a Cordless Drill?
A cordless drill runs on a battery. It gives you freedom to work anywhere. Most models drill into wood, metal, or plastic. Some also handle masonry. They come with bits for different tasks.
Many drills act as drivers too. They tighten or remove screws. Look for models with adjustable settings. This prevents damage to materials.
Key Features to Consider
Check these features when shopping. They affect how the drill works.
- Voltage: Shows power level. 12V suits light jobs like hanging pictures. 18V or 20V works for most home tasks. Higher voltage means more power but added weight.
- Battery Type: Lithium-ion batteries last longer. They charge fast and hold power well. Amp-hours tell run time. Higher numbers mean less recharging.
- Torque: Measures twisting force. Adjustable torque stops screws from going too deep. Look for at least 300 in-lbs for basic use.
- Speed: RPM stands for rotations per minute. Variable speed helps control. Low for screws, high for drilling.
- Chuck Size: Holds bits. 3/8-inch fits most home bits. 1/2-inch handles larger ones.
- Brushless Motor: Runs cooler and lasts longer than brushed. It saves battery life.
- Weight and Grip: Lighter drills reduce fatigue. Soft grips improve comfort.
- Extras: LED lights help in dim spots. Battery indicators show charge left.
Consider your projects. For simple fixes, basic features work. For bigger jobs, get more power.
Types of Cordless Drills
Drills come in different types. Pick based on your work.
- Standard Drill/Driver: Good for drilling and screwing. Fits most home needs.
- Hammer Drill: Adds pounding action. Drills into concrete or brick.
- Impact Driver: Strong for tough screws. Compact but loud.
- Right-Angle Drill: Fits tight spots. Useful for cabinets or plumbing.
For home use, a drill/driver often works best. Add hammer function if you work with walls.
How Much Voltage Do You Need?
Voltage matters for power. Too little, and the drill struggles. Too much, and it’s heavy.
- 12V: Light tasks like assembling furniture. Compact and easy to handle.
- 18V or 20V: General home jobs. Balances power and size. Handles wood and light masonry.
- 24V or more: Heavy work like deck building. Best for pros.
Note: 18V and 20V perform similarly. 20V is max output, 18V is average. Check reviews for real use.
For most people, 18V covers daily tasks without extra cost.
Brushed vs. Brushless Motors
Brushless motors win for most buyers. They use less energy. This means longer battery life. They also run quieter and need less upkeep.
Brushed motors cost less. They suit rare use. But they wear out faster.
Go brushless if you use the drill often.
Top Brands and Models for 2025
Brands differ in quality and price. Here are reliable ones based on tests.
- DeWalt: Tough build. Good for heavy use. Models like DCD701 offer strong performance.
- Milwaukee: Long battery life. M18 line suits bigger projects.
- Makita: Smooth operation. Great ergonomics.
- Ryobi: Affordable. Fine for home fixes.
- Bosch: Reliable features. Good value.
Check 2025 reviews. Models update yearly. Look at torque and speed ratings. Prices start at $50 for basics. Kits with batteries cost more.
How to Choose the Right Drill
Think about your needs first.
- List your tasks. Drilling wood? Driving screws? Masonry?
- Set a budget. Under $100 for light use. $150+ for better features.
- Test in store. Feel the weight and grip.
- Buy a kit. Includes battery and charger. Saves money.
- Read warranties. Most offer 3-5 years.
Avoid overbuying. A mid-range drill handles most home jobs.
Answer common questions:
- What if I need masonry work? Get a hammer drill.
- How long do batteries last? 2-5 years with care.
- Can I mix brands? Stick to one for battery fit.
For more tool tips, see our guide on best sanders for smooth finishes.
Battery and Charging Tips
Batteries make or break the drill.
- Amp-hours: 2Ah for short jobs. 4Ah+ for longer.
- Charging: Fast chargers cut wait time to 30 minutes.
- Care: Store cool. Charge fully before first use.
Extra batteries help for big projects. Some brands share batteries across tools.
Maintenance and Safety
Keep your drill working well.
- Clean after use. Wipe dust.
- Store dry. Avoid heat.
- Check bits. Dull ones strain the motor.
Safety first:
- Wear eye protection.
- Secure work pieces.
- Unplug battery when changing bits.
Proper care extends life.
For related projects, try our DIY reclaimed wood table ideas.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t rush the buy.
- Ignoring weight: Heavy drills tire you out.
- Skipping clutch: Strips screws.
- Buying cheap batteries: They fail fast.
Test runtime in reviews. Real use differs from claims.
Final Thoughts
A good cordless drill saves time on home tasks. Match features to your work. Start with 18V for balance. Check brands like DeWalt or Milwaukee for quality. With this guide, you can pick one that lasts.
For outdoor tools, read our best tools for lawn maintenance.
