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The best cordless drills for your at-home DIY needs
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Best Overall
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Powerful Results: Bosch Cordless Drill AdvancedImpact 18 |
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Check Price |
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Best Combi
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For All Materials: Dewalt DCD796P1-GB XR Brushless Compact Combi Drill |
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Check Price |
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Best Drill Driver
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Great For Beginners: Ryobi R18DD3-120S One Plus Cordless Drill Driver Starter Kit |
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Check Price |
From putting up shelves to using it as a screwdriver, a cordless drill is a very handy piece of DIY kit to have to hand.
Why cordless? Well, not only is it a lot easier to manoeuvre and take where you need, but it will give you the most choice these days too – pretty much everything is going cord-free.
Today’s cordless drills have more power than they used to, thanks to lithium-ion batteries which are also long-lasting and lightweight. But you will still have to work out just how tough the drill has to be, and what materials you will be using it on.
So if you’re ready to get your DIY on and stop ignoring the growing list of jobs which need doing, read below to find our best picks of the cordless drills on the market.
Bosch has a record for making tools which are top range, and this cordless drill is amongst the absolute best around.
As with a lot of Bosch’s appliances, the battery can be used in any of their 18V range. You can shift the drill between screwing, unscrewing, drilling and impact drilling by a simple turn of the adjustment ring, which makes it one of the more simple multi-function drills to use.
20 torque settings mean you can drill through various materials, and the light will even tell you whether you are drilling backwards or forwards so you don’t make any mistakes. The magnetised base will also hold screws in place so there are no drops.
It is one of the pricier models but really worth it if you want to future-proof your purchase and get something which isn’t just good for those small jobs, but the future big ones which crop up too.
Simple to change drill bits
Durable
Dewalt is one of the most popular brands for drills because of their solid reputation. This is one of their bestsellers too, and it is no wonder.
Brushless technology means more efficiency and it is a combi drill which can be used as both a drill driver and hammer feature, for various applications. It’s compact and lightweight, making it ideal to use in smaller spaces and if you need to hold it for a prolonged period.
We love the light, which has three modes. The first is good for lighting up darker corners and stays on for 20 seconds after the trigger is released again. The second is a bit brighter, and the third is the brightest and will stay on for 20 minutes after you finish, which is good for lighting entire rooms.
Improved airflow to the electronics also means a longer usage time, as it is unlikely to overheat and so you can make the most of the long-lasting battery. There is a larger XR collection too, which will make a great set if you want various pieces of kit.
Spotlight for lighting up darker conditions
Long lasting battery
When we talk about cordless drills often having interchangeable batteries which can be used in other tools, Ryobi was one of the original champions of such technology.
This cordless drill drive is perfect for drilling into wood, metal and other difficult materials, and can also be used as an electric screwdriver. The 13mm ratcheting chuck improves the grip on the bit for enhanced performance, and there are two gears so you can match the speed to the task you are undertaking.
LED lights will help with visibility if you are in darker areas or corners, and the profiled grip handle makes holding it easy and comfortable.
It is a starter kit, with a battery and charger which can be used in other Ryobi home and garden appliances and tools. There are also plenty of extras available to buy, from drill bit collections to bags.
Great grip
Starter kit
Can tighten/remove heavy duty fasteners
This is a great everyday drill for all those around-the-home DIY jobs, but it can also function as a hammer drill for anything needing more oomph.
It will fully charge in just three hours, with the charger included. The temperature overload will shut it down if it overheats, so it will remain safe to use and the battery will last for a prolonged period.
The drilling capacity for wood is 25mm, steel 10mm and masonry 10mm. It makes a lot of jobs around the home a doddle, whether you’re putting up shelves or rehanging doors, and is a nice price for something to have to hand.
There are reviews saying it makes a fabulous first drill, and also that it is used by professional workmen. So, whatever you need it for, it will be a handy bit of kit to have.
Good at getting through various materials
Spring loaded battery for easy changes
With two mechanical gears and a variable speed controlled by a trigger, this may well be a good budget pick but it excels all round.
Forward/reverse rotation and twin LED lights to make any form of drilling anywhere a breeze. It is also really comfortable to hold with an ergonomic soft-grip handle, and a high capacity – 13mm in masonry and steel, and 38mm in wood.
A 13mm keyless chuck means bit changes are quick and easy, and the Battery Protection Circuit should protect it against overcharging, overexertion and high temperatures, so you have a longer-lasting unit.
You won’t get the power of a high-powered corded, but you will find it is just as good as some of those twice the price. It also looks good, if you’re bothered about looking the part. Note the battery is bought separately.
Battery-less
Nice bright light
Great build for price
A hammer drill makes drilling effortless and is perfect for mid-strength surfaces.
This is a 3-in-1 that can be used for screwing, drilling and impact drilling. It also features 20 torque settings for screwing in different materials. The 10 mm shank and a single-sleeve drill chuck mean swapping out bits is simple, and it is versatile.
The battery which is included is suitable for all green Bosch Home and Garden products, so it’s ideal if you want to choose a compatible collection. It also all weighs just 1.3kg so should be fine for prolonged use.
As a bonus, you get two batteries so have everything you need for consistent use. It can feel fragile when drilling tougher materials, however, so just take it slow.
Good price
3 in 1 screwing, drilling and impact drilling
Low weight
Need to start right at the beginning? Maybe you’ve had enough of trying to hunt for every tool needed and then your drill is just never up to the job?
This bundle includes an 89 piece drill bits and accessories kit, as well as a 3-year guarantee from the manufacturer. Because it is a combi, it can tackle wood and concrete alike, and variable speed settings ensure you can be gentle or give it a bit more power.
The drill bits range between everything you would need too, so you always have the correct fastening to hand. A light will guide you when drilling in dark corners, too.
The bits aren’t the best quality though – any avid DIYers may need to invest in a smaller set later down the line.
Huge set of drill kit as a bonus
Complete carry box
A great little bundle for anyone wanting to start their DIY journey, with a drill and driver included separately.
The combi drill can get through wood and tougher materials, and then you can use the screwdriver when it comes to building your new flatpack furniture. This means a dedicated tool for each stage and no complicated readjustments of settings.
You also get two rechargeable batteries and a storage bag, so you will never run out of power or lose anything. As a bonus, both are easy to handle and are lightweight in case the drilling takes a bit of time.
The perks of having two separate units are that they are both dedicated to the job. The screwdriver can get even the tightest bolts and screws out and the longest screws into dense timber. It may be handy to have a 2-in-1, but for jobs which would require a lot of to-ing and fro-ing, separate is best.
Separate tools
Two batteries and storage bag
The variable two-speed design from this drill means it is suitable for a range of uses, even as much as hammer drilling.
The LED battery gauge will tell you how much battery is left at any one time, which is very handy if you’re about to undertake a big job and don’t want to leave it half done. It’s 18V but can reach a huge 20V when at maximum power.
The brushless motor means a 50% longer running time per charge, 25% more power & 10X longer motor life. The drilling capacity of wood is 40mm, which is huge, so it is great if you’re going to be building a fence, decking or kitchen.
It is all included in a sturdy case which will keep it safe and dry in a shed or garage when not in use, and there is even a clip so you can fasten it onto a work belt when not being used to free up your hands yet keep it in reach.
Available bare or with batteries
Metal gears and inner workings for durability
A relatively more unknown brand, which may partly be the reason behind the lower price tag.
If the drill is going to be sat in your shed most of the year, only to be brought out when you buy a new mirror/picture/shelving or have to assemble your Ikea flatpack furniture together, you may not want to pay too much.
That isn’t to say it isn’t a good product – over 5,000 reviews and some glowing comments show it is worth it, especially if you’re a beginner too.
The drill bits which come with it are fine for wood but you may need to buy some more for interior walls. We’d suggest getting some anyway, but you don’t have to pay the earth.
Low price
Comes with starter drill bits
2 year guarantee
Within cordless drills, there are various sub-sections.
Loosening and tightening screws (like a screwdriver), and drilling holes. Best for everyday uses, such as putting up shelving and building furniture.
Most cordless drill drivers will accept various types of bit, for use on wood, masonry and metal. Can struggle on the toughest of materials, like concrete
A more powerful pick, as you can also drill through brickwork for putting up hanging basket brackets, or other fasteners.
They use a ‘hammering’ action as opposed to circular drilling and are also available in corded varieties for the most powerful options, although cordless hammer drills are fine for most household applications
These are the most versatile cordless drills, as they can function as both drill drivers and hammer drills. They’re usually a bit more powerful than single-function models.
You can add a range of bits to the cordless drill units, making them suitable for different functions. The downside is that they’re often heavier and bulkier than other cordless drill varieties
Drills use small metal brushes to get the shaft spinning, but brushless drills use an electronic circuit board and a sensor instead.
The result is more responsive, energy-efficient, lighter and a longer-lasting unit – even if it is a cordless drill model
A cordless drill can either come with a battery or without.
The idea of a cordless drill model is that it is a bit more flexible in terms of where you can take it. With no cords to worry about, you don’t have to think about finding the nearest plug – particularly handy if your house is short on them, or you will be outside.
Cordless drills with batteries are a complete starter kit. Those without can often use batteries in the same range. For instance, some brands allow you to use the same battery in their drills as in their hedge trimmers, grass strimmers or lawnmowers (look at the likes of GTech and Worx).
You may wish to buy a few batteries, so when one runs out, you don’t have to wait for it to charge and can swap it out right away. They can be taken out and charged on their own, as opposed to charging the entire drill.
Look for a cordless battery which can hold a charge for long enough for tasks, and is quick to charge. Batteries are measured in Ah (Amp Hours) – 1.5Ah to 4.0Ah is the general measure, and the higher the amp, the longer the charge will last.
The power of a cordless drill is measured in volts, unlike a corded which is watts. The higher the voltage, the more likely it is to be strong enough for tougher materials.
You may also want to look at the speed, in RPM. Again, a higher speed means more power.
Torque is the force a drill provides to turn an object. The key to cordless drill performance is being able to deliver torque at the highest speed.
Torque has been increasing over the years, especially with cordless drills which used to be pretty mediocre but are now more powerful than ever. If you combine speed and torque, a measurement called Power is given.
You may want to look for a reverse function. This can change the direction of screws and bits, for loosening them. Perfect if you will be using your cordless drill as a screwdriver.
The chuck size or drilling capacity will tell you the maximum diameter of bit that can be used. It is usually from 10mm (3/8 inch) to 13mm (1/2 inch). Pay attention if you already have some bits.
Some cordless drills may only accept bits which are from certain brands.
Also, pay attention to gears. This is how much speed the cordless drill ranges. Those with more than one gear will give you different speed ranges, but those with single gears can sometimes still be adjusted to go faster or slower.
Extras such as LED lighting can also help.
It depends on a few factors – how much you will be using it, how powerful it has to be and how it comes. Prices of cordless drills will often be between £40 and £200, with those at the higher end of the scale usually having more power, functionality and battery life.
If you’ll be using your cordless drill a lot (say you’ve just bought a new house you’re doing up, or are revamping the garden), spending that bit more will probably ensure you don’t have to buy another before the job is done.
Likewise, spending a bit more on a cordless drill which can do everything could mean it comes in handy not just for the immediate future, but also tasks in a few years time. Say you have to drill through brickwork or concrete.
As well, you may want to spend more on a cordless drill which comes with a spare battery, dedicated bits and even extras such as sanders. Bare drills with no batteries will be cheaper, so if you have an existing group of tools, you may want to stick to the same brand.
A cordless drill will be perfectly fine for the majority of tasks around the home – putting up pictures, repairing fencing, and even driving screws. Corded drills offer more power, so are often used outdoors for getting through concrete nowadays.
This means that cordless is likely just fine (and it offers a lot more ease when it comes to not being restricted by cords and power sockets). However, just check it will be future-proof – if there is a chance you’ll be drilling through outdoor brick anytime soon, you may need a more powerful, expensive option.
