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A reliable cordless drill is the mechanical anchor of any home toolkit, instantly turning stalled-out projects and exhausting repairs into fast, effortless progress.
The best drill we have ever tested is the DeWalt Atomic 20-Volt Max. No other drill offers the same balance of performance, ease of use, and lightweight handling in a single package.
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2" Drill Driver is our top pick for jobs that require plenty of drilling and driving power, without sacrificing battery life.
On a budget or just need a smaller drill for home projects? The Bosch 18V Compact Brushless has impressive power performance for its size, but a shorter battery life compared to more expensive options.
To find out which models actually deliver on their marketing claims, we bought 17 of the top drills and pushed them to their mechanical limits. Our team of engineers and builders ran exhaustive side-by-side gauntlets—sinking hundreds of lag bolts, binding massive self-feed bits, and draining batteries under heavy thermal load—to definitively rank the best tools on the market.
Editor's Note: On Sept 1, 2026, we overhauled our test lineup and included new award winners.
If we could only own one drill, it would be the DeWalt Atomic 20-Volt Max Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Drill Driver DCD794B. It does it all, from miniature to massive. This tiny, torqued machine is more powerful than we expected, considering its small size, weight, and ease of lifting into awkward spots. During our 1" spade test against a stack of 2x lumber, our lead tester noted that “I was shocked how nice and smooth it was. Even when breaking through the end.” Similarly, when we put the Atomic up to a timed test against a 16-gauge steel sheet with a ¼" bit, it punched through in a blazing 1.1 seconds: one of the top performers. The 15-position clutch provides exceptional precision for driving screws flush or accurately countersinking them. During our endurance test—drilling three holes and driving 16 screws per cycle—the battery completed a better-than-average 8.5 cycles, delivering more than enough runtime for typical projects. An integrated battery gauge also lets you quickly monitor charge while working.
SPECIFICATIONS
Battery Voltage
20V
Motor Type
Brushless
Measured Weight
3.2 lb
Five Inch Hole Saw Test
21 seconds
Lag Screw Test
4.8 in
The Atomic only falters at the extreme top end of its torque curve—a threshold most homeowners will never actually cross. In our heavy-duty tests, it stalled while driving a 5-inch lag screw, leaving the head ¼-inch proud even after dropping to low gear. Pushing a 5-inch hole saw through a solid door caused similar bind-ups, requiring a highly controlled feed rate to prevent stalling. Despite lacking the raw power for massive fasteners, this ultra-compact kit remains an exceptional value for buyers prioritizing a lightweight footprint over extreme heavy-duty output.
If you need a top-tier drill with enough muscle for both DIYers and working professionals, get the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2" Drill/Driver 2903-20. This burly drill is built for heavy-duty jobs and earned some of the highest marks throughout our testing. When faced with sawing a hole through a solid wood door, the Milwaukee outperformed its competitors, accomplishing the task in only 11 seconds, which led our testers to exclaim, “The door stood no chance!” When it came time to tap a beefy 5" lag bolt, this next-level drill was able to push it in without too much effort, and with Milwaukee's auto-stop lock feature, anytime the drill bound up, it would turn off for an extra layer of safety. This tool's battery capacity is more than sufficient to complete larger projects, and it boasts one of the fastest charge times in our entire lineup, at just 25 minutes. It also comes with all the bells and whistles you'd expect in a high-end drill, including a light, belt clip, 2-speed control, and a premium handle for ultimate ease and functionality, from home to the jobsite.
SPECIFICATIONS
Battery Voltage
20V
Motor Type
Brushless
Measured Weight
4.2 lb
Five Inch Hole Saw Test
11 seconds
Lag Screw Test
5.0 in
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel is somewhat heavier than other drills we tested, weighing in at just over 4 pounds. This isn't an unheard-of weight, and we didn't mind it when working, particularly for this caliber of tool. Our biggest bellyache is the price of this drill, and that's not including the battery or charger. Someone who doesn't use a drill regularly or doesn't need heavy-duty driving and drilling power might find other products more wallet-friendly, such as the significantly cheaper Craftsman V20 1/2-In. Drill/Driver Kit, which includes a battery and charger. Despite this possible financial element, the M18 Fuel emerged as the top choice from our deep stack of competition and is an unstoppable force in drilling prowess.
The Dewalt Xtreme 12V 5-In-1 Drill Driver Kit highlights the benefits of a drill with reduced weight and compact dimensions, all while delivering a level of power and performance that rivals drills with higher voltage ratings. This drill was our ideal choice for tasks that required overhead reach or fit in cramped environments, such as attics or crawlspaces. With various attachments, it allows significant adjustments in drilling angles and positions, greatly improving convenience in tight or obstructed spaces. But don't let the compact size fool you. Our testers found it “effortless to use compared to the other 5-in-1s,” which can't always match the power of heavier-duty models. Fitted with a 5" hole saw, it cut through a solid core door in a respectable 40 seconds (faster than any other 12V model we tested) and didn't bind up at all during the process. It was able to drill through 16ga sheet steel with a 1/4" bit in just 1.5 seconds, which is a time on par with come 20V DeWalt models. In our drilling tests, it performed well when used for 3" deck screws, getting the fasteners flush almost 100% of the time, but struggled a bit with the larger lag screw, and was only able to reach a 4.12" depth.
SPECIFICATIONS
Battery Voltage
12V
Motor Type
Brushless
Measured Weight
2.1 lb
Five Inch Hole Saw Test
40 seconds
Lag Screw Test
4.1 in
Although the Dewalt Xtreme 12V 5-In-1 Drill Driver Kit proved to be a great drill driver, it has some shortcomings. The kit includes only one battery, compared with the two typically included with 12V models from competing brands. In terms of battery life, it only made it through 4 rounds of our battery-testing routine before petering out halfway through the 5th, and it takes almost an hour to recharge fully. We also found that attachments can be a little finicky to line up and attach. While this is a 12-volt model, it would be nice to see a chuck size up to a half inch, as seen on more powerful models, rather than the ⅜ inch chuck. Minor criticisms aside, if a 12-volt system meets your power, performance, and battery-life requirements, you'll be more than satisfied with this compact, capable model.
For everyday household repairs and routine DIY tasks, most users never need massive, contractor-grade torque. The Bosch 18V Compact hits that sweet spot, pairing a lightweight, maneuverable frame with outstanding battery efficiency that rarely requires trips back to the charger. It delivers all the muscle required for furniture assembly, hanging fixtures, and standard pilot holes—while saving you up to $100 compared to top-tier flagship kits.
SPECIFICATIONS
Battery Voltage
18V
Motor Type
Brushless
Measured Weight
2.8 lb
Five Inch Hole Saw Test
56 seconds
Lag Screw Test
3.4 in
However, its limitations quickly surface when you push it beyond casual use. In our driving tests, the motor lacked the high-end torque required for heavy fasteners, stalling with over an inch and a half remaining on a heavy lag screw. Furthermore, while the all-metal ratcheting chuck is durable, its unorthodox internal jaw geometry makes it frustratingly easy to clamp smaller drill bits off-center, leading to noticeable runout and wobble.
Testing the Bosch 18V Compact's speed and clean hole clearance across repeated drilling passes in dimensional lumber. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The included 18V 2.0Ah battery and charger restored a full charge in just 63 minutes during testing. This drill has great battery life, which is ideal for homeowners who don't want to worry about constantly running out of juice. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Driving fasteners horizontally into wall studs to evaluate the Bosch drill's balance, ergonomics, and trigger feathering. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Toggling the 2-speed mechanical gear selector on the Bosch 18V Compact between 500 and 1,900 max RPMs. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Powering through our 5-inch door-hole saw test in low gear to prevent the motor from stalling under heavy load. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Evaluating the Bosch 18V Compact at the workbench after completing our standardized drilling and driving battery trials. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Product Comparison Table
Through a series of side-by-side tests, we can easily compare and contrast the strengths and weaknesses of every drill in our review. Credit: Austin Palmer
How We Tested
To test and review drills, we bought all the tools from major retailers at standard prices, just like you. At GearLab, we never ask for or accept free products from companies, ensuring that financial incentives don't compromise our reviews. We tested these tools in controlled side-by-side evaluations and used them for various home renovation projects. We also did an exhaustive battery test to see just how many holes we could make, or screws we could drive, with each device before they ran out of juice. Finally, we scored each power tool's ergonomics, comfort, and convenience features. In addition to our extensive experience with these products, we consulted other contractors and professionals, as well as dedicated DIYers, to get their opinions on which drills had the most potential and to design our scoring and testing plan. Check out our full in-depth testing process here.
Over the years, we've purchased more than 40 cordless drills for testing. We put each model through multiple and repeated performance analyses to rate drilling, driving, battery life, and more. In total, each drill goes through more than 46 individual tests. With these tools, we drilled hundreds of holes in both metal and wood, using everything from standard twist drills to paddle bits and giant hole saws. We drove in over 1000 screws — everything from standard #9 wood screws to hulking ½" lag bolts. The most critical metric is drilling, comprising 35% of the overall score. This metric is made up of drilling with a 5" hole saw (50% of total metric score), 1" spade bit (30% of score), and 16 ga Steel with twist bits (20% of total).
Why Trust GearLab
Our testing team includes Austin Palmer, Aspen Rain Weaver, and David Wise. Austin has extensive experience using tools in both an industrial and DIY setting, having worked on an oil rig and undertaken extensive renovations on his own home. Aspen began building some of the first earthships in New Mexico at the ripe age of seven and has continued to build professionally to this day, specializing in sustainable high-end construction. David has formal training as a mechanical engineer and has used cordless drills on all sorts of projects, ranging from deepwater surveying robots to Formula SAE race cars. He has also apprenticed and assisted his dad, a general contractor for over 30 years, on various job sites.
Through side-by-side comparison and measurable tests, we can directly compare and rank the performance of these drills.
Analysis and Test Results
To see which model is the best of the best, we researched and compared specifications of the top tools, then bought the most compelling ones to test side-by-side. We rated and scored these tools in tons of different tests, grouping them into four weighted rating metrics—drilling, driving, battery life, and convenience—and discussed our results below.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
If you are shopping for a new drill on a budget, you will notice a pretty direct correlation between the cost of the tool and its performance. However, this doesn't mean you need to worry about a tight wallet, because many people don't need the high performance associated with such products. Even some of the cheapest models in our test offer enough power tailored towards typical homeowners without many grandiose DIY aspirations. The Bosch 18V Compact Brushless is our top recommendation for anyone who needs a drill without spending a ton.
If you are a serious DIYer or use tools professionally, you will want to shop in the higher price ranges. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2" Driver is an absolute favorite of our testers, and when used frequently, its performance advantages outshine the upfront costs. In the compact 12V 5-in-1 sector of the drill driver market, we found the Dewalt Xtreme 12V 5-In-1 Drill Driver Kit to offer extreme convenience and great performance at a reasonably affordable price.
Spade bit testing using the Bosch 18V. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Drilling
This metric is based on how each product fared throughout three separate tests: drilling through steel, drilling holes with a paddle bit, and using a 5-inch hole saw through a solid-core door.
Large Holes
The 5" hole saw test contributed the largest portion of scoring for this metric, and to evaluate how well each model handled this task, we timed how long it took to cut a hole with each model, starting when we pulled the trigger and stopping when the bit could go no further. We also noted which drills struggled or required us to switch settings midway through to complete the task. The less time each drill took, the better it scored in this test.
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2" Driver outperformed the competition with a blazing-fast time, cutting through our testing door faster than any other drill. Other standouts in this assessment were the Ryobi One+ HP 18V PBLDD02K1 and the Kobalt XTR KXDD 1424A-03, which both sliced holes six seconds slower than the Milwaukee.
Multiple models tested in a 5 inch hole saw test. Credit: Austin Palmer
Small Holes
The next set of tests involved using a 1-inch spade bit to make tons and tons of holes in a standard wooden 2x12, and using a ¼" and ½" twist drill in each tool to make holes in a 16-gauge steel sheet. To award points for each drill model, we measured the time each tool took to complete these drilling tasks and the level of struggle it encountered.
Small Hole Drilling Performance
Product
1" Spade bit
16ga Steel
Makita 18V LXT XFD14Z
10.0
10.0
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2903-20
10.0
9.4
Dewalt Atomic DCD794D1
9.5
8.8
Kobalt XTR 24V KXDD 1424A-03
8.0
10.0
Ryobi One+ HP PBLDD02K1
8.5
9.4
DeWalt 20V DCD771C2
9.0
7.0
Bosch 18V GSR18V-400B12
7.5
7.8
DeWalt DCD701F2 Xtreme 12V
6.0
9.0
Dewalt Xtreme 12V DCD703F1
7.0
7.8
Milwaukee M12 Fuel 2505-22
5.5
8.0
BOSCH 12V GSR12V-300FCB22
6.0
7.4
Craftsman V20 CMCD700C1
5.0
7.8
Bosch 12V PS31-2A
5.0
6.6
Workpro 20V
3.0
5.4
Black+Decker LD120VA
1.0
3.8
Avid Power 20V Max ACD316
2.0
2.4
Black+Decker 12V BDCDD12C
1.0
1.0
The Makita 18V LXT XFD14Z earned one of the top spots in these smaller hole drilling tests (although we had some battery troubles in the 5" hole saw test, causing its overall score to drop a bit). Likewise, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2" Drill Driver made quick work of the 2x12 test, and on the 16-gauge steel sheet, it ripped through with the ¼" twist tip at a blinding speed of 0.7 seconds. Closely following was the Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V, making ¼" holes in 0.8 seconds and ½" holes in only 2.7 seconds. The Ryobi's score was further boosted when we used this model to make 1" holes with a spade bit into a 2 x 12 board. We found that it drills very quickly without much struggle, provided you are in the appropriate gear setting.
The Atomic was one of our most consistent competitors during our Drilling metric. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The DeWalt Atomic nearly matched the performance of the aforementioned models when drilling through steel with the two twist drill sizes, easily completing the ¼" bit test in 1.1 seconds and the ½" bit test in 4.8 seconds. It also made short work of the 2x12 with the 1" spade bit, only stalling for a brief moment right as it punched through the wood. The DeWalt 20V Max CompactDCD771C2 deserves a mention for its solid performance as well. This tool made quick work of creating ¼" and ½" holes in sheet metal and wooden materials, truly excelling when used with the spade bit.
Some drills, like the Rigid 18V, actually performed better through steel than they did drilling with a spade bit. Consider the types of materials you work with regularly when examining drilling capability. Credit: Matt Lighthart
If you're in the market for a smaller 12-volt drill, the Dewalt Xtreme 12V 5-In-1 Drill Driver Kit DCD703F1 delivered impressive, well-balanced results in our drilling tests, especially given its lighter, more compact design. Its drilling performance rivaled and even outperformed a few of the less capable higher-voltage models we tested, proving it is not only convenient but also very capable. The Bosch 12V Flexiclick 2505-22 and the Milwaukee M12 2505-22 exhibited decent performances, with the Milwaukee M12 taking the lead, but both are reasonable options for drilling tasks in the compact 12-volt tool sector, even if they aren't up to for larger jobs that more powerful models better handle.
Overall Drilling Performance
In the end, our team saw powerful performance from the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2" Drill Driver. It excelled through every single drilling challenge we placed in its path and proved a ferocious ability to complete a range of difficult tasks. It easily and swiftly drilled 5-inch holes with a hole saw, 1-inch holes with a spade bit, and multiple hole sizes in sheet steel, while we did most of the work on its high-speed, low-torque setting.
The M18 Fuel ½" was the champion, but there are some seriously strong competitors, and the margin was narrow. Both DeWalt drills and the Atomic DCD794D1, as well as the Kobalt XTR, delivered top-notch drilling performances right behind the M18 Fuel1/2". All three models delivered fast results in our hole saw tests and powered through the door like hot knives through butter, punching through both metal and wood with dominant precision.
The powerful M18 drill put a 5-inch hole in this solid door in just 15 seconds, which is seriously impressive. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Driving
Our next series of evaluations focused on how well these devices performed at driving fasteners. This metric comprises two different tests using 5" lag screws and 3" wood screws. For our lag screw test, we attempted to drive in a monster fastener — ½" diameter, 5" long — completely. We started with the appropriate pilot hole, noting the time it took and whether any adjustments were necessary. Not all drills could finish the job, so for further comparison, we measured the depth to which each model could drive the screw and assigned higher scores to those that got the screw closest to the full 5 inches.
Along with a few others, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel ½-inch, the DeWalt 20V Max DCD771C2, and the Makita 18V XFD14Z were the five top-performing drills in this test, having no issues driving the lag bolt to its full 5-inch depth. When we ran the same test with the Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V, it drove the screw head about 3/4 of the way into the board without stopping. With multiple trigger pulls, we were able to push the lag the rest of the way. Luckily for Ryobi, it was very efficient at driving 3-inch wood screws. It was easy to get the screw heads flush with the board, and this model had great speed control during this second part of our assessment, giving it a competitive edge over other models.
The M18 put every other drill to shame during our Driving metric testing. Credit: Natalie Kafader
To compare the performance of each drill with wood screws, we examined how quickly and easily each tool drove the screws into a pair of stacked dimensional lumber boards, checking whether they could countersink the heads flush. We did this test over… and over… and over again to get a true hands-on feel for each drill. We based our scoring on each model's relative speed and consistency.
Better driving power results in a more reliable tool to get hard jobs done. Credit: Austin Palmer
More of the drills were successful in this test, but true to form, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel landed one of the top spots in this second round. Following up the lead was the DeWalt Atomic DCD794D1, Makita 18V LXT, and the Kobalt XTR 24-volt, which all produced scores that were nothing to turn your nose at. None of these models struggled to set 3-inch decking screws, and all four felt very controlled. They all come with variable clutch torques, which make setting screws a cinch.
Driving Performance
Product
Lag Screw
3" Screw
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2903-20
10.0
10.0
Makita 18V LXT XFD14Z
10.0
10.0
DeWalt 20V DCD771C2
10.0
10.0
Dewalt Atomic DCD794D1
9.4
10.0
Kobalt XTR 24V KXDD 1424A-03
9.0
10.0
Ryobi One+ HP PBLDD02K1
9.7
8.0
Craftsman V20 CMCD700C1
5.0
8.0
Dewalt Xtreme 12V DCD703F1
5.0
7.0
DeWalt DCD701F2 Xtreme 12V
4.0
7.0
Bosch 18V GSR18V-400B12
3.5
7.0
BOSCH 12V GSR12V-300FCB22
4.0
6.0
Bosch 12V PS31-2A
3.5
6.0
Milwaukee M12 Fuel 2505-22
3.5
5.5
Black+Decker LD120VA
1.0
6.0
Workpro 20V
4.0
2.0
Avid Power 20V Max ACD316
0.5
4.5
Black+Decker 12V BDCDD12C
1.0
3.0
When it came to overall scores for this metric, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL, DeWalt 20V Max DCD771C2, and the Makita 18V LXT distinguished themselves from the rest. These devices did exceptionally well in both tests, earning a perfect score for their top-notch performances. They did a great job driving screws to full depth without any difficulty, even the giant lag screw. We also appreciate how these tools provide ample control to set the screw heads to their proper depth. Notably, the DeWalt Atomic DCD794D1, Kobalt XTR 24-volt KXDD 1424A-03, Ryobi One+ PBLDD02K1, and the DeWalt 20V Max DCD777C2 offered strong driving performances, nearly as good as the top three models.
This Bosch FleXiclick 12-volt model drives screws decently as well, but can't compete with more powerful high voltage drill drivers. Credit: Abriah Wofford
The DeWalt Xtreme 12V 5-In-1 performed the best among the 12-volt cordless drills in the drilling metric, holding its own against higher-voltage models when driving standard screws, matching their speed, and easily setting countersinks in a controlled manner. It could also drive many more screws and bore more holes in succession than other 12-volt models. The BOSCH 12V Flexiclick 5-In-1 and the Milwaukee M12 FUEL 2505-22 both exhibited reliable driving performance but were less impressive than the 12V DeWalt and really can not perform as well as much stronger 18-volt and 20-volt models — whereas the DeWalt Xtremedid rival the performance of a few higher voltage models.
Even though it can't quite compare to more powerful 18-volt models, the Dewalt Xtreme 12V drove an impressive number of deck screws before exhausting its battery. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Battery Life
After assessing each tool's drilling and driving performance, we ranked and compared the cordless tools' battery performance. We tested how efficiently each device used its battery power by driving in 16 screws and boring three 1" holes through a 2x12 with the spade bit. This was considered one set, and we awarded points based on how many sets each model could complete before it died. We used the included batteries for the test or a comparably sized battery from the manufacturer if the device was purchased as a tool-only option.
Battery Life Test
Product
Battery Test Sets Completed
Makita 18V LXT XFD14Z
9.5
Bosch 18V GSR18V-400B12
8.8
Kobalt XTR 24V KXDD 1424A-03
8.8
Dewalt Atomic DCD794D1
8.5
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2903-20
7.4
Ryobi One+ HP PBLDD02K1
6.9
Craftsman V20 CMCD700C1
4.7
Black+Decker LD120VA
4.7
DeWalt DCD701F2 Xtreme 12V
4.3
DeWalt 20V DCD771C2
4.1
BOSCH 12V GSR12V-300FCB22
3.6
Dewalt Xtreme 12V DCD703F1
3.6
Bosch 12V PS31-2A
3.6
Workpro 20V
3.5
Milwaukee M12 Fuel 2505-22
2.8
Avid Power 20V Max ACD316
2.7
Black+Decker 12V BDCDD12C
1.6
We got wildly varied results across models during this test, with some completing nearly 10 sets and others struggling to complete two. The Makita XFD14Z performed exceptionally well in this metric, completing nearly 10 cycles before the battery was exhausted. We used a two-amp-hour battery during this test and appreciated how swiftly it charged back up, taking only 23 minutes. Following were a handful of units which completed between 7-9 full cycles, including the Bosch GSR18V-400B12, Kobalt XTR KCDD1424A-03, and the DeWalt Atomic DCD794D1.
Batteries that are easy to swap are a sure way to keep you going on projects. Credit: Abriah Wofford
We also include recharge time in our scoring for this metric, using the standard manufacturer's charger to compare times. The test is simple: start the timer when we plug in the battery to charge, and stop it when the battery indicates it is fully charged. If you are working on an ongoing project, recharge time can be a significant factor, determining how much downtime you need to set aside for charging.
Get a Rapid Charger
Many manufacturers and third parties produce rapid chargers for cordless tool batteries. If you frequently wait for your batteries to charge, consider getting a rapid charger to reduce your charging time.
With a recorded charge time of just 23 minutes, the Makita XFD14Z impressed our testing team, particularly given its 18V battery. While the best 12-volt models can't compete with the best 18- or 20-volt models in battery life, similarly rated 2-amp-hour batteries charge relatively quickly in 12-volt models. Many of the drills in our test that were able to charge in under an hour are 12V models, like the DeWalt 12V DCD710S2 and the DeWalt DCD701F2 Xtreme 12V Max Brushless 3/8 in. | DeWalt Extreme 12V DCD701F2. Additionally, many compact 12-volt drill driver kits, such as the Milwaukee M12 Fuel 2505-22, include two batteries, letting you handle most home and DIY tasks with minimal downtime, even if the batteries don't last as long.
After combining scores for both tests to get our battery life rating, the Makita 18V XFD14Z continues to impress, earning one of the top overall positions in this metric thanks to its battery that just Keeps. Going. Alongside its insanely short recharge time, it makes for a winning product. The Bosch GSR18V-400B12 and DeWalt Atomic DCD794D1 both sit just above average in the aforementioned cycles, and both took about an hour or less to charge fully. Showing nearly identical results, the Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V completed seven full cycles and 14 screws into the 8th round before running out of juice and could be fully charged in 63 minutes. The Black+Decker 12V BDCDD12C and the Avid Power 20V Max ACD316 performed quite poorly in our battery life tests, and we don't recommend them for long-lasting projects.
Having a second battery on charge while you're using your drill can help you avoid downtime during your project. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Ease of Use
The remaining contribution of each model's total score came from our Convenience metric. We rated and scored all the factors that should make these products easier to use (although we found they're not always as helpful as they should be). We examined every key feature, including chuck size, ease of swapping batteries and belt clips, overall weight, lights, and battery indicators. The chart below shows our scoring breakdown for several of these submetrics.
One of the most notable and unique attributes we found throughout our entire lineup was the Milwaukee M18 Fuel's auto-stop lock feature. Integrated into this intelligently designed drill is a remarkable safety feature that automatically shuts off the tool whenever it experiences a noticeable jerk, catch, or bind. This can occur often when drilling with larger bits through tough materials, and this additional design can help save wrists, elbows, and sometimes shoulders.
The most interesting feature we found was the M18's integrated auto stop lock, adding safety to an already amazing tool. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Most devices in our testing group have two different speed/torque operating settings, and all have integrated work lights, which are standard on most drills today. However, the location and strength of the light vary between drills and may matter if you need high visibility in dimly lit spaces. Leading the charge are the DeWalt Atomic 20V DCD794D1 and Ryobi One+ PBLDD02K1, all of which feature outstanding LED lights that illuminate even the darkest attics or crawl spaces. Similarly, the Dewalt Xtreme 12V DCD703F1 has well-placed lights that produce an even brightness across the work surface. On the other hand, the light on the Craftsman CMCD700C1 isn't our favorite — if you're in a pinch, it will work, but supplemental lighting will be appreciated. Belt clips and battery indicators are hit or miss, so if these convenience features matter to you, take a close look at the specifications of the drill you're considering.
The Rigid 18V includes a number of convenient features, including a nice belt clip, an easily changeable battery, and a relatively bright light.
Although not always the case, 5-in-1 models have the added benefit of being much lighter weight than their burlier counterparts and can be less fatiguing on the arm over time. At 1.53 pounds, the Avid Power 20V Max ACD316 is the lightest drill in our lineup and is a 20V model. However, it performed so poorly overall that we can't recommend it based on weight alone. Behind the Avid, all seven of our 12V models outperformed the other drills in weight, with the 1.65-pound Bosch 12V Flexiclick 5-in-1 and the 1.96-pound Milwaukee M12 Fuel Installation taking two of the top spots.
For 5-in-1 models, the ease of changing attachments and the versatility of these angle-changing attachments also play a role. Of this group, the Dewalt Xtreme 12V 5-In-1 DCD703F1 proved to be a better drill and driver than both the BOSCH 12V Flexiclick 5-In-1 and the Milwaukee M12 FUEL, but all three 5-in-1 12-volt models outshine every other drill we tested for convenience. In addition to angle-changing heads, every model accepts standard ⅜ in hex shanks, so you'll have the same feel, make use of the same bits you may already have for your bulkier, higher-voltage tools, and use them to reach normally unreachable spaces. However, if you plan on getting into some heavier-duty projects, you may value a 1/2" chuck size that many higher-voltage drills offer.
Angle changing heads in compact 5-in-1 models are unparalleled in their ability to work in tight spaces. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Suppose you're not looking for a 5-in-1. Perhaps you don't think you'll use the angle-changing attachments often, or maybe you simply need more raw power and larger maximum chuck sizes. The DeWalt Atomic DCD794D1 is stuffed with handy attributes, from their aforementioned lights, to full 1/2 in chucks, belt hooks, dual speed settings, and battery indicators all help their case, however they do weigh over 3 pounds and can weigh down a bit, the Makita XFD14Z, and the Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V all have a chuck that can expand up to ½" as well.
At the end of the day, it is hard to beat the pure usability of compact 5-in-1 12V models, especially if most of your drilling needs involve light-duty DIY or home projects. The smaller size, lighter weight, and angle-changing attachments make working in tight or overhead spaces a breeze. While they may not be as powerful as the 12V or 20V models on the market, they can reach places that larger, more powerful models cannot. In the case of the top-performing Dewalt Xtreme 12V 5-In-1 DCD703F1, they can sometimes rival the performance of more powerful models for shorter durations.
An easy plug-and-play assembly of the different attachments included with the Dewalt Xtreme makes it a top scorer for convenience. Credit: Abriah Wofford
How to Choose the Best Drill For You
Whether you have a big home project coming up or need to find the perfect drill for the job site, we've got you covered. We've come up with four key buying considerations, including features, drill type, and budget, to help you find the best drill for you.
If you're eager to start your next project but hesitant about choosing the right drill, consider the appropriate size and power for the job. Some folks may only need a drill for small tasks, such as drilling holes for pictures and shelves, while others do extensive work on decks and steel. Battery voltage is directly related to power, so the higher the voltage, the more power a drill will have. For smaller tasks and more compact operation, drills under 12V will suffice; for more intensive drilling and heavy-duty jobs, 18V or higher is recommended. Chuck sizes are another variable to consider when using your product. The most common sizes are 3/8" and 1/2"; the smaller chuck size can handle common household tasks, while the larger is intended for heavier applications.
Features such as a reverse switch and different speed ranges can be especially useful for longer jobs and consistent use. Other features, such as a keyless chuck, make it easy to swap bits of different sizes quickly. This is a subtle contrast on paper, but it makes a big difference in application when switching back and forth between drill and driver bits repeatedly. If the product is not keyless, it requires a tool to tighten or loosen. Most drills on the market today are keyless, but we suggest double-checking to avoid this inconvenience.
The clutch sets the torque level you require for your project. To help you not strip a screw or drive too far into the material you're working with, a variable clutch is the answer. The grip is another important aspect of a good drill, helping with proper hand pressure and accurate bit placement. A side handle adds reassurance for tougher jobs that require more effort. A good light can also help make things easier and safer, especially when working in small areas where overhead lights can't cut it.
Lastly, we name a few bonus extras we've learned over the years of exhaustive testing. They're not dealbreakers, but they're worth noting if they might help for your specific needs. A built-in level is a nice perk for beginner DIYers, giving you reassurance when putting up those shelves or other household items. A magnetic screw holder provides storage right at the source. Over the years, small bits can travel and get lost. This added storage area ensures you will have what you need when you're ready for it. To round everything off, a nice bag or case can help keep everything together, especially as you build your arsenal and accumulate more batteries and bits.
A drill with adequate battery life and fast charging can be especially useful for folks on job sites and for extended drill use. Also, consider options that offer multiple batteries so you can quickly swap between recharges. Larger batteries also increase the weight of your drill and reduce its portability. Finding a balance between battery life and size/weight is a good goal for most weekend DIYers and home project undertakers.
You may notice some drills advertised as brushless. Put simply, a brushless drill uses electrical circuits instead of physical carbon brushes to control the motor's current. The advantages of a brushless drill include less friction, resulting in higher torque and longer battery and motor life. If you use your drill every day, a brushless drill may be worth the extra cost, but if you only need a drill for occasional use, a brushed drill will be plenty sufficient.
Battery life is an essential aspect of a quality drill. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Are you driving screws, or drilling holes in steel? The most useful drill will closely match the type of work you feel comfortable performing. Credit: Abriah Wofford
A brushless drill is a wise idea for heavy-duty use. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Conclusion
Whether you are a professional looking for a top-tier tool or a beginner looking for the bare minimum to get started, this side-by-side comparison of the best drills will help you find the perfect tool to match your project requirements and budget.
