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If you're in search of a cordless drill driver and battery combo that can do it all, and you don't already have a preferred tool brand, then we strongly urge you to consider the Kobalt XTR 24-volt 1/2-in. This model shines in our two most important testing metrics: drilling and driving. It was able to cut a 5-inch hole in our solid core testing door in just 17 seconds, and it drove a lag screw to the full 5-inch depth with ease. With a max chuck of 1/2" and 1,200 in-lbs of reported max torque, the Kobalt can handle almost anything you throw at it. Our testers were highly impressed, using phrases like “Beast mode!” and “Absolutely demolished it” to describe the boost of power we experienced during our drilling and driving tests. We also appreciate that it includes a battery and charger at a price point that other brands charge for a bare tool.
In addition to great performance and a budget-friendly price for a complete kit, the batteries offer a lot of life before needing to be recharged, driving over 140 screws and drilling 26 holes before running dead in our tests. Also worth noting is that there are many Kobalt 24V battery-compatible tools for when you are looking at expanding the capabilities of your workspace or garage shop. While the Kobalt XTR 24-volt is a top recommendation, it is a little heavier and bulkier than other top models, weighing just over 4 lbs. The DeWalt 20V Max Compact DCD777C2 cuts almost a pound off in comparison and would be a good alternative that still performed valiantly in our tests. However, the extra weight in the Kobalt is carried mostly in the battery, so if you want a heavy-duty drill that doesn't need a lot of downtime, this could be the one for you.
If you're on the hunt for a burly cordless tool and you are okay with buying a battery separately, then the Milwaukee M18 FUEL is a prime candidate. This drill has a 1,200 in-lbs reported max torque, making it great for heavy-duty applications and offering more than enough drilling and driving power for almost every task imaginable. Our testers felt “much more comfortable the whole way through” during the 3" screw tests when compared to others, and this model crushed it in our lag screw test, driving the beefy fastener to its full 5" depth. We feel satisfied knowing this tool will lend confidence and consistency to your work day. It performed nearly as well in our drilling metric; when we attached our 5-inch hole saw bit, the M18 could drill through a solid core door in just 15 seconds. The battery is also efficient as it bores more holes and drives in more screws than other models using the same-capacity battery and has one of the shortest charge times to boot, taking just 25 minutes to fully refuel.
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL is noticeably heavy, weighing quite a bit more than other contenders at just over 4 lbs. However, this is not an unusual weight for a tool of this caliber. Our bigger gripe is that it lands on the pricier end of the spectrum, not even counting the battery or charger. Those who don't plan on using a drill regularly or might not require the drilling and driving power for heavy-duty applications may find other options more suitable for their budget. While the M18 FUEL is the best model we tested from a pure performance perspective, the tool alone costs nearly as much as the entire Kobalt XTR 24-volt kit, which offers comparable performance while including a battery and charger. However, if you have other Milwaukee tools (and already own 1-2 batteries in this system), the M18 FUEL is an unstoppable drill to your lineup.
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel is a heavy-duty drill and a great performer all-around for those who want a drill that can tackle literally anything that comes its way.
The Craftsman V20 1/2-In Drill/Driver is one of the less expensive options, but it holds its own against tools that cost quite a bit more. It did surprisingly well in some of our toughest tests, boring holes up to 5" in diameter without issue and offering plenty of control when it came to setting countersunk 3" deck screws to the appropriate depth. While it couldn't drive a lag bolt to the full depth, it got most of the way there, reaching 4.37 in. Our testing team claims, “It isn't overly heavy and would be a great complement to the occasional DIYer or a homeowner's toolbox,” provided you don't have any super burly jobs to work through. It also did relatively well in our convenience testing, offering an easy battery change, a well-placed battery life indicator, and a max chuck of 1/2", so you aren't restricted to using only smaller bit sizes.
The Craftsman V20 1/2-In Drill/Driver isn't our top recommendation if you are shopping on a budget and looking to use this tool as the foundation for your eventual cordless tool collection. We don't think the library of compatible tools is as popular or readily available as other battery systems, and it's much smaller overall. Combined with the fact that you usually only get a single battery to use across multiple tools, we suggest investing a bit more if you plan to procure more cordless versions of your favorite tools in the future. Despite that, we were impressed with the performance of the Craftsman given its affordable nature and would readily recommend it if you're planning to buy only a drill. Of course, if the craftsman is still a little outside your budget, you might consider the even more affordable Black+Decker 20V Max Drill/Driver LDX120C. The Black+Decker also features a compact design with a 20V boost to match. However, it follows in the shadow of the Craftsman, and if you can spare the extra couple of bucks, the Craftsman is a good purchase that won't drain your pockets.
If you only want to do light-duty DIY projects around your home and don't need to invest in a beefy, professional-grade drill, check out the Black+Decker 20V Max Drill/Driver LDX120C. This tool costs significantly less than the top models and has enough power for most tasks. It works at a slower pace but was able to drive 3" deck screws flush into our double-stacked 2x10s. At just over 2 1/2 lbs, it's lightweight and easy to handle, making it the perfect option for beginners or entry-level DIYers. Although it has a longer charge time, it has sufficient battery life to handle home tasks like hanging a coat rack or putting together new furniture, and swapping out the battery is relatively easy. Overall, it is very convenient and user-friendly, and it comes in a compact form that is easy to stash in a drawer.
In terms of pure power, the Black+Decker 20V Max Drill/Driver LDX120C is severely deficient and pales compared to premium models. We found the performance highly unimpressive when using a larger 5" hole saw, and it could only drive in the big lag bolt to 3.19" out of the full 5". If prolonging its life is important, we can't say we recommend using this model for either of these types of tasks. Overall, we felt it was less durable than other drills. While it is not the best for heavy-duty applications, it is our top recommendation if you want a bare-bones drill on a tight budget. If you can increase your budget a bit, look at the better but still affordable Craftsman V20 1/2-In. Drill/Driver Kit CMCD700C1.
If you are shopping on a budget and like the pistol grip style and compact size of a 12-volt drill, then the Bosch 12V Max Drill/Driver Kit PS31-2A is a fantastic option for you. This model is a great option for the average homeowner who might want to undertake some DIY or home improvement projects but isn't doing any major renovations on their own. This pint-sized device packs plenty of punch, doing well in our drilling and driving evaluations. It was able to drill into a solid core door with a 5" hole saw in 70 seconds. This is slightly below average for the entire group, but it is one of the best times among the 12V models we tested. All of this comes in a neat little package that is highly intuitive and convenient to operate. This handy cordless is lightweight (we measured it at 2.17 lbs), ergonomic, and a great addition to any DIYer's arsenal. Being smaller and lighter, this tool fits nicely into tight and dark spaces that larger tools cannot access, and it doesn't take up as much space on a tool bench.
Unfortunately, the Bosch PS31-2A can't quite compare to the drilling and driving performance of the top-tier, higher voltage tools. The 12-volt Bosch struggled to drive the ½" lag screw into its full 5" depth and complained the whole time. Our testers noted it “would get hot after drilling the second hole” during our one-inch spade bit testing, reminding us that this device is designed for more moderate projects. The battery life here is also somewhat lackluster, with a longer charge time of 85 minutes. While a few other 12-volt models outperform the Bosch overall, we found the price of the Bosch to be enticing, making this Bosch a good bargain for a tool that is more than capable of handling light-duty tasks and house projects. If you can increase your budget while searching for a 12-volt drill driver, we recommend looking at the superior DeWalt 20V Max Compact Drill/Driver Kit DCD771C2. The Dewalt is an oldie but goodie, and the 771C2 has latched onto the market for the past few years, earning a high count in online reviews and positives to match. We recently brought back this model into our review because everyone loves it so much for its great drilling power and flawless driving abilities. However, it is more expensive, so if you'd like to stick to your budget, the Bosch is a good choice.
The DeWalt 20V Max Compact Brushless Drill/Driver DCD777C2 is a complete DeWalt kit that includes two older DeWalt style 1.5AH batteries and chargers, while newer kits include 2 AH batteries. The tool is capable of a wide range of light and heavy-duty tasks and is a great way to acquire a drill driver and additional batteries that will fit a wide range of cordless DeWalt tools. Beyond these perks, it is just a great and highly functional tool. When put to work against a solid core door with a 5" hole saw in our main drilling evaluation, our testers said that “it cut through like butter,” taking just 17 seconds to cut all the way through the material. Likewise, it performed flawlessly in our driving tests, driving a 5" lag bolt to its full depth. In our three-inch screw evaluation, our testers were elated that they had “no problems tightening up even with the screw flush.” It is a good value for current DeWalt tool owners and worth considering for new tool buyers, homeowners, or those setting up a garage workshop.
While we liked the DeWalt 20V Max DCD777C2, the one area we felt it was lacking was in its battery life. It didn't perform as well with the included 1.5 AH batteries as other models using 2.0 AH batteries, only lasting through 5 sets of our battery testing, compared to 9+ sets that other drills like the Makita 18V LXT 1/2" Driver-Drill XFD14Z can handle. It also took a little over an hour to charge back to full capacity, which isn't the longest time we measure, but it is longer than average for the group. As such, we'd encourage those who aren't already invested in the DeWalt family of tools to consider other newer options or other brands altogether. The Kobalt XTR 24-volt kit provides great performance, a 2 AH battery, compatibility with a wide range of Kobalt brand tools, and a great value for those starting out. However, if you are loyal to Dewalt and are okay with swapping batteries more often (a task that was actually quite easy when tested for our convenience metric), the DeWalt DCD777C2 is a solid choice.
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 where we needed to reach overhead or fit into cramped environments, such as attics or crawlspaces. When used in combination with various attachments, it allows for significant adjustments in drilling angles and positions, greatly enhancing convenience when working in tight or obstructed spaces. But don't let the compact size fool you. Our testers felt it was “effortless compared to the other 5-in-1s,” which can't always stand up to the power offered by 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.
Although the Dewalt Xtreme 12V 5-In-1 Drill Driver Kit proved to be a great drill driver, it has some shortcomings. The kit only includes one battery, as opposed to the two that are typically included with 12V models from competing brands, and In terms of battery life, it was only able to make it through 4 rounds of our battery testing routine before petering out halfway through the 5th, yet 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 is seen on more powerful models, as opposed to the ⅜ inch chuck. For a step up in performance from DeWalt, we suggest you look at the DeWalt 20V Max Compact Drill/Driver Kit DCD771C2. 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 and capable model.
While it may not be the best for big jobs, this 5-in-1 DeWalt model has an element of convenience that is hard to beat.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
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Here's a look at one of our testing boards with the full-spread of the bits we used in our drilling and driving tests.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
How We Test Drills
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 you 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 with other contractors and professionals, as well as other dedicated DIYers, to get their opinions on picking out the drills that had the most potential and designing 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).
Our drill testing is divided into four rating metrics:
Drilling tests (35% of total score weighting)
Driving tests (35% weighting)
Battery Life tests (20% weighting)
Convenience tests (10% weighting)
Why Trust GearLab
Our testing team includes Austin Palmer, David Wise, and Matt Spencer. Austin has extensive experience using tools in both an industrial and DIY setting, having worked on an oil rig and undertaking extensive renovations on his own home. 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 also has apprenticed and assisted his dad on various job sites- a general contractor for over 30 years. Matt is currently studying engineering and has worked on GearLab projects such as pressure washers and other outdoor tools.
Analysis and Test Results
To see which model is the best of the best, we compared specifications of all the top tools around, then bought the most compelling 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 — with our results discussed below.
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 should start to despair if you are on a tight budget because many people don't need the drilling or driving performance the premium products offer. Even some of the cheapest models in our test offer enough power for homeowners without many DIY aspirations. The Black+Decker LDX120C is our top recommendation for searching for a drill without spending a ton. If you do a reasonable number of DIY and home improvement projects but still want to save some cash, then you should consider the Craftsman CMCD700C1 or the Bosch PS31-2A. These models cost a bit more but offer better overall performance than the LDX120C. If you are a serious DIYer or use tools professionally, you will want to shop in the higher echelon of these tools. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL is a favorite, 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.
1" spade bit testing with the M12 Fuel.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Drilling
This metric is based on how each product fared over the course of three separate tests: drilling through steel, drilling holes with a paddle bit, and using a 5-inch hole saw through a solid-core door. This 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 each tool, 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 halfway through in order to get the job done. The less time each drill took, the better it scored in this test.
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2" Driver earned high marks in this metric, cutting through our testing in just 15 seconds. A newly tested model, the Kobalt XTR 24-volt 1/2-in Keyless Brushless Cordless Drill KXDD 1424A-03 followed suit with an almost equally impressive performance, coming in at 17 seconds. The DeWalt 20V Max Compact Brushless also had a respectable time of 17 seconds, although it required more use of a low-speed high torque setting and did not perform all the tasks as swiftly. The Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V also made quick work with the hole saw, chomping through the door faster than average with a measured time of 20 seconds. The DeWalt Atomic performed very inconsistently during the 5" hole saw test, boring into the door effortlessly in one trial and then binding up and taking almost twice as long in others. We aren't entirely sure what caused this inconsistency, but it happened often enough to be mildly concerning.
Multiple models tested in a 5 inch hole saw test.
Credit: Austin Palmer
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 the equivalent of a 16 gauge steel sheet. To award points to each drill model, we measured the time it took each tool to accomplish these drilling tasks and how much they struggled while doing so.
Small Hole Drilling Performance
Product
1" Spade bit
16ga Steel
Makita 18V LXT XFD14Z
10.0
10.0
Milwaukee M18 Fuel
10.0
9.4
DeWalt Atomic 20V DCD708C2
9.0
9.0
Kobalt XTR 24V KXDD 1424A-03
8.0
10.0
DeWalt 20V DCD777C2
9.0
9.0
Ryobi PBLDD01
8.0
9.4
Ridgid 18V R8701
7.5
9.4
Milwaukee M18 2606
9.0
7.8
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
Ridgid R86001
4.0
9.0
Craftsman V20 CMCD700C1
5.0
7.8
Porter-Cable 20V PCCK607LB
5.0
7.4
Bosch 12V PS31-2A
5.0
6.6
Workpro 20V
3.0
5.4
DeWalt 12V DCD710S2
4.0
3.0
Black+Decker 20V LDX120C
3.0
3.6
Avid Power 20V Max ACD316
2.0
2.4
Black+Decker 12V BDCDD12C
1.0
1.0
The Makita 18V LXT 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 and easy work of both the sheet metal and the 2x12, but was also able to cut a 5" hole in our testing door without breaking a sweat. The overall drilling score of the Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V was boosted a bit 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 of a struggle, provided that you are in the appropriate gear setting. When we used twist bits to drill through sheet metal, it was quite efficient with the ¼" size (we clocked it at 1 second) but slowed down to 4 or 5 seconds with a ½" bit.
A very capable 12-volt makes swift work of 1 inch holes.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
The DeWalt Atomic nearly matched the performance of the aforementioned models at drilling through the steel with the two sizes of twist drills, quickly and easily making holes with little to no struggle at all. 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 Compact Drill/Driver Kit DCD771C2 deserves a mention for its solid performance as well. This tool made quick work of making ¼" and ½" holes in sheet metal and wooden materials, truly shining when using the spade bit.
The DeWalt Atomic easily drilled through dimensional lumber with larger twist drills and spade bits.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
If you're in the market for a compact 12-volt drill, the Dewalt Xtreme 12V 5-In-1 Drill Driver Kit DCD703F1 exhibited impressive and well-balanced results in our drilling tests, especially considering its lighter and more compact design. Its drilling performance rivaled and even outcompeted a few of the less performant higher voltage models we tested, proving it is not only a convenient and compact model but a very capable one also. The BOSCH 12V Flexiclick 5-In-1 Drill Driver System GSR12V-300FCB22 and the Milwaukee M12 FUEL Installation Drill Driver Kit 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 the tasks that are better handled by more powerful models.
In the end, our team saw really strong performance from the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2" Drill Driver. It excelled all around in our drilling challenges and proved its ability to complete a range of difficult tasks, easily and swiftly drilling 5-inch holes with a hole saw, 1-inch holes with a spade bit, and multiple sizes of holes in sheet steel, with the majority of work performed on the high-speed, low torque setting. However, with some seriously strong competitors, the margin was narrow. The DeWalt DCD777C2 also delivered top-notch drilling performance right behind the M18 Fuel. It delivered fast results in our hole saw test, powering through the door like a hot knife through butter. We didn't even have to shift into the lower gear.
This 12V model works great for a lower-voltage model.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Driving
Our next series of evaluations focused on how well these devices performed at driving fasteners. This metric is comprised of two different tests: 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 off with the appropriate pilot hole and noted the time it took and whether we had to change settings at all. Not all of the drills were able to finish the job, so for further comparison, we measured the depth to which each model was able to drive the screw and gave higher scores to those that were able to get the screw closest to the full 5 inches.
Along with a few others, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2", the DeWalt 20V Max DCD771C2, and the DeWalt 20V Max DCD777C2 were the three top-performing drills in this test, having no issues driving the lag bolt to its full 5-inch depth. When we performed the lag test with the Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V, it was able to drive the screw head about ¼" short of all the way to the board without stopping. With multiple trigger pulls, the it was able to drive the lag the rest of the way. Luckily for Ryobi, it was very efficient at driving 3" 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.
We measured the distance each model left to fully drive down a 5-inch lag screw to show you comparable results.
Credit: Austin Palmer
To compare the performance of each drill when using wood screws, we examined how quickly and easily each tool drove the screws into a pair of stacked dimensional lumber boards, checking if 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 the relative speed and consistency of each model.
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, alongside the Makita 18V LXT and the DeWalt 20V DCD771C2. The Kobalt XTR 24-volt produced scores that were nothing to sniff at either. None of these models struggled to set 3-inch decking screws, and all 4 felt very controlled. The Milwaukee M18 (non-FUEL version) performed nearly as well as the above models but is slightly inferior when setting countersunk screws flush to a surface. It didn't struggle while driving, but it isn't the fastest.
Driving Performance
Product
Lag Screw
3" Screw
Milwaukee M18 Fuel
10.0
10.0
DeWalt 20V DCD771C2
10.0
10.0
Makita 18V LXT XFD14Z
10.0
10.0
Kobalt XTR 24V KXDD 1424A-03
9.0
10.0
DeWalt 20V DCD777C2
9.0
10.0
Ryobi PBLDD01
8.0
10.0
Milwaukee M18 2606
9.0
9.0
Porter-Cable 20V PCCK607LB
7.0
9.0
DeWalt Atomic 20V DCD708C2
6.0
10.0
Craftsman V20 CMCD700C1
5.0
8.0
Dewalt Xtreme 12V DCD703F1
5.0
7.0
Ridgid 18V R8701
5.0
6.5
DeWalt DCD701F2 Xtreme 12V
4.0
7.0
Ridgid R86001
5.0
6.0
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
DeWalt 12V DCD710S2
4.0
4.0
Black+Decker 20V LDX120C
2.0
5.0
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 Compact Drill/Driver Kit DCD771C2, and the Makita XFD14Z 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 the screws to their full depth without any difficulties, even the giant lag screw. We also love how these tools offer plenty of control to set the countersunk heads to their proper depth. Both the Kobalt XTR 24-volt KXDD 1424A-03 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 did the best of the 12-volt cordless drills in the drilling metric, holding its own against the higher voltage models when driving standard screws, matching their speed, and easily setting the 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 Installation 2505-22 both exhibited reliable driving performances 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 Xtreme did rival the performance of a few higher voltage models.
Many drills and many chargers.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Battery Life
After assessing drilling and driving performance, we next ranked and compared the battery performance of each of these cordless tools. 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 the number of sets each model was able to complete until 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
Milwaukee M18 Fuel
9.6
Makita 18V LXT XFD14Z
9.5
Ridgid 18V R8701
9.4
Kobalt XTR 24V KXDD 1424A-03
8.8
Bosch 18V GSR18V-400B12
8.8
Ryobi PBLDD01
7.5
DeWalt Atomic 20V DCD708C2
7.4
Porter-Cable 20V PCCK607LB
6.6
DeWalt 20V DCD777C2
5.0
Milwaukee M18 2606
4.8
Craftsman V20 CMCD700C1
4.7
Ridgid R86001
4.6
DeWalt DCD701F2 Xtreme 12V
4.3
DeWalt 20V DCD771C2
4.1
Black+Decker 20V LDX120C
3.6
Bosch 12V PS31-2A
3.6
BOSCH 12V GSR12V-300FCB22
3.6
Dewalt Xtreme 12V DCD703F1
3.6
Workpro 20V
3.5
Milwaukee M12 Fuel 2505-22
2.8
Avid Power 20V Max ACD316
2.7
DeWalt 12V DCD710S2
2.0
Black+Decker 12V BDCDD12C
1.6
We got wildly varied results between different models during this test, with some completing nearly 10 sets and others struggling to make it through 2. Both the Milwaukee M18 FUEL and the Makita XFD14Z did exceptionally well in this metric. They completed nine cycles and a partial tenth before the battery was exhausted. We used a two-amp-hour battery for both of these models during this test. We also liked that both of these battery brands charged very quickly, with the Milwaukee taking 25 minutes and the Makita taking 23 minutes. The Ridgid 18V R8701 followed close behind, also completing a little over 9 sets.
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 for the charging test to compare times. The test for this is simple: start the time when we plug in the battery to charge, and stop it when the battery indicates that it is fully charged. If you are working on an ongoing project, recharge time can be a big deal, dictating how much downtime you will 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, especially for being an 18V battery. It is worth mentioning that while the best 12 volts can't compete with the best 18 or 20 volts in terms of 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 Extreme 12V DCD701F2. Additionally, many of the compact 12-volt model drill driver kits, like the Milwaukee M12 Fuel 2505-22, include two batteries, meaning you will be able to handle most home and DIY tasks with little to no downtime, even if the batteries don't last as long.
After combining scores for both tests to get our battery life rating, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2" Driver 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 Ridgid 18V R8701 also earned high marks overall despite its slightly longer charge time. The DeWalt Atomic sits just above average, making it through a respectable seven full cycles and 12 screws into the 8th before dying, and a completely dead battery took 68 minutes to fully recharge in our test. 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 fully charge in 63 minutes. The Black+Decker 12V 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
Convenience
The remaining contribution of each model's total score came from convenience. 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 a total of 6 key features, including the size of the chuck, the ease of swapping batteries, belt clips, overall weight, lights, and battery indicators. The chart below shows our scoring breakdown for 4 of these 6 key submetrics.
Convenience Feature Ratings
Product
Belt Clip
Light
Battery Change
Battery Indicator
Dewalt Xtreme 12V DCD703F1
7.0
8.0
7.0
7.0
Ridgid 18V R8701
7.0
6.5
8.0
7.0
Ryobi PBLDD01
5.0
7.0
9.0
7.0
Porter-Cable 20V PCCK607LB
7.0
8.0
6.0
7.0
DeWalt DCD701F2 Xtreme 12V
7.0
7.0
6.0
7.0
DeWalt Atomic 20V DCD708C2
7.0
8.0
8.0
3.0
Bosch 18V GSR18V-400B12
7.0
6.0
6.0
7.0
Milwaukee M18 Fuel
7.0
7.0
5.0
7.0
Kobalt XTR 24V KXDD 1424A-03
7.0
6.5
5.0
7.0
Ridgid R86001
5.0
6.0
7.0
7.0
Milwaukee M12 Fuel 2505-22
7.0
6.0
5.0
7.0
Makita 18V LXT XFD14Z
7.0
6.0
4.0
7.0
BOSCH 12V GSR12V-300FCB22
7.0
5.0
5.0
7.0
Avid Power 20V Max ACD316
3.0
6.0
8.0
7.0
Craftsman V20 CMCD700C1
5.0
4.0
7.0
7.0
Milwaukee M18 2606
5.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
DeWalt 20V DCD777C2
5.0
5.0
9.0
3.0
Bosch 12V PS31-2A
3.0
5.0
7.0
7.0
DeWalt 20V DCD771C2
5.0
5.0
9.0
3.0
Workpro 20V
7.0
2.0
7.0
5.0
DeWalt 12V DCD710S2
7.0
4.0
3.0
3.0
Black+Decker 20V LDX120C
3.0
4.0
5.0
3.0
Black+Decker 12V BDCDD12C
3.0
6.0
3.0
3.0
Most of the devices in our testing group have two different speed/torque operating settings and all of them integrated work lights, which are common features on most drills today. However, the location and strength of the light varies between drills, and may be important to note if you need high visibility to work in dimly lit spaces. The Dewalt Xtreme 12V DCD703F1 and the Porter-Cable 20V Max 1/2 In. PCCK607LB both have 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 a hit or miss, so if these convenience features are important to you, be sure to take a detailed look at the specs on the drill you're checking out.
We liked drills that had good lighting and a belt clip.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
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 happens to be a 20V model. However, it performed so poorly overall that we can't recommend it based on its weight alone. Behind the Avid, all 7 of our 12V models tested beat out the other drills when it comes to 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.
In the case of 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 when it comes to 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. Maybe you don't think you'd use the angle-changing attachments very often, or maybe you simply need more raw power and larger max chuck sizes. In that case, a notable performer that is not a 12V model is the Ridgid 18V 1/2 in R8701. This model did well in all of our convenience tests and has the added benefits of having a larger max chuck and more drilling power. The Porter-Cable 20V Max 1/2 In. Drill/Driver Kit PCCK607LB also stood out for being chock full of handy features. They both have a maximum chuck size of ½", built-in LEDs, a belt clip, a battery level indicator, two different speeds, and neither is overly heavy or bulky. The Atomic DCD708C2, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL, 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 useability 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 of these drills make working in tight or overhead spaces a breeze. While they may not be as powerful as the 12V or 20V models, they can reach places larger, more powerful models can not. And in the case of the top performing Dewalt Xtreme 12V 5-In-1 DCD703F1, they can even 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 find the best drill for you.
A brushless drill is a wise idea for heavy-duty use.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
What Type of Work Do You Do?
For those eager to get a start on their next project but want to find the right drill for the job, consider the appropriate size and power of potential drills. Some folks may only need a drill for small tasks, such as drilling holes for pictures and shelves, while others are doing extensive work on decks and steel. Battery voltage coincides with 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 with your usage. The most common sizes are 3/8" and 1/2", where the smaller chuck size can tackle common tasks around the house, and the larger is intended for heavier applications.
A good first step to finding the right drill comes down to the type of work you have planned or typically feel comfortable with.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
What Features to Look For?
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, help accommodate different-sized bits quickly and easily. 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 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 that helps with proper hand pressure and accurate bit placement. A side handle is an added reassurance for those tougher jobs that require more effort from you. 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 something to note if you think it might help for your specific purposes. 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. We know that over the years, small bits can tend to 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 to further keep everything together, especially when you start to build your arsenal and begin accumulating more batteries and bits.
A shining light in dark work areas can not only help you complete the job but also make it safer.
Credit: Austin Palmer
Is Battery Life Important to You?
A drill with adequate battery life and fast charging can be especially useful for folks on job sites and extended drill use. Also, consider options that offer multiple batteries as a way to quickly swap between recharges. It's worth noting that larger batteries will also increase the weight of your drill and decrease its portability. Finding a balance between battery life and size/weight is a good goal for the majority of weekend DIYers and home project undertakers.
Battery life is an essential aspect of a quality drill.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Does Brushless Matter?
You may notice some drills advertised as brushless. Put simply, a brushless drill uses electrical circuits instead of physical carbon brushes to control the current of the motor. 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, then a brushless drill may be worth the extra price, but if you only need a drill for occasional use, then a brushed drill will be plenty sufficient.
