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Drills aren't only for trade workers and handymen — having a drill at home can make hanging pictures, a quick repair, or assembling that new piece of furniture a much more efficient and enjoyable task than using hand tools.
We purchased and tested 22 drills side by side. Our team of DIY homeowners, mechanical engineers, and former industrial workers used real-world tests to compare the best drills on the market.
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.
If you're shopping on a tighter budget, the Craftsman V20 1/2-In Drill/Driver has impressive power performance for its size, but a shorter battery life compared to more expensive options.
Editor's Note: We updated this review on August 4th, 2025, to add new models from Milwaukee, Dewalt, Kobalt, and Ryobi.
If you're in the market for a top-of-the-line drill, with enough muscle to please DIYers and working professionals, then the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2" Drill/Driver 2903-20 is our recommendation. 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 would hope for in any high-level drill, such as a light, belt clip, 2-speed control, and premium handle for ultimate ease and functionality, from home to the jobsite.
SPECIFICATIONS
Five Inch Hole Saw Test
11 seconds
Lag Screw Test
5.0 in
Manufacturer Peak Torque
1400 in-lbs
Measured Charge Time
25 min
Measured Weight
4.2 lb
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 by any means, and we didn't mind its load 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 isn't using a drill regularly or doesn't require 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 comes with an included 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 Atomic 20-Volt Max Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Drill Driver DCD794B is a complete DeWalt kit that includes a 2 amp-hour battery, charger, belt hook, and carrying bag to go with this high-powered compact drill. It is capable of a myriad of tasks, ranging from miniature to massive. This heavy-duty unit is a great way to acquire a drill driver and additional batteries that fit a wide array of cordless DeWalt tools. We found that this tiny, torqued machine is highly functional when it comes to drilling and driving. During our 1" spade test against a stack of 2x lumber, our lead tester noted that “it trucked on through nice and smooth. 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. This excellently small unit also has 15 different clutch positions, allowing for superior control when it comes to sinking screw heads flush or slightly embedding them. Once we put the battery into our functional test of 16 screws and three holes, it lasted for a better-than-average 8.5 cycles. Thanks to a battery level indicator, we were also able to check its charge level throughout the task. If you ever find yourself working in a less-than-adequately lit environment, there's an integrated LED light.
SPECIFICATIONS
Five Inch Hole Saw Test
21 seconds
Lag Screw Test
4.8 in
Manufacturer Peak Torque
404 UWO
Measured Charge Time
47 min
Measured Weight
3.2 lb
One of the few unfortunate downsides we found is in driving performance. When set up against fully tapping a 5" lag screw into a pre-pilot drilled piece of wood, the Atomic just didn't quite stand up to the challenge. It was able to reduce the lag by about an inch before we had to lower our speed setting and engage the clutch. It finally began working, but not without strain, and once we got near the bottom, we lost any more fetch. The lag bolt ended up sticking ¼" above being flush. When faced with drilling a 5" hole through a solid wooden door, the Atomic again had a minor issue as the holesaw kept binding up. With a bit of finesse, they noted that they “can't be as aggressive and need to take a little more care when drilling a big hole”. Despite these slight drawbacks, this radically compact and high-end kit is a good value and worth consideration for both freshly sprouted and well-seasoned tool buyers.
The Craftsman V20 1/2-In Drill/Driver CMCD700C1 is one of the less expensive options on the market, 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. 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 assessment, 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.
SPECIFICATIONS
Five Inch Hole Saw Test
55 seconds
Lag Screw Test
4.4 in
Manufacturer Peak Torque
280 in-lbs
Measured Charge Time
58 min
Measured Weight
3.4 lb
The Craftsman V20 1/2-In Drill/Driver isn't our top recommendation if you are looking to use this tool as the foundation for your eventual cordless tool collection. The library of compatible tools isn't 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 we recommend it if you're planning to buy only a drill.
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 great 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 or a drawer inside your home.
SPECIFICATIONS
Five Inch Hole Saw Test
70 seconds
Lag Screw Test
3.9 in
Manufacturer Peak Torque
265 in-lbs
Measured Charge Time
85 min
Measured Weight
2.2 lb
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. Its battery life is 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 model a good bargain for a tool that is more than capable of handling light-duty tasks and house projects.
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 to use 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.
SPECIFICATIONS
Five Inch Hole Saw Test
40 seconds
Lag Screw Test
4.1 in
Manufacturer Peak Torque
182 in-lbs
Measured Charge Time
55 min
Measured Weight
2.1 lb
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. 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. 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.
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 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, 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 also has 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 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.
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 Craftsman V20 CMCD700C1 is our top recommendation for anyone in need of 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 slightly pricier Ridgid 18V R8701 or Bosch PS31-2A. These models cost a bit more but offer better overall performance than something like the Workpro 20V.
The Milwaukee M18 may cost a bit more, but its performance left the rest of the competition in its sawdust.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
If you are a serious DIYer or use tools professionally, you will want to shop in the higher price ranges of these tools. 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 it took each tool to complete these drilling tasks and the level of struggle it encountered during the process.
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 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 and easy work of the 2x12 test, and when it came to 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 at drilling through the steel with the two sizes of twist drills, easily accomplishing 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 exhibited impressive and well-balanced results in our drilling tests, especially considering its lighter and 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 a 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 sizes of holes in sheet steel, while we performed the majority of 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, the Atomic DCD794D1 and Max DCD793B, as well as the Kobalt XTR, delivered top-notch drilling performances right behind the M18 Fuel1/2". All three of these models provided fast results in our hole saw tests, and powered through the door like hot knives through butter, while 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 is comprised of 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 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 assigned 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 ½-inch, the DeWalt 20V Max DCD771C2, DeWalt 20V Max DCD793B, 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 performed the same test with the Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V, it was able to drive 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 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. Following up the lead was the DeWalt Atomic DCD794D1, Dewalt 20V Max DCD793B, 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
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 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 the screws to their full depth without any difficulties, 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 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 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 the drilling and driving performance of each tool, we ranked and compared the battery performance of the 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 obtained wildly varied results between different 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. The Ridgid 18V R8701 closely followed, completing nearly 9.5 sets, but the battery took significantly longer to charge, at just under an hour. Following these two standouts were a handful of units which completed between 7-9 full cycles, including the Bosch GSR18V-400B12, Kobalt XTR KCDD1424A-03, DeWalt Max DCD793B, 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 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 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. It is worth mentioning that while the best 12-volt models can't compete with the best 18- or 20-volt models 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 DCD701F2 Xtreme 12V Max Brushless 3/8 in. | DeWalt Extreme 12V DCD701F2. Additionally, many compact 12-volt model drill driver kits, such as the Milwaukee M12 Fuel 2505-22, include two batteries, allowing you to 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 Ridgid 18V R8701 also earned high marks overall despite its slightly longer charge time. The Bosch GSR18V-400B12, DeWalt Max DCD793B, and DeWalt Atomic DCD794D1 all sit just above average in terms of the aforementioned cycles, and all 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
Convenience
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 the size of the chuck, 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.
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
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 of the devices in our testing group have two different speed/torque operating settings, and all of them have integrated work lights, which are standard features on most drills today. However, the location and strength of the light vary between drills, and may be important to note if you need high visibility to work in dimly lit spaces. Leading the charge are the DeWalt Atomic 20V DCD794D1, DeWalt 20V Max DCD793B, 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 and the Porter-Cable 20V 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 specifications on 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 happens to be a 20V model. However, it performed so poorly overall that we can't recommend it based solely on its weight. Behind the Avid, all seven of our 12V models tested outperformed the other drills in terms of 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. 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. In that case, a notable performer that is not a 12V model is the Ridgid 18V 1/2 in R8701. This model performed well in all our convenience tests and offers the added benefits of a larger maximum chuck and increased drilling power. The Porter-Cable 20V 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. Two nearly identically convenient drills, the DeWalt Atomic DCD794D1, and the DeWalt 20V Max DCD793B are 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 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 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 find the best drill for you.
For those eager to start their next project but hesitant about selecting 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 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", where the smaller chuck size can tackle common tasks around the house, and 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, facilitate the quick and easy accommodation of bits of different sizes. 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 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 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 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.
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.
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.
