Quick Picks
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Quick Picks: Best Drills and Drivers
Short on time? Pick one below, then jump to the full review.
Best Overall
DeWalt 20V Max Brushless
Strong balance of power and control for most home projects.
Best Value
Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless
Excellent performance per dollar for DIY users.
Best Premium
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2"
High power and durability for frequent projects.
Best Lightweight
Bosch 12V Max
Compact and easy to control for everyday repairs.
Best Ecosystem
Makita 18V LXT Brushless
Best long-term value if you plan to expand tools.
Best Budget
Black+Decker 20V Max
Affordable option for occasional home tasks.
Best Compact
Milwaukee M12 Fuel Installation
Perfect for cabinets and tight-space work.
Best 12V DeWalt
DeWalt Xtreme 12V Max
Lightweight DeWalt option for quick jobs.
Best Overall
Home Projects
Cordless
DeWalt 20V Max Brushless 1/2" Drill Driver – Best Overall for Home Projects
🏆 Editor’s Pick
Best for: homeowners and DIY users who want one reliable drill for almost every home project.
Why we like it: strong, well-balanced power with excellent control, without being bulky or overkill.
Power
20V Max brushless motor
Battery
20V Max Li-Ion platform
Chuck
1/2" metal ratcheting chuck
Feel
Balanced and comfortable for extended use
Performance in Real Home Projects
- Drills cleanly into wood, drywall, and light masonry.
- Drives long screws without stalling or cam-out.
- Good low-speed control for precise starts.
Battery, Charging, Comfort
- One battery easily covers typical DIY sessions.
- Charging speed feels reasonable for home use.
- Comfortable grip and smooth trigger control.
Pros
- Excellent balance of power and control.
- Reliable long-term build quality.
- Strong all-around performance for home projects.
Cons
- Costs more than basic budget drills.
- Overkill for very light, occasional use.
Buy this if: you want one drill to handle most home and DIY projects, value reliability, or already own DeWalt 20V batteries.
Skip this if: you only need very occasional light use or want the cheapest possible option.
Skip this if: you only need very occasional light use or want the cheapest possible option.
Check price and availability on Amazon
Tip: If you already own a DeWalt battery and charger, look for tool-only listings to save money.
Best Value
DIY Projects
Cordless
Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Drill Driver – Best Value for Money
Best for: DIY users and homeowners who want solid performance without paying premium prices.
Why we like it: strong everyday power and excellent value, plus access to the Ryobi ONE+ battery ecosystem.
Power
18V brushless motor
Battery
Ryobi ONE+ 18V Li-Ion platform
Chuck
1/2" keyless chuck
Value
Excellent performance per dollar
Performance in Real Home Projects
- Handles drilling into wood and drywall with ease.
- Drives common screws smoothly for most DIY tasks.
- Enough torque for shelves, furniture, and light renovations.
Battery, Charging, Comfort
- Battery life is strong for typical homeowner sessions.
- Works with the full Ryobi ONE+ battery lineup.
- Comfortable grip and manageable weight for longer use.
Pros
- Outstanding value for the price.
- Good balance of power and control for home use.
- Huge tool ecosystem with affordable add-ons.
Cons
- Not as refined as premium models.
- Heavier than some compact 12V options.
Buy this if: you want strong DIY performance, care about value, or plan to expand into a larger tool system.
Skip this if: you want ultra-compact size or top-tier pro durability.
Skip this if: you want ultra-compact size or top-tier pro durability.
Check price and availability on Amazon
Tip: Ryobi ONE+ batteries work across many tools, making future purchases cheaper.
Best Premium
High Power
Frequent Projects
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2" Drill Driver – Best Premium Option
Best for: homeowners who tackle frequent projects and want premium power, durability, and speed.
Why we like it: strong performance under load with a pro-grade feel, ideal when you do more than occasional light tasks.
Power
M18 Fuel (high torque, fast drilling)
Battery
Milwaukee M18 Li-Ion platform
Chuck
1/2" all-metal chuck
Build
Premium durability for long-term use
Performance in Real Home Projects
- Handles tougher drilling tasks with less bogging down.
- Strong control and speed for larger holes and denser wood.
- Great choice when you regularly push a drill harder than basic jobs.
Battery, Charging, Comfort
- Excellent runtime with larger M18 batteries for longer sessions.
- Strong ecosystem for expanding into other tools later.
- More weight than compact drills, but stable and confidence-inspiring.
Pros
- Premium power and speed under load.
- Durable build quality with an all-metal chuck.
- Excellent for frequent projects and heavier DIY work.
Cons
- Costs more than most homeowner-focused options.
- Heavier than 12V and compact drills for overhead work.
Buy this if: you do frequent projects, drill larger holes, or want a premium tool that won’t feel underpowered.
Skip this if: you mostly do light repairs or want the lightest drill possible.
Skip this if: you mostly do light repairs or want the lightest drill possible.
Check price and availability on Amazon
Tip: If you want premium performance, consider pairing it with a larger battery for longer runtime.
Best Lightweight
Compact
Everyday Repairs
Bosch 12V Max Drill Driver – Best Lightweight Option
Best for: homeowners who want a lighter, easier-to-handle drill for everyday repairs and small DIY projects.
Why we like it: compact size and good control make it more comfortable for long sessions and tight spaces.
Power
12V Max platform (ideal for light-duty tasks)
Battery
Bosch 12V Li-Ion
Size
Compact for tight spaces and cabinets
Control
Easy handling for precise starts
Performance in Real Home Projects
- Great for furniture assembly, hinges, and small hardware.
- Drills cleanly into wood and drywall for light-duty jobs.
- Better control than heavier drills for careful screw driving.
Battery, Charging, Comfort
- Lightweight batteries keep the tool easy to manage.
- Fast, convenient for quick household sessions.
- Less fatigue for overhead work and ladder tasks.
Pros
- Very lightweight and compact.
- Excellent control for precise driving.
- Fits tight spaces where bigger drills struggle.
Cons
- Not ideal for heavy-duty drilling or large hole saws.
- Less power than 18V to 20V drills for tougher materials.
Buy this if: you prioritize comfort, compact size, and control for everyday repairs and light DIY tasks.
Skip this if: you regularly drill large holes, work with dense materials, or want one drill for everything.
Skip this if: you regularly drill large holes, work with dense materials, or want one drill for everything.
Check price and availability on Amazon
Tip: A 12V drill is perfect as a second tool for quick jobs, even if you own a bigger 20V drill.
Best Ecosystem
18V Platform
Long-Term Value
Makita 18V LXT Brushless Drill Driver – Best for Battery Ecosystem
Best for: homeowners who care about long-term value and want a drill that fits a strong tool ecosystem.
Why we like it: dependable performance with the flexibility of Makita’s 18V LXT battery system for future tools.
Power
18V brushless performance for home projects
Battery
Makita 18V LXT Li-Ion platform
Ecosystem
Strong lineup of compatible tools
Reliability
Built for long-term ownership
Performance in Real Home Projects
- Strong everyday drilling and driving for home repairs and DIY work.
- Good control for clean starts and consistent screw driving.
- Reliable under repeated use without feeling “cheap.”
Battery, Charging, Comfort
- Easy to expand with extra LXT batteries for longer sessions.
- Convenient if you plan to add more Makita tools later.
- Comfortable, balanced feel for typical homeowner jobs.
Pros
- Excellent long-term value through the LXT ecosystem.
- Dependable performance and solid build quality.
- Great choice for homeowners building a tool collection.
Cons
- Not always the cheapest option upfront.
- Best value shows over time if you add more tools.
Buy this if: you want a drill that can be the start of a long-term tool platform, or you already own Makita 18V batteries.
Skip this if: you only want the cheapest drill for rare, light tasks and won’t build a tool system.
Skip this if: you only want the cheapest drill for rare, light tasks and won’t build a tool system.
Check price and availability on Amazon
Tip: If you already own Makita 18V batteries, buying tool-only can cut the total cost.
Best Budget
Occasional Use
Home Repairs
Black+Decker 20V Max Drill Driver – Best Budget Option
Best for: homeowners who want a low-cost cordless drill for light repairs, furniture assembly, and simple DIY tasks.
Why we like it: it’s affordable, easy to use, and “good enough” for many common household jobs.
Power
20V Max platform (light-duty focused)
Battery
20V Max Li-Ion
Ease
Simple controls for beginners
Value
Low upfront cost
Performance in Real Home Projects
- Great for light-duty drilling in wood and drywall.
- Handles common screws for furniture and basic repairs.
- Best results when you avoid heavy loads and long fasteners.
Battery, Charging, Comfort
- Battery is convenient for short, occasional sessions.
- Lightweight feel makes it easy for quick jobs.
- Ideal as a “keep around the house” drill.
Pros
- Very affordable entry into cordless drills.
- Easy to use for beginners.
- Good for light household tasks.
Cons
- Not designed for heavy-duty work or dense materials.
- Less durable than mid-range and premium drills.
Buy this if: you want a low-cost drill for basic repairs and you won’t use it every week.
Skip this if: you plan to do frequent DIY projects, drill larger holes, or want a long-term tool ecosystem.
Skip this if: you plan to do frequent DIY projects, drill larger holes, or want a long-term tool ecosystem.
Check price and availability on Amazon
Tip: For occasional use, a budget drill is often enough. Upgrade only if you start doing bigger projects.
Best Compact
Installation Work
Precision
Milwaukee M12 Fuel Installation Driver – Best Compact / Installation Option
Best for: homeowners and installers who need a compact tool for cabinets, hardware, and tight spaces.
Why we like it: interchangeable heads and excellent control make it ideal for precision work where full-size drills feel clumsy.
Platform
M12 Fuel (compact & brushless)
Heads
Multiple interchangeable attachments
Control
Excellent low-speed precision
Use Case
Installation and finish work
Performance in Real Home Projects
- Perfect for cabinet hardware, hinges, and fixtures.
- Works well in tight corners and narrow spaces.
- Not designed for heavy drilling or large holes.
Battery, Charging, Comfort
- Lightweight M12 batteries keep fatigue low.
- Compact size improves control in delicate tasks.
- Great balance for overhead and finish work.
Pros
- Extremely compact and versatile.
- Excellent precision for installation work.
- Interchangeable heads add flexibility.
Cons
- More expensive than basic compact drills.
- Not suitable as a single all-purpose drill.
Buy this if: you do cabinet installs, furniture assembly, or any work where precision and access matter most.
Skip this if: you want one drill to handle heavy-duty drilling and large fasteners.
Skip this if: you want one drill to handle heavy-duty drilling and large fasteners.
Check price and availability on Amazon
Tip: This makes an excellent second drill alongside a full-size 18V or 20V model.
Best 12V from DeWalt
Compact
Lightweight
DeWalt Xtreme 12V Max Drill Driver – Best 12V from DeWalt
Best for: DeWalt fans who want a lightweight 12V drill for everyday repairs, tight spaces, and quick jobs.
Why we like it: compact size with familiar DeWalt quality makes it a comfortable alternative to heavier 20V drills.
Platform
DeWalt Xtreme 12V Max
Battery
12V Max Li-Ion
Size
Compact for tight and overhead work
Use Case
Light-duty home projects
Performance in Real Home Projects
- Great for furniture assembly, shelving, and hardware.
- Enough power for wood and drywall without overdriving screws.
- Better control than larger drills for delicate tasks.
Battery, Charging, Comfort
- Lightweight battery reduces fatigue.
- Comfortable grip for extended light-duty use.
- Convenient for quick jobs where a big drill feels excessive.
Pros
- Compact and easy to handle.
- Trusted DeWalt build quality.
- Excellent control for light DIY tasks.
Cons
- Less power than DeWalt 20V Max models.
- Not suitable for heavy drilling or large fasteners.
Buy this if: you want a lightweight DeWalt drill for everyday repairs and already prefer the DeWalt brand.
Skip this if: you need one drill to handle demanding projects or thick materials.
Skip this if: you need one drill to handle demanding projects or thick materials.
Check price and availability on Amazon
Tip: This pairs well as a compact second drill alongside a DeWalt 20V Max tool.
Which Drill Should You Choose?
Short answer: pick based on how often you use it and what you build. Here’s the fastest way to decide.
One drill for almost everything
DeWalt 20V Max Brushless
Best overall balance of power, control, and long-term reliability for homeowners.
Apartments & light repairs
Bosch 12V Max
Lightweight, compact, and easy to control for shelves, furniture, and quick fixes.
Best value for money
Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V
Strong performance per dollar and a massive battery ecosystem.
Frequent & demanding projects
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2"
Premium torque and durability when you drill often or push harder materials.
Cabinets & precision installs
Milwaukee M12 Installation Driver
Compact body with interchangeable heads for tight spaces and finish work.
Lightweight DeWalt fans
DeWalt Xtreme 12V Max
DeWalt quality in a smaller, lighter 12V format for everyday jobs.
Buying Guide
What Actually Matters
FAQ
What Actually Matters When Choosing a Drill or Driver
If you want a drill that feels good to use and lasts, focus on the few specs that actually change your day-to-day results. Most marketing specs matter less than control, battery ecosystem, and choosing the right size for your work.
1) Voltage: 12V vs 18V or 20V
- 12V: lighter, easier to handle, great for cabinets, assembly, and everyday repairs.
- 18V or 20V: better for bigger holes, denser materials, and more frequent projects.
- If you want one drill for most tasks, a mid-range 18V or 20V brushless model is usually the safest pick.
2) Brushless vs Brushed
- Brushless: typically more efficient, better under load, and often lasts longer.
- Brushed: fine for occasional light use when budget matters most.
- If you use the drill often, brushless is usually worth it.
3) Comfort and Control
- Trigger control matters more than raw power for screw driving.
- Balance and grip reduce fatigue and improve accuracy.
- For overhead work or small spaces, a compact 12V model can feel dramatically better.
4) Chuck Size and Real Use
- 3/8 inch chucks: lighter, fine for light bits and everyday tasks.
- 1/2 inch chucks: more versatile for larger bits and tougher work.
- If you will use spade bits, larger drill bits, or hole saws, prefer a 1/2 inch chuck.
5) Battery Ecosystem and Long-Term Value
- The cheapest drill can become expensive if you later switch platforms.
- Pick a battery system that fits your future tools: impact driver, circular saw, sander, etc.
- If you already own batteries, consider a tool-only purchase to save money.
Rule of thumb: the best long-term value is often the battery platform, not the drill itself.
6) When You Actually Need an Impact Driver
- For long screws, lag bolts, and tougher driving tasks, an impact driver can feel easier.
- For drilling holes, a drill driver is the right tool.
- A drill plus an impact driver is the best combo for many homeowners.
Fast recommendation: If you want one drill for most home projects, choose a brushless 18V or 20V model. If comfort matters most and you mostly do light tasks, choose a compact 12V drill. If you do cabinet installs and tight-space work, consider an installation driver.
FAQ
Should I buy a 12V drill or an 18V or 20V drill?
If you do mostly light repairs, furniture assembly, and occasional DIY tasks, a 12V drill is often the most comfortable choice. If you drill larger holes, work with denser materials, or do projects frequently, 18V or 20V is a better fit. Many homeowners prefer one strong 18V or 20V brushless drill as a main tool and a compact 12V as a second tool for quick jobs.
Is brushless really worth it for homeowners?
For frequent use, yes. Brushless models tend to be more efficient, feel stronger under load, and usually last longer. If you only use a drill a few times per year for light tasks, a budget brushed drill can still be a reasonable choice.
Do I need a drill driver or an impact driver?
A drill driver is the best tool for drilling holes and general household use. An impact driver is better for driving long screws and working with tougher fasteners. Many DIY users like owning both because the drill handles holes and the impact handles driving.
What chuck size should I choose: 3/8 inch or 1/2 inch?
A 1/2 inch chuck is more versatile if you plan to use larger bits, spade bits, or hole saws. A 3/8 inch chuck can be lighter and is fine for typical household drilling and driving. If you want one drill that covers more use cases, 1/2 inch is usually the safer pick.
How much torque do I actually need?
Torque numbers are not always comparable across brands and often do not reflect real control. For most home projects, you want a drill that drives screws without stalling and drills common holes without bogging down. In practice, an 18V or 20V brushless drill usually covers most homeowner needs.
Should I buy a kit or tool-only?
Buy a kit if you do not already own batteries and a charger in that platform. Buy tool-only if you already own compatible batteries, because it can save a lot of money. This is also why choosing a battery ecosystem early matters.