First choice: DeWalt MAX Brushless | $ 113 | Amazon
When people have free time, some turn to the kitchen or the airport while others turn to home improvement projects that often require a cordless drill. If you haven’t already invested in one, you may be a little overwhelmed by the options available. So we’ve compiled the recommendations of some DIY experts who shared their thoughts.
However, before you start buying a cordless drill, be sure to review your plans for it. Do you just use it to hang pictures or build furniture or hang drywall? If you’re focused on smaller jobs, a budget-friendly drill with less fancy features might be for you. On the other hand, it’s probably appropriate if you’re tackling a heavier project that is tricked out and a little tougher on the wallet.
Once you know this information, you can effectively sort your options and decide which one is best for your needs.
Best 20V: DeWalt MAX Brushless
“I renovate old furniture and bring it new life with a modern flair that suits the tastes of those who lead city life. Often times, part overhaul involves an item of repair that I’ve learned is most often fixed by a drill. I use that DeWalt 20V MAX Brushless. An exercise I indulged in about two years ago. It’s light and charges faster than my phone! I can’t imagine there is any trade in the DeWalt 20v MAX Brushless. It’s perfect and reliable. “- – Jessica Russell, Furniture upcycler at Local laundry
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G / O Media can receive a commission
$ 113
Of Amazon
167 bought by readers
Best 18V: Makita XFD131 LXT Driver Drill Kit
“This is the first compact drill / driver I bought. I am so impressed but also disappointed that I didn’t buy it sooner. I had to fix a privacy fence a lot because of one of my dogs, and I had to put an extension cord or two where the damage had occurred so I could make repairs. It takes about 15 minutes to connect the drill and put it away. NO MORE! This sucker can do anything the drill did in 1/4 of the time. It has to save electricity. It’s so nice to grab your bag and go. “- – Thorjr, Amazon employee
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$ 99
Of Amazon
10 bought by readers
Best budget: Milwaukee M12
“My favorite cordless drill is that Milwaukee M12. It’s a 12 volt, but don’t let that fool you, this little drill has some power! I actually bought it about 5 years ago when I was struggling to mount my larger drill bit in tight spaces while working on a bathroom remodeling project. I found it online and decided to try it out and I’m glad I did. It is easier, [and] It just feels really good to hold in your hand. The chuck is really smooth and solidifies it as a premium tool. I have used this drill bit in everything from small projects like building storage space for my garage to large remodeling projects over the years and it hasn’t let me down. “- – Kevin Bazazzadeh, owner of Brilliant day houses
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$ 50
Of Amazon
14 bought by readers
Preferably with batteries: Bosch PS31-2A
“I chose this drill because I own other Bosch products and have only had good experiences with them. Bosch is a brand that has a good reputation. I also looked for a drill bit that was a bit smaller. The smaller size allows you to get into tighter spaces if needed, and for certain DIY projects, this is a big plus. After all, the price was right. Not the most expensive, not the cheapest, it was in the middle of the street. I’ve had this exercise for a few years now and I love it. I’ve created numerous DIYS with it, including a headboard, outdoor bar, DIY fireplace, and more! “- – Cate Griffing, DIY blogger at West Magnolia Charm
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$ 99
Of Amazon
391 bought by readers
Bottom line
Whether you’re remodeling a bathroom, remodeling old furniture, or just hanging up a few picture frames, a cordless drill is a necessity. However, it is important to know what specific tasks this drill will be used for. Otherwise, you could burn out a lighter drill bit by using it on heavier projects.
Also note whether batteries or additional devices are required for your drill and whether these are included in the set.
This story was originally published by Chaya M. Milchstein on December 2nd, 2020 and updated with new information from Juliana Clark on January 22nd, 2021.
