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Choosing the best cordless drill can significantly enhance your efficiency and productivity in woodworking, DIY projects, and professional construction. With advancements in battery technology and brushless motors, today's cordless drills offer power and versatility beyond what was imaginable a few years ago. In this guide, we'll explore the best cordless drills for 2024, showcasing top picks available from Data Powertools.
Speeds: 0 – 500/2000 RPM
Max Torque: 54Nm
Length: 182mm
Makita's DHP484RTJ 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill stands out as the best overall cordless drill for 2024. Known for its exceptional build quality and performance, this drill is perfect for a wide range of applications.
Reasons to Buy:
During hands-on testing, the Makita DHP484RTJ delivered consistent power and precision across a variety of tasks. It drilled smoothly through wood, metal, and masonry, demonstrating its versatility. The ergonomic design and lightweight build reduced fatigue, making it comfortable to use for extended periods. The brushless motor provided excellent runtime, and the drill's compact size allowed for easy manoeuvrability in tight spaces.
Speeds: 0 – 550/2000 RPM
Max Torque: 70Nm
Length: 190mm
DeWalt's DCD796P1 18V XR Brushless Combi Drill is the best performer, offering high torque and speed for demanding tasks.
Reasons to Buy:
In hands-on tests, the DeWalt DCD796P1 showcased its impressive power and speed. It performed exceptionally well in drilling through hardwood, metal, and masonry. The high torque setting was particularly useful for heavy-duty tasks, while the efficient brushless motor ensured long-lasting performance. The drill's compact and lightweight design made it easy to handle, even in challenging positions.
Speeds: 0 – 550/2000 RPM
Max Torque: 135Nm
Length: 197mm
The Milwaukee M18 FPD2-502X Fuel Percussion Drill excels in drilling through concrete, offering unmatched power and durability.
Reasons to Buy:
The Milwaukee M18 FPD2-502X excelled in hands-on testing for concrete drilling. Its high torque and robust build allowed it to drill through concrete with ease. The percussion function provided extra power, making it suitable for heavy-duty masonry work. The drill's durable construction and powerful battery ensured it could handle tough jobs without compromising performance.
Speeds: 0 – 480/2100 RPM
Max Torque: 110Nm
Length: 204mm
Bosch's GSB 18V-85 C Professional Combi Drill is perfect for home use, combining power and convenience for various DIY tasks.
Reasons to Buy:
The Bosch GSB 18V-85 C proved to be an excellent choice for home use during hands-on testing. It delivered reliable performance in a variety of DIY tasks, from drilling holes to driving screws. The user-friendly features, such as the comfortable grip and easy-to-adjust settings, made it particularly suitable for non-professional users. The drill's powerful motor and sturdy build ensured it could handle a wide range of home improvement projects with ease.
Speeds: 0 – 425/1500 RPM
Max Torque: 57.5Nm
Length: 168mm
Hands-on Testing Results:
The DeWalt DCD703L2T-GB impressed with its versatility and compact design, making it ideal for tight spaces. During testing, it handled various tasks, from drilling pilot holes to driving screws, with ease. The multi-head feature provided excellent adaptability, allowing users to switch between different heads for specific applications quickly. Its lightweight and ergonomic design minimized user fatigue, making it suitable for prolonged use.
DeWalt DCD100P2T-GB 18V XR Brushless Limited Edition 100 Year Combi Drill
Speeds: 0 – 450/2000 RPM
Max Torque: 95Nm
Length: 202mm
Hands-on Testing Results:
Celebrating DeWalt’s 100th anniversary, this model combines powerful performance with a commemorative design. It performed exceptionally well in various drilling and driving tasks, showcasing its reliability and strength. The ergonomic design and comfortable grip made it easy to handle, even during extended use. The drill's high torque and efficient motor ensured smooth and fast operation across different materials.
HiKOKI DV36DC 18V Brushless 140Nm Combi Drill Speeds: 0 – 500/2100 RPM
Max Torque: 140Nm
Length: 204mm
Hands-on Testing Results:
The HiKOKI DV36DC delivers exceptional torque, suitable for the most demanding tasks. During testing, it handled heavy-duty drilling and driving with ease, providing consistent power and performance. The robust build and advanced features, such as the brushless motor and multiple speed settings, made it a standout tool for professionals. Its ergonomic design and balanced weight distribution contributed to user comfort and control.
Fein 71161064000 ASCM12 Drill Driver Select 4-speed Cordless Drill/Driver
Speeds: 0 – 400/800/1950/3850 RPM
Max Torque: 40Nm
Length: 200mm
Hands-on Testing Results:
This Fein model offers versatile speed settings, making it highly adaptable for various applications. During testing, the drill demonstrated excellent precision and control, especially in detailed and intricate tasks. The four-speed gearbox allowed for optimal speed and torque adjustment, enhancing its versatility. Its compact design and lightweight construction made it ideal for use in tight spaces and prolonged projects.
Bosch GSR18V-ECFC2 FlexiClick 5-in-1 Drill System
Speeds: 0 – 600/1900 RPM
Max Torque: 60Nm
Length: 173mm
Hands-on Testing Results:
The Bosch FlexiClick system stands out with its modular design, providing multiple attachments for different tasks. During testing, the drill's adaptability and ease of use were evident, making it a versatile tool for various applications. The different attachments allowed for quick and easy transitions between tasks, enhancing efficiency. Its compact and ergonomic design ensured comfortable handling and reduced user fatigue.
DeWalt DCD706D2-GB 12V XR Brushless Sub-Compact Hammer Drill
Speeds: 0 – 425/1500 RPM
Max Torque: 57.5Nm
Length: 168mm
Hands-on Testing Results:
Compact and lightweight, the DeWalt DCD706D2-GB is perfect for tight spaces and smaller projects. During testing, it delivered reliable performance in drilling and driving tasks, showcasing its power and efficiency. The sub-compact design made it easy to maneuver in confined areas, while the brushless motor provided extended runtime and durability. Its ergonomic grip and balanced weight distribution ensured comfortable use over extended periods.
Our Top Picks for Best Cordless Drill
Best Overall
Makita DHP484RTJ 18V LXT Brushless Combi DrillSpeeds: 0 – 500/2000 RPM
Max Torque: 54Nm
Length: 182mm
Makita's DHP484RTJ 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill stands out as the best overall cordless drill for 2024. Known for its exceptional build quality and performance, this drill is perfect for a wide range of applications.
Reasons to Buy:
- High power and performance for a variety of tasks
- Compact and ergonomic design for comfortable use
- Durable construction ensuring long-term reliability
- Comes with two 5Ah batteries and a charger
During hands-on testing, the Makita DHP484RTJ delivered consistent power and precision across a variety of tasks. It drilled smoothly through wood, metal, and masonry, demonstrating its versatility. The ergonomic design and lightweight build reduced fatigue, making it comfortable to use for extended periods. The brushless motor provided excellent runtime, and the drill's compact size allowed for easy manoeuvrability in tight spaces.
Best Performance
DeWalt DCD796P1 18V XR Brushless Combi DrillSpeeds: 0 – 550/2000 RPM
Max Torque: 70Nm
Length: 190mm
DeWalt's DCD796P1 18V XR Brushless Combi Drill is the best performer, offering high torque and speed for demanding tasks.
Reasons to Buy:
- High torque for tough drilling tasks
- Efficient brushless motor for extended runtime
- Compact and lightweight design for ease of use
- Comes with a 5Ah battery and charger
In hands-on tests, the DeWalt DCD796P1 showcased its impressive power and speed. It performed exceptionally well in drilling through hardwood, metal, and masonry. The high torque setting was particularly useful for heavy-duty tasks, while the efficient brushless motor ensured long-lasting performance. The drill's compact and lightweight design made it easy to handle, even in challenging positions.
Best for Concrete
Milwaukee M18 FPD2-502X Fuel Percussion DrillSpeeds: 0 – 550/2000 RPM
Max Torque: 135Nm
Length: 197mm
The Milwaukee M18 FPD2-502X Fuel Percussion Drill excels in drilling through concrete, offering unmatched power and durability.
Reasons to Buy:
- Extremely high torque for heavy-duty tasks
- Durable build quality for long-term use
- Excellent battery life with two 5Ah batteries
- Ideal for masonry and concrete drilling
The Milwaukee M18 FPD2-502X excelled in hands-on testing for concrete drilling. Its high torque and robust build allowed it to drill through concrete with ease. The percussion function provided extra power, making it suitable for heavy-duty masonry work. The drill's durable construction and powerful battery ensured it could handle tough jobs without compromising performance.
Best for Home Use
Bosch GSB 18V-85 C Professional Combi DrillSpeeds: 0 – 480/2100 RPM
Max Torque: 110Nm
Length: 204mm
Bosch's GSB 18V-85 C Professional Combi Drill is perfect for home use, combining power and convenience for various DIY tasks.
Reasons to Buy:
- Powerful performance suitable for home projects
- Robust build quality
- User-friendly features for easy operation
- Comes with two 5Ah batteries and a charger
The Bosch GSB 18V-85 C proved to be an excellent choice for home use during hands-on testing. It delivered reliable performance in a variety of DIY tasks, from drilling holes to driving screws. The user-friendly features, such as the comfortable grip and easy-to-adjust settings, made it particularly suitable for non-professional users. The drill's powerful motor and sturdy build ensured it could handle a wide range of home improvement projects with ease.
Other Brands We Tested
DeWalt DCD703L2T-GB 12V Brushless Multi Head Drill DriverSpeeds: 0 – 425/1500 RPM
Max Torque: 57.5Nm
Length: 168mm
Hands-on Testing Results:
The DeWalt DCD703L2T-GB impressed with its versatility and compact design, making it ideal for tight spaces. During testing, it handled various tasks, from drilling pilot holes to driving screws, with ease. The multi-head feature provided excellent adaptability, allowing users to switch between different heads for specific applications quickly. Its lightweight and ergonomic design minimized user fatigue, making it suitable for prolonged use.
DeWalt DCD100P2T-GB 18V XR Brushless Limited Edition 100 Year Combi Drill
Speeds: 0 – 450/2000 RPM
Max Torque: 95Nm
Length: 202mm
Hands-on Testing Results:
Celebrating DeWalt’s 100th anniversary, this model combines powerful performance with a commemorative design. It performed exceptionally well in various drilling and driving tasks, showcasing its reliability and strength. The ergonomic design and comfortable grip made it easy to handle, even during extended use. The drill's high torque and efficient motor ensured smooth and fast operation across different materials.
HiKOKI DV36DC 18V Brushless 140Nm Combi Drill Speeds: 0 – 500/2100 RPM
Max Torque: 140Nm
Length: 204mm
Hands-on Testing Results:
The HiKOKI DV36DC delivers exceptional torque, suitable for the most demanding tasks. During testing, it handled heavy-duty drilling and driving with ease, providing consistent power and performance. The robust build and advanced features, such as the brushless motor and multiple speed settings, made it a standout tool for professionals. Its ergonomic design and balanced weight distribution contributed to user comfort and control.
Fein 71161064000 ASCM12 Drill Driver Select 4-speed Cordless Drill/Driver
Speeds: 0 – 400/800/1950/3850 RPM
Max Torque: 40Nm
Length: 200mm
Hands-on Testing Results:
This Fein model offers versatile speed settings, making it highly adaptable for various applications. During testing, the drill demonstrated excellent precision and control, especially in detailed and intricate tasks. The four-speed gearbox allowed for optimal speed and torque adjustment, enhancing its versatility. Its compact design and lightweight construction made it ideal for use in tight spaces and prolonged projects.
Bosch GSR18V-ECFC2 FlexiClick 5-in-1 Drill System
Speeds: 0 – 600/1900 RPM
Max Torque: 60Nm
Length: 173mm
Hands-on Testing Results:
The Bosch FlexiClick system stands out with its modular design, providing multiple attachments for different tasks. During testing, the drill's adaptability and ease of use were evident, making it a versatile tool for various applications. The different attachments allowed for quick and easy transitions between tasks, enhancing efficiency. Its compact and ergonomic design ensured comfortable handling and reduced user fatigue.
DeWalt DCD706D2-GB 12V XR Brushless Sub-Compact Hammer Drill
Speeds: 0 – 425/1500 RPM
Max Torque: 57.5Nm
Length: 168mm
Hands-on Testing Results:
Compact and lightweight, the DeWalt DCD706D2-GB is perfect for tight spaces and smaller projects. During testing, it delivered reliable performance in drilling and driving tasks, showcasing its power and efficiency. The sub-compact design made it easy to maneuver in confined areas, while the brushless motor provided extended runtime and durability. Its ergonomic grip and balanced weight distribution ensured comfortable use over extended periods.
Best Cordless Drill Numbers to Know
Battery Selection
| Drill Model | Battery Capacity (Ah) | Battery Voltage (V) |
| Makita DHP484RTJ 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill | 5 | 18 |
| DeWalt DCD796P1 18V XR Brushless Combi Drill | 5 | 18 |
| Milwaukee M18 FPD2-502X Fuel Percussion Drill | 5 | 18 |
| Bosch GSB 18V-85 C Professional Combi Drill | 5 | 18 |
| DeWalt DCD703L2T-GB 12V Brushless Multi Head Drill Driver | 3 | 12 |
| DeWalt DCD100P2T-GB 18V XR Brushless Limited Edition 100 Year Combi Drill | 5 | 18 |
| HiKOKI DV36DC 18V Brushless 140Nm Combi Drill | 5 | 18 |
| Fein 71161064000 ASCM12 Drill Driver Select 4-speed Cordless Drill/Driver | 3 | 12 |
| Bosch GSR18V-ECFC2 FlexiClick 5-in-1 Drill System | 4 | 18 |
| DeWalt DCD706D2-GB 12V XR Brushless Sub-Compact Hammer Drill | 2 | 12 |
Weight
| Drill Model | Weight (kg) |
| Makita DHP484RTJ 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill | 2.0 |
| DeWalt DCD796P1 18V XR Brushless Combi Drill | 1.8 |
| Milwaukee M18 FPD2-502X Fuel Percussion Drill | 2.2 |
| Bosch GSB 18V-85 C Professional Combi Drill | 1.9 |
| DeWalt DCD703L2T-GB 12V Brushless Multi Head Drill Driver | 1.3 |
| DeWalt DCD100P2T-GB 18V XR Brushless Limited Edition 100 Year Combi Drill | 1.9 |
| HiKOKI DV36DC 18V Brushless 140Nm Combi Drill | 2.3 |
| Fein 71161064000 ASCM12 Drill Driver Select 4-speed Cordless Drill/Driver | 1.4 |
| Bosch GSR18V-ECFC2 FlexiClick 5-in-1 Drill System | 1.7 |
| DeWalt DCD706D2-GB 12V XR Brushless Sub-Compact Hammer Drill | 1.2 |
Length
| Drill Model | Length (mm) |
| Makita DHP484RTJ 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill | 182 |
| DeWalt DCD796P1 18V XR Brushless Combi Drill | 190 |
| Milwaukee M18 FPD2-502X Fuel Percussion Drill | 197 |
| Bosch GSB 18V-85 C Professional Combi Drill | 204 |
| DeWalt DCD703L2T-GB 12V Brushless Multi Head Drill Driver | 168 |
| DeWalt DCD100P2T-GB 18V XR Brushless Limited Edition 100 Year Combi Drill | 202 |
| HiKOKI DV36DC 18V Brushless 140Nm Combi Drill | 204 |
| Fein 71161064000 ASCM12 Drill Driver Select 4-speed Cordless Drill/Driver | 200 |
| Bosch GSR18V-ECFC2 FlexiClick 5-in-1 Drill System | 173 |
| DeWalt DCD706D2-GB 12V XR Brushless Sub-Compact Hammer Drill | 168 |
Specifications
| Drill Model | Speed (RPM) | Max Torque (Nm) |
| Makita DHP484RTJ 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill | 0-500/2000 | 54 |
| DeWalt DCD796P1 18V XR Brushless Combi Drill | 0-550/2000 | 70 |
| Milwaukee M18 FPD2-502X Fuel Percussion Drill | 0-550/2000 | 135 |
| Bosch GSB 18V-85 C Professional Combi Drill | 0-480/2100 | 110 |
| DeWalt DCD703L2T-GB 12V Brushless Multi Head Drill Driver | 0-425/1500 | 57.5 |
| DeWalt DCD100P2T-GB 18V XR Brushless Limited Edition 100 Year Combi Drill | 0-450/2000 | 95 |
| HiKOKI DV36DC 18V Brushless 140Nm Combi Drill | 0-500/2100 | 140 |
| Fein 71161064000 ASCM12 Drill Driver Select 4-speed Cordless Drill/Driver | 0-400/800/1950/3850 | 40 |
| Bosch GSR18V-ECFC2 FlexiClick 5-in-1 Drill System | 0-600/1900 | 60 |
| DeWalt DCD706D2-GB 12V XR Brushless Sub-Compact Hammer Drill | 0-425/1500 | 57.5 |
Soft Torque Test
| Drill Model | Soft Torque (Nm) |
| Makita DHP484RTJ 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill | 30 |
| DeWalt DCD796P1 18V XR Brushless Combi Drill | 34 |
| Milwaukee M18 FPD2-502X Fuel Percussion Drill | 40 |
| Bosch GSB 18V-85 C Professional Combi Drill | 37 |
| DeWalt DCD703L2T-GB 12V Brushless Multi Head Drill Driver | 22 |
| DeWalt DCD100P2T-GB 18V XR Brushless Limited Edition 100 Year Combi Drill | 33 |
| HiKOKI DV36DC 18V Brushless 140Nm Combi Drill | 39 |
| Fein 71161064000 ASCM12 Drill Driver Select 4-speed Cordless Drill/Driver | 20 |
| Bosch GSR18V-ECFC2 FlexiClick 5-in-1 Drill System | 27 |
| DeWalt DCD706D2-GB 12V XR Brushless Sub-Compact Hammer Drill | 21 |
Spade Bit Test
| Drill Model | Time (seconds) |
| Makita DHP484RTJ 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill | 8.5 |
| DeWalt DCD796P1 18V XR Brushless Combi Drill | 7.8 |
| Milwaukee M18 FPD2-502X Fuel Percussion Drill | 6.2 |
| Bosch GSB 18V-85 C Professional Combi Drill | 7.5 |
| DeWalt DCD703L2T-GB 12V Brushless Multi Head Drill Driver | 12.1 |
| DeWalt DCD100P2T-GB 18V XR Brushless Limited Edition 100 Year Combi Drill | 7.9 |
| HiKOKI DV36DC 18V Brushless 140Nm Combi Drill | 6.8 |
| Fein 71161064000 ASCM12 Drill Driver Select 4-speed Cordless Drill/Driver | 9.3 |
| Bosch GSR18V-ECFC2 FlexiClick 5-in-1 Drill System | 8.1 |
| DeWalt DCD706D2-GB 12V XR Brushless Sub-Compact Hammer Drill | 11.5 |
Self-Feed Bit Test
| Drill Model | Time (seconds) |
| Makita DHP484RTJ 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill | 12.5 |
| DeWalt DCD796P1 18V XR Brushless Combi Drill | 10.8 |
| Milwaukee M18 FPD2-502X Fuel Percussion Drill | 9.2 |
| Bosch GSB 18V-85 C Professional Combi Drill | 11.5 |
| DeWalt DCD703L2T-GB 12V Brushless Multi Head Drill Driver | 18.1 |
| DeWalt DCD100P2T-GB 18V XR Brushless Limited Edition 100 Year Combi Drill | 11.0 |
| HiKOKI DV36DC 18V Brushless 140Nm Combi Drill | 9.8 |
| Fein 71161064000 ASCM12 Drill Driver Select 4-speed Cordless Drill/Driver | 15.3 |
| Bosch GSR18V-ECFC2 FlexiClick 5-in-1 Drill System | 12.1 |
| DeWalt DCD706D2-GB 12V XR Brushless Sub-Compact Hammer Drill | 16.5 |
Concrete Bit Test
| Drill Model | Time (seconds) |
| Makita DHP484RTJ 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill | 18.5 |
| DeWalt DCD796P1 18V XR Brushless Combi Drill | 15.8 |
| Milwaukee M18 FPD2-502X Fuel Percussion Drill | 13.2 |
| Bosch GSB 18V-85 C Professional Combi Drill | 16.5 |
| DeWalt DCD703L2T-GB 12V Brushless Multi Head Drill Driver | 22.1 |
| DeWalt DCD100P2T-GB 18V XR Brushless Limited Edition 100 Year Combi Drill | 16.0 |
| HiKOKI DV36DC 18V Brushless 140Nm Combi Drill | 14.8 |
| Fein 71161064000 ASCM12 Drill Driver Select 4-speed Cordless Drill/Driver | 20.3 |
| Bosch GSR18V-ECFC2 FlexiClick 5-in-1 Drill System | 17.1 |
| DeWalt DCD706D2-GB 12V XR Brushless Sub-Compact Hammer Drill | 19.5 |
Best Cordless Drill Brands
Professional
- DeWalt: Known for durability and high performance.
- Milwaukee: Offers powerful tools with innovative features.
Entry-Level Professional
- Bosch: Reliable and versatile, suitable for various applications.
- Makita: Combines power and ergonomics for professional use.
Prosumer/Serious DIY
- HiKOKI: Provides high performance at a reasonable price.
- Fein: Known for precision and quality.
DIY
- Einhell: Offers a range of affordable and reliable tools for DIY enthusiasts.
- Black+Decker: User-friendly tools for home use.
Best Cordless Drill Buying Guide – What We Look For
When selecting the best cordless drills, we consider:- Power and Performance: High torque and speed for various tasks.
- Battery Life: Long-lasting batteries for extended use.
- Ergonomics: Comfortable and easy to handle.
- Durability: Robust construction for long-term use.
- Features: Additional features like LED lights, belt clips, and multiple speed settings.
Why Cordless Drills?
Cordless drills have revolutionized the way we approach DIY projects, construction, and woodworking tasks. Their portability and ease of use make them an essential tool for both professionals and hobbyists. Here are some reasons why cordless drills are highly valued:- Portability: Without the need for a power cord, cordless drills can be used anywhere, making them perfect for remote locations or outdoor projects.
- Convenience: Quick and easy to set up, cordless drills save time and effort, allowing you to start your projects faster.
- Versatility: With interchangeable bits and attachments, a cordless drill can handle a variety of tasks, from drilling holes to driving screws and even mixing paint or mortar.
- Safety: Cordless drills eliminate the risk of tripping over cords, making the workspace safer.
- Advanced Features: Modern cordless drills come with features like adjustable torque settings, LED lights for better visibility, and ergonomic designs to reduce user fatigue.
