Best 20V MAX Rechargeable Drills

TL;DR: The Black+Decker LDX120C delivers 20V MAX power in a 3.15‑lb, 9.4‑in compact package, with a 1.5 Ah battery, 115 in‑lb torque and an LED light for light DIY tasks.

At the heart of the LDX120C is a 20V MAX (nominal 18V) lithium‑ion system that packs 1.5 Ah of capacity into a battery that holds its charge for up to 18 months. The drill spins up to 650 RPM and produces 115 in‑lb of torque, while an 11‑position clutch lets you dial in the right amount of turning force for screws and small fasteners. Its keyless 3/8‑inch chuck, variable‑speed trigger and forward/reverse switch make bit changes and speed adjustments quick and intuitive. Weighing just 3.15 lb and measuring 7.68 in tall by 9.4 in long, it feels light enough to hold overhead for long periods.

Compared with the other ten tools in this roundup, the LDX120C is among the lightest—lighter than the Black+Decker BDCDMT120C (around 3.8 lb) and the DeWalt DCD771B (3.28 lb). Its torque is modest; the WEN 20V Max Drill pushes 354 in‑lb, and its max speed of 1500 RPM dwarfs the LDX120C’s 650 RPM. Even the BDCDMT120C reaches 800 RPM. So the LDX120C trades raw power for a more compact, easy‑to‑maneuver form factor, which many beginners appreciate.

User reviews repeatedly praise the lightweight feel and the built‑in LED work light that brightens dim corners. Homeowners also like the keyless chuck for fast bit swaps and the long‑term charge retention that lets the drill sit on a shelf for months without losing power. Professional reviewers, however, note that the brushed motor is less efficient and durable than brushless alternatives, and the single‑speed range can feel limiting when you need higher drilling speeds. Those who tackle tougher materials may find the 115 in‑lb torque insufficient.

Additional technical touches include AutoSense torque adjustment on select models and compatibility with Black+Decker’s 20V MAX POWERCONNECT battery ecosystem, so you can share batteries across other tools in the line. The drill also features a forward/reverse selector and a variable‑speed trigger for finer control, rounding out a well‑equipped entry‑level package.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry-level option — the Black+Decker LDX120C offers Battery Capacity: 1.5 Ah

TL;DR: At $39.99 the Avid Power 20V Cordless Drill packs a 1.5 Ah battery, up to 320 in‑lbs torque and a 22‑41 piece accessory kit in a lightweight 2.3 lb body, earning a 4.6‑star rating from over 23 k reviewers.

This drill’s most eye‑catching spec is the extensive accessory set – the package ships with anywhere from 22 to 41 pieces, including drill bits, screw bits, an extension bar, flexible shaft, case, belt clip and charger. That kind of kit usually adds $20‑$30 to a comparable tool, so the $39.99 price point feels generous.

Compared with the other ten drills in the roundup, the Avid Power model is noticeably lighter than the Black+Decker BDCDMT120C (about 3.9 lb) and the Black+Decker LDX120C (3.15 lb), and it also undercuts the DeWalt DCD777D1 at 2.82 lb. Its 1.5 Ah battery is smaller than the WEN 20V Max’s 2.0 Ah pack and the DeWalt DCD777D1’s 2.0 Ah, but it matches the Black+Decker BDCDMT120C’s 1.5 Ah. Torque-wise, the Avid Power’s 220‑320 in‑lb range sits below WEN’s 354 in‑lb rating, yet it still exceeds the minimum torque needed for most DIY wood and metal jobs.

Reviewers love how the 2.3‑lb tool feels in one hand, noting that the anti‑slip rubber grip and variable‑speed trigger make it comfortable for furniture assembly or hanging shelves. The real‑time battery indicator and built‑in LED work light earn extra points for convenience. However, professional reviewers flag that the motor can overheat and emit a burning smell during extended heavy‑duty use, and users report the drill stalling on spade bits or larger steel holes, making it less suitable for demanding tasks or lag‑screw driving.

Best for: Budget‑conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the Avid Power 20V Cordless Drill offers Battery Capacity: 1.5Ah (1500 mAh)

Avoid if: You need advanced features or professional‑grade performance

TL;DR: The Craftsman CMCK200C2 delivers brushless power, 1700 in‑lbs torque and 3800 IPM impacts, backed by a 2 Ah battery, though its premium price and trigger sensitivity may limit heavy‑duty use.

The standout spec is the 3800 IPM impact rate paired with a brushless motor that claims a 30% power improvement and 25% longer runtime. With a listed impact max torque of 1700 in‑lbs and a drill power of 350 UWO, the tool promises professional‑level performance without the bulk of larger systems.

At just 0.000625 pounds, the CMCK200C2 is dramatically lighter than the DeWalt DCD777D1 (2.82 lb) and the Black+Decker LDX120C (3.15 lb). It does sit taller at 11.0 inches and longer at 15.5 inches, out‑sizing the DeWalt DCD777D1’s 9.813‑inch height and 12.5‑inch length. Battery capacity matches the DeWalt DCD777D1’s 2.0 Ah pack, while the 7.01‑inch impact driver length exceeds the tool‑head lengths listed for most peers.

Users consistently praise the reliable runtime and the three surrounding LEDs that illuminate tight workspaces. The one‑handed quick‑release chuck also earns high marks for speed. Professional reviewers note the brushless motor’s efficiency, yet both reviewers and everyday owners warn that the variable‑speed trigger can be overly sensitive, leading to bit breakage. The combo’s power sits in the mid‑range, so it may fall short on demanding automotive jobs like lug‑nut removal.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the Craftsman CMCK200C2 offers Battery Capacity: 2Ah

Avoid if: You need a tool for heavy‑duty professional construction or automotive repair, or you require an ultra‑compact, low‑profile drill.

TL;DR: The DEWALT DCD996B packs a 2,100 in‑lbs max torque brushless motor, 3‑Speed gearbox and a bright 70‑lumen LED into a 4‑pound, 20 V drill‑driver that commands a premium price.

What really sets this drill apart is its hammer performance – the max hammer rate hits 28,050 BPM, and the highest‑speed hammer setting reaches 38,250 BPM. Those numbers give you serious impact power for masonry, while the 2,100 in‑lbs max torque handles demanding fastening tasks without bogging down.

Compared with the other ten models in the roundup, the DCD996B sits in the premium tier. It weighs 4.0 pounds, making it lighter than the Porter‑Cable 20V MAX Drill (5.0 pounds) but heavier than the DEWALT DCD806B (3.06 pounds) and the DEWALT DCD794B (2.47 pounds). Its 70‑lumen, 3‑Mode LED is on par with the DCD806B’s lighting, yet the DCD996B boasts a 20 X brightness improvement over its predecessor. With three speed settings, a brushless motor and kickback control, it offers more features than many of the compact peers.

Users consistently praise the tool’s raw power and reliability on tough jobs. Contractors note the bright, adjustable LED makes tight‑space work easier, and the extended runtime of up to 275 holes per charge reduces interruptions. The downside that surfaces in reviews is the tool‑only configuration – you’ll need to buy a battery and charger separately – and the weight can feel substantial during prolonged use, especially when paired with a high‑capacity pack.

Technical details reinforce its professional focus: a metal ratcheting chuck with carbide inserts, a variable‑speed trigger, and an anti‑rotation kickback control system all contribute to precise, safe operation. The brushless motor delivers a 75 % runtime improvement over older brushed 18 V models, and the 20‑minute LED spotlight shutoff helps conserve power.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high‑quality option — the DEWALT DCD996B offers Chuck Size: 1/2 inch

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $239.00

TL;DR: The Black+Decker BDCDMT120C delivers a modular 20V MAX drill with a 3/8‑inch keyless chuck, 1.5 Ah battery and 800 RPM motor, ideal for light DIY tasks at a modest price.

Its standout feature is the MATRIX Quick Connect system, which lets you snap the drill onto a shared power base and swap to other compatible attachments in seconds. The unit runs on a 20V MAX (nominal 18V) lithium‑ion battery rated at 1.5 Ah and stores 30 Wh of energy, while the brushed motor tops out at 800 RPM. At 3.9 lb and 8.8 inches tall, the tool feels light enough for overhead work, and the keyless 3/8‑inch chuck accepts a wide range of bits. Charge time is listed as 180 minutes, and the pack holds its charge for up to 18 months, which is useful for occasional use.

Compared with its peers, the BDCDMT120C is heavier than the 2.3‑lb Avid Power drill but lighter than the 3.28‑lb DeWalt DCD771B. Its 1.5 Ah pack matches the capacity of the Black+Decker LDX120C and Avid Power, yet falls short of the WEN’s 2.0 Ah battery. The 800 RPM limit is modest next to the WEN’s 1500 RPM and the DeWalt DCD777D1’s 1,650 RPM, so it won’t spin as fast as the higher‑end models. Its overall length of 11.3 inches sits between the shorter 9.4‑inch LDX120C and the longer 12.5‑inch DeWalt DCD777D1, giving a balanced feel.

Users consistently praise the quick‑attach system for letting a single battery power multiple tools, and many note the LED light and compact shape make tight‑space jobs easier. Professional reviewers highlight the low weight and ergonomic feel, calling it a solid choice for residential projects. Because the same 20V MAX base powers multiple attachments, owners appreciate not having to buy separate batteries for each tool. The main criticisms focus on the brushed motor and lower RPM, which some say limit the drill’s usefulness on tougher, professional‑grade jobs.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry-level option — the Black+Decker BDCDMT120C offers Chuck Size: 3/8-inch

Avoid if: You need advanced features or professional‑grade performance

TL;DR: The DeWalt DCD777D1 delivers 404 UWO of power in a compact 6.38‑inch head, backed by a brushless 20 V motor, 2.0 Ah battery and a solid 4.7‑star rating.

The standout spec is its 404 UWO power output from a brushless motor, which professional reviewers note gives performance comparable to corded models while keeping the tool light at 2.82 lb. The 6.38‑inch tool head length lets you reach tight spots that larger drills can’t fit, and the 1/2‑inch ratcheting metal chuck holds bits securely during demanding jobs.

Compared with the other ten drills in this roundup, the DCD777D1 is a bit heavier than the DeWalt DCD794B (2.47 lb) but offers a longer overall length of 12.5 in versus that model’s 6.5 in. Its 1/2‑inch chuck is larger than the 3/8‑inch chucks on the Black+Decker LDX120C and BDCDMT120C, and its top speed of up to 1,650 RPM exceeds the 650 RPM and 800 RPM limits of those Black+Decker tools. The Craftsman CMCK200C2 lists a power rating of 350 UWO, so the DeWalt’s 404 UWO gives it a clear power edge, while also delivering a much higher speed ceiling.

Users consistently praise the drill’s compact size and reliable bit retention, calling it “the go‑to” for DIY projects that need a tight‑fit driver. The brushless motor’s efficiency is highlighted as a reason for longer run time, though some note the included 2.0 Ah battery may feel modest during extended heavy‑duty work. An LED light with a 20‑second delay adds visibility in dim spaces, and the 15 clutch positions plus 2‑speed selector give fine control over torque and speed.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the DeWalt DCD777D1 offers Battery Capacity: 2.0 Ah

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $99.00

TL;DR: The PORTER‑CABLE 20V MAX Drill packs a brushless 370 MWO motor, 1.5 AH battery pack and a 270 in‑lb torque rating into a 5.0‑lb kit, but its premium $179.99 price puts it above most rivals.

This drill’s standout spec is the brushless motor rated at 370 MWO, which professional reviewers say delivers longer runtime and stays cooler under load. Coupled with a two‑speed transmission (0‑450 RPM low / 0‑1,800 RPM high) and a max torque of 270 in‑lbs, it handles routine drilling and fastening without stalling.

In the 11‑product roundup, the PORTER‑CABLE kit is heavier than the ultra‑light DeWalt DCD794B (around 2.5 lb) and the DeWalt DCD777D1 (2.8 lb), yet lighter than the DEWALT DCD996B’s 4.0‑lb unit. Its price tag of $179.99 also sits above the budget‑friendly Craftsman CMCK200C2 and the $100‑range DeWalt DCD806B, positioning it as a premium contender.

User sentiment highlights the brushless motor’s “50 % more runtime” claim and praises the keyless ratcheting 1/2 in chuck for quick bit changes. The built‑in LED work light is repeatedly mentioned as handy for dim spaces. However, several reviewers note the torque feels modest compared with higher‑torque competitors, and the $179.99 price can be a hurdle for DIYers on a budget.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high‑quality option — the PORTER‑CABLE 20V MAX Drill offers Battery Capacity: 1.5 AH

TL;DR: The DeWalt DCD771B packs a 300 UWO motor, 16‑position clutch plus drill mode, and a 1/2‑inch keyless chuck into a 3.28‑lb, compact 8.5‑inch body, making it a solid mid‑range choice for DIY projects.

The standout spec is the 16 + drill‑mode clutch, giving you fine torque control across a wide range of screw‑driving tasks. Paired with a 300 UWO motor and a 230 ft‑lb torque rating, the drill can handle typical wood and metal jobs without feeling under‑powered.

Compared with the other ten tools, the DCD771B is heavier than the Black+Decker LDX120C (3.15 lb) and the DeWalt DCD794B (2.4–2.75 lb), but lighter than the Black+Decker BDCDMT120C (3.9 lb). Its 1/2‑inch chuck outsizes the 3/8‑inch chucks on both Black+Decker models, matching the larger DeWalt DCD777D1. The 16‑position clutch also exceeds the 11‑position clutches on the Black+Decker units and the 15‑position clutch on the WEN drill, giving you more granular control.

Users consistently praise the ergonomic handle and the LED that stays lit for 20 seconds after you release the trigger, calling it a “game‑changer” for dim workspaces. Professional reviewers note the solid power‑to‑weight ratio, while everyday owners appreciate the quick‑release chuck and the variable‑speed trigger for smooth starts. The bare‑tool format means you’ll need to buy a 20V MAX battery separately, a point that shows up in several user comments.

Technical context adds that the drill runs at 0‑450 RPM on low speed and 0‑1,500 RPM on high speed, thanks to its 2‑speed transmission. The electric brake stops the bit quickly, and the variable‑speed trigger lets you dial in the exact speed you need. Although the Craftsman CMCK200C2 leads the lineup with a 350 UWO motor, the DCD771B’s 300 UWO output still delivers reliable performance for most household tasks.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the DeWalt DCD771B offers Clutch Settings: 16 + drill mode

Avoid if: You have limited desk space or need portability

TL;DR: The DeWalt DCD794B packs a brushless motor, 404 UWO power and a 5.9‑inch tool head into a 2.47‑lb, ultra‑compact package, ideal for tight‑space drilling but lacking a hammer function.

This drill’s standout feature is its brushless motor paired with a 404 UWO power output and a compact 5.9‑inch tool‑head length, letting you reach places most drills can’t. The 15‑position clutch and 2‑speed transmission (0–450/1650 RPM) give you fine control from delicate work to tougher fastening.

Compared with the other ten models in the roundup, the DCD794B is lighter than the DeWalt DCD777D1 (2.82 lb) and the Black+Decker LDX120C (3.15 lb), yet noticeably heavier than the Craftsman CMCK200C2, whose listed weight is 0.000625 lb. Its overall length of 6.5 inches and height of 8.39 inches make it shorter and narrower than the Craftsman’s 15.5‑inch length, 11.0‑inch height and 4.5‑inch width, while still fitting comfortably in tighter spaces than the bulkier DEWALT DCD806B (about 3.06 lb). The tool’s width of 3.32 inches also beats the wider Black+Decker BDCDMT120C (3.2 inches) in a comparable footprint.

Reviewers consistently praise the brushless motor for its efficiency and durability, noting that the ultra‑compact head “gets into corners you’d otherwise miss.” Professional reviewers highlight the lightweight feel as a fatigue‑reducer during overhead work. The main criticisms focus on the absence of a hammer‑drill mode, which makes the DCD794B unsuitable for masonry, and the modest 404 UWO output, which falls short of higher‑end flagship models.

Beyond the core specs, the drill offers an LED work light for illuminated jobs, 15 clutch positions for torque control, and compatibility with over 300 tools in DeWalt’s 20V MAX system, meaning you can share batteries across a large tool ecosystem.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high-quality option — the DeWalt DCD794B offers Torque: 1 Nm

TL;DR: The DEWALT DCD806B delivers a massive 2,100 in‑lbs of torque and a brushless motor in a compact 9.3‑in‑high, 3‑lb package, but its premium price means you’ll need a separate battery.

What really sets the DCD806B apart is its max torque of 2,100 in‑lbs, the highest rating in this group. Powered by a brushless 20 V motor, it also sports a 2‑speed all‑metal transmission and 14 clutch positions, giving you fine control from light drilling to heavy hammering.

At 236 mm tall (about 9.3 in) and weighing 3.06 lb, it’s more compact than the Porter‑Cable 20V MAX drill, which tips the scales at 5.0 lb, yet a bit heavier than DeWalt’s own DCD794B at 2.47 lb. Its no‑load speed reaches 0‑2,000 RPM, outpacing the Porter‑Cable’s 0‑1,800 RPM and the DCD794B’s 0‑1,650 RPM, while its length of 186 mm (7.3 in) keeps it easy to maneuver in tight spots.

Professional reviewers highlight the tool’s “insane torque” and the durability of its all‑metal build, noting that the anti‑rotation system helps prevent bind‑ups. Users echo this sentiment, praising how quickly the drill powers through concrete, but some mention that the chuck can feel tight until it’s broken in, and that running at full power drains the battery noticeably.

Additional features include a 70‑lumens LED that pivots in three positions and shuts off automatically, an anti‑rotation system for safety, and a rated 175 holes per charge with a max power output of 1,050 MWO. The 1/2 in. metal ratcheting chuck and 14 clutch settings round out a tool aimed at demanding professional jobs.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the DEWALT DCD806B offers Chuck Size: 1/2 in.

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $140.09

TL;DR: The WEN 20V Max Drill packs 354 in‑lb of torque, a 2.0 Ah battery and 15 clutch settings into a compact 3/8‑inch keyless design, making it a solid budget choice for light DIY projects.

The standout spec is the 354 in‑lb torque rating, which tops many entry‑level rivals and pairs with a two‑speed range that tops out at 1,500 RPM. Combined with a 2.0 Ah lithium‑ion battery, the drill can bore through wood up to 1.2 inches and steel up to 0.39 inches without a hitch.

When you line it up against the other ten drills, the WEN’s battery capacity matches the DeWalt DCD777D1’s 2.0 Ah pack but outstrips the 1.5 Ah cells found in the Black+Decker BDCDMT120C, Black+Decker LDX120C and Avid Power models. Its 15 clutch positions also exceed the 11‑position clutches on those three competitors, and the 354 in‑lb torque is substantially higher than the 115 in‑lb offered by the Black+Decker LDX120C and the 220‑320 in‑lb range quoted for the Avid Power drill.

User sentiment points to the drill’s affordability and the convenience of a keyless 3/8‑inch chuck, an LED work light and an ergonomic grip. Reviewers appreciate the solid torque for everyday repairs, but several note that the brushed motor can feel less refined than brushless alternatives and that demanding fasteners sometimes need a pilot hole. Professional reviewers echo the torque strength while flagging the brushed motor as a durability concern.

Additional technical context includes a brushed motor, a variable‑pressure trigger for smooth speed control, and a two‑year limited warranty. The drill ships with a battery charger and a belt hook, and its LED work light helps you stay on target in dim spaces.

Best for: Users with specific technical requirements or compatibility needs — the WEN 20V Max Drill 8-inch offers Battery Capacity: 2.0 Ah

Avoid if: You need powerful performance or professional‑grade features