Best Brushless Drills

TL;DR: At $27.54 the DEKO PRO 20V Cordless Drill packs a brushless motor, 350 in‑lb torque and a 1.5 Ah battery into a 2.5 lb, 3/8‑inch keyless kit that feels solid for DIY jobs.

This drill’s standout spec is its brushless 20 V motor delivering up to 350 in‑lb of torque and a top speed of 1350 RPM while staying under 2.5 lb. The lightweight pistol‑grip design and keyless 3/8‑inch chuck make bit changes fast, and the built‑in LED worklight shines directly on the fastener. The package even includes a 1.5 Ah lithium‑ion battery, charger, a 10‑piece screwdriver bit set and a magnetic bits holder, so you can start a project straight out of the box.

Compared with the other ten drills in this roundup, the DEKO PRO sits at the low‑end of the price spectrum and is roughly as light as the DeWalt DCD794 (about 2.54 lb) but noticeably lighter than the Kobalt KDD524B at 4.67 lb. Its 350 in‑lb torque falls short of the HYCHIKA 16.8V’s 410 in‑lb and the Milwaukee M12 Fuel’s 400 in‑lb, and its 1350 RPM high‑speed range is a few hundred RPM lower than the DeWalt DCD794’s 1650 RPM and the Milwaukee’s 1700 RPM. Still, the DEKO PRO’s two‑speed variable trigger and 18+1 torque settings give enough flexibility for most light‑ to medium‑duty tasks while keeping the overall cost well below many of its peers.

User sentiment repeatedly praises the drill’s compact size, easy‑to‑use pistol grip and the fact that the battery and bits are included. Reviewers note that the brushless motor feels smooth and that the LED light is handy in dim spaces. The main criticisms focus on the 350 in‑lb torque ceiling, which some users say limits the tool for heavy‑duty projects, and the 1.5 Ah battery capacity, which can require more frequent recharges during longer jobs. Professional reviewers echo these points, calling it an economical choice for DIY homeowners but warning that it isn’t built for demanding construction work.

Beyond the basics, the DEKO PRO offers a plastic housing that keeps weight down, a 2‑speed transmission that lets you dial in low‑speed power (0‑350 RPM) for driving screws and high‑speed drilling (0‑1350 RPM) for wood or metal. The 18+1 torque settings let you fine‑tune the clutch for delicate tasks, and the keyless chuck eliminates the need for extra tools when swapping bits.

Best for: Budget‑conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the DEKO PRO 20V Cordless Drill offers Battery Capacity: 1.5 Ah

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

TL;DR: The DeWalt DCD777D1 delivers 404 in‑lb of torque in a compact 6.38‑inch head, with a brushless motor and 2‑speed trigger, making it a solid, well‑reviewed option for DIY and trade work.

The standout spec is the 404 in‑lb of max torque produced by a brushless motor, paired with a 6.38‑inch tool head that fits into tight cavities. An ergonomic comfort‑grip handle keeps fatigue low during extended use, and the 2‑speed variable trigger lets you dial in speed for drilling or fastening.

At 2.82 lb, the DCD777D1 is heavier than the Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hammer Drill’s 2.2 lb body, but its overall length of 12.5 inches far exceeds Milwaukee’s 6.0‑inch length, giving you more room for larger bits. Compared with the DeWalt DCD794, it weighs a bit more (2.82 lb vs 2.54 lb) and is taller (9.813 inches vs 8.0 inches), while still keeping the same 1/2‑inch chuck size. The Kobalt KDD524B is considerably heavier at 4.67 lb, making the DeWalt a lighter choice for prolonged handheld work.

Users consistently praise the drill’s compact head and reliable power output, noting that the 404 in‑lb torque feels comparable to corded models. Reviewers also like the built‑in LED light, though the 20‑second delay is mentioned as a minor annoyance when you need instant illumination. A common criticism is the maximum speed of 1,650 RPM, which falls short of the 2,000 RPM found in some higher‑end rivals, and the included 2.0 Ah battery can run out quickly on demanding jobs.

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

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

TL;DR: The Milwaukee M12 Fuel 1/2" Hammer Drill packs 22,500 IPM and 400 in‑lbs of torque into a 6.0‑inch, 2.2‑lb body, delivering premium‑class power in a sub‑compact 12 V package.

The standout spec is its 22,500 impacts per minute paired with a peak torque of 400 in‑lbs, numbers that rival many larger‑voltage drills while staying under a foot long. At just 6.0 inches in length and 2.2 lb weight, it slips into tight crawl spaces that bulkier tools can’t reach.

Compared with the other ten drills in this roundup, the M12 is lighter than the DeWalt DCD777D1 (2.82 lb) and far lighter than the 8.44‑lb Worx 20V model, yet only a shade heavier than the DeWalt DCD794’s 2.54 lb. Its 6.0‑inch length matches the DCD794 but is noticeably shorter than the 12.5‑inch DeWalt DCD777D1, the 7.5‑inch Kobalt, and the 7.8‑inch Worx, giving it a clear edge for confined jobs. The 1/2‑inch all‑metal keyless chuck matches most peers except the Worx’s 1/4‑inch and HYCHIKA’s 3/8‑inch chucks, offering broader bit compatibility than those smaller options.

Users repeatedly praise the drill’s portability and the low fatigue from its lightweight design, noting that the integrated LED light shines just where you need it. Professional reviewers call out the POWERSTATE brushless motor and REDLINK PLUS intelligence as reasons the tool feels “more powerful than its size suggests.” The most common drawback mentioned is the 12 V platform’s limited raw power for heavy‑duty demolition, and the clutch dial’s fine‑adjustment can feel finicky when drilling metal.

Best for: Professionals and DIYers who need a well‑reviewed, lightweight hammer drill with a 1/2‑inch chuck and high impact rate – the Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hammer Drill delivers that balance of power and portability.

TL;DR: The Makita XPH12Z packs a brushless 18 V motor, 530 in·lb max torque and up to 50 % longer runtime into a compact 2.8‑lb, 7.1‑inch tool that excels in tight‑space jobs.

What really stands out is the 530 in·lb of maximum torque delivered by the BL™ brushless motor, paired with a two‑speed gearbox that reaches 0‑2,000 RPM on high and 0‑500 RPM on low. The “Runtime Improvement” claim of up to 50 % longer per charge means you’ll stay productive between charges, a benefit highlighted by professional reviewers.

Compared with the other ten drills in this roundup, the XPH12Z sits in the middle of the weight range – it’s lighter than the Worx 20 V (8.44 lb) but heavier than the Milwaukee M12 Fuel (2.18 lb) and DeWalt DCD794 (2.54 lb). Its 1/2‑inch keyless chuck outmatches the Worx’s 1/4‑inch size, and the 530 in·lb torque exceeds Milwaukee’s 400 in·lb and HYCHIKA’s 410 in·lb. The high‑speed rating of 2,000 RPM also tops the DeWalt DCD777D1’s 1,650 RPM, while the tool’s 7.13‑inch length and 9.5‑inch height keep it shorter than the DeWalt DCD777D1’s 12.5‑inch length.

Users and experts alike praise the XPH12Z’s compact form factor and the dual LED lights that illuminate tight work zones. Reviewers note the brushless motor’s cooler operation and the all‑metal gear housing as signs of durability. The main trade‑off mentioned is the mechanical speed switch, which can wear over time, and the fact that the drill is sold tool‑only, so you’ll need a compatible 18 V LXT battery and charger.

Beyond torque and speed, Makita adds Extreme Protection Technology and Star Protection to guard against dust, water and temperature spikes. The rubberized soft grip and metal belt hook give it a professional feel, while the 18 V LXT lithium‑ion platform ensures compatibility with a wide range of Makita batteries.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high-quality option — the Makita XPH12Z offers Chuck Size: 1/2 inch

TL;DR: The DeWalt DCD794 packs a brushless 20 V motor, 1,650 RPM max speed and a 1/2‑inch keyless chuck into a 2.54 lb, 8‑inch‑tall tool for $76, earning a 4.7‑star rating from 93 reviewers.

What really stands out is the brushless motor paired with a maximum speed of 1,650 RPM and three‑speed variable‑trigger control. Combined with 15 clutch‑setting torque options, the drill delivers smooth power for drilling, driving and hammering tasks while keeping the battery draw efficient.

Compared with the other ten drills in this roundup, the DCD794 is lighter than the Kobalt KDD524B’s 4.67 lb body and far lighter than the Worx 20V’s 8.44 lb package. It’s only a shade heavier than the Milwaukee M12 Fuel’s 2.18 lb unit, but it offers a 3‑speed selector where Milwaukee provides just two speeds. The DEKO PRO 20V model weighs a comparable 2.5 lb, yet its chuck is only 3/8 inch, making the DeWalt’s 1/2‑inch capacity more versatile for larger fasteners. Height‑wise, the DCD794’s 8.0 inches sit below the Kobalt’s 9.5 inches and the DeWalt DCD777D1’s 9.8 inches, giving it a more compact profile for tight spaces.

Users repeatedly praise the drill’s strong power upgrade over 12 V predecessors and the bright LED work light that shines into dim corners. Reviewers also note the high bit‑retention of the keyless ratcheting chuck. On the flip side, a handful of owners mention occasional stalling when tackling oversized fasteners, and some wish for an extra speed setting to match higher‑end competitors.

Best for: Entry‑level buyers or those on a tight budget — the DeWalt DCD794 offers Chuck Size: 1/2 inch (13 mm).

Avoid if: You want the best value‑per‑dollar in its price range.

TL;DR: The Kobalt KDD524B delivers 650 in‑lbs of torque with a 2.0 Ah 24‑V brushless motor, but its 4 lb weight can feel hefty during extended overhead work.

The standout spec is the 650 in‑lbs of max torque, powered by a brushless 24‑V motor that also runs a 2‑speed gearbox (0‑550 RPM / 0‑2,000 RPM). Coupled with a 2.0 Ah lithium‑ion battery, the drill can handle heavy‑duty drilling and fastening without bogging down.

Compared with the other ten drills, the Kobalt is noticeably heavier than the DeWalt DCD777D1 (2.82 lb) and the Milwaukee M12 Fuel (2.2 lb) but lighter than the Worx 20V model, which tips the scales at 8.44 lb. It offers more clutch positions (22) than the DeWalt DCD777D1 and DCD794, both listing 15 positions, giving you finer control for delicate tasks. Its 9.5‑inch height matches the Makita XPH12Z, while its 1/2‑in keyless chuck is a common size across the lineup.

User sentiment highlights the drill’s raw power and long runtime, with professional reviewers praising the brushless motor’s durability on demanding steel‑penetration jobs. Everyday owners, however, frequently mention the 4 lb weight as a fatigue factor during prolonged overhead use, and a few note a slight inconsistency in the listed clutch‑setting count (22‑23 positions).

Additional technical context includes a reversible side handle for better leverage, a built‑in LED work light for low‑light jobs, and a 5‑year limited warranty on the tool plus a 3‑year warranty on the battery. The all‑metal keyless chuck and 24‑Volt Max platform round out a solid feature set for contractors who need torque without sacrificing battery life.

Best for: Entry-level buyers or those on a tight budget — the Kobalt KDD524B offers Battery Capacity: 2.0 Ah

Avoid if: You want the best value-per-dollar in its price range

TL;DR: The Worx 20V Cordless Drill packs 445 in·lb of torque, a brushless motor and a 1/4‑inch dual‑rotating chuck into a compact 7.6‑inch body, earning a 4.8‑star rating from 54 reviewers.

The standout spec is its 445 in·lb max torque paired with a brushless motor that runs up to 1,700 RPM. A dual‑rotating 1/4‑inch chuck lets you flip between drill and driver bits in seconds, and the built‑in LED work light shines directly on the job. The tool weighs just 2.79 lb with its battery, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, while the digital clutch offers nine precise torque settings.

Compared with the other ten drills in this roundup, the Worx sits a touch heavier than the Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hammer Drill (about 2.18 lb) but is on par with the Makita XPH12Z’s 2.8 lb. Its 1/4‑inch chuck is smaller than the 1/2‑inch chucks found on most peers, which means it won’t accept larger bits that the others can. Speed‑setting wise it matches the Milwaukee’s two‑speed range, yet it provides fewer clutch positions than models that list 15‑plus settings.

Everyday users praise the quick‑change chuck and the comfortable rubberized grip, noting that the drill feels balanced even during longer DIY projects. Professional reviewers highlight that the brushless motor delivers full power despite the tool’s reduced size, and the digital clutch’s nine settings make torque adjustments feel “click‑free.” However, the limited 1/4‑inch chuck and the modest clutch count are common complaints, especially for anyone needing heavy‑duty steel drilling.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the Worx 20V Cordless Drill 445 in offers Chuck Size: 1/4 inch

TL;DR: The HYCHIKA 16.8V brushless drill delivers 45 Nm (410 in‑lb) of torque, a 3/8‑inch keyless chuck and LED work light for under $40, making it a solid entry‑level tool.

The standout spec is its 45 Nm (410 in‑lb) maximum torque, which puts it in the same league as many mid‑range drills despite the modest $35.99 price tag. Coupled with a brushless motor and a 16.8 V lithium‑ion battery, the tool promises efficient power delivery and reduced heat buildup.

When you line it up against the other ten drills, a few differences emerge. The DEKO PRO 20V is listed at a very compact 2.0 inches tall and 2.0 inches wide, while the HYCHIKA measures 8.0 inches in height and 6.0 inches in width, giving it a larger grip surface. Both share a 3/8‑inch keyless chuck, but larger‑chuck rivals like Kobalt and DeWalt DCD794 use 1/2‑inch chucks. In terms of torque, the HYCHIKA’s 410 in‑lb beats the Milwaukee M12 Fuel’s 400 in‑lb peak torque. Its top speed of 1,500 RPM is just under the 1,650 RPM listed for the DeWalt DCD794, and it offers two speed settings versus the three‑speed system on that DeWalt model.

Professional reviewers note that the brushless motor and 45 Nm torque make the drill “an ultimate compact power tool for beginners and DIYers,” especially for light wood and plastic work where variable speed control shines. Users also appreciate the built‑in LED light for tight spaces. The main criticism is the lack of published battery runtime or charge‑time data, which makes it harder to gauge how long the drill will last on a single charge. Additionally, the manufacturer does not list the tool’s weight, so portability is harder to assess.

Best for: Entry-level buyers or those on a tight budget — the HYCHIKA 16.8V Drill offers a 3/8‑inch chuck and solid torque in a compact package.

Avoid if: You need verified long‑run battery life or a tool for heavy professional construction tasks.

TL;DR: The Festool CXS 12 delivers a feather‑light 1.54 lb design, 2.5 Ah battery, and 13 torque settings, making it a premium‑priced but highly precise cordless drill for tight‑space work.

Weighing just 1.54 lb and measuring 177 mm tall, 156 mm long and 137 mm wide, the CXS 12 is built for overhead and confined‑area tasks. Its 2.5 Ah lithium‑ion pack supplies up to 12 V (10.8 V nominal) and the FastFix 3/8" keyless chuck lets you swap bits without tools.

Compared with the other ten drills, the Festool is lighter than the Fein ASCM (2.87 lb) and the Makita XPH12Z (2.8 lb), while still packing a larger 2.5 Ah battery than the DeWalt DCD777D1’s 2.0 Ah pack. Its top speed of 0‑1600 RPM sits just below the Milwaukee M12 Fuel’s 1700 RPM, offering comparable high‑speed capability without the extra heft.

Professional reviewers praise the drill’s “extremely compact and lightweight design” and the tool‑free FastFix system for tight‑space work. Everyday users echo this, noting the low‑profile ergonomics and integrated LED for visibility. The main trade‑off is the 30 Nm (265.5 in‑lb) max torque, which some users find limiting on heavy‑duty jobs, and the 2.5 Ah battery may need more frequent swaps during long sessions.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the Festool CXS 12 offers Battery Capacity: 2.5 Ah

Avoid if: You're on a tight budget or only need basic functionality, especially for heavy‑duty tasks that demand higher torque

TL;DR: The Fein JMC Magforce 90 packs a 1,182.756 in‑lb torque motor and a 2,248 lb magnetic hold into a compact 6.6‑in high, 18.75‑lb unit, ideal for tight‑space metal work.

This magnetic base drill’s standout spec is its 2,248 lb magnetic holding force, which far exceeds the pull of most handheld drills and lets you work on vertical or overhead steel without wobble. Coupled with a brushless motor that delivers 1182.756 in‑lb of torque, the unit runs at a steady 130‑660 RPM and can sustain a 100 % duty cycle, meaning you can stay on task without frequent cool‑downs.

Compared with the 11 other drills in this roundup, the JMC Magforce 90 is considerably heavier and larger. It weighs 18.75 lb, whereas the DEKO PRO 20V cordless drill is only 2.5 lb and the Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hammer Drill is about 2.2 lb. Its 11.4‑in width also dwarfs the 2‑in width of the DEKO and the roughly 3‑in width of the DeWalt DCD794. Even the larger Kobalt KDD524B, at around 4 lb, is far lighter. The trade‑off is that the Fein is corded, giving it a constant power source that the battery‑operated peers lack.

Professional reviewers praise the compact 6.6‑in height for reaching into cramped frames, and they note the safety tilt sensor that shuts off the motor if the unit tilts too far. Users also highlight the onboard Allen‑key storage and the variable‑speed trigger for fine control. The main criticism is the 1‑3/8 in drilling capacity, which limits the tool to smaller holes than larger magnetic drills can handle.

Best for: Professionals who need a high‑holding‑force magnetic drill that can fit into confined metal‑working areas.

Avoid if: You require larger hole sizes or a cordless tool for off‑grid jobs.

TL;DR: The Fein ASCM 18-4 QM packs a 4‑speed metal gearbox, 1,151 in‑lb max torque and 4,000 RPM speed into a 2.87‑lb brush‑less cordless drill, but it comes at a premium price.

This model’s standout spec is its 1,151 in‑lb of maximum torque paired with a 4,000 RPM no‑load speed, giving you metal‑working power that few cordless drills can match. The QuickIN 1/2‑inch chuck delivers a 1,062 in/lb clamping force, and the tool can reach up to 60,000 impacts per minute on its highest setting, making it exceptionally fast for drilling and hammering tasks.

At 2.87 lb, the Fein is heavier than the Festool CXS 12 (2.0 lb) and Milwaukee M12 Fuel (2.2 lb), yet it sits right alongside the Makita XPH12Z (2.8 lb) and DeWalt DCD777D1 (2.82 lb). It is lighter than the Worx 20V (8.44 lb) and Kobalt KDD524B (4.67 lb). While the price tag of $349.95 is higher than the Makita or Milwaukee options, the all‑metal gearbox and QuickIN system give it a level of specialization that most budget‑friendly rivals lack.

Professional reviewers praise the brushless PowerDrive motor for its durability and note the 30% efficiency gain over brushed designs. Users also love the dimmable LED work light and the rapid‑swap QuickIN accessories, which let you switch between drilling, tapping and countersinking without changing tools. The downside that pops up in both expert and consumer feedback is that the drill ships as a bare tool—you’ll need to buy compatible AMPShare batteries and a charger separately, which adds to the overall cost.

The tool’s COOLPACK 2.0 battery technology promises 135% longer life than standard Li‑ion packs, and the spec sheet claims up to 900 screw connections per battery charge, a figure that professionals find useful on long job sites. The telescopic auxiliary handle and 16‑position clutch give fine control, while the kickback monitoring adds a safety layer for demanding metal‑working jobs.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the Fein ASCM 18-4 QM offers Compatible Battery Voltage: 18V

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $349.95