Best Budget Drills Under $100

TL;DR: The Black+Decker LDX120C delivers 20 V MAX power, 115 in‑lbs torque and a lightweight 3.15 lb build, making it a solid entry‑level drill for everyday DIY tasks.

This model’s standout spec is its 20 V MAX voltage paired with a brushed motor that produces 115 in‑lbs of torque, while the keyless 3/8‑inch chuck lets you swap bits quickly. An integrated LED work light shines directly on the screw or hole, which reviewers say is handy in dim spaces. The 1.5 Ah lithium‑ion battery holds a charge for up to 18 months and reaches a full charge in 60 minutes.

Compared with the other nine drills in this roundup, the LDX120C is lighter than the Black+Decker BDCDMT120C (3.8 lb) and the DEWALT DWD115K (4.1 lb), but it isn’t as light as the DEKO PRO 20V (2.5 lb) or the Avid Power 20V MAX (≈2.19 lb). Its maximum speed of 650 RPM sits below the BDCDMT120C’s 800 RPM and the DEKO PRO’s 1 350 RPM, yet it still outpaces the Avid Power’s 550 RPM range. In terms of clutch settings, it matches the 11‑position count found on the BDCDMT120C, while offering a variable‑speed trigger that many users appreciate for fine‑tuning screw driving.

Consumer feedback highlights the drill’s compact size and the convenience of the LED light, especially for hanging pictures or assembling furniture in tight spots. Users also note the ease of the keyless chuck and the long‑term battery retention. On the flip side, professional reviewers point out that the brushed motor may not last as long as brushless alternatives, and the single‑speed 650 RPM range can feel limiting on tougher materials. The price tag of $61.15 is higher than some entry‑level competitors, which some buyers mention as a trade‑off for the included battery and bits.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the Black+Decker LDX120C offers Battery Capacity: 1.5 Ah.

Avoid if: You need advanced features or professional‑grade performance, such as higher RPM, brushless motors, or heavy‑duty torque.

TL;DR: The Avid Power 20V MAX Drill packs a 20 V, 1.5 Ah battery, 280 in‑lb torque and a 22‑piece kit into a 2.19‑lb lightweight body, making it a solid entry‑level choice for light DIY tasks.

The drill runs on a 20 V lithium‑ion pack rated at 1.5 Ah, delivering up to 280 in‑lb of torque and a maximum speed of 550 RPM. Its 3/8‑inch keyless chuck lets you swap bits quickly, while the built‑in LED work light shines on tight spaces. At just 2.19 lb, the ergonomic rubber grip keeps fatigue low during extended use.

Compared with other models in this roundup, the Avid Power unit is lighter than the Black+Decker BDCDD12C (2.8 lb) and only slightly heavier than the DEKO PRO 20V Cordless Drill (2.5 lb). It also bundles a generous 22‑piece accessory set, which outstrips the more modest kits listed for many peers.

Reviewers consistently applaud the lightweight feel and the real‑time battery indicator that helps you avoid surprise run‑outs. However, several users note that the drill stalls and overheats when tackling thick wood or sheet steel, and the lack of a hammer function makes it unsuitable for masonry. Professional reviewers echo these points, calling the tool “under‑powered for heavy‑duty work.”

From a technical standpoint, the drill can bore up to 10 mm (0.39 in) in steel and 20 mm (0.79 in) in wood, covering most household projects. The variable‑speed trigger gives you fine control across the 0‑550 RPM range, and the keyless chuck simplifies bit changes on the fly.

Best for: Budget‑conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the Avid Power 20V MAX Drill offers Battery Capacity: 1.5

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

TL;DR: The Craftsman CMCK200C2 packs a brushless motor, 1700 in‑lbs of torque and 3800 IPM impact speed into a lightweight 11‑inch tool that outperforms many pricier rivals.

What really stands out is the impact driver’s 3800 IPM peak rate and a max torque of 1700 in‑lbs, both driven by a brushless motor that the manufacturer claims adds 30 % more power and 25 % more runtime. The drill side delivers 350 UWO of power and two speed settings, while the combo includes three LEDs around the chuck for bright, hands‑free illumination.

Compared with the other nine drills in this roundup, the Craftsman is taller at 11.0 inches versus the DeWalt DCD777D1’s 9.813 inches and the Milwaukee M12’s 7.8 inches. Its weight of 0.000625 lb makes it lighter than the DeWalt (2.82 lb) and Milwaukee (2.18 lb) units, and its 2 Ah battery capacity exceeds the 1.5 Ah packs found in several Black+Decker models. In the torque department, it dwarfs the Milwaukee’s 400 in‑lbs and the Black+Decker’s 115 in‑lbs, giving DIYers a clear advantage for tougher fasteners.

Everyday users rave about the reliable run‑time and the three‑LED lighting that keeps the work area visible in dim spaces. Professional reviewers note the brushless motor’s efficiency and the pro‑level torque, but they also warn that the variable‑speed trigger can be overly sensitive, leading to occasional bit breakage. A handful of owners mention that the tool isn’t quite up to the task of loosening heavy automotive lug nuts, so it shines best on woodworking, deck building and general home repairs.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high‑quality option — the Craftsman CMCK200C2 offers Battery Capacity: 2Ah

Avoid if: You're on a tight budget or only need basic functionality

TL;DR: The Black+Decker BDCDD12C is a lightweight 12 V cordless drill with a 3/8‑inch keyless chuck, 1.5 Ah battery, and 11‑position clutch, offering solid value for basic DIY tasks.

The drill weighs just 2.18 lb and measures 8.13 in tall, 9.38 in long and 2.75 in wide, making it easy to slip into tight spaces or a small toolbox. A pistol‑style handle and an anti‑slip soft grip add control, while a trigger‑activated LED work light brightens dark corners. Its 12 V brushed motor runs at 0‑550 RPM and the single‑speed gearbox is paired with 11 clutch positions for precise screw driving.

Compared with its peers, the BDCDD12C is lighter than the Black+Decker BDCDMT120C (3.9 lb) and the Black+Decker LDX120C (3.15 lb). It shares the same 1.5 Ah lithium‑ion battery capacity as the BDCDMT120C, LDX120C and the DEKO PRO 20V, but its maximum speed of 550 RPM is lower than the DEKO PRO’s 0‑1350 RPM and the BDCDMT120C’s 800 RPM. While its price sits below many of the other ten‑product lineup, the trade‑off is a modest power output that suits light‑duty work.

Users consistently praise the ultra‑compact design and the fact that the battery holds over 80 % charge for up to 90 days and up to 18 months in storage. Reviewers also like the convenience of the keyless 3/8‑inch chuck and the bright LED light. Professional reviewers note the drill’s “exceptionally compact” form factor and the effectiveness of the 11‑position clutch in preventing screw stripping. The main criticism is the motor’s limited torque, which can stall when tackling hole saws, spade bits or metal fasteners, and the relatively long 8‑hour charge time.

Technical details round out the picture: a 12 V MAX (10.8 V nominal) lithium‑ion battery, an 8‑hour charge cycle, a brushed motor, and a single‑speed setting. The inclusion of a double‑ended bit and a side handle adds a bit of versatility for quick household fixes.

Best for: Budget‑conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the Black+Decker BDCDD12C offers Chuck Size: 3/8 inch

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

TL;DR: The Black+Decker BDCDMT120C offers a 20V MAX brushed motor, 800 RPM, and a 3/8‑inch keyless chuck, all wrapped in a lightweight 3.9 lb design with a quick‑swap MATRIX system.

The standout feature is the MATRIX Quick Connect system, letting you snap between drill, impact and sanding attachments without tools. Powered by a 20V MAX (nominal 18V) brushed motor, it spins up to 800 RPM and drives a 3/8‑inch keyless chuck, while the built‑in LED lights the work area. At 3.9 lb, the unit stays easy to maneuver, and the variable‑speed trigger gives you fine control for light‑to‑medium tasks.

Compared with the other nine drills in this roundup, the BDCDMT120C is heavier than the Black+Decker LDX120C (3.15 lb) and the Black+Decker BDCDD12C (2.8 lb), yet lighter than the DEWALT DWD115K (4.1 lb). Its 8.8‑inch height sits between the LDX120C’s 7.68 in and the DEWALT DWD115K’s 9 in, while its 11.3‑inch length is longer than the LDX120C’s 9.4 in but shorter than the Craftsman’s 15.5 in. The 800 RPM max speed outpaces the LDX120C’s 650 RPM but falls short of the DEKO PRO’s 1,350 RPM and the Milwaukee M12 Fuel’s 1,700 RPM, placing it solidly in the mid‑range for speed.

Users consistently praise the quick‑connect feature for cutting down tool‑change time on DIY projects, and the compact form factor earns compliments for comfort in tight spaces. Professional reviewers note that the brushed motor and 800 RPM ceiling limit its usefulness on heavy‑duty construction work, and the 1.5 Ah battery may need more frequent recharges during extended use. Still, for most home‑improvement jobs—driving deck screws, assembling furniture, or light drilling—the unit delivers reliable performance.

Technical details round out the package: a 1.5 Ah lithium‑ion battery stores 30 Wh of energy and holds a charge for up to 18 months, but requires 180 minutes to fully charge. The 11‑position clutch and LED illumination add versatility, while the variable‑speed trigger lets you dial in the exact speed you need.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the Black+Decker BDCDMT120C offers Chuck Size: 3/8-inch

Avoid if: You need professional‑grade torque or heavy‑duty performance

TL;DR: The DEKO PRO 20V Cordless Drill delivers 350 in‑lb of torque, a 1.5 Ah lithium‑ion battery and an LED work light in a lightweight 2.5 lb, 3/8‑inch keyless design, making it a strong budget choice.

This drill’s standout spec is its 350 in‑lb maximum torque paired with a brushless 20 V motor that spins up to 1 350 RPM on the high‑speed setting and 350 RPM on low. It offers a 2‑speed transmission, variable‑speed trigger, and an LED work light for better visibility. At just 2.5 lb, the pistol‑grip tool feels easy to handle, and the included 1.5 Ah battery, charger and a 10‑piece bit set let you start a project right out of the box.

Compared with the other nine drills in this roundup, the DEKO PRO is heavier than the Avid Power 20V MAX’s 2.19 lb body but pushes more torque than that model’s 280 in‑lb. It matches the Black+Decker BDCDD12C’s 3/8‑inch chuck size while being slightly lighter than its 2.8‑lb weight. Unlike the single‑speed Black+Decker BDCDMT120C, which tops out at 800 RPM, the DEKO PRO reaches a higher 1 350 RPM, giving it a broader speed range for different tasks.

Users consistently praise the drill’s compact size, the convenience of the LED work light, and the value of the included bits and magnetic holder. Reviewers also note the brushless motor’s efficiency, which translates to longer run time per charge. The main criticisms focus on the 350 in‑lb torque ceiling, which can feel limiting for heavy‑duty jobs, and the 1.5 Ah battery that may need more frequent recharging during extended use. Professional reviewers highlight the tool’s suitability for light‑ to medium‑duty DIY projects while flagging it as less ideal for demanding construction work.

The plastic housing keeps the weight down but may not feel as rugged as metal‑cased competitors. With 18+1 torque (clutch) settings, a keyless 3/8‑inch chuck and a pistol‑grip handle, the DEKO PRO balances control and ease of bit changes, making it a practical addition to a beginner’s toolkit.

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

TL;DR: For just $9.99, the Craft911 Pin Vise delivers a 0.09‑lb aluminum body, a keyless 0.6‑3.0 mm chuck and 18 HSS micro‑bits, making it a solid, ultra‑light choice for hobby‑level precision drilling.

The most eye‑catching spec is its featherweight construction: the tool weighs only 0.09 lb (41 g) and measures 101.6 mm long, 19.05 mm high and 19.05 mm wide. Its keyless chuck accepts bits from 0.6 mm to 3.0 mm, and the package ships with 18 high‑speed‑steel micro‑twist bits, so you can start drilling tiny holes straight out of the box.

Compared with the nine other drills in this roundup, the Pin Vise is dramatically lighter. The DEKO PRO 20V cordless drill tips the scales at 2.5 lb, while the Avid Power model registers 2.19 lb and the Black+Decker options range from 2.8 lb up to 3.9 lb. In other words, the Craft911 is a fraction of the mass of every battery‑powered competitor, and it also lacks any battery, motor or electronic features those models list.

Reviewers consistently praise how cleanly the tool punches holes in delicate materials such as resin, wood, plastic and even seashells. Professional YouTubers note the smooth, one‑handed twisting action and the soft‑shaft grip that helps keep the drill steady. Users do warn that the bits will snap if you press too hard, and the manual nature means a steady hand is essential for the best results. It’s therefore ideal for jewelry makers, miniature builders and anyone who needs precise micro‑drilling without the noise or bulk of a power drill.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the Craft911 Pin Vise offers Included Drill Bits: 18 pieces

TL;DR: The DeWalt DCD777D1 packs a brushless 404 UWO motor, a 1/2‑inch ratcheting chuck and a 2.0 Ah battery into a 2.82‑lb, compact drill that feels premium but carries a higher price tag.

What really sets this drill apart is the brushless motor that delivers 404 UWO of power while keeping the tool under 3 lb. The 1/2‑inch ratcheting metal chuck adds professional‑grade bit retention, and the 6.38‑inch tool‑head length lets you reach tight spots that bulkier drivers can’t.

Compared with the nine other drills in our roundup, the DCD777D1 is heavier than the ultra‑light Craftsman CMCK200C2 (which weighs just 0.000625 lb) and the Black+Decker BDCDD12C at 2.8 lb, but it’s still lighter than the DEWALT DWD115K’s 4.1 lb frame. Its 1/2‑inch chuck is larger than the 3/8‑inch chucks found on most Black+Decker models, matching the Milwaukee M12 Fuel’s 1/2‑inch size. The 1,650 RPM no‑load speed tops the Black+Decker LDX120C’s 650 RPM but sits just below Milwaukee’s 1,700 RPM, giving it a solid middle ground. Battery capacity of 2.0 Ah outpaces the 1.5 Ah packs listed for the Black+Decker units, though the Milwaukee kit doesn’t disclose its capacity.

Reviewers consistently praise the drill’s compact head and the reliability of its ratcheting chuck, noting that it feels “job‑site ready” for both DIY and professional tasks. Professionals highlight the brushless motor’s efficiency and the 15‑position clutch that lets you fine‑tune torque. The downside that pops up in user feedback is the lower top speed of 1,650 RPM, which some power‑users find limiting for high‑speed drilling, and the fact that the included 2.0 Ah battery may run out faster during heavy, continuous work.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high‑quality option — the DeWalt DCD777D1 offers Battery Capacity: 2.0 Ah

Avoid if: You're on a tight budget, need the highest possible RPM, or require advanced connectivity features not found on this model

TL;DR: The Milwaukee M12 Fuel 1/2‑in. hammer drill packs 400 in‑lb of torque and 22,500 IPM into a 6‑in. long, 2.2‑lb body, delivering professional power at a $99.99 price.

What really sets this tool apart is its 400 in‑lb peak torque paired with 22,500 impacts per minute, all driven by a POWERSTATE brush‑less motor. The 1/2‑in. keyless ratcheting chuck and 2‑speed gearbox give you fine control, while the integrated LED lights the work area.

Compared with the nine other drills in this roundup, the M12 is notably more compact—its 6.0‑in. length and 2.1‑2.25‑in. width make it easier to reach tight spots than the bulkier DeWalt DCD777D1 or Black+Decker models, which are all over 7 in. long. At 2.2 lb (tool only) it’s also lighter than the DeWalt DCD777D1 (2.82 lb) and the Black+Decker options (3 lb+), positioning it as one of the lightest choices despite a premium price tag.

Everyday users rave about the drill’s portability and low fatigue, noting that the compact size lets them work comfortably in cramped spaces. Reviewers also highlight the surprising power for a 12 V tool, especially in wood, metal, and light masonry. The only recurring gripe is the clutch dial, which some say demands precise adjustment for metal drilling, and a few wish the 12 V platform offered more torque for the toughest jobs.

Professional reviewers point out the all‑metal gearcase and chuck, the REDLINK PLUS intelligence that safeguards performance, and the 17+ clutch positions that fine‑tune torque delivery. With a max speed of 1,700 RPM and a pistol‑grip handle, the drill balances speed and control for tradespeople who need a reliable, sub‑compact hammer drill.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high-quality option — the Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hammer Drill offers Chuck Size: 1/2 inch

TL;DR: The DEWALT DWD115K packs an 8.0‑amp, 650‑watt motor with a 2,500 RPM variable‑speed trigger and a 3/8‑inch all‑metal keyless chuck for heavy‑duty, corded drilling at $75.12.

What really stands out is the 8.0‑amp motor that pushes 650 watts of power through a 2,500 RPM variable‑speed trigger. Paired with a 3/8‑inch all‑metal ratcheting keyless chuck, it holds bits securely while you crank through wood, metal, or masonry. The metal housing and all‑ball‑bearing design add rugged durability, and the 8‑foot cord gives you plenty of reach in a workshop.

Compared with the other nine drills in this roundup, the DWD115K is noticeably heavier at 4.1 lbs versus the Black+Decker LDX120C’s 3.15 lbs or the Milwaukee M12 Fuel’s 2.18 lbs. It also delivers far more torque—650 in‑lbs versus the LDX120C’s 115 in‑lbs—and a max speed of 2,500 RPM, dwarfing the 650 RPM of the LDX120C and the 800 RPM of the Black+Decker BDCDMT120C. While many competitors are cordless, the DWD115K’s corded power source eliminates battery worries and provides consistent performance for prolonged tasks.

User feedback highlights the drill’s raw power and the confidence‑boosting metal chuck, especially for demanding fastening jobs. Reviewers also note the variable‑speed trigger as a handy way to dial in the right speed for different materials. The main criticism is the cord, which ties you to an outlet and can be a hassle on job sites that require mobility. Additionally, the drill offers only two clutch settings, fewer than the 11‑position clutches found on some cordless rivals.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high‑quality option — the DEWALT DWD115K offers Chuck Size: 3/8 inch

Avoid if: You have limited desk space or need portability