Best Budget Screwdrivers and Drill Drivers Under $50

TL;DR: The Avid Power 20V MAX Drill delivers 280 in‑lb torque, a 1.5 Ah battery and 22 accessories for just $39.99, making it a surprisingly powerful, value‑packed option for DIY projects.

This drill packs a 20 V lithium‑ion pack with a 1.5 Ah capacity and a peak power rating of 300 W, giving it a respectable 280 in‑lb of max torque. At roughly 2.2 lb, the tool feels light enough for extended use, while the ergonomic rubber grip and LED work light keep comfort and visibility high. A real‑time battery indicator lets you see remaining charge at a glance, and the included USB output adds a handy charging option for small devices.

Compared with the eight other models in this roundup, the Avid Power unit sits near the top of the price bracket but is heavier than most entry‑level competitors, many of which weigh under 2 lb. Its 22‑piece accessory kit is larger than the handful of bits supplied with several rivals, though it doesn’t reach the 80‑piece count of the Enertwist set. Torque-wise, the 280 rating outstrips many budget drills that list lower torque figures, giving it an edge for light‑to‑medium fastening tasks.

Reviewers consistently praise the drill’s lightweight feel, long‑lasting battery and the value of the included flexible shaft and driver bits. Homeowners report smooth performance on furniture assembly and simple wood projects. Professional reviewers, however, note that the drill stalls and overheats when tackling thick wood with spade bits or when drilling sheet steel, and it lacks a hammer function for masonry work.

Technical details round out the package: a speed range of 0‑550 RPM, a 3/8‑in keyless chuck, and max drilling diameters of 0.4 in in steel and 0.8 in in wood. The 18 A amperage rating and the LED work light round out a tool that feels capable for most household tasks while staying within a modest budget.

Best for: Beginner DIYers and homeowners who want a proven tool with 280 in‑lb of torque and a comprehensive accessory set.

Avoid if: You need masonry drilling, heavy‑duty performance on thick wood or metal, or a tool primarily for professional use.

TL;DR: The WORKPRO 12V cordless drill offers 177 in‑lbs of torque, a 35‑minute runtime and a full set of bits for just $36.99, making it a solid, lightweight option for casual DIY projects.

This pink‑handled drill runs on a 12 Volt lithium‑ion battery and delivers a peak torque of 177 in‑lbs through 18+1 torque settings and a 2‑speed variable transmission (0‑1500 RPM high, 0‑400 RPM low). It comes with a keyless 3/8 inch auto‑locking chuck, forward/reverse control, a front LED light, and a storage bag. The package includes a bit holder, ten 1‑inch CR‑V bits, six twist drill bits, and a charger.

At 1.8 lb, the WORKPRO is a bit heavier than the 1.5‑lb Worx WX255L but still lighter than the 1.95‑lb Milwaukee M12, placing it comfortably in the mid‑weight range. Its 177 in‑lbs of torque dwarfs the Worx’s 44 in‑lbs and exceeds the Black+Decker BDCD8C’s modest output, while matching the 1.5 Ah (1500 mAh) battery capacity of the Worx. The price point sits alongside the Avid Power 20V MAX Drill, offering comparable value without the premium tag.

Everyday users love the lightweight feel (1.8 lb) and the ergonomic pink grip, noting that it reduces fatigue during one‑handed use. Reviewers also highlight the generous accessory set as a major convenience for beginners. The main drawback mentioned is the 35‑minute battery life, which can feel limiting on longer projects, and the 12 V platform may fall short for heavy‑duty construction work.

Technical details include a 6 Amp motor, a 0.4 A charging current, and a 3/8 inch keyless chuck with auto‑locking spindle. The drill’s front LED illuminates work areas, and the forward/reverse switch makes it easy to switch between driving and drilling tasks.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the WORKPRO Cordless Drill offers Included Bits: 10 1" CR-V bits (PH1/PH2/PH3, 1/8"/5/32"/3/16"/1/4", T10/T15/T20)

Avoid if: You have limited desk space or need portability

TL;DR: The Black+Decker BDCDD12C is a compact 12 V cordless drill with a 1.5 Ah battery, LED light and 11‑position clutch, but its modest power and long charge time keep it in the light‑duty camp.

What really stands out is the drill’s size: at 8.13 in tall, 9.38 in long and 2.75 in wide it fits into tight corners that larger tools can’t reach. The total weight of 2.8 lb (2.18 lb without the battery) makes it easy to maneuver for extended periods, and the anti‑slip soft grip adds comfort during those repetitive screw‑driving tasks.

Compared with the eight other tools in this roundup, the BDCDD12C is heavier than the Enertwist (1.13 lb) and the Worx WX255L (1.5 lb), but lighter than the Avid Power 20V MAX Drill (around 2.19 lb). Its 1.5 Ah lithium‑ion battery matches the capacity of the Worx and the Black+Decker BDCD8C, yet the 480‑minute charge time is considerably longer than the 1.5‑hour charge of the Worx or the 3‑5‑hour window of the Enertwist. The drill’s 0‑550 RPM single‑speed motor is on par with the Avid Power’s speed range, but reviewers note that it feels under‑powered for tougher jobs.

Everyday users love the built‑in LED work light that shines when the trigger is pulled, and the keyless 3/8‑inch chuck lets you swap bits without tools. Professional reviewers praise the 11‑position clutch for preventing stripped screws, while the battery’s ability to retain 80 %+ charge over 90 days (up to 18 months idle) reduces the need for frequent recharging. On the downside, the brushed motor and modest torque make metal drilling four times slower than competitors, and the long 480‑minute charge cycle can be a hassle for quick‑fix scenarios.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high‑quality option — the Black+Decker BDCDD12C offers Battery Capacity: 1.5 Ah

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

TL;DR: The Worx WX255L packs a 4 V, 1.5 Ah battery, 44 in‑lbs of hard‑torque and dual LEDs into a 1.5‑lb, 5‑inch‑tall body for light‑duty DIY work at a modest $34.99 price.

What really stands out is the 4 V lithium‑ion pack delivering 1.5 Ah of capacity and a full charge in just 1.5 hours, giving you up to 45 minutes of runtime before the low‑battery indicator lights up. The tool also offers three torque settings and a max hard torque of 44 in‑lbs, enough for most household fastening tasks.

At 1.5 pounds, the WX255L is a touch heavier than the Black+Decker BDCD8C (1.32 pounds) but lighter than Milwaukee’s M12 screwdriver (1.95 pounds) and the Avid Power 20V MAX Drill (over 2 pounds). Its 1.5 Ah battery matches the capacity of several peers such as Black+Decker BDCS50C and WORKPRO’s drill, yet its 300 RPM no‑load speed is modest compared with the 400 RPM of the Black+Decker BDCD8C and the 0‑500 RPM range of Milwaukee.

User sentiment repeatedly praises the built‑in rapid‑reload cartridge, the bright dual LEDs and the convenience of USB‑C charging. Professional reviewers highlight the ergonomic inline grip and the progressive low‑battery lights as helpful for tight‑space work. Common complaints focus on the limited torque for larger fasteners and the need for two‑handed operation because of the push‑button switch.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry-level option — the Worx WX255L offers Battery Capacity: 1.5Ah

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $34.99

TL;DR: The Black+Decker BDCS50C packs a 1.5 Ah lithium‑ion battery, an 8‑bit rotating storage cartridge and a lightweight 1.419 lb frame into a budget‑friendly 4V cordless screwdriver.

This model’s standout feature is the integrated rotating ROTO‑BIT cartridge that holds eight commonly used bits, letting you swap bits without rummaging through a separate case. At 11.74 in tall, 8.05 in long and just 1.419 lb, it feels compact enough to carry in a toolbox or a small bag, and the built‑in LED work light brightens tight spaces.

Compared with the other eight tools in the roundup, the BDCS50C is lighter than the Milwaukee M12 (1.95 lb) and the WORKPRO Cordless Drill (1.8 lb), but a bit heavier than the Hi‑Spec Electric Screwdriver (0.7 lb). Its 1.5 Ah battery matches the capacity of the Worx WX255L and the Black+Decker BDCD8C, yet its 960‑minute charge time is considerably longer than the Worx’s 1.5‑hour charge and the BDCD8C’s 540‑minute charge. The max speed of 180 RPM is lower than the BDCD8C’s 400 RPM and the Milwaukee’s 0‑500 RPM range, placing it firmly in the light‑duty segment.

Reviewers consistently praise the convenience of the rotating bit storage and the long‑term charge retention that can hold a charge for up to 18 months when the tool sits idle. Professional reviewers note that the on‑board magnetic holder speeds up bit changes during quick jobs. However, many users point out that the 4V motor and 180 RPM limit make the screwdriver struggle with tougher materials, and the 960‑minute charge cycle can be inconvenient if you need the tool on short notice.

Best for: Budget‑conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the Black+Decker BDCS50C offers Battery Capacity: 1.5 Ah

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

TL;DR: The Black+Decker BDCD8C is an ultra‑light 8 V cordless drill with a 1.5 Ah battery, 400 RPM motor, and a 3/8‑inch keyless chuck, all for $34.99, making it a solid entry‑level tool for light household jobs.

The standout spec is its 1.32‑pound weight, which makes the BDCD8C feel almost weightless in the hand. Powered by an 8 V MAX brushed motor, it spins up to 400 RPM and runs off a 1.5 Ah lithium‑ion cell, offering enough runtime for typical DIY tasks while staying comfortably light.

Compared with the other eight tools in this roundup, the BDCD8C is lighter than the Worx WX255L (1.5 lb) and the Milwaukee M12 (1.95 lb), and also lighter than the WORKPRO Cordless Drill (1.8 lb). It is heavier than the Hi‑Spec Electric Screwdriver (0.7 lb) but still well under the Avid Power 20V MAX Drill (2.19 lb). Its 8 V voltage sits below the Milwaukee’s 12 V and the Avid Power’s 20 V, which explains the lower torque output noted by users.

Reviewers consistently praise the drill’s “extreme lightness” and “easy handling,” calling it perfect for beginners, apartment dwellers, and anyone who needs a tool that won’t cause fatigue during overhead work. The same feedback highlights two recurring drawbacks: the low power makes it struggle with dense wood or metal, and the single‑speed trigger offers less precise control than multi‑speed models. The 540‑minute (nine‑hour) initial charge time and the non‑removable battery also draw criticism from users who want quicker swaps on the job.

From a technical standpoint, the BDCD8C features a brushed motor, a keyless 3/8‑inch chuck, and a forward/reverse 3‑position switch. Its ergonomic mid‑handle design improves grip during prolonged use, and the included jack‑plug micro‑USB‑style charger keeps the charging setup simple. The battery is integrated and non‑removable, which simplifies the tool but limits flexibility for swapping cells.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry-level option — the Black+Decker BDCD8C offers Battery Capacity: 1.5 Ah

TL;DR: The Enertwist ET‑CS‑8 offers an 8V, 10Nm torque driver with a 1500 mAh battery, 82‑piece kit and LED light, but its fixed speed and $41.99 price keep it niche.

The standout spec is the 10Nm (88 in.lbs) maximum torque, which lets you fasten wood, plastic and light‑gauge metal without stalling. A 1500 mAh lithium‑ion battery promises up to 300 M4 × 40 mm screws per charge, and the tool ships with an 82‑piece accessory set that includes 68 × 25 mm bits, 6 × 50 mm bits and six nut drivers.

At 1.13 lb, the Enertwist is lighter than the Avid Power 20V MAX Drill (over 2 lb) and the Milwaukee M12 screwdriver (about 2 lb), yet heavier than the ultra‑light Hi‑Spec electric screwdriver (0.7 lb). Its 11.0‑inch length and 1.7‑inch height keep it compact for tight spaces, while the price of $41.99 sits above several sub‑$40 models in this roundup.

Consumers repeatedly praise the bright LED, which has its own switch, and the dual‑position handle that flips between inline and pistol‑grip for better leverage. Professional reviewers note the quick‑change 1/4″ hex chuck and the 21 + 1 clutch settings as useful for precise fastening. The fixed single speed of 230 RPM, however, is often described as sluggish when larger fasteners are involved.

The tool runs on an 8V DC motor and delivers a single fixed speed of 230 RPM, matching the no‑load speed listed in the specs. The 1/4″ hex chuck accepts a wide range of bits, and the 21 + 1 clutch positions give you fine torque control despite the lack of variable speed.

Best for: DIY homeowners and hobbyists who need a portable driver with a large bit set – the Enertwist includes 68 × 25 mm and 6 × 50 mm bits.

Avoid if: You need heavy‑duty drilling, variable speed, or a lower‑cost tool for occasional basic tasks.

TL;DR: The Milwaukee M12 2401‑20 delivers 150 in‑lbs of torque in a 6.5‑7 in, 2 lb package, but you’ll need a separate battery and it sits at $34.99.

What really sets this screwdriver apart is its 12 VDC motor paired with a max torque of 150 in‑lbs and a no‑load speed range of 0‑500 RPM. The tool‑only configuration keeps the bare‑tool weight at 2.0 lb, and the 6.5‑7 in length lets you reach into tighter spots that bulkier drills can’t. A 1/4" hex quick‑change chuck handles steel bits up to 1/4" and wood bits up to 1/2", while the over‑mold T‑handle grip and built‑in LED add comfort and visibility.

Compared with the eight peers in this roundup, the Milwaukee is heavier than the Worx WX255L (1.5 lb) and the Black+Decker BDCD8C (1.32 lb), but it also offers far more torque than the Worx’s 44 in‑lbs and the Black+Decker’s modest torque figures. Its length of 6.5‑7 in is longer than the ultra‑compact Worx (3.8 in) yet still shorter than the full‑size Avid Power 20V MAX Drill, which tops the list with 280 in‑lbs of torque but carries a larger 2.2 lb body. In short, Milwaukee lands in the middle: more power than entry‑level drivers, but not the raw force of premium 20 V drills.

User sentiment highlights the screwdriver’s “compact” feel and the convenience of the LED light for dark workspaces. Professional reviewers point out that the 14 clutch settings plus a dedicated drill mode give fine control for precision fasteners, while the variable‑speed trigger lets you dial in speed without sacrificing torque. The main drawback noted is the tool‑only setup; you’ll have to buy a compatible M12 battery and charger separately, which adds to the overall cost.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the Milwaukee M12 Cordless Screwdriver offers Max Torque: 150 in‑lbs

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $34.99

TL;DR: The Hi‑Spec Electric Screwdriver packs a 1300 mAh battery, 26‑piece bit set and a feather‑light 0.7 lb body into a $22.99 package, making it a solid entry‑level choice for light screwdriving tasks.

What really sets this tool apart is its ultra‑light construction – the driver itself weighs just 145 g (about 0.32 lb) and the whole package is only 0.7 pounds, far lighter than the other eight tools, which range from roughly 1.3 lb to over 2 lb. That lightweight feel, combined with a 32 mm ergonomic grip, lets you work one‑handed for extended periods without fatigue.

Compared with its peers, the Hi‑Spec offers a surprisingly generous accessory kit: 26 CR‑V steel bits (HRC 52‑56) cover Phillips, Pozidriv, Slotted, Torx, Hex and Square types, outnumbering many competitors that ship with six to ten bits. Its 1/4‑inch magnetic hex chuck also matches the standard size found on higher‑priced models, while the Micro‑USB charging port refills the 1300 mAh battery in just 90 minutes – a fraction of the several‑hour charge times listed for most rivals.

Users consistently praise the tool’s convenience for everyday projects like assembling PC cases, tightening eyeglass hinges or fixing toys. Reviewers highlight the bright LED light and the smooth 200 RPM speed as helpful for precision work. However, professional testers note the modest 3 Nm torque and the 200 RPM cap can struggle with larger or overtightened screws, and some owners mention the plastic housing feels cheap and the trigger can be overly sensitive.

Best for: Budget‑conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the Hi‑Spec Electric Screwdriver offers Battery Capacity: 1300 mAh.

Avoid if: You need high torque for heavy‑duty projects or a tool that can double as a drill.