Best Cordless Drills with Brushless Motor

TL;DR: The DEWALT DCD996B delivers 2,100 in‑lbs of torque, a brushless motor and a 70‑lumen 3‑mode LED, making it a premium‑priced, high‑performance drill for demanding jobs.

What really sets this drill apart is its 2,100 in‑lbs of max torque combined with a brushless motor that runs up to 2,000 RPM. The 0.5 in metal ratcheting chuck with carbide inserts handles tough bits, while the 70‑lumen LED work light and 20‑minute auto‑shutoff keep the job site well lit.

Compared with the other ten drills in this roundup, the DCD996B is heavier than the Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hammer Drill (2.2 lb) and the Greenworks 24V Brushless Drill (2.6 lb), but it offers a higher torque figure than the Milwaukee M18 FUEL (1,400 in‑lbs) and the Bosch GSR12V‑140FCB22 (265 in‑lbs). It also carries a longer runtime claim of up to 275 holes per charge, which is positioned as a 75% improvement over older 18V NiCad models.

Users consistently praise the drill’s ability to stay steady in tight spaces, thanks to the integrated anti‑rotation kickback control. Professional reviewers highlight the bright, adjustable LED and the compact 4.0 in overall length as real‑world advantages on job sites. The main complaint revolves around the tool‑only setup, meaning you’ll need to purchase a compatible 20 V battery separately, and the higher $239.00 price tag can be a hurdle for budget‑focused buyers.

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: At $27.54 the DEKO PRO 20V Cordless Drill delivers a brushless motor, 350 in‑lb max torque and a full‑kit of accessories in a lightweight 2.5‑lb package, making it a solid entry‑level choice for DIY tasks.

The standout spec is its brushless 20 V motor that produces a maximum torque of 350 Inch Pounds and a two‑speed transmission ranging from 0‑350 RPM low to 0‑1350 RPM high. Coupled with a 1.5 Ah lithium‑ion battery and a 300 W power rating, the drill offers efficient power delivery for light‑ to medium‑duty projects. The keyless 3/8 inch chuck and 18+1 torque settings give you fine control without needing extra tools.

Compared with the other ten drills in this roundup, the DEKO PRO sits in the middle of the weight spectrum: it’s heavier than the 1.9‑lb SKIL 12V Compact Drill and the 2.1‑lb Ryobi ONE+ HP Drill, but lighter than the 2.6‑lb Greenworks 24V Brushless Drill and comparable to the 2.5‑lb DEWALT DCD777B. Its 350 in‑lb torque matches the SKIL model but falls short of Ryobi’s 400 in‑lb and Milwaukee’s 400 in‑lb, and is well below DEWALT’s 530 in‑lb. The chuck size is also smaller—3/8 inch versus the 1/2 inch chucks found on most peers—so it’s best suited for smaller fasteners.

User feedback highlights the drill’s ease of use and the value of the included 10‑piece bit set, magnetic holder and charger. Reviewers appreciate the compact 2.0‑inch dimensions and the LED worklight that brightens tight spaces. On the downside, several users note that the 1.5 Ah battery can run out quickly on longer jobs and that the 350 in‑lb torque limits performance on tougher materials. Professional reviewers echo this, calling it an economical option for home projects but not a replacement for heavy‑duty tools.

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 Milwaukee M12 Fuel 1/2" Hammer Drill packs 400 in‑lbs of torque, 22,500 IPM and a brushless motor into a 2.2‑lb, 6‑in compact body, earning a 4.7‑star rating from 1,800 users.

What really sets this tool apart is its 22,500 impacts per minute paired with a peak torque of 400 in‑lbs, all driven by Milwaukee’s POWERSTATE brushless motor and REDLINK PLUS intelligence. The all‑metal gearcase and keyless ratcheting 1/2" chuck keep the drivetrain robust while the variable‑speed trigger gives you fine control from 0 to 1,700 RPM.

Compared with the other ten drills in the roundup, the M12 is noticeably lighter and more compact. At 2.2 lb it undercuts the DeWalt DCD794B (≈2.47 lb) and the Greenworks 24V (≈2.6 lb), and its 6.0‑in length is shorter than the DeWalt DCD777B’s 7.5‑in front‑to‑back dimension. The width of 2.1‑2.25 in also beats the Makita XPH12Z’s 7.8‑in width, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. Only the SKIL 12V Compact Drill is lighter (≈1.9 lb), but it delivers 350 in‑lbs of torque versus Milwaukee’s 400 in‑lbs.

Users consistently highlight the drill’s portability – the 2.2‑lb weight reduces fatigue during extended jobs, and the 6‑in length slips into cramped conduit or electrical boxes. Reviewers also note the surprising power for a 12 V tool, especially when drilling wood, metal, or light masonry. A recurring complaint is the clutch dial’s need for precise adjustment, which can feel finicky in metal‑drilling applications. Professional reviewers point out that, while the 12 V platform limits raw power for heavy‑duty work, the balance of compactness and torque makes it the most capable sub‑compact hammer drill available.

The drill rounds out its feature set with 17+ mechanical/E‑clutch positions, two speed settings, an integrated LED light, and an all‑metal pistol‑grip handle. Battery compatibility spans the whole M12 ecosystem, so you can swap batteries with over 125 other Milwaukee tools, keeping your jobsite kit streamlined.

Best for: Professionals and tradespeople who need a well‑reviewed, reliable hammer drill with a 1/2" chuck in a lightweight, sub‑compact package.

Avoid if: Your projects demand the raw power of 18 V or 20 V platforms, or you need a tool that excels in heavy‑duty concrete drilling.

TL;DR: The Greenworks 24V Brushless Drill packs 310 in‑lbs of torque, a 2.0 Ah lithium‑ion battery and a compact 2.6‑lb frame, making it a solid mid‑range choice for DIY projects.

The standout spec is its 310 in‑lbs of max torque delivered by a brushless motor, which lets you drive large self‑feed bits without the motor bogging down. Combined with a 2.0 Ah 24 V lithium‑ion pack, the drill offers enough punch for most wood and metal tasks while staying lightweight at 2.6 lb.

Compared with the ten other drills in this roundup, the Greenworks sits in the middle of the pack. It’s heavier than the SKIL 12V Compact Drill (1.9 lb) but lighter than the Makita XPH12Z (2.8 lb). Its 8.0‑inch height is taller than Milwaukee’s 7.8 inch model yet shorter than DeWalt’s 8.39‑inch DCD794B. Speed‑wise, its 2700 RPM max outpaces Milwaukee’s 1700 RPM and the DEWALT DCD777B’s 1600 RPM, though its torque of 310 in‑lbs trails the 400 in‑lbs of Milwaukee, the 350 in‑lbs of SKIL and the 530 in‑lbs of the DEWALT DCD777B.

Reviewers consistently praise the drill’s compact, narrow design and the comfort of its rubber‑overmolded grip, noting that overhead work feels less tiring. The LED work light and keyless 0.5‑in chuck are highlighted as handy for tight‑space jobs. Professionals point out that while the brushless motor gives efficient power, the runtime isn’t long enough for all‑day heavy use, and the basic charger lacks a dock‑style convenience.

Technical extras include a two‑speed gearbox (0‑380 RPM low, 0‑1450 RPM high), 19‑position clutch, variable trigger and a USB‑enabled battery with an LED fuel gauge. Charging takes between 45 and 90 minutes, and the battery’s 48 Wh energy density is higher than many 18 V or 20 V competitors.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the Greenworks 24V Brushless Drill offers Chuck Size: 1/2 inch

Avoid if: You need professional‑grade durability, all‑day runtime, or the highest torque available in this segment

TL;DR: The Makita XPH12Z delivers 530 in‑lb of torque, a brushless 18 V motor and dual LEDs in a compact 7.1‑in body, but you’ll need to buy batteries separately.

What really sets this drill apart is its 530 in‑lb of maximum torque, paired with a brushless 18 V LXT motor that the manufacturer claims can run up to 50% longer per charge. The 0‑2,000 RPM no‑load speed range and a high‑speed blow rate of 30,000 BPM give you plenty of power for wood, metal and masonry work.

At 2.8 lb (4.0 lb with battery) the XPH12Z is a bit heavier than the Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hammer Drill, which weighs about 2.18 lb, but it’s lighter than the DeWalt DCD777B that sits around 2.5–2.9 lb. Its 9.5‑in height also tops the 8.39‑in height of the DeWalt DCD794B and the 7.8‑in profile of the Milwaukee M12, giving you a longer reach when you need it. Like most of its peers, it shares a 0.5‑in keyless chuck, but it adds a 22‑position clutch that the Milwaukee M12’s 17+ positions can’t match.

Reviewers consistently praise the tool’s compact 7.125‑in overall length and rubberized soft grip, noting how easy it is to maneuver in tight spaces. Professional testers highlight the all‑metal gearbox and the dual LED work lights as solid upgrades for job‑site visibility. The only recurring critique is the mechanical speed switch, which some users say may wear faster than electronic alternatives, and the fact that the drill is sold tool‑only, so you’ll have to already own or buy a compatible 18 V battery.

The XPH12Z also packs Extreme Protection Technology—dust, water and drop resistance—plus Star Protection that monitors current, temperature and battery voltage. Its 22‑position clutch and dual LED lights round out a feature set aimed at professionals who need durability without sacrificing run‑time.

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

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

TL;DR: The DeWalt DCD794B packs a brushless motor, 15‑position clutch and a 5.88‑inch compact head into a 2.47‑lb drill, making it a solid mid‑range choice for tight‑space projects.

What really sets this drill apart is its ultra‑compact tool head—just 5.88 inches long—and a lightweight 2.47 lb body, both powered by a brushless motor that delivers 404 UWO. The 15‑position clutch and 2‑speed transmission give you fine torque control from 0 to 450 RPM on low and up to 1650 RPM on high.

Compared with the other ten drills in the roundup, the DCD794B sits in the middle of the weight spectrum: it’s heavier than the SKIL 12V Compact Drill at about 1.9 lb but lighter than the Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hammer Drill at roughly 2.18 lb. Its overall length of 6.5 inches is shorter than the Makita XPH12Z’s 7.13 inches, while the height of 8.39 inches is only a shade taller than Greenworks’ 8.0 inches. Unlike Milwaukee’s hammer‑drill model, the DCD794B does not offer a hammer function, which limits its use on masonry.

Professional reviewers highlight the brushless motor’s efficiency and the drill’s ability to reach cramped spots without sacrificing core performance. Home‑owner feedback echoes this, praising the LED work light and the precise clutch settings for everyday projects. The main criticisms focus on the lack of a hammer mode and a lower power output than Dewalt’s flagship XR models, making it less suitable for heavy‑duty contractor work.

Technically, the DCD794B runs on Dewalt’s 20 V MAX platform and works with over 300 tools in that ecosystem. An integrated LED work light illuminates the work area, while the no‑load speed range of 0 to 450 RPM (low) and 0 to 1650 RPM (high) pairs with a peak torque of 1 Nm (8.85 in‑lbs) for versatile drilling in wood, metal and plastics.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the DeWalt DCD794B offers Clutch Positions: 15

TL;DR: The Ryobi ONE+ HP Drill delivers 400 in‑lbs of torque in a 6.4‑inch, 2.1‑lb brushless package, offering compact power and an LED work light for DIY projects.

What really stands out is the 400 in‑lbs of maximum torque paired with a brushless motor, all housed in a tool that measures just 6.4 in long. The two‑speed gearbox (0‑450 RPM and 0‑1,700 RPM) and variable‑speed trigger let you dial in the right speed without sacrificing the 24‑position clutch.

Compared with the other drills in this roundup, the Ryobi is a bit heavier than the SKIL 12V Compact Drill’s 1.9 lb body, but lighter than the DEWALT DCD777B, which tips between 2.5 lb and 2.9 lb. Its 400 in‑lbs torque outmatches the SKIL’s 350 in‑lbs and ties the Milwaukee M12 Fuel’s 400 in‑lbs, yet it falls short of the DEWALT DCD777B’s 530 in‑lbs. In length, it’s slightly longer than the SKIL’s 6.06 in tool but shorter than the DEWALT’s 7.52 in front‑to‑back measurement.

Everyday users love how the drill squeezes into tight cabinets and overhead spots, noting the lightweight feel (2.1 lb bare tool) reduces fatigue during long sessions. The built‑in LED work light repeatedly gets praised for lighting dark job sites. On the flip side, reviewers mention the 400 in‑lbs torque can feel limiting when they move up to heavy‑duty projects, and the lack of a hammer function means it isn’t suitable for masonry.

The brushless motor not only boosts runtime but also keeps the unit cooler under continuous use, a point professional reviewers highlight as a key advantage. The 18 V ONE+ battery ecosystem gives you access to over 300 Ryobi tools, and the single‑sleeve ratcheting chuck makes bit changes quick even with gloves on.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry-level option — the Ryobi ONE+ HP Drill offers Chuck Size: 1/2 inch

TL;DR: The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2‑in. drill/driver packs 1400 in‑lbs of torque, a 2100 RPM brushless motor, and a compact 6.9‑in. length for pro‑level power at $179.98.

What really sets this tool apart is its 1400 in‑lbs of maximum torque delivered by a POWERSTATE brushless motor, while the no‑load speed tops out at 2100 RPM. The 0.5‑in. keyless chuck and 18 V lithium‑ion platform give you a solid grip on large fasteners, and the built‑in LED work light keeps the job site bright. A 5‑year limited factory warranty backs the motor and electronics, and the REDLINK PLUS intelligence plus Auto‑Stop™ mode add professional‑grade overload protection.

In the 11‑item roundup, the M18 FUEL sits at a premium price point of $179.98. It is heavier than the Makita XPH12Z, which weighs about 2.8 lb, yet noticeably lighter than the Bosch GSR12V‑140FCB22 that tips the scales at over 6 lb. Its 3.21‑lb weight is modest compared with the DEWALT DCD996B’s 4.0 lb, making it a good middle ground for users who want power without a bulk‑filled tool bag.

Customer sentiment reflects the high 4.7‑star rating from 411 reviews: reviewers repeatedly praise the “exceptional torque” and “ultra‑compact length” for reaching tight spaces. Professional reviewers highlight the Auto‑Stop feature as an industry‑leading safety aid, and the brushless motor’s durability is a common commendation. The main criticism is that the drill is sold as a bare tool, so you’ll need to buy an M18 battery and charger separately, and the lack of a hammer function means it’s not suited for masonry work.

Beyond raw numbers, the tool’s mechanical clutch with variable positions gives you fine control over torque delivery, and the DRIVE CONTROL™ modes let you switch between power‑focused and precision‑focused operation. The LED work light, while modest, is bright enough for dimly lit job sites, and the all‑metal chuck with carbide teeth adds extra durability for heavy‑duty applications.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Drill/Driver offers Chuck Size: 1/2 inch.

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $179.98.

TL;DR: The DEWALT DCD777B delivers 530 in‑lbs of torque in a lightweight 2.5‑2.9 lb, 7.52‑in package, with a brushless motor that adds up to 57 % more runtime.

The standout feature is its brushless motor, which the manufacturer claims provides up to 57 % more runtime compared with brushed alternatives. Paired with a 340 UWO output, the drill reaches a maximum of 1,600 RPM and delivers 530 in‑lbs of torque, giving you plenty of power for typical DIY tasks.

When you line it up against the other ten drills, the DCD777B sits in a similar weight class to the Greenworks 24V Brushless Drill (2.6 lb) and is a bit heavier than the SKIL 12V Compact Drill (1.9 lb) and Ryobi ONE+ HP Drill (2.1 lb). Its torque of 530 in‑lbs outpaces the Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hammer Drill (400 in‑lbs), the SKIL model (350 in‑lbs) and the Ryobi (400 in‑lbs). Speed-wise, its 1,600 RPM top speed is lower than Milwaukee’s 1,700 RPM and SKIL’s 1,700 RPM, but higher than Ryobi’s 450 RPM.

Users consistently praise the ergonomic comfort grip and the compact 7.52‑in overall length, noting that it slips easily into tight spaces and reduces hand fatigue. Professional reviewers also highlight the reliable drilling performance across wood, metal and masonry, while pointing out that the plastic ratcheting chuck may not hold up under heavy abuse. The 20‑second trigger‑release delay and built‑in LED work light are frequently mentioned as handy safety and visibility features.

Additional technical touches include 15 clutch‑position settings for precise torque control and a two‑speed transmission that lets you switch between low‑speed power and high‑speed drilling. The variable‑speed trigger and 20 V MAX (nominal 18 V) brushless motor round out a well‑balanced tool for entry‑level projects.

Best for: Entry-level buyers or those on a tight budget — the DEWALT DCD777B offers Chuck Size: 1/2 inch

TL;DR: The Bosch GSR12V-140FCB22 packs a 265 in‑lb brushless motor, 2.0 Ah battery and a 5‑in‑1 FlexiClick system into a feather‑light 1.4 lb, 12 V drill.

The standout feature is the FlexiClick 5‑in‑1 attachment system, which lets you switch between a keyless 1/4 in. chuck, a locking bit holder, a right‑angle, an offset angle and a magnetic bit holder without extra tools. Coupled with a brushless EC motor that delivers a maximum torque of 265 in‑lb, the drill feels powerful for its compact 7 in. height, 5.2 in. length and 2 in. width. The included 2 × 12 V 2.0 Ah lithium‑ion batteries give you decent runtime while keeping the overall weight at just 1.4 lb.

Compared with the other ten tools in this roundup, the Bosch is noticeably lighter than the Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hammer Drill (≈2.18 lb) and the Milwaukee M18 FUEL (3.21 lb), and far lighter than the DEWALT DCD996B (4.0 lb). Its torque of 265 in‑lb is modest next to the Milwaukee M18’s 1,400 in‑lb and the M12’s 400 in‑lb, reflecting the 12 V platform’s lower power ceiling. The 1/4 in. chuck is also smaller than the 1/2 in. chucks found on the Milwaukee and DEWALT models, making it ideal for tighter jobs but less suited for larger fasteners.

Users consistently praise the tool’s compactness and the convenience of the 5‑in‑1 system for cramped spaces such as cabinetry or electrical panels. Reviewers also note the quick‑change keyless chuck and the solid 21‑position clutch as professional‑grade touches. The most common criticisms focus on the 12 V platform’s limited power for heavy‑duty drilling and the absence of a lock‑on switch, which can lead to hand fatigue during longer tasks. Professional reviewers highlight the strong torque for its size and the lightweight build as major benefits.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high-quality option — the Bosch GSR12V-140FCB22 offers Chuck Size: 1/4 in.

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $189.05

TL;DR: The SKIL 12V Compact Drill packs 350 in‑lbs of torque into a 1.9‑lb, 6.06‑inch body, offering a brushless motor, LED light and USB‑C charging for tight‑space DIY tasks.

This drill’s standout spec is its 350 in‑lbs of max torque combined with a 2.0 Ah lithium‑ion battery, all driven by a digital brushless motor. The tool runs at 0‑450 RPM on low speed and 0‑1,700 RPM on high, and it offers two speed settings plus 18 clutch positions for precise control. An integrated LED provides pre‑light and after‑glow, while a USB‑C port enables 60 W two‑way charging.

At 1.9 lb, it’s lighter than the DEWALT DCD777B (2.5–2.9 lb) and the Ryobi ONE+ HP Drill (2.1 lb), making it the lightest among the eleven drills in this roundup. Its 6.06‑inch length is comparable to the Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hammer Drill (6.0 in) and a touch shorter than the Ryobi’s 6.4 in body, which helps in cramped spaces. However, its 350 in‑lbs torque falls short of the 400 in‑lbs offered by Ryobi and Milwaukee, and well below the 530 in‑lbs that the DEWALT DCD777B delivers.

Professional reviewers praise the ultra‑compact size and the light weight, noting that the LED and USB‑C convenience add real‑world usability. Everyday users echo the same sentiment, especially appreciating how easy the drill is to maneuver in tight spots. The main complaints focus on the 12 V platform’s limited power for heavy‑duty jobs and the lack of a hammer function, which some feel makes the tool feel unchanged from its predecessor.

Additional technical touches include a 20 W PD charger, a five‑year limited warranty, and a variable‑speed trigger that lets you dial in the exact speed you need. The single‑sleeve keyless chuck accepts 1/2 in bits, and the reversible belt clip adds flexibility on the job site.

Best for: Entry-level buyers or those on a tight budget — the SKIL 12V Compact Drill offers Battery Capacity: 2.0Ah

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