Best Cordless Drills with Built‑in LED Work Light

TL;DR: The Black+Decker LDX120C packs a 20V MAX motor, 115 in‑lbs of torque and an 11‑position clutch into a 3.15‑lb, LED‑lit drill that’s ideal for light‑duty DIY projects.

The standout spec is its 115 in‑lbs of torque paired with a maximum speed of 650 RPM, driven by a 20V MAX (nominal 18V) brushed motor and a 1.5 Ah lithium‑ion battery. An 11‑position clutch lets you dial in torque for screws, while the keyless 3/8‑inch chuck speeds up bit changes. At 7.68 in tall, 9.4 in long and 2.6 in wide, the drill stays compact enough to fit into tight spaces, and the built‑in LED work light brightens dark corners.

Compared with the other nine drills in this roundup, the LDX120C sits in the same budget tier as the Ryobi ONE+ HP model, which also targets entry‑level users. It’s a touch heavier than the Ryobi’s 2.1 lb body, but its 3.15 lb weight is almost identical to the Pulituo 12V drill’s 3.09 lb. In terms of torque, the Pulituo pushes 168 in‑lbs, noticeably more than the Black+Decker’s 115 in‑lbs, while the Ryobi boasts a higher 400 in‑lbs. However, the LDX120C’s 20V MAX battery system offers broader ecosystem compatibility than the Pulituo’s 12V platform.

User feedback repeatedly praises the drill’s lightweight feel and the convenience of the LED light for dim work areas. Homeowners also like the 18‑month charge retention, which means the battery stays ready for occasional projects. Professional reviewers, however, note that the brushed motor isn’t as efficient or long‑lasting as brush‑less alternatives, and the single‑speed range (650‑800 RPM) can feel limiting when faster drilling is needed. The 11‑position clutch helps mitigate over‑torquing, but the overall torque may fall short on tougher jobs.

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

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

TL;DR: The Craftsman CMCK200C2 packs a brushless motor, 1700 in‑lbs of impact torque and 2 Ah of battery life into a surprisingly lightweight $99 drill‑driver‑impact set.

The standout spec is the impact driver’s max torque of 1700 in‑lbs, paired with a peak impact rate of 3800 IPM. A brushless motor delivers the advertised 30% power boost and 25% longer runtime, letting you finish up to 90 holes on a single charge.

At just 0.00 pounds, the CMCK200C2 feels dramatically lighter than the Greenworks 24V (2.6 pounds) and the Pulituo 12V (about 3.09 pounds). Its 11.0‑inch height and 15.5‑inch length also make it longer than the compact Greenworks (6.0 in length) but comparable to the Craftsman CMCD714D1 (11.0 in length). The 2‑speed drill gearbox and 3‑speed impact gearbox give it more versatility than the single‑speed Porter‑Cable, while its 3‑LED chuck lighting outshines the LED work light on the Porter‑Cable model.

Everyday users praise the combo for dependable DIY performance, especially the bright surrounding LEDs that keep the work area visible in dim spaces. Reviewers also highlight the one‑handed quick‑release chuck for fast bit swaps. On the flip side, the variable‑speed trigger is noted for being overly sensitive, which can lead to over‑torquing and broken bits if you’re not careful. Professional reviewers agree the torque is solid for most home projects but stop short of heavy‑duty automotive work.

Additional technical context includes a 2‑speed drill gearbox (0‑350 RPM low, 0‑1,500 RPM high) and a 3‑speed impact gearbox (up to 0‑2,900 RPM). The set ships with two 2 Ah batteries, a 20 V MAX (nominal 18 V) platform, and a keyless 1/2‑inch chuck, all backed by a three‑year limited warranty.

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

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

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

What really stands out is the 310 in‑lbs of max torque delivered by a brushless motor, paired with a 2.0 Ah 24 V lithium‑ion battery that charges in 45‑90 minutes. The drill spins up to 2700 RPM, yet stays compact at 6.0 in long, 8.0 in tall and only 2.6 lb, so you can work overhead without fatigue.

Compared with the other nine tools in this roundup, the Greenworks model is heavier than the Ryobi ONE+ HP Drill (2.1 lb) and the Bosch GSB18V‑65N (2.5 lb), but lighter than the Porter‑Cable 20V MAX (3.5 lb) and the Black+Decker LDX120C (3.15 lb). Its 310 in‑lbs torque exceeds the Pulituo 12V drill’s 168 in‑lbs but falls short of the Ryobi’s 400 in‑lbs, placing it squarely in the middle of the performance spectrum. The 1/2‑inch keyless chuck is larger than the Pulituo’s 3/8‑inch chuck, giving you more bit flexibility.

Users consistently praise the power‑to‑weight ratio, noting that the drill handles wood and metal without bogging down and feels comfortable during ceiling work. Reviewers also like the built‑in LED work light and the USB‑enabled battery that shows charge level. The main complaints revolve around the charger’s basic design—no dock‑style storage—and the battery draining quickly on larger jobs, which professional reviewers flag as a limitation for all‑day construction use.

Technically, the brushless motor improves efficiency and longevity, while the 19‑position clutch and 2‑speed gearbox give fine control from low‑speed 0‑380 RPM up to high‑speed 0‑1450 RPM. The keyless ratcheting chuck, contoured rubber over‑mold handle and 3‑year limited warranty round out a tool aimed at homeowners who want reliable performance without the bulk of a professional unit.

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 heavy‑duty, all‑day runtime for professional construction or continuous high‑torque tasks

TL;DR: The Makita XPH12Z delivers 530 in‑lbs of torque, up to 50 % longer runtime, and a compact 7.125‑in body, making it a premium‑grade drill that feels at home in tight, demanding jobs.

What really sets this model apart is its 530 in‑lbs of maximum torque paired with a brushless motor that promises up to 50 % longer runtime per charge. The tool weighs just 2.8 lbs and measures 7.125 in in length, so you can swing it overhead or into cramped corners without fatigue. Dual LED work lights illuminate the job site, and the 0‑2,000 RPM no‑load speed range gives you two speed settings for both fast drilling and controlled driving.

Compared with the nine other drills in the roundup, the XPH12Z is a bit heavier than the Bosch GSB18V‑65N at 2.5 lbs and the Greenworks 24V Brushless at 2.6 lbs, but it’s far lighter than the Porter‑Cable 20V MAX at 6.9 lbs. Its 530 in‑lbs torque dwarfs the Black+Decker LDX120C’s 115 in‑lbs and even beats the Ryobi ONE+ HP’s 400 in‑lbs, while the dual LEDs give it more illumination than the single‑LED setups on several rivals. The tool‑only configuration means you’ll need to already own an 18 V LXT battery, a trade‑off you won’t face with the bundled kits at the lower end of the list.

Professional reviewers highlight the brushless motor’s efficient energy use and the all‑metal 2‑speed gearbox with a mechanical switch for reliability. Users consistently praise the compact form factor and the rubberized soft grip for comfort during prolonged use. The only recurring gripe is that the mechanical speed switch can wear over time, a point that seasoned DIYers keep an eye on. If you need a drill that can tackle wood, metal, and masonry without sacrificing reach, the XPH12Z’s 0.5 in keyless chuck and extreme protection technology make it a solid choice.

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

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

TL;DR: At $29.99, the Pulituo 12V cordless drill delivers 168 in‑lbs of torque, a 10 mm keyless chuck, and a full accessory kit, making it a surprisingly capable budget option for light home projects.

The standout spec is its 168 in‑lbs of maximum torque paired with a 12‑volt lithium‑ion battery, giving enough bite for most DIY screws and small holes. Weighing just 3.09 lb (1.40 kg) and measuring 8.0 in in length with a 58.4 mm height, it feels light enough to hold for extended periods, and the built‑in LED work light shines directly on the bit.

Compared with the other nine drills in this roundup, the Pulituo sits in the middle of the size‑and‑weight spectrum. It’s heavier than the Ryobi ONE+ HP Drill (2.1 lb) but lighter than the Porter‑Cable 20V MAX (3.5 lb). Its torque of 168 in‑lbs is lower than Ryobi’s 400 in‑lbs, yet higher than Black+Decker’s 115 in‑lbs, and its 10 mm (3/8‑inch) chuck is smaller than the 1/2‑inch chucks found on Ryobi, Porter‑Cable, and Greenworks. Speed‑wise it matches Black+Decker’s 650 RPM limit, while many premium models push well beyond 1,000 RPM.

User feedback highlights the drill’s “all‑in‑one” nature: the set ships with 10 driver bits, a range of drill bits, drywall anchors, and a flexible shaft extension, which reviewers say cuts down on extra purchases. The compact form reduces arm fatigue during ceiling‑light installs. On the downside, several owners note that the battery connection feels tight at first, and the lack of a charge‑indicator light can catch you off‑guard when the power drops.

The tool features a 21+1 position clutch for fine torque control and a variable‑speed trigger, letting you dial in the exact power needed for each material. Its keyless 10 mm chuck swaps bits quickly, and the LED work light is handy in dim spaces. The included charger and lithium‑ion cell round out a ready‑to‑go package for anyone tackling occasional home repairs.

Best for: Budget‑conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the Pulituo 12V Cordless Drill offers Chuck Size: 10 millimeters (3/8-inch)

Avoid if: You need a heavy‑duty drill for high‑torque construction work or high‑speed metal drilling.

TL;DR: The Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V drill packs 400 in‑lbs of torque, a brushless motor, and a lightweight 2.1 lb frame into a compact 6.4‑inch tool for under $61.

What really stands out is the 400 in‑lbs of maximum torque paired with a brushless motor that spins up to 0‑1,700 RPM on its high‑speed setting. The tool also offers a 23+1‑position clutch and a variable‑speed trigger, giving you fine control from a low 0‑450 RPM range up to full power.

Compared with the other nine drills in this roundup, the Ryobi is noticeably lighter at 2.1 lb versus the Black+Decker’s 3.15 lb and the Porter‑Cable’s 3.5 lb. Its torque of 400 in‑lbs dwarfs the Pulituo’s 168 in‑lbs and the Black+Decker’s 115 in‑lbs, while its top speed exceeds the Black+Decker’s 650 RPM and the Pulituo’s 650 RPM. The Ryobi also provides more clutch positions than the Black+Decker’s 11‑position and the Greenworks 18+1 setting, and it shares the same 1/2‑inch chuck size as the Porter‑Cable and Greenworks models.

Everyday users love how the single‑sleeve ratcheting chuck lets them change bits quickly, even with gloves on, and they repeatedly mention the plastic knurled grip as comfortable during overhead work. The built‑in LED worklight gets frequent praise for illuminating tight spots. On the flip side, reviewers note that the 400 in‑lbs torque, while strong for a compact drill, can feel limited on heavy‑duty projects, and the battery capacity isn’t listed, leading some to report frequent recharging on larger jobs.

The drill is part of Ryobi’s ONE+ ecosystem, meaning it swaps batteries with over 300 other tools. A three‑year limited warranty backs the unit, and the brushless motor is marketed for longer runtime and reduced heat buildup during extended use.

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

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

TL;DR: At $89.99, the Porter‑Cable 20V MAX 2‑inch drill packs a 283 UWO brushed motor, 2‑speed gearbox up to 1,500 RPM, and a lightweight 3.5 lb, 8.25‑in design—solid value for DIY tasks.

The drill’s most notable spec is its 2‑speed gearbox, offering a low range of 0‑350 RPM and a high range of 0‑1,500 RPM powered by a 283 UWO brushed motor. At just 3.5 lb and 8.25 in long, the tool feels compact enough to slip into tight spaces without sacrificing the 1/2‑inch keyless chuck you need for most household jobs.

Compared with the other nine models in this roundup, the Porter‑Cable sits on the heavier side—its 3.5 lb body outweighs the 2.6‑lb Greenworks 24V Brushless Drill and the 3.15‑lb Black+Decker LDX120C. It’s also longer than Greenworks’ 6‑inch length but shorter than Black+Decker’s 9.4‑inch profile, placing it in the middle of the size spectrum. Voltage-wise, its 20V MAX system lands between the 12V Pulituo and the 24V Greenworks offering, giving you a familiar power level without stepping up to premium voltages.

Everyday users repeatedly praise the drill’s easy handling and the built‑in LED work light that brightens dim corners. Reviewers also note that the brushed motor can feel a bit short on runtime when the job gets demanding, and a few mention occasional bit slip because the chuck isn’t ratcheting. Professional reviewers echo these points, highlighting the compact form factor as a strength but flagging the brushed motor as a trade‑off against brushless efficiency.

Technical details add a bit more context: the motor type is brushed, which typically means lower runtime compared with brushless rivals, and the tool includes a 20V MAX lithium‑ion battery compatibility slot. The LED work light and keyless chuck round out the feature set, making it a straightforward, no‑frills option for light‑to‑moderate tasks.

Best for: Entry-level buyers or those on a tight budget — the Porter‑Cable 20V MAX Drill 2 inch offers Chuck Size: 1/2 inch

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

TL;DR: The Craftsman CMCD714D1 packs a 20 V MAX brushless motor, 350 UWO power and a 2.0 Ah battery into a compact 11‑inch drill that delivers 77 holes per charge and a bright LED for tight‑space DIY work.

This model’s brushless RP motor pushes 350 UWO and, according to the specs, offers 40% more power than earlier Craftsman drills while extending runtime by 25%. With a 2.0 Ah battery it can drill up to 77 holes on a single charge, and the no‑load speed swings from 0‑600 RPM on low to 0‑1,900 RPM on high, giving you two speed settings for versatile control.

At 2.1‑2.8 lbs with the battery, the CMCD714D1 sits heavier than the Ryobi ONE+ HP Drill (2.1 lbs) but lighter than the Porter‑Cable 20V MAX (6.9 lbs). Its 11.02‑inch length is longer than the Makita XPH12Z (7.125 in) yet shorter than the Craftsman CMCK200C2 (15.5 in). The 6.2‑inch head is notably compact, a point reviewers love when working in cramped spots.

Users consistently praise the bright built‑in LED and the drill’s quick drilling speed, noting that the 19% faster rate versus Ryobi feels noticeable on everyday projects. Professional reviewers highlight the balanced feel and the efficiency of the brushless motor, while also warning that the variable‑speed trigger demands a steady hand to avoid over‑tightening. The tool is best suited for DIY tasks and light‑trade jobs, but it isn’t built for heavy‑duty lug‑nut removal.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the Craftsman CMCD714D1 offers Chuck Type: 1/2-inch keyless ratcheting

Avoid if: You're on a tight budget or only need basic functionality, or you need a drill for heavy‑duty automotive work.

TL;DR: The FLEX FX204 2‑inch delivers 1400 in‑lb of torque and a 5.0 Ah battery in a brushless, LED‑lit package, but its 17.64 lb weight and $349 price put it in the premium tier.

What really stands out is the 1400 in‑lb peak torque paired with a sensor‑free brushless motor, giving you strong drilling power without the heat buildup typical of brushed designs. The tool runs on a 5.0 Ah lithium‑ion pack and includes a 160 W fast charger, so you can keep working longer between charges. An integrated LED work light shines directly on the bit, helping you stay accurate in dim spaces.

At 17.64 lb, the FX204 is considerably heavier than the 2.5‑lb Bosch GSB18V-65N and the 2.8‑lb Makita XPH12Z that sit in the same roundup, and its overall length of 16.93 in makes it bulkier than many sub‑12‑V competitors. However, its 1400 in‑lb torque dwarfs the 115 in‑lb torque of the Black+Decker LDX120C and the 400 in‑lb torque of the Ryobi ONE+ HP Drill, positioning it as a true premium option.

Users appreciate the compact feel of a 24 V system that fits in a hand size similar to 12 V tools, and reviewers highlight the anti‑kickback feature as a confidence‑boosting safety element for professional use. The cross‑compatible battery ecosystem means the same packs work across other FLEX 24 V tools, and the limited lifetime warranty adds peace of mind for long‑term owners.

Technical details reinforce its professional pedigree: a keyless 0.5 in chuck, 22‑position clutch, and 2‑speed selector let you fine‑tune power delivery, while THERMA‑TECH heat management is claimed to extend runtime by about a quarter compared with standard designs.

Best for: Professionals and serious DIYers who need high torque and robust features — the FLEX FX204 2‑inch offers Tool Count: 2 Tools

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $349.00

TL;DR: The Bosch GSB18V-65N delivers 575 in‑lbs (65 Nm) of torque in a compact 6.9‑in, 2.5‑lb brushless hammer drill, but its premium $139 price and bare‑tool setup may limit casual buyers.

This model’s headline spec is the 575 in‑lbs (65 Nm) max torque from a brushless motor, paired with 20‑position clutch control and dual LED worklights for clear visibility in dim spots. At 6.9 in overall length and 2.5 lb weight, it fits comfortably in tight job‑site corners while still handling heavy‑duty drilling.

Compared with the nine other drills in this roundup, the Bosch sits near the lighter end: it’s lighter than the Makita XPH12Z (2.8 lb) and far lighter than the Porter‑Cable 20V MAX (6.9 lb), yet a touch heavier than the Ryobi ONE+ HP (2.1 lb). Its 8.2‑in height is shorter than Makita’s 9.5 in and roughly equal to the Craftsman CMCD714D1’s 8.7 in. Torque-wise, 575 in‑lbs outpaces the Black+Decker LDX120C (115 in‑lbs) and Ryobi’s 400 in‑lbs, and it exceeds the Pulituo’s 168 in‑lbs, positioning Bosch as one of the most powerful options.

Professional reviewers highlight the balanced power‑to‑size ratio, noting that the switchable KickBack Control and all‑metal keyless chuck add safety and durability for daily use. Users appreciate the fine‑tuned 20‑position clutch for precise driving, though several comments point out that the drill is sold as a bare tool, so you’ll need to buy a compatible 18 V battery and charger separately. The 4.2‑star rating from 12 reviews sits below the top‑rated peers, suggesting mixed satisfaction despite the strong specs.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the Bosch GSB18V-65N offers Clutch Settings: 20

Avoid if: Reliability and user satisfaction are your top concerns