Best Cordless Drills

TL;DR: The Black+Decker LDX120C packs 20 V MAX power, 115 in‑lbs torque and a 1.5 Ah battery into a lightweight 3.15‑lb body, making it a solid entry‑level drill for everyday DIY.

The standout spec is its 20 V MAX voltage paired with 115 in‑lbs of torque, driven by a 1.5 Ah lithium‑ion cell that holds a charge for up to 18 months. A 650 RPM max speed and an 11‑position clutch give you enough control for light household projects, while the keyless 3/8‑inch chuck speeds up bit changes.

Compared with the other eleven drills in this roundup, the LDX120C is lighter than the Black+Decker BDCDMT120C (3.8 lb) but a touch heavier than the Ryobi ONE+ PCL206B (2.3 lb). Its 650 RPM ceiling sits below the BDCDMT120C’s 800 RPM and far under the Ryobi’s 1,750 RPM, and it offers fewer clutch positions than Ryobi’s 24‑position system. The built‑in LED work light is a feature many peers don’t list, giving it an edge for dim spaces.

Users consistently praise the drill’s compact feel and the handy LED illumination, noting that the battery’s long‑term retention reduces the hassle of frequent recharges. Professional reviewers flag the brushed motor as less efficient than brushless options and point out that the single‑speed range can feel limiting when higher speeds are needed. Those same reviewers appreciate the AutoSense torque‑adjustment technology that helps prevent over‑driving screws.

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

TL;DR: The Avid Power 20V MAX Drill packs a 1.5 Ah lithium‑ion battery, 280 in‑lb torque, LED work light and a 22‑piece kit into a lightweight 2.19‑lb body for just $39.99.

What really stands out is the combination of a 20 V, 1.5 Ah lithium‑ion pack and a max torque of 280 in‑lb, all while weighing only 2.19 lb. The keyless 3/8‑inch chuck and real‑time battery level display give you quick control, and the ergonomic rubber grip keeps fatigue at bay during longer projects. Included in the box are 22 accessories – ten drill bits, ten driver bits, an extension bar and a magnetic flexible shaft – so you can start most household tasks right out of the case.

Compared with the other 11 drills in this roundup, the Avid Power model sits in the middle of the weight range. It’s lighter than the Black+Decker BDCDMT120C (3.8 lb) and the Black+Decker LDX120C (3.15 lb), but a touch heavier than the Jar‑owl Cordless Drill (2.4 lb) and Ryobi ONE+ (2.3 lb). Its 1.5 Ah battery matches the capacity of most peers – Black+Decker BDCDD12C, DEKO PRO and Black+Decker LDX120C – and exceeds the Jar‑owl’s 1.3 Ah pack. Torque-wise, it trails the Ryobi’s 515 in‑lb but outperforms the Black+Decker LDX120C’s 115 in‑lb. Speed is modest at a max 550 RPM, lower than Ryobi’s 1,750 RPM high‑speed setting and Black+Decker BDCDMT120C’s 800 RPM, yet sufficient for the light‑duty jobs it targets.

User feedback repeatedly praises the drill’s lightweight feel and the value of the 22‑piece accessory set. Reviewers note that the LED work light and real‑time battery indicator make it easy to see work areas and avoid surprise power loss. Professional reviewers echo the ergonomic grip’s comfort and the long‑lasting battery life. However, many users report the drill stalls and overheats when tackling thick wood with spade bits, and it struggles with sheet steel, confirming the “under‑powered” sentiment for heavy materials. The lack of a hammer function also means it’s not suited for masonry or concrete drilling.

Technical details add further context: the drill can bore up to 10 mm (0.39 in) in steel and 20 mm (0.79 in) in wood, making it adequate for most DIY furniture assembly and light repairs. A USB output provides a handy charging option for small devices, while the electric brake stops the bit quickly for safer operation.

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

TL;DR: The Craftsman CMCK200C2 delivers a brushless motor, 1700 in‑lbs of torque and 3800 IPM impact speed at a $99 price, making it a top‑rated, feature‑rich cordless combo for DIY pros.

The standout spec is the 1700 in‑lbs of maximum impact torque paired with a brushless motor that claims a 30% power improvement. Combined with a peak impact rate of 3800 IPM, the set can drive large fasteners quickly without adding bulk.

At 11.0 inches tall, the drill is taller than DeWalt’s 9.813‑inch model and longer than Makita’s 8.6‑inch XFD10Z, while its 4.5‑inch width exceeds DeWalt’s 3.75‑inch profile. Despite a listed weight of 0.000625 lb, it is dramatically lighter than the DeWalt (2.82 lb) and Porter‑Cable (3.5 lb) units, giving it a very portable feel.

Users consistently praise the long runtime – the brushless motor delivers 25% more runtime than comparable brushed tools – and the three surrounding LEDs that brighten dark work areas. A common complaint is that the variable‑speed trigger can be overly sensitive, leading some DIYers to over‑torque and break bits. Professional reviewers also note that while the torque is ample for most home projects, it may fall short for heavy automotive jobs like lug‑nut removal.

Technically, the kit includes a 2 Ah, 20V MAX battery pack (nominal 18V) and a 2‑speed drill gearbox offering 0‑350 RPM and 0‑1,500 RPM ranges. The impact driver adds a 3‑speed gearbox with speed ranges of 0‑1,300 RPM, 0‑2,600 RPM and 0‑2,900 RPM, and a drill power rating of 350 UWO. The quick‑release, one‑handed chuck change and reversible belt hook add convenience for fast job changes.

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, need only basic functionality, or require heavy‑duty performance for automotive or continuous construction work

TL;DR: The Black+Decker BDCDD12C is a lightweight 12 V cordless drill with a 1.5 Ah battery, 3/8‑inch keyless chuck, 11‑position clutch, and an LED light, ideal for tight‑space DIY tasks.

This model packs a 12 V MAX brushed motor and a 1.5 Ah lithium‑ion battery into a compact frame that measures 8.13 in tall, 9.38 in long, and weighs just 2.18 lb. The keyless 3/8‑inch chuck and single‑speed 0‑550 RPM range keep the tool simple, while the 11‑position clutch helps prevent screw stripping.

Compared with the other eleven drills in the roundup, the BDCDD12C is among the lightest – it’s lighter than the Black+Decker LDX120C (over 3 lb) and the Jar‑owl Cordless Drill (2.4 lb), and only a shade lighter than the Avid Power 20V MAX Drill (about 2.19 lb). It also offers fewer clutch positions than the Ryobi ONE+ PCL206B’s 24‑position system and a lower top speed than Ryobi’s 1,750 RPM high‑speed setting, which explains the modest power output.

Users consistently praise the ultra‑compact size and the trigger‑activated LED work light for working in dark corners. Reviewers also note the battery’s impressive charge retention, holding over 80 % after 90 days and up to 18 months idle. Professional reviewers, however, point out that the brushed motor struggles with hole‑saw and spade‑bit jobs, and the 8‑hour charge time can be a hassle for frequent use.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the Black+Decker BDCDD12C offers Battery Capacity: 1.5 Ah

Avoid if: You have limited desk space or need portability

TL;DR: The Black+Decker BDCDMT120C offers a 20V MAX brushed motor, 1.5 Ah battery, and MATRIX Quick Connect system in a compact 8.8‑in‑high, 3.9‑lb package, earning a 4.7‑star rating.

What really sets this drill apart is the MATRIX Quick Connect system, which lets you snap on interchangeable attachments without tools. It runs on a 20V MAX (nominal 18V) brushed motor, supplies 1.5 Ah of lithium‑ion capacity, and includes an LED light for dark jobs. The keyless 3/8‑in chuck and 11‑position clutch give you quick bit changes and torque control, while the whole unit measures 8.8 in tall, 11.3 in long, and 3.2 in wide.

Compared with the other 11 drills in this roundup, the BDCDMT120C is a bit heavier than the Ryobi ONE+ PCL206B (2.3 lb) and the Black+Decker LDX120C (3.15 lb), but it shares the same 1.5 Ah battery capacity as the LDX120C and the BDCDD12C. Its max RPM of 800 is lower than the Ryobi’s 1,750‑rpm high‑speed rating, positioning it more for light‑to‑medium tasks than high‑speed drilling.

Users consistently praise the quick‑swap capability and the drill’s compact feel, noting that the LED light and keyless chuck make cramped‑space work easier. Professional reviewers echo these points but warn that the brushed motor and modest 800 RPM ceiling make the tool less suitable for heavy‑duty construction work. Battery‑sharing across the MATRIX ecosystem also receives positive mentions, though the 1.5 Ah pack may need recharging during longer sessions.

The drill’s brushed motor, 20V MAX voltage, and 30 Wh energy rating give reliable power for typical DIY projects. Charge time is listed at 180 minutes, and the battery holds a charge for up to 18 months when not in use, which is handy for occasional homeowners who store tools between jobs.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the Black+Decker BDCDMT120C offers Battery Capacity: 1.5 Ah

Avoid if: You need professional‑grade torque, high RPM, or a lighter ultra‑compact drill for very tight spaces.

TL;DR: The DEKO PRO 20V Cordless Drill delivers brushless power, 350 in‑lbs torque, and a 1.5 Ah battery at $27.54, making it a lightweight, value‑packed option for DIY tasks.

This drill packs a brushless motor and a 20 V, 300 W power output, giving it a smooth 2‑Speed transmission with a high‑speed range of 0‑1350 RPM and a low‑speed range of 0‑350 RPM. At just 2.5 lb, the pistol‑grip design feels easy to control, and the built‑in LED work light shines into tight corners while you work.

Compared with the other eleven drills in the roundup, the DEKO PRO sits near the middle on weight—lighter than the Black+Decker model that weighs 2.8 lb but a touch heavier than the Jar‑owl’s 2.4‑lb unit. Its 350 in‑lbs of torque outperforms the Avid Power’s 280 in‑lbs, yet it trails the Ryobi’s 515 in‑lbs. The 1.5 Ah battery matches the capacity of Black+Decker’s offering and exceeds the Jar‑owl’s 1.3 Ah pack, though it’s smaller than the higher‑capacity kits that some competitors bundle.

Users consistently praise the drill’s compact size and the all‑in‑one kit that includes a 10‑piece bit set, magnetic holder, charger, and battery. Reviewers also note the ease of swapping the keyless 3/8‑inch chuck and the convenience of the variable‑speed trigger. Professional reviewers highlight the brushless motor’s efficiency, but they also point out that the 350 in‑lbs torque ceiling limits heavy‑duty use, and the 1.5 Ah cell may need frequent recharging on longer jobs.

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: The DeWalt DCD777D1 packs a brushless 404 UWO motor, a compact 6.38‑inch head and a 1/2‑inch ratcheting chuck into a lightweight 2.82‑lb, 20‑V cordless drill for pros who need power without bulk.

What really stands out is the brushless motor delivering 404 UWO of power while keeping the tool head to just 6.38 inches. That short head lets you reach tight spots and work overhead without the wobble you’d get from a longer design. Pair that with a 1/2‑inch ratcheting metal chuck, and you’ve got secure bit retention for demanding job‑site tasks.

Compared with the other eleven drills in this roundup, the DCD777D1 is a bit longer than the Makita XFD10Z (which measures 8.6 inches) but it’s slightly lighter than Makita’s 2.93‑lb rating. Its $99.00 price tag sits side‑by‑side with the Craftsman CMCK200C2, making it competitively priced while offering a brushless motor that many rivals lack.

Users consistently praise the drill’s compactness and the “professional‑grade” reliability of the ratcheting chuck. Reviewers note that the 2.0 Ah lithium‑ion battery provides enough juice for typical DIY projects, though some heavy‑use scenarios call for a larger pack. Professional reviewers also highlight the 15‑position clutch and the variable‑speed trigger, which together give fine control from delicate fastening to tougher drilling.

Technical extras include an LED work light with a 20‑second delay, two‑speed settings (high up to 1,650 RPM and low for torque‑heavy work), and a 20‑V system that pairs with DeWalt’s broader battery ecosystem. The ergonomic comfort grip reduces fatigue during extended use, and the tool ships with a belt hook and bag for easy transport.

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 or only need basic functionality

TL;DR: The Makita XPH12Z packs a 530 in.lbs. max‑torque brushless motor, dual LEDs and an all‑metal gearbox into a 2.8 lb, 9.5‑inch‑tall tool that runs up to 50 % longer per charge.

The standout spec is its 530 in.lbs. of maximum torque, which puts it ahead of many cordless drills in this group and makes fast work of dense wood, metal and masonry up to 1/2 inch. Coupled with a brushless motor that promises up to 50 % longer runtime, the XPH12Z feels like a professional‑grade driver while staying compact at 9.5 inches tall, 7.125 inches long and 7.8 inches wide.

Compared with the other eleven models, the Makita sits near the middle of the weight range. At 2.8 lb it’s lighter than the Porter‑Cable 20V MAX (6.9 lb) and the Black+Decker BDCDMT120C (3.8 lb), about the same as the DeWalt DCD777D1 (2.82 lb) and a touch lighter than the Makita XFD10Z (≈2.93 lb). It’s taller than the Black+Decker LDX120C (7.68 in) and the Craftsman CMCK200C2 (11.0 in height but extremely lightweight), but its overall length of 7.125 inches is shorter than most peers, giving it an advantage in tight‑space applications.

Professional reviewers praise the XPH12Z’s all‑metal 2‑speed gearbox and the reliability of its mechanical speed switch, noting that the brushless motor keeps the tool cooler during extended use. User comments frequently highlight the dual LED lights for better visibility in dark job sites, while the tool‑only configuration is a recurring point of friction for DIYers who don’t already own 18V LXT batteries. The mechanical speed switch, though praised for durability, is sometimes mentioned as a wear point compared with electronic buttons on competing models.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high-quality option — the Makita XPH12Z offers Speed Settings: 2 variable

TL;DR: The Ryobi ONE+ PCL206B packs 515 in‑lbs of torque and a 2‑speed gearbox into a 2.3‑lb, 18V cordless drill for just $43.24, making it a solid entry‑level choice for DIY projects.

What really stands out is the 515 in‑lbs of max torque paired with a high‑speed range of 0‑1,750 RPM. That combination lets you drive screws and drill into wood or metal without stalling, and the 24‑position clutch plus drill mode give fine control for delicate tasks. The on‑board LED worklight brightens tight spaces, and the 1/2 in. keyless ratcheting chuck lets you swap bits quickly.

Compared with the other eleven drills in this roundup, the PCL206B is heavier than the ultra‑light Avid Power model (about 2.19 lb) but still lighter than the Black+Decker BDCDD12C (2.8 lb) and the heavier Black+Decker BDCDMT120C (3.8 lb). Its torque of 515 in‑lbs dwarfs the 280 in‑lbs listed for the Avid Power drill and far exceeds the 115 in‑lbs seen on the Black+Decker LDX120C, putting it near the top of the performance chart. Speed‑wise, its 1,750 RPM high end outpaces the 550 RPM of the Avid Power and the 800 RPM max of the Black+Decker BDCDMT120C, giving it a clear edge for faster drilling.

Users consistently praise the strong torque for everyday household jobs and the bright LED for dim areas. The fact that it fits into Ryobi’s ONE+ ecosystem is a frequent selling point—owners can share batteries across a growing tool line. On the flip side, reviewers note the brushed motor can wear faster under heavy use, and the tool‑only package means you’ll need to buy a battery and charger separately, which adds to the upfront cost for first‑time Ryobi users.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry-level option — the Ryobi ONE+ PCL206B offers Speed Settings: 2-Speed

TL;DR: The Jar‑owl 21 V Cordless Drill packs a 350 in‑lb torque, 2‑speed gearbox and a 37‑piece kit into a 2.4 lb, fast‑charging package for light‑duty DIY tasks.

What really stands out is the 350 in‑lb of maximum torque combined with a 2‑gear transmission that reaches up to 1,350 RPM. The 21 V Li‑ion motor drives a keyless 3/8‑inch chuck, and a built‑in LED lights the work area. An 18+1 adjustable clutch lets you dial in torque for wood, metal or screw‑driving, while the variable‑speed trigger gives fine control.

Compared with the other 11 drills in this roundup, the Jar‑owl sits in the middle of the weight range—heavier than the Avid Power and Ryobi models but lighter than the Black+Decker and DEKO options. Its torque of 350 in‑lb outstrips the Avid Power’s 280 in‑lb and the Black+Decker LDX120C’s 115 in‑lb, yet it falls short of Ryobi’s 515 in‑lb. Speed‑wise, the 1,350 RPM high gear tops most peers (Avid Power caps at 550 RPM, Black+Decker models stay below 800 RPM) but is modest next to Ryobi’s 1,750 RPM. Battery capacity at 1.3 Ah is lower than the 1.5 Ah cells found in several competitors, which can limit run time on longer jobs. On the bright side, a 60‑minute charge is faster than the 180‑minute and 480‑minute cycles listed for two Black+Decker models.

Reviewers consistently praise the drill’s lightweight feel and quick‑charge capability, noting that the included 37‑piece bit set and hand‑tool kit make it ready for a range of household repairs. The LED work light and lock‑on button are also highlighted as handy for tight spaces. On the flip side, users mention that the modest 1.3 Ah battery can run out quickly during larger projects, and the 350 in‑lb torque is best suited for light to medium tasks rather than heavy‑duty construction.

Best for: Budget‑conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the Jar‑owl Cordless Drill offers Battery Capacity: 1.3 Ah

Avoid if: You need high torque and long runtime for heavy professional work

TL;DR: The Makita XFD10Z packs 480 in.lbs. of torque into a 7‑3/8‑inch compact driver‑drill, offering rugged XPT protection and dual LEDs for tight‑space jobs at a mid‑range price.

What sets this drill apart is its 480 in.lbs. maximum torque paired with a 0‑1,900 RPM high‑speed range, delivering strong drilling and fastening power despite its small footprint. The 1/2‑inch chuck lets you handle typical wood and metal bits, while the 18V LXT lithium‑ion platform keeps the tool lightweight at 2.93 lbs (net weight with battery 3.3 lbs) and easy to balance.

Compared with the other 11 models in the roundup, the XFD10Z is lighter than the Porter‑Cable 20V MAX Drill, which tips the scales at 6.9 pounds, yet a bit heavier than the Black+Decker BDCDD12C at 2.8 pounds. Its overall length of 7‑3/8 inches is shorter than the DeWalt DCD777D1’s 12.5‑inch length, making it especially handy for overhead work or cramped closets.

Professional reviewers praise the Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) for resisting dust and water, and the Star Protection Computer Controls for guarding against overheating and over‑discharge. Users appreciate the dual LED with afterglow that keeps the work area illuminated, but several note that the brushed 4‑pole motor isn’t as efficient as newer brushless designs and that the tool‑only package means you’ll need to buy batteries and a charger separately.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the Makita XFD10Z offers Chuck Size: 1/2 inch.

Avoid if: You need the utmost efficiency and longest motor life, or you prefer an all‑in‑one package without buying separate batteries.

TL;DR: The Porter‑Cable 20V MAX Drill delivers a 2‑Speed gearbox, 0‑1,500 RPM range and a built‑in LED in a compact 8.25‑inch, 3.5‑lb package, but its brushed motor and $89.99 price put it above some rivals.

The drill’s most distinctive spec is its 2‑Speed gearbox that tops out at 0‑1,500 RPM on the high setting and drops to 0‑350 RPM on low, giving you enough torque for most DIY wood and metal jobs. At just 8.25 inches long and 3.5 lb, it fits easily into tight spaces, and the integrated LED work light shines on dark job sites.

At $89.99 it is a touch pricier than the Makita XFD10Z’s $88.51 list price, and at 3.5 lb it carries more mass than Makita’s 2.93 lb model. Compared with the Craftsman CMCK200C2, whose listed weight is a mere 0.000625 lb, the Porter‑Cable feels substantially heavier. It also offers fewer premium features than some higher‑end peers, but its keyless 1/2‑inch chuck and 20 V MAX lithium‑ion compatibility keep it competitive in the mid‑range segment.

Everyday users praise the drill’s compact form factor and the convenience of the LED light, noting that it “doesn’t tire my arm” during extended projects. Professional reviewers echo the same sentiment, calling the lightweight design “ideal for confined work areas.” The brushed motor, however, draws criticism for shorter runtime and occasional stalling under heavy loads, and the 1,500 RPM ceiling can feel limiting when speed is essential. The lack of a ratcheting chuck is another point mentioned by reviewers looking for extra grip on tough bits.

Best for: DIY homeowners and light‑trade pros who value a compact, lightweight drill with 2‑Speed control — the Porter‑Cable 20V MAX Drill 2 inch offers Speed Settings: 2-Speed