The Best Drills
Looking to get some construction done? Then you'll probably need a good drill. If you're on the lookout for the top drills on the market, we have you covered with this list. We've found the very best electric drills and reviewed them to help you find the right one for your needs.
What to Look For
In looking for the best electric drills to buy, we looked at their power, accessories, and battery life. The trustworthy Dewalt-DCD771C2, for example, comes with a case and two huge batteries for plenty of portable power. Or you could go with the corded Black and Decker electric drill. It runs like a dream and never dies on you as long as you have wall power. For more of our favorite electric drills, keep on reading.
Dewalt 20V Max Cordless Drill 2-Tool Combo Kit
You might think of electric drills as being heavy, cumbersome, and quick to drain their battery charge. But the ones in this kit are nothing like those older models. Equipped with a 20V Max battery, these drills perform like champs. The larger drill reaches speeds of up to 1,500 rpm, and even the smaller drill still is powerful. Plus, it’s more lightweight and maneuverable — great for simple jobs like putting picture frames and such.
Pros:
- The batteries can easily last weeks and are interchangeable between drills
- Highly adjustable, so they work as drills or electric screwdrivers
- Compatible with almost any bit
Cons:
- Can be a bit heavy to cart around in the case
Dewalt 20V Max Compact Cordless Drill Kit
Everything you need in one place
It’s hard to go wrong with Dewalt. They’ve been in the tools and hardware business for ages, and the proof can be seen in this high-quality drill kit. It includes the DCD771C2 drill, which is a powerhouse in terms of portability, speed, and torque. It hits an impressive 1,500 RPM and can handle almost any kind of material you throw at it. Since it’s a Dewalt drill, you can rely on it to work dutifully for years.
Pros:
- Lightweight and wieldy thanks to the steel construction
- Great for drilling through metal
- Can drills through brick when equipped with the appropriate masonry bit
Cons:
- LED could be better positioned for more light
Avid Power 20V Max Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill Set
Time to get to work
A good drill is nothing without a good set of bits. This set combines has both at an attractive price. Not only does it come with a set of drill bits and screwdriver bits, but this kit also includes a flexible extension. This magical device lets you reach tight spots that a regular drill can’t. It might not be the most powerful electric drill, but it definitely does the job for most home projects.
Pros:
- High-capacity battery lasts a long while and even doubles as a portable USB charger
- Feels like a big brand drill without the hefty price tag
- Great torque for loosening tight screws
Cons:
- Doesn’t include a carrying case
Black and Decker Cordless Drill
Let's hit the road
Who doesn’t love a good toolkit — especially when it offers a lot of bang for your buck? This Black and Decker electric drill kit has everything you’d need for most home projects without costing a fortune. It has a dependable electric drill that feels great in the hand — lightweight, easy to maneuver, and grippy enough so that it doesn’t slip. And since the adjustable torque has 24 settings, you can finely tune the power to avoid stripping screws.
Pros:
- Includes longer screwdriver bits for easier access to hard-to-reach screws
- One of the better grips on the market
- Can be used on delicate projects like electronics or screwing into softer wood or plastic
Cons:
- It would have been nice to have an extra battery with this set
Black and Decker Corded Drill
Perfect for the shop
With the proliferation of cordless drills, you might wonder why you’d want a wired one. With this corded drill from Black and Decker, you’ll quickly see why. First off, it’s super affordable. Secondly, since there’s no bulky battery attached, it’s lightweight and easy to handle. Finally, this drill will never die mid-construction. You can always count on it when you need a powerful drill. The cable is plenty long enough, too, so you can use it throughout your shop or garage.
Pros:
- 1,500 rpm motor can power through wood, brick, and more
- Drill speed varies with the pressure of the trigger
- Includes a trigger lock for safety
Cons:
- Doesn’t have as much torque adjustment as other drills
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 20V Max?
This is the name for a standard of batteries for drills. They’re technically 18-volt batteries but without a load are at 20 volts. These batteries are made with better material than older 18V batteries, hence the naming distinction. They’re more lightweight, have higher capacity, and charge more quickly than batteries of yesteryear.
Can I drill metal with an electric drill?
It depends on the type of metal, torque strength, and drill bit, but generally, you can drill through metal with an electric drill. Make sure to get a bit made especially for metal which has a flatter end than those made for wood. They’re called “twist bits” and can be found at practically any hardware store. You’ll want them in titanium for the best strength and durability.
About the Author
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