Our picks at a glance
Paid link: buttons go to the retailer. Prices change often, so we link to the current price instead of listing one.
Comparison table
| Feature | DeWalt 20V MAX XR Brushless Drill/Driver KitBest overall | Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hammer Drill KitBest professional | Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Drill KitBest budget |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verdict | Buy | Buy | Buy |
| Best for | Homeowners and DIY | Heavy-duty work | First tool kit |
| Key feature | Compact brushless power | Pro-grade power | Affordable platform |
| Typical price | $150–$220 | $300–$400 | $70–$120 |
| Where to buy | Check price Paid link | Check price Paid link | Check price Paid link |
Cordless Drills
9.0/10 research score
1Best overallBuy
DeWalt 20V MAX XR Brushless Drill/Driver Kit
Compact brushless power. Our pick for homeowners and DIY.
- Buy it if
- You want a reliable drill on a huge battery platform.
- Skip it if
- You only hang a picture once a year.
Pros
- Compact and light
- Brushless motor
- Huge tool ecosystem
Cons
- Kit price varies with batteries
Check current price Paid linkTypically $150–$220
Cordless Drills
9.0/10 research score
2Best professionalBuy
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hammer Drill Kit
Pro-grade power. Our pick for heavy-duty work.
- Buy it if
- You do heavy renovation or trade work.
- Skip it if
- You want something light for small jobs.
Pros
- Exceptional power
- Hammer mode for masonry
- Pro durability
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
Check current price Paid linkTypically $300–$400
Cordless Drills
8.0/10 research score
3Best budgetBuy
Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Drill Kit
Affordable platform. Our pick for first tool kit.
- Buy it if
- You want an affordable drill with a big range of compatible tools.
- Skip it if
- You need pro-level durability.
Pros
- Low price
- Huge range of ONE+ tools
- Light
Cons
- Less power than pro brands
Check current price Paid linkTypically $70–$120
Compare more cordless drills on Amazon Paid link
How we chose
Cordless drills and drivers compared on power, battery platform, weight and value. We compared specifications, manufacturer documentation, warranty terms and typical prices, then gave every product a clear verdict with the people who should skip it.
What to look for in cordless drills
- Pick a battery platform you can grow with; batteries are the expensive part.
- Brushless motors run longer and last longer.
- Hammer drills are needed for masonry.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a hammer drill?
Only for drilling into brick, stone or concrete. A regular drill/driver handles wood and metal.