Some would say that power drills are the most essential tool in the shed, and there isn’t anyone here who would disagree with them. Tools have been around for years, and over the years the premise of drills have remained the same, but technology has made them faster, more durable, more efficient, lighter, and more versatile than ever before.
Drills are much more than just drilling holes as they have taken the place of other tools which have made them extremely popular with DIY’ers. Even the most basic drills will give you more options than you think which means making the right decision with your next purchase something worth considering.
With the many types of power drills including corded, cordless, hammer, and right angle drills, taking the time to understand their best uses will make your next purchase the right one. There are many parts that define the performance such as the clutch, motor, transmission, chuck, and much more, all of which we’ll better define below. After field testing hundreds of drills, we’ve come up with the most comprehensive buying guide and review of the best drills out there.
The following review looks at the Top 20 Power Drills in 2020 while considering everything a consumer needs to know such as price, durability, speed, performance, and so much more.
1. Makita 6302H 1/2-Inch Reversible Variable Speed Drill – 10.0
Some power drills are not for everyone, but Makita introduced one that is. The Makita variable speed drill is a corded model, and comes in scoring a perfect 10 out of 10 while claiming the #1 drill in this review. This ½” drill features a reverse and variable speed and is powered by a efficient 6.5 Amp motor. The ½-inch drill chuck is made of heavy-duty material which was built to last while giving users the peace of mind and use for years to come.
The Makita 6302H is perfect for drilling and driving through a wide array of material with variable speeds ranging from 0-550 RPM. Users will also enjoy added comfort than most power drills with the ergonomically correct 2-position side handle. This gives you much more control and stability which is easy to use for long periods of time.
This lightweight and compact corded power drill only weighs 4.8 pounds which makes it recommended for those looking for long, continuous use. Complete with a belt clip which keeps the drill on your side at all times which is something to consider if you’re intending on using it for professional use.
Specs and Features
- 6.5 Amp motor
- ½-inch drill chuck
- 2-position side handle
- Weight – 4.8 pounds
- Variable speed 0-550 RPM
- 120 volts
2. Black & Decker 18V Cordless Power Drill Driver – 10.0
If you’re a do it yourselfer, than Black & Decker introduced the perfect drill for you. This Black and Decker classic is powered by 18volts and comes complete with 2 rechargeable batteries which will give you an ample power supply. Included are two 18 volt NI-Cad batteries which have proven to be very efficient.
Black & Decker is one of the biggest names in the industry, and if you’re looking for a drill that represents quality than this is it. This 18volt cordless drill is extremely lightweight, weighing only 3.4 pounds. Best suited for light and medium range tasks, but can handle some heavy duty drilling tasks as well. With all-positive reviews on Amazon, there’s no wonder why this drill which comes in around $60 has become a best-seller.
Specs and Features
- Item Weight: 3.4 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 12 x 3.4 x 7.4 inches
- Color: orange and black
- Power Source: battery-powered
- Voltage: 18 volts
- Number of Handles: 1
- Included Components: Bare-Tool
3. Porter-Cable PCCK600LB 20-volt 1/2-Inch Lithium Ion Drill Driver Kit – 10.0
The Porter-Cable PCCK600LB cordless drill kit comes with everything you need to drive through small and large applications with ease. This powerful, efficient, and highly durable cordless drill significantly reduces user fatigue with an ergonomic handle and grip. The kit includes the drill, two lithium ion batteries, charger, storage box, and a double ended bit tip.
Powered by 20 volts which is fully complimented by the 2-speed gear box which delivers consistent speed and power. Boasting a metal ratcheting chuck which significantly decreases bit slippage, LED light, and onboard fuel gauge, there’s no wonder why this ½-inch drill driver kit scores a perfect 10 out of 10.
Specs and features
- Power: 330 Unit Watt Out
- Battery Chem: Lithium Ion
- Chuck Size: ½-inch
- Chuck type: Metal ratcheting – keyless chuck
- Clutch Settings: 23 positions
4. Dewalt DCD996B Bare Tool 20V MAX XR Lithium Ion Brushless 3-Speed Hammer Drill – 10.0
Dewalt introduced this 3-speed hammer drill which is one of the best-selling on the market. You get the option of the complete kit for around $280 or bare tool only for under $150 which is both great options at this price point. The standout feature is the transmission itself which significantly enhances speed, and power while giving you more run-time.
The Dewalt DCD996B hammer drill was built with one thing in mind, and excels in every facet when looking at true performance. Featuring a brushless motor which gives you more than 55% higher run time then brushed motors and is perfect for drilling through all applications including masonry 0-38,250 BPM. Other features include an LED light with a spotlight mode, but keep in mind you’ll have to buy the battery separately.
Specs and Features
- 0-38250 BPM
- Rubberized Grip
- Compact
- 20 Volt Cordless
- 3-speed
- 3-Mode LED
5. Dewalt D25263K D-Handle SDS 1-1/8″ Rotary Hammer with Shocks – 10.0
If you’re looking for a new hammer drill which is perfect in all regards, than considering the 5th spot in this review is definitely the best choice. The Dewalt SDS rotary hammer drill features a unique D-Handle which gives you much more control. Outfitted with shocks which significantly reduces vibration which is felt in the handle and features Dewalt’s own Perform and Protect feature for improved safety.
The Dewalt D25263K is powered by an 8.5 Amp motor which is performance based. Fully setup for high torque reactions thanks to the integral clutch, you’ll find you’ll have enough power for hardcore drilling tasks and continuous use. The rotating brush gives you full torque and speed with no depreciation from forward to reverse which is seen in many other rotary hammer drills.
Specs and Features
- Item Weight 2 pounds
- Product Dimensions 2 x 12.8 x 5.3 inches
- Origin China
- Size 1-1/8″
- Power Source AC
- Amperes 5 Amps
- Clutch Integral
6. Milwaukee 2896-23 M18 FUELTM Gen 2 Cordless Lithium-Ion 3 Tool Combo Kit – 10.0
This Milwaukee Generation 2 cordless drill is yet another reason why it’s time to upgrade which gives you a complete 3 in 1 tool combo kit. The complete kit gives you all cordless models including a drill, impact wrench, LED light, charger, and a bag to store it all in. If you’re looking to upgrade a bulk of your tools while making you much more versatile, then considering the 6th option in this review is a great place to start.
The Milwaukee M18 FUELTM lithium-ion cordless drill is powered by 18 volts of battery. The 5.0Ah Lithium-ion battery provides you hours of use on a continuous charge and can be used an all three pieces including in this combo.
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7. Bosch RH328VC 1-1/8-Inch SDS Rotary Hammer Drill – 9.9
The Bosch SDS rotary hammer drill scores an impressive 9.9 out of 10 and is backed by well over 125 all-positive reviews on Amazon. This highly functional, compact, but powerful hammer drill is outfitted with an 8.0Amp motor. Some have dubbed the RH328VC as the best rotary hammer in its class, and why not considering it gives off 2.6 ft-lbs Impact Energy and 7.7 lbs.
Featuring vibration control which corrects one of the biggest problems with high impact hammer drills which significantly reduces the vibration felt into the handle and grip. With three modes of operation including hammer only, rotary only and rotary hammer, you get the best of all worlds and can take full advantage of it with a 3-speed variable speed trigger.
Specs and Features
- Item Weight: 6 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 2 x 14.6 x 5.3 inches
- Power Source: corded-electric
- Voltage: 120V
- Included Components: Bare-Tool
- Warranty Description: 30 Day Money Back Guarantee – 1 year warranty
- Ampere: 0 Amp
- Chuck Design: Keyless
- Length: 5 inch
8. Dewalt DWD520K 1/2-Inch VSR Pistol Grip Hammer Drill Kit – 9.9
The Dewalt DWD520K Pistol Grip Hammer drill is a corded model and doesn’t look out in functionality and portability like other corded drills. This lightweight, but extremely powerful hammer drill is powered by a 10Amp motor which performs highly for high-impact drilling. This performance based drill gives you up to 50% more power and better overload protection than most thanks to Dewalt’s patented motor design.
The Dewalt ½-inch VSR drill features a unique pistol grip hammer which gives the user much more control. Outfitted with a dual mode selector which allows you to choose between hammer and drill mode making it much more versatile than standard hammer drills. Other highlight features include a 2-speed range feature which allows you to turn up the torque while giving you much more control with a two finger trigger and soft grip handle.
Specs and Features
- Item Weight: 7 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 5 x 16.1 x 4.4 inches
- Size: 5
- Color: Yellow, Black & Silver
- Amps: 0 AMPS
- Capacity in Steel: ½ inch.
- Capacity in Wood: 1-1/2 inch.
- Kit Box: Yes
- Tool length: 14 inches
9. Bosch PS21-2A 12-Volt Max Lithium-Ion 2-Speed Pocket Driver Kit – 9.9
One of the best-selling power drills on the market was introduced by Bosch, and in a very short amount of time the PS21-SA has become a fan favorite. This portable and highly compact Pocket Driver is the complete kit which includes the driver, 2 lithium-ion batteries, case, and charger.
The Bosch 12-Volt Max can be ran at 1st-0-350 RPM / 2nd – 0-1,300 RPM which gives you up to 2X more speed than competitors. Featuring a 21 clutch settings, LED light, and a universal bit holder which is the first of its class, it’s easy to see why the Bosch PS21-2A has nearly 400 all-positive reviews.
Specs and features
- Item Weight: 1.8 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 12.4 x 9.7 x 4.4 inches
- Power Source: cordless-electric
- Voltage: 12 volts
- Special Features: compact
- 2 Speeds (1st-0-350 RPM / 2nd – 0-1,300 RPM)
- 20+1 Clutch Settings
10. Dewalt DW223G 7 Amp 3/8-Inch Drill – 9.9
Dewalt hasn’t become one of the biggest names in the industry, and if it wasn’t for their lineup of power drills there’s no telling where they would be. This is one of the best bargains on the market right now, and for a limited time you will save over 50% on this 3/8” corded drill. This simple to use, but highly efficient power drill was built to last securing your investment for many years to come.
The Dewalt DW223G features heat treated steel gears and helical-cut steel for improved durability. This drill is rugged enough for everyday use in the shop, even for continuous use thanks to the two-finger rubber trigger. You’ll also get much more control with the D-Nose handle which can be mounted on the side or rig and the 3-wire grounded cord is great for overload protection.
Specs and Features
- Chuck Size 3/8”
- RPM: 0-1200 (No Load)
- Power: 7 amps
- Double Gear Reduction
- capacity in wood: Spade bit: 1-1/4 and Hole saw: 2-1/8
- Capacity in Steel: Twist bit: 3/8
- Weight: 3.6 lbs
11. Milwaukee 2606-22CT M18 1/2″ Drill Driver CP Kit – 9.9
If you’re looking for a complete drill driver kit and don’t want to shatter the bank, then this is the best option for you. The Milwaukee M18 drill is a complete package which includes a ½-inch cordless drill, 2 REDLITHIUM batteries, storage case, and chargers. With an M18 and M12 battery with both chargers, you can dual charge and dual use at any time.
Milwaukee added their own flare which significantly improves overload protection with REDLINK which protects your investment unlike most others. The multi-volt charger only takes 30 minutes to give you a full charge and you’ll appreciate the attached LED light which illuminates the application.
Specs and features
- Power: 18 Volts
- Charger: M18 & M12 multi-volt charger
- Battery: Red lithium
- Weight: 2.9 lbs
- Speed: 0 to 400 & 0-1800 RPM
- Chuck Type: ½ inch ratcheting Chuck
- Max Torque: 500 inch-lbs
12. Milwaukee 0299-20 Magnum 8 Amp ½ Inch Drill – 9.9
The easy to use and very durable Magnum corded drill features a powerful 8Amp motor. The motor is fully complimented by a variable speed control which gives you 0 – 850 rpm. For a simple, powerful, one-handed operation, this Milwaukee power drill is deserving of the 12th spot in this review.
The Milwaukee Magnum features a strong ½” metal chuck. Durability won’t ever be questioned as it features an all-metal surround including the gear case and diaphragm. Weighing only 5.8 pounds, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a lighter drill that’s durable, with this much power and in this price range.
Specs and Features
- Item Weight: 5.8 pounds
- Size: 1/2″
- Color: Red
- Material: Steel, Hastelloy
- Power Source: Corded-Electric
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Amperage Capacity: 8 A
- Chuck key, Flexible Chuck key holder, Side handle also come with the drill
- 8-foot, 3-wire rubber cord
13. Makita HR2475 1-Inch D-Handle SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill – 9.9
Hammer drills are one of those specialized tools which have improved in functionality over the years and the Makita SDS-Plus is one of the best reasons why. Built for some of the toughest tasks imaginable, this rotary hammer drill gives off 0-1,100 RPM & 0-4,500 BPM thanks to the 7.0 Amp motor. Featuring a torque limiting clutch which automatically disengages the gears when the bit binds which minimizes the change of gear damage.
The Makita HR2475 is highlighted by Makita Motor Advantage which makes power transfer much more efficient which extends the life of the drill. Sequential impact timing, 40-bit angle settings, and three modes of operation including rotary only, hammer only, and rotary hammer for much more versatility.
Specs and Features
- Item Weight: 7 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 7 x 13.4 x 11.9 inches
- Color: Teal
- Power Source: corded-electric
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Item Package Quantity: 1
- Included Components: case
14. Dewalt DC759KA 18-Volt NiCad 1/2-Inch Cordless Drill Driver Kit – 9.8
If you’re looking for a compact cordless drill that works wonders in tight places without losing the power which is often seen in compact drills, than this one is it. Where this drill outperforms the competition is the high performance motor which gives off 380 unit watts with a dual speed range of 0-to-450 RPM and 0-to-1,500 RPM.
The Dewalt DC759KA comes with two 18-volt NiCad batteries, charger, and heavy duty storage box, and a double-sided screwdriver bit. Weighing only 4.7 pounds it’s very lightweight, which is hard to find considering the amount of power it puts in your hand. If you’re thinking about picking this one up, you may want to act soon as there are only a few left.
Specs and features
- Item Weight: 4.7
- Product Dimensions: 14.8 x 13.5 x 4.7 inches
- Color: Yellow
- Power Source: cordless-electric
- Voltage: 18 volts
- Special Features: compact
- Included Components: bare-tool
15. Makita CX200RB 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Sub-Compact Brushless Cordless 2-Pc. Combo Kit – 9.8
This 2-piece combo kit includes a 6 3/8” drill, driver, both chargers, and two 2.0Ah batteries. This is the complete tool kit for do it yourselfers or professionals looking for a serious upgrade that won’t cost you a fortune while giving you high-performing a high performing drill and driver at the same time. Both are extremely lightweight with the drill weighing only 2.8 pounds and impact driver weighing even less.
The Makita 18volt LXT combo features a mechanical variable speed transmission delivering 0-500 & 0-1,700 RPM which is perfect for a wide array of applications. The brushless motor gives you maximum torque over 350 in. lbs which is plenty of power to handle the toughest tasks. Both are compact and ergonomic models while not sacrificing on power and performance one-bit.
Specs and Features
- Voltage: 18V required
- Variable speed transmission (0-500 & 0-1,700 RPM)
- Maximum torque of 350 inches/lbs
- Compact size and ergonomic design
- Drill driver weighs 2.8lbs, impact driver weighs 2.6lbs
- Batteries required: lithium-ion batteries
- Star protection technology
16. Makita LXFD01CW 18-Volt Compact Lithium-Ion Cordless 1/2-Inch Driver-Drill Kit – 9.7
The Makita LXFD01CW cordless drill kit features everything you need to tackle DIY projects and professional tasks alike. Including a ½” drill driver, lithium-ion battery, charger, and a heavy-duty case to store it all in. The 3.0 Ah lithium-ion battery gives you more run-time than most and with a rapid optimum charger you can take full advantage of a lot less down-time.
This Makita lightweight doesn’t miss out on power as the 4-pole motor gives you maximum torque with 480 in. lbs. Outfitted with a variable 2-speed selector ranging from 0-400 & 0-1,500 RPM and an LED light, you’ll find this is everything you need for confined spaces and less than optimal working conditions.
Specs and Features
- Voltage required: 18 Volts
- 2-speed transmission: (0-400 and 0-1,500 RPM)
- Maximum torque provided by the motor: 480 in.lbs
- PTI Torque: 290 in.lbs
- LED light bulbs
- Lithium- ion batteries: required
- Warranty description: 3 year warranty provided
17. Dewalt DCD791D2 20V MAX XR Li-Ion 0.5″ 2.0Ah Brushless Compact Drill Driver Kit – 9.7
Dewalt serves up yet another high quality cordless drill as the Max XR has become a #1 best-seller. Priced to sell at under $100, this Max cordless drill is the complete kit with a ½” driver, storage case, charger, and includes a lithium-ion battery.
The Dewalt DCD771C2 is powered by a highly efficient, high performance motor which gives you 300 unit watts which is more than enough to handle all types of tasks. The transmission has two speeds 0-450 & 1,500 rpm which gives you more precise control for a wide range of tasks. The ergonomically correct handle is more comfortable than most which does a great job absorbing vibration for a virtual vibration-less control.
Specs and features
- Item Weight: 3.5 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 16.2 x 4.5 x 10.1 inches
- Batteries: 2 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
- Power Source: Battery-Powered
- Voltage: 20 volts
- Included Components: Bare-Tool
- Battery Cell Type: Lithium Ion
18. Makita XT269M 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 2-Pc. Combo Kit – 9.7
This Makita 2-piece combo kit comes with ½” drill driver, impact driver, 18 volt lithium-ion battery, charger, and a heavy-duty storage case. Both drivers are powered by brushless motors which optimize battery consumption for optimal run-time and run much cooler than other brushless motors. This protects this investment which comes in at just under $300, but it’ll be the only drill purchase you’ll make for years.
The brushless motor works is much more effective by minimizing carbon brushes which often accumulates in the motor allowing it to run cooler and much more efficient. Variable speed options are onboard both the drill and driver with 0-500 & 0-2,000 RPM with the hammer drill and 0-3,400 RPM & 0-3,600 IPM with the impact driver. At this price you can’t go wrong, but what is wrong is considering anything else.
Specs and Features
- Voltage required: 18 Volts
- Variable 2-speed of drill driver (0-500 & 0-2,000 RPM)
- 530 inch/lb of maximum torque
- Variable speed of impact driver (0-3,400 RPM & 0-3,600 IPM)
- Maximum torque of 1500in/lb
- Star Protection technology
- Batteries required: Lithium-ion batteries
- 3-years limited warranty
19. Makita XT269R 2 Amp 18V Compact LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Combo Kit – 9.7
Another budget friendly high performance combo is the Makita 2Amp 2-piece cordless combo kit. The price speaks for itself, and with a ½’ hammer drill, impact driver, charger, lithium-ion battery, and hard-cover storage case it just screams bargain. This combo kit over-delivers in variable speed including 0-500 & 0-2,000 RPM in the hammer driver and 0-3,400 RPM & 0-3,600 IPM in the impact driver.
The Makita XT269R is powered by an extremely efficient, performance based 2Amp motor. The motor differs from most power drills as the BL brushless motor runs much cooler as it minimizes carbon brushes which typically get sucked into the motor. This alone will add years onto the lifespan of both the drill and driver which further protects your investment for years.
Specs and Features
- Brushless, powerful motor
- Impact driver has a variable speed option (0-3,400 RPM & 0-3,600 IPM)
- Maximum torque provided: 1,500 in/lbs
- Variable speed of the hammer driver drill: 0-500 & 0-2,000 RPM
- Torque provided: 530 in/Lbs
- Extreme Protection Technology
- 3-year tool warranty
20. Makita XT324 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 3-Pc. Combo Kit – 9.7 –
Last but not least is the Makita LXT cordless drill which is featured in a 3-piece combo tool kit. This kit comes complete with a ½” hammer drill, impact driver, sander/polisher, torsion bit set, bit holder, and carrying bag. With nearly 100 all-positive reviews and a price that is well below competitors, Makita did it right when they introduced this 3-piece kit.
The ½” driver features a powerful 4-pole motor. The impact driver has variable speeds ranging from 0-2,300 RPM & 0-3,200 IPM while giving off 1,420 in. lbs. of Max Torque. With the battery installed the driver weighs only 3.3 pounds which is much lighter than most within the same class.
The Gold Torsion Bit set has 38-pieces in total and the bit holder boasts a Neodymium magnet which is 2 times stronger than conventional magnets found in other bit holders.
Specs and Features
- Voltage required: 18 Volts
- Impact driver has variable speed (0-2,300 RPM & 0-3,200 IPM)
- Maximum torque of 1,420 in/lbs.
- Variable speed of hammer drill is 0-400 & 0-1,500 RPM
- Maximum torque: 480 in/lbs.
- Extreme Protection Technology
- Star Protection Technology
- Lightweight and compact
Conclusion
Hopefully, after reading this power drill review and buying guide which displays the best models for 2020 we made your buying decision much easier. If not, feel free to ask us a question or leave us a comment below.
