Find the Right Cordless Drill for Your Needs

Welcome to DrillandDriver! Whether you are a professional carpenter or a DIY enthusiast, the right cordless drill can make life much easier while you work on projects, as these tools combine portability with raw power.

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A Bit About Cordless Drill

You might be a weekend-warrior, tackling DIY projects around the home or you might be a professional builder, responsible for constructing homes and offices on a daily basis. Regardless of your title, a cordless drill is a vital addition to your toolbox.

Switching from a standard corded to a cordless drill allows for the freedom to access even the most remote area without the burden of being tethered to an outlet or the danger of becoming entangled in furniture, building materials or your own ankles. Also known as drivers, drills have the capacity to bore holes or secure screws in all types of materials. Keep several charged batteries on-hand to ensure that you never run out of power needed to complete your carpentry, remodeling, and DIY projects.

The benefits of a cordless drill a twofold. An impact driver type drill allows for the ability to smoothly secure a screw into place, regardless of the thickness of the wood or the length of the screw. The staccato impact action delivered from the drill reduces the amount of torque on the wrist and the possibility of stripped screws. Conversely, removing old or rusted with ease is as simple as reversing the rotation direction on the cordless driver.

The impact feature kicks in when met with resistance, causing the desired hole or screw to be completed without the use of exhausting physical force. Additionally, the innovation of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries ensures a longer run time without a loss of power. Lithium-ion technology is also energy efficient and cost effective. Batteries can be charged and recharged for an extended amount of time without requiring replacement and you will see a difference in your utility bills. The initial investment of a quality drill, bits, and other accessories may seem excessive up front but the long-term savings are priceless.

Finding the right cordless drill means looking at what you want jobs you want to do with it. A basic drill is good for putting furniture together or drilling small holes, and more advanced drills offer extra power to put bigger holes through tougher materials without issue. All good cordless drills have a full range of different features like comfortable design, long-lasting batteries and a company with excellent customer support in case of a problem.

Features

When determining a decent drill from an exceptional power tool, speed and torque are two major factors. You want to find a drill with high RPMs because higher speeds are better for drilling holes. Having a drill with multiple speed settings helps get the job done right because you can switch between high speed for hole drilling and lower speeds for driving screws. DeWalt drills will last longer & probably give more power (torque) in many instances.

Torque is defined as the measurement of a drill’s turning force and is how the industry determines the strength of a drill. You want to find a drill with a higher torque rating to ensure it can drill into hard surfaces. Top cordless drill models operate at high speeds and have a high torque level. This combination makes them very versatile. Basically, you can use drills with this combination as a drill or screwdriver for all your toughest projects.

In recent years a different rating system, called power, has been employed by some companies to determine a drill’s overall capabilities. Power is measured in unit watts out or UWO. This measurement considers a drill’s speed and torque together. These companies say that the higher UWO rating a drill has, the faster it performs certain functions. When a company uses this rating system, they generally do not release their drill’s torque ratings and they say there is no way to directly compare power and torque.

The last thing to look for is that the drill has at least 20 clutch settings. These settings are used in screwdriver mode so you don’t make your screws too deep or strip them. The more clutch settings the drill has, the better you can achieve the specific amount of force you need to drive a screw to the correct depth. Want to drive screws or bore holes with ease? PORTER–CABLE drills are known for their reliability and affordability.

Design

When getting a drill, you want to look for one that is comfortable, light and has many different features to make your job easier. Look for one that has an ergonomic, lightweight design that is well balanced when you hold it. You also want a drill that isn’t too top-heavy and distributes the weight evenly. Choosing an ergonomic drill means selecting a drill that is lightweight (under 5 pounds), and carries the weight above and below the grip, ensuring a more balanced, comfortable hold. Whether you are doing a professional job or an at-home Do It Yourself project, you don’t want to have to lug around a large, heavy drill.

The original portable drill, assembled in 1916, is at the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. Electric drills were in operation long before 1916, but they were large, stationary machines used in industrial and manufacturing facilities. Black + Decker’s drill was the first time an electric drill came as a lightweight, portable tool.  – Ecmag.com

Some modern drills have LED lights that illuminate the workspace in front of you. This may sound trivial, but it can come in very handy in low-light situations, such as working in a closet or under a sink. You also want a bit holder that is attached directly to the drill, so you never have to wonder where they are.

Batteries

Drills typically use lithium-ion batteries, which are light, long-lasting, and equal to the power of other batteries. Voltage is an easy indicator of a drill’s overall power. Higher voltage on a drill means more power to drill through harder surfaces like metal and masonry. Good drill voltage starts at about 18 volts.

One of the most frustrating things that can occur with cordless drills is when the battery runs out before your task is complete. You will want to have a drill with a spare battery, so you can be charging one while using the other in the drill. One big problem with the cheaper cordless tools is the batteries. They will often be of a lower amp hour rating, so won’t run the tool for so long with cheaper tools. Batteries frequently don’t last as many years on the cheaper brands either. The charger might be faster too on the Milwaukee drill or other professional tools like Makita drill set. Also, be sure to know the time it takes to charge the batteries, so you aren’t frustrated with long charge times when both batteries are dead. You can’t find the power tool battery or cordless drill battery that you’re looking for? See here – Cordless Drill Battery Replacement.

Help and Support

Buying power tools can be expensive, so you want to ensure your investment is protected against anything that may happen to potentially damage your drill. You want to find a company that offers extensive extended warranties for their tools. Good warranty programs will repair or replace defective items for a long period of time. You will usually find that your warranty will be split into two: one for the drill and one for the battery. Make sure the company you choose has email and telephone support, as well as an online user manual and frequently asked questions on their website. Hitachi drill has the best tool warranty of the manufacturers we reviewed. Its lifetime lithium-ion tool warranty protects against defects in material and workmanship from the purchase date.

Having the right tool for the right job can make your project go smoothly. The best cordless drills have high speeds, lots of power, a comfortable design, great battery features and comprehensive warranties.

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Check out the best cordless drills, impact drivers and screwdrivers now!

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# 1 - Dewalt DCD771C2

The Dewalt DCD771C2 is a compact drill that is lightweight and great for working in tight spaces. It has 2-speed variations allowing you to choose how much power you need for each project. This drill also comes with 2 lithium ion batteries to give you longer working times.

It is great to have for any job around the house. Reviewers note that it is a great tool for an average handyman or DIYer because it has a compact, lightweight design that will allow you to work in spaces as tight as a closet or under the sink.

It comes with two long lasting 20-Volt Lithium Ion batteries. Many users state that these batteries last for hours. Having a backup battery means that even when one battery runs out, your job doesn’t have to come to an end. While using the second battery, you can charge the first one with the rapid charger and never run out of juice.

Has plenty of power. Its powerful 300-unit watt motor with 2 speeds (0-450 and 0-1500 RPMS) can deliver the power you need for any job.

# 2 - Bosch PS31-2A

The Bosch PS31-2A is a versatile drill/driver that is lightweight at just 2 pounds, which makes it ideal for working overhead. It comes equipped with two speeds and 20+1 torque adjustments that bring 265 inches-per-pound of torque. It also has a LED light for improved visibility in low light areas.

Comes with great battery life. Bosch has taken the extra step of including Electronic Cell Protection which can extend the life of the two 12-volt batteries that are included. It also has a fuel gauge located on the side so you always know how much charge is left in your battery. Again, the extra battery means you can charge one battery while using the other battery and never have to worry about having a dead drill.

It is powerful and versitile. This driver/drill has a 3/8” sleeveless chuck that accommodates most common applications. It also gives plenty of power with two speeds (0-350 and 0-1,300 RPMS) and 20+1 torque settings. The max torque is 265-inches-per-pounds, so it really packs a punch.

Perfect size for any project. One of the most common reviewer comment is that it is lightweight and compact. “Great size and fit for a woman” is an example of a common remark about its size. It can be used in many different sized spaces and it won’t tire your arms out even when working on a ceiling.

# 3 - Makita’s XFD10R

Makita’s XFD10R is a powerful drilling machine. It has plenty of torque, a 2-speed transmission, and a comfort grip. This drill comes with a fast-charging battery to have less time to wait when it dies. The XFD10R is powered with a 4-pole motor that delivers 480 inches-per-pounds of torque, which gives it all the power you need for all your projects.

This drill is durable. Makita has engineered this drill to come with Extreme Protection Technology, which makes it more resistant to water and dust. This makes it ideal for jobs that are in more harsh conditions, as it eases the worry of ruining your tool.

Plenty of power and torque comes with this drill. Its 4-pole motor gives you 480 in. lbs. of Max Torque and 25% more speed compared to the previous model. This gives it all of the power needed for even your toughest jobs, like drilling through metal. It also features an all-metal two-speed transmission that delivers 0-600 and 0-1,900 RPMS.

It fits in your hand great. It is designed with an ergonomic handle with a rubber handle that makes it easy to handle. It is lightweight, so it is easy to use for any project you might need it for.

# 1 - DeWalt DCF885C1

DeWalt DCF885C1 Impact Driver kit features a max torque of 1400.00 in-lbs, a quarter inch hex drive and is backed by the company’s three year warranty. The kit includes a not only the impact driver, but a fast charger and 20-volt battery.

You can use it anywhere. The DeWalt Impact Driver Kit’s compact design — it measures 5.55 inches from front to back and weighs less than 3 pounds — make it the perfect choice to you in tight spaces around the house.

Shine a light on it. this kit comes equipped with three LEDs that are outfitted with a 20 second delay after you pull the trigger. That means you will be able to clearly see the area you are working in without any shadows, making repairs that much quicker to complete.

Easy to load. With a quarter inch hex chuck that accepts bit tips of up to one inch, this impact driver kit is easy to both load and use. Many users have confirms how easy this is to use in numerous customer reviews.

# 2 - Porter-Cable PCCK640LB

The Porter-Cable PCCK640LB impact driver has a high torque motor and chunk that allows users to use one hand to load it. Measuring 6.2 inches in length, it easily fits into tight spaces. It also has a built-in LED and bumpers on both sides to help protect it from being damaged. The kit includes the impact driver; two lithium-ion compact batteries; a charger; a Phillips head screwdriving bit; and a single kit box.

Designed to help reduce user fatigue. The light-weight Porter-Cable helps to reduce user fatigue with its ergonomic design and no-slip grip. Weighing it at less than 4 pounds, it is compact and fits into virtually any space quickly and easily.

Rev it up. It is outfitted with a high-performance transmission that allows for fast fastening applications. A quick look at the battery fuel gauge will tell you how much power you have left to finish the job you are working on.

More power. The Porter-Cable’s two 20 volt max lithium batteries have 1.5 amp cells that generate more power and operating time than larger batteries. Users report that batteries remain charged after several hours of work so it is always ready for use when and where you are.

# 3 - Makita XDT042

The Makita XDT042 18v LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless impact driver kit utilizes a proprietary hammer and anvil driving mechanism and heat-hardening process that allows for quick fastening and driving work. Compact, it measures less than 6 inches and lightweight, less than 4 pounds, it can easily be used in tight spaces.

It can be used for a variety of jobs. Its four-pole variable speed motor delivers 1,420 pounds of torque, making it perfect for the full spectrum of driving and fastening tasks. Many reviewers have reported that they have found it perfect for jobs ranging from the most simple home repairs to complex industrial work.

User friendly. It comes equipped with a quarter inch hex chuck, allowing for quick bit changes. The Makita impact driver also has an ergonomic design and rubberized soft grip, allowing for increased comfort during use.

Lighten up. A built in LED light illuminates the work area for ease of use in dark spaces and tight quarters. This makes it a great choice for both pro contractors and do it yourselfers looking for a high-performance impact driver.

# 1 - DeWalt DCF680N2

The name of the game with this excellent tool from DeWalt DCF680N2 8V Max Gyroscopic Screwdriver is versatility. This tough and rugged tool is designed to be useful in any situation, and it does so beautifully.

First, it comes with it’s own carrying case, freeing up space in your toolbox, something that is always at a premium. The case itself is high-quality fabric and has plenty of room for the DeWALT DCF680N2 8V Max Gyroscopic Screwdriver and all of it’s accessories.

In addition to that useful accessory, the DCF680N2 8V Max Gyroscopic Screwdriver comes with an extra, full-sized battery to make sure you will never be without power when you’re using this bad boy.

If all of that wasn’t enough, the grip on the DCF680N2 can be set to its “pistol grip” function, allowing you to lean in with your whole body to get through tough materials, or set to it’s straight function to get in to narrow spaces. With the DeWalt DCF680N2 8V Max Gyroscopic Screwdriver at your side, there won’t be a job you can’t handle.

# 2 - DeWALT DW920K-2

Versatility is important, and while the DeWALT DW920K-2 7.2-Volt Cordless Two-Position Screwdriver is certainly versatile with a pistol grip/in-line system similar to that of the DeWALT DCF680N2 Screwdriver, what the DeWALT DW920K-2 Screwdriver brings to the table is sheer, unrelenting power.

With a maximum 80 inch-pounds of torque, this beast of a machine can take on any screwdriver job you have with ease.

The DeWALT DW920K-2 Cordless Two-Position Screwdriver comes with a convenient carrying case. As spacious as it is durable, the DeWALT DW920K-2 Cordless Two-Position Screwdriver’s carrying case is a hard rugged shell designed to take a beating.

Like we said before, not only does the DeWALT DW920K-2 Screwdriver bring a huge amount of power to the table, it also uses handy multi-grip style technology. Combine the leverage you can get from using the pistol grip function with the power this tool can bring to bear and the DW920K-2 Screwdriver will turn into a virtual bulldozer in your hands.

# 3 - Black and Decker LI4000

The only real downside to cordless screwdrivers is that this new kind of tool can seem pretty intimidating to an inexperienced craftsman. Black+Decker has the solution with the Black and Decker LI4000 3.6Volt Lithium-Ion SmartSelect Screwdriver with Magnetic Screw Holder. This unique tool brings tons of beginner friendly innovation to the table ensuring that cordless screwdrivers are available and accessible to craftsmen of every skill level.

This excellent utility tool is the dream of every amateur craftsman come true. It’s magnetic screw holder allows the user to keep their other hand free to balance on a ladder or hold another tool.

The built-in LED flashlight pairs well with the magnetic screw holder to make sure that the user’s free hand never has to be filled with a flashlight.

A common concern among people not used to cordless screwdrivers is stripped screws. Luckily, the LI4000 Screwdriver comes standard with a unique six-position clutch, to make sure you never strip a screw again.