Best Cordless Drills for 2024

Best Cordless Drills – Introduction

Cordless drills are essential power tools, providing the freedom to tackle projects without the constraints of a power cord. In 2024, cordless drills come with advanced features like extended battery life, higher torque, and improved durability. From light DIY tasks to heavy-duty professional projects, choosing the right cordless drill is key to efficient and precise work. This guide explores the top cordless drills of 2024, with options tailored for different needs, including home use, contractor-grade durability, and high-torque applications.

Top Cordless Drills for 2024

Here’s a breakdown of the top cordless drills of 2024, each selected for its unique strengths and best-fit applications:

1. Best Overall Drill: DeWalt DCD791D2 20V MAX XR

Balancing power, battery life, and value, the DeWalt DCD791D2 is a reliable choice for both professional and home use.

  • Key Specs: 20V MAX XR lithium-ion battery, 2-speed transmission (0-550 & 0-2,000 RPM), and a brushless motor.
  • Pros: Exceptional battery life, compact and lightweight, high torque.
  • Cons: Slightly more expensive but offers lasting value.
  • Best For: Users seeking a powerful, versatile drill for various projects.

2. Most Powerful Cordless Drill: Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2804-20

This high-torque cordless drill is perfect for demanding tasks, offering impressive power for heavy-duty applications.

  • Key Specs: 18V lithium-ion battery, 1,200 in-lbs of peak torque, and 2-speed setting.
  • Pros: Industry-leading torque, robust build, and Redlink Plus Intelligence for efficiency.
  • Cons: Higher price point, but unmatched in power and durability.
  • Best For: Heavy-duty projects, construction sites, and users needing maximum torque.

3. Best for Contractors: Makita XFD131 18V LXT

Known for its durable construction and reliable power, the Makita XFD131 is built to handle daily wear in professional environments.

  • Key Specs: 18V lithium-ion battery, 440 in-lbs of max torque, and variable speed (0-500 & 0-1,900 RPM).
  • Pros: Compact, efficient, and has a rapid charger.
  • Cons: Mid-range torque; ideal for contractors but may need a heavier-duty option for extreme applications.
  • Best For: Contractors who need a dependable, daily-use drill with long battery life.

4. Best Cordless Drill for Home Use: BLACK+DECKER LD120VA 20V MAX

For occasional DIY projects, this affordable and lightweight model is user-friendly, perfect for home repairs and light woodworking.

  • Key Specs: 20V MAX lithium-ion battery, 115 in-lbs of torque, 11-position clutch.
  • Pros: Lightweight, easy to handle, and budget-friendly.
  • Cons: Lower torque, not suited for heavy-duty tasks.
  • Best For: Homeowners needing a versatile tool for light to moderate tasks around the house.

5. Best Drill with Two Batteries: Bosch PS31-2A 12V Max

The Bosch PS31-2A includes two batteries, allowing users to work uninterrupted by quick battery swaps during projects.

  • Key Specs: 12V Max lithium-ion battery, 265 in-lbs of torque, and 2-speed transmission.
  • Pros: Compact, lightweight, dual batteries for longer work periods.
  • Cons: Moderate power; not ideal for high-torque applications.
  • Best For: Light to moderate DIY and professional tasks where portability and uninterrupted runtime are needed.

Key Features to Consider

When selecting a cordless drill, understanding the features that impact performance and convenience is essential:

1. Battery Type and Life Expectancy

  • Battery Type: Lithium-ion batteries are standard in 2024, offering high energy density, lightweight, and longer life cycles compared to older NiCad batteries.
  • Life Expectancy: The longevity of a drill’s battery depends on usage frequency and maintenance. Typically, lithium-ion batteries can last 3-5 years under normal conditions.

2. Torque, Power, and Speed Settings

  • Torque and Power: High-torque drills (600+ in-lbs) are suited for heavy-duty tasks, while moderate torque (200-400 in-lbs) suffices for most home projects.
  • Speed Settings: Many drills feature two-speed settings (low for driving screws, high for drilling holes), allowing for better control based on task requirements.

3. Drill Ergonomics and Ease of Use

  • A comfortable grip and well-balanced design are essential, especially for extended use. Lightweight models with ergonomic handles reduce fatigue, while LED lights and built-in belts add convenience.

Cordless vs. Corded Drills

Cordless drills are unmatched in portability, but how do they compare to their corded counterparts?

  • Cordless Advantages: Flexibility, freedom of movement, and improved lithium-ion batteries that allow longer usage make cordless drills a practical choice for most users.
  • Corded Advantages: While corded drills offer unlimited power, making them ideal for extended, heavy-duty use, they lack the convenience and portability of cordless models.
  • Recommendation: For most DIYers and professionals, a high-quality cordless drill provides ample power and flexibility. However, users who need consistent, high-powered drilling over long periods may benefit from keeping a corded drill as well.

Conclusion

The best cordless drills of 2024 offer a range of choices, from heavy-duty professional models to affordable and user-friendly options for home use. Whether you’re looking for high torque, uninterrupted runtime, or simply a reliable tool for household repairs, this guide has recommendations for every need. For those looking to build a versatile toolkit, start by selecting the drill that best aligns with your projects, then explore other power tool guides on our Main Power Tools Page.

Ready to dive into detailed comparisons and find the perfect fit? Check out each individual guide, from Best Hammer Drills for Concrete to Best Power Tool Combo Kits, to make an informed choice.