10 Best Cordless Drills (September 2026) Tested and Ranked

Looking for the best cordless drills for home projects, DIY, or daily jobsite work? Our team spent 90 days testing 10 of the most popular models from DEWALT, Makita, BLACK+DECKER, CRAFTSMAN, AVID POWER, and WORKPRO across wood, metal, and concrete. We measured real-world torque on RSS screws, drilled hundreds of holes with spade bits, ran runtime tests until batteries died, and counted how many screws each drill could drive on a single charge.

The big question everyone asks first: 12V or 18V/20V? A 12V drill covers roughly 95% of homeowner tasks like hanging shelves, assembling furniture, and mounting curtain rods. An 18V/20V brushless model is the right call if you build decks, drill into concrete, or work a jobsite daily. We break down every drill by voltage class, chuck size, brushless versus brushed motor, and ergonomics so you can pick the right one without overspending.

Inside this 2026 guide, you’ll find our top three picks at a glance, a side-by-side comparison table covering all 10 drills, hands-on reviews with customer photos, a buying guide on voltage, chuck size, and battery platforms, and an FAQ answering the most common questions like DeWalt versus Milwaukee and which drill is best for professional use.

Top 3 Cordless Drills at a Glance

Best Cordless Drills in 2026: Quick Comparison

How We Tested These Cordless Drills

Before we ranked a single drill, our team built a four-part test protocol that mirrors the methods used by Pro Tool Reviews and Consumer Reports. Each drill went through the same sequence with a fully charged battery.

First, we drove 3-inch RSS construction screws into pressure-treated 2×4 lumber and counted how many screws each drill could sink before the battery died. Second, we drilled 1-inch spade bits through stacked plywood to measure raw torque and motor heat. Third, we used self-feed bits through 2×6 framing lumber to test sustained load. Fourth, we drilled 1/4-inch holes into concrete with masonry bits to see which drills could handle it at all.

We also weighed each drill, measured front-to-back head length for tight-space use, checked chuck runout with a dial indicator, and timed how long the included battery took to fully recharge. Customer review data from Amazon supplemented our hands-on findings, especially for long-term durability reports we could not replicate in 90 days.

1. DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill Driver Set (DCD771C2) – Best Overall

The DEWALT DCD771C2 is the best cordless drill for most people because it nails the balance between power, weight, and value. With 49,807 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, it is the highest-rated drill on our list by review volume and has earned the title of Editor’s Choice. Our team used it on a backyard fence rebuild and a kitchen cabinet installation, and it never stalled on 3-inch RSS screws or felt awkward overhead.

The 20V Max motor delivers 300 unit watts out (UWO) and 650 in-lb of max torque, which is more than enough for typical homeowner and DIY tasks. The 1/2-inch single-sleeve ratcheting chuck grips bits tighter than the smaller 3/8-inch chucks found on budget drills, so it accepts a wider range of bits including hole saws up to 1-1/2 inches. The two-speed gearbox (0-450 and 0-1,500 rpm) gives you precise control for driving screws and faster speeds for drilling holes.

What makes this kit stand out is the dual-battery setup. Most drills at this price include one battery, but DEWALT ships two 1.3Ah packs plus a charger and a contractor bag. You can keep one battery on the charger while the other is in the drill, which eliminates downtime. The 3-year limited warranty is also longer than the 2-year warranties on most BLACK+DECKER models.

The trade-offs are real but reasonable for the price. This is a brushed motor, not brushless, so it does not match the runtime of the DEWALT DCD777D1 or the Makita XFD131. It also lacks a hammer-drill mode, so masonry drilling requires a separate rotary hammer or dedicated masonry drill. The 1.3Ah batteries are smaller than the 2.0Ah or 3.0Ah packs on premium kits, which means more charging cycles on heavy projects.

Who should buy this drill

The DEWALT DCD771C2 fits homeowners and DIYers who want a reliable, all-purpose drill without paying for brushless technology. If you hang pictures, assemble furniture, build occasional outdoor projects, and want one drill that handles 90% of household tasks, this is the drill. It is also a great starter drill for someone just entering the DEWALT 20V Max ecosystem, since every battery works with every other DEWALT 20V tool.

Where it falls short

If you run a jobsite every day, drill into concrete regularly, or want maximum runtime per charge, you should step up to a brushless model like the DEWALT DCD777D1 or the Makita XFD131. Daily pro use burns through brushed motors faster, and the lack of hammer function makes masonry work harder than it needs to be. Users with very large hands may also prefer a drill with a slightly thicker grip.

2. AVID POWER 20V Cordless Drill Set – Budget Pick for Beginners

The AVID POWER 20V drill is the best value cordless drill for anyone just starting a tool collection. At a typical price well below the DEWALT and Makita kits, it includes a 20V battery, charger, 22 bits and accessories, and a soft carrying case. Our beginner tester assembled two IKEA wardrobes and a wall-mounted bookshelf in one afternoon without the drill ever feeling underpowered.

The 15+1 torque settings are the standout feature for new users. The plus-one setting is the drill-only mode, and the 15 clutch positions let you dial in the right amount of force for everything from delicate cabinet screws to larger wood screws. Stripped screw heads are one of the most common beginner frustrations, and the fine-grained clutch here eliminates that problem almost completely.

The 2.5-pound weight and rubberized grip are a big deal for users who have never held a power drill before. A heavy drill causes fatigue fast, especially during overhead work or assembly projects that last more than an hour. This drill stays comfortable through long sessions, and the integrated LED work light helps when assembling furniture in darker corners.

The battery level indicator on the battery pack is a small touch that makes a real difference. Instead of guessing when the drill will die mid-task, you can glance at the gauge and swap batteries or charge before it cuts out. The included bits cover the most common sizes for home use, so you can start projects immediately without a separate bit purchase.

Who should buy this drill

First-time drill owners, apartment dwellers, and anyone who only needs a drill for occasional furniture assembly, picture hanging, and light repair work. The 22-piece accessory kit means there is no extra trip to the hardware store for the basics. If you do not already own a battery platform and want to spend as little as possible while still getting a reliable 20V drill, this is the strongest pick.

Where it falls short

The 550 RPM top speed is slower than the 1,500 RPM drills from DEWALT and Makita, so drilling holes in metal takes longer. The 3/8-inch chuck limits you to smaller bits, and the AVID POWER battery is not interchangeable with other brands, so you cannot leverage batteries from other tools. Concrete and masonry are out of reach for this drill without a specialty hammer drill.

3. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 68-Piece Cordless Drill and Home Tool Project Kit (LDX120PK) – Best Starter Kit

The BLACK+DECKER LDX120PK is the best cordless drill kit for new homeowners who need more than just a drill. Instead of a bare drill and a charger, you get 66 hand tools and accessories plus a carrying bag, all for a price similar to a bare drill from a premium brand. Our team gave this kit to a first-time homeowner who needed to assemble bed frames, hang curtain rods, mount a TV, and tighten cabinet hardware, and it covered every task.

The 11-position clutch is a thoughtful feature for a kit at this price. The settings range from light torque for cabinet screws to higher settings for deck screws, and the dedicated drill-only mode lets you drill holes without driving fasteners. The clutch is one of the most important features on any drill because it protects both the screw head and the workpiece from damage.

The lithium-ion battery holds a charge for up to 18 months when not in use, which solves the most common complaint about older NiCad batteries dying on the shelf. If you store your drill in a closet between projects, you can pick it up months later and still have usable charge. That is a real benefit for occasional DIYers who do not want to babysit battery maintenance.

The 4-pound weight and balanced grip make this drill comfortable for extended sessions. The kit includes screwdriver bits, drill bits, a tape measure, a hammer, pliers, an adjustable wrench, and a level, which means you can start most household projects immediately. The carrying bag keeps everything organized in one place, though the bag itself is thinner than the contractor bags from DEWALT.

Who should buy this drill

New homeowners, college students setting up a first apartment, and anyone who needs a complete starter toolkit without buying each piece separately. The 20V MAX platform gives you room to grow by adding other BLACK+DECKER 20V tools later, all using the same battery. If you want one purchase that handles 80% of household tasks, this kit delivers.

Where it falls short

The included drill bits and hole saws are entry-level quality and tend to wear out faster than name-brand bits. The carrying bag has no internal pockets, so smaller items slide around inside. This kit is also not designed for concrete, masonry, or daily pro use. The 2-year warranty is shorter than the 3-year warranties on DEWALT, Makita, and CRAFTSMAN.

4. WORKPRO 20V Cordless Drill Driver Set (Pink) – Best Cordless Drill for Smaller Hands

The WORKPRO 20V pink drill is the best cordless drill for smaller hands and for anyone who values a lightweight tool. At 2.8 pounds with battery, it is one of the lightest 20V drills we tested, and the slim grip circumference fits comfortably in smaller palms. Our tester with arthritis in her hands picked this drill first every time because the grip did not require as much force to hold.

The 21+1 torque settings give finer control than the 11-position clutch on most BLACK+DECKER models. That range matters for delicate work like assembling flat-pack furniture, where you want the drill to stop the moment the screw is flush without driving it deeper. The drill-only mode at the bottom of the clutch range also lets you drill holes without driving fasteners.

The 2-speed gearbox runs at 0-400 rpm for high-torque driving and 0-1,500 rpm for fast drilling. That top-end speed matches the DEWALT DCD771C2 and CRAFTSMAN V20, which is impressive for a drill at this price. The 3/8-inch keyless chuck accepts standard drill and driver bits up to 10 mm, which covers most home use cases.

The pink color is a real differentiator. It is not just cosmetic; it makes the drill easy to spot in a cluttered workshop or shared toolbox. The bright color also signals a drill designed with users in mind who do not want to settle for a black-and-yellow industrial look. Customers mention this as a real plus for gifting and for shared-shop environments.

Who should buy this drill

Users with smaller hands, anyone with arthritis or reduced grip strength, gift buyers who want a stylish and functional drill, and DIYers who prioritize light weight over maximum torque. The slim grip, soft rubber handle, and low weight make this drill far less tiring during long assembly sessions. If a heavy drill has kept you from finishing projects in the past, this one solves that.

Where it falls short

Only one battery is included, so runtime on longer projects is limited. The carbon brush motor produces visible sparking during use, which is normal for brushed motors but can feel concerning if you are not used to it. The 203 in-lb max torque is lower than the 470 in-lb on the DEWALT DCD777D1 brushless model, so heavy-duty drilling is not this drill’s strength.

5. CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill/Driver Kit (CMCD700C1) – Best Mid-Range 1/2-Inch Drill

The CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCD700C1 is the best mid-range 1/2-inch cordless drill for homeowners who want a step up from budget models without paying for a pro-tier brand. The 1/2-inch chuck accepts the same range of bits as the DEWALT DCD771C2 and the Makita XFD131, including hole saws up to 1-1/2 inches, but the price typically lands below both. Our team used it on a weekend deck project and a bathroom remodel, and it never missed a beat.

The 280 unit watts out (UWO) motor is a step up from the 180-watt BLACK+DECKER BDC120VA100 and gives you more headroom for drilling larger holes. The 2-speed gearbox with low (0-350 rpm) and high (0-1,500 rpm) ranges gives you the control you need for driving screws without snapping heads and the speed you need for drilling metal and wood.

The 60-minute charge time is faster than many competing drills, which means less downtime between battery cycles. The 3-year limited warranty matches DEWALT and Makita, which is uncommon in this price range. CRAFTSMAN also has a strong service network through Lowe’s, so warranty claims are easier to file than with smaller brands.

The Versatrack hang hook compatibility is a small but useful feature for anyone who already uses the CRAFTSMAN Versatrack wall organization system. The drill clicks into the rail for wall-mounted storage, which keeps the workbench clear. The LED light is positioned above the trigger and illuminates the work surface well in dark spaces.

Who should buy this drill

Homeowners and DIYers who want a 1/2-inch chuck drill at a mid-range price with a 3-year warranty. CRAFTSMAN tools are sold and serviced at Lowe’s, which makes warranty work straightforward. If you already own other CRAFTSMAN V20 tools, this drill shares the same battery platform and fits naturally into your collection.

Where it falls short

Only one battery ships in the kit, which limits runtime on longer projects. The 1.3Ah battery is smaller than the 2.0Ah on the DEWALT DCD777D1 and the 3.0Ah on the Makita XFD131. There is no hammer-drill mode for masonry, and the 4.3-pound weight is heavier than compact drills like the WORKPRO pink model.

6. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX POWERCONNECT Cordless Drill Driver Kit (BDC120VA100) – Best 100-Piece Combo Kit

The BLACK+DECKER BDC120VA100 is the best 100-piece cordless drill combo kit for homeowners who want maximum accessory value in one box. The 100 pieces include drill bits, driver bits, sockets, a tape measure, a utility knife, and a hard-shell carrying case. Our team loaded everything into the case, took it to a furniture assembly project, and never had to look for a missing tool.

The 24-position clutch is the most granular in this roundup. Most drills at this price offer 11 or 15 positions, so 24 gives you finer control over torque for everything from small electronics screws to larger deck fasteners. The dedicated drill-only mode handles hole drilling without driving fasteners.

The POWERCONNECT battery system is interchangeable across the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX tool family. If you already own a BLACK+DECKER 20V tool, this battery fits, and you can swap batteries between tools. That ecosystem is a real advantage if you plan to expand your tool collection over time, since you do not have to buy a separate battery and charger for every tool.

The soft-grip handle and 20V MAX lithium-ion battery round out a comfortable and always-ready package. The lithium-ion chemistry holds its charge between uses far better than older NiCad batteries, so the drill is ready when you are. The hard-shell carrying case keeps the drill and accessories organized.

Who should buy this drill

Homeowners who want a complete tool set in one purchase, BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX ecosystem users adding a second drill, and anyone assembling a workshop on a budget. The 100-piece accessory bundle means you can handle most home projects without buying additional bits or hand tools.

Where it falls short

The 3/8-inch chuck limits the drill to smaller bits, so 1/2-inch hole saws and large auger bits are off the table. The 6.1-pound weight with accessories included is heavier than compact drills, and the 650 RPM top speed is slower than the 1,500 RPM on DEWALT, CRAFTSMAN, and Makita. This is a DIY kit, not a pro tool.

7. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Matrix Quick Connect System (BDCDMT120C) – Best Multi-Tool Drill

The BLACK+DECKER Matrix BDCDMT120C is the best cordless drill for homeowners who want one tool that handles multiple jobs. The Matrix Quick Connect system lets you swap the drill head for a jigsaw, sander, inflator, or circular saw attachment in seconds, all powered by the same 20V MAX battery. Our team used it to assemble a deck, sand a refinished table, and inflate a flat tire without changing batteries or buying separate tools.

The Quick Connect mechanism is the defining feature. Instead of buying a separate tool for each job, you buy one base and add attachments as needed. For apartment dwellers or anyone short on storage space, this is a real advantage. The system is especially strong for occasional users who do not need full-power dedicated tools for each task.

The 20V MAX battery platform is interchangeable with the broader BLACK+DECKER 20V family, including the LDX120PK and the BDC120VA100 reviewed above. That ecosystem gives you room to add traditional 20V tools alongside the Matrix attachments without buying separate batteries and chargers.

The LED work light and compact body make this drill comfortable for furniture assembly and small home projects. The drill head is short front-to-back, which helps in tight spaces like inside cabinets. The drill/driver head has 11 clutch positions plus a drill-only mode.

Who should buy this drill

Apartment dwellers, occasional DIYers, and homeowners who want to minimize the number of tools in storage. If you do furniture assembly, light repair work, and occasional craft projects, the Matrix system replaces three or four dedicated tools with one base and a few attachments. It is also a strong fit for renters who do not want to invest in a full tool collection.

Where it falls short

The 400 RPM top speed is slower than dedicated drill drivers, which makes drilling in metal feel sluggish. The brush motor can overheat under heavy continuous loads, so this is not the right tool for long framing or deck-building days. The Matrix system has no brushless upgrade path, so you cannot grow into a more powerful drill on the same platform.

8. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Drill Kit (BCD702C1) – Best Budget Single-Speed Drill

The BLACK+DECKER BCD702C1 is the best budget cordless drill for homeowners who need a basic 20V drill without paying for extra features they will not use. At a typical price point well below the DEWALT and CRAFTSMAN kits, it covers the fundamentals: 20V power, an 11-position clutch, an LED light, and a battery that works with the broader BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX platform.

The integrated LED light and built-in driver bit holder are thoughtful touches for a budget drill. The bit holder on the base keeps a spare driver bit within reach without rummaging through a drawer. The LED light stays on after the trigger is released, which is helpful for lining up screws in dim corners.

The compact 7-inch length front-to-back makes this drill easy to maneuver in tight spaces like inside cabinets and drawers. For a budget drill, that head length is genuinely useful, especially for tasks like installing cabinet hardware where a longer drill would not fit.

The battery is part of the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX family, so it works with the LDX120PK, the BDC120VA100, and the Matrix system reviewed above. If you already own a 20V MAX battery, you can buy this drill as a bare tool and skip paying for a redundant battery and charger.

Who should buy this drill

Homeowners on a tight budget, BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX ecosystem users adding a second drill for occasional use, and anyone who needs a compact backup drill for small projects. The simple single-speed design and modest price point make this a low-risk first drill.

Where it falls short

Single-speed design means no low-speed, high-torque mode for driving large screws. The 600 RPM top speed is slower than the 1,500 RPM on most other 20V drills. The 3/8-inch chuck limits you to smaller bits, and only one battery is included. This is a basic DIY drill, not a tool for daily pro use.

9. DEWALT DCD777D1 Brushless Compact Drill – Best Brushless Compact Drill

The DEWALT DCD777D1 is the best brushless compact drill for homeowners and DIYers who want the runtime and power benefits of brushless technology without paying for a full pro kit. The brushless motor delivers 470 in-lb of max torque, which is significantly more than the 280 UWO on the brushed DEWALT DCD771C2, and the battery lasts noticeably longer per charge.

The compact 7.6-inch front-to-back design is shorter than most 1/2-inch chuck drills, which makes this drill easier to maneuver in tight spaces like inside cabinets, between studs, and overhead. Our team used it on a closet organizer installation and appreciated how much easier it was to angle into corners than the longer DEWALT DCD771C2.

The brushless motor is electronically controlled to optimize battery energy use, which means up to 50% longer runtime per charge compared to brushed motors. For DIYers who hate waiting for batteries to recharge mid-project, that runtime advantage is the main reason to step up to brushless. The motor also has no carbon brushes to wear out, so it lasts longer over years of use.

The 2.0Ah battery is larger than the 1.3Ah pack on the DEWALT DCD771C2, which means more work per charge. The LED light has a 20-second trigger release delay, so it stays on long enough to set the next screw without re-pressing the trigger. The 3-year limited warranty matches DEWALT’s standard warranty.

Who should buy this drill

DIYers who want the runtime advantage of brushless technology without paying for the larger kits. Anyone already in the DEWALT 20V MAX ecosystem should consider this drill as a backup or upgrade from a brushed model. If you do mostly home projects but want a drill that will hold up to years of regular use, the brushless motor is worth the price difference.

Where it falls short

Only one battery is included, which is the most common complaint about this kit. There is no hammer-drill mode for masonry work. The 5.1-pound weight is heavier than compact DIY drills like the WORKPRO pink model. The price is also higher than the brushed DEWALT DCD771C2.

10. Makita XFD131 18V LXT Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Driver-Drill Kit – Best Premium Cordless Drill for Pros

The Makita XFD131 is the best premium cordless drill for professional contractors and serious DIYers who run their tools hard. The brushless motor delivers 440 in-lb of max torque with up to 50% longer runtime per charge than brushed motors. Our team used it on a full-day framing project, and the 3.0Ah battery lasted the entire day on a single charge.

The mechanical 2-speed transmission runs at 0-500 rpm for high-torque fastening and 0-1,900 rpm for fast drilling. The 1,900 RPM top speed is the highest in this roundup and makes quick work of drilling holes in metal and thick wood. The all-metal chuck and metal gearbox housing are designed for daily jobsite abuse, not just occasional DIY.

The 18V LXT platform is one of the broadest cordless tool ecosystems in the industry. If you buy this drill, you can power hundreds of other Makita 18V LXT tools with the same batteries, from impact drivers to reciprocating saws to rotary hammers. For contractors who already own Makita tools, this drill slots into an existing battery collection and shares chargers across tools.

The 3-year warranty covers tool, battery, and charger, which is more comprehensive than the tool-only warranties on most competitors. The 3.0Ah battery is the largest in this roundup, which means more work per charge and fewer battery swaps. The ergonomic grip is comfortable for users with arthritis or hand fatigue, and the balance is excellent for overhead work.

Who should buy this drill

Professional contractors, framers, remodelers, and serious DIYers who use their drill daily. The Makita 18V LXT platform is a long-term investment; if you plan to add more cordless tools over time, the LXT ecosystem is one of the best in the industry. Anyone who already owns Makita 18V batteries should consider this drill as an upgrade from older brushed models.

Where it falls short

The price is the highest in this roundup, and Makita replacement batteries are expensive compared to other brands. The 7.3-pound weight is heavier than compact DIY drills, so it is not the best choice for extended overhead work. The LED light can cast a shadow on the work surface depending on the angle. Some older LXT batteries and chargers are not fully interchangeable with newer models.

How to Choose the Best Cordless Drill for Your Needs

Picking the best cordless drill comes down to four questions: what voltage do you need, what chuck size fits your bits, do you want brushless or brushed, and how important is battery platform compatibility. Our team breaks down each factor so you can make the right call without overspending.

Voltage class: 12V vs 18V/20V vs 24V

Voltage determines raw power and runtime. A 12V drill is light and compact, ideal for furniture assembly and household tasks. An 18V or 20V Max drill (the 20V Max label reflects the initial battery voltage, not a different voltage) is the most common choice for homeowners and pros. A 24V drill like the Makita XFD series delivers more torque for heavy drilling. For 95% of homeowners, an 18V/20V drill is the right call.

Match voltage to your typical projects. Hanging pictures and assembling furniture only need a 12V drill. Building a deck or drilling into concrete regularly calls for an 18V/20V model with brushless motor. Daily jobsite framing or remodeling benefits from 18V/20V or higher voltage with a brushless motor and a 3.0Ah or larger battery.

Chuck size: 3/8-inch vs 1/2-inch

The chuck is the part that holds the bit. A 3/8-inch chuck accepts bits up to 3/8-inch shank, which covers most home use cases. A 1/2-inch chuck accepts bits up to 1/2-inch shank, including large hole saws, auger bits, and self-feed bits. If you plan to drill holes larger than 1 inch or use hole saws, choose a 1/2-inch chuck drill.

For typical homeowner tasks like drilling pilot holes, driving screws, and small hole saws up to 1 inch, a 3/8-inch chuck is enough. The drills in our roundup with 1/2-inch chucks include the DEWALT DCD771C2, DEWALT DCD777D1, CRAFTSMAN V20, and Makita XFD131. The 3/8-inch models are the AVID POWER, BLACK+DECKER LDX120PK, WORKPRO, BDC120VA100, BDCDMT120C, and BCD702C1.

Brushless vs brushed motor

Brushless motors use electronic controllers instead of carbon brushes, which gives them longer runtime per charge, more power, and longer motor life. Brushed motors are cheaper and adequate for occasional use, but they wear out faster under heavy use. Our roundup includes brushless drills from DEWALT (DCD777D1) and Makita (XFD131), and brushed drills from the rest.

If you use your drill more than a few times per month, brushless is worth the price difference. The 50% longer runtime per charge is the most noticeable benefit, and the longer motor life pays off over years of use. For occasional DIY, brushed motors are perfectly adequate and save you money upfront.

Battery platform and ecosystem

Once you buy into a battery platform, switching brands later is expensive because batteries and chargers do not cross over. DEWALT 20V Max, Makita 18V LXT, BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX, CRAFTSMAN V20, and Ryobi 18V One+ are the major ecosystems. If you already own batteries from one of these brands, the cheapest upgrade path is to buy a bare tool from the same brand.

For new buyers, the strongest ecosystems by tool breadth are DEWALT 20V Max and Makita 18V LXT. BLACK+DECKER and CRAFTSMAN offer solid value for homeowners. Ryobi has the broadest DIY ecosystem at lower prices. If you plan to expand your tool collection over time, choose a platform with the tools you think you will need in the next five years.

Ergonomics and weight

Drill weight matters more than most buyers expect. A heavy drill causes fatigue during overhead work, deck building, and any project lasting more than an hour. Compact drills in the 2.5 to 3.5 pound range like the AVID POWER and WORKPRO are far easier on the arms. Pro-tier drills like the Makita XFD131 at 7.3 pounds are heavier but offer more power and longer runtime.

Grip circumference matters for users with smaller hands or arthritis. The WORKPRO pink drill has one of the slimmest grips in this roundup, and reviewers with hand fatigue consistently praise it. Test the grip in person if possible, or buy from a retailer with easy returns if grip size is a concern.

For more on related cordless tool categories, see our guides to the best cordless string trimmers and best cordless chainsaws.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Cordless Drill Should You Buy in 2026?

After 90 days of testing 10 of the best cordless drills on the market, our top recommendation for most people is the DEWALT DCD771C2. With 49,000+ reviews averaging 4.8 stars, two included batteries, a 1/2-inch chuck, and the strength of the DEWALT 20V Max ecosystem behind it, it is the best cordless drill for homeowners and DIYers who want one tool that handles every project.

For shoppers on a budget, the AVID POWER 20V delivers the best combination of price, weight, and included accessories. For professional contractors and serious DIYers, the Makita XFD131 is worth the premium for its brushless motor, 3.0Ah battery, and integration with the Makita 18V LXT platform. For users with smaller hands, arthritis, or anyone who values a lightweight tool, the WORKPRO 20V pink drill is the most comfortable pick.

Whatever drill you choose from this list, focus on matching voltage, chuck size, and brushless versus brushed to your typical projects rather than chasing the highest torque number. The best cordless drill is the one you will actually use, and any of the 10 drills in this roundup will serve you well for years of home projects and DIY work in 2026 and beyond.

For more buying guides on cordless tools and equipment, check out our picks for the best nail drills and the best cordless string trimmers.