Pro Tool Reviews consults with innovators in the technology and design of tools to gain a broader grasp of where these products fit and how they work. Most people have a budget they’d like to stay in when they’re buying a drill. As I’m shopping, I first consider the performance followed by features and ergonomics. I’m a value guy, so I’m always looking for the best balance of everything (plus a sale price if I’m lucky). However, your priorities may be different—that’s why we offered so many recommendations and information to help you compare.
These are the best dewalt drills you can get online right now. Reviewed’s mission is to help you buy the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. Our team of product experts thoroughly vet every product we recommend to help you cut through the clutter and find what you need.
If the DeWalt DCD701F2 12-volt drill is not available, and you’re willing to make a few compromises, we also like the Bosch PS31-2A 12V Max 3/8 in. This model was once our top pick, and it has a lot of power—similar to what the DeWalt 12-volt drill offers. But the Bosch drill has a longer body, and the dewalt drill ergonomics aren’t anywhere near as good. You could have the most powerful drill in the world, but if it’s not comfortable to hold, you probably won’t want to use it. We sought out a drill that was small, comfortable to hold (for both large and small hands), relatively light, and nicely balanced.
They aren’t designed for all-day aggressive use, but they are more than capable for basic home maintenance and repair, and if needed they can sink a 3-inch screw on occasion. In our tests, it was common to see a 12-volt drill bore over 20 1-inch holes through a 2-by-10 on a single battery charge. This is clearly enough oomph for tasks like swapping out light dewalt circular saw fixtures, building a bookshelf, and making minor drywall repairs. It’s also enough power for an occasional foray into more aggressive work, like fixing a saggy gutter or replacing a few rotted deck boards. Lightweight and compact for working in tight spaces for long periods of time, DeWalt’s Max XR is a lighter drill driver with a weight of 3.4 pounds.
If the work or projects you have planned are space-limited, be sure to check the head length as well. The ergonomics of a drill can make or break your experience. One that’s overweight, poorly balanced, or doesn’t feel right in your hand can make every day feel like Monday. As you’re shopping, see if you can pick up the drill you’re considering and see how it feels in your hand. Work the trigger and all the controls to make sure there’s nothing about the physical design that is a deal-breaker for you. DeWalt 20V Max XR Power Detect Hammer Drill DCD998High-performance brushless hammer drill that gets a boost when you use a 20V Max 8.0Ah or higher.
The drill’s short length is reflected in the tool’s weight, with the Milwaukee (with a battery installed) weighing only 3 pounds 3 ounces, lighter than all but one other 18-volt drill. The Milwaukee’s great usability is only increased by the excellent handle, foot-style battery, and solid belt hook. On a single battery charge, the Milwaukee 18-volt drilled 83 1-inch holes through the 2-by-10. This is nearly three times that of the DeWalt 12-volt, and among the best showings of the 18- and 20-volt drills we tested.
It also heated up faster than those other two during more strenuous testing. Still, it’s a nice combination of size and power—one we believe is well suited to the entry-level DIYer. This model is also a fairly inexpensive way to get started with Ridgid’s large, 18-volt platform. Also, this drill lacks the small convenience features we like so much on the DeWalt DCD701F2 drill, such as the useful light placement and the foot-style battery.