Who makes the best cordless drill? DeWalt? Makita? Milwaukee? Harbor Freight??? We evaluated 9 of the highest-performing cordless hammer drills from popular brands using objective hands-on tests we developed specifically to simulate real-world jobsite conditions. When the sawdust settled, we ranked each cordless drill in a variety of categories to determine which ones rise above the rest.
Best Cordless Drill Winners
- Best Overall: Flex 24V Brushless Hammer Drill with Turbo FX1271T
↓ Jump to this Drill - Runner Up: DeWalt 20V Max XR Hammer Drill DCD1007
↓ Jump to this Drill - Third Place: Makita 40V max XGT Brushless Hammer Drill GPH01
↓ Jump to this Drill - Best for the Money: Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless PBLHM102
↓ Jump to this Drill
Scoring
Note that the scoring is different from our normal rating system. The scores are based on how each drill performed and compared in this specific group and this set of tests only. Our typical rating system offers a comparison of the tool to the entire range of what is available. Here’s how to interpret the scores from this test:
- 90 – 100: Outstanding. You’ll love using this drill.
- 80 – 89: Excellent. There may be minor tradeoffs.
- 70 – 79: Very good. There are more significant tradeoffs.
- 60 – 69: Good. Notable tradeoffs, but still earns our recommendation.
- < 60: Not recommended in the high-performance drill class.
Jump to these Sections for More Information
- Other Models We Tested
- More Cordless Drills We Recommend
- Comparing Cordless Drill Specifications
- Testing Methods and Full Results
- What to Look for When You’re Shopping (Buyer’s Guide)
- Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews
Best Cordless Drill
Flex 24V Brushless Hammer Drill with Turbo FX1271T
Score: 95 points
- Speeds: 0 – 700/2500 RPM
- Max Hammer Rate: 40,000 BPM
- Max Torque: 1,400 in-lbs
- Length: 7.1 inches
- Bare Weight: 3.7 lbs’
- Tested Weight: 6.0 lbs w/6.0Ah Stacked Lithium battery
- Price: $149 bare, $249 – $279 kit
Pros
- Highest overall performance
- Kickback control
- Selectable Turbo creates four operating modes
- Balance makes it feel very nimble
- Best grip security of the group
- Excellent value
- Lifetime warranty w/registration
Cons
- Heavier than average
Flex launched its 24V line with the FX1371T hammer drill, and it continues to be a top-performing model several years later. Its high speed and high torque ratings showed in our testing, where it earned the highest overall performance score using a 6.0Ah Stacked Lithium battery. If you’re a Pro, going with the Stacked Lithium kit is, without a doubt, the way to go.
It’s not just about speed and torque for Flex, though. This is a full-featured drill that includes kickback control, and the Turbo mode effectively makes it a four-speed drill. While the weight does creep up a bit, the balance is outstanding, making it feel more nimble than the weight alone suggests. It also helps that Flex had the grippiest overmold of the group.
Flex offers a solid value as well. With pricing that comes in less than flagship models from DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee, plus a lifetime warranty to back it up, you get a lot for your money.
Head-to-Head Testing Results
Test | 6.0Ah Stacked Lithium Battery |
---|---|
RSS Screw | 2.22 sec (2nd place) |
Spade Bit | 2.42 sec (1st place) |
Self-Feed Bit | 1.84 sec (4th place) |
Concrete Bit | 5.66 sec (1st place) |
Best Cordless Drill Runner Up
DeWalt 20V Max XR Hammer Drill DCD1007
Score: 91 points
- Speeds: 0 – 450/1,300/2,000 RPM (0 – 500/1,500/2,250 RPM in hammer drilling mode)
- Max Hammer Rate: 38,250 BPM
- Max Power: 1530 UWO
- Length: 7.5 inches
- Bare Weight: 4.2 lbs
- Tested Weight: 6.3 lbs w/ 8.0Ah PowerPack battery
- Price: $249 bare, $349 kit
Pros
- Top tier performance
- Kickback control
- Operates at higher speeds in hammer drilling mode
- Three speed gearbox
- Helpful LED light controls, including a pivoting 20-min work light
- Broad range of compatible tools and batteries
Cons
- Heavier than other models
- Expensive
The new DCD1007 is the clear performance leader in this robust lineup, and it was the second-highest performing drill in our tests. To get the most from the DCD1007, you need to use a PowerPack battery, which offers the best performance we’ve seen from DeWalt while avoiding the weight penalty of using a FlexVolt battery.
This model maintains DeWalt’s 3-mode gearbox, which has an all-important middle gear for when high speed isn’t quite enough but you don’t want to drop into low gear. Also, note that this drill operates at higher speeds in all three gears when you’re in hammer drilling mode.
There are a couple of nice features as well. Kickback control is in play, and you have LED light controls that other drills don’t include. The pivoting 20-minute work light mode is particularly helpful.
With an 8.0Ah PowerPack battery, this drill pushes over 6 pounds and is tied as the heaviest in our test group. The size did come down from the DCD999, though, so it’s better in tight spaces. DeWalt has a wide range of drills on its 20V Max system, so you can always pick up a more compact supplement if you need it.
Head-to-Head Testing Results
Test | 8.0Ah PowerPack Battery |
---|---|
RSS Screw | 2.42 sec (3rd place) |
Spade Bit | 2.54 sec (2nd place) |
Self-Feed Bit | 1.73 sec (2nd place) |
Concrete Bit | 6.39 sec (2nd place) |
Third Place
Makita 40V max XGT Brushless Hammer Drill GPH01
Score: 87 points
- Speeds: 0 – 650/2,600 RPM
- Max Hammer Rate: 39,000 BPM
- Max Torque: 1,250 in-lbs
- Length: 7.1 inches
- Bare Weight: 3.7 lbs
- Tested Weight: 5.8 lbs w/4.0Ah High Power battery
- Price: $244 bare, $499 kit
Pros
- Top-tier performance
- Incredibly smooth operation
- Kickback control
- Electronic clutch settings
- Quickly expanding system that reaches into high power loads
Cons
- Expensive
- Chuck tends to slip when ratcheting down on bits
Makita ended up with a solid set of results using its advanced XGT High Power battery. It delivered excellent power and speed in mid-range tasks and got even better as the load increased. Its ranking in concrete drilling dropped a bit, but don’t let that discourage you. When the more demanding tasks come calling, the Makita GPH01 is more than capable.
What you can’t tell from our test results is how smooth this drill is. Ergonomically, it’s excellent with a shape that’s comfortable to hold. Plus, the size is compact for its performance level, and the working weight is lower than you’d expect from a 40V max battery system.
As for features, Makita includes kickback control on this model. For those of you who are more OCD in driving mode, there are 41, yes 41, electronic clutch settings in low speed and 21 settings in high gear. Having that many settings and electronically controlling them are characteristics you won’t find on other drills we tested.
There are a couple of downsides. One is the price—this is a premium hammer drill with the price to match. The chuck collar also tends to slip when you ratchet down hard on a bit.
Head-to-Head Testing Results
Test | 4.0Ah High Power Battery |
---|---|
RSS Screw | 2.03 sec (1st place) |
Spade Bit | 2.62 sec (3rd place, tie) |
Self-Feed Bit | 1.59 sec (1st place) |
Concrete Bit | 7.56 sec (6th place) |
Best Cordless Drill for the Money
Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless Hammer Drill PBLHM102
Score: 65 points
- Speeds: 0 – 700/2,150 RPM
- Max Hammer Rate: 34,400 BPM
- Max Torque: 850 in-lbs
- Length: 7.5 inches
- Bare Weight: 3.1 lbs
- Tested Weight: 4.6 lbs w/4.0Ah High Performance Edge battery
- Price: $129 bare, $279 kit
Pros
- Excellent value
- Significantly Improved performance over the previous model
- Improved size and ergonomics compared to previous Ryobi drills
- Extensive system of compatible tools and lifestyle products
Cons
- Not as powerful as other drills in this test
- People with smaller hands may not like the larger grip
While you don’t normally see the Ryobi name among Pro-focused brands, there are a number of Pros who rely on them. Apartment maintenance crews and handymen favor them thanks to legit mid-range performance, the convenience of purchasing at Home Depot, and a more affordable price tag.
As the HP Brushless lineup rolled out for Ryobi, one of the big things we noticed was how much smaller many of the tools are. That’s the case for their flagship hammer drill, sitting at a mid-range 7.5 inches long and well under 5 pounds with a battery. It’s a significant change for a brand that used to be on the bigger, heavier side of the conversation.
Owning the lowest-rated torque of the group, its results weren’t surprising, though it had a podium finish in concrete drilling. The drill had no trouble completing our tests, though, and it is easier to handle than some of the larger, heavier models we tested.
For maintenance crews and handymen, it’s a very good choice based on its performance and design. What makes it more compelling than its competitors is that Ryobi now has more than 400 products that all work on any 18V One+ battery. Chances are, if you need it, Ryobi has it. And if they don’t, most likely, no one else in the Prosumer class does, either.
Head-to-Head Testing Results
Test | 4.0Ah High-Performance Edge Battery |
---|---|
RSS Screw | 5.92 sec (8th place) |
Spade Bit | 3.08 sec (6th place, tie) |
Self-Feed Bit | 4.26 sec (8th place) |
Concrete Bit | 6.74 sec (3rd place) |
Other Models We Tested
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Hammer Drill (Gen 4) 2904
Score: 85 points
- Speeds: 0 – 500/2100 RPM
- Max Hammer Rate: 33,000 BPM
- Max Torque: 1,400 in-lbs
- Length: 7.0 inches
- Bare Weight: 3.2 lbs
- Tested Weight: 5.6 lbs w/8.0Ah Forge battery
- Price: $199 bare, $299 kit
Pros
- The most compact
- Lightweight
- Top tier performance
- Kickback control
- Broad range of compatible tools and batteries
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- High-capacity batteries can throw the balance off
Milwaukee’s 4th generation M18 Fuel hammer drill has been solid from the outset. Among legitimate high-performance models, the 2904 is the most compact and the weight is very light among its competitors.
With a field full of top competitors using advanced batteries, Milwaukee slipped out of the top 3 in performance, but there’s no question it’s still in the top tier. In three of our four tests, it was within a 1/2-second of the leader, which also goes to show just how competitive this class is.
With the 4th edition, Milwaukee added kickback control for the first time. Aside from that, it has everything we expect from a Pro-grade hammer drill but doesn’t expand much from there. However, there is a One-Key upgrade available that offers tracking, inventory management, and customizable controls. That’s model 2906 if you’re interested.
Head-to-Head Testing Results
Test | 8.0Ah Forge Battery |
---|---|
RSS Screw | 2.49 sec (4th place) |
Spade Bit | 2.62 sec (3rd place, tie) |
Self-Feed Bit | 1.89 sec (5th place) |
Concrete Bit | 6.84 sec (4th place) |
Metabo HPT 36V Hammer Drill DV36DC
Score: 78 points
- Speeds: 0 – 550/2,200 RPM
- Max Hammer Rate: 33,000 BPM
- Max Torque: 1,400 in-lbs
- Length: 7.5 inches
- Bare Weight: 3.9 lbs
- Tested Weight: 5.5 lbs with a 2.5Ah battery
- Price: $299 kit
Pros
- Solid performance
- Lightweight
- Kickback control
- Compatible with Metabo HPT’s AC adapter
- Battery works with Metabo HPT 18V or 36V tools
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Tool body is larger than others
Metabo HPT’s 36V hammer drill is among the leaders in speed and torque. Don’t let its mid-range rankings fool you, though. Its performance is well within sight of the leaders. Considering we didn’t have the new tabless battery in time for our testing, its maximized performance will likely be even closer.
Using the 2.5Ah battery we tested with (the equivalent of a 5.0Ah battery for 18V/20V max systems), the weight was a refreshing 5.5 pounds. When you’ve been using drills over 6 pounds, it’s a noticeable difference.
There are a couple of features worth pointing out. Like quite a few of the models in our test group, Metabo HPT includes kickback control. It’s also the only model we tested that has the option of using an AC adapter for power. I know, I know, cutting the cord is why you buy a cordless drill in the first place. But if you get into a battery bind, at least you have it as an option. Considering it also works on Metabo HPT’s 36V cordless table saw, miter saws, and other tools on the platform, it’s not a bad idea to have it on hand.
Head-to-Head Testing Results
Test | 2.5Ah Battery |
---|---|
RSS Screw | 2.70 sec (5th place) |
Spade Bit | 3.07 sec (5th place) |
Self-Feed Bit | 1.96 sec (6th place) |
Concrete Bit | 7.28 sec (5th place) |
Ridgid 18V Brushless High-Torque Hammer Drill R861152
Score: 76 points
- Speeds: 0 – 550/2,000 RPM
- Max Hammer Rate: 32,000 BPM
- Max Torque: 1,250 in-lbs
- Length: 7.2 inches
- Bare Weight: 3.5 lbs
- Tested Weight: 5.8 lbs w/8.0Ah Max Output EXP battery
- Price: $149 bare
Pros
- Solid performance
- Kickback control
- Excellent value
- Lifetime service agreement with registration
Cons
- No significant drawbacks
Ridgid’s most recent brushless drills have been a breath of fresh air since leaving the Octane line behind. Even with the High-Torque R861152 model, it’s much more compact and lighter than we’ve been used to seeing from Ridgid, making for a more pleasant user experience.
Stepping up to Ridgid’s new Max Output EXP battery, we saw better results than the last time we ran our head-to-head tests. While its rankings were generally mid-pack, the R8621152 kept up better and did very well under the heaviest loads.
As usual, Ridgid keeps its price down by skipping some of the advanced features premium models have. However, this model does include kickback control, giving you one of the most important Pro upgrades we look for.
Head-to-Head Testing Results
Test | 8.0Ah Max Output EXP Battery |
---|---|
RSS Screw | 2.72 sec (6th place) |
Spade Bit | 3.08 sec (6th place, tie) |
Self-Feed Bit | 1.79 sec (3rd place) |
Concrete Bit | 7.71 sec (7th place) |
Bosch 18V Profactor Brushless Hammer Drill GSB18V-1330CN
Score: 75 points
- Speeds: 0 – 550/2,200 RPM
- Max Hammer Rate: 30,000 BPM
- Max Torque: 1,330 in-lbs
- Length: 8.1 inches
- Bare Weight: 4.1 lbs
- Tested Weight: 6.3 lbs w/8.0Ah Core18V High Power battery
- Price: $199 bare, $319 kit
Pros
- Strong performance
- Selectable kickback control
- Electronic angle detection
- Optional smart upgrade by adding a Connected Module
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Heavier than other models
- Larger than other models
- Doesn’t offer as much grip overmold as others
Bosch proved its flagship hammer drill to be a solid all-around performer. While it didn’t rise very far up the rankings, it didn’t feel like it was being outclassed by other models. From a performance perspective, there’s no reason to shy away from it, and current Bosch users shouldn’t feel like they need to switch brands.
The downside is that this is a larger, heavier hammer drill compared to the others. Keep in mind that Bosch’s 18V line is robust, and there are more compact models you can grab as a supplement when you’re working on lighter-duty tasks.
Three key features help Bosch stand out from the competition. For one, it has kickback protection that you can turn off if you don’t want to use it. You can also turn it into a smart tool by adding the Connected Module. Finally, it’s the only model in our test group that includes an electronic angle detection function to help you drill and drive straighter.
Head-to-Head Testing Results
Test | 8.0Ah Core18V High Power Battery |
---|---|
RSS Screw | 2.88 sec (7th place) |
Spade Bit | 3.29 sec (8th place) |
Self-Feed Bit | 2.09 sec (7th place) |
Concrete Bit | 8.94 sec (8th place) |
Hercules 24V Brushless Hammer Drill HCB92B
Score: 53 points
- Speeds: 0 – 550/2,000 RPM
- Max Hammer Rate: 32,000 BPM
- Max Torque: 1,200 in-lbs
- Length: 7.1 inches
- Bare Weight: 3.3 lbs
- Tested Weight: 4.8 lbs with a 4.0Ah Extreme battery
- Price: $79.99 bare
Pros
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Low price
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Couldn’t keep up with other drills in this test
Harbor Freight made bold claims about the performance of its latest Hercules hammer drill. To its credit, it has outperformed most other drills we’ve tested in the DIY/Prosumer class. Targeting Milwaukee’s Gen 4 M18 Fuel hammer drill as a comparison in its marketing, it failed to beat that model in any of the tests and never really made a competitive challenge. Note that it was able to complete all of our tests, though.
Compared to the other flagship drills in our test, Hercules does a nice job of keeping the weight and size on the lower side of the scale.
We haven’t used this drill enough to make a recommendation on its long-term reliability. However, Harbor Freight now offers a 5-year warranty that’s sure to raise eyebrows. Nevertheless, Harbor Freight lists it as a professional hammer drill. I’m not convinced it’s ready for that designation. For DIY use, it’s an attractive option.
Head-to-Head Testing Results
Test | 4.0Ah Extreme Battery |
---|---|
RSS Screw | 7.98 sec (9th place) |
Spade Bit | 3.88 sec (9th place) |
Self-Feed Bit | 5.50 sec (9th place) |
Concrete Bit | 9.52 sec (9th place) |
More Cordless Drills We Recommend
Not every drill we’ve used went through our full suite of flagship testing. However, after putting them to use, they’re certainly worth your consideration.
Greenworks 24V Brushless Drill Driver
- Speeds: 0 – 380/1,450 RPM
- Max Torque: 310 in-lbs
- Bare Weight: 2.3 pounds
- Working Weight: 3.2 lbs w/2.0Ah battery
- Price: $99.99 kit
If you’re looking for a drill to use around the house for DIY projects, Greenworks has a 24V brushless model worth considering. It’s a 2-speed model with 1,450 RPM on the top end and 310 in-lbs of torque. This model is reasonably lightweight. Furthermore, it has batteries that double as USB power supplies to charge your devices on the go.
Thinking about going with battery power for your lawn care tools (or maybe you already have)? These tools work with the same batteries Greenworks uses in its 24V and 2 x 24V outdoor power equipment.
Hilti Nuron 22V High-Torque Drill SF 10W-22 ATC
- Speeds: 0 – 330/560/1,300/2,230 RPM
- Max Torque: 1062 in-lbs
- Head Length: 9.4 inches
- Bare Weight: 4.8 pounds
- Working Weight: 7.7 lbs w/B22-170 battery
- Price: $399 bare
Hilti’s Nuron High-Torque Drill is a beast of a tool. It’s large, it’s heavy, and packed with muscle that powers through tough tasks better than most of its competition. ATC kickback control helps reduce the risk of injury while four gears handle everything from mud mixing to high-speed drilling. The downside is that this one of the most expensive drills on the market… but it’s a darn good one.
Kobalt 24V XTR Hammer Drill
- Speeds: 0 – 550/2,000 RPM
- Max Blow Rate: 32,000 BPM
- Max Torque: 1200 in-lbs
- Head Length: 7.8 inches
- Bare Weight: 3.2 pounds
- Price: $229 kit
Kobalt’s XTR hammer drill is a solid all-around performer that’s attractive to serious DIYers and value-minded Pros. It’s not going to challenge premium models in a speed test, but it can confidently do all the same jobs. Plus, kickback control adds a safety layer to help reduce the risk of injury.
If you don’t need the hammer function, the drill driver kit is a smokin’ hot deal at just $99!
Skil PWRCore 20 Brushless Compact Hammer Drill HD6294B-10
- Speeds: 0 – 500/1,800 RPM
- Max Blow Rate: 27,000 BPM
- Max Torque: 450 in-lbs
- Head Length: 6.6 inches
- Bare Weight: 2.0 pounds
- Price: $129 kit
Even though Skil’s PWRCore 20 Brushless Compact Hammer Drill isn’t in the same class as the other drills in our tests above, it’s worth serious consideration. It has a compact, lightweight design yet still has the power to complete the majority of weekend projects and DIY repairs around your home. And if you don’t need the hammer drilling mode, the drill driver version (DL6293B-10) is even more compact and has a price tag under $100.
Cordless Drill Comparison
Battery Selection
In this test, we wanted to see how these drills performed with the best batteries available without going overboard on the size. It was all about seeing their maximum potential, but that also meant we were testing with batteries other than the ones that normally come in the kits. Here are the batteries we used:
Model | Tested Battery |
---|---|
Bosch GSB18V-1330CN | Core 18V High Power 8.0Ah (144Wh) |
DeWalt DCD1007 | PowerPack 8.0Ah (144Wh) |
Flex FX1271T | Stacked Lithium 6.0Ah (130Wh) |
Hercules HCB92B | Extreme 4.0Ah (72Wh) |
Makita GPH01 | High Power 4.0Ah (144Wh) |
Metabo HPT DV36DC | 2.5Ah (90Wh) |
Milwaukee 2904 | Forge 8.0Ah (144Wh) |
Ridgid R861152 | Max Output EXP 8.0Ah (144Wh) |
Ryobi PBLHM102 | High-Performance Edge 4.0Ah (72Wh) |
Weight
Weight is straightforward but important. The lower the weight, the less fatiguing it is to use the drill, especially on overhead applications. Here are the weights we measured for both the bare tools and with the batteries we tested:
Model | Bare Weight | Weight with Tested Battery |
---|---|---|
Ryobi PBLHM102 | 3.1 lbs | 4.6 lbs |
Hercules HCB92B | 3.3 lbs | 4.8 lbs |
Metabo HPT DV36DC | 3.9 lbs | 5.5 lbs |
Milwaukee 2904 | 3.2 lbs | 5.6 lbs |
Makita GPH01 | 3.7 lbs | 5.8 lbs |
Ridgid R861152 | 3.5 lbs | 5.8 lbs |
Flex FX1271T | 3.7 lbs | 6.0 lbs |
Bosch GSB18V-1330CN | 4.1lbs | 6.3 lbs |
DeWalt DCD1007 | 4.2 lbs | 6.3 lbs |
Length
Lighter weight and a smaller size tend to go hand-in-hand, but it’s not a guarantee. Regardless of the weight, a more compact cordless drill gives you the advantage of working in tighter spaces. Here’s the head length of all the models we tested.
Model | Head Length |
---|---|
Milwaukee 2904 | 7.0 in |
Flex FX1271T | 7.1 in |
Hercules HCB92B | 7.1 in |
Makita GPH01 | 7.1 in |
Ridgid R861152 | 7.2 in |
DeWalt DCD1007 | 7.5 in |
Metabo HPT DV36DC | 7.5 in |
Ryobi PBLHM102 | 7.5 in |
Bosch GSB18V-1330CN | 8.1 in |
Speed and Torque
To get a general idea of a drill’s performance, the speed tells you how fast you can drill while the torque is an indicator of how strong it is. For hammer drills, the hammer rate (or blow rate) tells you how fast the chipping action is while using hammer mode.
Keep in mind that the speed is based on having no load on the tool. Once you start drilling or driving, the motor has to work hard to keep the speed up. Drills with stronger motors and more efficient energy transfer can outperform models with higher specs—which is why we test.
Model | Max Speeds | Hammer Rate | Max Torque |
---|---|---|---|
Bosch GSB18V-1330CN | 550/2200 RPM | 30,000 BPM | 1330 in-lbs |
DeWalt DCD1007 | 450/1300/2000 RPM* | 38,250 BPM | 1530 UWO** |
Flex FX1271T | 700/2500 RPM | 40,000 BPM | 1400 in-lbs |
Hercules HCB92B | 550/2000 RPM | 32,000 BPM | 1200 in-lbs |
Makita GPH01 | 650/2600 RPM | 39,000 BPM | 1250 in-lbs |
Metabo HPT DV36DC | 550/2200 RPM | 33,000 BPM | 1400 in-lbs |
Milwaukee 2904 | 500/2100 RPM | 33,000 BPM | 1400 in-lbs |
Ridgid R861152 | 550/2000 RPM | 32,000 BPM | 1250 in-lbs |
Ryobi PBLHM102 | 700/2150 RPM | 34,400 BPM | 850 in-lbs |
** Note that DeWalt specs the power of their drills in unit watts out rather than in-lbs of torque.
How We Tested and Full Results
Our team has tested so many cordless drills over the years that I’ve lost count. At one point, our shop was filled with 50 drills for an epic head-to-head tool comparison. We nearly lost our video editor over that one, but we also learned a lot that has helped us develop our current methods.
RSS Screwdriving Test
Our first speed test evaluated each drill’s ability to drive a large structural screw. We started by drilling a 1 1/2-inch deep pilot hole into stacked, glued OSB subfloor, feathered an 8-inch x 3/8-inch RSS screw into the pilot hole, and then drove it flush in high gear. Each result is the average of three runs.
Model | Average Speed |
---|---|
Makita GPH01 | 2.03 sec |
Flex FX1271T | 2.22 sec |
DeWalt DCD1007 | 2.42 sec |
Milwaukee 2904 | 2.49 sec |
Metabo HPT DV36DC | 2.70 sec |
Ridgid R861152 | 2.72 sec |
Bosch GSB18V-1330C | 2.88 sec |
Ryobi PBLHM102 | 5.92 sec |
Hercules HCB92B | 7.98 sec |
Spade Bit Test
In this test, we used a 1-inch self-feeding spade bit to bore through 4 inches of stacked and glued OSB subfloor to test the medium-load capacities of each drill. We started the test at high speed. If a drill was unable to complete the test, we dropped it into low gear. The result is an average of three successful runs without a bind-up.
Model | Average Speed |
---|---|
Flex FX1271T | 2.42 sec |
DeWalt DCD1007 | 2.54 sec |
Makita GPH01 | 2.62 sec |
Milwaukee 2904 | 2.62 sec |
Metabo HPT DV36DC | 3.07 sec |
Ridgid R861152 | 3.08 sec |
Ryobi PBLHM102 | 3.08 sec |
Bosch GSB18V-1330CN | 3.29 sec |
Hercules HCB92B | 3.88 sec |
Self-Feed Bit Test
To push the drills into a heavy-load rough-in application, we used a 2 9/16-inch self-feed bit to punch through 2×4 studs. The top performers were able to complete the test in high gear. For any that couldn’t, we dropped down a gear to access more torque and restarted the test. The results are the averages of three successful runs without bind-ups.
Model | Average Speed |
---|---|
Makita GPH01 | 1.59 sec |
DeWalt DCD1007 | 1.73 sec |
Ridgid R861152 | 1.79 sec |
Flex FX1271T | 1.84 sec |
Milwaukee 2904 | 1.89 sec |
Metabo HPT DV36DC | 1.96 sec |
Bosch GSB18V-1330CN | 2.09 sec |
Ryobi PBLHM102 | 4.26 sec |
Hercules HCB92B | 5.50 sec |
Concrete Bit Test
The final test we ran involved drilling a 3/8-inch concrete bit 3 inches deep into cured 4000 PSI concrete in high gear. We used the hammer drilling mode for each drill. The result is an average of three successful runs without a bind-up.
Model | Average Speed |
---|---|
Flex FX1271T | 5.66 sec |
DeWalt DCD1007 | 6.39 sec |
Ryobi PBLHM102 | 6.74 sec |
Milwaukee 2904 | 6.84 sec |
Metabo HPT DV36DC | 7.28 sec |
Makita GPH01 | 7.56 sec |
Ridgid R861152 | 7.71 sec |
Bosch GSB18V-1330CN | 8.94 sec |
Hercules HCB92B | 9.52 sec |
Best Cordless Drill Brands Based on User Type
Cordless drills are one of the most fundamental tools you can own, and it’s no surprise that there are a dizzying number of brands in the space. The good news is that there are a lot of trustworthy names. The bad news is that it can be difficult to tell which one you should buy if you’re new to the industry. Not to worry—we’ve got your back!
We recommend each of the brands listed below, and we’ve broken them up into four classes to help you have more confidence in your selections.
Professional
- Bosch
- DeWalt
- Festool
- Flex
- Hilti
- Ingersoll Rand
- Makita
- Metabo
- Metabo HPT
- Milwaukee
Entry-Level Professional
- Kobalt
- Ridgid
Prosumer/Serious DIY
- Craftsman
- Masterforce
- Ryobi
- Skil
DIY
- Black and Decker
- Greenworks
- HART
- Worx
Think you know everything? Our How to Use a Drill article might still manage to show you a thing or two.
What to Look for When You’re Buying a Cordless Drill
Performance: Speed, blow rate, and torque give you an idea of how fast and strong a drill or hammer drill will perform. They’re helpful stats when you’re comparing data during research, but it’s the motor’s ability to keep the RPMs high under load that separates their real-world performance. Look for a drill with a brushless motor to get the best performance, runtime, and service life.
Size and Weight: Size and weight tend to go hand-in-hand, with larger drills weighing more. Ideally, we want the lightest and most compact tool that still does the job effectively. That keeps the fatigue to a minimum while maximizing access.
Ergonomics: Beyond the size and weight, how the weight is balanced and how the grip feels in your hand brings ergonomics full circle. As you narrow down your choices, there’s something to be said for a tool that feels right in your hands.
Features: As you move up from entry-level cordless drills, you should expect additional features that make working more convenient in addition to higher performance. Here’s what we expect to find on every Pro-grade hammer drill:
- 2-Speed Gearbox: The ability to work at high speed or drop down for more torque is essential
- Side Handle: Absolutely necessary on drills with higher torque
- All-Metal Keyless Chuck: Better durability and faster bit changes
- LED Light: Adds light where you’re drilling and driving
- Belt Hook: Usually reversible, they’re super-helpful when you have materials to carry or you’re climbing a ladder
Special Features
Some drills add features that go beyond the basics to make the job easier, safer, or make your drill more versatile. Here are the special features that showed up in our test group:
Kickback Control: Stops the motor when the tool senses a bind up to reduce the risk of wrist, elbow, and shoulder injuries.
- Bosch GSB18V-1330CN
- DeWalt DCD1007
- Flex FX1271T
- Makita GPH01
- Metabo HPT DV36DC
- Milwaukee 2904
- Ridgid R861152
Smart Technology: Helps with inventory management and tracking, and some offer customizable controls.
- Bosch Bosch GSB18V-1330CN (requires a separate Connected Module)
- DeWalt (requires a separate ToolConnect Tag)
- Milwaukee 2906 (One-Key version of the 2904)
Electronic Clutch Settings: Electronically controls how much torque is delivered rather than relying on a mechanical device.
- Makita GPH01
Leveling Indicator: Helps ensure you’re drilling straight into your material.
- Bosch GSB18V-1330CN
LED Controls: Can include turning the light on or off, selecting how long the light stays on, and the light intensity. Some models have an extended function that lets you use the drill as a work light.
- DeWalt DCD1007
Additional Gears: By having three or more gears, you’re better able to find the right balance of power and speed.
- DeWalt DCD1007 (three gears)
Turbo Mode: Kicks the drill into a higher performance mode for greater speed and power when you’re not concerned about conserving runtime.
- DeWalt DCD1007 (increases speed and hammer rate in hammer drilling mode)
- Flex FX1271T
AC Adapter Compatibility: Yes, it defeats the purpose of having a cordless power source, but having the ability to use an AC adapter can get you out of a pinch if your batteries are spent.
- Metabo HPT DV36DC (requires a separate AC adapter)
Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews
Pro Tool Reviews has tested and evaluated cordless power tools since 2008. We understand the key features to look for — including the differences that affect users in the field. We’ve been around to see advances in brushless motor development, the injury reduction of kickback control, and how smart connectivity is changing the way Pros work.
In short, you can trust Pro Tool Reviews because tools are what we do. When I recommend a drill for you, it’s because it’s the one I would buy. My primary motivation is to recommend what I genuinely believe is the best in each category based on more than a decade of experience and being involved in the power tool industry every day. If you choose to buy something I recommend, my hope is that it works exactly the way you expect on your next project.