The Best Cordless Drills of 2025: Power, Performance & Value Compared
The cordless drill is the undisputed cornerstone of every modern toolbox. It’s the first power tool most of us buy and the one we reach for the most. But with a sea of options boasting different voltages, battery sizes, and motor types, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in.
As a team of dedicated builders and DIYers, we’ve spent years—and hundreds of project hours—putting these tools to the test. We don’t just read spec sheets; we drive lag bolts, drill through hardwood with hole saws, and work until the batteries die. This guide is the result of that obsessive, hands-on testing, designed to help you find the perfect cordless drill for your needs and budget.
Our Top Picks for 2025 at a Glance
| Image | Model | Category | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
DeWALT 20V MAX XR POWERDETECT™ | 🏆 Best Overall | Professionals & Serious DIYers |
 |
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2″ | 💪 Best for Heavy-Duty | Maximum Power Demands |
 |
Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless | 💰 Best Value | Homeowners & DIY Projects |
 |
Bosch 18V EC Brushless Compact | 👌 Best Compact | Ergonomics & Tight Spaces |
In-Depth Cordless Drill Reviews
Best Overall: DeWALT 20V MAX XR POWERDETECT™
In our testing, the DeWALT DCD998 consistently hit the sweet spot of power, ergonomics, and intelligent features. The POWERDETECT™ technology is a game-changer, adjusting the tool’s output based on the battery it’s paired with, giving you a noticeable power boost with high-capacity packs. It’s incredibly well-balanced, feels great in the hand, and has the raw power to tackle any job a serious DIYer or professional contractor will throw at it.
Key Specs:
| Voltage: | 20V MAX |
| Max Power: | 820 UWO (Unit Watts Out) |
| Motor: | Brushless |
| Weight: | 3.5 lbs (Tool Only) |
- Excellent power-to-weight ratio
- POWERDETECT™ tech maximizes output
- Durable all-metal construction
- Great ergonomics and balance
- Premium price point
- Can be overkill for simple tasks
Best for Heavy-Duty: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2″ Drill/Driver
When our tests called for maximum, uncompromising power, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL (2804-20) was the undisputed king. It boasts a staggering 1,200 in-lbs of torque, allowing it to blast through materials with hole saws and auger bits that would stall lesser drills. This is the tool for professionals who need to drive large fasteners or drill large-diameter holes all day long. Its POWERSTATE™ brushless motor is built for the toughest job sites.
Key Specs:
| Voltage: | 18V |
| Max Torque: | 1,200 in-lbs |
| Motor: | Brushless |
| Weight: | 3.2 lbs (Tool Only) |
- Class-leading torque and power
- Extremely durable and jobsite-ready
- Advanced REDLINK PLUS™ intelligence
- Part of the huge M18 battery system
- Heavier than some competitors
- Power can be too much for delicate tasks
Best Value: Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless
For homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, it’s impossible to beat the value proposition of the Ryobi ONE+ HP line. This brushless drill delivers performance that comes surprisingly close to the premium brands but at a fraction of the cost. It has more than enough power for 95% of household tasks, feels solid, and gives you access to the ONE+ battery system—the largest single platform of compatible tools on the market. It’s the smartest choice for anyone who isn’t using their drill to make a living.
Key Specs:
| Voltage: | 18V |
| Max Torque: | 750 in-lbs |
| Motor: | Brushless |
| Weight: | 2.6 lbs (Tool Only) |
- Incredible performance for the price
- Lightweight and comfortable to use
- Access to over 260+ ONE+ tools
- Frequently available in affordable combo kits
- Not as durable as pro-grade models
- Chuck is good, but not all-metal
Best Compact: Bosch 18V EC Brushless Compact
Sometimes, the best drill isn’t the most powerful, but the one that can fit into tight spaces. The Bosch compact drill excels here. It has a remarkably short head length, allowing you to get between studs or inside cabinets with ease. What’s more, you don’t sacrifice features for size. It includes Bosch’s advanced KickBack Control for safety and has a refined, comfortable grip that makes it a joy to use for extended periods. It’s the perfect choice for electricians, installers, or any DIYer who values precision and ergonomics.
Key Specs:
| Voltage: | 18V |
| Max Torque: | 535 in-lbs |
| Motor: | Brushless |
| Weight: | 2.5 lbs (Tool Only) |
- Outstanding ergonomics and balance
- Advanced KickBack Control safety feature
- Very compact and lightweight design
- Durable all-metal chuck
- Less torque than larger models
- Priced as a premium tool
The Ultimate Cordless Drill Buying Guide
Getting Started With Your New Drill
Once you’ve made your choice, the real fun begins. A cordless drill is the gateway to a world of DIY projects and home repairs. To get started on the right foot and understand the basic functions, from the clutch to the chuck, check out our beginner-friendly guide on how to use a drill machine for home improvement.
The standard drill/driver reviewed here is the most common type, but it’s just one of many options. For more specialized tasks, it helps to explore our article explaining the different what are the types of drill machines, from heavy-duty hammer drills to precision drill presses.
Finally, you’ll be amazed at the versatility of your new tool. For creative ideas and practical applications, read our post on the many what are the uses of a drill machine, which go far beyond just making holes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a brushless motor really worth the extra cost?
Yes, absolutely. A brushless motor provides longer runtime per battery charge, delivers more power under load, and has a significantly longer tool lifespan because there are no brushes to wear out. For anyone using their drill more than a few times a year, it’s the best investment you can make.
What’s the difference between 18V and 20V MAX tools?
Functionally, there is no difference. It’s primarily a marketing term. Both 18V and 20V MAX battery packs operate at a nominal 18 volts. The “20V MAX” refers to the maximum initial voltage of a fully charged battery pack under no load, which is 20 volts. They are the same platform.
Do I need a hammer drill?
If you plan on drilling into masonry like brick, concrete, or block, you need a drill with a hammer function. A hammer drill adds a rapid, percussive action to the rotation, which pulverizes the material and allows the bit to move forward. For just wood, metal, and plastic, a standard drill/driver is sufficient.
