Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Black & Decker BDCDD12C 12V Max Compact Drill/Driver
Most Compact 12VSkil PWR CORE 12 Brushless 12V 1/2-Inch Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
Best for Light-Duty UsePrice
$45-$60
$65-$80
Summary
The tightest side clearance of any drill CNET has tested at 1-18/64 inches — ideal for cramped cabinets and awkward angles. Lowest price on the list at $50.
Five minutes on the charger gets you 30 minutes of drilling — basically always ready to go. A brushless motor at a budget price makes this the smartest buy for renters and occasional DIYers.
Pros
- Tightest side clearance (1-18/64 inches) of any drill CNET tested
- Lowest price in the 12V category at ~$50
- Keyless chuck for fast, easy bit changes
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver in confined spaces
- 550 RPM max speed adequate for light-duty tasks
- Brushless motor for better efficiency and longevity at a budget price
- Ultra-fast charging: 5 minutes = 30 minutes of use
- 18 clutch settings for precise screw depth control
- Built-in LED light and belt clip included
- 1,700 RPM max speed — fastest in the 12V budget category
Cons
- Only includes one 1.5 Ah battery — no spare
- No carrying case included
- Midlevel overall performance — not for heavy tasks
- Less torque and power than Bosch or Milwaukee 12V options
- Only one battery included — no spare
- Stalls when drilling larger holes
- No carrying bag or case
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks like concrete or dense hardwood
Our take
If you're drilling in tight spaces and don't need heavy-duty power, this is the one. It's not the most powerful 12V drill, but nothing else gets into corners like it does, and the price is hard to argue with.
The Skil PWR CORE 12 punches above its price class with a brushless motor that most competitors at this price don't offer. If you're hanging shelves and assembling furniture rather than boring through concrete, this is all you need.
Buy
