Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Bosch PS31-2A 12V Max 3/8-Inch Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
Best Budget 12VMilwaukee M12 FUEL 3403-22 12V 1/2-Inch Drill/Driver Kit
Best Overall 12VPrice
$99-$156
$170-$200
Summary
CNET's top pick for 12V drills and a consistent expert favorite. Explosive performance in a small package — it topped performance scores across the board while staying under $100.
Pro-grade power in a shockingly compact 12V body. At 400 inch-pounds of torque, it matches many 18V drills while staying under 6 inches long — a beast in disguise.
Pros
- Topped CNET's 12V performance scores across all tests
- Includes two 2.0 Ah batteries — largest capacity in the 12V category
- 21-stage clutch with sensitive screw-seating depth control
- Side-mounted battery gauge shows remaining charge
- Exceptional run time, often outperforming 18V drills
- 400 inch-pound torque rivals many 18V drills
- Only 5.95 inches long — fits in tight spaces other drills can't reach
- Kit includes both 2.0 Ah and 4.0 Ah batteries for double run time
- LED worklight, metal belt clip, and fuel gauge included
- 12 clutch settings and 1,550 RPM max speed
Cons
- Stalls with large drill bits
- 3/8-inch chuck limits use with larger bits
- Second most expensive in the 12V brushed category
- Battery can be tricky to remove until you get the hang of it
- Slightly heavy at 2.5 lbs for a 12V drill
- Handle may be too large for smaller hands
- Speed selector is stiff
- Pricier than most 12V options at ~$180
Our take
The Bosch PS31 is the rare budget pick that doesn't feel like a compromise. Two 2.0 Ah batteries, a 21-stage clutch, and battery life that routinely outlasts 18V competitors — it's the smart buy for most homeowners.
This is the 12V drill to buy if you want one tool that handles everything. The Spruce used it for two years of real home projects without a single issue — that's the kind of track record that earns a top spot.
Buy
