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.
Over the past two years, we've used it to hang a wall mirror, replace a bathroom fan, install new shades, fix a sofa with a bracket, assemble a bed frame, and more, all without any issues.
The 1/2-inch chuck provides a maximum of 400-inch pounds of torque, which is in line with many much heavier 18-volt drills.
As a contractor and tradesman over the last 40 years I started with the Makita 9.6 volt stuff then moved to DeWalt and finally ended up with Milwaukee about 15 years ago... I currently own about 50 Milwaukee M18 and M12 tools and couldn't be happier.
Milwaukee 12V is more compact.
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.
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.
A modular 5-in-1 system that swaps between drill, driver, right-angle, offset, and flex-shaft heads, the only 12V tool that adapts to virtually any awkward angle or confined space.