Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Hercules 20V Brushless Cordless Drill/Driver Kit (Harbor Freight)
Best Budget BrushlessMilwaukee M12 FUEL 12V Brushless Drill/Driver
Best Compact BrushlessPrice
$60-$90
$180-$220
Summary
Consumer Reports named this Harbor Freight brushless drill the top-rated cordless drill in their 2025 issue — a stunning result for a budget tool. It delivers brushless performance at a price that undercuts every major brand.
Don't let the 12V rating fool you — the M12 FUEL punches like an 18V drill in a package half the size. The Spruce called it 'a beast in disguise' after two years of real-world use.
Pros
- Rated #1 cordless drill by Consumer Reports in their Nov/Dec 2025 issue
- Brushless motor for better efficiency and longer tool life than brushed budget drills
- Significantly cheaper than Milwaukee, DeWalt, or Makita brushless options
- Includes side handle for added control on demanding tasks
- 2Ah battery and charger included in kit
- 400 in-lbs torque matches many heavier 18V drills
- Only 5.95 inches long — fits in the tightest spaces
- Brushless motor with exceptional battery life per The Spruce's 2-year test
- Includes 2.0Ah and 4.0Ah batteries in the kit for flexible runtime
- LED worklight, metal belt clip, and fuel gauge included
Cons
- Harbor Freight brand lacks the long-term reputation of Milwaukee or DeWalt
- Battery ecosystem limited compared to major brands with 300+ compatible tools
- Less widely available — requires Harbor Freight store or website purchase
- Long-term durability data less established than established brands
- Handle may feel too large for users with smaller hands
- Stiff speed selector switch reported by testers
- Lags slightly when drilling holes deeper than 1.5 inches with spade bits
- More expensive than comparable 12V brushed options
Our take
This is the sleeper pick nobody expects. Consumer Reports doesn't hand out top ratings lightly, and the fact that this beat Milwaukee and DeWalt in their testing is genuinely remarkable. If you're budget-conscious and don't need brand prestige, this is the smartest buy on the list.
This is the drill I'd recommend to anyone who works in tight spaces or hates arm fatigue. At 2.5 lbs with 400 in-lbs of torque, it matches many 18V drills on performance while being dramatically easier to handle all day.
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