Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Hercules 20V Brushless Cordless Drill/Driver Kit (Harbor Freight)
Best Budget BrushlessRyobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Drill/Driver
Best Value BrushlessPrice
$60-$90
$129-$160
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.
Ryobi's brushless 18V drill delivers genuine performance at a fraction of Milwaukee or DeWalt prices. The ONE+ battery platform powers 300+ tools, making it the smartest entry point for building a cordless tool collection.
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
- Brushless HP motor for better runtime and durability than older Ryobi brushed models
- ONE+ battery platform compatible with 300+ Ryobi tools including outdoor equipment
- Lightweight ergonomic design minimizes arm fatigue per Good Housekeeping testers
- 2,100 RPM max speed and 750 in-lbs torque competitive with pricier brands
- Backed by Home Depot's 3-year warranty
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
- Not suited for the toughest tasks like boring holes in concrete or dense hardwoods
- Build quality and durability below Milwaukee and DeWalt for professional use
- Battery platform not compatible with other brands if you switch ecosystems
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.
Ryobi gets unfairly dismissed by tool snobs, but the brushless HP line is legitimately good. For a homeowner who doesn't need to drill concrete all day, this drill will handle everything you throw at it — and the battery ecosystem is unmatched for the price.
Buy
