rabbit.reviews

The Best Cordless Drills

Updated April 2026·Experts: nytimes, CNET, The Spruce

Best Overall

Ryobi 18V HP Brushless Drill

$100-$160
$100-$160 at Amazon→

Reddit is nearly unanimous on this: for homeowners, Ryobi brushless is the answer. The Ryobi Days sale makes it even harder to argue against.

What holds up

  • Brushless motor lasts longer and delivers better performance than brushed models
  • Compatible with Ryobi's massive ONE+ 18V battery ecosystem
  • Excellent bang-for-buck value for home use
  • Frequently goes on sale during Ryobi Days events with free battery deals

What to know

  • Not ideal for heavy professional or jobsite use
  • Battery platform less premium than Milwaukee or DeWalt
  • Brushless models cost more upfront than brushed versions
What people say
For home use I think Ryobi has the best bang for buck system.
Reddit user
Get it for $100-$160
Read the full breakdown →
Best Professional Grade

Milwaukee 2903-22 18V Brushless Drill

$200-$280
$200-$280 at Amazon→

If you're doing serious work or plan to build out a full tool ecosystem, Milwaukee is where you want to land. It costs more, but you'll never outgrow it.

What holds up

  • Professional-grade brushless motor for demanding tasks
  • Part of Milwaukee's extensive M18 battery platform
  • Highly regarded by both pros and serious DIYers
  • Strong long-term durability and reliability reputation

What to know

  • Significantly more expensive than homeowner-grade options
  • Overkill for light around-the-house tasks
  • M18 batteries are pricier to expand
What people say
If you need a bigger drill for demanding tasks: The 18-volt drills we recommend are considered 'compact,' but we also test the larger professional class of tools, like the Milwaukee 2903-22 18-Volt Brushless Drill/Driver.
Wirecutter
Get it for $200-$280
Read the full breakdown →
Best Compact

DeWalt 12V Max Cordless Drill

$100-$150
$100-$150 at Amazon→

If you hate heavy tools and mostly hang pictures, assemble furniture, or do light repairs, this 12V DeWalt punches well above its size and weight.

What holds up

  • Extremely compact and lightweight for easy one-handed use
  • Impressive battery life, 30 holes and 100+ screws per charge in Wirecutter testing
  • Wirecutter's top pick for common household projects
  • DeWalt's reputation for build quality and reliability

What to know

  • 12V limits power for heavy-duty drilling into masonry or thick lumber
  • Smaller battery platform than 20V DeWalt lineup
  • Comes with only one battery in some kit configurations
What people say
The DeWalt 12-volt was able to drill 30 1-inch holes into a 2-by-10 on a single battery charge, and it could sink over 100 3-inch drywall screws into a doubled-up 2-by-10.
Wirecutter
Get it for $100-$150
Read the full breakdown →
Best Budget

Bauer 20V Cordless Drill (Harbor Freight)

$40-$80
$40-$80 at Amazon→

If you're drilling a few holes a year and can't justify $130+, Bauer is the honest answer. It won't last forever, but it'll last long enough for most people.

What holds up

  • Significantly cheaper than name-brand alternatives
  • Widely recommended on Reddit for light homeowner use
  • Available at Harbor Freight with frequent coupon discounts
  • Adequate power for basic drilling and driving tasks

What to know

  • Smaller battery ecosystem than major brands
  • Build quality and longevity lag behind Ryobi and above
  • Limited availability outside Harbor Freight stores
What people say
I would suggest either Bauer, or Ryobi for a homeowner use. I haven't used either brand much, but I hear Bauer from Harbor freight is roughly equivalent.
Reddit user
Get it for $40-$80
Read the full breakdown →
Best Ecosystem Investment

Makita 18V LXT Brushless Drill

$150-$250
$150-$250 at Amazon→

If you're thinking beyond just a drill and want to build a tool ecosystem that'll serve you for decades, Makita's LXT is the platform serious tool people swear by.

What holds up

  • Part of Makita's massive LXT 18V battery ecosystem with 200+ compatible tools
  • Brushless motor delivers excellent power and runtime
  • Highly regarded by professionals and advanced DIYers
  • Strong build quality and long-term durability

What to know

  • Premium price point similar to Milwaukee and DeWalt
  • Overkill for casual homeowners
  • LXT batteries are expensive to start collecting
What people say
Makita, Strong cordless lineup, popular for both professionals and DIYers.
Reddit user
Get it for $150-$250
Read the full breakdown →