From budget combo kits to brushless powerhouses, these are the cordless drill sets that earned their spot on our bench this year.
A cordless drill is the first power tool most people buy — and the one they use the most. The good news: today's brushless drills deliver real torque and battery life that older corded drills can't match. The decision is less about the drill itself and more about which battery ecosystem you want to commit to, because that choice will shape every cordless tool you buy next.
We tested drill/driver kits across the major platforms, driving lag screws, boring holes in hardwood, and timing runtime on a single charge. Here are the sets worth buying.
| Set | Best for | Motor | Battery | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCD800 Combo | Best overall | Brushless | 20V MAX | Drill + impact + 2 batt |
| Makita XFD131 | Best ergonomics | Brushless | 18V LXT | Drill + 2 batt |
| Milwaukee 2904 (M18 FUEL) | Most power | Brushless | M18 | Drill + 2 batt |
| Ryobi PCL206 Combo | Best budget combo | Brushless | ONE+ 18V | Drill + impact + 2 batt |
| Bosch GSR18V-535 | Best compact | Brushless | 18V | Drill + 2 batt |
The sweet spot of power, value, and ecosystem. The brushless DCD800 drill has plenty of torque for everything a homeowner or remodeler throws at it, and pairing it with DeWalt's impact driver covers fasteners far better than a drill alone. The 20V MAX platform has one of the widest tool lineups going.
Who it's for: Anyone starting a cordless collection who wants room to grow.
Makita's LXT drills have the best balance and grip we've handled — you feel it after an hour overhead. Smooth power delivery and a top-tier battery platform make this an easy recommendation, especially for trades that drill all day.
Who it's for: Pros and serious DIYers who value all-day comfort.
If you want the most muscle, the M18 FUEL hammer drill brings it — boring big holes and driving lags without flinching. It's heavier and pricier, but the M18 platform and this drill's raw output are hard to beat.
Who it's for: Heavy-duty users who occasionally drill masonry.
The most tool for the least money. You get a brushless drill, an impact driver, and two batteries on the enormous ONE+ platform — which shares batteries across 280+ tools. Performance won't match the pro kits, but for home use it's tremendous value.
Who it's for: Homeowners who want maximum value and a huge tool range.
Short head length and light weight make this Bosch a joy in cabinets, electrical boxes, and other tight spots — without giving up meaningful power. A great second drill or a primary for finer work.
Who it's for: Finish carpenters and anyone working in tight spaces.
The DeWalt DCD800 combo is the best starting point for most people — strong performance, a drill and impact in one box, and an ecosystem you won't outgrow. Want maximum value? The Ryobi combo is unbeatable for the money.
Check today's price →Your batteries fit one brand's platform. Choosing DeWalt 20V MAX, Makita LXT, Milwaukee M18, or Ryobi ONE+ now means cheaper expansion later, since you buy future tools bare (no battery). Choose the platform with the tools you'll want.
Brushless motors run cooler, last longer, and squeeze more work from each charge. At today's prices, brushless is worth it for all but the lightest occasional use.
A drill bores holes and drives small fasteners; an impact driver drives long screws and lags far more easily. If you build decks, fences, or furniture, a combo kit with both is the smarter buy.
Higher amp-hour batteries run longer but weigh more. A 2.0Ah is light for everyday tasks; a 4.0–5.0Ah is better for sustained or heavy work.
Prices and availability change frequently — always confirm the current price and what's in the box before buying.
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