Cordless drills are an essential tool for DIYers, professionals, and homeowners. Whether you’re building furniture, installing shelves, or working on construction projects, having the best cordless drill can make a world of difference. In 2025, the competition among power tools is tougher than ever, and we’ve tested the top models to bring you the best cordless drills based on power, performance, durability, and overall value.
After extensive hands-on testing, here are our Top 5 Best Cordless Drills of 2025:
| Drill Model | Voltage | Motor Type | Max RPM | Torque (in-lbs) | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch 18V Compact Brushless Drill | 18V | Brushless | 1,800 | 600 | DIYers, Homeowners, Light Professional Use | Check Price |
| Kobalt XTR Keyless Brushless Cordless Drill | 24V | Brushless | 2,000 | 1,200 | DIYers, Home Renovation Projects | Check Price |
| Craftsman V20 1/2″ Brushed Cordless Drill | 20V | Brushed | 1,500 | 280 | Budget Buyers, Beginners, Home Use | Check Price |
| Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2″ Drill Driver | 18V | Brushless | 2,000 | 1,200 | Professionals, Heavy-Duty Users | Check Price |
| Dewalt FLEXVOLT Cordless Hammer Drill | 60V | Brushless | 2,250 | 1,250 | Contractors, Masonry, Concrete Work | Check Price |
Now, let’s dive into the detailed reviews of each drill and find out which one suits your needs best.
1. Bosch 18V Compact Brushless Drill – Best for Versatility
Key Features:
- Voltage: 18V
- Motor Type: Brushless
- Max RPM: 1,800
- Torque: 600 in-lbs
- Weight: 2.4 lbs (without battery)
Why We Picked It:
The Bosch 18V Compact Brushless Drill is perfect for those who need a lightweight yet powerful drill. It delivers impressive torque and speed, making it ideal for both drilling and driving screws. The brushless motor increases efficiency, extends battery life, and reduces heat buildup.
Pros:
✅ Compact and lightweight design
✅ Brushless motor for longer life
✅ 20+1 clutch settings for precision
✅ Ergonomic grip for comfortable use
Cons:
❌ No hammer function
❌ Not ideal for heavy-duty projects
Best For: Homeowners, DIYers, and light professional work.
2. Kobalt XTR Keyless Brushless Cordless Drill – Best for DIYers
Key Features:
- Voltage: 24V
- Motor Type: Brushless
- Max RPM: 2,000
- Torque: 1,200 in-lbs
- Weight: 3.7 lbs
Why We Picked It:
If you’re a DIY enthusiast looking for power, precision, and ease of use, the Kobalt XTR Keyless Brushless Drill is a great choice. With a 24V battery system, it delivers more power than most competitors in its class. The keyless chuck makes bit changes quick and effortless.
Pros:
✅ High torque output for tough tasks
✅ Keyless chuck for easy bit changes
✅ Longer battery life with 24V power
✅ LED light for better visibility
Cons:
❌ Slightly heavier than competitors
❌ Not the best for professional-grade work
Best For: DIYers and home improvement projects.
3. Craftsman V20 1/2″ Brushed Cordless Drill – Best Budget Option
Key Features:
- Voltage: 20V
- Motor Type: Brushed
- Max RPM: 1,500
- Torque: 280 in-lbs
- Weight: 3.2 lbs
Why We Picked It:
The Craftsman V20 Cordless Drill is an affordable and reliable option for homeowners and beginners. While it features a brushed motor, it still delivers decent power for everyday drilling and screwing tasks.
Pros:
✅ Affordable and budget-friendly
✅ Ergonomic design for easy handling
✅ Decent battery life for home use
✅ Includes a carrying case and battery
Cons:
❌ Lower torque than premium models
❌ Brushed motor wears out faster than brushless
Best For: Beginners and those on a budget.
4. Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2″ Drill Driver – Best for Professionals
Key Features:
- Voltage: 18V
- Motor Type: Brushless
- Max RPM: 2,000
- Torque: 1,200 in-lbs
- Weight: 4.5 lbs
Why We Picked It:
Milwaukee is a trusted brand in the power tool industry, and the M18 Fuel 1/2″ Drill Driver is designed for professionals who demand maximum performance and durability. It has a POWERSTATE™ brushless motor, which ensures long-lasting power and better efficiency.
Pros:
✅ High torque for tough drilling applications
✅ Durable and rugged construction
✅ Long battery life with M18 REDLITHIUM™ technology
✅ Metal ratcheting chuck for a secure grip
Cons:
❌ Heavier than most competitors
❌ Premium price tag
Best For: Contractors, mechanics, and heavy-duty users.
5. Dewalt FLEXVOLT Cordless Hammer Drill – Best for Heavy-Duty Work
Key Features:
- Voltage: 60V (FLEXVOLT)
- Motor Type: Brushless
- Max RPM: 2,250
- Torque: 1,250 in-lbs
- Weight: 5.4 lbs
Why We Picked It:
If you need maximum power for concrete, masonry, and metal drilling, the Dewalt FLEXVOLT Cordless Hammer Drill is the ultimate choice. It runs on a 60V FLEXVOLT battery, giving it insane power compared to traditional 18V or 20V drills.
Pros:
✅ Extreme power for heavy-duty tasks
✅ Hammer drill function for masonry work
✅ Variable speed settings for precision
✅ Rugged build quality
Cons:
❌ Bulky and heavy
❌ Expensive
Best For: Professionals and contractors working on demanding projects.
Final Verdict: Which Cordless Drill Should You Buy?
Choosing the best cordless drill depends on your needs, budget, and project requirements. Here’s a quick summary:
- Best Overall: Bosch 18V Compact Brushless Drill (Lightweight, versatile, and efficient)
- Best for DIYers: Kobalt XTR Keyless Brushless Drill (Powerful, easy to use, great for home projects)
- Best Budget Pick: Craftsman V20 Cordless Drill (Affordable, beginner-friendly)
- Best for Professionals: Milwaukee M18 Fuel Drill Driver (Rugged, powerful, long-lasting)
- Best Heavy-Duty Drill: Dewalt FLEXVOLT Hammer Drill (Extreme power for concrete and masonry)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which cordless drill brand is the best?
Milwaukee, Dewalt, and Bosch are known for their high-quality cordless drills with durable motors and long battery life.
2. What is the difference between brushed and brushless drills?
Brushless drills are more efficient, last longer, and produce less heat compared to brushed drills, which require more maintenance.
3. How long do cordless drill batteries last?
Most cordless drill batteries last 2-5 years, depending on usage and charging habits.
4. Is an 18V drill powerful enough for heavy-duty work?
Yes, but for extreme heavy-duty work (like concrete drilling), a 60V FLEXVOLT drill is recommended.
5. Can I use any brand battery with my drill?
No, each brand uses its own battery system, so you need compatible batteries for your drill.
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