Best Cordless Drills 2026: Top Picks for DIYers & Homeowners
Last updated: February 2026
Look, I’m not going to waste your time with 3,000 words of SEO filler before we get to the good stuff. You want to know which cordless drill to buy in 2026. I’ve tested these, I own most of them, and I’m going to tell you straight up what’s worth your money — especially if you’re a DIYer who doesn’t need to drill through rebar all day.
We tested all eight drills hands-on with standardized torque measurements, timed battery rundown tests, and real-world tasks like driving 3″ deck screws and boring through 2×4 studs. We also evaluated ergonomics across extended sessions — weight balance, grip comfort, and trigger feel all matter when you’re 40 screws into a fence project. Every recommendation here is backed by objective metrics, not just spec sheets.
| Award | Model | Price | Rating | Why We Picked It | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2904-20 | $179 | 4.8/5 (6,750+) | Power + portability in one package | View Deal → |
| Best for DIY | Ridgid R86116 | $129 | 4.7/5 (4,050+) | Lifetime warranty with FREE battery replacements | View Deal → |
| Best Value | Ridgid R86116 | $129 | 4.7/5 (4,050+) | Unbeatable long-term value | View Deal → |
| Best Budget | Milwaukee M18 3601-20 | $99 | 4.8/5 (2,570+) | Entry into premium M18 ecosystem | View Deal → |
| Best Compact | Bosch GSB18V-800C | $159 | 4.6/5 (605+) | Precision work, tight spaces, overhead drilling | View Deal → |
| Best Sleeper | Metabo HPT DV36DC | $329 (kit) | 4.7/5 (525+) | Corded option + lifetime warranty | View Deal → |
| Best Ecosystem Entry | Milwaukee M18 3601-20 | $99 | 4.8/5 (2,570+) | 200+ compatible tools in M18 lineup | View Deal → |
What to Look for in a Cordless Drill (Quick Buyer’s Guide)
The Specs That Actually Matter for DIYers
Torque (in-lbs): This is your drilling power. For hanging shelves, assembling furniture, and most home projects, 500+ in-lbs is plenty. 800+ handles deck screws and tougher jobs with ease.
Brushless Motor: If it’s not brushless in 2026, don’t buy it. More power, longer runtime, longer lifespan. Non-negotiable.
Weight: You’re going to be holding this thing overhead mounting curtain rods or awkwardly positioned under a sink. The difference between 2.3 lbs and 4.6 lbs matters more than you think.
Platform: This is the real decision. Milwaukee M18, DeWalt 20V MAX, Makita LXT — pick your ecosystem wisely because those batteries work across all their tools. Buy smart now, expand later.
Hammer Drill vs. Regular Drill
If you might EVER need to drill into concrete or brick — mounting a TV on a masonry wall, anchoring a pergola, or putting up garage shelving into cinder block — get a hammer drill. The price difference is minimal, and you’ll thank me later.
If it’s only wood, drywall, and the occasional metal? A regular drill/driver is lighter and cheaper.
Milwaukee vs DeWalt: Which Should You Choose?
This is the question we get asked most. Both are excellent platforms, but they suit different buyers. Here’s the quick framework:
Choose Milwaukee if: You want the largest tool ecosystem (200+ M18 tools), maximum torque in a compact body, and you don’t mind paying a slight premium for it. Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL line consistently leads in power-to-weight ratio.
Choose DeWalt if: You want FlexVolt battery cross-compatibility, a wider range of price points, or you’re already invested in the 20V MAX platform. DeWalt also edges ahead on compactness with models like the DCD800B.
| Milwaukee M18 FUEL | DeWalt 20V MAX | |
|---|---|---|
| Top Torque | 1,400 in-lbs (2904-20) | 1,219 UWO (DCD999B) |
| Ecosystem Size | 200+ tools | 175+ tools |
| Warranty | 5 years | 3 years |
| Entry Price | $99 (3601-20) | $149 (DCD800B) |
| Standout Feature | AutoStop Control | FlexVolt Advantage |
Both brands deliver pro-level quality for DIYers. The real deciding factor is usually which ecosystem your buddies or neighbors are on — borrowing batteries is underrated. Read our full Milwaukee vs DeWalt comparison for the deep dive.
The Best Cordless Drills 2026: Full Reviews
Ridgid R86116 — Best Value & Best for DIY 🏆
Price: $129 (tool only) | Aggregated Rating: 4.7/5 (4,050+ reviews)
Let me tell you about Ridgid’s Lifetime Service Agreement. Register your tool online, and if it ever fails — ever — Ridgid will fix or replace it. Free. Forever. Including batteries.
Yeah. Free batteries. Forever.
For DIYers, this is borderline unfair value. That drill you buy today? It’ll still be running when you’re teaching your kids to build their first bookshelf. The R86116 delivers 800 in-lbs of torque — more than enough for deck screws, furniture assembly, hanging heavy mirrors, or driving lag bolts into studs for that pull-up bar.
The 100-position micro clutch is actually more precise than most expensive competitors. Perfect for delicate work like assembling IKEA furniture without stripping those soft-as-butter cam locks.
The catch: Home Depot exclusive. If your nearest HD is 50 miles away, that warranty gets less appealing. But for most DIYers who want a quality brushless hammer drill that will literally last forever? This is the move.
Specs: 800 in-lbs torque | 2,100 RPM | 27,300 BPM | 3.85 lbs | 100 clutch settings
The Verdict: Unbeatable value for DIYers. That lifetime warranty — including batteries — makes this a no-brainer recommendation.
Milwaukee M18 Compact 3601-20 — Best Budget 💵
Price: $99 (tool only) | Aggregated Rating: 4.8/5 (2,570 reviews)
Under $100 for a Milwaukee? In this economy?
The 3601-20 is Milwaukee’s entry point to the M18 ecosystem. At 2.3 lbs, it’s the lightest drill here. At $99, it’s the cheapest. And it’s still brushless with an all-metal gear case.
This is NOT a hammer drill — you’re not drilling into concrete with this. But here’s the thing: most DIY projects don’t need hammer mode. Hanging floating shelves? This handles it. Assembling that bed frame? Done. Installing cabinet hardware, towel bars, or building a workbench? More than enough power.
And here’s the real play: once you have that M18 battery, you have access to 200+ tools in the ecosystem. Circular saw, reciprocating saw, impact driver, leaf blower — all running on the same batteries.
Think of it as the gateway drug to Milwaukee. They know exactly what they’re doing. And honestly? It works.
Specs: 550 in-lbs torque | 1,700 RPM | 2.3 lbs | No hammer function
The Verdict: Best entry point to a premium ecosystem. Perfect for DIYers who don’t need hammer drilling — and most of you don’t.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2904-20 — Best Overall
Price: $179 (tool only) | Aggregated Rating: 4.75/5 (6,750+ reviews)
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2904-20 is the drill other drills get compared to. At 1,400 in-lbs of torque stuffed into a 6.9″ body weighing just 3.3 lbs, Milwaukee somehow broke physics here.
Is it overkill for hanging picture frames? Absolutely. But when you’re driving 3″ deck screws into pressure-treated lumber, or boring holes for running cable through studs, you’ll appreciate the extra muscle.
The AutoStop Control Mode is genuinely useful — when the bit binds, the drill stops instead of spinning your wrist into next week. That all-metal chuck with carbide teeth? It grips.
At $179, you’re paying the “Milwaukee tax.” But if you want the best all-around drill that can handle anything from IKEA assembly to building a deck, this is it.
Specs: 1,400 in-lbs torque | 2,100 RPM | 33,000 BPM | 3.3 lbs | 6.9″ length
The Verdict: The benchmark. If you can only buy one hammer drill and want it to last a decade of weekend projects, buy this one.
Bosch GSB18V-800C — Best for Precision Work
Price: $159 (tool only) | Aggregated Rating: 4.6/5 (605 reviews)
At 2.7 lbs, the Bosch GSB18V-800C is almost comically light. But it’s the control features that make this drill special for DIYers who care about finesse.
KickBack Control stops the drill when it detects a sudden rotation from a bind-up. The Switchable Precision Clutch with 20 settings gives you the kind of finesse that matters when you’re driving screws into melamine, MDF, or pre-drilled furniture without stripping anything.
If you’re into woodworking, building furniture, or anything that requires not destroying materials with brute force, this is your drill. Working overhead on a ladder? That 2.7 lb weight is a godsend.
5-year warranty standard. The trade-off? Only 565 in-lbs of torque — this isn’t for drilling through footings. It’s for people who want control over chaos.
Specs: 565 in-lbs torque | 2,100 RPM | 29,500 BPM | 2.7 lbs | 6.9″ length
The Verdict: The surgeon’s scalpel. Perfect for furniture builders and DIYers who value precision over raw power.
Makita XPH14Z — Most Reliable
Price: $189 (tool only) | Aggregated Rating: 4.7/5 (2,830+ reviews)
Buy at Amazon | Check Price on Amazon
Makita doesn’t get the fanboy love that Milwaukee and DeWalt do, and honestly? That works in your favor. You get excellent tools without the hype tax.
The XPH14Z delivers 1,250 in-lbs of torque — plenty for any DIY project you’ll throw at it. I’ve seen these things survive drops, dust, and the kind of garage storage abuse that would kill lesser drills.
Is it the most powerful? No. The most compact? No. But it might be the most reliable. The LXT battery ecosystem is mature and often more affordable than Milwaukee or DeWalt.
Specs: 1,250 in-lbs torque | 2,100 RPM | 31,500 BPM | 4.3 lbs | 7.0″ length
The Verdict: The Toyota Tacoma of drills. Not flashy, built to last, holds its value. The kind of tool you buy once.
DeWalt DCD800B — Best Compact Drill/Driver
Price: $149 (tool only) | Aggregated Rating: 4.8/5 (3,570 reviews)
Check Price on Amazon | Buy at Amazon
The DCD800B is DeWalt’s answer to tight spaces. At 6.37″ long, it’s the shortest drill here. If you’re working inside cabinets, under sinks, or in any awkward position around the house, you’ll appreciate every millimeter.
This is a drill/driver, not a hammer drill — so no concrete. But for wood, drywall, and metal, it punches well above its weight. The ergonomics are excellent — it’s the kind of drill that just feels right in your hand.
Perfect for DIYers tackling kitchen and bathroom projects where space is tight.
Specs: 2,000 RPM | 2.82 lbs | 6.37″ length | Not a hammer drill
The Verdict: Best-in-class compactness. Great for anyone doing work in tight spaces around the house.
DeWalt DCD999B — Maximum Power (If You Need It)
Price: $239 (tool only) | Aggregated Rating: 4.8/5 (6,300+ reviews)
Check Price on Amazon | Buy at Amazon
Here’s DeWalt’s secret weapon: FlexVolt Advantage. Pop in a FlexVolt battery and this thing transforms — 42% more power on demand. That’s not marketing BS; you can feel it.
Do you need this for DIY projects? Honestly, probably not. This is getting into serious territory — building decks, framing a shed, driving massive lag bolts. If your projects regularly involve structural lumber and heavy-duty fastening, it’s worth considering.
At $239 tool-only, it’s pricier than what most homeowners need. But for serious DIYers tackling bigger projects, it’s got power to spare.
Specs: 1,219 UWO | 2,000 RPM | 38,250 BPM | 3.6 lbs | 8.4″ length
The Verdict: More power than most DIYers need, but excellent for bigger projects like deck building or shed construction.
Metabo HPT DV36DC — Best Splurge
Price: $329 (kit with battery/charger) | Aggregated Rating: 4.65/5 (525 reviews)
Buy at Amazon | Check Price on Amazon
Okay, $329 is splurge territory for DIYers — I’ll be honest. But the Metabo HPT DV36DC offers something nobody else does: the ability to run on AC power with an adapter.
That’s right. The ET36A adapter lets you plug this drill into the wall and never worry about batteries. For garage/workshop use where you’re near an outlet, that’s genuinely useful.
It ties Milwaukee for the highest torque at 1,400 in-lbs, and comes with a lifetime tool body warranty. The kit price includes a battery and charger — so it’s actually competitive when you factor that in.
If you have the budget and want a tool that’ll handle anything you throw at it, this is the underrated choice.
Specs: 1,400 in-lbs torque | 2,200 RPM | 33,000 BPM | 4.6 lbs | 22 clutch settings
The Verdict: The underrated powerhouse. Same power as Milwaukee, lifetime warranty, corded option. Splurge-worthy for serious DIYers.
Full Specs Comparison Table
| Model | Torque | RPM | BPM | Weight | Hammer | Price | Torque/$ 💰 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ridgid R86116 🏆 | 800 in-lbs | 2,100 | 27,300 | 3.85 lbs | ✅ | $129 | 6.20 in-lbs/$ |
| Milwaukee 3601-20 ⚠️ | 550 in-lbs | 1,700 | — | 2.3 lbs | ❌ | $99 | 5.56 in-lbs/$ |
| Milwaukee 2904-20 🏆 | 1,400 in-lbs | 2,100 | 33,000 | 3.3 lbs | ✅ | $179 | 7.82 in-lbs/$ |
| Bosch GSB18V-800C | 565 in-lbs | 2,100 | 29,500 | 2.7 lbs | ✅ | $159 | 3.55 in-lbs/$ |
| Makita XPH14Z | 1,250 in-lbs | 2,100 | 31,500 | 4.3 lbs | ✅ | $189 | 6.61 in-lbs/$ |
| DeWalt DCD800B | — | 2,000 | — | 2.82 lbs | ❌ | $149 | — |
| DeWalt DCD999B | 1,219 UWO | 2,000 | 38,250 | 3.6 lbs | ✅ | $239 | 5.10 UWO/$ |
| Metabo HPT DV36DC | 1,400 in-lbs | 2,200 | 33,000 | 4.6 lbs | ✅ | $329* | 4.26 in-lbs/$ |
*Kit price with battery/charger
🏆 = Winner in category | ⚠️ = Budget pick | 💰 = Best value ratio
Key Spec Winners:
- Most Torque: Milwaukee 2904-20 & Metabo HPT DV36DC (tie at 1,400 in-lbs)
- Lightest: Milwaukee 3601-20 (2.3 lbs)
- Highest BPM: DeWalt DCD999B (38,250 BPM for concrete)
- Best Value: Ridgid R86116 (6.20 in-lbs per dollar + lifetime warranty)
💰 Best Value Calculator: Price Per Performance
What you get for every dollar spent:
| Model | Torque/$ | Weight Score | Feature Score | Value Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ridgid R86116 🏆💰 | 6.20 in-lbs/$ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | A+ |
| Milwaukee 3601-20 💵 | 5.56 in-lbs/$ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | A |
| Makita XPH14Z | 6.61 in-lbs/$ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | B+ |
| Milwaukee 2904-20 | 7.82 in-lbs/$ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | A+ |
| Bosch GSB18V-800C | 3.55 in-lbs/$ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | B |
| DeWalt DCD999B | 5.10 UWO/$ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | B+ |
Value Calculation Method:
- Torque/$ = Total torque ÷ Price (higher = more power per dollar)
- Weight Score = Lighter is better for DIY use
- Feature Score = Hammer function, clutch settings, smart features
- Lifetime Warranty Bonus: Ridgid R86116 gets +1 full grade for free batteries forever
Bottom Line for Budget Buyers:
- Under $100: Milwaukee 3601-20 offers premium brand quality at entry price
- Under $150: Ridgid R86116 is unbeatable with lifetime warranty + free batteries
- Best Overall Value: Milwaukee 2904-20 delivers pro-level specs at reasonable price
Best Cordless Drill by DIY Budget
Under $150: The Sweet Spot for Most DIYers
| Model | Price | Amazon Rating | Best For | View Deal → |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee 3601-20 💵 | $99 | ⭐ 4.8/5 (2,570+) | Light duty, ecosystem entry | View Deal |
| Ridgid R86116 🏆💰 | $129 | ⭐ 4.7/5 (4,050+) | Best overall value, lifetime warranty | View Deal |
| DeWalt DCD800B | $149 | ⭐ 4.8/5 (3,570+) | Tight spaces, cabinet work | View Deal |
My pick for most DIYers: Ridgid R86116. That lifetime warranty — including free battery replacements — is absurd value.
$150-$200: More Power Than You Probably Need (But Nice to Have)
| Model | Price | Amazon Rating | Best For | View Deal → |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch GSB18V-800C | $159 | ⭐ 4.6/5 (605+) | Precision work, light weight | View Deal |
| Milwaukee 2904-20 | $179 | ⭐ 4.8/5 (6,750+) | All-around excellence | View Deal |
| Makita XPH14Z | $189 | ⭐ 4.7/5 (2,830+) | Long-term reliability | View Deal |
My pick: Milwaukee 2904-20 if you want the best. Bosch if you prioritize control and light weight.
$200+: Splurge Territory
| Model | Price | Amazon Rating | Best For | View Deal → |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCD999B | $239 | ⭐ 4.8/5 (6,300+) | Maximum power for big projects | View Deal |
| Metabo HPT DV36DC | $329 (kit) | ⭐ 4.7/5 (525+) | Power + corded option + warranty | View Deal |
My pick: Only go here if you’re tackling serious construction projects — decks, sheds, framing. For typical DIY, save your money.
Aggregated Ratings Summary
| Model | Amazon | Home Depot | Combined Avg | Total Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ridgid R86116 | 4.7 ⭐ | 4.7 ⭐ | 4.70 | 4,050+ |
| Milwaukee 3601-20 | 4.8 ⭐ | 4.8 ⭐ | 4.80 | 2,570 |
| Milwaukee 2904-20 | 4.8 ⭐ | 4.7 ⭐ | 4.75 | 6,750+ |
| DeWalt DCD999B | 4.8 ⭐ | 4.8 ⭐ | 4.80 | 6,300+ |
| Makita XPH14Z | 4.7 ⭐ | 4.7 ⭐ | 4.70 | 2,830+ |
| Bosch GSB18V-800C | 4.6 ⭐ | 4.6 ⭐ | 4.60 | 605 |
| DeWalt DCD800B | 4.8 ⭐ | 4.8 ⭐ | 4.80 | 3,570+ |
| Metabo HPT DV36DC | 4.6 ⭐ | 4.7 ⭐ | 4.65 | 525 |
FAQ: Cordless Drill Questions Answered
What’s the difference between a drill and a hammer drill?
A regular drill/driver rotates. A hammer drill rotates AND pulses forward (BPM = blows per minute). You need hammer mode for concrete, brick, and masonry. For wood, drywall, and metal, regular drill mode works great.
Do I need brushless?
In 2026? Yes. Brushless motors are more efficient (longer runtime), more powerful, and last longer. The price difference has basically disappeared. Don’t buy brushed.
Do I actually need a hammer drill for DIY?
Honest answer: probably not. Most DIY projects involve wood, drywall, and the occasional metal. But if you ever want to mount a TV on brick, install something into a concrete basement wall, or anchor into cinder block — you’ll need hammer mode. The price difference is usually $20-30, so I’d get one just in case.
What brand has the best battery ecosystem?
1. Milwaukee — 200+ M18 tools, most diverse lineup
2. DeWalt — Huge selection, FlexVolt cross-compatibility
3. Makita — Mature LXT platform, often more affordable
4. Ridgid — Smaller selection but free lifetime battery replacement You might also find our Milwaukee vs DeWalt drill comparison roundup helpful.
Tool-only vs. kit: which should I buy?
- Buy tool-only if you already have batteries in that platform
- Buy a kit if you’re starting fresh — usually includes battery + charger
- Watch for holiday sales — kits often drop 30-40% at Home Depot and Amazon
How long do cordless drill batteries last?
Most lithium-ion batteries last 3-5 years with regular DIY use, or 500+ charge cycles. Ridgid’s Lifetime Service Agreement covers battery replacement forever. Everyone else makes you buy new ones ($80-150 each).
What’s enough torque for DIY projects?
- Hanging shelves, pictures, assembling furniture: 400+ in-lbs (any drill here)
- Deck screws, lag bolts, boring holes: 600+ in-lbs
- Heavy construction: 800+ in-lbs
For 90% of homeowner projects, even the “budget” options have more power than you need.
Frequently Bought Together: Essential Drill Accessories
A cordless drill is only as good as the bits you pair it with. Here are the two accessory sets that consistently show up in “bought together” data — and for good reason. For more recommendations, check out our best drill bit sets guide.
DEWALT DWA1184 Black & Gold Drill Bit Set (14-Piece)
Price: ~$15 | Rating: 4.7/5 (15,000+ reviews)
This is the drill bit set that should come standard with every cordless drill. The Black & Gold coating isn’t just for looks — it actually prevents rust and extends bit life. The 135° split point tips reduce walking when you start drilling, which means fewer scratched surfaces and more accurate holes.
The 14 sizes (1/16″ to 1/2″) cover 99% of DIY drilling needs. Wood, metal, plastic — these bits handle it all. The 3-flats shank design prevents spin-out in your drill’s chuck, which is one of those small details that matters more than you’d think.
Best for: Anyone buying their first cordless drill or replacing worn-out bits. This is the “buy once, use for years” starter set.
CRAFTSMAN Drill/Driver Bit Set, 60-Piece (CMAF1260)
Price: ~$25 | Rating: 4.8/5 (5,400+ reviews)
If the DEWALT set handles drilling, the Craftsman 60-piece set handles everything else. Driver bits for Phillips, flathead, Torx, square drive, and hex fasteners. Nut drivers for assembly work. Even some drill bits thrown in for good measure.
The impact-ready construction means these bits won’t shatter when you inevitably overtorque a screw (we’ve all done it). CNC-machined tips reduce cam-out — that annoying thing where the bit slips out of the screw head and strips it.
The organized case actually stays organized, which is rarer than you’d think for accessory sets. When you’re assembling furniture at 10 PM and need a #2 Phillips bit right now, you’ll appreciate this.
Best for: DIYers who do more than just drill holes. If you assemble furniture, install fixtures, or do any kind of fastening work, this set pays for itself in convenience.
Pro tip: Buy both. For $40 combined, you’ll have everything you need for years of projects. Drill holes with the DEWALT bits, drive screws with the Craftsman bits, and stop making trips to the hardware store mid-project.
The Bottom Line for DIYers
If you made it this far and still can’t decide:
- Best overall value: Ridgid R86116 ($129). That lifetime warranty with free batteries is insane. If I could only recommend one drill to a DIYer, this is it.
- Tightest budget: Milwaukee M18 3601-20 ($99). Premium brand, gateway to a massive ecosystem, handles 95% of home projects.
- Want the best: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2904-20 ($179). The benchmark. Will handle everything from IKEA assembly to deck building.
- Precision matters: Bosch GSB18V-800C ($159). Lightest weight, best control features. Great for furniture makers.
- Big projects: If you’re building decks, framing sheds, or doing anything resembling construction — then look at the DeWalt DCD999B or Metabo HPT DV36DC. But for typical DIY? Save your money.
Now stop reading and go build something.
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Target Keyword: best cordless drill 2026
Models covered: Ridgid R86116, Milwaukee 3601-20, Milwaukee 2904-20, Bosch GSB18V-800C, Makita XPH14Z, DeWalt DCD800B, DeWalt DCD999B, Metabo HPT DV36DC
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