A good cordless drill is one of the most essential tools for any DIY enthusiast or homeowner. Whether you’re hanging shelves, assembling furniture, or tackling light renovations, the right drill makes every task quicker and more efficient. With today’s advancements in battery life, torque, and smart features, cordless drills are more powerful and user-friendly than ever.
Here are the best cordless drills for home projects in 2025, carefully selected for their performance, ease of use, battery life, and value.
1. DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCD791D2
Best Overall Cordless Drill
- Voltage: 20V
- Speed: 0–550 / 0–2,000 RPM (2-speed)
- Torque: 530 in-lbs
- Weight: 3.4 lbs (with battery)
- Battery: 2x 2.0Ah Li-ion included
- Price: ~$179
Why It’s Great:
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR offers a perfect mix of power, durability, and compact design, making it ideal for virtually all home tasks. With high-speed transmission and brushless motor technology, it delivers both extended runtime and strong torque for driving screws and drilling into wood, metal, and plastic.
✅ Pros:
- Long-lasting brushless motor
- Lightweight yet powerful
- Excellent build quality
- LED work light included
❌ Cons:
- Slightly higher price than basic models
2. Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless Drill/Driver (2801-22CT)
Best for Power Users and Frequent DIYers
- Voltage: 18V
- Speed: 0–500 / 0–1,800 RPM
- Torque: 500 in-lbs
- Weight: 3.7 lbs
- Battery: 2x M18 REDLITHIUM batteries included
- Price: ~$199
Why It’s Great:
Milwaukee’s M18 series is trusted by pros and serious DIYers alike. This compact drill has a brushless motor that ensures high performance and longer lifespan. It’s designed for tight spots but doesn’t sacrifice torque, making it a powerhouse in a small frame.
✅ Pros:
- Professional-grade performance
- Durable and reliable
- Fast charging and long battery life
❌ Cons:
- Heavier than other compact drills
- Higher price point
3. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX LDX120C
Best Budget-Friendly Drill for Light Tasks
- Voltage: 20V
- Speed: 0–650 RPM
- Torque: 115 in-lbs
- Weight: 3.15 lbs
- Battery: 1x 1.5Ah Li-ion included
- Price: ~$59
Why It’s Great:
Perfect for small home jobs, the BLACK+DECKER LDX120C is an affordable yet reliable drill for everyday use. It’s ideal for light drilling, assembling furniture, or hanging décor. While it’s not built for heavy-duty use, it’s a great first drill for new homeowners or hobbyists.
✅ Pros:
- Great value for money
- Lightweight and compact
- Easy to handle for beginners
❌ Cons:
- Lower torque and speed
- Not suitable for tougher materials
4. Makita XFD131 18V LXT Brushless Drill
Best for Balance of Power and Comfort
- Voltage: 18V
- Speed: 0–500 / 0–1,900 RPM
- Torque: 440 in-lbs
- Weight: 3.8 lbs
- Battery: 1x 3.0Ah Li-ion included
- Price: ~$169
Why It’s Great:
Makita’s XFD131 features a brushless motor that enhances performance while reducing heat and wear. Its ergonomic grip, lightweight design, and excellent torque make it a great choice for home users who want a tool that’s comfortable to use for long periods.
✅ Pros:
- High torque with brushless efficiency
- Comfortable grip and balanced design
- Rapid charger included
❌ Cons:
- Single battery in kit
- Slightly heavier than average
5. Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Compact Drill/Driver Kit
Best for Compact Spaces and Versatility
- Voltage: 18V
- Speed: 0–450 / 0–1,700 RPM
- Torque: 400 in-lbs
- Weight: 2.8 lbs
- Battery: 1x 1.5Ah Li-ion included
- Price: ~$99
Why It’s Great:
The Ryobi ONE+ HP is part of the popular ONE+ ecosystem, meaning the battery is compatible with 100+ other Ryobi tools. This drill is lightweight, compact, and great for working in tight spaces or overhead tasks. It’s also a great value for anyone already invested in Ryobi tools.
✅ Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Affordable and versatile
- Part of a large tool system
❌ Cons:
- Moderate torque
- Basic battery life for heavy tasks
The Right Drill for the Job
Choosing the best cordless drill depends on the nature of your home projects and how frequently you plan to use it. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
| Model | Best For | Torque | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCD791D2 | All-around home projects | 530 in-lbs | ~$179 |
| Milwaukee M18 2801-22CT | Power users & frequent DIY | 500 in-lbs | ~$199 |
| BLACK+DECKER 20V LDX120C | Light-duty & budget users | 115 in-lbs | ~$59 |
| Makita XFD131 | Balanced power and comfort | 440 in-lbs | ~$169 |
| Ryobi ONE+ HP Compact Drill | Tight spaces & Ryobi fans | 400 in-lbs | ~$99 |
No matter your project, these cordless drills will help you get the job done efficiently and with confidence.
