| Product | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
 1. Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2904-20 Hammer Drill/Driver (Tool Only) Milwaukee Best Overall | Check Price | |
 2. DEWALT FLEXVOLT ADVANTAGE DCD999B Hammer Drill DEWALT Best High-Performance Hammer Drill | Check Price | |
 3. Makita XFD131 18V LXT Brushless Drill Kit Makita Best for Woodworkers | Check Price | |
| 4. Makita XPH12T 18V LXT Compact Hammer Drill Kit Makita Best Compact Hammer Drill Kit | Check Price | |
| 5. Milwaukee M18 2606-22CT Compact Drill Kit Milwaukee Best Compact M18 Pick | Check Price | |
| 6. DEWALT ATOMIC DCD708C2 Compact Drill Kit DEWALT Best Lightweight Compact | Check Price | |
 7. BOSCH PS31-2A 12V Max Drill Kit BOSCH Best 12V Ultra-Compact | Check Price | |
 8. CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCD700C1 Drill Kit CRAFTSMAN Best Budget Kit with Battery | Check Price | |
 9. RIDGID 18V Brushless Drill/Driver Kit RIDGID Best for Lifetime Service Agreement | Check Price | |
 10. RYOBI ONE+ PCL206B 18V Drill/Driver RYOBI Best ONE+ System Expander | Check Price |
Detailed Reviews
Milwaukee
1. Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2904-20 Hammer Drill/Driver (Tool Only)
Pros
- FUEL brushless motor delivers 1,400 in-lbs of torque with consistent output across the battery charge cycle
- Hammer drill mode handles concrete anchors, brick, block, and masonry
- All-metal 1/2" chuck with carbide teeth grips masonry bits firmly under sustained load
Cons
- Sold tool only — M18 battery and charger are purchased separately
- Heavier than compact drill/drivers due to the internal hammer mechanism
The 2904-20 brings 1,400 in-lbs of brushless FUEL torque, an all-metal 1/2" chuck, and hammer mode for concrete, brick, and block — sold tool only. Existing M18 owners can add it without extra hardware; newcomers to the platform will need to budget for a battery and charger alongside the tool.
DEWALT
2. DEWALT FLEXVOLT ADVANTAGE DCD999B Hammer Drill
Pros
- FLEXVOLT batteries backward-compatible with all DEWALT 20V MAX tools
- 1/2-inch chuck accepts large-diameter bits and spade bits
- Hammer drill mode for concrete, block, and masonry work
Cons
- Sold tool-only — you need to purchase a FLEXVOLT battery separately
- Larger and heavier than non-hammer 20V MAX drill/drivers
If you're already running DEWALT 20V MAX tools, the DCD999B slots right into your battery lineup while adding serious hammer-drill capability. The 1/2-inch chuck and FLEXVOLT compatibility make it the logical heavy-duty upgrade for existing DEWALT users.
Makita
3. Makita XFD131 18V LXT Brushless Drill Kit
Pros
- Brushless motor reduces maintenance intervals and extends motor life
- Ships with a 3.0Ah battery for extended runtime on cabinetwork
- Variable speed control matches drilling pace to material and screw size
Cons
- No hammer mode — cannot drill into concrete or brick
- LXT battery platform is separate from all other brands' ecosystems
Woodworkers will value the XFD131's variable speed precision and the 3.0Ah battery that keeps the tool running through a full day of cabinet assembly or furniture work. The brushless motor and LXT platform make it a long-term investment for Makita users.
Makita
4. Makita XPH12T 18V LXT Compact Hammer Drill Kit
Pros
- Compact body fits overhead and into tight cabinet corners
- Brushless motor provides 18V LXT efficiency in a reduced footprint
- Hammer drive mode handles light concrete anchors and masonry
Cons
- Compact size limits battery capacity compared to full-size 18V kits
- LXT batteries are platform-exclusive, not cross-compatible with other brands
The XPH12T puts brushless performance and hammer-drill capability into a compact body that works overhead and in cramped spaces where a full-size drill becomes a liability. If you need both reach and masonry capability without the bulk, this kit earns its spot.
Milwaukee
5. Milwaukee M18 2606-22CT Compact Drill Kit
Pros
- 1/2-inch chuck handles standard and larger-shank bits
- Compact footprint reduces fatigue during extended assembly work
- Kit includes two batteries and charger for uninterrupted use
Cons
- No hammer mode — not suited for masonry or concrete drilling
- Lighter-duty than Milwaukee's FUEL brushless models for heavy materials
The M18 2606-22CT handles everyday drilling and driving on wood, drywall, and metal without the added weight of a hammer mechanism. Two batteries in the kit keep you moving while one charges — a practical setup for all-day projects around the house.
DEWALT
6. DEWALT ATOMIC DCD708C2 Compact Drill Kit
Pros
- 20V MAX power in one of DEWALT's most compact drill bodies
- 1/2-inch chuck handles standard drill bits and driver shanks
- Kit includes two batteries and a charger — no additional purchases required
Cons
- Smaller battery pack than full-size 20V MAX kits means shorter runtime
- Drill/driver only — no hammer mode for masonry
The ATOMIC DCD708C2 is built for people who drill overhead, in tight spaces, or just want a lighter grip throughout a long project day. It's also the most accessible entry point into DEWALT's 20V MAX ecosystem, where the same battery powers dozens of other tools.
BOSCH
7. BOSCH PS31-2A 12V Max Drill Kit
Pros
- 12V Max battery keeps total tool weight exceptionally low
- Includes two batteries and charger for back-to-back use
- 3/8-inch chuck is the standard for 12V-class drilling work
Cons
- 12V output delivers noticeably less torque than 18V or 20V alternatives
- 3/8-inch chuck cannot accept 1/2-inch shank bits or large spade bits
Electricians, finish carpenters, and anyone who drills one-handed overhead will reach for the PS31-2A first. Two batteries eliminate downtime for light tasks, though you'll want an 18V or 20V option when driving larger fasteners or working in denser materials.
CRAFTSMAN
8. CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCD700C1 Drill Kit
Pros
- V20 battery and charger included — a complete kit at an accessible price
- 1/2-inch chuck handles household and light-workshop tasks
- V20 platform compatible with the broader CRAFTSMAN cordless lineup
Cons
- Less refined grip ergonomics than premium-tier drill bodies
- Stock battery capacity is lower than higher-Ah V20 upgrade packs
The CMCD700C1 gives you a real 20V drill with battery and charger in one purchase, making it the practical pick for a first power tool or for occasional projects. The V20 ecosystem means you can add saws and sanders later without buying new chargers.
RIDGID
9. RIDGID 18V Brushless Drill/Driver Kit
Pros
- Lifetime Service Agreement covers repair or replacement when registered
- Brushless motor for extended motor life and better runtime efficiency
- 1/2-inch chuck paired with a 2.0Ah MAX Output Battery
Cons
- 2.0Ah battery delivers shorter runtime than higher-Ah alternatives
- RIDGID's 18V platform offers fewer tool options than Milwaukee or DEWALT
RIDGID's Lifetime Service Agreement sets this kit apart — register it and the company covers repairs or replacement for the life of the tool. The brushless motor adds efficiency, though the 2.0Ah battery may need a mid-day charge on heavier workloads.
RYOBI
10. RYOBI ONE+ PCL206B 18V Drill/Driver
Pros
- Joins the RYOBI ONE+ system, compatible with hundreds of 18V tools
- 18V output and 1/2-inch chuck handle everyday household tasks
- Tool-only option keeps cost low for existing ONE+ battery owners
Cons
- Sold tool-only — requires a ONE+ battery and charger to use
- ONE+ batteries are not interchangeable with other brands
The PCL206B is the natural first step into the RYOBI ONE+ ecosystem, where one battery platform covers circular saws, jigsaws, and much more. If you already own a ONE+ battery, this drill adds drilling capability without adding charger clutter to your bench.
How We Picked
We evaluated each drill using manufacturer spec sheets, independent testing reports from trade and consumer publications, and thousands of verified owner reviews. Every specification in this list — voltage, chuck size, motor type, and battery rating — comes from official product documentation or confirmed third-party sources. Our priority was practical, real-world performance across the tasks most people actually do: drilling into wood and metal, driving screws in drywall, and the occasional concrete anchor or masonry job. We also considered battery ecosystem depth, since choosing a drill usually means committing to a platform for the next several years of tool purchases. For a shorter list focused on ease of use and first-time buyers, see our 5 best cordless drills for beginners.
Buying Guide
Voltage: 12V vs 18V vs 20V
Voltage is the clearest indicator of how much work a drill can handle. Twelve-volt drills like the BOSCH PS31-2A are purpose-built for light assembly, finish carpentry, and one-handed overhead work where weight matters more than raw torque. Step up to 18V or 20V MAX — the range covering everything from the Milwaukee M18 FUEL to the CRAFTSMAN V20 — and you get enough power to drill through thick framing lumber, drive long lag screws, and run through a heavy workload without the motor slowing under load. Most homeowners and regular DIYers belong in the 18V or 20V class.
Brushless vs Brushed Motor
Brushless motors, standard on the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2904-20, DEWALT DCD999B, Makita XFD131, Makita XPH12T, and RIDGID 18V, eliminate the carbon brush contact that gradually wears down inside brushed motors. The result: more runtime per charge, a motor that runs cooler under sustained load, and a longer overall service life. If you plan to use your drill several hours a week, brushless is worth the step up. For occasional weekend projects, a brushed motor works reliably for years and costs less to start.
Battery Platform
Choosing a drill means choosing a battery ecosystem. Milwaukee M18, DEWALT 20V MAX, Makita 18V LXT, RYOBI ONE+, CRAFTSMAN V20, and RIDGID 18V are all separate platforms — batteries from one brand do not fit another. Before you buy, check which platform you already own tools in. The DEWALT FLEXVOLT DCD999B stands out because its battery also works in any DEWALT 20V MAX tool, and the RYOBI ONE+ PCL206B opens access to hundreds of compatible tools on one battery. Shared batteries are where you recoup the platform investment over time.
Chuck Size
Every 18V and 20V drill on this list uses a 1/2-inch chuck — the standard for full-size cordless drills, accepting most bit shanks, spade bits, and small hole-saw arbors. The BOSCH PS31-2A uses a 3/8-inch chuck, normal for 12V tools, but it cannot accept 1/2-inch shank bits or larger accessories. Confirm the chuck size if you plan to use a variety of bit types.
Torque Settings and Variable Speed
A variable-speed trigger lets you start fasteners slowly and ramp up, which prevents cam-out and stripped screw heads. The clutch — the numbered ring near the chuck — sets how much force the drill applies before slipping, protecting delicate materials. Look for at least 15 clutch positions plus a dedicated drill mode on any model you’ll use daily. The Makita XFD131 is specifically noted for its variable speed control suited to cabinetwork and furniture assembly.
Weight and Ergonomics
Hammer drills like the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2904-20 and the DEWALT DCD999B weigh more than standard drill/drivers because of the internal hammer mechanism. If you’re mostly driving screws and drilling into wood, that extra weight offers no practical advantage. Compact models like the DEWALT ATOMIC DCD708C2 and Milwaukee M18 2606-22CT are easier to maneuver overhead and better suited to users who prefer a lighter grip throughout a long day.
Drill Safety and Battery Care
Always wear safety glasses when drilling — especially overhead or into masonry where debris falls toward your face. Before drilling near any wall, use a stud finder or wiring detector to locate pipes and electrical cables. Secure loose workpieces before you start; a drill bit catching on an unsecured board can spin it fast enough to cause injury. For battery longevity, avoid draining lithium-ion packs to zero before recharging — partial recharges are fine and better for cell health over time. Store batteries at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. If you own the RIDGID 18V Brushless Kit, register it on the day it arrives — the Lifetime Service Agreement requires registration and does not activate retroactively. Never insert a 12V battery into an 18V charger or vice versa; voltage mismatch damages the battery or charger and voids the warranty. For specific jobs, see our best compact cordless drills, best cordless impact drivers, and best hammer drills for concrete.