Best Hand Drills

Introduction

Whether a professional contractor or DIY homeowner, a hand drill is one of the most commonly used and versatile power tools in any toolbox. We put together a list of the 12 best hand drill reviews of 2021, highlighting what each one does best and providing a helpful guide to answer all of your questions.

Top Rated Hand Drills- Review and Buyers Guide

Bosch PS32-02 Drill Driver

Best 12V Hand Drill

The Bosch PS32-02 may not wow you with the most impressive specs on our list. But, it is extremely well-made and perfect for those homeowners who prefer investing in quality. This 12-volt drill starts with a brushless motor. This increases its battery life while also prolonging the longevity of the tool, making it more durable.

In addition to,  you do not have to worry about long term use with the Bosch PS32-02 thanks to the lightweight design. It is also worth noting that this 12-volt drill is more compact than most and comes with a built-in LED work light. However,  most professionals will find its lack of rolex sea dweller 16600 dial negro hombre pulsera acero oyster power a bit too limiting.

Features

• Motor: Brushless
• Volts: 12V
• RPM: 0 to 400, 0 to 1300
• Clutch: 20+1 settings
• Weight: 2 lbs

Recap

The Bosch PS32-02 is a tad expensive for a consumer-grade market. Still, there is no getting around the fact that it is easy to use, comes with extra features, and has a solid build.

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DEWALT XTREME MAX DCD701F2 Drill Driver Kit

Best Lightweight Hand Drill

DEWALT might be known for larger, professional-grade 20-volt drills, but the DEWALT XTREME MAX DCD701F2 bucks that trend with the lightest build on our list. However, it seems that this option does not know what it wants to be. It is not the most powerful model that we encountered but comes with job site features.

A perfect example of this is the DEWALT XTREME MAX DCD701F2 belt clip which makes the lightweight model easy to access. Yet, homeowners are not liable to need this feature. Still, the entry is one of the many cordless drills that come with a LED work light. This is a blessing for both the average rxs mini cup descartavel vape 8000 puffs super cola consumer and professional contractor alike.

Features

• Motor: Brushless
• Volts: 12V
• RPM: 0 to 425, 0 to 1500
• Clutch: 15 settings
• Weight: 2 lbs

Recap

The DEWALT XTREME MAX DCD701F2 is the perfect option for someone who needs an ergonomic design or even a professional that regularly finds themselves in tight, cramped spaces.

Bosch Power Tools PS31-2A Drill Kit

Best Brushed Hand Drill

The Bosch Power Tools PS31-2A is a bit unusual for the brand in that it uses the older brushed motor technology. But, it is every bit as good for the average consumer. For starters, you do not need to worry about finding the proper setting to keep your home and furniture unstuffed thanks to a clutch with 20+1 settings.

As if that were not enough, the Bosch Power Tools PS31-2A also comes in at just 1 ⅘ lb– the lightest model that we reviewed. Unfortunately, that lightweight design combined with its compact profile limits its power a bit. True for all 12-volt drills with maximum speeds of 1300 rpm may struggle on professional job sites.

Features

• Motor: Brushed
• Volts: 12V
• RPM: 0 to 350, 0 to 1,300
• Clutch: 20+1 settings
• Weight: 1 ⅘ lbs

Recap

The Bosch Power Tools PS31-2A may not provide as much power as some of the other models that we encountered, but it is hard to ignore its consumer-friendly features or reliable build.

DEWALT MAX XR DCD991P2 Drill Driver

Best Masonry Hand Drill

The DEWALT MAX XR DCD991P2 is a bit unusual in that it is not technically an impact driver. Still, it comes with the side handle commonly associated with them. That said, this entry may well be the best option for stone and other masonry. This is thanks to a powerful 20V motor that generates plenty of torque.

It also does not hurt that the DEWALT MAX XR DCD991P2 is the only model reviewed that comes with 3 different speed settings. This allows it to accommodate a wide range of materials. Even better, the ½” chuck allows you to use larger, professional bits. Though, all of this power comes at the cost of a heavier build.

Features

• Motor: Brushless
• Volts: 20V
• RPM: 0 to 450, 0 to 1300, 0 to 2000
• Clutch: 11 settings
• Weight: 4 ⅗ lbs

Recap

If you are a woodworker who finds most settings a bit too extreme, then the DEWALT MAX XR DCD991P2 3-speed settings offer you enough room to find the proper amount of torque.

DEWALT MAX XR DCD791D2 Drill Driver Kit

Best 20V Hand Drill

The DEWALT MAX XR DCD791D2 is a fairly impressive product that delivers both in terms of powers as well as features for a great professional-grade build. For starters, this is one of the best 20-volt drills that we encountered. This ensures that the motor delivers exceptional drilling and driving power.

On top of that, this 20-volt drill also comes with one of the fastest speeds we reviewed at 2000 rpm. You can also gear it down to only 500 rpm for better torque. To make sure that the DEWALT MAX XR DCD791D2 20-volt Drill works as well in the home as the job site, it also comes with a 3-way LED and ½” chuck.

Features

• Motor: Brushless
• Volts: 20V
• RPM: 0 to 550, 0 to 2,000
• Clutch: 15 settings
• Weight: 3 ⅖ lbs

Recap

The DEWALT MAX XR DCD791D2 is a fairly effective model that provides plenty of power. It also offers some extra features that make it good for professionals and hobbyists alike.

Hilti SFD 2-a Hammer Drill Driver

Best Budget Impact Driver Hand Drill

The Hilti SFD 2-a Hammer Driver is a bit unusual in that it is marketed to homeowners. They do not usually need an impact driver and does not come with a side handle for stabilization. However, that may not matter as this entry is one of the least powerful we encountered thanks to a 10V brushed motor– though it still has its purpose.

For one, the Hilti SFD 2-a Hammer Driver is lighter than most professional drivers, let alone an impact driver. It also comes in a compact profile for easier use. It also does not hurt that this is an inexpensive option that comes with dual LED work lights to make using it in darker, confined spaces that much easier.

Features

• Motor: Brushed
• Volts: 10V
• RPM: 0 to 1500
• Clutch: 15 settings
• Weight: 2 ⅖ lbs

Recap

Given its consumer-grade design, it is extremely surprising that the Hilti SFD 2-a Hammer Drill includes an impact setting that is not always as effective as you might want.

Makita FD07R1 MAX CXT Drill Driver Kit

Best Brushless Hand Drill

The Makita FD07R1 MAX CXT might be the best middle-ground for those who want solid performance but are not looking for a truly professional-grade model. For instance, while this entry only comes with a 12V motor. It can still generate an impressive 280 lbs of torque– the most for a consumer-grade option.

However, this does not mean that the Makita FD07R1 MAX CXT is more difficult to use. This is thanks to a svelte build that is both lightweight and compact. Even better, you can fine-tune your drilling needs with a clutch that includes 18 different settings. Though, it can be tricky to prevent the brake from accidentally engaging the chuck.

Features

• Motor: Brushless
• Volts: 12V
• RPM: 0 to 450, 0 to 1500
• Clutch: 18 settings
• Weight: 2 ⅓ lbs

Recap

The Makita FD07R1 MAX CXT is the perfect homeowner option for the consumer who wants a little bit more power than the traditional DIY tool offers. However, it is not for professional use.

Makita XFD12R LXT Drill Driver Kit

Best All-Around Hand Drill

The Makita XFD12R LXT offers the best mix of features and specs without being weighed down by outright flaws. That said, it may not be ideal for everyone. For instance, this tool comes with a powerful 18V motor. The motor pushes an impressive 530 lbs of torque– the most for a model that does not feature an impact driver setting.

As if that were not enough, the Makita XFD12R LXT also features one of the fastest maximum speeds at 2000 rpm with the ability to gear down to 500 rpm. Even better, this tool also comes with a broad 21+1 clutch settings. Though, all of these specs can make it a bit difficult to control for the average homeowner.

Features

• Motor: Brushless
• Volts: 18V
• RPM: 0 to 500, 0 to 2,000
• Clutch: 21+1
• Weight: 3 ⅖ lbs

Recap

The Makita XFD12R LXT offers an excellent all-around model that provides plenty of power in all of the right places. However, it is a professional-grade tool and might be a bit tricky to handle for homeowners.

RIDGID TOOL COMPANY GIDDS2-3554589 Hammer Drill

Best Impact Driver Hand Drill

RIDGID is not the brand you would expect to make the best impact driver. Yet, the RIDGID TOOL COMPANY GIDDS2-3554589 Hammer Driver easily meets that standard. For starters, the driver has a stabilizing side handle. Also, the powerful 18V motor that generates an astounding 700 lbs of torque cannot be denied.

Of course, a maximum speed of 2100 rpm pairs with a bewildering 100 clutch settings. This makes the RIDGID TOOL COMPANY GIDDS2-3554589 Hammer Driver is impressive, to say the least. On the other hand, this power tool is a bit on the heavier side. You also need to get better batteries to truly take advantage of the impact driver setting.

Features

• Motor: Brushless
• Volts: 18V
• RPM: 0 to 500, 0 to 2100
• Clutch: 100 settings
• Weight: 4 ¼ lbs

Recap

You would not necessarily expect a consumer-grade model to include a hammer driver feature. The RIDGID TOOL COMPANY GIDDS2-3554589 Hammer Driver offers that and much more.

Ryobi P1815 ONE+ Drill Driver Kit

Best Cordless Hand Drill

The Ryobi P1815 ONE+ might be the best cordless drill reviewed. Thanks to a solid set of specs combined with the brand’s ONE+ battery that works with a whole lineup. However, the included battery with this entry is not the longest lasting when taking full advantage of the specs and features.

The Ryobi P1815 ONE+ comes with an 18V motor that delivers more than enough power. Thankfully, it does not make this option too heavy at 2 ¾ lbs. On top of that, this tool also comes with 24 clutch settings. It also sports a maximum speed of 1800 rpm, making it one of the best homeowner options as well.

Features

• Motor: Brushless
• Volts: 18V
• RPM: 0 to 600, 0 to 1,800
• Clutch: 24 settings
• Weight: 2 ⅔ lbs

Recap

For the homeowner or DIYer, the Ryobi P1815 ONE+ is a great high-end, consumer-grade option. It has plenty of power and features in a compact size– so long as you replace the included batteries.

Milwaukee 2801-22CT M18 Drill Driver Kit

Best 18V Hand Drill

The Milwaukee 2801-22CT M18 may not jump off of the page in any major area but neither does it lack any capability. As an 18-volt drill, this model provides plenty of driving and drilling power for any size job. It can also apply an impressive 500 lbs of torque for those heavy-duty tasks.

Even better, you have plenty of versatility with this 18-volt drill thanks to the inclusion of 18 different clutch settings. This way you can use just as much torque as you need. While not the fastest that we encountered, the Milwaukee 2801-22CT M18 is still one of the quicker 18-volt drills with a maximum speed of 1800 rpm.

Features

• Motor: Brushless
• Volts: 18V
• RPM: 0 to 500, 0 to 1,800
• Clutch: 18
• Weight: 3 ⅖ lbs

Recap

The Milwaukee 2801-22CT M18 Drill may not be the most capable, but it hits all of the marks in terms of specs. However,  you may want to replace the included battery.

Tacklife PCD01B Drill Kit

Best Budget Hand Drill

The Tacklife PCD01B Kit is in no way trying to compete with professional-grade tools. Instead, it offers an inexpensive model that further increases its value with a complete kit. However, whereas most kits only include a charger and a battery or two, this entry comes with bits for both drilling and driving.

It also does not hurt that the Tacklife PCD01B Kit is lightweight and compact for the average user. It also provides plenty of illumination with its built-in work light. However, this power tool is a bit on the weaker and slower side. It might not last as long as some of its competition due to a brushed motor.

Features

• 239 torque
• Motor: Brushed
• Volts: 12V
• RPM: 0 to 350, 0 to 1300
• Clutch: 19+1 settings
• Weight: Unk

Recap

The Tacklife PCD01B is a great option for the homeowner who needs a capable drill but is not looking to spend the money nor have the need for a more powerful, professional-grade model.

Buyer’s Guide

Motor

While motor power can be important for cordless drills, only professionals working with dense hardwoods or other materials really need to worry about that aspect. Instead, a more important factor to consider is whether a motor uses brushes or is brushless. This is because brushless motors are more durable and drain batteries slower.
Still, cordless drills with more power can drive into denser hardwoods.

Versatility

Most cordless drills see their use on wood projects or putting together an appliance or furniture. However, it can be a good idea to look for a model that can also drill into metal. On top of that, certain professional contractors need an impact driver with a side handle that allows for more powerful force and better control.

Ergonomics

This quality covers how easy it is to use cordless drills over longer periods. Ergonomics often center more on the overall weight of the tool than anything else. However, hand drills with a pistol-grip handle and rubber around the handle make using the tool for longer periods much easier– especially for hobbyists.

Kits

Given that cordless drills require battery packs, it only makes sense for most models to come in a kit. These kits usually include one or more batteries and also often include a charger. However, some cordless drills also come with a set of drill bits and even driver bits to offer additional value. That said, the quality of these kits varies drastically from one to another.

Target Market

There is no reason that any adult should not own a hand drill as you will eventually find a need for one before too long. That said, the average homeowner or even weekend warrior DIYer likely does not need to splurge the extra money getting a high-end, professional-grade model.

Common Terms

Volts

This is the standard “power” rating given to cordless drills. But volts alone do not necessarily tell the whole tale as to how powerful one model is compared to the next. Still, cordless drills with 18 or 20 volts tend to be more powerful than those with only 10 or 12-volt batteries. However, the type of motor can also play a factor.

RPM

RPM or rotations per minute tells you how quickly cordless drills spin the chuck. This gives a rough idea of how quickly you can work while using the tool. It is also worth remembering that different materials require different speeds. Softer metals and plastics requiring slower speeds than hardwoods or masonry.

Clutch

The clutch is the part that ultimately controls how much torque the tool applies when drilling. Though, most homeowners only need to know when to use a lot or a little bit of torque. When used in combination with variable speed settings, the proper clutch setting can prevent you from boring out a fastener.

Chuck

This is the part of a hand drill that holds the bit, whether the bit is used for drilling or driving, and is measured in inches. For the most part, drilling chucks are usually ⅜”. But, some drilling chucks come in ½” for larger bits to handle bigger jobs or even require a sleeved spline for impact drivers.

Guide Lights

Guide lights do not necessarily make using the tool more accurate, but they illuminate the workspace to make general tasks a bit easier. Unlike some other power tools, you often do not need guide lights to operate this tool. But, those working in dark, confined spaces will appreciate how much easier it is.

Hammer/Impact

These terms refer to the ability of a cordless drill to switch from traditional settings to one that uses sudden rotational force to strike the surface. This setting can be used to loosen frozen or over-tightened fasteners. It can even drive into extremely hard materials like concrete and other masonry.

FAQ’s

Do I Need a Hammer Drill?

If you are a homeowner or average consumer, chances are that you do not need to worry about a hand drill that also includes an impact hammer setting. In fact, even most professionals will not necessarily require an impact hammer setting for most of their jobs.

What Hand Drill to Buy for Metal?

The good news is that most hand drills can be used to drill into metal. The main thing to worry about is whether or not you have the proper drill bit. However, you want to make sure that the hand drill in question has a suitably lower speed setting. This prevents the drill bit from deforming or tearing out the metal.

What Are Good Hand Drill Kits?

Unfortunately, this is not an easy question to answer as kits usually include a battery and charger as well as a potential drill and driver bit set. The batteries often included with hand drill kits are rarely the best. This is true both in terms of longevity or Ah, and the drill and drive bits are often made out of softer metals.

Common Brands

Bosch

Bosch is one of the top-tier professional-grade power tool manufacturers with the most experience on our list. However, Bosch power tools tend to favor precision and control over power. This can make them a bit underwhelming for professional contractors who work on heavy-duty projects.

DEWALT

DEWALT is one of the more well-known and respected professional-grade power tool makers on the market. But, it waffles a bit within its class. While the company has plenty of experience, its acquisition by BLACK+DECKER saw an initial dip in quality that can lead to hit or miss products.

Makita

Makita is another well-respected professional-grade power tool manufacturer. It can trace its origin to just after WWII. The great thing about Makita hand drills is that they almost never lack for power. This is due to the company’s extensive history and specialization with electric motors.

Ryobi

Ryobi is a sneakily experienced power tool maker that can trace its origins back to just after WWII and provides one of the best consumer-grade lineups on the market. In fact, Ryobi often skirts the line between top-tier consumer-grade and full one mid-tier, making it a great value.

Milwaukee

Milwaukee is an experienced professional-grade power tool maker. It is one of the few American-made power tools that can compete with the best of them. That said, Milwaukee tends to be a bit more expensive than some of the competition without necessarily offering anything special.

Conclusion

The best hand drills differ depending on your particular needs. Still, they can generally be broken down into consumer-grade, professional-grade, and hammer drivers. The average consumer does not need to worry about the most power and should look for something that is ergonomic and easy to use.

Professionals, on the other hand, generally need plenty of power both in terms of the raw motor voltage and torque. This is especially for driving into hardwoods. While far less common, specialized contractors should check out the hammer drivers for boring into masonry without eating their bits.

With all of this information and these thorough breakdowns, you should be more than capable of finding the best hand drill for your needs.