How to Choose the Right Cordless Drill for Any Project

A good cordless drill is indispensable for almost any project in and around the home. Whether you're assembling a cabinet, hanging a shelf, or building a patio cover, the right tool makes the job easier. But the range of options is vast, and the specifications can be confusing. What voltage do you need? Is a brushless motor worth the extra cost?

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I'm here to help you see past the marketing jargon. In this article, we'll provide practical guidance for choosing a cordless drill that fits your projects, without you paying for features you won't use.

What to Look for When Buying a Cordless Drill

Before we get to the product recommendations, it's helpful to understand a few key specifications. This will help you make an informed decision.

1. Power: Voltage (V) and Torque (Nm)

The power of a cordless drill is primarily determined by two values: voltage and torque.

• Voltage (V): This indicates the battery's power and is an indicator of the machine's overall strength. For light-duty screwdriving and drilling in soft materials, 12V is often sufficient. An 18V cordless drill is the most popular choice for the all-around DIYer, powerful enough for most jobs. Drills of 24V or higher are typically aimed at the professional-grade cordless drill market for heavy-duty applications.
• Torque (Nm): Torque, expressed in Newton-metres, represents the rotational force. Higher torque means more power to drive screws into hard materials or drill large-diameter holes. Many drills have adjustable torque settings (a clutch) to prevent you from driving screws too deep or damaging the material.

2. Motor: Brushed or Brushless?

Traditional cordless drills have a motor with carbon brushes. These wear out over time and create friction, which leads to energy loss. A brushless cordless drill does not have this disadvantage. These motors are more efficient, more powerful, more compact, and have a longer lifespan. Although the initial purchase price is often slightly higher, it can be a wise investment for regular use.

3. Battery and Charger

Pay close attention to whether you are buying a complete kit. A cordless drill with a battery and charger is ready to use right out of the box. Many brands also offer 'bare tool' versions, which is convenient if you already own batteries of the same brand and voltage. A battery's capacity is expressed in Ampere-hours (Ah). A higher Ah value means a longer runtime per charge.

Recommended Cordless Drills

Based on specifications, functionality, and included accessories, we have rounded up some popular choices for different users.

POWERPLUS Compact 4-in-1 12V Screwdriver

Why it stands out: This machine is more than a simple cordless drill/driver. Thanks to the four included attachments, you can also drive screws and drill in corners and along edges—places a standard drill can't reach.

• Pros:
  • Extremely versatile thanks to its 4-in-1 functionality.
  • Compact and lightweight, ideal for tight spaces.
  • Comes as a complete kit with a battery, charger, and storage case.
  • 18 torque settings for precise screwdriving.
• Who it's for: The ideal machine for home use, such as assembling furniture, hanging decorations, and light drilling tasks in wood or plastic.

View the POWERPLUS 4-in-1 on Joybuy.nl

Greenworks 24V Brushless Cordless Drill

Why it stands out: This Greenworks machine combines a powerful brushless motor with a 24V battery platform. A unique feature is the included 2.0Ah USB-C battery, which can also function as a 12,000 mAh power bank to charge your phone, for example.

• Pros:
  • Efficient and durable brushless motor.
  • 45 Nm of torque for demanding screwdriving and drilling tasks.
  • Variable speed and two gears for optimal control.
  • The battery doubles as a power bank with a USB-C port.
• Who it's for: The ambitious DIYer who wants a powerful and efficient machine for regular use and appreciates the added functionality of the battery.

View the Greenworks 24V on Joybuy.nl

Metabo BS 18 L Cordless Drill

Why it stands out: Metabo is known for its robust tools, and this 18V cordless drill is no exception. With a powerful 60 Nm of torque and supplied with two batteries and a sturdy metaBOX case, this is a kit focused on performance and durability.

• Pros:
  • Very high torque (60 Nm) for heavy-duty applications.
  • Comes with two 18V batteries, so you can keep working.
  • Overload protection safeguards the motor.
  • Robust metaBOX for transport and storage.
• Who it's for: The serious hobbyist or semi-pro looking for a reliable and powerful all-rounder for renovation or construction projects.

View the Metabo BS 18 L on Joybuy.nl

Bosch IXO 7 Flexi Set Cordless Screwdriver

Why it stands out: The Bosch IXO is an icon in the world of compact screwdrivers. This seventh generation is an extremely lightweight cordless drill (only 320 grams) that is surprisingly powerful for its size. Its compatibility with various IXO Collection attachments makes it multifunctional.

• Pros:
  • Extremely compact and lightweight for effortless work.
  • 360° LED light ring for a shadow-free view of the workpiece.
  • According to Bosch, the motor has 20% more torque than its predecessor.
  • Expandable with attachments for cutting, corkscrewing, and more.
• Who it's for: Perfect for anyone who needs a handy and quick tool for all screwdriving jobs around the house where a large drill would be cumbersome.

View the Bosch IXO 7 on Joybuy.nl

Already Own a Drill but Need a New Battery?

A common problem is a battery that underperforms after years of loyal service. Or perhaps you want a second battery to keep working without interruption. Many brands use a battery system where one type of battery fits multiple types of tools. If you already have a drill but need a replacement or extra battery, you don't always have to buy a whole new kit.

→ Check out our range of individual batteries for cordless drills here.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right cordless drill for me?

The right choice depends entirely on your projects. For assembling furniture and light-duty screwdriving, a compact 12V cordless drill/driver or a light screwdriver like the Bosch IXO is ideal. For drilling into wood and metal or for larger construction projects, an 18V cordless drill with higher torque (40 Nm or more) is a better all-around choice.

What is the difference between a cordless drill and a cordless drill/driver?

The terms are often used interchangeably. A cordless drill/driver is designed for both screwdriving and drilling and usually has an adjustable clutch and multiple speed settings. A pure cordless screwdriver is lighter, less powerful, and primarily intended for screwdriving. Most products sold as 'cordless drills' are, in fact, cordless drill/drivers.

Is a cordless drill deal always a good value?

A cordless drill deal can be tempting, but pay close attention to what you're getting. Check if it's a complete kit with a battery and charger. Sometimes it's a 'bare tool' model or a discontinued model with outdated battery technology. Always compare the specifications with your needs to determine if the offer is actually a good deal for you.