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10 Best Hand Drills 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 2 Batteries and Charger Included (DCD771C2)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,141
Power Source
Speed and Torque
Battery Life and Type

Most important from
49389 reviews

Power Source
The brushless motor delivers impressive power and efficiency, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Speed and Torque
The variable speed trigger and two-speed settings provide excellent control for different applications.
Battery Life and Type
Long battery life allows completion of multiple projects on a single charge, ensuring uninterrupted work.
Weight and Ergonomics
Fits into tight spaces with ease and reduces fatigue during extended use, thanks to its lightweight design.
Additional Features
The adjustable 3-position LED light is a game-changer for working in dark areas, with a spotlight mode that lasts 20 minutes.

The DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit (DCD771C2) is a well-rounded hand-drill suitable for various applications, especially for users looking for portability and versatility. One of its main strengths is its cordless nature, powered by a 20V lithium-ion battery, which provides decent battery life and eliminates the hassle of dealing with cords. The kit includes two batteries and a charger, ensuring that you have backup power ready when needed.

The drill’s compact and lightweight design (3.64 pounds) makes it easy to handle and maneuver in tight spaces, which is a significant advantage for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals working in confined areas. The ergonomic handle further enhances comfort and control during usage. In terms of performance, the drill features a high-speed transmission with two speed settings (0-450 & 1,500 RPM), allowing for flexibility in fastening and drilling tasks.

The motor delivers 300 unit watts out (UWO) of power, sufficient for a wide range of applications. Its 1/2-inch single sleeve ratcheting chuck provides strong bit gripping, ensuring that bits stay securely in place during operation. However, there are a couple of drawbacks to consider. The 1.3Ah battery capacity may not be sufficient for extended heavy-duty tasks, requiring more frequent recharges. Additionally, while the drill offers a good balance of power and speed, it might not be suitable for extremely demanding applications requiring higher torque or prolonged usage. Despite these minor issues, the DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit is a reliable choice for most homeowners and professionals, offering a blend of portability, power, and ergonomic design.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,141
Power Source
Speed and Torque
Battery Life and Type

Most important from
49389 reviews

Power Source
The brushless motor delivers impressive power and efficiency, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Speed and Torque
The variable speed trigger and two-speed settings provide excellent control for different applications.
Battery Life and Type
Long battery life allows completion of multiple projects on a single charge, ensuring uninterrupted work.
Weight and Ergonomics
Fits into tight spaces with ease and reduces fatigue during extended use, thanks to its lightweight design.
Additional Features
The adjustable 3-position LED light is a game-changer for working in dark areas, with a spotlight mode that lasts 20 minutes.
#2

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver, 1/2 Inch, 2 Speed, XR 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger Included (DCD777D1)

Rating
10.0
Power Source
Speed and Torque
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
8237 reviews

Power Source
The brushless motor delivers great quality and longer charge retention.
Speed and Torque
Efficient and quick performance makes it a valuable tool for any task.
Weight and Ergonomics
Perfect balance and weight make it easy to handle, even for extended periods.
Additional Features
Durable and powerful, it's ideal for car work and detailing.

The DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver (DCD777D1) is a robust and versatile tool ideal for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. It features a powerful brushless motor that offers longer run time compared to brushed motors, which is a significant advantage for extensive projects. The compact and lightweight design (7.6 inches front to back and 5.06 pounds) makes it easy to handle and maneuver into tight spaces, enhancing its usability in various applications.

The ergonomic comfort grip handle ensures better balance and control, reducing user fatigue during prolonged use. One of its standout features is the LED light with a 20-second trigger release delay, providing increased visibility in dimly lit workspaces, which is a practical addition for any user working in less than ideal lighting conditions. The kit includes a 20V MAX XR 2.0Ah Lithium-Ion battery and charger, which ensures good battery life, though users should be mindful of the need to recharge during longer tasks.

With a maximum rotational speed of 1500 RPM and two-speed settings, it provides flexibility for different drilling needs. The maximum torque is 53.1 Newton Meters, which is ample for most common tasks. However, the 0.5-inch chuck size may limit its use with larger drill bits. Additionally, while its weight is manageable, some users may find it slightly heavier than other models in the same category. In summary, this DEWALT drill driver is a reliable choice for a wide range of drilling and driving tasks, combining power, convenience, and durability.

Rating
10.0
Power Source
Speed and Torque
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
8237 reviews

Power Source
The brushless motor delivers great quality and longer charge retention.
Speed and Torque
Efficient and quick performance makes it a valuable tool for any task.
Weight and Ergonomics
Perfect balance and weight make it easy to handle, even for extended periods.
Additional Features
Durable and powerful, it's ideal for car work and detailing.
#3

CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 1/2 inch, Battery and Charger Included (CMCD700C1)

Rating
9.8
Battery Life and Type

Most important from
5011 reviews

Battery Life and Type
The 1.5AH battery is sufficient, but having additional 3.5AH batteries ensures continuous use.

The CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill/Driver Kit is a versatile tool that caters well to a variety of drilling and driving tasks. It features a high-performance motor that delivers 280 unit watts out, making it suitable for both light and medium-duty applications. The 1/2 inch keyless chuck allows for quick and easy bit changes, enhancing convenience during use.

With a 2-speed gearbox offering speeds of 0-350 RPM and 0-1,500 RPM, you can choose the appropriate speed for different tasks, ensuring precision and efficiency. The included 20V MAX Lithium-ion battery provides ample runtime and is equipped with high-performance cells, while the charger promises a full charge in 60 minutes or less, reducing downtime significantly. Weighing 4.62 pounds, this drill is relatively lightweight and designed for comfort, although extended use might still lead to fatigue.

The built-in LED light is a useful addition, improving visibility in darker workspaces. Additionally, it is compatible with the Versatrack hang hook for easy storage and organization. The 3-year limited warranty adds peace of mind regarding its durability. On the downside, the battery capacity of 1.3 amp hours might not be sufficient for more intensive tasks, requiring more frequent recharges. Nevertheless, this drill kit stands out as a reliable choice for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts looking for a balance of power and convenience.

Rating
9.8
Battery Life and Type

Most important from
5011 reviews

Battery Life and Type
The 1.5AH battery is sufficient, but having additional 3.5AH batteries ensures continuous use.

Buying Guide for the Best Hand Drills

Choosing the right hand drill can make a significant difference in the ease and efficiency of your projects. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional, understanding the key specifications of hand drills will help you make an informed decision. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting a hand drill that best fits your needs.
Power SourceHand drills can be powered by electricity (corded) or batteries (cordless). Corded drills offer consistent power and are ideal for heavy-duty tasks, but they require access to an electrical outlet. Cordless drills provide greater mobility and convenience, making them suitable for a variety of tasks, but their battery life can limit usage time. Consider where and how often you'll be using the drill to determine which power source is best for you.
Chuck SizeThe chuck is the part of the drill that holds the drill bit. Common chuck sizes are 3/8 inch and 1/2 inch. A 3/8 inch chuck is suitable for most household tasks and light-duty work, while a 1/2 inch chuck can handle larger bits and is better for heavy-duty tasks. Choose a chuck size based on the type of projects you plan to undertake.
Speed and TorqueSpeed is measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), and torque is the twisting force the drill produces. Higher speeds are useful for drilling into softer materials, while higher torque is needed for tougher materials like metal or masonry. Some drills offer variable speed settings, allowing you to adjust the speed and torque based on the task. Consider the materials you'll be working with to determine the appropriate speed and torque requirements.
Battery Life and TypeFor cordless drills, battery life and type are crucial. Lithium-ion batteries are popular due to their long life and quick charging times. The battery's ampere-hour (Ah) rating indicates how long it will last on a single charge. Higher Ah ratings mean longer battery life. If you plan to use the drill for extended periods, look for a model with a high Ah rating and consider purchasing an extra battery for uninterrupted work.
Weight and ErgonomicsThe weight and design of the drill affect comfort and ease of use. Lighter drills are easier to handle, especially for extended periods, but may not be as powerful. Ergonomic designs with comfortable grips reduce strain and fatigue. If you'll be using the drill frequently or for long durations, prioritize a model that feels comfortable and balanced in your hand.
Additional FeaturesSome hand drills come with extra features like built-in LED lights, which illuminate the work area, or keyless chucks, which allow for quick and easy bit changes. Other features might include a hammer function for drilling into masonry or a clutch for controlling torque. Consider which additional features will enhance your drilling experience and make your tasks easier.

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