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10 Best Makita Cordless Drills 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Makita XPH12R 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/2" Hammer Driver-Drill Kit (2.0Ah),

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,263
Battery Capacity (Ah)
Chuck Size
Torque

Most important from
94 reviews

Battery Capacity (Ah)
The 2 amp/hr battery lasted approximately 45-60 minutes, and the fast charge time ensured minimal downtime.
Chuck Size
The drill's chuck ran true, making it suitable for precise tasks like cabinet work.
Torque
Driving 3" deck screws was generally no problem, and the hammer drill mode handled tougher tasks with ease.
Speed Settings
Switching between modes and using the forward-reverse slide switch was smooth and trouble-free.
Weight
The drill is significantly lighter and smaller than older models, yet performs equally well.
Additional Features
Makita tools are reliable and last a long time, making them a great investment for quality and durability.

The Makita XPH12R 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless Hammer Driver-Drill Kit is a versatile tool designed for both drilling and hammer applications. It features a variable 2-speed design allowing for different RPM and BPM settings, making it suitable for a range of tasks. The brushless motor not only delivers high torque of 530 in.lbs but also ensures efficient energy use, extending battery life significantly.

This drill comes with two 2.0Ah Lithium-Ion batteries, providing ample power for most projects, although professionals might seek higher capacity batteries for more demanding jobs. One standout feature is its compact and lightweight design, weighing just 3.6 pounds, which enhances ergonomics and reduces fatigue during prolonged use. The tool is equipped with a 1/2-inch chuck size, catering to standard drill bits and attachments.

Additionally, the included rapid optimum charger is a notable advantage, ensuring minimal downtime between charges. The drill's robust build and performance make it suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for a reliable, mid-range cordless drill. The 3-year warranty on the tool, battery, and charger offers peace of mind. While it may not be the top choice for heavy-duty industrial use, it is a solid option for general home improvement and light professional work.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,263
Battery Capacity (Ah)
Chuck Size
Torque

Most important from
94 reviews

Battery Capacity (Ah)
The 2 amp/hr battery lasted approximately 45-60 minutes, and the fast charge time ensured minimal downtime.
Chuck Size
The drill's chuck ran true, making it suitable for precise tasks like cabinet work.
Torque
Driving 3" deck screws was generally no problem, and the hammer drill mode handled tougher tasks with ease.
Speed Settings
Switching between modes and using the forward-reverse slide switch was smooth and trouble-free.
Weight
The drill is significantly lighter and smaller than older models, yet performs equally well.
Additional Features
Makita tools are reliable and last a long time, making them a great investment for quality and durability.
#2

Makita XAD03PT 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 1/2" Right Angle Drill Kit (5.0Ah)

Rating
9.1
Torque
Weight
Ergonomics

Most important from
114 reviews

Torque
The triple spur gear setup generates more torque, resulting in less strain on the motor.
Weight
The extra length of the Makita offers more leverage for drilling and countering binds, aiding in control despite its weight.
Ergonomics
It's easier to use than a hole hawg and doesn't jerk you around as much.
Additional Features
The Makita quickly reduces power and sometimes the manual clutch kicks in, making binding smoother and much more tolerable.

The Makita XAD03PT 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 1/2" Right Angle Drill Kit is a powerful tool designed for heavy-duty drilling tasks. It operates on two 18V LXT batteries which combine to provide 36V of power, resulting in excellent performance and longer run time. With a maximum rotational speed of 1400 RPM and torque of 53 Newton Meters, it can handle large holes in wood and metal effectively.

The included brushless motor enhances efficiency and durability, while the automatic speed change technology optimizes performance during drilling tasks. The drill also features two speed settings for versatility in different applications. The kit includes two 5.0Ah batteries, a dual-port charger, and various accessories, making it a comprehensive package for professional users.

The weight of the drill, at 29 pounds, might be a concern for prolonged use, especially in tight spaces. The ergonomics, while satisfactory, could be challenging due to its right angle design and weight. The 1/2 inch chuck size is standard and suitable for most tasks, but the overall dimensions of the tool make it less portable. Users who need a high-torque, reliable drill for demanding jobs will find this kit beneficial, but it may not be the best choice for those seeking a lightweight, compact option.

Rating
9.1
Torque
Weight
Ergonomics

Most important from
114 reviews

Torque
The triple spur gear setup generates more torque, resulting in less strain on the motor.
Weight
The extra length of the Makita offers more leverage for drilling and countering binds, aiding in control despite its weight.
Ergonomics
It's easier to use than a hole hawg and doesn't jerk you around as much.
Additional Features
The Makita quickly reduces power and sometimes the manual clutch kicks in, making binding smoother and much more tolerable.
#3

Makita XT505 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Cordless 5-Pc. Combo Kit (3.0Ah)

Rating
9.1
Battery Capacity (Ah)

Most important from
881 reviews

Battery Capacity (Ah)
Battery life is excellent for the drill and impact driver, though slightly shorter for the saws; larger batteries can be purchased for extended projects.

The Makita XT505 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Cordless 5-Pc. Combo Kit, equipped with 18V 3.0Ah batteries, offers a comprehensive set of tools for varied tasks. The hammer driver-drill features a 1/2” chuck size and delivers a respectable 480 in.lbs. of max torque, making it suitable for most drilling and driving applications. The impact driver impresses with 1,460 in.lbs. of torque, ideal for tougher fastening jobs. Both tools offer variable speed settings, with the driver-drill ranging from 0-600 & 0-1,900 RPM and the impact driver from 0-2,900 RPM & 0-3,500 IPM, providing flexibility for different tasks.

The reciprocating saw operates at 0-2,800 strokes per minute with a 1-1/4” stroke, offering robust cutting performance, though its weight might be a consideration for extended use at 8.3 lbs. including the battery. The kit's ergonomics are commendable, with tools designed to be lightweight and manageable; the hammer driver-drill and impact driver weigh 3.4 lbs. and 2.8 lbs. respectively with the battery, ensuring less fatigue during prolonged use. Additional features include a compact circular saw and a Xenon flashlight, enhancing the versatility of the kit.

The inclusion of two batteries and a rapid charger supports continuous operation without significant downtime. Customer reviews are notably positive, reflecting satisfaction with performance and reliability. However, the weight of the entire kit at 32 pounds might be cumbersome for some users. The Makita XT505 is best suited for those seeking a reliable and versatile cordless tool set, particularly useful for DIY enthusiasts and professionals needing a range of tools for different projects.

Rating
9.1
Battery Capacity (Ah)

Most important from
881 reviews

Battery Capacity (Ah)
Battery life is excellent for the drill and impact driver, though slightly shorter for the saws; larger batteries can be purchased for extended projects.

Buying Guide for the Best Makita Cordless Drills

Choosing the right cordless drill can make a significant difference in your DIY projects or professional work. Makita cordless drills are known for their reliability and performance, but it's important to understand the key specifications to ensure you pick the best fit for your needs. Here are the main specs to consider and how they can guide your decision.
Battery VoltageBattery voltage determines the power of the drill. Higher voltage means more power, which is useful for heavy-duty tasks. Common voltages are 12V, 18V, and 20V. For light tasks like assembling furniture or drilling into soft materials, a 12V drill is sufficient. For more demanding tasks like drilling into masonry or metal, consider an 18V or 20V drill.
Battery Capacity (Ah)Battery capacity, measured in ampere-hours (Ah), indicates how long the battery will last on a single charge. Higher Ah means longer runtime. Batteries typically range from 1.5Ah to 5Ah. If you plan to use the drill for extended periods or on larger projects, opt for a higher capacity battery. For occasional use, a lower capacity battery will suffice.
Chuck SizeThe chuck size determines the maximum diameter of the drill bit that can be used. Common sizes are 3/8 inch and 1/2 inch. A 3/8 inch chuck is suitable for most household tasks, while a 1/2 inch chuck is better for heavy-duty applications. Choose based on the types of projects you plan to undertake.
TorqueTorque is the twisting force that the drill can apply. Higher torque is necessary for driving screws into tough materials. Drills often have adjustable torque settings. For general use, moderate torque is sufficient. For tasks requiring more force, such as driving long screws into hardwood, higher torque settings are beneficial.
Speed SettingsSpeed settings refer to the RPM (revolutions per minute) the drill can achieve. Variable speed settings allow for greater control. Lower speeds are better for driving screws, while higher speeds are ideal for drilling holes. Consider a drill with multiple speed settings if you need versatility for different tasks.
WeightThe weight of the drill affects how comfortable it is to use, especially for extended periods. Lighter drills are easier to handle and reduce fatigue. If you need a drill for overhead work or prolonged use, opt for a lighter model. Heavier drills may offer more power but can be tiring to use.
ErgonomicsErgonomics refers to the design and comfort of the drill. Features like a comfortable grip, balanced weight distribution, and easy-to-reach controls can make a big difference in usability. If you plan to use the drill frequently, look for ergonomic designs that reduce strain and improve comfort.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features such as LED lights, brushless motors, and built-in levels can enhance the functionality of the drill. LED lights help illuminate the work area, brushless motors offer better efficiency and longevity, and built-in levels ensure accurate drilling. Consider which features are important for your specific needs.

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