A cordless drill is one of the most useful tools any homeowner can own. Whether you’re assembling furniture, installing shelves, drilling into walls, or tackling larger renovation projects, a cordless drill makes DIY jobs faster and easier.
Modern cordless drills are powerful, portable, and versatile. Many models include multiple speed settings, adjustable torque, and rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that provide long-lasting performance.
For homeowners in the UK, choosing the right drill can make home repairs and improvements much more manageable.
In this guide, we look at some of the best cordless drills for DIY projects, what features to consider when buying one, and how to choose the right drill for your needs.
Why Every Homeowner Needs a Cordless Drill
A cordless drill is often the first power tool homeowners purchase, and for good reason. It is incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of household tasks.
Some common DIY uses include:
- Installing shelves or curtain rails
- Assembling flat-pack furniture
- Drilling holes in wood, plaster, or masonry
- Hanging pictures or mirrors
- Building garden furniture or decking
Compared to corded drills, cordless drills offer much greater flexibility because they do not require a power outlet. This makes them ideal for use around the home, in the garden, or even in loft spaces.
Key Features to Look for in a Cordless Drill
Before choosing a cordless drill, it’s important to understand a few key features that affect performance and usability.
Battery Power
Most cordless drills use lithium-ion batteries, which provide longer run times and recharge faster than older battery types.
Common battery voltages include:
- 12V – suitable for light DIY tasks
- 18V or 20V – ideal for most home improvement projects
Higher voltage usually means more power.
Torque
Torque refers to the drill’s rotational force. Higher torque allows the drill to drive larger screws or drill into tougher materials.
For general DIY work, look for drills with at least 40Nm of torque.
Speed Settings
Many cordless drills include two-speed settings:
- Low speed for driving screws
- High speed for drilling holes
Multiple speed settings provide better control for different types of projects.
Chuck Size
The chuck is the part of the drill that holds the drill bit.
Most DIY drills have a 10mm or 13mm chuck, which is suitable for most household tasks.
Best Cordless Drills for DIY Projects
Below are some highly rated cordless drills commonly available online and widely used for DIY projects.
1.
1/2 Inch, 2 Speed, XR 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger Included (DCD777D1)
The DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill is one of the most popular drills among homeowners and professionals.
Key Features
- Powerful 20V lithium-ion battery
- Compact and lightweight design
- Two-speed transmission
- Durable metal gearbox
This drill is ideal for homeowners who want a reliable and powerful tool for regular DIY work.
2.
Plus Home Tool Kit, 68 Piece (LDX120PK)
The BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Drill is a great budget-friendly option for beginners.
Key Features
- Lightweight design
- 11-position clutch for precise control
- Long-lasting battery
- Affordable price
This drill is perfect for light DIY projects such as assembling furniture and installing shelves.
3.
PS31-2A - 12-Volt, 3/8", Two Speed Driver, Cordless Drill Set - Includes Two Lithium Ion Batteries, 12V Charger, Screwdriver Bits and Soft Carrying Bag
Bosch is well known for producing high-quality power tools.
Key Features
- Strong build quality
- Ergonomic grip
- Efficient lithium-ion battery
- Excellent drilling performance
Bosch drills are reliable and suitable for homeowners who want professional-level performance.
4.
Makita tools are widely respected for their durability and performance.
Key Features
- High torque output
- Compact design
- Long battery life
- Fast charging system
Makita drills are a great option for homeowners planning larger DIY or renovation projects.
5.
Hyper Green, With 2 x 1.5 Ah Batteries
Ryobi’s One+ system is popular because the batteries work across many different tools.
Key Features
- Compatible with multiple Ryobi tools
- Powerful battery system
- Comfortable grip
- Good value for money
If you plan to expand your DIY toolkit, Ryobi’s system is a smart choice.
Cordless Drill Comparison
| Drill | Power | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| DEWALT 20V Max | High | Heavy DIY projects |
| BLACK+DECKER 20V | Medium | Beginner DIY |
| Bosch Drill Kit | High | Home improvement |
| Makita Drill Driver | High | Advanced DIY |
| Ryobi One+ | Medium | Expanding tool collections |
Accessories Every Drill Owner Should Have
To get the most from your cordless drill, you should also consider buying a few essential accessories.
Drill Bit Set
A good drill bit set allows you to drill into different materials such as wood, metal, and masonry.
Popular option: Bosch Multi-Purpose Drill Bit Set
Screwdriver Bit Set
Screwdriver bits allow your drill to drive screws quickly and efficiently.
Example: DEWALT Screwdriver Bit Set
Extra Batteries
Having a spare battery ensures you can keep working while the other battery charges.
Cordless Drill Safety Tips
Using power tools safely is extremely important.
Always follow these safety guidelines:
- Wear safety glasses when drilling
- Secure materials before drilling
- Use the correct drill bit for the material
- Avoid forcing the drill into hard surfaces
- Keep batteries fully charged
Proper safety practices help prevent accidents and extend the life of your tools.
DIY Projects You Can Do With a Cordless Drill
Once you own a cordless drill, you’ll find dozens of uses around the home.
Popular DIY projects include:
- Installing curtain rods
- Hanging shelves
- Building garden furniture
- Installing TV wall mounts
- Constructing decking
- Assembling flat-pack furniture
A cordless drill quickly becomes one of the most frequently used tools in any home.
How Much Should You Spend on a Cordless Drill?
Cordless drills come in a wide range of prices.
Typical price ranges:
- £40–£80 – entry-level drills for basic DIY
- £80–£150 – mid-range drills for most homeowners
- £150+ – professional-grade drills
For most homeowners, a mid-range cordless drill provides the best balance of power and affordability.
Final Thoughts
A cordless drill is one of the most valuable tools any homeowner can own. It allows you to complete a wide range of DIY projects, from simple repairs to major home improvements.
When choosing a cordless drill, focus on:
- Battery power
- Torque
- Speed settings
- Build quality
Investing in a reliable drill from a trusted brand such as DEWALT, Bosch, Makita, or Ryobi ensures you have a powerful and long-lasting tool for years to come.
With the right cordless drill and accessories, you’ll be ready to tackle almost any DIY project around your home.
