Finding the best drill for homeowners can be a complex decision, as it depends on various factors such as your usage, experience, and intended applications. To determine the best drill for your needs, it’s essential to consider important aspects and terminology related to drills. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- User Type: Understand your level of expertise. Are you a beginner, a DIY enthusiast, or an experienced contractor? Different drills are suitable for various skill levels.
- Drill Types: There are several types of drills, including corded drills, cordless drills, hammer drills, and impact drivers. Each serves specific purposes, so choosing the right type is crucial.
- Voltage: The voltage rating of a drill indicates its power. Higher voltage typically means more power. Homeowners often opt for drills in the 12V to 18V range, which offer a good balance between power and convenience.
- Rotations Per Minute (RPM): This metric determines how fast the drill bit spins. Higher RPM values are useful for drilling, while lower speeds are suitable for driving screws. Ensure the drill you choose has variable speed settings.
- Chuck Size: The chuck is the part of the drill that holds the bits. Different drills come with various chuck sizes, typically ranging from 3/8″ to 1/2″. The chuck size dictates the range of drill bits the drill can accommodate.
- Ergonomics: Consider the design, weight, and handle of the drill. A comfortable grip and a balanced weight are essential for extended use.
- Battery: If you opt for a cordless drill, check the battery type and capacity. Lithium-ion batteries are popular for their longevity and performance.
- Brand and Warranty: Reputable brands often offer better build quality and customer support. Don’t forget to check for warranties and return policies.
- Accessories: Many drills come with additional features and accessories like built-in LED lights, belt clips, and extra batteries. These can enhance the drill’s usability.
By taking these aspects into account, you’ll be better prepared to choose the best drill for your specific needs. Make sure to consider the types of projects you’ll be working on and any potential future uses for the drill when making your decision.
Best Homeowners Drill – Drill Terminology
Volts
Let’s delve into the world of volts and amps as they pertain to cordless tools. Think of volts as the capacity of your gas tank, while amps represent the amount of gas in that tank. Volts, in essence, signify the work potential and power stored in the battery, while amps indicate how long it can sustain that work. In theory, the larger these numbers, the more power you have, and the longer your tool can operate.
When you’re in the market for a cordless drill, you’ll come across different voltage ratings, such as 10.8V, 12V, 18V, 20V, and more. Amid this sea of numbers, understanding a couple of key principles about volts can clear up the confusion. Many voltage ratings are a matter of marketing, such as 10.8V and 12V, which are essentially identical because they have the same number of cells. Similarly, 18V and 20V are equivalent. The larger voltage ratings often apply to outdoor power equipment like lawnmowers and high-demand tools like cordless table saws and miter saws.
For homeowners, the voltages to focus on are 10.8/12V and 18/20V. These are the primary voltage ratings that suit typical homeowner needs. So, don’t get bogged down by the variety of figures, as these are the voltage ranges that matter most when you’re choosing a cordless drill.
Amps
As I mentioned earlier, let’s not forget the significance of amps. This is a crucial number to consider. A higher amp rating translates to a longer operating time for your drill before it requires recharging. If you’re considering 12V drills, it’s advisable to opt for a drill with a minimum 2Ah battery. For 18V drills, you should aim for a battery capacity of at least 4Ah.
Brushless
You might have noticed an increasing number of tools equipped with brushless motors. But what exactly are brushless motors? In simple terms, brushless motors lack the brushes that make direct contact with the copper motor windings.
These brushless motors come with numerous advantages, though some benefits might not be crucial for the average homeowner’s needs. While opting for a brushless motor is still a good choice, it’s not necessarily a make-or-break decision.
Brushless motors offer increased power as they don’t rely on brushes, which can consume power. They also tend to have a longer lifespan since they generate less heat. Moreover, they require less maintenance since there are no brushes to replace when they wear out.
Despite these advantages, homeowners may not fully experience all the benefits a brushless motor can provide.
Lithium
Lithium is the predominant battery chemistry used to power modern power tools. In the past, various types of batteries were employed, but technological advancements and cost reductions have led to the widespread adoption of lithium batteries by all manufacturers.
Although lithium is known for its inherent instability, it offers significant advantages over older battery chemistries. One prominent advantage is that older batteries would gradually lose power as they drained, while lithium batteries provide full workload capacity until they are nearly fully depleted.
Torque
Torque is a measurement that requires some caution since there is no universally standardized way to quantify it. In the realm of torque, it’s more of a “wild west” situation, with varying interpretations and methods of calculating torque figures. As a homeowner tackling small projects, you need not overly concern yourself with precise torque numbers.
Now, what exactly is torque? In simple terms, torque represents the power of the drill. A higher torque number indicates more power, allowing the drill to handle more demanding tasks, such as driving larger screws or drilling bigger holes. However, it’s important to note that a higher torque number may result in a shorter run time for the drill. Therefore, it’s advisable not to fixate on torque figures unless you anticipate the need for driving substantial screws or drilling large holes.
Clutch
The clutch is a feature located on the front of the drill, allowing users to adjust the torque level. Consider, for instance, you have a drill with 500 in-lbs of torque, and you intend to drive a 1.5″ screw into a soft wood like pine. If you set your drill to full power, you risk driving the screw too forcefully and potentially damaging your work.
In contrast, by configuring the clutch setting (usually in the range of 1-20) to the appropriate number, you can ensure that when the drill reaches that torque threshold, the clutch mechanism will engage. This prevents the drill from over-engaging and damaging your project. The clutch is particularly useful for more delicate and precise tasks.
While a clutch isn’t a mandatory feature for a drill, it significantly eases the work process. If your drill lacks a clutch, you will need to exercise more caution and pay closer attention to prevent over-driving screws or damaging your projects.
Speed
The speed of the drill determines the rate at which the drill head spins. Typically, drills come with two-speed settings, often denoted as 1 (low speed) and 2 (high speed). It’s important to note that higher rotation speed translates to lower torque, while slower rotation provides greater torque.
The choice between these speed settings depends on the specific task at hand. When high torque isn’t necessary, you can opt for the faster, high-speed setting (2). As a homeowner, most of your drilling and screwing tasks won’t typically require high torque, often involving smaller holes or fastening screws.
Hammer Drill
As you begin your shopping journey, you may come across two drills that seem nearly identical, with the only noticeable difference being the price tag. Upon closer inspection, you’ll notice that one of them is labeled as a “Hammer Drill.” But what exactly is a hammer drill?
A hammer drill is specifically designed for drilling into concrete. It features a hammering mechanism within the tool’s head, allowing it to effectively penetrate concrete surfaces.
If your drilling needs don’t involve concrete, there’s no need to invest in a hammer drill. These tools are typically pricier and heavier, making them unnecessary for most general purposes.
Impact Driver
Impact drivers are often confused with regular drills, as they share a similar appearance and price range. However, they serve different purposes.
In simple terms, an impact driver is primarily designed for fastening applications, particularly for screws. Due to its unique design focused on efficient screwing, an impact driver can be quite loud. While it can be used for drilling holes to some extent, it’s not the ideal tool for that purpose and is not recommended.
Conversely, a drill is specifically designed for drilling as well as fastening tasks.
So, when might you opt for an impact driver? It’s commonly favored by various tradespeople who require fastening more than drilling. For example, framers using drywall screws or HVAC professionals working on duct installations would benefit from using an impact driver.
As a homeowner, it’s typically more practical to have the versatility for both drilling and fastening, which a regular drill provides.
Drill/Driver
What you’re looking for is a drill/driver. This versatile tool allows you to both drill holes and drive fasteners, like screws. In essence, a drill/driver offers more versatility compared to an impact driver.
When you’re in the market for a tool, keep an eye out for one labeled as a drill/driver. You don’t need to limit your search to a drill that solely says “drill.”
Items to Consider when Buying a Drill
Now that you’re well-versed in the terminology of the drill world, there are a few important considerations before you make your drill purchase. I understand you’re seeking the best drill for homeowners, but the ideal choice can vary from person to person.
Just because your neighbor uses brand “A,” it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right fit for you. You need to address two critical questions:
Intended Use: Reflect on what you’ll primarily use this drill for. Is it limited to occasional tasks like hanging a picture or installing curtain rods? In such cases, an expensive or high-powered drill is unnecessary, as it might spend most of its life on a shelf. A lightweight, less powerful option can be more practical.
However, if you foresee projects like deck building, fence installation, or more demanding DIY tasks, then additional power is essential. Such homeowner applications may require driving larger fasteners and drilling larger holes. Power-hungry applications like hole sawing will necessitate a robust drill.
Honesty is key; consider your real drilling needs, and identify your user type. This can save you money, time, and potential frustration in the long run.
Future Purchases: Think about the upcoming projects you might undertake. You could be in need of a drill today, but perhaps you plan to embark on more ambitious endeavors, such as deck construction or other projects. If you intend to explore additional projects and learn new skills down the road, it’s crucial to evaluate the full range of tools offered by the manufacturer.
While there are many excellent drills available, consider what other tools are available in the manufacturer’s lineup. For example, if you foresee wanting a cordless circular saw in the near future, you should take this into account. These are the factors you need to weigh before committing to a particular line of tools. If you purchase a drill now, you’re essentially committing to that line of tools, as it’s not ideal to juggle two different battery platforms.
It’s challenging to predict what you’ll be doing tomorrow, let alone in three years. However, some individuals are aware of their desire to expand their collection of tools. If this is the case for you, then it’s vital to consider more than just the drill and explore the other tools available in the manufacturer’s ecosystem.
Power Tool Manufacturers
There is a multitude of manufacturers in the market, and it can be overwhelming to figure out the best ones for your needs. You might wonder if there are dedicated homeowner drill brands and what about the professional tools. If you’re new to the power tool world, the variety of brands can be confusing. Here’s a quick overview of some manufacturers you may come across online or at your local home center.
I’ve categorized these into two groups: professional and homeowner brands. Within each category, I’ve identified top-tier brands as well as the next level of options. However, it’s essential to note that these tiers shouldn’t be the sole factor affecting your decision. Some brands cater to different markets, and you might find professionals using homeowner brands and vice versa.
Professional Manufacturers
Professional Level – Tier 1 – Bosch, Hilti, Metabo
Professional Level – Tier 2 -Dewalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Ridgid
Home Manufacturers
Homeowner Level – Tier 1 -Ryobi, Kobalt
Homeowner level – Tier 2 -Black & Decker
What Should You Go With
Just when you thought all the decisions were behind you, there’s one more to consider. Now, I’ll share my opinion on the matter.
Corded vs. Cordless In my view, cordless is the way to go. While it’s true that you need to keep an eye on battery life and may worry about the battery running out halfway through a job, Lithium-Ion technology has made significant advancements. With this technology, the battery can sit on the shelf for months without losing its charge.
The convenience of working without a cord is a significant advantage. Cordless tools have made tremendous progress over the years. They are both powerful and compact, and their battery life is impressive.
In my opinion, cordless is the way to go.
If you’re only in the market for a drill, consider the 12V option. Modern 12V drills have made significant advancements and are quite powerful, all without the weight and price tag of an 18V drill.
However, if you plan to expand your toolkit and add saws, impacts, or other tools, it’s a good idea to opt for an 18V tool.
Each of these tools comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, making it crucial to have a clear understanding of your intended use for these tools around your home.
DIY vs Professional
If you’re in the market for just a drill without any plans to expand, consider going with a professional brand since they are the sole providers of 12V tools.
For those looking to expand their toolkit, either option will suffice. If you’re more of an occasional weekend warrior, a homeowners brand is a budget-friendly choice that doesn’t require all the protection and features of a professional tool, which are designed for heavy-duty job site conditions.
However, if you’re going all-in and taking on hardcore projects, investing in a professional brand is advisable. While they come at a higher cost, they offer advanced features and robust power suitable for the demanding work you’ll be tackling. The distinction between professional and homeowners brands becomes more evident in such scenarios.
Buy Online or Store
I recommend comparing prices and looking for the best value for your money. One advantage of shopping at a home center is that you can physically handle the tool and often even test it at demo stations.
If you already know the specific tool you want, you might find better deals online. Personally, I often check Amazon for various tools.
My Recommendations
Best Homeowners Drill – Best All Around Drill
Bosch 12V – Bosch is typically considered a professional brand, but their 12V line of tools is competitively priced compared to many other brands. Although 12V may not seem very powerful, these tools offer impressive performance and extended run time. They strike a great balance between performance and cost, making them a well-rounded choice.
Best Homeowners Drill – Best 18V Drill
Perhaps you’re looking for a professional-grade drill with the flexibility to expand into a range of portable and powerful tools. In that case, you have several excellent options to choose from. My top three favorites and recommendations are:
- Bosch
- Milwaukee
- Makita
While Dewalt is also a reputable brand, they may lag a bit in releasing new tools, and their product line is somewhat limited.
When it comes to choosing between a compact and full-size drill, these top three brands offer both options within their 18V lineup. If you don’t anticipate heavy-duty tasks like mixing concrete or drilling large holes, the compact drills are fantastic choices. Some of them even come close in size to 12V drills.
Best Homeowners Drill – Best Budget Drill
My top recommendation is Ryobi, which is often underrated but offers the perfect solution for homeowners, and here’s why:
- Quality Tools: Ryobi tools are of high quality. While they may not be designed for professionals, they are robust and well-built. Many contractors use them because they hold up well and are not cheaply made.
- Extensive Tool Line: Ryobi boasts one of the most extensive 18V tool lineups, making it easy to expand your collection down the road. They offer a wide range of homeowner-friendly tools. For example, I personally use their inflator, portable fan, and even their innovative garage door opener. What sets Ryobi apart is their commitment to innovation and continuously releasing new tools.
- Affordable Pricing: Ryobi tools are reasonably priced. They provide high-quality tools without overcharging customers. Furthermore, most of their tools are available as “bare tools,” meaning you can purchase just the tool without the batteries. This is a cost-effective option if you already have a couple of Ryobi batteries.
Overall, Ryobi stands out as the best choice for homeowners. They offer quality tools, a vast selection, and reasonable pricing, making them a fantastic option for homeowners like yourself.
When it comes to selecting the perfect drill for homeowners, there are various factors to take into account. Invest some time in research, and you’ll ultimately make a satisfying purchase.