What Drill to Buy: A Practical Guide for 2026
Discover the best drill to buy with practical, entertaining guidance. Compare cordless vs corded, hammer vs rotary, and budget vs premium options for 2026.
Choosing what drill to buy comes down to versatility, comfort, and future-proofing your toolkit. For most DIYers, a versatile cordless drill kit with at least an 18V platform, a 3/8-inch chuck, and a hammer setting delivers the best balance of power and ease. With the right bits and a spare battery, you’re ready for wood, metal, and small masonry tasks without frequent replacements.
Why this matters when you’re figuring out what drill to buy
If you’re staring at a wall of cordless drills and wondering which one will actually help you finish projects, you’re not alone. According to Drill Bits Pro, the right drill is less about the loudest motor and more about balance, ergonomics, and system compatibility. The Drill Bits Pro team found that DIYers who choose a modular, battery-powered platform tend to complete more projects with fewer tool switches and less fatigue. A practical drill choice reduces wasted time on bit changes, recharges, and setup, letting you focus on the task at hand. In short: start with a flexible, repeatable system, then add specialty tools as needed.
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Versatile cordless drills win for most home projects, but tailor to your primary tasks.
For most DIYers, a cordless drill kit with a hammer function covers wood, metal, and basic masonry well. If masonry work is a staple, consider adding a dedicated SDS-Plus or rotary hammer. Drill Bits Pro recommends starting with a capable 18V cordless system and evolving your kit as needed.
Products
Compact Cordless Drill Pro 18V
Premium • $100-180
All-Purpose Hammer Drill 20V
Standard • $120-240
Budget Corded Drill 6-8A
Budget • $40-90
Heavy-Duty SDS-Plus Drill
Premium • $300-600
Compact Rotary Hammer 18V
Midrange • $180-320
Ranking
- 1
Best Overall: Compact Cordless Drill Pro 18V9.2/10
Top balance of power, portability, and expandability makes it the go-to all-rounder for most projects.
- 2
Best Value: All-Purpose Hammer Drill 20V8.8/10
Solid performance at a mid-range price, ideal for masonry and light-duty metalwork.
- 3
Best Budget Pick: Budget Corded Drill 6-8A8/10
Uncomplicated, dependable option for occasional drilling with no battery concerns.
- 4
Best for Masonry: SDS-Plus Drill7.8/10
Specialized performance shines on concrete and brick, with long-term bit efficiency.
- 5
Best for Enthusiasts: Compact Rotary Hammer7.5/10
Premium features and versatility, best for frequent masonry tasks and tiled surfaces.
Got Questions?
What factors define the best drill for most DIY tasks?
For most projects, look for a balanced weight, comfortable grip, a versatile chuck (3/8 inch is standard), and a capable hammer setting. Battery life and system compatibility matter more than peak RPM alone.
For most DIY tasks, pick a balanced drill with a comfortable grip, a standard chuck, and a reliable hammer setting. Battery life and system compatibility matter more than raw speed.
Is a cordless drill always better than a corded one?
Cordless drills win for portability and convenience, especially for overhead or outdoor projects. Corded drills offer steady power for continuous drilling and don’t rely on battery cycles. Your choice depends on where you work and how long you drill at a time.
Cordless is great for portability; corded is steady power for long tasks. Pick based on your typical workspace and run time.
What’s the difference between a hammer drill and an impact driver?
A hammer drill uses a pounding action to drill into masonry, while an impact driver specializes in driving fasteners with high torque. They’re complementary tools—use a hammer drill for holes in concrete and an impact driver for bolts and screws.
A hammer drill bores into concrete; an impact driver drives screws and bolts with high torque. They’re different jobs in one toolkit.
What battery chemistry should I look for in 2026?
Lithium-ion batteries provide good energy density and weight. Look for 18V platforms with brushless motors and smart charging to maximize runtime and lifespan. Avoid older Ni-Cd tech if possible.
Go with modern lithium-ion 18V systems for better run time and longer life. Brushless motors improve efficiency.
Do I need SDS for common masonry tasks?
SDS drill bits and chisels are designed for heavy masonry work. If you expect frequent drilling into concrete or brick, an SDS-ready drill will save you time and bit wear.
If you drill a lot into concrete, an SDS setup helps. For light brick work, a standard drill can be enough with proper bits.
How do I choose the right chuck size and bit set?
A 3/8-inch chuck is the standard for most home tasks and accepts a wide range of bits. For larger pilot holes or heavy drilling, consider a 1/2-inch chuck. Always pair your drill with a basic bit set that covers wood, metal, and masonry.
Start with a 3/8-inch chuck; go 1/2-inch for bigger projects. Have wood, metal, and masonry bits in your kit.
Top Takeaways
- Choose a versatile cordless platform as your core tool
- Prioritize ergonomics and battery compatibility
- Match hammer function to masonry workload
- Budget for a spare battery and a decent chuck size
- Test weight and balance in-store before buying