Cordless Drills Buying Guides
There are hundreds of cordless drills to choose from. Finding the one that's best for you is a bit like finding a needle in a haystack. But anyone can become a savvy drill shopper if take just a few minutes to arm yourself with some key facts. You can select a great-performing drill for a reasonable (and sometimes lower than reasonable) price. So roll up your sleeves and lets get started...
Step 1 - What Voltage Do You Need?
The most popular voltage categories are 12V, 14.4V, and 18V. You should select the voltage level that best matches your user profile. To simplify things, we recommend the following:
| User |
Min Volt |
Max Volt |
Projects |
| Renter |
9.6V |
12V |
- Drill holes and drive screws in wood
- Install blinds and curtain rods
- Hang pictures and light fixtures
- Assemble furniture and appliances
|
| Homeowner |
12V |
14.4V |
- Perform general home maintenance
- Drill holes, drive screws in wood
- Drill holes in metal
- Weekend DIY projects
|
| DIYer |
14.4V |
18V |
- Serious DIY projects
- Home remodeling and deck building
- Wood-working and furniture building
- Uses large spade bits and hole saws
- Drives large lag bolts and fasteners
|
| Professional |
18V |
24V |
- General trades
- Plumbers, electricians, carpenters
- Heavy duty drilling and fastening
- Durability & performance is critical
- Tough jobsite conditions
|
Step 2 - How Much Do You Want to Spend?
Cordless drills can run anywhere from $50 to $450, with average prices as follows:
| |
12V Drill |
14.4V Drill |
18V Drill |
Hammer Drill |
| Avg Price |
$130 |
$180 |
$210 |
$280 |
As you can see, there's a significant price jump from 12 volts to 14.4 volts. If you're a homeowner that really can't afford the $180 range, it's perfectly fine to select something in the 12V class.
Step 3 - What Weight is Best for You?
Drills can weigh less than 2 pounds, or more than 7 pounds. Try holding a half gallon of milk over your head, like you're installing curtain rods. It weighs about the same as a 14.4V drill.
The average drill weights are as follows:
| |
12V Drill |
14.4V Drill |
18V Drill |
Hammer Drill |
| Avg Weight |
3.4 lbs |
4.6 lbs |
5.1 lbs |
5.4 lbs |
Step 4 - Read the Buyer's Guide.
Now that you have an initial idea of which voltage, price, and weight-class is best for you, learn more details about your class of drill in one of the following guides...
12V Buying Guide
14.4V Buying Guide
18V Buying Guide
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