Are you tired of the hassle of a tangled mess of drill cords? Imagine a world where your DIY tasks or professional projects run seamlessly without constant tripping and unplugging. Enter the realm of cordless drills – your ultimate solution for efficient and flexible power tools.
Cordless drills in the UK have transformed significantly, offering more power, longer battery life, and ergonomic designs that make any drilling job a breeze. There’s a drill for every need, from lightweight models perfect for home use to robust versions crafted for the construction site. The convenience of not being tethered to a plug socket means you can work anywhere, anytime.
Think about the freedom of effortlessly hanging shelves, assembling furniture, or undertaking extensive renovations without interruption. A high-quality cordless drill turns these tasks into simple, quick, and satisfying projects. It’s not just a tool; it’s your partner in making home improvement dreams come true.
Ready to take your DIY or professional projects to the next level? Browse our top picks for the best cordless drills available in the UK today and find your perfect match. Don’t let another project be bogged down by inferior tools – upgrade today and feel the difference!
Our Cordless Drill Picks
- Ryobi R18PD3-215GZ 18 V ONE+ – Best For Most People & Households
- Bosch Home and Garden Cordless Combi Drill – A Versatile Upgrade
- BLACK+DECKER 18 V Cordless 2-Gear Combi Hammer Drill – A Budget All-In-One Tool
- Makita 18 V Cordless Combi Drill – If You Already Have Makita Tools
- DEWALT 18V Cordless Lithium LXT Combi Drill – A Good Heavy-Duty Drill
- MYLEK 18V Cordless Drill – Cheapest Decent-ish Drill
1. Ryobi R18PD3-215GZ 18 V ONE+ – Our Best Pick
The Ryobi R18PD3-215GZ 18 V ONE+ Cordless Combi Drill Starter Kit is quite a versatile tool that suits a variety of household tasks. Its cordless design and strong 18V battery make it especially useful for jobs requiring mobility without the hassle of a cord. The drill is designed to work on several materials, including wood, metal, masonry, and more, making it a practical choice for different DIY projects around the house.
This combi drill boasts a robust design with a profiled comfort handle and a compact shape that enhances its ease of use, even in tight spaces. It features a 2-speed gearbox that allows for speeds of 500/1800 rpm, and it offers 24 clutch settings for greater control over your drilling work. The added hammer function is particularly helpful for tough materials like brick or concrete and is ideal for installing fixtures and fittings in various home parts.
The starter kit includes two 1.5Ah Lithium-ion batteries and a charger, part of the Ryobi ONE+ system. This system is compatible with over 100 tools, so you can use the same batteries across a wide range of tools, enhancing both versatility and value. Whether you’re assembling furniture, hanging decorations, or doing more intensive drilling, this drill adapts to the task with its adjustable torque settings and easy bit changes.
In addition, the drill is equipped with an LED light that improves visibility in poorly lit areas and ensures precision in darker corners. The integrated bit storage clip is a nice touch, keeping essential bits handy and making switches quick and effortless. This feature-packed drill appears well-suited for anyone looking to undertake various home improvement tasks without needing multiple tools.
- Versatile Functionality: Capable of drilling into a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and masonry, making it suitable for many DIY tasks.
- Cordless Convenience: Battery-powered to ensure easy mobility and use without the limitation of being tethered to a power outlet.
- Multiple Settings: Features a 2-speed gearbox and 24 clutch settings, allowing for precise control according to the needs of the task.
- Integrated LED Light: Enhances visibility in dimly lit environments, ensuring accuracy when drilling.
- Part of the ONE+ System: Comes with two batteries compatible with over 100 other Ryobi ONE+ tools, maximizing investment through shared battery use across tools.
- Limited Battery Life: While having two batteries helps, each battery’s 1.5 Ah capacity might not suffice for longer, more demanding projects without recharging.
- Bulkier Design: Despite its compact profile, the tool may still be bulky for users who prefer a very lightweight drill.
- Noisy Operation: The drill can be quite loud, especially on higher settings or when drilling into harder materials.
2. Bosch Home and Garden Cordless Combi Drill – Great For Home Enthusiasts and DIY
The Bosch Home and Garden Cordless Combi Drill PSB 1800 LI-2 boasts a maximum rotational speed of 1900 RPM, providing ample power for various drilling and screw-driving tasks. Equipped with an 18-volt lithium-ion battery, this drill offers optimum power for every task, ensuring efficient performance with its 2-speed gearbox. With 20 torque settings available, users can easily adjust the drill to suit different materials and applications, enhancing versatility and precision.
Featuring a 10mm shank and a single-sleeve drill chuck, the Bosch PSB 1800 LI-2 facilitates easy-to-screw and drill bit changes, streamlining workflow and reducing downtime. Its compatibility with all tools within the green Bosch Home & Garden 18-volt system, thanks to the Power for ALL 18 V feature, ensures flexibility and convenience for users with existing Bosch tools. Additionally, including two lithium-ion batteries in the package provides extended runtime and eliminates the need for frequent recharging.
The PSB 1800 LI-2 offers a maximum torque of 38 Nm and a no-load speed of 0–1350 min-1, enabling efficient drilling in a variety of materials. With a drilling diameter of up to 30mm in wood and 10mm in steel and masonry, this drill is suitable for a wide range of DIY tasks around the home. Its compact and lightweight design, weighing just 1.3 kg, ensures easy manoeuvrability and reduces user fatigue during prolonged use. Overall, the Bosch PSB 1800 LI-2 Cordless Combi Drill combines power, versatility, and convenience, making it an ideal choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.
- Versatile Functionality: The PSB 1800 LI-2 is a 3-in-1 tool for screwing, drilling, and impact drilling, offering versatility for various home tasks.
- Convenient Torque Settings: With 20 torque settings, users can easily adjust the drill to match different materials and applications, ensuring precise and efficient performance.
- Power for ALL 18 V: Compatible with all tools within the green Bosch Home & Garden 18-volt system, allowing users to utilise the same battery across multiple tools for added convenience and flexibility.
- Dual Battery Inclusion: Two lithium-ion batteries extend runtime and eliminate the need for frequent recharging, ensuring uninterrupted workflow during longer projects.
- Compact and Lightweight Design: Weighing just 1.3 kg, the drill is easy to manoeuvre and reduces user fatigue, enhancing comfort during prolonged use.
- Limited Maximum Torque: With a maximum torque of 38 Nm, the drill may struggle with more demanding drilling tasks, particularly in harder materials.
- Not Ideal for Heavy-Duty Applications: While suitable for a wide range of materials, including wood and metal, the drill may not excel in heavy-duty applications such as drilling into thick steel or concrete.
- Limited Dust Protection: Users should take precautions to prevent dust accumulation and use the product in well-ventilated areas, as noted in the product description, to ensure longevity and performance.
3. BLACK+DECKER 18 V Cordless 2-Gear Combi Hammer Drill
The BLACK+DECKER 18 V Cordless 2-Gear Combi Hammer Drill is a versatile and compact tool ideal for a variety of tasks around the home, from drilling into wood and metal to hammer drilling in masonry. This model includes a two-speed gear system that allows users to choose the optimal speed for different materials. The all-metal motor and gearbox contribute to its robust construction, offering high performance with up to 21,000 blows per minute for masonry applications and a variable speed of 0 to 1,400 revolutions per minute for precise drilling and screw driving.
This drill’s keyless chuck facilitates quick and easy bit changes, enhancing convenience for the user. It comes equipped with a double-ended screwdriver bit, allowing for immediate use upon purchase. Additionally, the tool features ten torque settings, providing flexibility for various drilling and driving tasks. Combined with the variable speed function, these settings give users greater control over the tool, which is suitable for high-speed drilling into harder materials and controlled driving for more delicate projects.
Part of BLACK+DECKER’s 18V system, this hammer drill runs on a Lithium-Ion battery, which is interchangeable across all 18V tools from the brand, whether they are power tools or garden equipment. This feature adds versatility and offers a cost-effective solution for expanding one’s tool collection without the need for additional batteries. The overall design prioritizes user comfort and efficiency, making it an essential tool for both DIY enthusiasts and those needing a reliable drill for occasional home improvements.
In terms of usability, the drill scores high with its lightweight design, ensuring it is easy to handle without sacrificing power or performance. The emphasis on a user-friendly experience makes it an appealing choice for hobbyists who might not need professional-grade equipment but still appreciate a tool that performs well across a range of DIY tasks.
- Versatile Functionality: Offers both drilling and hammer drilling capabilities, making it suitable for various materials including wood, metal, and masonry.
- Adjustable Speed and Torque: This product features a two-speed gear system and 10 torque settings, providing precise control for different applications.
- Interchangeable Battery System: This system is compatible with all 18V BLACK+DECKER power and garden tools, allowing for flexibility and battery cost savings.
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to handle and manoeuvre, which reduces fatigue during extended use.
- Keyless Chuck: Simplifies the process of changing bits, enhancing ease of use and saving time.
- Limited Battery Capacity: The 1.5 Ah battery may require frequent recharging for longer or more intensive projects.
- Slower Charging Time: Takes about four hours to fully charge, which may interrupt prolonged work sessions unless a spare battery is available.
- No High-End Features: Lacks some of the advanced features found in professional-grade tools, such as brushless motors or faster charging times.
4. Makita 18 V Cordless Combi Drill
I recently got the Makita 18 V Cordless Combi Drill, and it’s been quite a useful tool around the house. This drill comes with two batteries, a charger, and an impressive 70-piece accessory kit that includes everything you might need for various drilling and screwing tasks. What’s great about this set is that all these bits and pieces come neatly packed in a pilot case, making it easy to keep everything organized and portable.
The drill itself is designed for durability and ease of use. It features a two-speed gearbox made of metal gears, which adds to its sturdiness. The keyless chuck is a fantastic feature because it allows for quick and easy changes of bits without needing any additional tools, which saves a lot of time during jobs.
Another standout aspect of this drill is its versatility. It offers three different functions: drilling, hammer drilling, and screwdriving, which covers most of the tasks you’d need to tackle in any general DIY project. The 18 V power output ensures that it’s strong enough for most domestic jobs, and the fact that it’s cordless adds to its convenience, allowing me to work anywhere without worrying about finding a power outlet. Overall, this Makita drill is a robust tool that’s made a lot of my home improvement projects a lot easier.
- Versatile Functionality: Offers drilling, hammer drilling, and screwdriver functions, making it suitable for various tasks.
- Ease of Use: The keyless chuck allows for quick bit changes without additional tools, enhancing user convenience.
- Portability: Being cordless and coming with a practical pilot case, it is easy to transport and use anywhere without needing a power socket.
- Durability: Features a robust two-speed gearbox with metal gears, ensuring longevity even with regular use.
- Complete Kit: This kit includes a comprehensive 70-piece accessory set, which means most necessary bits and pieces are immediately at hand for various projects.
- Limited Speed: With a maximum of 400 RPM, it may not be as fast as some other drills on the market, which could slow down work on tougher materials.
- Weight: Weighing over 5 kg, it might feel heavy during extended use, potentially leading to user fatigue.
- Batteries Not Included: Despite including two batteries in the package, they are not pre-included, which could be inconvenient.
5. DEWALT 18V Cordless Lithium LXT Combi Drill
The DEWALT 18V Cordless Lithium LXT Combi Drill is a versatile tool designed for both amateur and professional users who need a reliable drill that can handle a range of drilling tasks. This model includes a hammer action feature which makes it suitable for tougher materials, ensuring it can be used in a variety of construction and repair scenarios. The drill is part of the DEWALT XR Lithium Ion series, which is known for its efficiency and speed-enhancing capabilities. With a maximum rotational speed of 2000 RPM and a power output of 400 Watts, it promises high performance for various drilling needs.
Key features of this DEWALT drill include its compact size (22.8 x 7.5 x 19.1 cm) and a weight of 3.34 kg, making it easy to handle and carry around, especially with the included heavy-duty carrying case. The drill operates on an 18 Volt system and comes with a DCB185 XR battery, ensuring long-lasting power without the need for constant recharges. Additionally, the DCD776C1 model features a two-speed setting and a variable speed reverse switch, offering maximum control over your drilling work.
The drill also boasts an improved ergonomic design with a rubber grip that increases user comfort during use, making it ideal for prolonged projects. A bright white LED with a delay feature improves visibility in low-light conditions, adding to its usability in various environments. The kit includes a DCB107 rapid charger which can recharge the battery within an hour, minimising downtime and enhancing productivity.
Overall, the DEWALT 18V Cordless Lithium LXT Combi Drill stands out for its robust design, efficient power management, and user-friendly features. It’s a practical choice for those who value performance and convenience in their power tools.
- Versatile Functionality: Equipped with drill driver and hammer settings, it can handle various materials and applications, making it suitable for home and professional use.
- High Performance: Its maximum rotational speed of 2000 RPM and powerful 400-watt output ensure efficient drilling and driving.
- Rapid Charging: The DCB107 charger can recharge the battery in just one hour, reducing wait times and increasing productivity.
- Enhanced User Comfort: Features an ergonomic design with a rubber grip, which reduces fatigue during extended use.
- Improved Visibility: Comes with a bright white LED light with delay functionality, aiding visibility in dimly lit conditions.
- Battery Life Concerns: Some users have noted variability in battery life, which may affect performance during longer projects.
- Weight: At 3.34 kg, it might be considered heavy for some users, particularly when used for extended periods.
- Limited Battery and Charger Inclusion: Only one battery is included, and no additional backup battery is provided in the kit, which might be inconvenient for continuous use.
6. MYLEK 18V Cordless – Cheapest Decent-ish Drill
The MYLEK 18V Cordless Drill is a versatile and effective tool ideal for various DIY tasks around the home or garden. It comes equipped with a robust lithium-ion battery that ensures long-lasting power and efficiency. The battery is designed to reach a peak of 20V when charged, before stabilising at 18V. This design eliminates memory effect, meaning the battery can recharge to its full capacity and maintain its charge when not in use, making it ready for action whenever needed.
Designed with user comfort in mind, this drill features an array of thoughtful attributes to enhance user experience. It has a soft grip, anti-shock protection moulding, and a light weight of just 1.0 kg, all contributing to reduced fatigue during extended use. The quick-change keyless chuck ranges from 0.8 to 10mm, facilitating easy and rapid bit changes. Additionally, the drill is equipped with a forward and reverse switch, variable speed control, and an LED work light, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions.
The MYLEK drill offers flexible control options, including 18+1 torque settings, allowing precise adjustments for working with different materials such as wood, plastic, and metal. The maximum drilling capacity is 20mm for wood and 8mm for steel, making it suitable for a variety of drilling and driving tasks. The package includes a comprehensive 13-piece accessory kit, ensuring that users have all the necessary bits for the job at hand.
Each purchase of the MYLEK 18V Cordless Drill comes with a two-year warranty, underscoring the brand’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. This drill is not only easy to handle but also certified to high UK standards, including compliance with EU Battery Directives and RoHS. It’s an ideal choice for anyone seeking a reliable, user-friendly power tool for their drilling and driving needs.
- Long-Lasting Battery – The lithium-ion battery charges to 20V and stabilizes at 18V without memory effect, ensuring it remains powered up for longer periods.
- User Comfort – Features like a soft grip, lightweight design, and anti-shock protection make it comfortable and easy to use, even for extended periods.
- Versatile Use – With 18+1 torque settings and the capacity to drill through wood and steel, it offers great flexibility for various home DIY tasks.
- Integrated LED Work Light – Enhances visibility in low-light conditions, making it easier to work in dim areas or at night.
- Comprehensive Accessory Kit – Comes with a 13-piece kit that includes various bits, making it ready to tackle multiple tasks right out of the box.
- No Hammer Function – Lacks a hammer function, which limits its use on tougher materials like brick and masonry.
- Brushed Motor – Uses a brushed motor, which can create sparks and may have a shorter lifespan compared to brushless motors.
- Charging Time – The battery can take up to 5 hours to fully charge, which may be inconvenient for those needing quick turnarounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for when buying a cordless drill?
When shopping for a cordless drill, consider its power, measured in volts, battery type (commonly lithium-ion), speed settings, and whether it has a hammer function for drilling into harder materials. The drill’s weight and grip comfort are also important, especially if you’ll be using it for long periods.
How do I know which battery type to choose for my cordless drill?
Lithium-ion batteries are the most popular choice because they’re lightweight and have a longer lifespan without losing charge when not in use. Look for a battery that offers quick charging and longer run times to improve efficiency.
What’s the difference between a drill and an impact driver?
A drill is versatile, designed for drilling holes and driving screws. An impact driver provides more torque with less effort from the user, making it better for driving large screws and bolts, especially in tougher materials.
How long does the battery last on a cordless drill?
Battery life varies depending on the drill model and the type of battery. Typically, a fully charged battery can last between 20 minutes to several hours of continuous use. Battery life is often indicated by ampere-hours (Ah); the higher the number, the longer the battery will last.
Can I use the same battery for different tools?
Yes, if the tools are from the same manufacturer and part of a shared battery system. Many brands offer tools that can operate with the same battery type, which can save money and storage space.
How do I properly care for my cordless drill?
Keep your drill clean, dry, and store it in a cool, protected area. Regularly check the battery and contacts for any dirt or wear. Avoid overcharging the battery, and ensure you use the correct settings and bits for the job to prevent undue stress on the drill.
What are the best brands of cordless drills available in the UK?
Popular brands in the UK include DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, and Ryobi. These brands are well-known for their reliability, variety of models, and innovation in battery technology and drill design.
How much should I expect to spend on a good-quality cordless drill?
You can find a reliable cordless drill starting around £50, but for more robust and feature-rich models, prices can range from £100 to £300. The investment often reflects the tool’s durability and capabilities.
What safety precautions should I take when using a cordless drill?
Always wear appropriate safety gear such as goggles and gloves. Ensure the drill bit is securely fastened before use, and be aware of your surroundings to avoid drilling into electrical wires or water pipes. Keep your work area clean and well-lit.
Can cordless drills be used for heavy-duty work?
Yes, some cordless drills are designed for heavy-duty tasks, especially models with a hammer function and higher voltage. However, for very demanding tasks, a more specialized tool like a rotary hammer might be required.
What Is The Difference Between Electric Scredrivers and Cordless Drills?
Electric screwdrivers are compact and primarily used for driving screws with precision in light tasks. Drills, more robust and versatile, offer adjustable settings to handle drilling and screwdriving in various materials and typically feature a keyless chuck to accommodate a wide range of bit sizes.
How can I tell if a drill has enough power for my needs?
Check the drill’s voltage and torque specifications. Higher voltage generally means more power, suitable for tougher tasks. Torque, measured in Newton-meters (Nm), indicates the drill’s twisting force, important for tasks requiring high strength.
Are there any accessories I should consider buying with my cordless drill?
Consider getting a set of drill bits suitable for different materials, extra battery packs, a charger, and a carrying case for better organization and portability. Specialty bits and extensions can also be useful for specific projects.
