The Best Power Drills for Your Next Project

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, a reliable power drill is a must-have tool for tackling a wide range of tasks, from drilling holes to driving screws. With so many options on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the 5 best power drills in 2025, based on performance, features, durability, and user feedback. Each drill is evaluated for its power, versatility, and value, ensuring there’s something for every skill level and budget.

1. DeWalt 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless Drill (DCD791D2)

Best Overall Power Drill

The DeWalt 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless Drill is a powerhouse that combines performance, durability, and versatility, making it our top pick for 2025. This cordless drill features a brushless motor that delivers up to 57% more runtime than standard motors, providing 460 unit watts out (UWO) of power. With two speed settings (0-550 RPM and 0-2,000 RPM), it’s ideal for both heavy-duty drilling and precision tasks.

Key Features:

• Power: 20V brushless motor with 460 UWO.
• Battery Life: Includes two 2.0Ah batteries with a fast charger.
• Ergonomics: Lightweight at 3.4 lbs (without battery) with a comfortable grip.
• Versatility: 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck and LED work light for low-light conditions.
• Durability: Built to withstand tough job site conditions.

Why We Love It:

The DeWalt DCD791D2 excels in both power and efficiency, making it perfect for professionals and serious DIYers. Its compact design and long-lasting battery ensure you can work longer without fatigue. Users on X praise its reliability, with one contractor noting, “This drill hasn’t let me down on any job, from drywall to masonry.”

Best For: Professionals and homeowners tackling demanding projects.
Price: ~$199 (with battery and charger).
Available at Home Depot, Amazon, or DeWalt’s official site.

2. Makita 18V LXT Cordless Drill (XFD131)

Best for Versatility

The Makita 18V LXT Cordless Drill is a favorite for its balance of power, portability, and versatility. Equipped with a brushless motor, it delivers up to 440 in-lbs of torque and features two speed settings (0-500 RPM and 0-1,900 RPM). Its compact 6-5/8-inch length makes it ideal for tight spaces, and the all-metal gear construction ensures durability.

Key Features:

• Power: 18V brushless motor with 440 in-lbs of torque.
• Battery Life: Includes two 3.0Ah batteries for extended runtime.
• Portability: Weighs just 2.8 lbs (without battery).
• Features: Dual LED lights, ergonomic soft-grip handle, and 21 clutch settings.
• Compatibility: Works with Makita’s extensive 18V LXT battery platform.

Why We Love It:

The Makita XFD131 is a go-to for users who need a drill that can handle everything from woodworking to metalworking. Its lightweight design and compatibility with Makita’s battery ecosystem make it a versatile choice. A recent X post from a DIYer raved, “Makita’s 18V drill feels like an extension of my hand—perfect for long projects.”

Best For: DIYers and pros needing a compact, versatile drill.
Price: ~$189 (with battery and charger).
Available at Amazon, Acme Tools, or Makita’s official site.

3. Bosch 18V EC Brushless Compact Tough Drill (DDS183-02)

Best for Heavy-Duty Tasks

The Bosch 18V EC Brushless Compact Tough Drill is built for heavy-duty applications, offering exceptional power and durability. With 531 in-lbs of torque and a brushless motor, this drill can handle tough materials like concrete and steel. Its “Compact Tough” design ensures it’s both powerful and easy to maneuver.

Key Features:

• Power: 18V brushless motor with 531 in-lbs of torque.
• Durability: All-metal chuck and robust housing for job site durability.
• Battery Life: Includes two 2.0Ah batteries with a charger.
• Features: Two speed settings (0-600 RPM and 0-1,900 RPM), 20+1 clutch settings, and an LED light.
• Weight: 3.3 lbs (without battery).

Why We Love It:

The Bosch DDS183-02 is a beast for demanding tasks, yet its compact design makes it surprisingly easy to handle. Users on X highlight its ability to power through tough materials, with one user stating, “Drilled through concrete like butter with this Bosch beast.” Its KickBack Control feature also reduces strain during high-torque tasks.

Best For: Contractors and DIYers working on heavy-duty projects.
Price: ~$199 (with battery and charger).
Available at Lowe’s, Amazon, or Bosch’s official site.

4. Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Drill (P215K)

Best Budget-Friendly Drill

For those on a budget, the Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Drill offers impressive performance at an affordable price. With 350 in-lbs of torque and a two-speed gearbox (0-450 RPM and 0-1,600 RPM), it’s suitable for most household tasks. Its compatibility with Ryobi’s ONE+ battery system makes it a great value for users already invested in the ecosystem.

Key Features:

• Power: 18V motor with 350 in-lbs of torque.
• Affordability: Includes two 1.5Ah batteries and a charger.
• Features: 24 clutch settings, 1/2-inch keyless chuck, and onboard bit storage.
• Weight: 3.6 lbs (without battery).
• Value: Compatible with all Ryobi ONE+ 18V tools.

Why We Love It:

The Ryobi P215K is a fantastic entry-level drill that doesn’t skimp on features. It’s perfect for homeowners tackling occasional projects like furniture assembly or deck building. X users appreciate its affordability, with one commenting, “Ryobi’s drill gets the job done without breaking the bank.”

Best For: Beginners and budget-conscious DIYers.
Price: ~$99 (with battery and charger).
Available at Home Depot or Ryobi’s official site.

5. Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2-Inch Hammer Drill (2904-22)

Best for Hammer Drilling

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2-Inch Hammer Drill is the go-to choice for users who need a drill that can switch between standard drilling and hammer drilling for masonry. Its brushless POWERSTATE motor delivers an impressive 1,200 in-lbs of torque, making it one of the most powerful cordless drills available. It also features REDLINK PLUS intelligence to prevent overheating and overloading.

Key Features:

• Power: 18V brushless motor with 1,200 in-lbs of torque.
• Hammer Function: Up to 32,000 BPM for masonry drilling.
• Battery Life: Includes two 5.0Ah batteries for extended runtime.
• Features: All-metal chuck, three-mode operation (drill, hammer drill, screwdriver), and LED light.
• Weight: 4.9 lbs (with battery).

Why We Love It:

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL is a beast for heavy-duty drilling, especially for masonry and concrete. Its hammer drill function sets it apart, and users on X love its raw power, with one contractor noting, “This drill chews through concrete walls like nothing else.” The included high-capacity batteries ensure you can work longer on tough jobs.

Best For: Professionals needing a hammer drill for masonry and heavy-duty tasks.
Price: ~$299 (with battery and charger).
Available at Home Depot, Acme Tools, or Milwaukee’s official site.

How We Chose the Best Power Drills

To select the top 5 power drills, we considered the following factors:

• Performance: Torque, speed settings, and motor efficiency (brushless vs. brushed).
• Battery Life: Runtime and compatibility with battery ecosystems.
• Ergonomics: Weight, grip comfort, and ease of use in tight spaces.
• Durability: Build quality and ability to withstand job site conditions.
• Value: Price relative to features and included accessories.
• User Feedback: Insights from X posts, Amazon reviews, and professional contractor input.

We also prioritized cordless drills for their portability and convenience, as corded models are less common in 2025 due to advancements in battery technology.

Choosing the Right Power Drill for You

When selecting a power drill, consider the following:

• Project Type: Light tasks (e.g., furniture assembly) require less torque, while heavy-duty tasks (e.g., masonry) need a hammer drill like the Milwaukee M18 FUEL.
• Battery System: If you own other tools in a brand’s ecosystem (e.g., Makita LXT or Ryobi ONE+), sticking with the same brand saves money on batteries.
• Budget: Entry-level drills like the Ryobi P215K are great for occasional use, while premium models like the DeWalt DCD791D2 are worth the investment for frequent use.
• Weight and Size: Lighter drills like the Makita XFD131 are ideal for extended use or tight spaces.

Final Thoughts

The DeWalt 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless Drill takes the top spot for its balance of power, efficiency, and durability, making it a versatile choice for most users. For those needing a budget option, the Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Drill delivers solid performance at a fraction of the cost. If hammer drilling is a priority, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL is unmatched. No matter your needs, these drills offer the reliability and features to tackle your next project with confidence.

Note: Prices are approximate and may vary by retailer. Check the linked websites for the latest deals and availability.

This article is based on the latest product specifications, user reviews, and feedback. For pricing details on specific models, visit the retailers’ websites or contact them directly.