Cordless Drills Buying Guide (2026): What to Check Before You Buy

What to look for

• Pick the battery platform first: you will buy more tools on the same batteries, so choose a brand with the tools you want next.
• Brushless motors run cool box, last longer per charge and are worth paying for if you drill often.
• A 1/2 in. chuck takes bigger bits than a 3/8 in. chuck and is standard on serious drills.
• Kits with two batteries let you keep working while one charges.

How much to spend

Typical prices run from £49 to £449. Budget models cover the basics; spending more usually buys top-tier torque in a compact brushless body. Only pay for features you will use.

Who should skip what

• Skip the Milwaukee M18FPD3-502X M18 FUEL if you hang shelves a few times a year; a cheaper drill does that just as well
• Skip the DEWALT DCD796D2T 18V XR if you need maximum torque for daily jobsite drilling; the Milwaukee FUEL is stronger
• Skip the Ryobi R18PD3-220S 18V ONE+ if you drill into masonry or drive long screws all day; a brushless model handles that better
• Skip the BLACK+DECKER BDCDC18 18V Cordless if you want a battery platform with serious tools; this one tops out quickly

Buying tips

Drill kits see their deepest UK discounts around Father’s Day and Black Friday, when brands often bundle a free battery or tool. Register your tool with the brand: DEWALT and Milwaukee warranties run years, and registration makes claims easier.

Our picks

See all our best cordless drills in the uk for more options.