How to Choose the Best Drill for Your Needs

Your Guide to buying the best Drills

Overview

A drill is a versatile tool used in many areas of home improvement and construction. It is an essential tool for any homeowner or professional. Having the right drill for the job is key to ensure fast, efficient and safe completion of any task. This buying guide is designed to provide an overview of the different types of drills available on the market, their associated features and benefits, and helpful tips to consider when selecting the best drill for your needs.

Key features

  1. Power Source - Consider the type of power source the drill needs. Is it battery operated or does it need to be plugged in?
  2. Size & Weight - Consider the size and weight of the drill. Is it a cordless drill or do you need a larger corded drill for heavier jobs?
  3. Drill Bits - What type of drill bits will you need? Consider the size, shape, and material of the drill bit you'll need depending on the job.
  4. Speed & Torque - Consider the speed and torque of the drill. High-torque drills can provide a lot of power, but may be too bulky for tight spaces.
  5. Grip & Comfort - Consider the handle, trigger, and other grips on the drill. A comfortable grip is important for long hours of drilling.
  6. Additional Features - Consider other features such as an LED light or adjustable speed settings.

See the most popular Drills on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Versatile - Drills are extremely versatile tools and can be used for a variety of projects, from light-duty work to heavy-duty tasks.
  • Speed Control - Drills feature variable speed settings, meaning you can adjust the speed for tasks that require precision and accuracy.
  • Portable - Most models of drills are lightweight and easy to transport, making them perfect for use in different locations.
  • Durability - Drills are built to last and withstand wear and tear, providing long-term use.
  • Powerful - Drills deliver a high amount of power, enabling you to complete tough tasks quickly and efficiently.

Cons

  • Electricity or Battery? - Depending on the type of job, you may need to consider whether the drill should be powered by electricity or battery. Electricity may provide more power and torque for some jobs, while battery powered drills may be more convenient for small, remote projects.
  • Cost - Drills can come with a wide range of costs, so it is important to consider how much you are willing to spend. Less expensive models may be good for occasional use, while more expensive models may be better for frequent, long-term use.
  • Size and Weight - Consider the size and weight of the drill to ensure it is easy to use and maneuver in tight spaces or with one hand. Heavier models may be more durable, while smaller and lighter models may be better for smaller jobs.
  • Power and Speed - You'll want to ensure that the drill has enough power and speed for the job. Some drills may offer variable speeds, which can be useful for different materials.
  • Included Accessories - Drills may come with various included accessories, such as drill bits, screwdriver bits, and adjustable handles. Make sure to check that the drill includes all of the accessories needed for the job.
  • Safety Features - Safety features such as a lock-on trigger switch, an emergency stop button, and a guard plate can help to protect you from injury. Make sure to check that the drill has the right safety features for the job.
  • Noise - Drills can be loud, so make sure to consider how much noise the drill will produce. If possible, test the drill to make sure the noise level is acceptable.
  • Warranty - Many drills come with a limited warranty, so it is important to make sure that the warranty covers any issues that may arise.

Best alternatives

  1. Saw - A tool used for cutting and shaping wood and other materials.
  2. Screwdriver - A tool used to drive screws, typically with a handle and a tip that fits into a screw head.
  3. Chisel - A tool used for carving or chiseling away material, usually wood or stone.
  4. Hammer - A tool used to drive nails, typically with a handle and a head made of metal.
  5. Router - A tool used for cutting and shaping wood, plastic, and other materials.
  6. Grinder - A tool used for grinding and polishing metal and other materials.
  7. Sandpaper - A tool used for sanding and polishing wood, metal, and other materials.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Cordless Drill - A drill which can be operated without a power cord.
  • Drill Bits - A cutting tool used to create cylindrical holes in materials.
  • Drill Press - A type of drill which is set in a stationary position, and is typically used for heavier materials.
  • Countersink Bits - A type of bit used to create a conical hole in materials.
  • Drill Chuck - A device used to hold drill bits.
  • Hole Saw - A drill attachment used to create circular holes in materials.
  • Hammer Drill - A drill which can be used to drill into harder materials.
  • Extension Cord - An electrical cable used to extend the reach of a power drill.
  • Drill Guide - A device used to guide the drill bit.
  • Driver Bits - Bits used for screwing and unscrewing fasteners.

Common questions

  1. What types and sizes of drill bits are available? Drill bits come in a variety of types and sizes, including twist drill bits for drilling through metal and wood, spade bits for drilling large holes, masonry bits for drilling through concrete or brick, and auger bits for drilling through wood and soft metals. Drill bits also come in a variety of sizes, ranging from smaller 1-mm bits to larger 16-mm bits.
  2. What are the different power options for drills? Drills typically come in two power options: cordless drills, which are powered by a rechargeable battery, and corded drills, which are powered by an electrical outlet or generator. Cordless drills are more portable, but require frequent recharging, while corded drills offer more power and can be used for longer periods of time without needing to be recharged.
  3. What features should I look for when buying a drill? When buying a drill, there are several features to look for, such as the size of the chuck, the type and size of drill bit it can accommodate, the power output, and the speed settings. It is also important to consider the weight and size of the drill, as well as any additional features it may have, such as LED lights or a built-in level.
  4. What safety precautions should I take when using a drill? When using a drill, it is important to take safety precautions to avoid injury. Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris, and use hearing protection to protect your ears from loud noises. Be sure to use the correct drill bit for the job, and keep the drill bit firmly secured to the drill when in use. Additionally, always unplug the drill when changing drill bits or when it is not in use.
  5. What is the best way to store a drill? The best way to store a drill is in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It should also be stored in an area where it cannot be knocked over or damaged. Be sure to keep the drill and all of its components in an organized, labeled container so that it can be easily identified and accessed when needed.

Trivia

A recent study of electric drills found that on average, men and women alike were able to drill the same amount of holes in the same amount of time. This is surprising, considering that electric drills are often marketed as being masculine tools. The study was conducted by the University of Western Australia and published in the Journal of Applied Physical Science International in 2017. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.