The DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCD791 is the best cordless drill for most people. Its brushless motor and 0–2,000 RPM high gear bore holes fast, its 1/2-in. ratcheting chuck holds bits securely, and its compact body fits where bigger drills can’t. Want a shorter tool or a complete kit? Milwaukee and Makita have you covered.
| Product | Model | Key Spec | Best For | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Best Overall DEWALT DCD791B | 0–2,000 RPM | Everyday drilling & driving | View on Amazon |
 | Most Compact Milwaukee 2801-20 | 500 in-lbs | Tight spaces & overhead work | View on Amazon |
 | Best Kit Makita XFD131 | 440 in-lbs | Buyers who want a battery kit | View on Amazon |
What Makes a Great Cordless Drill
A drill/driver needs to do two jobs well: drill clean holes (speed matters) and drive screws without stripping them (clutch control matters). We compared high-gear RPM, max torque (in-lbs), front-to-back length (inches), chuck quality, and the value of available kits.
DEWALT DCD791 — Best Overall
The DCD791 is the compact drill we recommend most. The 2,000 RPM high gear makes quick work of spade and auger bits in framing lumber, while low gear (0–550 RPM) and a precise clutch handle screw driving. The ratcheting metal chuck grips round-shank bits tightly without slipping.
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Compact 1/2" Drill/Driver (DCD791B)
- Spec
- Brushless motor
- Spec
- 2-speed: 0–550 / 0–2,000 RPM
- Spec
- 1/2 in. ratcheting metal chuck
- Spec
- 3-mode LED work light
Pros
- Compact yet very powerful
- Fast 2,000 RPM high gear for wood boring
- Proven durability
Cons
- No hammer mode (see DCD796)
- Bare tool
Milwaukee 2801-20 — Most Compact
At just 6.9 inches long, Milwaukee’s M18 compact brushless drill is ideal for working between studs, inside cabinets, and overhead. It delivers 500 in-lbs of torque and a 0–1,800 RPM high gear — plenty for household projects.
Makita XFD131 — Best Kit
If you don’t own any batteries yet, Makita’s XFD131 kit is a great starting point: it typically includes the brushless drill, a 3.0Ah battery, a rapid charger, and a case. It’s light and comfortable, with a silky clutch that’s great for furniture assembly and cabinet work.
Cordless Drill Buyer’s Guide
Brushless vs. brushed motors
Brushless motors are more efficient, run cooler, and last longer. They cost a bit more, but every drill in this guide is brushless for good reason.
Speed (RPM) and torque (in-lbs)
High RPM (1,800–2,000) helps when boring holes in wood. Torque matters for large-diameter bits and long screws. For most homeowners, 400–600 in-lbs is more than enough.
Size and weight
A drill under 7.5 inches long and around 3 lbs with a compact battery is easy to control one-handed and fits in tight spaces.
Bare tool vs. kit
Already own batteries? Save money with the bare tool (model numbers ending in B for DEWALT or -20 for Milwaukee). Starting fresh? A kit with two batteries is the better value.
The Bottom Line
Pick the DEWALT DCD791 for the best all-around performance, the Milwaukee 2801-20 for tight spaces, or the Makita XFD131 kit for a complete, ready-to-go setup. Pair any of them with one of our top-rated impact drivers for the ultimate cordless combo.