You need the right tools If you are building or repairing a boat. One staple you’ll need is a good cordless drill. However, finding a good cordless drill that doesn’t cost a small fortune is easier said than done, especially if you don’t want something that performs well.
This article looks at the five best budget cordless drills on the market. We’ve tried to select ideal products for various jobs, including working on boats.
Best Budget Cordless Drill: Reviews
BLACK+DECKER LD120VA 20-Volt Max Lithium Drill/Driver
This is a cost-effective yet high-performance power drill that can be used for various purposes. It comes from the trusted Black+Decker brand, which should speak to its overall quality.
Product Highlights
This combination cordless drill and driver is highly ergonomic and user-friendly. In addition, it’s designed with a very compact body, so you should easily be able to fit into tight spaces.
Moreover, it weighs just a few pounds, making it very lightweight. On that note, it also features an ergonomically friendly grip for ease of use. As a result, it’s one of the more comfortable drills, and you can use it with a single hand.
This is a 20-Volt cordless drill, which means that it has a good deal of power and can generate quite a bit of torque. The powerful batteries can power this drill to move at up to 750 RPM.
It also comes with a 24-position clutch that helps to prevent overdriving and stripping screws. In addition, this clutch provides maximum control and precision.
The PowerConnect battery system is an interchangeable 20-Volt battery that can be used for dozens of different power tools that feature the PowerConnect battery system. The battery life is quite good as well. You should get around 1.5 hours out of a single charge with moderate use.
What’s to Like
Besides the fact that this is just an all-around good drill for a reasonable price, we also like how it comes with many accessories, including a 30-piece set with various brad point drill bits, 1- and 2-inch screwing bits, nut drivers, and a magnetic holder.
What’s Not to Like
The only thing not to like about this drill is that the included accessories could be more durable. Unfortunately, the included accessories appear to wear down fairly quickly.
Pros
- Fairly durable design
- Lightweight and compact
- Good battery life
- PowerConnect battery system
- Good torque and RPM
- Comfortable grip
- 30-piece set included
Cons
Accessories aren’t the most durable
Avid Power 20V MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill
This budget-friendly cordless drill comes with an accessory ideal for working in tight spaces. In addition, it has many other notable features that we’ll discuss.
Product Highlights
This is a 20-Volt power drill, so it has a good deal of power. Thanks to the relatively powerful battery, it can generate up to 260 inch/pounds of torque. It also has a maximum RPM of 550.
It also has a 16-position clutch to ensure optimal accuracy and precision and prevent stripping or overdriving screws. In addition, it has a variable speed trigger for even more precise control, and the electric brake also adds control.
With constant and heavy-duty use, you should be able to get about an hour of work from the 1.5 AH lithium-ion battery pack. However, it will take about 3 hours to charge. It’s not the best battery life, but you really can’t complain for the price.
This drill has a very compact and ergonomic shape. It’s very small, compact, and lightweight, making it highly portable and easy to use for prolonged periods without fatigue. In addition, it features an ergonomic design with a comfortable rubber handle.
In addition, it has a 10-inch magnetic flexible shaft that allows you to drill and drive screws in extremely tight places. This makes it perfect for working on boats. The integrated LED light also helps you work in tight and dark spaces.
What’s to Like
We like how this high-performance unit comes at a reasonable price. A big bonus is the flexible magnetic shaft. We also like how this model has 20 different double-ended drill and driver bits.
What’s Not to Like
We don’t like that the charging time is comparatively long compared to how long a single charge lasts. Moreover, although it performs well, the RPMs aren’t that high.
Pros
- Good torque
- Highly adjustable clutch
- Variable speed trigger
- Comfortable and ergonomic
- Compact and lightweight
- Has a flexible shaft attachment
- Fairly durable design
- Cost-effective
- Drill and driver bits included
- LED work light
Cons
- Battery life could be better
- Not the fastest drill
WORKPRO Pink Cordless 20V Lithium-ion Drill Driver Set
If you’re looking for a durable, functional, stylish, and cost-effective cordless drill, this is a great one to consider. But, of course, one of the obvious features is the bright pink color.
Product Highlights
One thing that stands out about this drill is how functional it is. First, it comes with a 20-Volt battery, which powers it to speeds of up to 1,500 RPM. In fact, it has a variable speed setting; one setting allows for 0 to 400 RPM, and the second for 0 to 1,500 RPM. This makes it highly versatile.
Moreover, it has a 21 + 1 torque adjustment system. The powerful motor and battery enable this drill to generate up to 203 inch/pounds of torque, so this drill should have more than enough speed and power to work on various projects, including boat building.
You may appreciate the large 3/8” keyless chuck that can hold pretty large bits; it has excellent retention and doesn’t require a key. It also has a very bright work light to illuminate dark spaces.
The soft-grip handle allows you to easily hold onto the drill without fatiguing; it’s pretty comfortable to use for a prolonged period.
It features a relatively compact shape and weighs just four pounds. It’s not the most compact drill, but it works decently in small spaces.
The 1.5 AH lithium-ion battery has a 50-minute battery life, which is relatively decent for a low-cost drill. However, be aware that it will take several hours to fully charge.
What’s to Like
Besides the stylish look, we appreciate the two speed settings, many clutch positions, a high max RPM, and a good deal of torque. For a cost-effective power drill, these specs are impressive.
What’s Not to Like
One thing that’s not to like about this drill is that the included drill bits are not very durable. Moreover, due to the type of motor, it will create a lot of sparks, especially in the beginning,
Pros
- Durable design
- Fairly lightweight and compact
- Has a work light
- Powerful motor with high RPM and torque
- Two speed settings
- 21+1 clutch system
- Ergonomic with a comfort-grip handle
- Decent battery life (for the low price)
Cons
- Weak bits
- Battery doesn’t compare to higher-end units
WORKSITE Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
This variable-speed cordless drill can produce a great deal of torque. It’s an excellent option if you need a decent yet affordable drill for your boat building and repair jobs.
Product Highlights
This drill has a 2-amp battery and a powerful motor that features all-copper gears with excellent durability and functionality.
The battery comes with charging and discharging connections for added safety. It also comes with a real-time capacity indicator to show much battery is left. You should expect between 40 and 60 minutes of battery life on a single charge.
There’s a variable speed trigger to precisely control your drilling speed. You can easily adjust the speed between 0 and 700 RPM.
The powerful motor will deliver up to 309 inch/pounds of torque. In addition, it features a 17 + 1 torque or clutch setting system, more than enough speed and power for most jobs.
You might appreciate the drill’s small and compact size. It measures 11 inches tall and weighs just over 4 pounds, making it ideal for working in tight spaces.
The ergonomic shape and comfort-grip handle make it one of the most comfortable drills.
A magnetic extension shaft allows you to drill and fasten screws in tight areas. This is one feature that makes it ideal for working on boats. Moreover, there’s an LED work light to help you see what you are doing.
What’s to Like
The wide variety of driver bits and drill bits is a bonus. Moreover, the compact design, a magnetic flexible extension shaft, and work light make this drill ideal for working on boats.
What’s Not to Like
One of the only downsides is that it might not be the most durable. It’s probably not something you want to drop too many times.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Ergonomic
- Precise torque adjustment
- High torque and RPM
- Work light and flexible shaft included
- Decent battery life
- Fantastic price
- Many accessories included
Cons
Somewhat limited durability
Bosch Power Tools Drill Kit – PS31-2A – 12-Volt
This is one of the most expensive drills on our list, but it’s still relatively cost-effective, especially considering its excellent functionality, durability, and ergonomic shape.
Product Highlights
If you want a small and lightweight drill that works in small spaces, this 7-inch long drill weighs just over 2 pounds, making it the smallest and lightest tool on our list.
It’s perfect for working in tight spaces and ideal for small hands and people who don’t want to lift much weight. The handle is soft and comfortable. It also features a work light for those dark spaces you need to reach.
Although it may be small, it does have a good deal of power and speed. It comes with a 12-Volt battery, which may not sound impressive, but it will deliver speed and power. In addition, this unit can deliver up to 265 inch/pounds of torque—not bad for such a small drill.
Moreover, it comes with 20 + 1 torque settings for precise adjustments. This helps prevent screws from being stripped and holes from being over-drilled. It also features two speed settings. The first gear allows it to move from 0 to 350 RPM, and the second gear up to 1,300 RPM.
One of the best features is that this drill comes with two batteries. So when one runs out, you can use the other one while charging the primary battery.
You also get a fuel gauge to see exactly how much battery life is left. However, these are relatively small 12-Volt batteries, so expect to get between 30 and 40 minutes on a single charge.
On a side note, although it’s small, this is also one of the most durable drills, made with excellent materials.
What’s to Like
The best aspect of this drill is how much speed and power it can produce despite its small size. It’s very easy for everybody to use in any space. The fact that it’s tough and durable is another bonus.
What’s Not to like
Although it does come with 2 batteries, they’re not that great. Also, keep in mind that you don’t really get any drill bits or other accessories included.
Pros
- Very lightweight and compact
- Great speed and torque for its size
- Features a work light
- Two batteries included
- Has a fuel gauge
- Precise torque adjustment
- Very durable
Cons
- A bit pricey
- Battery life is not fantastic
Buyer’s Guide
You need to consider a few factors when shopping for a budget cordless drill.
Type
The cordless drill is the most popular, but corded drills might be better if you need plenty of power and don’t want to deal with dying batteries.
A hammer drill is required if you need to work on tough materials, such as masonry. However, if you need something even more powerful, a rotary hammer drill might be the tool of choice.
The drills we looked at today are very basic cordless combination drill and driver sets. These are designed for drilling holes and screwing fasteners into materials such as wood.
The other thing you want to consider in terms of drill types is the motor type. Again, there are either brushless or brushed motors. Although brushless motors last longer and perform better, motors with brushes tend to be cheaper.
Brand
Buying a known brand name might be worth it. Of course, you will pay more for high-end brand names, but they tend to be more reliable.
We’ve tried to select drills from fairly popular brands. A good warranty is one of the most significant benefits you usually get with a higher-end brand name.
Voltage
Pay attention to how many volts the drill battery has. Our reviews show that some of these drills have as few as 12 volts, whereas others have as many as 20. The more volts the drill has, the more powerful it will be. This translates to achieving more speed and higher levels of torque.
Battery Capacity
One of the most important features is how well the batteries perform. Look at the Ah or mAh rating for the battery. A battery with an Ah rating of at least 1.5, 2.0, or even 2.5 is ideal. The higher this rating, the more power the battery has and the longer it will last. You can expect 40 to 60 minutes of use on a single charge out of a 2.0 Ah battery.
Chuck Size
A standard drill will have a chuck size of 3/8 inches. This should accommodate about 90% of any jobs you might have. However, if you need something heavier and more powerful for big jobs, a 1/2-inch chuck would be called for.
FAQ
How to Charge a Cordless Drill Battery Without a Charger?
There are a few ways to charge this battery without the dedicated charger. This includes using an alternative battery, your car battery, a clip charger, a USB port, or a solar panel.
How to Use a Cordless Drill?
Using a cordless drill is very easy. Simply set the clutch to how much torque you need, set the drill in the direction it should go, and press the trigger to activate it. Of course, how you use the drill will depend on the job.
How Long Do Cordless Drill Batteries Last?
This really depends on the battery’s power rating. For example, a low-end battery might last for 30 minutes, whereas a high-end battery may last several hours.
How to Store Cordless Drill Batteries?
Before storing a battery, make sure that it is fully charged. Also, keep the battery in a cool and dry location.
How to Choose a Cordless Drill?
You should choose a cordless drill based on its motor power, battery rating, maximum RPM, maximum torque, size and weight, and any additional features that you may need.
Conclusion
The best budget cordless drill on our list is the Bosch Power Tools Drill Kit. It’s small yet powerful, has many great features, and should last for many years.
