Best Corded Drills of 2021: Complete Reviews

The best corded drill can give you an endless amount of power without having to worry about recharging batteries in the middle of your boat building project.

As one of the most popular tools, there is an assortment of drills to choose from, so in this guide, we’ll go over the top corded drills from some of the most renowned manufacturers to help you find the right model for your needs.

Best Corded Drill Reviews

1. BLACK+DECKER Corded Drill (DR260C)

The BLACK+DECKER Corded Drill is a 3/8 drill with 5.2 amps that you can quickly put to fair use for an assortment of professional and personal projects.

It’s a powerful model to have on-hand, whether you need to drill or drive into an assortment of materials.

Also, since it is manufactured by one of the most popular tool brands, you can guarantee it will have a few other reliable features.

Product Highlights

Choosing the BLACK+DECKER Corded Drill as your next drill can add a lot of conveniences to your toolbox since it’s not only powerful but also compact and easy to bring with you from site to site.

You’ll find there’s variable speed control, as with most other drills, that allow you to decide how quickly the head needs to rotate depending on whether you are drilling or driving.

There is also an on-board storage solution for your bits, so you won’t have to worry about carrying around any extra accessories that could easily get lost in the bottom of your toolbox.

Along with the drill, you will also receive a double-ended screwdriver bit that is incredibly easy to use in tight spaces.

Users will be able to choose from speeds between 0 and 1,500 rpm, which is more than speedy enough to work with a variety of materials.

Fortunately, there is also a keyless chuck, so you can easily switch out your drill bits in a matter of seconds so you can continue drilling or driving into plastic, metal, and wood.

What to Like About It

One of the first advantages you’ll find with the BLACK+DECKER Corded Drill is that it operates cooler than most other drills, even if you’re about to top out on power.

Also, you’ll appreciate how lightweight and compact the drill is, which makes it more comfortable to hold for extended periods and to fit into tight spaces.

You’ll like how although it’s lightweight, it still feels and performs like many of the more expensive drills on the market, and it has plenty of features, including a forward and reverse slider.

What Not to Like About It

If you have a lot of outdoor projects, you might want to consider an alternate drill since the cooling vent on this drill leads directly to the interior components that could easily get damaged if wet.

Also, you might find that the power cord is too short for some projects, as it is only six feet in length.

Ideally, make sure that you leave the on-board storage empty when using the drill; otherwise, the stowed bits could bite into your hands.

PROS

• Adjustable speed
• Stays cool
• Lightweight and compact
• Convenient features
• Performs very well

CONS

• Not for inclement weather
• Short power cord

2. VonHaus 10-Amp Heavy Duty Drill

The VonHaus 10-Amp Heavy Duty Drill has a similar aesthetic to most heavy-duty two-handed drills that you might want to get your hands on for large scale and industrial projects.

With a 10-amp design, you’ll have plenty of power for dealing with thick materials with far less effort than with some of the other drills on this list.

Overall, this design is best for professionals who need a lot of power behind their drills, rather than DIYers searching for a user-friendly everyday drill.

Product Highlights

There’s plenty to appreciate with this drill, especially when it comes to power.

Since there are ten amps available for you to use, you will find that drilling large holes in thick materials is substantially more manageable.

Still, you can also use this device as a mud mixer for working with an assortment of liquids.

It features a 1/2” chuck, which is quite ideal for bits with a large diameter, and it has up to 700 rpm of speed, allowing you to take advantage of more torque with better control.

You’ll like the variable speed control on the drill that has a lock button, so you don’t have to hold the trigger when drilling or mixing continually.

Another interesting feature is the forward/backward control that allows you to decide how you want to use the drill.

Also, it features an ergonomic design that is adjustable for either left- or right-handed contractors, allowing you to use your new drill with ease thanks to the 360-degree rotating handle.

What to Like About It

The VonHaus 10-Amp Heavy Duty Drill is highly versatile, which is one of its most considerable benefits since you can use it as a regular drill or as a specialty mud mixer.

It’s incredibly durable and reliable over years of use, whether you are a general contractor or a stonemason, adding to the versatility of the device.

The torque provided by the drill is immense, but it is still easy to control, especially if you’re working with heavy materials.

What Not to Like About It

It’s important to note that although this device combines a drill and mud mixer, it isn’t useful for most of the everyday tasks you would expect a drill to do.

Instead, as it takes advantage of strong torque, you’ll find it’s most useful for mixing heavy materials rather than high-speed applications.

Another disadvantage is the variable speed option seems to be lackluster, and as a result, most use it on full power; otherwise, there’s a substantial loss in speed.

PROS

• Highly versatile
• Fantastic mud mixer
• Great for low-torque applications

CONS

• Not for high-speed tasks
• Poor variable speed controls

3. DEWALT Corded Drill (DWD115K)

With a design that is beneficial for everyday and special projects, the DEWALT Corded Drill (DWD115K) could be the perfect option for someone looking to replace their existing drill.

The eight-amp motor should provide more than enough power for heavy-duty applications without being too overwhelming for the everyday handyman to put to good use.

It’s easily one of the most convenient and comfortable drills that you can add to your kit.

Product Highlights

If you were to compare the DEWALT Corded Drill (DWD115K) to any other corded drill for everyday use, you’d find that it has far more speed and power under its hood.

Not only does the device have eight amps of power, but it also has up to 2,500 RPM of speed for plenty of versatility with drilling and fastening.

You’ll also find it has a 3/8” keyless chuck made entirely from metal with a ratcheting feature so you can take advantage of superior bit retention.

Another exciting feature of this drill is that it has a mid-handle grip so you can easily hold the drill with or without gloves.

You’ll also love how soft the grip feels in your hands, helping to reduce fatigue and calluses if you have a large-scale project on the horizon.

Overall, the DEWALT Corded Drill (DWD115K) feels incredibly balanced and perfectly weighted for an assortment of projects.

The design features an all ball-bearing construction, which helps to add to the lifespan of the drill for impeccable durability.

As an added benefit, you’ll also receive a drill kit with the drill so you can easily store the tool once you’ve finished to keep it in its best possible condition.

What to Like About It

There is plenty of drilling power with this tool, and it reaches its top speed quickly, making it perfect for heavy-duty projects, such as drilling through thick materials.

With the addition of the center grip, it feels far more comfortable and balanced than some of the other DEWALT drills on the market.

Also, the trigger is perfectly designed to make it even easier to control the speed of the drill.

What Not to Like About It

Some users have noted that tightening the bit is a little more complicated than anticipated, while others find that with the high-speed design of the drill, it’s far too powerful for simple projects.

Depending on how long your project is, the heaviness of the drill could cause fatigue, so you will want to make sure you take a few breaks to let your wrist and hand relax.

PROS

• Highly powerful
• Great for heavy-duty projects
• Balanced and comfortable
• Easy to use

CONS

• Speeds could be overwhelming
• Causes hand fatigue
• Difficult to tighten bits

4. PORTER-CABLE Corded Drill (PC600D)

This speed drill is an excellent alternative to the DEWALT drill because it has similar speeds for you to take advantage of, whether you are drilling or driving.

You’ll find the PORTER-CABLE Corded Drill (PC600D) has many of the same features you’d expect from a basic drill, making it a fantastic option for everyday use.

An exciting feature of this unit is that it is available in three versions, the first being the basic drill, the second has a built-in Bluetooth speaker, and the third has an LED area light.

Product Highlights

Demanding tasks are far more straightforward with the help of the PORTER-CABLE Corded Drill (PC600D), as it has a motor that is just under seven amps.

With its power, you’ll have up to 2500 RPM of energy, and it also features a speed trigger that makes it far easier to control for more precise drilling and driving.

As an added benefit, there is an easy-to-use lock-on button that allows you to lock the speed in place for prolonged tasks.

With a 1/2” keyless chuck, you’ll find that switching bits is far simpler than with other similarly designed drills.

You’ll also like that since changing the bits is keyless, you won’t have to worry about losing any extra pieces while on the job.

Another exciting feature is that the drill weighs less than four pounds, which makes it incredibly comfortable to hold for extended periods.

At the tip of the drill, you’ll find it has a small LED light that allows you to focus on a specific area, and it also has a slim body that can easily fit into tight spaces.

What to Like About It

The variable speed control on the PORTER-CABLE Corded Drill (PC600D) is one of the easiest that you will use thanks to the precision of the trigger.

You’ll also find the trigger is fluid and predictable, which can help you to finish projects quickly and confidently.

Fortunately, the keyless chuck is also easy to use and reliable, allowing you to switch out bits without having to worry about pieces getting stuck or snagged.

What Not to Like About It

At first, you’ll find the trigger could be too sensitive, depending on your experience with previous models of drills.

Another issue you might encounter is that you cannot tighten the drill bit using the chuck, although if you’re using the correctly sized bits, this shouldn’t be of much concern.

PROS

• Variable speed control
• Precise trigger
• Reliable keyless chuck

CONS

• Cannot tighten bits
• The trigger could be sensitive

5. Metabo HPT DV13VF Corded Drill

If you’re concerned about using a 2500 RPM drill for everyday household tasks, the Metabo HPT DV13VF Corded Drill is a fantastic alternative that isn’t lacking in power, but that will prove to be a little easier to control.

With up to 850 RPM, you’ll still have plenty of power within your hands, but you’ll find the variable speed control will be easier to manage for extended periods.

There is an assortment of other fantastic features to consider, as well.

Product Highlights

The central premise behind the design of the Metabo HPT DV13VF Corded Drill is to combine torque and high-speed power for a versatile all-in-one tool.

You’ll find this drill has a maximum torque of 416 in/lb, which is ideal for high-torque applications and working with an assortment of materials.

You’ll also appreciate how it can reach speeds as high as 850 RPM, which is more than enough for most DIY projects and industrial tasks.

The specialized grip is ergonomic and can fit into your palm comfortably, allowing you to have better control over the hold with far less vibration than with other models.

You’ll also find the cast aluminum housing offers optimal durability over the years, and it helps to dissipate heat comfortably, so you won’t have to worry about overheating.

Another convenient feature is the two-finger operation that allows you to pull on the trigger easily, as well as the lock-on part for continuous use.

What to Like About It

The Metabo HPT DV13VF Corded Drill is very comfortable to use, even as a beginner who is drilling their first pilot hole.

You’ll find this drill’s control is on-par with some of the most expensive tool brands on the market, allowing you to take advantage of full torque through an assortment of materials.

You’ll also find the electric brake is incredibly convenient, allowing you to get projects finished faster without having to wait for the drill to slow down.

What Not to Like About It

If you intend to use the Metabo HPT DV13VF Corded Drill as a mud mixer, you might find its speed and torque aren’t strong enough for thick materials, such as concrete and coatings.

You’ll also find the power cord loses its flexibility in colder weather, which can make it a little more challenging to use.

Unfortunately, when switching from drilling to driving, you have to do it manually, instead of having an automatic switch.

PROS

• Very easy to control
• Convenient electric brake
• Comfortable and lightweight
• Compact

CONS

• Poor torque for mixing
• Not ideal for cold weather

Buyer’s Guide

Although drills aren’t the most expensive tool you’ll have in your kit, you’ll want to make sure you choose a device that will be easy to use and powerful enough for your most common projects.

From handling power to the amount of torque it offers, there is an assortment of essential features to take a note of when you start searching.

With this buyer’s guide, you’ll have a far better idea of what the top tier drills have to offer so that you can choose the perfect one for your needs.

1. Handle

Most people look for a drill that feels comfortable in their hands, and although that is important, it’s also crucial to consider the types of handles you can choose from.

The type of handle you choose can affect hand fatigue, control, and confidence when using your drill.

Pistol Grip

By far, drills with a pistol grip are the most common, and it’s likely a design that you’ve used in the past.

Just like its name suggests, this type of grip is shaped similarly to a pistol and is typically made from plastic or rubber to give you optimal control and comfort at the same time.

Another advantage of a pistol grip is that it can help to balance the drill based on the way you have to hold the unit, so it doesn’t feel too top- or back-heavy.

T and D Handles

D handle drills typically have the handle housed behind the motor, and its design is quite similar to what you would see with a Sawzall.

You can bet that D-handles aren’t as common as T-handles, which look exactly like the letter “T.”

Most industrial drills will have a T-handle since it’s ideal for when you have to drill downwards, and unlike D-handles, this grip will be located towards the center of the motor.

Spade Handle

You’ve likely seen a drill that advertises its spade handle, which is the perfectly shaped grip for masonry and heavy-duty applications.

With a spade handle, you’ll find an additional grip on the back of the drill that allows you to apply extra pressure without your wrist being affected by the torque.

If you are a craftsman who spends many hours using drills, a spade handle can help to prevent injury and fatigue over time while also offering optimal leverage.

2. Power and Speed

When trying to figure out how powerful you need your drill to be, the first thing to ask yourself is what you’ll be using it for.

If you’re only going to use the drill for small projects, such as hanging picture frames, you’ll need far less power and speed than if you’re completing an industrial project.

For everyday use, you will be well suited by opting for a drill that has speeds between 500 and 900 RPM with a four to eight amps motor.

Professional tradespeople who need heavy-duty equipment will find those ratings to be lacking, which is why they are better suited to high-powered drills, such as those with speeds as high as 2500 RPM.

In these drills, you’ll also find the amperage of the motor is slightly higher on the spectrum, typically between seven and ten amps.

3. Cord Length and Quality

Unlike cordless drills, you won’t have as much flexibility with a corded model unless you find one with a decently sized power cord.

Most drills come with six-foot cords, which should be long enough for most indoor projects, though you may have to swap out the stock cord for a longer one if you’re working outdoors.

Considering this feature is what will give power to the drill, you’ll also want to make sure it’s made from the best possible materials without losing flexibility and convenience.

Ideally, the power cord for your drill should also have some waterproofing, which can make the device more comfortable to use in inclement weather.

4. Hammer Function

You should be able to find specific hammer drills, but if you want to add to the versatility of your regular drill, there is the option of finding models that have a hammer component, as well.

The benefit of a hammer drill is that it hammers at the same time as it drives, which is excellent for working with thick and brittle materials, such as concrete.

To help you save more time and effort, this can be a very beneficial feature to have on hand; however, it’s not a requirement for most projects.

5. Reverse and Trigger Lock

Two additional features that you’ll be glad to have on-board are a trigger lock and reverse option when working with your drill.

Instead of having to continually hold the trigger at the perfect speed for continuous operation, the trigger lock allows you to lock in the prime rate, similar to cruise control in your vehicle.

A reverse trigger is also ideal since it can allow you to change the rotation of the bit within a matter of seconds, typically by flicking a switch or depressing a button near the trigger.

FAQs

1. Are Corded Drills More Powerful?

Although cordless drills are making huge strides and becoming more powerful over the years, corded drills are commonly seen as the more powerful option.

Since your tools will be getting power directly from an electrical socket, you won’t have to worry about undercharged batteries or the drill losing power halfway through building your boat.

You’ll also find that corded drills will likely have higher speeds for less of a cost than cordless drills since they have an endless supply of power to put to fair use.

2. Should I Buy a Corded or Cordless Drill?

Choosing between a corded and cordless drill depends entirely on the projects you get your hands on the most.

Some contractors find that cordless drills can be more convenient if you’re moving from location to location, as you won’t have to worry about managing a long power cord or continually unplugging the power to go to another room.

However, the main thing to remember is that cordless drills don’t have infinite power like corded models do, which can lessen their convenience for longer projects.

3. What Voltage Drill Should I Buy?

Instead of looking at amps, you might find drills that talk about power in terms of volts, but the same rules apply.

The lower the voltage, the less significant the drill will be, although you might not need to get your hands on heavy-duty models with high voltages.

Most homeowners can benefit significantly from drills that are four to eight volts, which should be more than sufficient for light-duty.

If you want something that can be useful for light and mid-duty projects, you’re better off opting for a drill that has between 12 and 18 volts of power.

4. How Powerful Should a Drill Be?

One of the most important things to know about drills is that they should effortlessly be able to handle tasks without you having to apply a lot of pressure or torque.

With that said, you also won’t want to choose a drill that is impossible to control, as this can cause substantial hand and wrist fatigue, if not injury, over time.

An ideal drill is a unit that you can comfortably hold in your hand, but that still reaches substantial speeds to help you drill and drive screws into a variety of materials like a knife through butter.

5. What Is the Difference Between an Electric Drill and an Impact Driver?

Sometimes, the motion offered by a regular electric drill isn’t enough to drive screws into certain materials, such as concrete and other hard materials.

This point is when impact drivers come into play, as they combine the benefits of a drill and a hammer at the same time.

When you drive a screw using an impact driver, it has the same rotational movement as a drill, but it also hammers the screw into the material.

Depending on what you’re working with, an impact driver can take a lot of time out of drilling and also make sure you make a clean and level insertion.

Final Verdict

The best corded drill is the Metabo HPT DV13VF Corded Drill due to its easy-to-use features and a moderate amount of speed.

Homeowners and DIY enthusiasts will find the torque and speed incredibly simple to take advantage of, while professional contractors will like how lightweight and balanced the drill is.

It will also feel incredibly comfortable in your hands, and thanks to its compact design, it’s easier to fit into tight spaces than with some of the other drills you’ll find.

For more drill reviews and advice, check out Boat Diaries’ blog section today. Happy drilling!