Whether you're hanging a mirror, assembling furniture, or if you’re commonly handling specialized tasks like tapping, countersinking, and counterboring a good drill can make all the difference.
When deciding on the Best DeWalt Drill for your work, consider its usage, advantages, disadvantages, and features. We’ll explore top recommendations across these six categories:
Best 20V Max Hammer Drill/Drill
Best 20V Max Atomic Compact Drill
Best 12V Max Drill
Best value for your money
Top choices for contractors
Best combo kit
From weekend warriors tackling home projects to professional contractors in need of reliable tools, we’ve got you covered with our best DeWalt drill recommendations.
Best 20V Max Drill/Hammer Drill
The DeWalt 20V MAX FLEXVOLT 1/2" Hammer Drill/Driver
The DeWalt 20V MAX FLEXVOLT 1/2" Hammer Drill/Driver provides up to 42% more power with FLEXVOLT batteries and offers a spotlight mode that extends work time with its 20-minute shutoff function. It also connects easily to DeWalt’s Tool Connect Chip Ready ( DCE042 Chip sold separately), giving you easy asset management access.
Features
Compatible with all DEWALT 20V MAX and FLEXVOLT batteries
Great Bit Grip: Heavy-duty 1/2 in. ratcheting nitro-carburized metal chuck with carbide inserts for superior bit gripping strength
20x Brighter LED: 3-mode LED provides lighting in dark or confined spaces up to 20x brighter than the DEWALT DCD985
Extended Work Time with LED : Spotlight mode features a 20-minute shutoff function, allowing for extended work time in dark or confined spaces
Optimize Tool to Task with 3-speed transmission
Pros
Increased Power and Extended Work Time: With FLEXVOLT technology, this drill/hammer drill offers up to 42% more power when paired with FLEXVOLT batteries.
Heavy-Duty Chuck: The heavy-duty 1/2-inch ratcheting nitro-carburized metal chuck with carbide inserts provides superior bit gripping strength, ensuring your bits stay in place during prolonged use.
Tool Connect Compatibility: This drill is Tool Connect Chip Ready, allowing for easy asset management on the job site when paired with the Tool Connect Site Manager app and the DCE042 chip (sold separately).
Adjustable Speed: A 3-speed transmission modifies the tool for the task at hand, giving you more control and precision.
Cons
Additional Purchase Required: You'll need to purchase the DCE042 chip separately to utilize the Tool Connect feature for asset management.
Price Point: Due to the drill's advanced brushless motor, the price may be higher than brushed competitors, though the advantages, depending on your job, could be worth it.
Best 20V Max Atomic Compact Drill/Hammer Drill
The DeWalt DCD799B ATOMIC COMPACT SERIES 20V MAX Brushless Cordless 1/2" Hammer Drill
Our best pick for compact drills is the DeWalt 20V MAX Atomic Compact Hammer Drill. This compact hammer drill measures just 6.49 inches in tool head length, making it the shortest 20V MAX Hammer Drill available. With up to 14% more power and 1,650 RPMs, you can easily drill into brick, masonry, concrete, and even rock.
Features
Powerful but in a compact size with 552 UWO† and up to 28,050 BPMs to handle long, strenuous jobs in small spaces.
Light up dark workspaces with the on-tool LED work light.
Pros
High Bit Retention: Featuring a 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck, this DeWalt drill ensures high bit retention and is able to reduce the risk of slippage, which keeps your drill bits in place during operation.
Compact: Built for compact, small spaces, as the shortest 20V MAX hammer drill, it ensures that you can drill in any tight space without a problem.
Battery Compatibility: Compatible with the 20V MAX battery system, this compact drill offers flexibility and convenience. While the batteries and chargers are sold separately, this compatibility means that if you already own a DeWalt 20V MAX compatible battery or charger, you can integrate this drill into your system without needing additional accessories.
Cons
Battery and Charger Not Included: While this drill is compatible with the 20V MAX battery system, you must purchase batteries and chargers separately.
Tool-Head Length: While the compact design is beneficial for accessing tight spaces, it's not beneficial for high-demand industrial drilling applications.
Best 12V Max Drill/Hammer Drill
The DeWalt DCD706B 12V MAX* Brushless 3/8" Cordless Hammer Drill
For the best 12V MAX Drill, we’ve chosen the DeWalt 12V MAX Brushless Cordless Hammer Drill , as it’s both compact and powerful. With a brushless motor and a 2-speed transmission, this drill provides improved work performance in many drilling applications. Overall, this DeWalt hammer drill is lightweight at just 2.3 lbs and is easy to maneuver, even with a max power of 250 UWO and 25,500 BPM.
Pros
Clutch Settings : This drill offers 15 clutch settings that give you better control over the entire drilling process, no matter the job.
Enhanced LED Light Visibility : Reduce the risk of accidents when working in dimly lit areas with this hammer drill that comes equipped with an LED footlight.
Cons
Battery and Charger Not Included : Batteries and chargers are sold separately with all bare tools, which means additional costs if you don't already own compatible ones for the DeWalt 12V MAX system.
Drill Bit Compatibility : Though this drill is able to handle a variety of drilling tasks, the ratcheting chuck is only ⅜-inch. If you require a ½ ratcheting chuck, you’ll need to size up.
Limited Reach : The tool length of 6.6 inches may limit reach on specific jobs, especially if you need to drill deep holes or reach into confined spaces.
Best Budget Friendly
The DeWalt DCD800B 20V MAX* XR Brushless Cordless 1/2" Drill/Driver
For the best budget-friendly drill, we’ve chosen the DeWalt DCD800B 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless Drill, as it can handle heavy-duty tasks but also keeps costs down in the long run. It offers a brushless motor, boasts up to 40% more UWO than its predecessor, and is easier to maneuver around the jobsite.
Features
Access hard-to-reach work areas: This drill is compact at 6.37 in. size and is 1/2 in., shorter in length than the DCD791 drill.
High bit retention with 1/2 in. metal ratcheting chuck.
Pro-level speed, control, and precision: It offers a high-speed transmission with a variable trigger and two-speed settings (0-650/0-2,000 rpm).
Light up dark jobsites: With an adjustable 3-position, 3-mode LED that has up to 70 lumens, extend your work time in low light. It also includes an LED spotlight mode and a 20-minute shutoff function.
ToolConnect Manager Integration: Drill/driver chip pocket accepts Tool Connect chip DCE042 and connects with Tool Connect Site Manager app for seamless worksite asset management (DCE042 sold separately).
Pros
Budget-Friendly: The DeWalt DCD800B 20V MAX XR Drill/Driver offers an affordable price along with steady, powerful drilling without breaking the bank.
Compact Design: Its compact size of 6.37 inches, half an inch shorter than its predecessor, allows for easy maneuverability and access to tight work areas, enhancing overall efficiency.
- Tool Management: Its compatibility with the Tool Connect chip DCE042 allows for seamless tracking and management of tools at the jobsite, enhancing organization and efficiency.
Cons
Battery and Charger Sold Separately: The DCB205 battery or DCBP034 DeWalt POWERSTACK battery required for achieving maximum performance is sold separately.
Power : Though powerful, this budget-friendly DeWalt option may not be as powerful as its full-size counterparts.
Tool Head Reach: The compact size of the DCD800B 20V MAX XR Dewalt Drill/Driver may not be long enough for other specific drilling jobs.
Best for Contractors
The DeWalt DCD791D2 20V MAX XR Li-Ion Brushless Compact Drill/Driver Kit
For contractors, we’ve chosen DeWalt’s DCD791D2 20V MAX XR Li-Ion 1/2" Compact Drill/Driver Kit because it’s compact and has features like a high-speed transmission with 2-speed settings. This drill also includes a brushless motor that generates 57% more runtime and XR Li-Ion batteries with a fuel gauge for 33% more capacity.
Features
Compact Design : This drill measures 6.9 inches from front to back and has a lightweight build of 3.4 pounds, making it perfect for fitting into tight spaces.
Ergonomic Grip : With an ergonomically crafted comfort grip handle, this drill makes sure that you have optimal balance and control over your projects.
Ratcheting 1/2 Chuck : This DeWalt 20V MAX XR Compact Drill/Driver kit includes a metal 1/2" ratcheting chuck for superior bit gripping strength.
Pros
Brushless Motor Efficiency: Featuring a brushless motor that offers up to 57% more runtime compared to brushed motors, this DeWalt drill kit allows contractors a better investment in their money.
Compact and Lightweight with a Comfortable Design: At 6.9 inches long and 3.4 pounds, the DeWalt DCD791D2 is compact and lightweight enough for jobs in small spaces. The drill's grip is designed for the comfort of professionals during long hours and reduces hand strain, which increases overall productivity.
Kit Availability : With this kit, contractors can have everything they need all in one place. You do not have to purchase the battery or the charger with this kit and it comes with a kit box for your convenience.
Cons
Overall Price: While the DeWalt DCD791D2 kit offers advanced features and includes the battery and charger, it may be more expensive than other similar models with just a bare tool in the market.
Learning Curve for Variable Speed Trigger: While offering precise control, the sensitive variable speed trigger may require some adjustment and practice for users accustomed to traditional on/off switches.
Looking for the same type of drill/driver for contractors but just as a bare tool? Check out DeWalt’s DCD805B 20V Max XR Brushless Cordless 1/2" Hammer Drill/Driver.
Best Drill Combo Kit
DeWalt DCK299D1W1 20V MAX Power Detect Combo Kit
Our best DeWalt combo kit is the DCD998 kit. This combo kit includes the DCD998 Hammer Drill, which uses the 20V MAX 8Ah battery that produces up to 29% more power. Another piece in the kit is the DCF887 Impact Driver, which has an impressive torque even with its compact and lightweight design.
Hammer Drill/Driver DCD998 Features
Boost Drill Power: The hammer drill/driver uses the 20V MAX 8Ah battery to increase drill power output by up to 29%.
Heavy-Duty 1/2 in. ratcheting nitro-carburized metal chuck: This metal chuck comes with carbide inserts, which helps keep grip strength strong.
3-Mod LED: This kit helps professionals work in dark or confined spaces because it includes a 3-mode LED with a spotlight mode for extended work time in these conditions.
3-speed, High-Performance, All-Metal Transmission: These features help optimize tool-to-task for faster application speeds and improve productivity, especially for drilling in masonry.
Impact Driver DCD887 Features
Max torque of 1,825 in-lbs at 0-3,250 rpm and 0-3,600 impacts per minute
Compact Size: The compact size is 5.3 in. front-to-back in length and lightweight design (3.4 lbs) which helps with jobs in confined spaces like attics.
Fast Charger DCB118 Features
Fan-cooled charger compatible with 20V MAX batteries and FlexVolt 20V/60V MAX batteries.
Offers a charge rate of 8 amps for premium batteries and 4 amps for compact batteries.
Pros
Durable Chuck Design : The DCD998 features a heavy-duty 1/2-inch ratcheting nitro-carburized metal chuck with carbide inserts, which increases bit gripping strength while reducing the likelihood of slippage or accidents during operation.
High Torque Impact Driver : The DCF887 Impact Driver boasts 1,825 in-lbs of max torque, providing advanced power for different fastening jobs. Its compact and lightweight design also makes it easy to move around and in tight spaces.
Combo Kit: This kit includes all essential tools like the hammer drill, impact driver, batteries, charger, and kit bag. It provides everything you need to handle different projects without having to purchase items separately.
Cons
Heavier Build: While the DCD998's heavy-duty construction is great for jobs that need durability, it may also contribute to its heavier overall weight. This heavier weight could potentially cause more user fatigue during extended runtime use.
DeWalt Drill Bit Sets
Though the drill is important for professionals on the job, having the right accessories is needed to keep everything running smoothly. These DeWalt drill bit sets below are some of our best selections.
DeWalt DWA1269 29-Piece Pilot Point Industrial Cobalt Alloy Steel Drill Bit Set 1/16" - 1/2"
For maximum speed on tough and hard metals, the DEWALT DWA1269 29-Piece Pilot Point Industrial Cobalt Alloy Steel Drill Bit Set 1/16" - 1/2" is one of the best choices. These bits feature pilot point tips for accurate drilling and no-bit walking. With sizes ranging from 1/16" to 1/2" and a Titanium Nitride Coating, this drill bit set works for both industrial use and home projects.
DeWalt DD5160 10-Piece Set Titanium Twist Drill Bit Set
Need a drill bit set that can drill in both metal and wood? This DeWalt DD5160 10-Piece Set Titanium Twist Drill Bit Set includes titanium-coated drill bits that are designed for high-performance drilling in several materials, even fiberglass and PVC pipe. With sizes ranging from 1/8" to 3/8", these drill bits are constructed from a solid one-piece design, and according to DeWalt they are up to five times more durable than conventional two-piece bits.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a DeWalt Drill
When it comes to selecting the right DeWalt drill for your needs, there are several key factors to consider. Let's break them down
Power and Performance
Voltage Options: DeWalt offers different voltage options for their drills, including 12V, 18V, and 20V Max. Choosing the right voltage is important because voltage directly impacts the drill's power output.
Motor Type: Whether you want a brushless motor or a brushed, determining what is right for you is the best bet. Most drills offer brushless versions which increase productivity with less maintenance and are more efficient.
Battery Life and Charging Time: Consider the battery's runtime per charge and charging time, especially for longer projects.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Grip Design and Handle Ergonomics: Look for drills with ergonomic grip designs that provide comfort during extended use.
Weight Distribution: Consider drills with balanced weight distribution to reduce fatigue, especially for overhead or prolonged drilling tasks.
Making Your Final Drill Decision
From the 20V Max series to the compact atomic models, choosing the right DeWalt drill can seem challenging, but with this guide of features and benefits for specific drills, we make it easy for you. Whether you need a budget-friendly option or an advanced contractor drill for daily jobs, there is a DeWalt drill that fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my impact driver as a drill?
Yes, you can. To do so, you can either use impact-ready bits or utilize a DW0521 adapter to convert the 1/4" hex shank chuck to a 3-jaw 3/8" drill chuck. It's worth noting that the speed range of impact drivers, typically ranging from 2400 to 2800 maximum revolutions per minute (rpm), may exceed that of a traditional drill, depending on the model.
How does UWO compare to torque ratings on DEWALT Cordless Drills?
DEWALT now uses Unit Watts Out (UWO) instead of torque for power assessment. UWO measures the maximum power output, factoring in system efficiency at the chuck. A drill's Power Rating is determined by its UWO, indicating peak speed and torque. Higher UWO means faster performance on the job.
What is the POWER DETECT feature of the DCD998 hammer drill/driver?
The DCD998 hammer drill/driver is equipped with POWER DETECT tool technology, which maximizes performance when used with high-capacity XR batteries. This feature allows the drill to output up to 29% more power when paired with a 20V MAX 8.0Ah battery compared to using a DCB205 battery.
How does the high-speed transmission feature benefit users?
The DeWalt DCD800 B's high-speed transmission feature provides users with pro-level speed, control, and precision. With variable trigger and 2-speed settings (0-650/0-2,000 rpm), users can adjust the speed according to the task at hand, allowing for greater versatility and efficiency in drilling and fastening applications.
