The best cordless drill/drivers in the UK 2023

The cordless drill/driver does the same thing as its corded counterpart, except it's battery operated. No more problems with power cords when doing DIY work. It's easy to carry around, practical, and has great battery life and power. Want to buy one? We recommend the 5 most popular cordless drill/drivers in demand right now.

Makita HP333DSAX1 1
9/10

Best value for money

Makita HP333DSAX1

The best cordless drill in 2021

The Makita HP333DSAX1 is amazing in many ways. Powerful and reliable, it comes with 2 x 2 Ah batteries, a charger, all the drills you can imagine and a carrying case.

126 £ on Amazon

The Makita HP333DSAX1 cordless drill/driver is the Japanese giant's expertise in power tools. It weighs only 1.3 kg with the battery, which makes it easy to handle. It turns up to 1700 rpm and develops a torque of 30 Nm, impressive figures for a battery model. Given the performance of the tool and the drills sold with it, you can use it to drill through materials as tough as concrete.

The Makita HP333DSAX1 comes with 2 Li-ion batteries, a charger and, importantly, quality bits unlike others. If you have other Makita battery powered power tools, their batteries will also be compatible. The case offered allows you to store everything and makes it easy to transport.

Hychika CD190 2
7/10

Best value for money

Hychika CD190

The best entry-level cordless drill

This cordless drill/driver has a 2 Ah battery that can be charged in 1 hour thanks to the quick charge. Sold with 21 accessories, it develops a torque of 35 Nm and turns at 1500 rpm.

51,19 £ on Amazon

1500 rpm in drilling mode, 35 Nm of torque, fast charge in 1 hour... the figures speak for themselves for the Hychika cordless drill-driver. This model can drill wood and steel without difficulty. You can even drill through concrete, but take it easy! There is nothing to complain about when it comes to unscrewing: you can adjust the speed to 400 rpm max, enough for this kind of operation.

As for ergonomics, we like the grip handle as well as the LED light allowing to work in low light. Slight shadow to the picture, the manufacturer provides only one battery, a detail that makes the difference only if you plan an intensive use. As for the rest, you'll be hard pressed to find anything better at this price.

Bosch Professional GSB 18V-21 3
8/10

Best premium value for money

Bosch Professional GSB 18V-21

The best high-end cordless drill

The Bosch Professional GSB 18V-21 is aimed at professionals. But there is no reason why do-it-yourself enthusiasts can't use it! Its power and torque of 55 Nm make it one of the most efficient tools available.

167 £ on Amazon

The Bosch Professional GSB 18V-21 cordless hammer drill will meet all requirements. Powerful (65 Nm of torque), it comes with 2 batteries of 2.0 Ah to offer you a better autonomy. The L-Boxx storage box offered contains no less than 40 accessories, which will avoid additional expenses.

This complete pack, although expensive compared to the other models of the comparison, will be suitable for both drilling and screwing. Note the 13 mm chuck which gives the possibility of a more flexible use. In addition, you can easily perform your DIY work even in dark places thanks to the LED light on the head of the cordless drill-driver.

BLACK + DECKER BDCDC18BAST-QW 4
8/10

Polyvalent value for money

BLACK + DECKER BDCDC18BAST-QW

The choice of versatility

The drill/driver you're looking for needs to be powerful, compact, and come with tons of accessories so you don't have to make any additional purchases? Look no further, we've got you covered!

71,99 £ on Amazon

BLACK + DECKER is a must-have for power tools. This cordless drill-driver honors the reputation of the American brand. Indeed, it perfectly combines power and ergonomics. It has a 10-position torque control for maximum precision and a mechanical speed to cover 80% of common applications.

Don't grind your teeth when you see the 650 rpm speed. Sure, it sounds slow, but it's more than enough for any drilling or screwdriving operation. This cordless drill/driver comes with 160 accessories, including bits, a charger, drill bits and a battery. Also note the 2-year warranty for parts and labor.

Bosch EasyDrill 1200 5
9/10

Alternative value for money

Bosch EasyDrill 1200

The cheap alternative

Buy smart by choosing the Bosch EasyDrill 1200 cordless drill/driver. In its category, you will be hard pressed to find a more robust and easier to handle tool. 2 batteries are included.

75,99 £ on Amazon

When it comes to power tools, you can always count on Bosch and its Home & Garden line. This time again, the German brand has pulled out all the stops with this professional quality cordless drill/driver. Its first asset is its ergonomics. Indeed, its short head makes it possible to work in small areas, a detail which will make the difference with the DIYers and the professionals.

Moreover, its compactness and lightness are enhanced by its power. As proof, the Bosch EasyDrill 1200 can reach 400 rpm in the first gear and 1,300 rpm in the second. The maximum stroke rate is 19,500 strokes/min. In short, it's strong stuff. Note that 2 x 12V batteries that can be used on all Bosch Home & Garden products, 1 charger, 1 bit holder and 1 carrying case are included.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best cordless drill/driver

Any specific needs?

The best cordless drill in 2021

The best entry-level cordless drill

The best high-end cordless drill

The choice of versatility

The cheap alternative

Your guide : Samuel

Rate this buying guide :
4.9/54 votes

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Comparison table of the best cordless drill/drivers

TOP OF THE TOP NOT EXPENSIVE TOP OF THE RANGE Polyvalent alternative
Makita HP333DSAX1 6
9/10
Hychika CD190 7
7/10
Bosch Professional GSB 18V-21 8
8/10
BLACK + DECKER BDCDC18BAST-QW 9
8/10
Bosch EasyDrill 1200 10
9/10
OUR SELECTION
Makita HP333DSAX1
Hychika CD190
Bosch Professional GSB 18V-21
BLACK + DECKER BDCDC18BAST-QW
Bosch EasyDrill 1200
The Makita HP333DSAX1 is amazing in many ways. Powerful and reliable, it comes with 2 x 2 Ah batteries, a charger, all the drills you can imagine and a carrying case.
This cordless drill/driver has a 2 Ah battery that can be charged in 1 hour thanks to the quick charge. Sold with 21 accessories, it develops a torque of 35 Nm and turns at 1500 rpm.
The Bosch Professional GSB 18V-21 is aimed at professionals. But there is no reason why do-it-yourself enthusiasts can't use it! Its power and torque of 55 Nm make it one of the most efficient tools available.
The drill/driver you're looking for needs to be powerful, compact, and come with tons of accessories so you don't have to make any additional purchases? Look no further, we've got you covered!
Buy smart by choosing the Bosch EasyDrill 1200 cordless drill/driver. In its category, you will be hard pressed to find a more robust and easier to handle tool. 2 batteries are included.
Battery
2 x Batteries 12 V max. 2 Ah
1 x 2000m Ah 18V Battery
2 x 18 V 2.0 Ah Battery
2 x 1.5 Ah lithium batteries
2 x PBA 12V 1.5Ah O-A
Accessories
Charger; Carrying case
Charger; Belt Buckle; Tool Bag; 22 Accessories
Batteries, L-Boxx, 40 pieces
160 accessories including bits, charger, drill bits, battery
2 batteries ; GAL 1210 CV charger ; Bit holder ; Carrying case
Maximum speed
1700 rpm
1500 rpm
1800 rpm
650 rpm
1300 rpm
Drilling capacity
20 mm (wood); 10 mm (steel)
16 mm (wood); 8 mm (steel)
35 mm (wood); 13 mm (steel)
25 mm (wood) ; 10 mm (steel)
20 mm ( wood/steel/conventional brick or sand-lime)
Torque
30 Nm
35 Nm
55 Nm
30 Nm
30 Nm

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Buying guide - cordless drill/driver

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How to choose your cordless drill/driver

Choosing a good cordless drill/driver is no easy task. Apart from defining the budget to allocate to the device, you must take into account its weight and size, the type of battery that accompanies it as well as its various features.

#1 - Height and weight

Essential to your comfort needs, consider the size and weight of your cordless drill/driver. It should be ergonomic and easy to handle. If it is too light, the cordless drill will be prone to instability. On the contrary, with a heavy model, you risk tiring your arms quickly.

#2 - The battery

Prefer a cordless drill-driver with a 2.0 Ah battery at least if you want to enjoy the convenience of your machine. Note that Li-ion technology offers more lightness and performance compared to other types of batteries. Moreover, it also allows you an ultra fast charge. Some models offer a 2-battery pack so you can work longer.

#3 - The couple

Expressed in Nm (Newton-meter), the torque represents the rotational force of the cordless drill-driver motor. The higher it is, the greater its ability to drill and screw into hard materials . In most cases, the power tool comes with a ring around the chuck. This gives you the ability to adjust the torque to better suit the type of material you are working with.

#4 - The variable speed drive

It

is important to purchase equipment with a variable speed drive if you want to enjoy better efficiency. Usually progressive, it adjusts the speed according to the level of pressure you exert on the trigger. Some cordless drill/drivers have a speed selector that ranges from 800 to 3,000 rpm

on average. You will have the opportunity to tune the drilling efficiency according to the material: metal, concrete, wood...

#5 - Interesting features

In terms of additional features, you have the choice betweenLED lighting that can intervene when you work in dark areas, accessories of different sizes (drills, bits ...), a second battery offering more autonomy ...

How do I use a cordless drill/driver?

Once you've chosen your cordless drill/driver, all you need to do is learn more about how to use it. Generally speaking, both impact and non-impact models work in much the same way.

The first step is to install the appropriate bit. Whether it's a drill bit or a drill, its diameter should be selected according to the type of material you'll be working with. Place the bit properly in the bit and then tighten the tip firmly.

Next, adjust the screwing or drilling intensity using the torque adjustment ring and the speed control. This step allows you to have total control over the efficiency of the screw while avoiding the risk of cracking. Do not hesitate to check, before starting, the selected mode (screwing or unscrewing) via the notch located on the handle of the device.

Note that if, inadvertently, the screwing mode is activated while you are trying to unscrew, the bit will start to rotate without sinking into the material. Finally, position the bit against the material or screw, hold the cordless drill firmly and pull the trigger.

Cordless or corded drill/driver?

Cordless drill/driver

The cordless drill-driver is a great asset for amateur or professional DIYers. Used mainly for screwing and drilling, hence its name, the portable electric device ensures optimum safety for the user. It is relatively easy to use. The same applies to its handling. Depending on the manufacturer, the machine may or may not come with a battery. Some are even equipped with 2 batteries so that you can benefit from a good autonomy.

It can work just as well on wood as on metal, whose drilling and screwing efficiency depends on the material in question. Although it is not recommended for drilling concrete or stone, the percussion model will allow you to carry out these types of work in the greatest comfort. Cordless and lightweight, the tool can be carried anywhere. You will be able to access difficult places or work in complete peace of mind when there is a power source.

Corded drill/driver

This type of drill-driver is powered by a mains socket. Therefore, its autonomy is unlimited and allows you to work for a long time. In addition, it is perfectly suited to intensive use. It is much more powerful than the cordless model and is therefore ideal for use in workshops or on building sites.

The biggest disadvantage of the corded drill/driver is that you need to be near an electrical source to use it. Often, the DIY tool has a percussion function that allows you to drill or screw into hard materials such as concrete, cinder block, etc. On the other hand, due to its weight, it is rather heavy and cumbersome.

Verdict

The cordless drill/driver is a very light and handy power tool, powered mainly by a rechargeable battery. Its autonomy depends on the voltage and intensity of its power source. It is usually used for routine work such as assembling a furniture kit and drilling or screwing in hard-to-reach places. It is the right tool if you want more flexibility and freedom of movement.

The corded drill-driver offers more power. Those with a percussion function will manage to drill through concrete without too much effort. Are you working on a construction site or just planning to do some DIY in your garage? Choose this type of model.

Tips

Pre-drill for easier installation

The pre-drilling phase is essential if you want the screw head to sink properly into the material. To do this, make a hole of a few millimeters with a small drill bit before proceeding with the screwing.

Get used to your cordless drill/driver

Use

your cordless drill/driver as many times as you can to get used to it. After all, professionalism only comes with practice. Practice your DIY skills by putting a frame on the wall, assembling furniture...

Prepare the substrate properly

Before

you start your work, check that there is nothing behind the wall you want to drill (gas pipe, water pipe or electrical wire). A metal detector will do the trick. In the case of moving material, simply secure it to a stable surface with a clamp.

Adopt the right gestures when drilling

You

should always mark the location to be drilled. Don't turn the unit on full speed right from the start. Your hole may be uneven. It's a good idea to let the cordless drill run for a few seconds after drilling. Then release the trigger to stop the machine. Allow the drill to cool completely and then remove it.

Peel your fruit faster

With

a cordless drill/driver, peeling fruit becomes simple. For this tip, you'll need a drill, a peeler, and a spade bit. Start by inserting the spade bit into the chuck. Attach the fruit to the bit and start the device. Place the peeler nearby for easy peeling.

FAQ

What is the best cordless drill/driver?

The best cordless drill/driver depends on your needs and budget. Read our buying guide for the best products available.

What are the safety rules that must be respected?

For all DIY work, it is strongly recommended to always wear protective glasses and gloves. This will prevent you from getting splinters of wood, metal or concrete in your eyes or from piercing your fingers.

How do you know if the selected torque and speed are appropriate?

To find the right setting, we advise you to start with the lowest speed, as well as the torque, and increase them gradually.

What is the purpose of the torque ring?

The torque ring often has 18 to 24 positions. By turning the ring, you can vary the power of the torque according to the hardness of the material to be drilled.

What is the average charge time of a cordless drill/driver?

The charging time of the battery of a cordless drill varies from 15 to 180 minutes.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. , jardinage.lemonde.fr
  2. , experts-insitu.com
  3. , tdi.fr
  4. , deco.fr
  5. , maison.20minutes.fr
  6. , skil.fr
  7. , wikihow.com
  8. , quechoisir.org
  9. , maisonbrico.com
  10. , t3.com
  11. , leroymerlin.fr
  12. , castorama.fr
  13. , amazon.co.uk
  14. , manomano.fr
  15. , lesnumeriques.com
  16. , leroymerlin.fr
  17. , bricodepot.fr
  18. , cdiscount.com
  19. , lidl.fr
  20. , rueducommerce.fr
  21. , outilsdespros.fr
  22. , decideur.co
  23. , master-outillage.com
  24. , castorama.fr
  25. , hilti.fr
  26. , mediaseine.fr
  27. , skil.fr
  28. , fnac.com
  29. , perceuse-visseuse-sans-fil.com
  30. , manomano.fr
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
Makita HP333DSAX1 11
Makita HP333DSAX1
Hychika CD190 12
Hychika CD190
Bosch Professional GSB 18V-21 13
Bosch Professional GSB 18V-21
BLACK + DECKER BDCDC18BAST-QW 14
BLACK + DECKER BDCDC18BAST-QW
Bosch EasyDrill 1200 15
Bosch EasyDrill 1200

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