The best drill-drivers in the UK 2023

The screwdriver is essential for any DIY enthusiast, but also for professional workers. As the name suggests, this tool can be used to drill through different materials and to fix screws. If you don't have time to look for the perfect model, we offer you our selection with the Makita HP457DWE10 at the top of the list.

Makita HP457DWE10 1
9/10

Best value for your money

Makita HP457DWE10

The best drill/driver in 2021

Supplied with 71 accessories, the Makita HP 457 DWE10 is a drill/driver with a lightweight and compact design. With a power of 400 W, the device offers a power up to 3250 rpm with a motor delivering up to 205 nm.

140 £ on Amazon

The Makita HP 457 DWE10 drill is lightweight at 960 grams and comes with a set of 71 accessories to ensure versatility features and convenience. It is an impact drill/driver with metal gears with 2 speeds reaching up to 3250 rpm. It has a 13 mm single-ring self-tightening chuck with precise torque adjustment in 16 positions plus a single drilling position and another with percussion.

Powered by 18 V, 1.5 Ah, and a power consumption of 400 W, the motor delivers a torque of up to 42 Nm. The drill has an ergonomic handle with Softgrip coating for a better grip. And for better control during use, the tool includes an electric brake and a direction-reversing trigger to ensure reliability and efficiency. The tool even features a patented 3 LED ring to ensure optimal lighting in dark areas.

Einhell TC-CD 12 Li 2
7/10

Best value for your money

Einhell TC-CD 12 Li

The best entry-level drill/driver

Recharging in no time and with good battery life, the Einhell TC-CD 12 Li has incredible torque. This drill has what it takes to drill wood, concrete or metal. Its battery is housed in the handle.

36,79 £ on Amazon

The Einhell TC-CD 12 Li is the winner of the best cheap drill/driver. It stands out from its competitors thanks to its ergonomics and battery life. If you don't want to spend more than €100 on a drill/driver, this is currently one of the best choices available to you.

The Einhell TC-CD 12 Li essentially consists of a removable, one-piece self-tightening chuck. While its power output is around 12W, the device offers a minimum speed of 300 rpm, which is more than enough for routine work. In addition, you will benefit from a lightweight tool for optimal handling.

Bosch GSR 12V-15 FC 3
9/10

Best value for your money

Bosch GSR 12V-15 FC

The best high-end drill/driver

The Bosch GSR 12V-15 FC is purchased in addition to an 18V rechargeable drill/driver. In the end, this drill/driver is so efficient that you will use it more than the 18V!

169 £ on Amazon

If you're looking for a drill/driver for more regular use than the Makita or don't need the case that comes with it, the Bosch GSR 12V-15 FC is the one to turn to. It's a sturdy, more reliable drill that will last for many years as long as you take care of the chuck.

Its versatility? The Flexi-Click system is the answer. This system makes it easy to switch from one attachment to another. The Bosch GSR 12V-15 FC is also considered to be a powerful drill/driver thanks to its performance combined with its 30 Nm torque. With such a DIY equipment, access the most difficult areas with ease.

Skil 6221AA corded drill/driver 4
8/10

Excellent

Skil 6221AA corded drill/driver

The best corded drill/driver

The Skil 6221AA corded drill/driver with enhanced performance has already satisfied many do-it-yourselfers and professionals. Get the job done easily with this portable power tool with unlimited runtime.

56,44 £ on Fnac
Buying guide • November 2023

Best drill/driver

Any specific needs?

The best drill/driver in 2021

The best entry-level drill/driver

The best high-end drill/driver

The best corded drill/driver

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best drill-drivers

TOP OF THE LINE CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
Makita HP457DWE10 5
9/10
Einhell TC-CD 12 Li 6
7/10
Bosch GSR 12V-15 FC 7
9/10
Skil 6221AA corded drill/driver 8
8/10
OUR SELECTION
Makita HP457DWE10
Einhell TC-CD 12 Li
Bosch GSR 12V-15 FC
Skil 6221AA corded drill/driver
Supplied with 71 accessories, the Makita HP 457 DWE10 is a drill/driver with a lightweight and compact design. With a power of 400 W, the device offers a power up to 3250 rpm with a motor delivering up to 205 nm.
Recharging in no time and with good battery life, the Einhell TC-CD 12 Li has incredible torque. This drill has what it takes to drill wood, concrete or metal. Its battery is housed in the handle.
The Bosch GSR 12V-15 FC is purchased in addition to an 18V rechargeable drill/driver. In the end, this drill/driver is so efficient that you will use it more than the 18V!
The Skil 6221AA corded drill/driver with enhanced performance has already satisfied many do-it-yourselfers and professionals. Get the job done easily with this portable power tool with unlimited runtime.
Max. drilling torque
42 Nm
20 Nm
30 Nm
38 Nm
Speed
0-400 rpm0-1400 rpm
0 to 300 rpm0-1050 rpm
0 - 400 rpm0 - 1300 rpm
0-400 rpm0-01600 rpm
Chuck type
13 mm single-ring self-tightening chuck
One-piece removable chuck (10 mm)
10 mm automatic chuck
10 mm self-tightening chuck
Weight
1.7 kg
1.1 kg
0.8 kg
2 kg
Drilling capacity
Concrete: 13 mm - Steel: 13 mm - Wood: 36 mm
Wood: 20 mm - Steel: 6 mm
Steel: 10 mm - Wood: 19 mm
Steel: 8 mmWood: 20 mm

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Buying guide - drill/driver

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How to choose your drill/driver

Do you have several models to choose from? The choice may seem trivial, but it's essential when you consider the number of screwdrivers available. To help you make the right choice, here are the most important criteria to consider.

#1 - The power

As we have just explained to you, this is the main criterion for differentiating between screwdrivers. The tool can be used to drill and screw soft materials, wood and various metals. The higher the power, the wider the range of uses. For regular and intensive use, we advise you to choose a drill-driver with a torque of at least 40 Nm.A high power also increases the drilling capacity of the device, which is the best condition for better work on hard materials. Note that on cordless screwdrivers, only the current and voltage are displayed in the manual, or on the device. Respectively, they vary from 10.8 to 18 V and 1.2 to 3 Ah.

#2 - The percussion function

The percussion function contributes greatly to the efficiency of a drill-driver. A criterion that professionals in the industrial sector, and particularly in metal work, take into account when purchasing a device. Indeed, the percussion function is of great help, when it comes to drilling and screwing hard materials such as cinder block or stone.

#3 - The chuck

The chuck is among the key components of a drill-driver. When buying one, it's best to check its capacity. Indeed, the chuck ensures the attachment of a number of tools. On top of the range models, it holds bits, drills, milling cutters, but also the rotary brushes and the sanding plate. A 10 mm chuck, for example, needs to be paired with drills and bits of the same size to be effective. The 13 mm chuck, on the other hand, allows a maximum capacity of 13 mm in metal, but can go up to 45 mm in wood. Thanks to the Autoserrant feature, the chuck ensures quick assembly of accessories, locking them in place with a single snap.

#4 - Drilling capacity

The

drilling capacity is also something to check when buying a drill/driver. Corresponding to the maximum diameter of drilling

in various materials such as concrete, metal, or even wood, it is one of the pillars of the performance of the device. The presence of a non-slip handle would be an asset. Indeed, this one ensures an optimal grip, a sine qua non condition for results that meet all expectations.

#5 - The couple

Expressed in Nm (Newton-meter), the torque corresponds to the tightening force of the drill-driver. It is invariable on entry-level models. The top of the range models allow for adjustment, depending on the material to be worked on. In passing, this maneuver guarantees the durability of the screwdriver bits and the screw heads. Moreover, the torque is mainly used in screwing/unscrewing mode. It ensures a smooth operation, while "refreshing" the screw threads.

#6 - The safety clutch

The safety disengagement is also a guarantor of the efficiency and performance of a drill-driver. This feature disengages and then engages the percussion only after the screwdriver bits or screw heads are in contact with the material being worked on. If the drill bit or bit jams, the safety clutch disengages the gear from the chuck. It then protects the user from risks, including the sudden ejection of an accessory.

#7 - The maximum speed

The maximum speed is also a criterion of choice when it comes to drill-driver. It gives the tool a wide range of uses. Professionals swear by a high maximum speed.

#8 - Ergonomics

A comfortable, handy drill/driver is fun to use and always makes you want to do DIY. First, the drill/driver should be light enough for the user to drill and screw at height, at arm's length. Generally, the weight of this device does not exceed 2 kg, other models even go up to 1 kg. Higher-end models even have additional safety and comfort options such as a soft grip, handle, safety tips or a light. A comfortable and handy drill/driver is fun to use and always makes you want to do DIY. First of all, the drill/driver should be light enough for the user to drill and screw at height, at arm's length. Generally, the weight of this device does not exceed 2 kg, other models even go up to 1 kg. Higher-end models even have additional safety and comfort features such as a soft grip, handle, safety tips or a light.

How do I maintain a drill/driver?

The drill/driver is specifically designed for drilling and perforating hard material. You should place it in a safe and dry place when you are not using it anymore. Until the next time you use it, it will need to be maintained to ensure its longevity.

The motor: Regarding the motor, you should know that there are currently 2 main types of motors for drill/drivers: the coal model and the non-coal model. Do not wait until the coal is completely consumed before changing it. This will avoid any risk of overheating or possible breakdowns. In addition, you only need to remove the dust from the non-coal motor to clear the air ducts.

Battery or corded: If the model is powered via a mains socket, be careful not to pull on the cord when unplugging. With a cordless drill, remove the battery and store it in a safe place after use.

Parts: The chuck should be oiled regularly to increase its efficiency. On the other hand, you should clean the other parts after each use. Don't forget to check the power cord and bearings before storing the unit.

The different types of drill-drivers

While choosing a drill/driver can be a real headache, knowing the different types of models can narrow your search.

Corded drill/driver

It is a dual-purpose DIY tool. The screwdriver can be used to drill holes in materials and to screw in or out screws. Being mostly suitable for everyday use

, it can easily perform small jobs on soft materials such as wood. As the name implies, the corded drill/driver requires AC power to operate. The alternating current that flows through it provides much more drilling power. This makes it more powerful, but also more restrictive.

It is very powerful because it operates on 600 to 1,000 Wh and its versatility makes it very practical. On the other hand, it requires a mains power supply, which prevents it from being used in places without electricity. For DIY jobs around the house, opt for a corded drill/driver.

Cordless drill/driver

The

cordless drill/driver has exactly the same features as the traditional corded drill, with the only difference being that it comes with a built-in battery

, hence the name cordless. The biggest advantage of cordless tools is the freedom of movement when you are far from a power outlet.

It is very malleable and easy to use. However, admittedly, the cordless drill/driver lacks high power, which often limits its capabilities. If you need to do work outside the home and away from power outlets, this is the right drill/driver for you.

Percussion drill/driver

The

impact drill is used to work on much harder materials

like stone and brick. Thanks to the vibrations emitted towards the drill bit as well as the sustained striking rate, it allows you to drill holes going several centimeters deep. Once running, the impact drill is very noisy, which can be uncomfortable quite quickly. If you need to work with hard materials, opt for an impact driver.

Perforator

Being

a step up from the impact drill, the drill can drill

through

much stronger, harder materials

such as hard concrete or granite. Special drills called SDS drills make it an ideal tool for tackling the hardest materials. It has a higher impact rate than the impact drill, so it can drill holes to a greater depth.

With its high power, the drill can be used to drill efficiently and in a short period of time. However, it is much less versatile and lacks additional features. The drill is the ideal tool for construction professionals.

Drill press with column

As

the name implies, it is a drill to be attached to a stand, hence the need for a column. Thus, it is more considered a workshop tool

. Equipped with a plate to position the element to be drilled, it allows for precision work. Able to adapt several tools to its head, it is very versatile and can drill various materials. Its main disadvantage is its inability to be portable.

Mini screwdriver

Like the

classic drill/driver, the mini drill can be used for various jobs such as sanding or polishing. Its head can integrate different accessories depending on the model, it can easily adapt to any kind of material thanks to the ability to adjust the speed variator. Note, however, that the mini drill/driver is somewhat heavy and can therefore be difficult to handle as the hand gets tired. The mini drill/driver will do the trick if you need to do occasional small DIY jobs.

Screwdriver or impact driver?

Screwdriver

Generally speaking, the drill/driver is a portable electric tool that combines two functions in one. Corded or cordless, the device becomes a must for all self-respecting DIYers. Screwing, drilling and unscrewing will be easier thanks to its various functions. It is the right tool for various DIY jobs such as assembling or fixing a piece of furniture, changing a lock, assembling an Ikea piece of furniture, hanging a frame... Most of today's models have a variable speed that allows the machine to adapt to the type of material being worked on.

The screwdriver is very easy and comfortable to use. All you need to do is attach the drill bit or screwdriver attachment to the chuck, place the head of the accessory on the material to be drilled and switch it on. Cordless models have the ability to allow you greater freedom of movement. In particular, you can get into difficult places. On the other hand, the corded drill-driver promises unlimited autonomy because it is constantly plugged into a power outlet to function properly. The percussive DIY tool can be used to work on concrete, brick or other hard materials.

Impact screwdriver

The impact screwdriver, also known as impact wrench or bolt driver, can be corded or cordless. It is the right tool for serial screwing jobs. Its speed, efficiency, power, lightness and compactness make it a very practical and indispensable tool for every handyman, but not only... In fact, this type of power tool can be used in various other fields, including electricity, carpentry, plumbing, metalwork, etc.

With an impact screwdriver, fixing a cable tray, a frame, a ventilation duct, an insulation system, etc. will be done quickly, which saves you considerable time. The machine can be used for drilling wood or metal and promises optimum precision compared to the screwdriver. In terms of its mode of operation, the impact driver ensures tightening of the bolt through its tangential striking mechanism comprising a motor, anvil, spring and impactor.

Verdict

The impact screwdriver stands out due to its high speed and large capacity. It's the perfect choice if you plan to fasten small screws in series. On the other hand, the drill/driver better suits the needs of those looking to drill through walls or wood while taking advantage of the screwdriver function of the unit.

Why buy a drill/driver?

The screwdriver is a very popular tool on the DIY market. It must be said that it has many advantages:

It is a powerful device

A screwdriver that delivers high power is very efficient. Its range of uses is therefore extended. Among other things, the tool can be used to work on hard materials such as marble. Its high power also allows it to offer a high drilling capacity. This is essential for drilling and screwing in hard materials. On cordless screwdrivers, the power is not displayed. To assess this, you only need to refer to the current and voltage.

It is a dual-purpose device

As its name suggests, this powerful tool can be used to drill holes in the work material as well as to screw and unscrew. Assembling a piece of furniture, mounting a shelf, changing a door key will be done in the blink of an eye with unparalleled ease.

A screwdriver also has a wide range of uses. To take advantage of this, simply opt for a device with a high maximum speed. This criterion also allows you to significantly reduce the drilling and screwing time. This is the reason why professionals are so keen on such a device. Multifunctionality is also one of the many advantages of this tool, allowing the user to save a considerable amount of time and increase performance.

Versatility

All-in-one is one of the names to associate with a screwdriver. A quality that can be attributed to a chuck, especially if it has a large capacity. This key component is used to hold a whole range of tools, such as drill bits, drills, cutters, sanding plates and rotary brushes. Most models also offer the self-holding function, which ensures optimal fastening after quick assembly of the accessories.

Efficiency

The efficiency of a drill/driver depends on the availability of the percussion function. Professionals in the industrial sector swear by this decisive criterion. The percussion function is a great help even when drilling and screwing in hard materials such as cinder block or stone.

High drilling capacity

If you choose a drill/driver from the leading brands, you will benefit from a large drilling capacity. This criterion allows the machine to drill through various materials such as concrete, metal, or even wood, with the required diameter. To make the most of this drilling capacity, the grip of the device must be optimal. Therefore, it is sufficient to opt for models with a non-slip handle.

Great adaptability

The torque is very useful when screwing/unscrewing. This tightening force ensures that the operation runs smoothly, with the added bonus of reinforcing the screw threads. On top-of-the-range models, the torque is adjustable, depending on the material to be worked. It remains constant on entry-level models. However, this manoeuvre ensures the durability of the screw heads and screwdriver bits.

Peace of mind in use

The safety clutch is the key to safe operation of a drill/driver. Its primary function is to disengage and then engage the percussion once the screw heads or screwdriver bits are in contact with the material to be worked. It is also responsible for releasing the chuck gear in the event of the drill or bit jamming. This mechanism greatly reduces the risk of accidents, such as the ejection of an accessory.

The best brands of drill-drivers

In our opinion, the best brands of drill-drivers in 2022 are :

Bosch
Makita
Einhell
Black+Decker
Ryobi

Bosch is one of the most popular brands in the world of household appliances. Its screwdrivers are of German quality and are accompanied by countless innovations.

The originator of nickel and Li-ion battery powered drill/drivers, the Makita brand is one of the market leaders in the sale of power tools. Its range of screwdrivers is of impeccable quality.

A German brand that has already proven itself, Einhell specializes in the field of portable electrical appliances for gardeners and handymen. It stands out mainly thanks to its products offered at very affordable prices, including the screwdriver.

Offering mainly DIY tools and electrical appliances for the home, Black+Decker is an international reference in terms of cordless devices. It has won over its customers thanks to the quality and durability of its products, such as the screwdriver.

Ryobi designs and markets a variety of portable electric appliances such as drills and screwdrivers, lawnmowers and jigsaws. The world-famous brand stands out thanks to the quality and efficiency of its various products.

What is the price for a drill/driver

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
30 £ to 60 £
Mid-range
60 £ to 150 £
High-end
more than 150 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Oil your machine.

Like other power tools, your drill/driver has many moving parts inside and out. Oil your unit regularly, especially the chuck, which is the part that holds the drill bits.

Keep your drills in a dry place.

Always

make sure

your drill is stored in a dry place. Moisture can fog the unit, and the motor parts and chucks of the machine could rust.

Temperature requirements.

Your

drill can also be affected by the temperature in which it is stored, especially the battery. Whenever possible, the drill and batteries should be stored at room temperature (22°C) with a buffer of plus or minus 10 degrees.

Use sharp drill bits.

The

power of the machine depends on the ability of the drill bit to penetrate a surface. Using dull bits will not only fail the job, but it can burn out your machine's motor very quickly.

Cleaning your drill/driver.

When

you're working on a workpiece (such as wood), you're bound to get your tool dirty, with dust, in particular. You can use a blowing tool if you have an air compressor, otherwise a compressed air cartridge will also work well.

FAQ

How do I remove the chuck from a drill/driver?

Generally speaking, you should start by removing the screw inside the chuck. Next, take an allen wrench and start unscrewing the chuck in a clockwise direction. Finally, tap the wrench lightly and the chuck should come off the unit. Before doing this, be sure to check the instructions as the method of unscrewing may vary from brand to brand.

What is the couple?

The torque of a drill/driver is the amount of power applied when drilling or tightening. This is the first adjustment to be made before starting the machine. Generally speaking, you should choose the lowest torque when screwing and the highest for drilling, especially if you are working on a solid material such as concrete.

How do we settle this couple?

The torque is expressed in Nm and varies according to the model. Generally speaking, you will have a tightening force of 80 Nm for a corded model and 65 Nm for a cordless drill. On the device, you will have a ring with 18 to 24 positions corresponding to various hardness of materials on which we work. Thus, you choose the power of the torque according to the type of material to be drilled or screwed.

What type of drill/driver should I choose to build a wood deck?

If you are planning to build a wooden deck, it is better to choose an electrically powered model. Indeed, this type of drill-driver is easier to handle and will give you more freedom during your work. In addition, wood is an easy material to drill and screw, so you won't need the power of a corded model to work it in good conditions.

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. , leroymerlin.fr
  2. , blog.aboutbatteries.com
  3. , leblogmaison.net
  4. , perceuse-visseuse.info
  5. , castorama.fr
  6. , maisonbrico.com
  7. , moxx.fr
  8. , 11bis.fr
  9. , perceuse-visseuse.fr
  10. , nytimes.com
  11. , leroymerlin.fr
  12. , castorama.fr
  13. , bricodepot.fr
  14. , darty.com
  15. , castorama.fr
  16. , leroymerlin.fr
  17. , amazon.co.uk
  18. , manomano.fr
  19. , amazon.co.uk
  20. , lesnumeriques.com
  21. , racetools.fr
  22. , maxoutil.com
  23. , outilsdespros.fr
  24. , rueducommerce.fr
  25. , decideur.co
  26. , guedo-outillage.fr
  27. , manomano.fr
  28. , hubo.be
  29. , hilti.fr
  30. , bricozor.com
See more

Updates

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

See more
Our selection
Makita HP457DWE10 9
Makita HP457DWE10
Einhell TC-CD 12 Li 10
Einhell TC-CD 12 Li
Bosch GSR 12V-15 FC 11
Bosch GSR 12V-15 FC
Skil 6221AA corded drill/driver 12
Skil 6221AA corded drill/driver

Lecteurs

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