Compact DrillsBest Compact Drills

Theresa Thompson
13 min read5 days ago

Get ready to dive into the world of compact drills as we bring you an extensive roundup of the top models on the market. From powerful performance to versatile functionality, we've got you covered in this engaging and informative article. Buckle up and get ready to explore the world of compact drills like never before!

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Reviews

Milwaukee M12 Fuel Compact Drill and Driver Kit

Milwaukee M12 Fuel Compact Drill and Driver Kit | Image

The Milwaukee 3403-20 drill driver is one of the most powerful subcompact models on the market. Its POWERSTATE brushless motor provides unrivaled performance, delivering the power needed for a wide range of applications all at high speed. Designed for maximum access in tight spaces, this portable drill measures just 5.9 inches in length. The tool's battery life is also exceptional, thanks to the use of durable M12 Redlithium 2.0 and 4.0 Ah battery packs. With a top torque of 400 ft/lb, this drill driver offers the best-in-class durability and performance. The mechanical clutch provides consistent torque for driving fasteners, and the M12 system ensures full compatibility with a range of over 125 solutions.

Milwaukee Cordless 3/8" Drill/Driver - Bare Tool

Milwaukee Cordless 3/8 Drill/Driver — Bare Tool | Image

Experience the power and precision of the Milwaukee M12 Drill, designed for those who need a reliable and efficient tool. With a powerful 275-lbs. of torque, this drill delivers consistent performance for your drilling and driving needs. Its compact yet robust design makes it perfect for tight spaces, while the ergonomic handle ensures comfort during extended use. Trust the durability of the metal ratcheting chuck and the long-lasting Li-ion battery, which allows for more work per charge. Plus, the belt clip, LED light, fuel gauge, and variable speed trigger offer added convenience and control. Embrace versatility and portability with the Milwaukee M12 Drill, a powerful and reliable solution for any DIY project or professional work.

Bosch PS31-2AL Lightweight Compact Lithium-Ion Drill Kit

Bosch PS31–2AL Lightweight Compact Lithium-Ion Drill Kit | Image

This compact and lightweight drill driver is perfect for tight spaces and overhead work. With a newly developed compact duty tool design, it can handle up to 90% of common applications. The single sleeve chuck is 3/8-inch, and it features a fuel gauge for easy battery management and an LED illuminating light for continued work. With two speeds, 0-350 RPM and 0-1,300 RPM, you can easily switch between fast driving and drilling. Overall, the Bosch PS31 is an excellent choice for light-duty work and is a favorite among professionals and homeowners alike.

Milwaukee Cordless Right Angle Drill - Compact and Durable

Milwaukee Cordless Right Angle Drill — Compact and Durable | Image

Take your drilling tasks to new heights with the Milwaukee M12 Cordless 3/8 Right Angle Drill. Its slim and compact design lets you tackle projects in tight spaces without sacrificing power, thanks to the 100 in-lbs of torque it delivers. This versatile drill features an electronic clutch with 12 torque settings, providing precise control over the drilling process. The addition of an LED indicator ensures you're always aware of the drill's capabilities. If you're in the market for a powerful, lightweight right angle drill, the Milwaukee M12 is sure to impress.

Compact Cordless Impact Drill Set with Stepless Speed Control and Built-in LED Light

Compact Cordless Impact Drill Set with Stepless Speed Control and Built-in LED Light | Image

Unleash your inner DIYer with the Hoey 21V Cordless Impact Drill Driver Kit, perfect for all your household improvements, renovations, and auto repairs. This versatile drill set boasts a 45Nm torque, ensuring a solid grip on various materials from wood and metal to bricks. With a built-in LED work light, you'll never be bothered by dim lighting again. Experience ease of use with the variable speed control, and say goodbye to hassle as the keyless auto chuck guarantees a snug fit for your bits. The cordless design adds to the convenience, making it an essential companion for all your projects.

Compact DeWalt Cordless Drill for Variety of Applications

Compact DeWalt Cordless Drill for Variety of Applications | Image

Experience the power and precision of the DeWalt's Xtreme 12V MAX Cordless Drill/Driver. This compact tool, boasting a brushless motor for efficient performance, makes it perfect for a wide range of applications. With a 2-speed transmission and 15 clutch settings, it delivers the versatility needed for various tasks. The 3/8-inch ratcheting chuck accommodates different bit sizes, while the LED foot light ensures superior visibility in any work environment. Lightweight and easy to handle, the Xtreme Drill/Driver provides the power of a bigger drill in a more compact form – making it a game-changer for tight spaces and lighter-duty tasks.

Dewalt DCD777 Brushless Compact Drill Kit: Max Power, Minimal Hassle

Dewalt DCD777 Brushless Compact Drill Kit: Max Power, Minimal Hassle | Image

The Dewalt DCD777 Max Brushless Compact Drill Driver Kit is a powerful tool designed for efficient and comfortable use in a variety of applications. This cordless drill set features a DEWALT brushless motor that delivers increased run time and performance, perfect for tackling tough jobs. With a compact, lightweight design, it's ideal for working in tight spaces, while the ergonomic handle ensures optimal comfort and control. The LED light with a 20-second trigger release delay provides exceptional illumination in dark environments, ensuring visibility during use. Users have praised this drill for its powerful performance, comfortable handling, and ease of use in various projects.

Black & Decker 12V Cordless Lithium-Ion Drill-Driver: Lightweight, Easy to Use, and Compact for Home DIY Projects

Black & Decker 12V Cordless Lithium-Ion Drill-Driver: Lightweight, Easy to Use, and Compact for Home DIY Projects | Image

Experience effortless drilling with the Black & Decker 12V Cordless Lithium-Ion Drill. This lightweight and compact drill is perfect for household and DIY projects. With its mid-handle design, you'll enjoy improved balance and control. The keyless chuck makes it easy to place and swap drill bits, while the 550 RPM motor and 11 clutch positions ensure all-round performance. The drill comes with an integrated LED light that brightens up your work surface. This is a great tool for the average homeowner, handling small jobs with ease and offering a long battery life.

Blue Ridge Tools Compact Drill Set - Combo Kit

Blue Ridge Tools Compact Drill Set — Combo Kit | Image

The Blue Ridge Drill and Light, a powerhouse cordless combo, is perfect for DIYers looking to tackle any project. With a weight of just 6.25 pounds and dimensions of 9.65 inches (H) x 15 inches (W) x 4.1 inches (D), this device promises ease of use and reduced user fatigue. The 20V drill offers both forward and reverse movements, and the 3/8" chuck size combined with a max torque of 120 in per lbs make it a versatile tool. When the lights go out or you need a flashlight during drilling, this combo kit has you covered. The flashlight, complete with two interchangeable batteries, offers a bright and convenient solution for a variety of tasks, making it a must-have for every DIYer's toolbox.

DeWalt's 12V Max Xtreme Brushless Cordless Drill Kit

DeWalts 12V Max Xtreme Brushless Cordless Drill Kit | Image

This DEWALT 12-volt cordless drill kit offers efficient performance and runtime, thanks to its durable brushless motor. With a 3/8-inch ratcheting chuck and 15 clutch settings, it's perfect for a variety of applications. The compact design and ergonomic handle make it easy to use, even in tight spaces, while the LED light ensures you can see your work in low-light conditions. The two included batteries offer a generous runtime, and the kit includes a charger and tool bag, making it a convenient and essential tool for any DIY enthusiast or professional.

Black & Decker BDCD8C Compact Lithium Drill

Black & Decker BDCD8C Compact Lithium Drill | Image

Experience the convenience of DIY projects with the Black+Decker 8V MAX Lithium Drill! This compact and lightweight drill boasts a mid-handle design for balance and control, making it the perfect companion for any household task. The keyless chuck ensures quick and easy bit changes, while the LED worklight illuminates your workspace with ease. Plus, the microUSB charger offers flexibility for charging, making this drill a valuable addition to your toolkit. With a 4.2-star rating and 64 reviews, you can trust this Black+Decker model to handle your projects efficiently and effectively.

Variable Speed Close Quarters Drill by Bauer for Heavy-Duty Use

Variable Speed Close Quarters Drill by Bauer for Heavy-Duty Use | Image

With its large paddle trigger and heavy-duty keyed chuck, the Bauer 3.5 Amp Close Quarters Drill is the perfect tool for those hard-to-reach spots. It's comfortable to hold and offers ultimate control, making it easy to drill between studs and joists with ease. Despite its size and weight, the drill packs a punch, providing plenty of power to handle any project. Users appreciate the smooth motor, good finish, and quality build, even if a few minor adjustments could make it even better. Overall, this drill is an excellent choice for those who need the power of a corded tool with the added flexibility of a close quarters design.

Compact and Powerful Warrior Cordless Drill with LED Light

Compact and Powerful Warrior Cordless Drill with LED Light | Image

The Warrior Cordless 12V Drill/Driver Kit is a versatile and powerful tool for various light to moderate duty tasks. With 12 torque clutch settings and a lightweight, compact design, it makes managing heavy projects safer and more comfortable. The kit includes a 12 volt battery and charger that can be used with other Warrior 12V tools, along with an LED light to illuminate those hard-to-reach areas. Its variable speed trigger allows for precise control, and the key-less chuck ensures easy bit changes without the risk of stripping screw heads. Perfect for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike, this Warrior Drill offers exceptional value and dependability for its affordable price.

Milwaukee M12 Fuel Installation Drill/Driver Kit with 4 Dedicated Heads

Milwaukee M12 Fuel Installation Drill/Driver Kit with 4 Dedicated Heads | Image

Introducing the Milwaukee 2505-22 M12 Fuel, a versatile and powerful installation drill/driver kit. This compact 4-in-1 solution offers unmatched access and control with up to 300 in-lbs of max torque. With four dedicated heads, including a 3/8 in. chuck, offset driver, 1/4 in. hex, and right angle, this kit is designed to tackle the most challenging installations. Its unique form factor and magnetic bit holder ensure optimal tool control and increased productivity. Equipped with the Powerstate brushless motor, this drill/driver delivers 1600 rpms and 300 in. /lbs of torque, making it a go-to tool for electrical, cabinet installation, MRO, HVAC, automotive, and remodel applications. The modular design, combined with M12 Redlithium battery packs, ensures longer battery life and superior performance.

Ryobi ONE+ 18V Compact Cordless Drill Kit with 1.5 Ah Battery and Charger

Ryobi ONE+ 18V Compact Cordless Drill Kit with 1.5 Ah Battery and Charger | Image

Introducing the Ryobi ONE+ cordless 3/8 inch drill/driver kit - an incredibly versatile and lightweight tool designed to streamline home projects. Weighing an impressive 2.8 pounds, this drill is easy to handle and boasts an on-board LED worklight that ensures optimal illumination regardless of the lighting conditions. Bonus points: this drill is compatible with the RYOBI ONE+ system, which means it shares batteries with other ONE+ tools. Homeowners with existing Ryobi gear will particularly benefit from its seamless integration into their existing collection. The drill offers a variable speed trigger, resulting in a range of 600 RPM, making it more than capable of tackling materials of varying hardness levels. With the Ryobi ONE+ cordless 3/8 inch drill/driver kit, you'll be well-equipped to handle all manner of home repair and DIY tasks.

Buyer's Guide

When it comes to home improvement projects, having the right tools can save time and effort. A compact drill is an essential piece of equipment for various tasks, such as hanging pictures, assembling furniture, or making small DIY repairs. In this buyer's guide, we will discuss the important features, considerations, and general advice for selecting a reliable compact drill to cater to your specific needs.

Key Features to Look for in a Compact Drill

When shopping for a compact drill, consider the following features to ensure it suits your requirements and provides the desired performance. While you might not be able to find every feature on a single drill, making a list of priorities will help you make a well-informed decision and choose the best compact drill for your needs.

Battery Life and Rechargeable Capability

Battery life plays a significant role in the convenience and efficiency of a compact drill. Look for a drill with long battery life, as this means you will spend less time charging and more time working. A rechargeable battery is also beneficial, as it eliminates the need to buy disposable batteries. Many manufacturers offer rechargeable batteries that may be bought separately from the drill, so you can have a spare on hand.

Adjustable Clutch Settings

An adjustable clutch allows users to select the appropriate torque or rotation force based on the task at hand. This feature can help prevents damage to materials and protect delicate surfaces, as well as improve the overall user experience. Look for a compact drill that offers variable speed settings to ensure it can handle various tasks.

Weight and Ergonomics

Since a compact drill is designed to be portable and versatile, its weight and ergonomics should be given considerable attention. A lightweight drill is easier to maneuver and can be used for extended periods. Ergonomic design features, such as a comfortable grip, help prevent fatigue, minimize discomfort, and reduce the risk of hand injuries. Ensure the compact drill you choose has a balance of weight and ergonomics that suits your needs.

FAQ

What is a compact drill?

A compact drill is a portable and lightweight tool designed for drilling and driving screws in various materials such as wood, plastics, and metals. Compact drills come in different sizes and types, and they are typically battery-powered to provide portability and easy handling, making them great for construction and home projects.

Some key features of compact drills include adjustable speed settings, multiple drill bits or screwdriver bits, cordless operation, and ergonomic grip for increased control and comfort during use. They are perfect for DIY enthusiasts, professional contractors, and anyone seeking a versatile tool for light to medium-duty tasks.

What should I consider when choosing a compact drill?

When selecting a compact drill, consider the tasks you will be performing and the materials you will be working with. Look for a drill with adjustable speed settings to handle various materials effectively and with precision. Consider the drill's battery life, as extended battery operation will be beneficial for long projects. Additionally, evaluate the warranty, customer support, and reviews for the specific model before making your purchase.

Consider the tool's weight and how it feels when holding it. Ergonomic grips and a balanced design can ensure a good grip and minimize fatigue during use. Lastly, evaluate the durability and versatility of the accessories, such as included drill bits, screwdriver bits, and extension cords, to ensure you have the right equipment for your tasks.

What are the advantages of a compact drill?

A compact drill offers several advantages over traditional drills and driver screws. Its portability and lightweight design enable easy handling and quick setup. The cordless operation ensures mobility and reduced tangling, while the adjustable speeds allow for precision and versatility in working with various materials. The ergonomic grip and comfortable design provide better control and reduce user fatigue, making it suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Furthermore, compact drills provide a reliable solution for light to medium-duty tasks and projects while being easy on the budget, making them an excellent choice for homeowners, small businesses, or anyone seeking a versatile and affordable power tool that offers both functionality and convenience.

What are the popular types of compact drills?

Popular types of compact drills include corded electric drills, cordless drills, and all-in-one drill/drivers. Each type offers distinct advantages over the others, depending on the user's specific needs and preferences. Some manufacturers offer more features and customization options than others, so it's essential to research available models and read user reviews to find a drill that best fits your requirements.

For instance, corded electric drills are powerful and have a consistent power supply. However, their bulkiness requires a steady power supply and is less portable than cordless models. Cordless drills provide portability and flexibility and are easy to charge and swap batteries. Meanwhile, an all-in-one drill/driver provides multiple functions in one device, making it versatile, compact, and a cost-effective solution for many tasks. Therefore, considering the primary application and your work environment is crucial in determining the right type of compact drill for your needs.

How do I maintain and store a compact drill?

To extend the lifespan of your compact drill and ensure optimal performance, it is essential to perform regular maintenance and store it properly. Here are some guidelines for maintaining and storing your tool effectively:

  1. Disassemble the tool and clean it regularly. Keep the battery charger, cords, and drill bits free of dust and debris. 2) Lubricate moving parts as required to prevent rusting and wear.

To store the compact drill, make sure to disassemble it completely and let all components air dry. Store the battery separately, as prolonged contact with the battery terminals can cause corrosion. Organize the bits and accessories in a designated compartment or box and secure the case or bag for easy access and transportation. Lastly, store the tool in a dry and dust-free area to prevent damage and maintain its optimal performance.

What are some common mistakes to avoid while using a compact drill?

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using a compact drill:

  1. Applying too much pressure on the trigger or bit, 2) Not properly preparing the material or securing it, 3) Using incorrect drill bits or bits that are too small or damaged, and 4) Releasing the trigger before the drill has come to a complete stop or applying pressure while retracting the bit.

By following proper safety guidelines and techniques, you can avoid damages to the tool, injury, or incurring additional work. Additionally, regularly inspecting the drill and making any necessary repairs or adjustments can help maintain its optimal performance and avoid accidents. Always read the user manual and follow the manufacturer's instructions, which will include safety tips and maintenance information.

As an Amazon Affiliate, I may earn from qualifying purchases.

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