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10 Best Lightweight Cordless Drills 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 2 Batteries and Charger Included (DCD771C2)

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,250
Battery Type
Speed and Torque Settings
Ergonomics

Most important from
49077 reviews

Battery Type
The kit comes with two 2Ah batteries that last a long time, allowing multiple projects on a single charge.
Speed and Torque Settings
The drill's two-speed settings make it perfect for both indoor and outdoor projects, delivering consistent power and performance.
Ergonomics
The design is sturdy yet comfortable to hold, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Additional Features
The built-in light is incredibly helpful for drilling in dimly lit areas.

The DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit stands out in the lightweight cordless drill category, making it an excellent choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for portability and power. At just under 3.5 pounds, its compact design allows it to easily fit into tight spaces, which is a significant advantage for various projects around the house or on job sites. The high-performance motor, delivering 300 unit watts out (UWO), ensures you have enough power for a wide array of tasks, from straightforward drilling to more demanding applications.

One of the key features is its high-speed transmission with two speed settings (0-450 and 1,500 RPM), offering versatility for different drilling and fastening tasks. The 1/2 inch single sleeve ratcheting chuck provides secure bit gripping, reducing the risk of slipping during use. This adds to its reliability, making it suitable for both heavy-duty and light tasks.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While the ergonomic handle is designed for comfort, some users might find it a bit bulky for prolonged use, especially in tight spots. Additionally, while the 1.3Ah battery included in the kit is decent, those who require extended runtime for larger jobs may need to invest in additional or higher capacity batteries. The charging time can also be a point of patience if you frequently switch tasks.

The DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit is a solid choice for anyone looking for a lightweight and powerful drill. It's particularly suited for users who value portability and versatility, but it might not be the best fit for those needing extra battery life for extensive work sessions.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,250
Battery Type
Speed and Torque Settings
Ergonomics

Most important from
49077 reviews

Battery Type
The kit comes with two 2Ah batteries that last a long time, allowing multiple projects on a single charge.
Speed and Torque Settings
The drill's two-speed settings make it perfect for both indoor and outdoor projects, delivering consistent power and performance.
Ergonomics
The design is sturdy yet comfortable to hold, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Additional Features
The built-in light is incredibly helpful for drilling in dimly lit areas.
#2

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, Brushless, Compact, with 2 Batteries and Charger (DCD800D2)

Rating
9.6
Battery Type
Speed and Torque Settings
Ergonomics

Most important from
720 reviews

Battery Type
Batteries last a surprisingly long time, even in cold weather.
Speed and Torque Settings
The clutch is smooth with a real range, providing excellent control.
Ergonomics
This drill/driver is powerful and compact, making it perfect for tight spaces.
Additional Features
The LED light is bright and genuinely useful for dark work areas.

The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Drill/Driver Kit (DCD800D2) is a compact and lightweight option, weighing in at 6.16 pounds. It's designed for ease of use, especially in tight and hard-to-reach areas given its compact 6.37-inch length. The brushless motor provides efficient performance, and the 20V lithium-ion batteries (two included) ensure longer run times and quicker recharges.

The drill offers a maximum voltage of 20V and a high-speed transmission with two settings (0-650/0-2000 RPM), which is suitable for a variety of drilling tasks. It also features a 1/2 inch metal ratcheting chuck that ensures high bit retention, making it reliable for pro-level applications. The 1400 foot-pounds of torque also add to its power, making it capable of handling tough jobs.

The ergonomic design, with adjustable 3-position LED lighting, enhances user comfort and visibility in dark work areas. The kit includes a charger, a kit bag, and a belt hook. However, at 6.16 pounds, it may still feel a bit heavy for users looking for the lightest model available. Additionally, while the maximum rotational speed of 2000 RPM and 1400 foot-pounds of torque are impressive, some casual users might find it overpowered for simple, everyday tasks. This drill is best suited for professionals or serious DIY enthusiasts who need a durable and powerful tool that can handle a range of demanding applications.

Rating
9.6
Battery Type
Speed and Torque Settings
Ergonomics

Most important from
720 reviews

Battery Type
Batteries last a surprisingly long time, even in cold weather.
Speed and Torque Settings
The clutch is smooth with a real range, providing excellent control.
Ergonomics
This drill/driver is powerful and compact, making it perfect for tight spaces.
Additional Features
The LED light is bright and genuinely useful for dark work areas.
#3

BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* POWERCONNECT Cordless Drill Kit + 100 pc. Kit (BDC120VA100), Orange

The BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* POWERCONNECT Cordless Drill Kit is a versatile tool suitable for various household tasks. It features a lightweight design, weighing 6.07 pounds, which makes it relatively easy to handle. The lithium-ion battery is a strong point as it holds a charge for up to 18 months, ensuring the drill is ready whenever needed. This drill operates on a 20-volt system, providing decent power for most DIY projects.

The maximum rotational speed of 650 RPM and the torque of 300 inch-pounds are adequate for general use but might fall short in demanding applications. The drill includes a 24-position clutch, which is beneficial for preventing the stripping and overdriving of screws, offering added control during use. Ergonomically, it features a soft grip handle that enhances comfort during prolonged tasks.

The kit comes with an array of accessories, making it a practical choice for those who need a comprehensive set of tools. However, it should be noted that the chuck size is 10 millimeters, which limits the size of bits that can be used. Additionally, the drill operates at two speeds, which might not be sufficient for more specialized tasks requiring variable speed control. Despite these limitations, its compact and cordless nature, along with the included 100-piece accessory kit, makes it a valuable tool for everyday use and a good fit for users looking for a reliable, lightweight cordless drill.

Buying Guide for the Best Lightweight Cordless Drills

Choosing the right lightweight cordless drill can make your DIY projects and home repairs much easier and more efficient. When selecting a cordless drill, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get a tool that meets your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your tasks.
WeightWeight is a crucial factor in a lightweight cordless drill, as it affects how easy and comfortable the drill is to use, especially for extended periods. Lightweight drills typically range from 2 to 4 pounds. If you plan to use the drill for long durations or overhead tasks, a lighter model will reduce fatigue. However, ensure that the lighter weight does not compromise the drill's power and durability.
Battery TypeThe battery type determines the drill's runtime and charging time. Most modern cordless drills use Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) batteries, which are lighter, have a longer lifespan, and provide consistent power compared to older Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries. When choosing a drill, look for one with a Li-Ion battery for better performance and convenience. Consider the battery capacity (measured in ampere-hours, Ah) as well, with higher Ah providing longer usage between charges.
VoltageVoltage indicates the power of the drill. Common voltages for lightweight cordless drills range from 12V to 20V. Lower voltage drills (12V) are suitable for light-duty tasks like assembling furniture or drilling into soft materials. Higher voltage drills (18V or 20V) offer more power for tougher tasks like drilling into masonry or metal. Choose the voltage based on the type of projects you plan to undertake.
Chuck SizeThe chuck size determines the maximum diameter of the drill bit that can be used. Common chuck sizes are 3/8 inch and 1/2 inch. A 3/8 inch chuck is sufficient for most household tasks and is typically found on lighter drills. A 1/2 inch chuck can handle larger bits and is better for more demanding jobs. Consider the types of bits you will use and the nature of your projects when selecting the chuck size.
Speed and Torque SettingsSpeed and torque settings allow you to adjust the drill's performance based on the task. Speed is measured in rotations per minute (RPM), with higher speeds suitable for drilling and lower speeds for driving screws. Torque, measured in inch-pounds (in-lbs), indicates the drill's twisting force. Adjustable settings let you match the speed and torque to the material and task, providing better control and precision. Look for a drill with multiple speed and torque settings to handle a variety of jobs.
ErgonomicsErgonomics refers to the design and comfort of the drill. A well-designed drill with a comfortable grip and balanced weight distribution reduces strain and makes it easier to handle. Features like a rubberized handle, compact design, and easy-to-reach controls enhance usability. When choosing a drill, consider how it feels in your hand and whether it is comfortable to use for extended periods.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the functionality and convenience of the drill. These may include built-in LED lights for better visibility in dark areas, a battery level indicator, a keyless chuck for quick bit changes, and a belt clip for easy carrying. While not essential, these features can make your work easier and more efficient. Consider which additional features are important to you based on your specific needs and preferences.

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