MILWAUKEE DRILL SET PRICE SERIES

Running the low-torque tests takes longer than the high-torque tests, so there's more time to get the feel of the tools themselves. Number of screws driven per amp hour for 12-volt brushed drills. On the opposite end of the scale, both Bosch and Ridgid seemed to have trouble exiting the boards almost every single time. Not only did Milwaukee absolutely trounce the competition, but the spade bit moved from one side of the lumber to the other with almost no snags. Here, it was Milwaukee that really showed off. There's also the breakthrough feel - how well the spade bits are able to exit the opposite side of the lumber without snagging and seizing. For the most part, all of the 18-volt drills felt strong starting this test off with a new battery, and although it did score second-to-last here, the Ryobi felt the strongest out of the gate. On this test, the numbers for the 12-volt drills are pretty low - so if you're looking to bore a lot of holes, it's probably best to stick with the 18-volt drills. I like this particular metric method because it negates the ability of a drill to win just by having a larger battery. After, I divide the number of holes drilled by the battery capacity which gives a 'holes per amp hour' data point for comparison.

MILWAUKEE DRILL SET PRICE SERIES

I use the bit to drill a series of holes into standard yellow pine construction grade lumber. Steve Conaway/CNETįor the high-torque test, I use a new 1-inch wood spade bit for each drill. Includes one 1.3-aH battery but no carrying case.Įxamples of the battery/torque testing process for 12-volt brushed cordless drills. Very low high-torque performance scores, but an attractive $50 price tag. Includes two 2-aH batteries and a hard plastic case. With comparable performance to the Bosch and Tacklife drills, the $99 Makita was good but didn't make the cut due to a higher price than the Tacklife drill, and slightly less performance compared with the Bosch. Includes two 1.3-aH batteries and a soft carrying case. Without top-level performance, I can't recommend it at that price. DeWalt performed better than average, but it was also the most expensive drill in this roundup at around $120. Includes one 1.3-aH battery, and it's the only 18-volt option with no case. Also has the lowest advertised power and speed specs.

Craftsman CMCD700C1: Cheapest 18-volt drill on the list and picked up third place in the high-torque test.

Otherwise, unless you're a brand loyalist, you can find better options. Currently at $99, this is a no-brainer if you're trying to decide between the 12- or 18-volt DeWalt drill on this list. Includes two 1.5-aH batteries and a soft case. Not enough bang for the buck as the third most expensive 18-volt drill.

Ridgid R860052K: Ridgid picked up second place in the low-torque tests and has a lifetime tool warranty.

Bosch GSR18V-190B22: See the 18-volt value pick for more insight.To keep the pricing comparison as level as possible, each of these includes the drill, a charger, one (or two) batteries and, in most cases, some kind of accessory to carry everything around.Īlong with the six drills above, here is a list of the other drills I tested, along with some context about why they didn't get the nod as best in class. You can find different bundles online and in your local big-box retailer, some with extra batteries, some with only one battery and some that are even packaged with other power tools or bare tools only. Hopefully you'll still at least have the option for the lightweight drill model.Īll of the drills I tested are brushed models that use a 12- or 18-volt battery. Soon, unless you need a smaller, lighter or less powerful tool, there will likely be no reason to choose 12-volt over 18-volt. But the price gap between 12- and 18-volt, and between brushed and brushless, continues to shrink. If you're planning on getting into more substantial work, longer use times or light construction, you're better off with an 18-volt.Īs far as price is concerned, you will typically pay more for 18- over 12-volt power tools, as well for brushless versions over brushed. If you're only assembling Ikea furniture and hanging shelves, a 12-volt drill is all you need. Otherwise, assuming this is your first cordless tool, it comes down to two main factors - performance expectation and price. That's a great reason to stick with the brand and voltage you already own, unless you specifically need different features or you're looking to switch brands. For starters, if you own other cordless tools, the best cordless drill for you is the one you could share batteries with. If you're stuck on the kind of drill to buy, the answer can be complex.

Milwaukee drill set price