10 Best Brushless Cordless Drills (October 2026)

The best brushless cordless drills include the Makita XFD131 18V LXT Brushless Driver-Drill Kit for balanced home projects, the Milwaukee 3601-20 M18 Compact Brushless Drill/Driver (Tool Only) for confined workspaces, and the Skil PWR CORE 20 Brushless 1/2 in. Drill Driver Kit (DL6280B) for controlled screw driving.

On this page (8 sections)

1. Which brushless cordless drill fits your work?
2. The best brushless drills for different needs
3. How should you choose a brushless drill?
4. How do you set up a new drill for a job?
5. What care helps a cordless drill last?
6. What common cordless drill mistakes should you avoid?
7. Which brushless cordless drill should you choose?
8. Related brushless drill guides

The Makita XFD131 is the best brushless drill for most buyers here, with a 2-speed transmission, 440 in-lb of stated torque, a 3.0Ah battery, charger and tool bag. Choose Metabo HPT for a compact kit with two batteries, or Greenworks for the highest stated torque.

A brushless motor is one part of the choice. Battery platform, drill size, speed control and what comes in the kit can matter just as much for the work you plan to do.

Use our cordless drill buying guide to compare voltage, clutch settings and kit contents. If you want to compare drill categories before choosing a motor type, see our drill types guide.

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for balanced home projects

   Makita XFD131 18V LXT Brushless Driver-Drill Kit

   8.8/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for confined workspaces

   Milwaukee 3601-20 M18 Compact Brushless Drill/Driver (Tool Only)

   8.0/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for controlled screw driving

   Skil PWR CORE 20 Brushless 1/2 in. Drill Driver Kit (DL6280B)

   7.9/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Compact Brushless Drill/Driver Kit

   Best for ONE+ tool owners
   Check it
5. 5

   Metabo HPT DS18DEX 18V MultiVolt Brushless Driver Drill Kit

   Best for a spare-battery setup
   Check it
6. 6

   Craftsman V20 Brushless RP CMCD714D1 Drill Driver Kit

   Best for short-head access
   Check it
7. 7

   Flex 24V Brushless 1/2 in. Drill Driver Kit (750 in-lbs)

   Best for demanding drilling
   Check it
8. 8

   Greenworks 24V Brushless 1/2 in. Drill with 4.0Ah Battery

   Best for longer work sessions
   Check it
9. 9

   Skil PWR CORE 20 Brushless Flip Drill Driver Kit

   Best for frequent bit swaps
   Check it
10. 10

    Black+Decker 20V MAX Brushless 1/2 in. Drill Driver with Bit Sets

    Best for starter bit variety
    Check it

Which brushless cordless drill fits your work?

The Makita is the most balanced pick in this group, while the other drills suit needs such as compact access, high stated torque or included accessories. Start with your work area and battery system, then compare torque and kit contents.

We compared the listed features, sizes, torque figures and included items against common drilling and fastening needs. The score reflects how closely those features fit common buyer priorities.

The best brushless drills for different needs

These picks cover standard drill kits, compact tools and a flip-head design. Choose a standard chuck if you often change bits, or consider the flip head if you switch between a drill bit and a driver bit during the same task.

1

Makita XFD131 18V LXT Brushless Driver-Drill Kit: Best for balanced home projects

8.8/10Our score

• 440 in-lb max torque
• 2-speed transmission
• 3.0Ah battery and charger included

A 2-speed drill with a 3.0Ah battery, charger and tool bag. Its stated torque and 0–1,900 RPM top speed suit a range of drilling and fastening tasks.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Battery, charger and tool bag included
• Two speed ranges
• Compatible with Makita 18V LXT batteries

Cons

• The kit includes one 3.0Ah battery
• Not the highest stated torque in this group

The Makita XFD131 is the most balanced choice for buyers who want a complete kit and a standard 1/2 in drill chuck. Its 440 in-lb max torque and two speed ranges, 0–500 and 0–1,900 RPM, cover a mix of drilling and fastening jobs.

The kit includes a 3.0Ah battery, charger and tool bag. Makita 18V LXT owners can also use batteries from the same system.

In driver mode, adjustable torque settings give you control for smaller screws. The drill is compatible with Makita 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries, including 2.0Ah compact and full-size batteries.

Choose it for a conventional brushless drill kit with a mix of speed, torque and included gear. Skip it if your main priority is the highest stated torque; FLEX and Greenworks list higher maximums.

2

Milwaukee 3601-20 M18 Compact Brushless Drill/Driver (Tool Only): Best for confined workspaces

8.0/10Our score

• 5.7 in long
• 550 in-lb torque
• Tool only

A compact 5.7 in drill with 550 in-lb of torque. It is sold as a tool only, so plan for a compatible battery and charger.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Short length for confined work
• 550 in-lb torque
• Brushless motor

Cons

• Battery and charger are not included
• Only one speed is specified

The Milwaukee 3601-20 suits tight work areas where a shorter drill is easier to position. At 5.7 in long, it is the shortest standard drill in this roundup, and it has 550 in-lb of torque.

Its compact size also suits overhead applications. The brushless motor delivers power for common applications, and the drill runs from 500 to 1,700 RPM.

This is a tool-only model. Choose it if you already have a compatible M18 battery and charger; skip it if you need a complete kit and don't want to buy those parts separately.

For related Milwaukee system choices, see our Milwaukee M12 vs M18 drill guide. If you want a broader comparison across brands, our best cordless power drills page covers everyday picks.

3

Skil PWR CORE 20 Brushless 1/2 in. Drill Driver Kit (DL6280B): Best for controlled screw driving

7.9/10Our score

• Up to 400 in-lb torque
• 17 torque settings plus drill mode
• 2.0Ah battery and charger included

The 17 torque settings plus drill mode give you options for fastening and drilling. The kit includes a 2.0Ah battery and charger.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Battery and charger included
• Keyless 1/2 in chuck
• LED worklight with pre-light and afterglow

Cons

• Stated maximum speed is 1,700 RPM
• Lower stated torque than several picks above

The Skil DL6280B is a practical kit for buyers who want more clutch settings for screw driving. It offers 17 torque settings plus a drill mode, a variable-speed trigger and a keyless 1/2 in chuck.

Its digital brushless motor delivers up to 400 in-lb of torque. An LED worklight with pre-light and afterglow provides visibility around the work area.

The kit includes a 2.0Ah battery, charger and a 2-inch double-end bit. Its stated top speed is 1,700 RPM.

Choose it if clutch adjustment and a kit with battery and charger matter to you. Skip it if higher stated torque is your deciding factor; Metabo HPT, FLEX and Greenworks list larger maximums.

4

Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Compact Brushless Drill/Driver Kit: Best for ONE+ tool owners

7.8/10Our score

• 6.4 in compact size
• Up to 400 in-lb torque
• Battery, charger and bag included

This 6.4 in drill comes with a 1.5Ah battery, charger and bag. It belongs to the RYOBI 18V ONE+ system.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Battery and charger included
• Two speed ranges
• 24-position clutch

Cons

• 1.5Ah battery is the smallest stated capacity among the standard drill kits here
• Maximum torque is 400 in-lb

The Ryobi ONE+ HP compact kit suits buyers who already use RYOBI 18V ONE+ tools or want a small drill with an included battery. It measures 6.4 in long and provides up to 400 in-lb of torque.

A 2-speed motor runs from 0–450 and 0–1,700 RPM, while a 24-position clutch offers settings for fastening. The kit includes a 1.5Ah battery, charger and bag.

Its compact size can help when you are working in corners or above shoulder height. The included battery has less capacity than several other kits here, so this is a weaker fit for long sessions without a recharge.

See our guide to whether Ryobi drills are good for more on the brand’s tool system. Choose this kit when its compact size and ONE+ compatibility suit your needs.

5

Metabo HPT DS18DEX 18V MultiVolt Brushless Driver Drill Kit: Best for a spare-battery setup

7.7/10Our score

• 620 in-lb torque
• 6.1 in long and 2.6 lb
• Two 2.0Ah batteries included

A compact 6.1 in drill weighing 2.6 lb, with 620 in-lb of stated torque. Its kit includes two 2.0Ah batteries and a charger.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Two batteries included
• Reactive Force Control stops rotation when overload is sensed
• Metal chuck

Cons

• A high torque figure may be more than a light-duty buyer needs
• Check battery compatibility if you already own another system

The Metabo HPT DS18DEX combines compact dimensions with a high stated torque figure. It measures 6.1 in long, weighs 2.6 lb and has 620 in-lb of torque.

The kit includes two 18V 2.0Ah batteries, a charger, a bag and a Phillips bit. Its Reactive Force Control senses tool overload and stops rotation, and the metal chuck provides a firm grip on the bit.

This pick suits buyers who want a compact tool and a spare battery ready to go. Skip it if you only need a light-duty drill and don't want to add another battery platform to your tools.

6

Craftsman V20 Brushless RP CMCD714D1 Drill Driver Kit: Best for short-head access

7.6/10Our score

• 6.2 in tool head length
• Two speed settings
• 2.0Ah battery and charger included

The 6.2 in tool head length is useful when nearby surfaces limit room to work. The kit includes a 2.0Ah battery and charger.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Battery and charger included
• Two-speed transmission
• Built-in LED

Cons

• No torque figure is provided here
• Battery capacity is 2.0Ah

Craftsman’s V20 Brushless RP drill has a 6.2 in tool head length. Its kit comes with a 2.0Ah battery and charger, and the drill has a 2-speed transmission with a variable-speed trigger.

The top no-load speed is 1,900 RPM. A built-in LED helps light the work area, and the drill is VERSATRACK compatible.

Craftsman describes the tool as suited to tight spaces and drilling tasks such as electrical rough-ins. No torque figure is available here, so choose another pick if a stated torque maximum is central to your comparison.

7

Flex 24V Brushless 1/2 in. Drill Driver Kit (750 in-lbs): Best for demanding drilling

7.5/10Our score

• 750 in-lb torque
• Two 2.5Ah batteries included
• Two-speed drill

This 24V drill has the highest stated torque among the first seven picks. It comes with two 2.5Ah batteries and a fast charger.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Two batteries included
• 750 in-lb stated torque
• Compatible with FLEX 24V batteries

Cons

• System requires FLEX 24V batteries and chargers
• Heavier stated kit weight than compact picks

The FLEX 24V drill has 750 in-lb of stated torque, a 2-speed design and a 1/2 in all-metal ratcheting chuck. It is a high-torque option for buyers who want a complete kit with two batteries.

The kit includes two 2.5Ah lithium-ion batteries and a fast charger. FLEX says its 24V battery system is compatible with its 24V tools, chargers and batteries.

The stated kit weight is 11.6 lb, higher than the stated weights of the compact picks here. Choose it for the torque figure and two-battery kit if those features suit your work; skip it if you value the lightest handling above them.

8

Greenworks 24V Brushless 1/2 in. Drill with 4.0Ah Battery: Best for longer work sessions

7.4/10Our score

• 800 in-lb torque
• 4.0Ah battery included
• Two speeds and 21-position clutch

The 4.0Ah battery is the largest stated capacity in this group, and the drill has 800 in-lb of stated torque. It is part of the Greenworks 24V system.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 4.0Ah battery included
• Highest stated torque in this group
• 21-position clutch

Cons

• Check compatibility with your existing batteries and charger
• The included-components details do not name a charger

Greenworks offers the highest stated torque in this roundup at 800 in-lb, along with a 4.0Ah battery and a 2-speed gearbox. A 21-position clutch gives you settings for fastening.

The drill has a 1/2 in keyless ratcheting metal chuck and an LED light. Greenworks says the battery is compatible with more than 150 of its 24V tools.

The included-components details do not name a charger. Choose it if the larger battery and high torque fit your work, but confirm that you have a compatible charger or can get one before relying on the kit.

9

Skil PWR CORE 20 Brushless Flip Drill Driver Kit: Best for frequent bit swaps

7.4/10Our score

• Double-collet flip head
• Slim design for corners and edges
• 20V 2.0Ah USB-C battery and charger included

The double-collet flip head switches between drilling and driving bits by twisting the head. It comes with a battery, charger and several bits.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Flip head reduces bit swaps
• Magnetic onboard storage
• USB-C battery can charge compatible devices

Cons

• Different head design from a standard chuck drill
• 350 in-lb stated torque

The Skil Flip Drill is a specialty pick for switching between drilling and driving bits quickly. Its double-collet flip head changes between bit types with a twist, which can reduce repeated chuck changes during small assembly jobs.

The slim drill kit includes a 20V 2.0Ah USB-C battery, 20W charger, cable, belt clip, a 2-inch PH2 bit and four hex shank HSS bits. It also has electronic torque settings, magnetic onboard storage and an LED worklight.

Its flip head differs from a standard chuck, so consider the kinds of bits you use most often. Choose it for quick changes and access to corners and edges; skip it if your projects call for frequent changes among many bit sizes.

10

Black+Decker 20V MAX Brushless 1/2 in. Drill Driver with Bit Sets: Best for starter bit variety

7.0/10Our score

• 30-piece bit and accessory set
• 486 in-lb torque
• 2.0Ah battery and charger included

The 30-piece set gives you drill bits, driver bits, nut drivers and a magnetic holder for common jobs. The drill has 486 in-lb of stated torque.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Battery and charger included
• 30-piece accessory set
• Two speed settings and 10 clutch positions

Cons

• Confirm the included bit types match your work
• Heavier than the compact picks

The BLACK+DECKER brushless drill kit includes a 30-piece bit and driver set, a 2.0Ah battery and a charger. Its stated 486 in-lb torque and two speed settings add drilling and fastening features to the accessory set.

The 1/2 in metal chuck is keyless, and the drill has 10 clutch positions plus a drilling position. It also has a built-in LED, soft grip and battery charge indicator.

The kit includes drill bits, screwdriving bits, nut drivers and a magnetic holder. Choose it if you need a broad starter set; skip it if your work requires specialty bits that aren't included.

How should you choose a brushless drill?

Choose a drill by matching its size, controls, battery platform and kit contents to the jobs you actually expect to do. Use torque as one comparison point, not the only measure of fit.

Does a brushless motor matter for home projects?

A brushless motor may suit you if you expect regular drilling or fastening and want a drill built around that motor type. The products in this roundup vary in size, torque and battery system, so motor type alone does not determine the best fit.

For furniture assembly and occasional repairs, clutch control and a comfortable size may matter more than a high torque figure. For heavier drilling, consider the material and bit you plan to use, then compare the model's stated speed and torque.

A brushless drill is also a longer-term choice within a battery system. If you already own compatible tools, adding a drill to that platform can reduce the need to manage another charger and battery type.

How much torque do you need?

The stated maximums range from 350 to 800 in-lb, but those numbers do not rank every drill by usefulness. Higher torque can help with demanding tasks, while careful clutch settings matter when driving small screws.

For a general-purpose choice, the Makita offers 440 in-lb and two speed ranges. For higher stated torque, compare Metabo HPT, FLEX and Greenworks, while also considering battery platform and handling.

Think about the largest routine task you expect to do, not just an occasional difficult one. A drill with a high maximum can be useful, but it does not replace the right bit, a steady grip or a controlled approach.

Why do battery and charger details matter?

A complete kit can be easier to start with, while a tool-only model can suit you if you already own a compatible system. The Milwaukee pick is tool only, and the Greenworks included-components list does not name a charger.

Check the platform before buying a bare tool. A battery from one brand’s system is not automatically compatible with another brand’s drill.

Capacity also helps you compare kits for longer work sessions. The stated packs range from 1.5Ah on the Ryobi to 4.0Ah on the Greenworks, but capacity alone does not tell you exactly how long a particular job will take.

Should you choose a standard chuck or a flip head?

A standard chuck holds a range of drill and driver bits. The Skil Flip Drill uses a double-collet head instead, which lets you switch between drilling and driving bits by turning the head.

Choose the flip head for quick changes between common bits and access to tight corners. If you need to use varied bit shank sizes or drill through different materials, a standard chuck drill may be more flexible.

A ratcheting chuck can help grip a bit securely, while a keyless chuck lets you change bits without a separate chuck key. Keep the drill switched off while changing a bit, and tighten the chuck so the bit sits straight and doesn't slip.

What size and speed fit your workspace?

A shorter drill can be easier to position between nearby surfaces or above shoulder height. The Milwaukee, Craftsman, Metabo HPT and Ryobi picks all call out compact dimensions, while their overall controls and kit contents differ.

Two speed ranges give you another way to adapt the drill to the task. Lower speeds can help you work with more control, while higher speeds can help with drilling; use the trigger steadily instead of immediately pressing it fully.

If you often work in dim corners, an LED can help you see the work area. It doesn't replace proper lighting or eye protection, but it can be a useful built-in aid.

How do you set up a new drill for a job?

Start by charging the battery, fitting the right bit and adjusting the clutch or speed before you begin. A few checks help keep the drill under control and protect the work surface.

Read the tool instructions before first use, especially for controls, battery fit and any overload feature. Seat the battery until it locks into place, then confirm that the chuck holds the bit straight and securely.

Use a drill bit for making a hole and a driver bit for turning a screw. Match the bit to the material and fastener, and keep a firm grip with the drill aligned to the surface.

For screws, start with a low clutch setting and increase it only if the drill stops before the screw is seated. For drilling, use drill mode where available, mark the intended hole and let the bit cut without forcing the tool.

If a bit binds, stop and release the trigger before repositioning. Pushing harder can make the drill twist suddenly or damage the bit, screw or workpiece.

What care helps a cordless drill last?

Keep the chuck, vents and battery contacts free of dust, and store the drill and battery in a dry place. Follow the tool maker's instructions for charging and storage.

Remove the battery before changing bits or cleaning the drill. Wipe the body with a dry cloth, and clear dust around the chuck and vents without pushing debris into the tool.

Let a hot tool cool before putting it away or charging a battery. Avoid leaving the drill where it can get wet, and check the bit and chuck for damage before each job.

Use the charger intended for the battery platform. Don't assume another brand's charger or battery will fit, even if the voltage looks similar.

What common cordless drill mistakes should you avoid?

The most common mistakes are choosing by torque alone, using the wrong bit and setting the clutch too high for small fasteners. Fixing those choices before starting can prevent stripped screws and damaged materials.

Don't use a driver bit to drill a hole or a dull, damaged bit for demanding work. A bit that wobbles in the chuck can make an uneven hole, so stop and reseat it if it doesn't run straight.

Avoid pressing hard on the trigger before the bit is aligned. Start slowly, keep the drill square to the surface and increase speed as the bit engages.

Don't treat every drill as a hammer drill. These picks are driver-drills or drill drivers.

Drilling into masonry may call for a hammer drill and a masonry bit. See our hammer drill vs regular drill guide before choosing a tool for brick or concrete.

Which brushless cordless drill should you choose?

Choose the Makita XFD131 for a balanced 18V kit with two speeds, 440 in-lb of stated torque, a battery, charger and bag. Pick the Milwaukee if compact size matters and you own compatible M18 batteries, or choose Greenworks for the highest stated torque.

For a compact kit with two batteries, choose Metabo HPT. If clutch control is your priority, look at the Skil DL6280B; for a quick switch between common drilling and driving bits, consider the Skil Flip Drill.

For a kit with a wide spread of bits and accessories, the BLACK+DECKER is the clearest fit. If you already have a battery platform, favor a compatible drill that meets your needs before starting a second system.

If you want to narrow the field by voltage first, see our best 12V cordless drills guide. Use the best cordless drill combo kits roundup if you want more than a drill in the box.

Related brushless drill guides

These guides can help if you are comparing brands or choosing a drill for a particular job:

• Best Makita cordless drills
• Best cordless power drills for everyday jobs
• Best 12V cordless drills

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for balanced home projects

   Makita XFD131 18V LXT Brushless Driver-Drill Kit

   8.8/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for confined workspaces

   Milwaukee 3601-20 M18 Compact Brushless Drill/Driver (Tool Only)

   8.0/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for controlled screw driving

   Skil PWR CORE 20 Brushless 1/2 in. Drill Driver Kit (DL6280B)

   7.9/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What is a brushless cordless drill?

A brushless cordless drill uses an electronically controlled motor without brushes. The models here pair that motor type with a battery system, chuck and speed controls.

Compare the whole setup, including battery and charger, because tool-only models need compatible gear bought separately.

Is a brushless drill worth it for home use?

It can be a sensible choice if you want a drill with a brushless motor and expect to use it for regular repairs or projects. For occasional furniture assembly, a simpler drill may be enough.

Look at size, clutch control, included battery and system compatibility alongside motor type.

What torque should a cordless drill have?

There is no single torque number for every job. These picks range from 350 to 800 in-lb, but more torque alone does not make a drill the right fit.

Match the tool to your materials and bit, and use the clutch for controlled screw driving.

Should I buy a drill kit or a tool-only model?

A kit is convenient if you need a battery and charger, while tool-only can make sense when you already own compatible batteries. The Milwaukee pick here is tool only.

Check that your battery platform matches before choosing it.

Do brushless drills work with any cordless tool battery?

No. Battery compatibility depends on the tool system and voltage platform.

Makita 18V LXT, RYOBI 18V ONE+, FLEX 24V and Greenworks 24V are distinct systems.

Check compatibility before assuming a battery from another brand will fit.