What voltage cordless drill do I need?

For most home jobs, a 12V to 18V drill is plenty. 12V is light and handy for everyday tasks, while 18V has more power for tougher jobs. Higher voltage means more power but usually more weight.

Do I need a combi drill or a drill driver?

A combi drill adds a hammer action for drilling into masonry, which is useful in most UK homes with brick walls. If you'll only ever drill wood and drive screws, a plain drill driver is fine.

How many batteries should it come with?

Two batteries is ideal, so one can charge while you use the other. If it comes with one, factor in the cost of a spare if you'll do longer jobs.

How to Choose a Cordless Drill: A First-Timer's Guide…

A cordless drill is the tool most people reach for first, and the one that earns its place fastest. But the spec lists can be off-putting for a first-timer. The good news is you don’t need the most powerful, most expensive model. You need the right one for home jobs. Here’s how to pick it.

The short version

A 12V to 18V combi drill covers almost all home jobs. Two batteries beat one. Stick to a single battery brand as you add tools, and don't overspend on power you won't use.

Combi drill or drill driver?

This is the main choice. A drill driver drills holes and drives screws, which covers wood and general tasks. A combi drill adds a hammer action for drilling into brick and masonry, which most UK homes have plenty of. For that reason, a combi drill is the more versatile first buy for the majority of people.

A good bit set is essential, whatever drill you pair it with. Check price on Amazon →

Voltage: power versus weight

Voltage roughly indicates power. For home use, 12V is light and easy to handle for everyday jobs, while 18V gives you more grunt for tougher drilling. More voltage usually means more weight, so there’s no need to chase the highest number if you’re doing shelves and flat-pack rather than heavy construction.

Batteries and the platform trap (in a good way)

Two batteries is the sweet spot, letting one charge while you work. And here’s the money-saver: once you pick a cordless brand, its batteries and chargers work across that brand’s other tools. So your drill choice quietly sets your platform for future buys. Choose a brand with a range you might grow into.

Handy extras

A few things make life easier: a decent set of drill and screwdriver bits, a clutch with plenty of torque settings to avoid stripping screws, and an LED light for dim corners. None are essential, but they’re the difference between a fiddly job and an easy one.

Ready to choose?

Browse current top-rated power, garden and hand tools, ranked by real customer reviews, then check today’s price on Amazon.

DIY & Tools buying guide for building a full kit.
Browse the full DIY & Tools department.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.