Product Test: Cordless Drills
Portable drilling power has never been better or more affordable. Gary Stretton tests a selection to suit most needs
Portable drilling has never been better; LRM tests a range to suit most needs
Cordless drills are essential for a vast array of tasks and are easily overworked if expected to accomplish inappropriate jobs beyond their specification. 18v Li-ion batteries offer faster charge times and typically more torque than lesser powered rivals. The compact nature of Li-ion power means drill sizes and weights have reduced, making prolonged use more comfortable, especially in awkward situations.
Size and weight aren’t everything, however, and sometimes heavier tasks require a drill with more presence and torque to have an affect. Wire cup brushes and other loads that act on the motor less directly than drilling still take their toll on the motor and its rotating axis, so choose carefully when buying if heavier duty tasks beyond basic drilling are required. Fast charge times are the difference between stopping work for hours or simply plugging in while you go to lunch for an hour. All the brands tested offer spare batteries if needed, so downtime can be reduced or eliminated. Importantly, if you typically recharge batteries overnight or for prolonged periods then a smart or intelligent charger is essential as these will cut-out once full charging has been achieved. Once you’ve tasted fast charging, there’s no going back so seriously factor in charging capability.
Sustained battery power and working times are dependent on many factors such as load, temperature and capacity. The more capacity, the more you can achieve for longer and that is reflected in the price. In that sense, it’s all about the batteries.
Torque control is essential if you use a drill for careful removal or fitting of screws and other small fittings and equally, multi-speed settings are preferred.
Other features are always welcome such as LED work lights for poorly lit areas. Some of these illuminate only when the motor is spinning, so aligning drills might require additional lighting regardless.
A drill should last for years if properly used and maintained so invest in the best you can afford and most suited to your requirements. Anything else is false economy.