Top 50 Brushless Drills: What Makes Them Stand Out

Whether you're a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, finding the right brushless drill can transform your work into a breeze. This roundup examines the most powerful and durable brushless drills on the market, comparing their features, performance, and value to help you make an informed choice.

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Reviews

Worx Nitro WX130L.9 20V Compact Brushless Drill Driver

At just 3 pounds, this compact brushless drill packs serious punch for its size, delivering 500 inch-pounds of torque to handle everything from tough steel to thick lumber. The 20V lithium-ion motor runs 50% longer and 25% more powerful than standard drills, while the built-in LED light keeps your workspace illuminated during precision tasks. The 1/2" metal chuck and 18+1 clutch positions provide exceptional bit retention and torque control for professional results in tight spaces.

Bosch GSR18V-400B22 18V Compact Drill/Driver Kit

This compact 1/2-inch drill-driver combines professional performance with remarkable size, featuring a brushless motor that delivers 400 inch-pounds of torque from just 2 pounds of tool weight. With its 6.3-inch head length and 20 clutch settings, it handles both heavy-duty tasks and precise work with equal skill. The tool's efficient design, paired with two included 2 Ah batteries, ensures you have powerful drilling and driving capability at your fingertips, whether you're working overhead or in tight spaces.

Ryobi PBLCK01K Brushless Drill Kit

This powerful Ryobi combo kit gives you pro-level performance with its brushless motor and 18V lithium-ion batteries, while the intuitive GRIPZONE overmold keeps your hands comfortable during long jobs. The drill handles everything from delicate screw jobs to heavy-duty construction with its 24-position clutch and 2-speed gearbox, while the impact driver demolishes tough nuts and bolts with its 1600-inch lbs. of torque. The compact design packs serious power into a lightweight package that's surprisingly nimble for its size, making it a smart choice for both pros and DIY enthusiasts who value reliability and versatility over bling.

Xiaomi 12V Brushless Cordless Drill

This cordless drill packs impressive torque into a surprisingly compact package, effortlessly handling everything from softwoods to metals with its robust S2 steel bits hardened to 60HRC. The intuitive one-button mode switching and built-in 2000mAh battery deliver reliable performance right out of the box, while the smart display keeps you informed at every step. The all-metal variable speed gearbox and water-repellent storage pouch showcase the attention to detail that's earned this tool a solid 4.7 out of 5 from users who appreciate its durability and versatility.

Makita 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Driver-Drill Kit

The Makita 18V LXT lithium-ion brushless cordless drill combines exceptional power with remarkable efficiency, delivering 440 in-lb of torque while consuming 50% less battery energy during operation. Its compact 6.5-inch frame and lightweight 3.8-pound design offer remarkable control and comfort during extended use, whether you're driving screws or drilling through tough materials. The tool's two-speed transmission handles everything from delicate tasks to heavy-duty applications, while its dust and water-resistant construction ensures reliable performance in challenging job sites.

Makita XFD12Z 18V Brushless Cordless Drill

If you're in the market for a powerful yet practical cordless drill that won't break the bank, the Makita XFD12Z certainly fits the bill. Weighing a manageable 3.4 pounds with a 2.0Ah battery, this brushless motor drill delivers impressive torque - 530 inch-pounds to be exact - while its 2-speed transmission adapts to various drilling and fastening tasks. The tool has earned high praise from users who appreciate its combination of power, efficiency, and durability in everyday work settings.

Flex FX1131-1A 1/2" Brushless Drill Driver

This compact cordless drill delivers big power in a surprisingly lightweight package, thanks to its 24V brushless motor and THERMA-TECH heat management system. The dual fan charger speeds up the already quick 32-minute battery charge, while the LED task light and ergonomic grip keep you comfortable during long jobs. With 650 inch-pounds of torque and a robust 160W fast charger, this drill kit from Flex FX1131-1A has earned high praise from users who appreciate its combination of power, durability, and practical design features.

DeWalt DCK299M2 20V Max XR Impact Driver and Hammer Drill Kit

Whether you're pounding through concrete or twisting tight screws, this DeWalt combo kit has the muscle and precision to get the job done right. The hammer drill breaks through even the toughest materials at 38,250 BPM, while the compact impact driver zipzes through fasteners with its responsive brushless motor. The LED light and 4.0 Ah batteries help keep you working late into the evening without hassle.

Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2 in. Drill Driver

At just 6.9 inches long, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Drill Driver packs an impressive punch - delivering 60% more power than its competitors with 1,200 in-lbs of torque. Its all-metal ratcheting chuck grips bits better and lasts longer than cheaper alternatives. The LED light at the handle shines brightly in dark spots, while REDLITHIUM batteries give you more work per charge than anything else on the market.

DeWalt 20V MAX* Cordless Drill & Impact Driver Kit

For detailed work where every inch matters, this compact drill-driver combo delivers surprising power in a surprisingly small package – perfect for those tight corners where other tools won't fit. The built-in LED lights transform dark workspaces into clear visibility zones, while the keyless chuck makes bit changes faster than you can say "deWalt. " Together, these tools have earned their spot in countless workshops for their reliability and efficiency.

DeWalt DCF787C1 20V Max Brushless Impact Driver Kit

This compact cordless impact driver combines powerful performance with remarkable precision, thanks to its brushless motor that delivers consistent torque in tight spaces. The included 1.3 Ah battery provides ample power for your projects, while the three LED lights offer excellent visibility in dark work environments. The tool's lightweight design makes it comfortable to use for extended periods, whether you're tackling home repairs or professional remodeling jobs.

Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2" Drill Driver

This powerful 1/2" drill-driver combines 60% more torque than competing tools with remarkable compactness, measuring just 6.9 inches for superior access in tight spaces. The LED foot light enhances visibility in dark corners, while the AutoStop feature prevents over-rotation for increased safety. Built for durability, the all-metal ratcheting chuck provides exceptional grip and corrosion resistance.

Milwaukee 3601-22CT M18 Compact Brushless Drill Driver Kit

Crafted for both professionals and enthusiasts, the Milwaukee M18 drill driver combines remarkable power with remarkable ease of use. The compact brushless motor delivers impressive torque while keeping the tool lightweight and responsive at just 5.7 inches long. Reviewers particularly praise its durability and performance, with many noting it outpowers drills twice its size.

DeWalt DCD708B 20V MAX* Brushless Drill/Driver

This compact brushless drill driver packs impressive power into its slender frame, measuring a mere 6.3 inches from front to back. Its LED foot light illuminates your work area while the high-torque brushless motor handles even the toughest fastening tasks with ease. The 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck grips bits securely, and the ergonomic handle keeps you comfortable during long sessions in tight spaces.

DeWalt DCK277D2 20V Max Brushless Drill Impact Combo Kit

This versatile DeWalt combo kit pairs a brushless drill with an impact driver, both featuring compact designs that fit snugly in tight spaces. The ergonomic handles provide comfortable control, while the built-in LED light helps you see clearly in dark corners. With powerful performance and quick charging, these tools get the job done efficiently, backed by a three-year warranty.

Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2 in. Drill Driver Kit

This compact 1/2-inch drill brings big power to tight spaces with its 6.9-inch length and 1,200 in-lbs of torque. The REDLITHIUM battery system delivers exceptional runtime, while the brushless motor handles everything from light-duty tasks to heavy-duty materials like 2x lumber and concrete. Users love how this Milwaukee tool outperforms competitors in both power and durability.

DeWalt DCD799L1 Atomic Compact Drill

When every inch counts on the job site, this compact hammer drill packs serious power into a supersized 6.49-inch frame. Its 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck holds firmly while you're driving deep holes, and the 552 UWO delivers remarkable torque for its size. The built-in LED light transforms dark corners into bright workspaces, ensuring you always see what you're drilling into.

DeWalt DCD798B 20V Max Brushless Cordless Hammer Drill

This cordless hammer drill combines remarkable power with exceptional precision for tackling both new and challenging concrete projects. The brushless motor delivers consistent performance, while the 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck grips bits tightly for clean starts and secure drilling. Whether you're nailing a shelf or breaking through concrete, this tool handles it with confidence and efficiency.

DeWalt DCD708C2 20V Drill Driver Kit

If precision and portability matter when you're working in tight spaces, this compact drill/driver delivers where others struggle to reach. Its 20V brushless motor packs serious power in an incredibly manageable size, while the LED foot light ensures you've got visibility down to the last screw. Whether you're hanging shelves or assembling furniture, the variable speed trigger lets you match your exact torque needs for both delicate and strenuous tasks.

DeWalt DCD798D1 20V Max Brushless Hammer Drill Kit

This brushless cordless hammer drill combines remarkable power with impressive compactness, measuring a full inch shorter than its predecessor while maintaining 20V MAX performance. The 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck handles solid bits up to 1.650 inches, while the 1,650 RPM no-load speed and 404 UWO delivers serious torque for demanding concrete and masonry tasks. The keyless chuck and LED work light demonstrate DEWALT's commitment to both professional functionality and user convenience.

DeWalt DCD800P1 20V Max XR Drill Driver Kit

This versatile 20V cordless drill combines professional-grade power with remarkable compactness, thanks to its 1/2-inch shorter design that still delivers 40% more unit watts than its predecessor. The brushless motor generates up to 2,000 RPM, effortlessly handling both everyday tasks and heavy-duty jobs like drilling into steel. Its lightweight yet sturdy build, along with the included adjustable LED work light and convenient belt clip, makes it an indispensable tool for any workspace.

DeWalt DCD778B 20V Max Cordless Drill Driver

This powerful cordless hammer drill combines a brushless motor for extended runtime with a 1/2" ratcheting chuck that locks bits in place for precise drilling. The 20V MAX battery delivers ample torque for tough jobs, while the ergonomic pistol grip keeps your hand comfortable during long sessions. With speeds ranging from 0-550 to 17,000 RPM, it handles everything from drywall to concrete, while the built-in LED light helps you see what you're drilling in dark corners.

DeWalt DCD791P1 20V Max XR Brushless Drill/Driver Kit

This powerful cordless drill packs impressive torque into a surprisingly compact frame, thanks to its brushless motor that delivers 57% more runtime than traditional models. The 20V MAX* system combines with a lightweight 3.4-pound design to tackle tough jobs while staying comfortable for extended use, featuring an ergonomic grip and a helpful LED light that brightens dark workspaces 20 times more than its predecessor. The keyless 1/2-inch chuck grips bits securely, and the drill's two-speed transmission helps match the right power to the task at hand, from pilot holes to full-power drilling.

DeWalt DCD777D1 20V MAX Drill Driver Kit

This 20V MAX* drill delivers impressive power for its size, thanks to its brushless motor and compact design. Users appreciate how easily it handles tight spaces while providing the torque needed for serious woodworking projects. The LED light feature helps visibility in darker areas, and the durable build quality shows in its consistent performance across multiple jobs.

DeWalt DCD800B Brushless Cordless Drill/Driver Tool

The DeWalt DCD800B combines professional power with unprecedented versatility, featuring a compact 6.37-inch frame that's 1/2-inch shorter than its predecessors for exceptional reach in tight spaces. Its 1/2-inch metal ratcheting chuck maintains precise bit retention while the high-speed brushless motor delivers 2,000 RPM for efficient drilling through tough materials. The tool's 3-mode LED system provides adjustable illumination, and its lightweight design reduces user fatigue during extended use.

Ryobi PCL206K1 18V Cordless Drill/Driver

This versatile cordless drill combines brute strength with precise control, thanks to its 2-speed gearbox and 24-position clutch. The powerful motor generates 515 in. /lbs. of torque, while the keyless ratcheting chuck holds bits securely. The included LED light provides much-needed illumination for dark workspaces, and the tool's lightweight design makes it comfortable to use for extended periods.

Milwaukee M18 Compact Drill Driver Kit

Milwaukee's compact brushless combo kit delivers serious power in a surprisingly nimble package - think 500 in-lbs of torque in a tool that's shorter than a standard drill. The system's smart engineering means longer run times and fewer overheating issues, even under heavy use. Users particularly love how well these tools handle in tight spaces and overhead work, thanks to their precise 1/2" and 1/4" bit capabilities.

Milwaukee M18 1/2" Brushless Hammer Drill

The M18 hammer drill delivers impressive torque for its class, thanks to its brushless motor and all-metal construction that handles tough jobs without sacrificing precision. Its 1/2" chuck and compact design make it versatile for various tasks, from overhead work to tight spaces, while the LED light adds a practical touch for better visibility during use.

Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1/2" Hammer Drill

The Milwaukee 1/2" hammer drill delivers impressive torque thanks to its power state Brushless motor, while its compact 6.9-inch design provides better access in tight spaces. The RedLithium battery pack offers exceptional runtime and durability. Users appreciate its well-balanced feel and responsive 2000 rpm motor, though some note higher noise levels during operation.

SKIL 20V PWR CORE Compact Drill & Impact Driver Kit

The Skil PWR CORE 20 combines impressive torque with exceptional compactness, making it perfect for both precision work and heavy-duty tasks. With 17 torque settings and a variable speed trigger, you get incredible control whether you're driving screws or hammering through stubborn bolts. The keyless chuck lets you swap bits in seconds, while the powerful LED light illuminates your workspace for up to 10 minutes.

DeWalt DCK278C2 20V Max Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit

This powerful combo kit packs surprisingly robust performance into its compact frame, effortlessly handling everything from precision drilling to heavy-duty screwdriving. The 20V brushless motors deliver impressive torque and speed, while the intuitive variable trigger control and bright LED lights ensure comfortable, precise work in any lighting conditions. The lightweight design and built-in belt hooks make these tools incredibly versatile for both professional projects and DIY tasks around the home.

DeWalt DCD777B 20V Max Brushless Drill Driver

This powerful cordless drill delivers exceptional performance for its size, with a nimble 7.5-inch frame that easily navigates tight spaces. The brushless motor provides remarkable runtime and torque, while the ergonomic handle keeps you comfortable during long sessions. The LED light feature adds convenience, especially when working in dark corners or tight compartments.

DeWalt DCD793B 20V Max Brushless Drill

The DeWalt DCD793B packs impressive power into a surprisingly compact frame, measuring just 6.38 inches from bit tip to handle. Its brushless motor delivers up to 16% more torque than traditional drills, making short work of even the toughest jobs. The tool's keyless chuck grips 1/2-inch bits tightly, while the built-in LED light shines brightly to illuminate your workspace.

Milwaukee M18 1/2" Compact Drill/Driver Kit

The Milwaukee 1/2-inch brushless drill driver combines professional-grade power with remarkable efficiency, delivering 500 in-lb of torque while consuming less energy than its traditional counterparts. Its compact design and lightweight construction—despite its impressive 500 in-lb torque rating—make it exceptionally comfortable to use, particularly for overhead work or in tight spaces. The tool's robust all-metal construction and RedLithium battery system ensure longevity and reliability, backed by a five-year warranty that gives confidence in its performance over time.

DeWalt DCD794B Compact 20V Max Drill/Driver

This incredibly compact 20V brushless drill delivers 16% more power than its traditional 18V cousins, making short work of tough drilling jobs in tight spaces—thanks to its mere 5.88-inch length (measured from the tool head). The included LED work light shines bright enough to illuminate dark corners, while the 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck holds bits securely for precise work. Whether you're installing plumbing, mounting shelves, or performing general maintenance, this reliable tool gets the job done with Dewalt's characteristic durability and performance.

DeWalt DCK225D2 20V Max Brushless Drill/Impact Driver Kit

This sleek, lightweight combo packs serious punch in two compact tools - a drill-driver and impact driver that fit into tight spaces with ease. The brushless motor delivers impressive runtime while the LED light keeps your workspace bright during dark projects. The baggy setup makes it easy to toss in your gear for jobsite hopping.

DeWalt DCD800D2 20V MAX XR Brushless Drill/Driver Kit

This powerful cordless drill delivers professional performance with its brushless motor and versatile speed settings. The compact design allows for comfortable use in tight spaces, while the 2-position LED light system improves visibility during dark jobs. With durable construction and reliable battery life, it's a solid investment for both new and experienced users.

DeWalt DCD709B Atomic 1/2 in. Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver

This compact 20V Brushless Hammer Drill packs impressive torque into a surprisingly lightweight frame, making it perfect for both professional and DIY projects. With its intelligent LED foot light and intuitive variable speed trigger, it handles everything from delicate screwdriving to heavy-duty masonry work with ease. Despite its small size, the dual-purpose tool delivers the raw power needed to break through concrete and drive deep into wood, all while keeping the user comfortable with its ergonomically designed pistol grip.

20V Black & Decker Cordless Drill Driver

This reliable cordless drill delivers the power needed for various home improvement projects while maintaining a comfortable, lightweight design. The 20V lithium-ion battery provides consistent performance without excessive bulk, and the intuitive 11-position clutch helps prevent common screw-driving mistakes. The LED work light illuminates your workspace, making it easier to drill in dark corners or tight spaces.

Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless Drill/Driver

Crafted for versatility and precision, this compact drill delivers surprising power in an incredibly nimble package - measuring just 5.7 inches long yet boasting 550 in-lbs of torque. Its brushless motor responds instantly between 500 and 1700 RPM, making short work of everything from delicate woodworking to heavy-duty metalwork. The all-metal gear case and 1/2" chuck demonstrate the durability you'd expect from a professional-grade tool, while its Milwaukee M18 system compatibility ensures it works seamlessly with your existing equipment.

DeWalt DCD800E2 20V MAX XR Drill/Driver Kit

Engineered for professional use, the DeWalt 20V MAX XR Drill/Driver combines remarkable power with impressive compactness. Weighing just 4.5 pounds, it feels surprisingly nimble in tight spaces while delivering the torque needed for serious drilling tasks. The high-speed brushless motor cuts through materials effortlessly, with the drill maintaining consistent performance whether you're working with wood or metal.

DeWalt 20V MAX XR 1/2" Hammer Drill/Driver Kit

The DeWalt cordless hammer drill delivers professional performance with its brushless motor and 1/2-inch metal ratcheting chuck, while its compact design allows for easy access in tight spaces. With 34,000 BPM and 15 clutch settings, it handles both drilling and driving with precision, while the built-in LED light keeps you working in all conditions.

DeWalt DCD778B 20V Cordless Hammer Drill

This powerful cordless drill delivers 340 UWO of torque through its 2-speed brushless motor, handling both metal and hardwood with efficiency. The 1/2" ratcheting chuck ensures secure bit retention, while the variable speed trigger provides precise control for delicate work. An integrated LED light improves visibility in dark workspaces.

Milwaukee 3602-20 M18 Compact Brushless Hammer Drill

The compact Milwaukee brushless hammer drill packs serious power into a surprisingly nimble package, measuring just 5.8 inches long and weighing in at a mere 2.3 pounds. Its all-metal construction and generous 550-inches of torque make quick work of tough jobs like concrete drilling, while its clever design perfectly balances performance with portability for comfortable use in tight spaces or overhead work.

Milwaukee 3692-22CT M18 Compact Brushless Drill Kit

This Milwaukee combo kit delivers big power in an impressively compact package, with a brushless motor spinning at 1,700 RPM to handle serious drilling while weighing a manageable 2.3 pounds. The included two-battery system keeps you working continuously, and the durable design has proven itself through thousands of real-world applications. Users absolutely love how well this tool performs in tight spaces and on tough jobs.

Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless Drill/Driver Kit

The Milwaukee 2801-21P combines impressive power with remarkable compactness, delivering 500 lbs. of torque in a tool that's just 6.5 inches long and weighs under 3.5 pounds. Built for serious use, it handles everything from drilling through concrete to precision work in tight spaces, with a solid 5-year warranty backing its quality.

Milwaukee M18 3601-21P Compact Brushless Drill Driver Kit

This compact drill/driver delivers remarkable power for its size, thanks to Milwaukee's advanced brushless motor technology. The all-metal construction ensures long-term durability, while the 1/2-inch metal chuck handles tough jobs with ease. Whether you're working on overhead projects or in tight spaces, this versatile tool nails the job with smooth operation and precise control.

DeWalt DCD799B Atomic Compact 20V Max Cordless Drill

When every inch counts, this compact hammer drill delivers big results in tight spaces. The 1/2" ratcheting chuck holds firmly while the LED light illuminates dark spots. At just 6.49" long, it hacks through masonry with 1,650 RPMs and 28,050 BPMs - packing professional power into surprisingly slim quarters.

DeWalt DCH172B Atomic 20V Max Rotary Hammer

Made for quick concrete jobs, this cordless hammer drill packs 1.4 Joules of punch in its compact frame. Reviewers love how well it handles concrete and masonry tasks, though it's specifically designed for drilling—not chipping. With its lightweight build and strong performance, it's become a favorite tool for both pros and DIYers who need reliable concrete drilling.

DeWalt DCD771C2 20V Max Cordless Drill Kit

From power-hungry contractors to weekend DIY warriors, this versatile drill has proven itself time and again with its remarkable torque and nimble design. The hardened steel bits and precision clutch settings make quick work of everything from fine furniture assembly to heavy-duty construction projects, while the compact frame slips effortlessly into tight spaces where other tools won't fit. Whether you're hanging shelves or retrofitting an old truck, this drill has earned its spot in countless toolboxes across the country.

Buyer's Guide

A brushless drill combines high torque with precision, making it ideal for professional use in construction and manufacturing. Understanding its key features will help you select the right tool for your needs.

Motor Technology

Brushless drills use electronically commutated motors, which offer several advantages over traditional brush motors. These include higher efficiency, longer lifespan, and reduced maintenance requirements. The motor's technology directly impacts the drill's power delivery and operational reliability.

Torque and Speed Control

Professional brushless drills typically feature variable speeds and torque control, allowing operators to match the drill's power output to the specific application. This dual-speed capability helps prevent overloading the motor while ensuring adequate power for tough materials.

Battery and Power Supply

Most brushless drills operate on high-capacity lithium-ion batteries, offering longer runtime and faster charging compared to older battery technologies. Look for drills with battery capacities that match your typical work patterns and consider models that support multiple battery packs for extended use.

Build Quality and Durability

Construction materials and manufacturing techniques significantly affect a brushless drill's durability. High-quality drills use hardened steel gears, reinforced casings, and premium electronic components. These features extend the tool's lifespan and maintain consistent performance over time.

FAQ

What is a brushless drill?

A brushless drill is an advanced power tool that uses an electronically controlled motor instead of the traditional brushed motor design. This motor technology significantly reduces friction and energy loss, resulting in increased efficiency and longer tool lifespan.

Key features of brushless drills include variable speed controls, extended runtime from rechargeable batteries, and precise torque control thanks to their digital motor systems.

What are the main advantages of a brushless drill?

Brushless drills offer several advantages over their brushed counterparts, including up to 50% higher torque, longer motor life due to reduced friction, and increased overall efficiency. These tools also feature quieter operation and improved battery management systems.

The digital motor technology in brushless drills allows for precise speed control and consistent torque delivery, making them particularly suitable for professional use where accuracy and power are paramount.

How do brushless drills compare to corded drills?

While corded drills offer continuous power without the need for recharging, brushless drills provide superior torque and performance for demanding tasks. Modern brushless drills can match or exceed the power output of corded models while offering greater versatility through battery operation.

Professional users typically prefer brushless drills for their enhanced control, longevity, and reduced dependency on electrical outlets, though corded models remain suitable for applications with reliable access to power.

What drill bits and accessories work with brushless drills?

Most brushless drills are compatible with standard drill bits and accessories, including spade bits, twist bits, and core bits. Extension shafts and Chuck adapters are also commonly used to increase versatility and reach.

Ensure that any drill-specific attachments you purchase are marked as compatible with your particular brushless drill model to guarantee proper fit and performance.

How long do brushless drill batteries typically last?

The runtime of brushless drill batteries varies by model and usage, but modern lithium-ion batteries commonly provide 20-30 minutes of continuous use per charge. Some high-capacity models offer up to 60 minutes of runtime with a single charge.

The drills' efficient motor design and optimized battery chemistry help maximize runtime between charges, though actual performance may vary based on drilling speed and workload.

What maintenance requirements do brushless drills have?

Regular maintenance for brushless drills includes cleaning the exterior after each use, checking battery health, and ensuring that the chuck and collet are clean and properly lubricated. The motor and electronic components generally do not require user servicing.

Keep the tool clean and store batteries fully charged but separated when not in use to extend the life of both the drill and its power source.

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