Power tools can transform DIY projects from frustrating to fabulous, and a reliable drill is essential for any toolkit. Whether you're hanging shelves or drilling into concrete, the right drill can make the job faster and easier. In this roundup, we've compared top-rated drills under $100 to help you find a powerful, budget-friendly tool that fits your needs.
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Reviews
This powerful drill handles tough jobs with a large D-handle for comfort and precise heat-treated gearing for longevity. While some users find the constant-speed trigger challenging for mixing applications, others praise its torque for heavy-duty tasks like drilling through steel and aluminum. With solid performance in DIY and commercial settings, it delivers dependable service at an affordable price point.
The Hyper Tough DL1137 combines impressive power with thoughtful design features like a keyless 1/2-inch chuck and a slide-style switch for versatile drilling. Its 6.0-amp motor handles demanding tasks with ease, while practical details like a detachable auxiliary handle and variable-speed trigger ensure comfortable, precise operation. At just 4.96 pounds, the compact drill delivers serious performance without feeling unwieldy in your hands.
This powerful yet affordable drill combines 20 torque positions with a convenient LED work light for versatile home improvement tasks. The keyless 3/8-inch chuck handles both drilling and driving with ease, while the compact design and single Ni-Cad battery pack make it perfect for DIY projects around the house.
This versatile cordless impact drill combines powerful performance with remarkable precision, thanks to its 20-volt lithium-ion battery and brushless motor system. The keyless 1/2-inch chuck makes quick work of changing bits, while the stepless variable trigger allows for fine control over drilling speed. With 23 total torque settings and a generous 531 inch-pounds of torque, this compact drill handles everything from tough concrete to delicate woodwork with ease.
The Nordstrand Cordless Drill Kit combines powerful performance with thoughtful design features that make it particularly user-friendly for women. With its lightweight 2.4-pound frame and comfortable grip, it feels surprisingly nimble for a professional-grade tool. The included 12V lithium-ion battery provides plenty of power for everyday DIY tasks, while the reversible trigger switch and variable speed control offer precise torque for different applications. The set's comprehensive selection of accessories, including six drill bits ranging from 1/16" to 1/4" and a handy carry case, makes it a practical choice for both new and experienced users tackling everything from simple household repairs to more complex projects.
Crafting simple home repairs and upgrades becomes a breeze with this powerful cordless drill. Its 12V lithium-ion motor packs a punch at 1400 RPM while weighing just a hair under a pound, so you'll barely notice it in your hand during long projects. The keyless chuck and flexible shaft let you switch bits quickly and reach those tough spots, while the built-in LED lights up your work area when the sun goes down.
This lightweight cordless drill brings serious power to your DIY projects with its 21V motor and 1500mAh battery. The 3/8" keyless chuck holds bits snugly while the 2-variable speed settings (0-400RPM and 0-1400RPM) let you match the perfect torque for any job. The ergonomic handle cuts down on vibration, making these powerful tools comfortable for long sessions. The built-in LED light helps you see what you're doing in dark corners, and the magnetic bit holder keeps your tools organized. The drill's dual-purpose design even includes a built-in hammer, turning it into a versatile workshop companion for everything from home repairs to automotive maintenance.
This versatile cordless drill combines powerful 355 inch-pound torque with precise 25+1 clutch settings to prevent screw stripping, making it perfect for both DIY projects and professional use. The 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery and 2.4A fast charger deliver consistent power with efficient temperature management, while the included LED light illuminates dark workspaces. The compact design features a handy belt clip for tool-free operation, and the package includes a generous selection of drill bits and accessories for versatile woodworking and construction tasks.
This versatile cordless drill combines powerful performance with thoughtful design elements like a comfortable grip and LED work light. The included 62-piece accessory set covers most DIY needs, from basic drilling to specialized Torx screw driving. Whether you're hanging shelves or working on a complex home improvement project, this reasonably priced tool delivers the torque and speed you need for the job.
This high-capacity drill driver combines powerful torque with precise control for a wide range of DIY projects. The included comprehensive tool kit transforms it into a versatile center for home improvement tasks.
This cordless drill packs a surprising amount of power into its compact frame, delivering 475 in-lbs of torque and 1750 RPM through its 2-speed gearbox. The included 1.5Ah lithium-ion battery keeps you working for hours between charges, while the built-in LED light and 24-position clutch help you nail every precise screw and hole. The tool's smart design details like on-board bit storage and reversible chuck make it a joy to use for both pros and DIYers alike.
This cordless drill driver combines powerful torque with precise control for various screwing and drilling tasks. The 20V battery provides ample runtime, while the keyless chuck and reversible handle offer user-friendly bit changes. The LED light and ergonomic design enhance usability in any workspace.
The Hyper Tough 18V Cordless Drill packs plenty of power into a surprisingly versatile package. With two speed settings and 20+1 clutch positions, it adapts to your exact needs whether you're driving screws or drilling through tough materials. Its rubber-gripped handle keeps your hands comfortable during long projects, while the built-in LED light helps illuminate your work area. The drill comes with one battery and charger, plus a double-ended bit set, ready to tackle both small projects and bigger jobs around the house.
This cordless drill delivers impressive performance for its size, with 130 inch-pounds of torque and 700 RPM in a tool that weighs just 2.5 pounds. The keyless 3/8-inch chuck and variable speed trigger make it versatile for various jobs, while the built-in LED light and magnetic bit storage help keep your workspace organized. The compact design and Li-ion battery make it ideal for tight spaces and overhead work, as many reviewers have praised its ease of use and durability for home projects.
Crafted for skilled mechanics, this 20-volt cordless drill combines robust torque with intuitive controls. The reversible 3/8-inch drill features 300 inch-pounds of force and 22 torque settings, while its ergonomic handle and built-in LED light make it comfortable for extended use. Powered by a 1.5Ah Samsung battery with rapid charging, this durable tool kit is designed for serious DIY projects and professional maintenance tasks.
While its 20V brushless motor delivers impressive 336 in-lbs of torque for heavy-duty jobs, this compact drill has disappointed many users who've found it unreliable, often failing to perform even basic tasks. The single review highlights a common issue - the tool simply stops working after several months of use, making it a poor investment for anyone needing consistent performance.
This cordless drill packs surprising power into a lightweight package, effortlessly handling everything from delicate screws to heavy-duty construction tasks. With its versatile 310 in-lbs torque and 21 adjustable settings, it proves itself as a capable replacement for much pricier tools in professional workshops and DIY projects alike. The included LED light shines brightly in dark corners, while the intuitive design keeps your hands comfortable during even the longest sessions.
This lightweight 12V drill packs surprising power for its size, thanks to its brushless motor. Reviewers praise its excellent torque and impressive run time, making it a practical choice for both professional and DIY jobs. Whether you're hanging heavy cabinets or just driving screws, this compact tool handles a wide range of tasks with ease.
This versatile cordless drill kit packs serious power into a space-efficient design, with a robust 2-speed drill featuring 19 torque settings for mastering everything from tight screws to heavy-duty fastening. The high-capacity 20V battery delivers impressive runtime while staying smartly protected against overcharge and extreme temperatures. The comprehensive toolkit includes essential hand tools like a hammer and adjustable wrench, all neatly stowed in a durable carrying case that lets you take your drilling expertise anywhere.
This comprehensive toolkit brings together essential hand tools and a powerful 20V cordless drill in one convenient package, offering a solid foundation for both home maintenance and professional use. The collection includes everything from precise needle-nose pliers and wire strippers to rugged claw hammers and adjustable wrenches, while the compact cordless drill provides reliable power for drilling and screw driving tasks.
The Einhell TC ID650E is a versatile hammer drill that nails both drilling and impact drilling tasks with its ergonomic design and precise speed control. Thanks to its 650-watt motor and practical quick-action drill chuck, you can switch between bits quickly and get right to work without hassle. The depth stop ensures your holes stay consistent, while the belt hook keeps your hands free for those tricky angles. Whether you're hanging shelves or drilling through concrete, this drill gets the job done with reliable power and accuracy.
This cordless combi drill packs impressive power into a surprisingly lightweight package, thanks to its 18V Li-ion battery that charges in just an hour. The tool's keyless chuck handles bits from 2 to 13mm, while its variable speed trigger ensures precise control for all your DIY projects. The LED work light and included accessories make it a practical choice for both pros and weekend warriors who value performance without the bulk of heavier drills.
This versatile 12V lithium-ion drill driver combines compact size with significant torque for both overhead and general-purpose home projects. The included 50-piece kit features essentials like wrenches, pliers, and a level, while the powerful impact drill handles everything from drywall to wood with ease. Users particularly appreciate the drill's lightweight design and the practical storage solutions that keep tools organized and accessible.
This lightweight 2.4-pound drill driver fits effortlessly into toolkits, from home desks to dorm rooms. Its 350-inch pound torque delivers power for serious drilling, while the 0-1350RPM speed range handles everything from fast nailing to precise screw jobs. The tool's durable steel frame and comfortable grip make it a practical choice for both new and experienced users.
With its 21V power and 45Nm torque, the Jaylene cordless drill handles tough jobs with ease. The 3/8" keyless chuck and variable speed settings make quick work of drilling in wood, metal, and masonry, while the built-in LED light keeps you seeing clearly in dark corners. The compact pistol-grip design lets you reach tight spaces, and the included 2 x 2000mAh lithium polymer batteries provide plenty of runtime for your projects.
The Dedeo cordless drill combines 300 inch-pound torque with a lightweight 1.8-pound frame for impressive performance that rivals larger tools. Its 18 clutch settings and stepless speed control deliver precision in various applications, from home renovation to automotive maintenance. The tool's keyless chuck and built-in LED light make it incredibly user-friendly, while the durable lithium-ion battery offers reliable power for extended use.
The STEELMAN CDL 20V cordless drill brings serious power to your toolkit with its brushless motor that handles everything from light drilling to tough metal work. The reversible design lets you adjust torque on the fly, while the 2-13mm chuck grips bits from fine details to half-inch screws. A bright LED light in the handle keeps your workspace illuminated when the lights go out.
Every home toolbox deserves a reliable drill, and this cordless option doesn't disappoint. With 350 inches of torque and speeds up to 1350 RPM, it handles everything from quick screwjobs to serious drilling. The keyless chuck and 18+1 clutch system make it a breeze to switch between tasks, while the LED light ensures you're always working safely.
This compact impact driver packs surprising power for its size, thanks to its brushless motor that handles 30% more torque than traditional models. At just 2 pounds, it's a breeze to work with in tight spaces, while the 1.5Ah lithium-ion battery provides decent runtime for an everyday tool. The quick-release chuck and LED light make it a practical addition to any toolkit, offering plenty of value for the money.
This versatile cordless drill packs surprising power into a lightweight design, delivering consistent torque through its 15+1 position adjustable clutch to prevent screw stripping. The 1.5 Ah Li-Ion battery provides generous runtime for extended DIY sessions, while the ergonomic variable speed trigger keeps your project going smoothly from start to finish.
This handy air drill packs a surprising amount of punch for its size, effortlessly spinning through light metals and wood with its consistent 1700 RPM. The clever fingertip reverse control makes quick work of stubborn fasteners, while the solid Jacob's chuck keeps your bits tight and secure. Whether you're sinking deck screws or drilling precision holes, this reliable tool has earned its keep with countless satisfied users over the years.
Black & Decker's 20V Cordless Drill packs impressive power into a surprisingly handy package. With its keyless chuck and 11-position clutch, it handles everything from delicate screws to solid steel with ease. The built-in LED light and organized bit storage make it a practical addition to any toolkit, while its interchangeable battery system lets you power up other Black & Deckers, too.
The 126-piece DEKOPRO tool kit pairs an 8V cordless drill with a 10mm keyless chuck for quick bit changes. The compact drill weighs just 1.65 pounds with built-in LED lighting, making it easy to work in tight spaces. The included type-C charger and USB compatibility ensure convenient charging, while the alloy steel construction stands up to heavy use.
With its powerful 5-amp motor delivering up to 3,000 RPM, this corded impact drill handles everything from drywall to dense concrete (just avoid reinforced surfaces). The 105-piece accessory set and 360-degree rotating handle make it comfortable for tough jobs, while the detachable depth gauge ensures precise drilling every time.
This versatile drill press combines precision with portability, featuring five distinct speed settings up to 3200 RPM for tackle tough materials like metal and wood. The 2.3-amp induction motor handles various bit sizes through its keyed chuck, while the adjustable 45-degree table bevels let you work on angled projects with ease. At just 23 inches tall, it installs easily on your bench or workstand, making it a practical addition for both professional and hobbyist shops.
The Hyper Tough drill packs serious power into a surprisingly durable package, handling everything from fine woodworking to heavy-duty concrete work with ease. Its variable speed and lock-on features make it incredibly versatile, while the 6-foot cord gives you plenty of freedom to move around. This isn't just a tool for weekend projects—it's built to last through year after year of serious use.
This versatile drill combines powerful performance with practical features like variable speed control and a 24-position clutch for precise torque adjustment. The included LED light illuminates your workspace while the titanium-coated drill bits cut through materials up to four times faster than standard bits. The compact design includes a handy bit storage compartment and rotates for easy mounting on 2x4s, making it perfect for both new and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
This versatile corded drill packs impressive 6.3 amps into a well-built package that handles everything from everyday home projects to serious DIY jobs like drilling through tough materials. Users praise its reliable performance and handy precision-cut gears that keep it running smoothly for years. From simple hole-drilling tasks to tough assignments like removing stubborn tree stumps, this drill proves itself as a solid, satisfying tool for any garage or workshop.
This versatile cordless drill combines lightweight design with practical features like a keyless chuck and LED charging indicator. Its compact size and modest 400 RPM motor make it ideal for everyday household tasks, from hanging pictures to drilling into drywall. The tool's microUSB charging compatibility and robust battery life ensure it's always ready for your next project.
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.
This versatile mini drill makes crafting a breeze with its 3-speed motor and interchangeable bits. The ergonomic aluminum design keeps your hands comfy during long sessions, while the built-in grip prevention keeps your bits from slipping. Perfect for resin work and jewelry-making, this little powerhouse packs pro features in a super-convenient package.
With its compact 7.4-inch frame and 350W motor, the cordless drill makes quick work of tough screwdriving jobs. The dual 1.5Ah lithium-ion batteries deliver consistent power for up to two consecutive hours of use, while the 3/8-inch chuck grips bits securely for precise drilling. Whether you're hanging shelves or installing baseboards, this versatile drill handles it all with 36 N. m of torque and 1500 RPM of speed.
This 20V cordless hammer drill combines impressive power with a surprisingly comfortable design, as numerous reviewers have happily noted. With its 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck and two speed settings, it handles everything from wood to masonry with ease. The lithium-ion battery provides reliable performance, though some users have suggested investing in a faster charger for convenience. When it comes time to tackle your next home improvement project, this versatile drill is more than up to the task.
The jar-owl power tool combo kit gives you 16.8V cordless drilling power with LED guidance, spinning between 0-1300 and 0-350rpm for both heavy and light tasks. It'll handle wood, metal, and plastic with its 22mm wood and 10mm steel drilling capacity, while the 2-gear system lets you tackle whatever comes your way.
This comprehensive toolkit combines a reliable 12-volt drill with essential hand tools in a practical ABS enclosure. The included chrome vanadium screwdrivers and precision bits cover most household repair needs, while the dual-purpose hex system allows versatile operation in the drill or handheld driver. The lockable case keeps the 27-piece set organized and the tools handy for everyday projects.
Buyer's Guide
A cheap drill is a practical tool for basic drilling tasks and home improvement projects. Consider several key factors to select the right drill for your needs.
Power Source
Drills come in corded, cordless, and impact variants. Corded drills offer consistent power but need access to an electrical outlet. Cordless drills provide greater mobility via rechargeable batteries but have limited runtime. Impact drills deliver powerful blows for tough materials but consume more battery power.
Bit Compatibility
Drills accepting standard 1/4" drill bits offer the most compatibility. Higher-end models may feature larger collets for 3/8" or 1/2" bits, allowing more precise drilling. The chuck mechanism should lock bits securely and release them easily, with twist chucks typically more reliable than keyless types.
Size and Weight
Lightweight drills (under 2 pounds) are easier to handle for extended use, while heavier models (3-4 pounds) provide better torque for demanding tasks. Compact designs minimize wrist strain, while longer handles improve control. Consider the drill's overall dimensions when measuring workspace access.
Additional Features
Key features include adjustable torque settings for controlled drilling, LED lights for dark work areas, and moisture-resistant designs for wet environments. Battery-powered drills benefit from features like low battery warning, overcharge protection, and reversible bits. For impact drills, check for variable speed controls and dust extraction systems.
FAQ
What makes a drill "cheap"?
A cheap drill is generally one that offers basic functionality at a lower price point, often with fewer features and less premium materials than more expensive models. These drills are suitable for occasional use and simple tasks, though they may not perform as well or last as long as higher-end options.
Cheap drills typically include essential features like a variable speed setting and basic bit holders, but may lack advanced functions such as LED lights, ergonomic grips, or precise triggers. The motor quality and build materials tend to be standard, which affects their durability and performance over time.
Can a cheap drill handle professional work?
Cheaper drills are generally not recommended for professional use, as they often lack the torque, speed control, and durability needed for heavy-duty tasks. Their motors may overheat quickly under load, and their components are more prone to wear and failure.
For professional work, consider investing in a mid-range or industrial-grade drill, which will provide consistent performance, longer lifespan, and the necessary features for demanding applications.
What's the difference between corded and cordless cheap drills?
Corded cheap drills are typically more affordable than their cordless counterparts and offer continuous power without the need for recharging. They are best for locations with readily accessible electrical outlets and are often lighter and simpler in design.
Cordless cheap drills provide the freedom to work in any location, with prices often similar to or slightly higher than corded models. They use rechargeable batteries that offer varying run times, from 20 to 40 minutes depending on the battery size and usage intensity.
What maintenance do cheap drills require?
Cheap drills generally require basic maintenance: regular cleaning of the exterior, ensuring the battery and cord (if applicable) are free from damage, and occasional checking of the chuck and battery connections. The motor and internal components typically do not need servicing unless serviceable, though this is uncommon in consumer-grade drills.
To extend the life of your drill, store it in a dry place when not in use, avoid running it continuously for long periods, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for battery care (such as proper charging and storage).
How do I choose between trigger-style and keyless chuck drills?
Trigger-style cheap drills are the most common type, featuring a spring-loaded trigger that requires consistent pressure to maintain operation. They are simple, reliable, and have been the standard for decades.
Keyless chucks require a specialized key to adjust bit sizes quickly and efficiently. They offer faster bit changes and better grip on smaller bits, making them convenient for users who frequently switch between different bit sizes.
What's the typical price range for cheap drills?
The price range for cheap drills typically falls between $20 to $50 for corded models and $40 to $80 for cordless options, depending on the brand and specific features. Major retailers often offer seasonal discounts, so prices can vary based on current promotions.
Entry-level drills in this price range often come with basic warranties (usually 1-3 years), limited accessories, and basic features. Higher prices typically translate to better motor quality, longer battery life (for cordless models), and more user-friendly designs.
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