| Product | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
 1. DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX Compact Drill/Driver Kit (DCD708C2) DEWALT Best Overall | Check Price | |
 2. CRAFTSMAN V20 Drill Kit (CMCD700C1) CRAFTSMAN Best Budget Kit | Check Price | |
 3. RYOBI ONE+ 18V Drill/Driver (PCL206B) RYOBI Best for Ecosystem Starters | Check Price | |
 4. BOSCH PS31-2A 12V Max Drill Kit BOSCH Best Ultra-Lightweight | Check Price | |
 5. Milwaukee M18 Compact Drill Kit (2606-22CT) Milwaukee Best Step-Up Pick | Check Price |
Detailed Reviews
DEWALT
1. DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX Compact Drill/Driver Kit (DCD708C2)
Pros
- 20V MAX power in a compact body that's comfortable for new users
- 1/2-inch chuck accepts the widest range of standard drill bits
- Kit includes two batteries and a charger — everything you need in one box
Cons
- Smaller battery than full-size 20V MAX kits means shorter runtime
- Drill/driver only — no hammer mode if you plan to drill into concrete
The DCD708C2 hits the right balance for someone buying their first drill: genuine 20V power, a compact grip that doesn't tire your hand, and a complete kit so there's nothing extra to source. It's also the entry point into DEWALT's 20V MAX ecosystem for future tools.
CRAFTSMAN
2. CRAFTSMAN V20 Drill Kit (CMCD700C1)
Pros
- V20 battery and charger included for a complete out-of-box setup
- 1/2-inch chuck handles typical household drilling and driving tasks
- V20 platform supports a full lineup of CRAFTSMAN cordless tools
Cons
- Grip ergonomics are less refined than premium drill bodies
- Included battery capacity is lower than higher-Ah V20 upgrade packs
The CMCD700C1 is the straightforward choice when the goal is a capable 20V drill with everything included and no complicated decisions. The V20 ecosystem also means you can add other CRAFTSMAN tools later without buying a new battery or charger.
RYOBI
3. RYOBI ONE+ 18V Drill/Driver (PCL206B)
Pros
- ONE+ platform connects to hundreds of RYOBI 18V tools on one battery
- 18V output and 1/2-inch chuck handle everyday home-improvement work
- Tool-only pricing benefits anyone who already owns a ONE+ battery
Cons
- Sold tool-only — beginners without a ONE+ battery need to add one
- ONE+ batteries are not compatible with tools from other brands
The PCL206B is the right starting drill if you're planning to build a full tool set — because the same ONE+ battery that powers this drill also works in RYOBI circular saws, jigsaws, and much more. If you already own any ONE+ tool, the tool-only price makes this an easy add.
BOSCH
4. BOSCH PS31-2A 12V Max Drill Kit
Pros
- 12V Max battery keeps total weight lower than any 18V option
- Two batteries and charger included for continuous use
- 3/8-inch chuck handles standard twist bits and small screwdriver shanks
Cons
- 12V output has less torque than 18V or 20V drills on heavier materials
- 3/8-inch chuck cannot accept 1/2-inch shank bits or large spade bits
The PS31-2A is the right pick when the drill needs to feel like it disappears in your hand — ideal for apartment living, furniture assembly, and hanging shelves without fatigue. Two batteries keep work moving, though you'll want an 18V option if you're regularly driving long screws.
Milwaukee
5. Milwaukee M18 Compact Drill Kit (2606-22CT)
Pros
- M18 platform gives access to Milwaukee's full professional tool lineup
- 1/2-inch chuck in a compact body for everyday drilling and driving
- Kit includes two batteries and charger for all-day use
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than the other four drills on this list
- No hammer mode — cannot drill into concrete or masonry
If you're serious about tools long-term, the M18 2606-22CT is the drill that gives you a real head start. Buying into Milwaukee M18 means your batteries work across a professional-grade lineup of saws, grinders, and more — so the initial step up pays back over the life of your tool collection.
How We Picked
We evaluated each drill against the specific needs of someone buying their first power tool or returning to DIY after a long break. Manufacturer specifications set the baseline — voltage, chuck size, included accessories, and battery type. From there, we analyzed verified buyer reviews to understand how each drill felt in less-experienced hands, how quickly the battery depleted on typical household tasks, and how easy it was to change bits and adjust the clutch. We also considered whether each drill represents a practical entry into its battery ecosystem — because your first drill often determines which brand’s batteries you’ll own for the next several years. If you’re ready to move beyond beginner territory, our 10 best cordless drills roundup covers hammer drills and professional-grade options.
Buying Guide
Start with 18V or 20V MAX
For most beginner tasks — hanging shelves, assembling furniture, drilling through drywall and wood — an 18V or 20V MAX drill delivers the right balance of power and manageable weight. The DEWALT ATOMIC DCD708C2 and CRAFTSMAN V20 run on 20V and are light enough for extended work without arm fatigue. The RYOBI ONE+ PCL206B runs on 18V, which is functionally equivalent in everyday home drilling. The BOSCH PS31-2A’s 12V is a valid choice when weight is the main concern, though it has less torque on thick hardwood or longer fasteners. Avoid jumping straight to a large hammer drill as your first purchase — they’re heavier and more specialized than most beginners need.
Look for a Kit (Battery and Charger Included)
The biggest hidden surprise for new tool owners is discovering that a drill is sold without its battery. The DEWALT ATOMIC DCD708C2, CRAFTSMAN V20, and BOSCH PS31-2A are all complete kits — everything you need to start drilling is included. The RYOBI ONE+ PCL206B is sold tool-only, which is excellent value if you already own a ONE+ battery but adds to the starting cost if you don’t. The Milwaukee M18 2606-22CT kit includes two batteries and a charger, making it a complete package despite its step-up positioning.
Brushless or Brushed Motor?
As a beginner, you don’t need to prioritize this above everything else — both motor types handle standard household tasks without issue. Brushless motors run more efficiently and last longer, but they typically cost more. If you’re using the drill a few times a month for light projects, a brushed motor will serve you reliably for years. If you plan to tackle ongoing renovations or regular weekend projects, the brushless DEWALT ATOMIC DCD708C2 at the top of this list is the better long-term pick, though none of the other drills on this list will disappoint for typical use.
Chuck Size: 1/2-Inch vs 3/8-Inch
Four of the five drills on this list use a 1/2-inch chuck — the standard for most cordless drills — which accepts the full range of common bits including spade bits for larger holes. The BOSCH PS31-2A uses a 3/8-inch chuck, standard for 12V tools, which handles everyday twist bits and screwdriver shanks perfectly but won’t fit 1/2-inch shank accessories. For most beginners, 1/2-inch is the more flexible starting point if you’re uncertain what bits you’ll eventually need.
Understanding the Clutch
The numbered ring near the chuck controls how much torque the drill applies before slipping. Set it low — around 1 or 2 — when driving small screws into soft wood or drywall, so the clutch disengages before you strip the head. Increase the number as the material gets denser. Switch to the drill mode (often marked with a drill bit icon) when boring holes — you want full torque there, with no slippage. New users often strip screws by running the clutch too high; start lower than you think you need and adjust upward.
Starting Out Right
A few small habits make drilling much easier from the start. Use a center punch or a nail to put a small dimple in the surface before drilling — it keeps the bit from wandering sideways when you begin. For screws in hardwood, drill a pilot hole first to prevent the wood from splitting. When driving screws, let the clutch do its job: the drill slips when the screw is fully seated, protecting the head and the material underneath. Keep the drill perpendicular to the surface as you work — angled screws pull out more easily than straight ones. For changing bits, grip the chuck firmly and turn it by hand rather than running the drill motor; most keyless chucks tighten fully with a firm hand grip. Finally, always remove the battery before changing a bit. It takes two seconds and eliminates the risk of an accidental start.