Cordless drills are one of the most common handyman tools that feature portability compared to wired electric drills. Most of the cordless drills nowadays use lithium ion rechargeable batteries.



It is important that comparison tests and assessment be performed before purchasing the power tool you needed. It should focus on the balance of use and functionality and its easy usage. It is also a must to know the specific function we require for our tools that will help us in deciding the right tool to purchase.

In most cases, we consider buying the biggest and most powerful tool that we can buy, but this is not applicable for portable power tools. They can perform as well as bigger tools. There are less expensive cordless drills which offer more features compared to larger power tools.

Here is a quick guide on different cordless drill types and uses:

•Cordless drill/drivers: These are the most common type of cordless tools. They are capable of drilling holes and can also function as screwdrivers. They come with adjustable clutches that reduces the torque power applied to a screw. These cordless drills are ideal for home use with their multi-function capability.

•Cordless hammer drill/drivers: These are types of cordless tools that are capable of drilling bricks and cements. These tools are heavier but have the power to penetrate hard objects. These tools come with special designed clutches that function similarly with a jackhammer while spinning.

•Cordless impact drivers: These power tools are ideal for driving large screws commonly used for buildings. These are capable of sensing resistance and they automatically increase the torque power so as to prevent the bit slipping out of the screw head.

•Cordless screwdrivers: These tools are smaller and lighter compared to the other cordless tools. With their size, they are sometimes called palm drivers. They are ideal in making picture frames, shelves, and furniture assembly.

In choosing the best cordless drills, it is a must to look into the features that these tools can offer. Here are some important cordless drill features that we should take into consideration when choosing the one for our use.

•14.4 volt to 18-volt cordless drills: A higher voltage is best for more power and longer usability. A 12-volt cordless drill is quite enough but if you are planning to add a circular saw that uses the same battery, it is best to choose a higher voltage. This would be a good investment since you can switch batteries with your other cordless tools. A 36-volt lithium-ion tool is best for full time use in construction sites while a lower voltage is convenient enough for your household jobs.

•Choose a fast charger. A fast charger is best in most situations. New models of cordless drills come with a charger with 30 minute or even as fast as 15 minute charging time. It is best to choose a cordless tool that comes with a smart charger. These chargers are capable of automatically turning off when it detects that the battery is fully charged, which prevents overheating and avoids damage to the batteries.

•Lithium-ion batteries: Choose a cordless tool with lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are expensive but they have longer lifespan compared to NiCad batteries. In addition, they provide three times running time compared to their predecessors.

•Torque power: A general rule applies that the higher the voltage, the higher is the torque. Remember a powerful torque can do the job quickly and efficiently.

•Pressure-sensitive trigger: This is a very convenient feature, which is used to decrease the speed of the torque as the screw head reaches the wood and prevents stripping or breaking it.

•One-sleeve keyless chucks: This feature allows an easier way of tightening the bits in place even with one hand. It is important that the chuck should be able to grasp the bits firmly and prevent slips.

It is best to choose your power tool with careful assessment based on the most essential features and vital details of the said tool.