While it seems like most people are migrating away from using corded drill models in favor of their cordless cousins, the best corded drill models still continue to be quite popular. Why is that the case? That’s because these type of drills offer benefits that cordless drills don’t. For example, they don’t have to be constantly recharged like cordless models and are often more powerful as well. Of course, since not every tool is created equal, the consumer still has to figure out which corded tool is the best and that’s where I come in. I decided to look into the subject to find out which models are really the best to buy. Below you’ll find ten of the best-corded drill models currently available. These are drills that will get the job done and do so without a whole lot of drama.
10. Bosch 1006VSR 3/8-Inch Key-less Chuck
This tool is consistently rated as one of the best in class as far as the power-to-weight ratio is concerned. It has a 3/8th Jacobs ratcheting key-less chuck that holds accessories extremely well and does so with little to no slippage. It also has an over-sized two-finger trigger which makes it very comfortable, especially when the user is changing drilling speed. Another key feature found on this drill is an improved lock-on switch that’s recessed in the handle. All of these points simply mean that this drill is capable of performing in the way you need it to, day in and day out.
9. Black & Decker Matrix AC Drill/Driver
The Black & Decker Matrix is a drill/driver that’s capable of handling a wide assortment of jobs. It has an 11-position clutch that gives the user the control they need and prevents the over-driving or stripping of screws. This drill is not only lightweight but also compact as well and is easy to take from job to job. And since it has a 4.0-Amp motor, it has more than enough power to do heavy-duty drill or driving when it arrives. Equipped with the Matrix Quick Connect System, it can use a variety of attachments that increase its working range and make it a more useful tool.
8. Porter Cable 6.0-AMP 3/8-Inch PC600D
This tool is designed to handle even demanding jobs and to be as easy-to-use as possible. This model has a 6.0-Amp motor that’s capable of reaching between 0 to 2,500 RPM and has a 3/8th-inch key-less chuck that makes for some pretty easy and hassle-free bit changes. It is also equipped with a lock-on button that makes the drill easier to control during long jobs and has a high-torque gear design that gives it the ability to drill through any number of different materials including wood, plastic, and metal. And since it’s a corded model, it doesn’t have the same limitations that cordless models do.
7. SKIL 7.0-Amp 65535-02
Designed to handle big projects, this drill is equipped with a 7.0-amp motor that provides a no-load speed of up to 950 RPM and is capable of handling some heavy-duty jobs. It has a 1/2-inch keyed chuck that can accept larger diameter bits that are often used for cutting or for woodworking purposes. This model also has a variable speed trigger for controlling its speed and a side-assist handle that gives the user more control as they drill. Overall, it’s a drill that’s ideal for both professional contractors and amateur DIY enthusiasts.
6. Black & Decker 5.2-Amp 3/8-Inch DR260B Drill/Driver
A number of features are incorporated into this drill which makes it suitable for a variety of different jobs. It has a powerful 5.2-Amp motor and variable speed control which allows the user to decide the speed and power they need while they are driving screws or drilling. This tool is not only compact but also lightweight, which allows it to be used in even the tightest of spaces and it has a bubble level that helps the user drill accurately. Other features found on this tool include a key-less chuck for quick bit changes, on-board bit storage, and a 6-foot power cord.
5. Dewalt 3/8-Inch DWE1014
This variable speed drill has a 3/8-inch keyed chuck and a powerful 7.0-Amp motor that gives the user the power the drill through just about anything, including wood metal and concrete with the correct bit. Another key feature found on this tool is a lock-on switch which reduces hand fatigue while the user is using the tool. With a compact and lightweight design, this drill is easy-to-hold and use and can be maneuvered in even tight spaces. This Dewalt 3/8 drill is not just suitable for use around the home but also for tasks at a professional job site.
4. Hitachi 6.0-Amp 3/8-Inch D10VH
Equipped with a powerful 6.0-Amp single-phase motor that delivers up to 108.1 inch-pounds of max. torque and a variable-speed trigger, this drill is able to give the user the power they need without it being hard to use. This tool has a form-fit grip that makes it easy-to-hold and which protects the user’s hands from some of this tool’s vibrations and a key-less chuck. This Hitachi 3/8 drill is versatile to use for just about any job and is powerful enough to handle heavy-duty tasks. All of which allows it to drill through wood, metal, stainless steel and plastic resins.
3. Dewalt 8-Amp 3/8-Inch DWD115K
Designed with a powerful 8-AMP motor and manufactured using an all ball-bearing construction, this Dewalt VSR is designed to take on even heavy-duty jobs. It has a 3/8-inch all-metal ratcheting key-less chuck that has great bit retention and a VSR trigger that allows the user to decide on a speed between 0 and 2,500 RPM. This drill also has a mid-handle grip with a soft grip feature that makes it easier to hold and use. All things considered, this drill is one of the best ones currently available and will handle all kinds of jobs, both on an amateur and a professional level.
2. Dewalt 9-Amp 1/2-Inch Spade Handle DW130V
With a 9-Amp motor that can provide between 0 and 550 RPM of torque, this spade handle drill can handle a number of jobs. It can spade bit drill through wood up to 1.5-inches thick, hole saw drill through wood up to 5-inches thick, twist bit drill through steel 1/2-inch thick and hole saw through steel 3-inches thick. It weighs approximately 7.5-pounds, has a soft grip handle for comfort and has three position side and two position rear handles so the user can have added leverage while drilling. This Dewalt 1/2-Inch drill is just the right balance between power and usability.
1. Dewalt 10-Amp 1/2-Inch DWD210G
This pistol-grip drill is ideal for anyone looking for both power and versatility when they are on the job site. It has an extremely powerful 10-Amp motor that delivers up to 1,200 RPM and has overload protection built into it. Another key feature that can be found in this tool is a soft grip handle that’s easy to hold and a two-finger trigger that’s easy to depress. With a 360-degree locking side handle for better control and metal gear housing for durability on the job, this drill is rugged enough to handle just about any work environment. It’s a tool that delivers increased professional performance and yet it only weighs around 7-pounds.
A Simple Guide To Corded Drills
The decision to choose a cordless or a corded drill can be a difficult decision for anyone to make because both of these tools are effective at what they do. They’re both capable of getting the job of drilling and screwing done, but they both have their disadvantages as well. For example, most cordless drills don’t have much power and the ones that do have heavy batteries that the user has to carry around with them. Corded drills can be both light and powerful, but the user has to have access to an outlet, or an electrical cord plugged into an outlet to use it. With that being said, however, both of these tools are quite useful.
Although both of these tools are useful, in this guide we’re going to be talking about corded drills and leave the cordless ones for another article. We want to talk about the features that a consumer should consider before buying a new corded drill. After all, not all corded drills are the same, so the consumer is going to want to think about a few things before they buy their drill. This will ensure that they buy the best-corded drills for their needs and not spend more on it than they have to spend.
Consider The Drill’s Motor
When considering a corded drill, it’s important to choose one with the best motor possible. Although consumers generally have several different drill motors to choose from, most professionals choose drills that have brushless motors. Brushless motors not only last longer than conventional motors, but they tend to be lighter and have more power, too. And they’re a whole lot quieter to use.
Consider Power & Speed
The next thing to think about is how much power you need the drill to have. Most consumer drills have a rating of 4 to 8-amps, and that’s more than sufficient for DIY projects or light repair work. Most home drills also have a speed of approximately 600 to 1,000 RPMs, which is more than sufficient. However, if you need something a little more powerful, such as a professional model drill, then you are probably going to want to consider a drill that has at least 10 to 12-amps of power. For heavy-duty projects, you also want to consider the speed of at least 1,000 RPMs, but 2,000 RPMs is a whole lot better.
Think About Variable Speed Control
Variable speed control allows the user to operate the drill at the speed they need it to operate at. Models that don’t have variable speed control are either off or on full-speed. Variable speed allows a little bit more of a speed nuance, however, so it’s better to have this feature than not to have it.
Think About Adjustable Torque
Some corded drills have adjustable torque settings that allow the user to up the torque for difficult jobs and back the torque off for easier jobs. If you’re wondering why drills all just don’t provide the maximum amount of torque instead of using adjustable torque settings, then you might want to consider this little nugget: If too much torque is applied to a screw head, then it can easily shear it off, so anytime you can adjust torque levels, then it’s probably a good thing.
Consider The Drill’s Cord Length
Since these drills are corded, it’s important to buy one with a cord length that will work well for you. Even though there isn’t an average corded drill cord length to consider, most of them have cords that are anywhere from 3-feet up to 10-feet in size. It doesn’t matter what size cord you choose, just be sure that you get one long enough that you can get your work done easily.
Additional Features To Consider
Buying a corded drill with any of the above basics will ensure that you get the best-corded drill possible. However, if you want to up your game a little bit and look for a drill that has a few more features, then take a look at the following list. Below, we’ve listed some other features that you may want to consider. Although the following features aren’t necessary for the operation of your drill, they do make these tools a lot easier to use and are something to think about.
- Built-In LED Lights
- Built-In Level
- Adjustable Side Handle
- Carrying Case Or Bag
- Include Drill Bits Or Sets
- Reverse Function
- Keyless Chuck
- Trigger-Lock
- Safety Switch
- Belt Clip
- Non-Slip Rubber Grip
