If you’ve shopped for a cordless drill recently, you’ve seen the term brushless motor everywhere. But what does it actually mean, and why should you care? Simply put, a brushless motor replaces the physical carbon brushes and commutator found in traditional brushed motors with an electronic controller. This swap delivers more power, longer runtime, and greater durability — especially important in demanding cordless drills.
Top brands like DEWALT, CRAFTSMAN, and BLACK+DECKER have embraced brushless technology across their lineup. For example, the DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless Drill Driver (DCD777D1) packs impressive torque and battery efficiency into a compact frame. But brushless isn’t the only option. Let’s compare the best cordless drills on the market right now to help you decide.
Top Cordless Drill Comparison (Brushless vs. Brushed)
| Product | Motor Type | Price | Rating | Image | Buy at Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEWALT 20V Max DCD771C2 (1.3Ah XR) | Brushed | $89.10 | 4.8 |  |
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| DEWALT 20V Max DCK240C2 (Drill+Impact Combo) | Brushed | $149.00 | 4.7 |  |
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| DEWALT 20V Max DCD777D1 (Brushless) | Brushless | $89.10 | 4.7 |  |
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| DEKOPRO 20V Cordless Drill | Brushed | $24.79 | 4.5 |  |
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| CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCD700C1 | Brushed | $59.00 | 4.7 |  |
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| PULITUO 20V Drill (2 Batteries) | Brushed | $35.99 | 4.5 |  |
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| DEWALT 20V Max DCK277D2 (Brushless Combo) | Brushless | $152.10 | 4.8 |  |
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| CRAFTSMAN V20 MAX CMCK200C2 (Combo) | Brushed | $99.00 | 4.8 |  |
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| BLACK+DECKER 12V BDCDD12C | Brushed | $34.99 | 4.6 |  |
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| BLACK+DECKER 20V BCD702C1 | Brushed | $44.99 | 4.7 |  |
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| AVID POWER 20V Drill Set | Brushed | $39.99 | 4.6 |  |
Buy Now |
| DCK 20V Brushless Hammer Drill | Brushless | $75.99 | 4.6 |  |
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How a Brushless Motor Works
A brushless motor uses an electronic controller to energize electromagnets in sequence, spinning the rotor without physical contact. This eliminates friction and sparking from carbon brushes. The result is up to 50% more runtime per battery charge and higher torque output.
In a cordless drill, this means you can drive screws into hardwood or drill through masonry without bogging down. Brushless motors also run cooler, which extends both motor and battery life.
Brushed vs. Brushless: Which Is Better?
| Feature | Brushed Motor | Brushless Motor |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency | Lower (energy lost as heat) | Higher (less heat, more power) |
| Torque | Good, but drops as brushes wear | Consistent peak torque |
| Durability | Brushes wear out (replaceable) | No brushes to replace |
| Size/Weight | Larger & heavier | Compact & lightweight |
| Cost | Cheaper | More expensive upfront |
| Runtime | Shorter | Longer |
For most DIYers and pros, brushless is worth the investment if you use a drill frequently. Budget-friendly brushed drills like the DEKOPRO 20V ($24.79) or BLACK+DECKER 12V ($34.99) are perfect for light home tasks. But for regular projects, a brushless model like the DEWALT DCK277D2 combo kit delivers pro-level performance.
Key Features to Look For in a Brushless Cordless Drill
When shopping, pay attention to these specs (linked to our detailed guide on Cordless Drill Specs Explained):
- Voltage – Higher voltage (20V max) means more power.
- Torque (in-lbs) – More torque for tough materials.
- Speed settings – Variable speed trigger and two-speed gearbox.
- Clutch – Adjustable clutch prevents stripping screws (Clutch Settings on Drills).
- Chuck type – 1/2″ keyless metal chuck is standard.
Also consider the variable speed trigger (Variable Speed Trigger Explained) for precise control, especially in brushless drills where the electronics respond instantly.
Best Brushless Cordless Drill Recommendations
Best Overall: DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless Combo Kit (DCK277D2)
$152.10 | ★4.8 | 4,200+ reviews
This kit includes a brushless drill and impact driver with two batteries. It’s tough enough for framers yet compact for overhead work. The brushless motor delivers 30% more runtime than brushed DEWALT models.
Best Value Brushless Drill: DEWALT DCD777D1
$89.10 | ★4.7
A single-tool kit with a brushless motor, 2.0Ah battery, and LED light. Perfect for homeowners who want brushless performance without the combo price. Compare this to the brushed DEWALT DCD771C2 ($89.10) — same price, but the DCD777D1 gives you brushless efficiency.
Best Budget Brushed Drill: CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCD700C1
$59.00 | ★4.7
A solid brushed drill with a 1/2″ chuck, two speed settings, and a 1.5Ah battery. Great for light DIY. If you need a compact tool, check out our comparison of Compact Drill vs Full-size Drill.
Best Heavy-Duty Brushless: DCK 20V Brushless Hammer Drill
$75.99 | ★4.6
This hammer drill delivers 531 in-lbs of torque and 36,000 BPM for masonry drilling. The brushless motor and 4.0Ah battery make it a powerhouse at a budget-friendly price.
Best Combo Kit (Brushed): CRAFTSMAN V20 MAX CMCK200C2
$99.00 | ★4.8
Two tools (drill and impact driver), two batteries, charger, and bag. A fantastic value for those who don’t need brushless. Pair it with the DEWALT DCK240C2 ($149) for comparison — the DEWALT has slightly higher build quality, but CRAFTSMAN wins on price.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy a Brushless Drill?
If you drill more than once a month, go brushless. The extra upfront cost pays off in battery life, power, and tool longevity. For occasional users, brushed drills like the BLACK+DECKER 20V BCD702C1 ($44.99) or AVID POWER 20V ($39.99) are perfectly adequate.
No matter your choice, brushless motors are the future of cordless drills. And now you know exactly what makes them tick.
Looking for more drill specs? Read our Cordless Drill Specs Explained guide.