If you’re exploring the world of cordless drills, Ryobi has carved out a massive following by offering reliable performance at reasonable prices. But what truly sets Ryobi apart is its One+ ecosystem – a single battery platform that powers over 260 tools. This means you can buy a Ryobi drill and later add a saw, blower, or even a radio without investing in new batteries. For DIYers and homeowners, that’s a game-changer.
Still, Ryobi isn’t the only player in town. Brands like Dewalt, Craftsman, and Black+Decker offer compelling alternatives, especially if you need more power, a brushless motor, or a specific price point. In this guide, we’ll break down the best cordless drills for 2024, starting with a quick comparison and diving deep into each option so you can choose the right tool for your projects.
Quick Comparison: Top Cordless Drills in 2024
| Product | Price | Rating | Image | Buy at Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEWALT 20V Max Drill (DCD771C2) | $89.10 | 4.8 |  |
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| DEWALT 20V MAX Drill+Impact Combo (DCK240C2) | $149.00 | 4.7 |  |
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| DEWALT Brushless Drill (DCD777D1) | $89.10 | 4.7 |  |
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| CRAFTSMAN V20 Drill Kit (CMCD700C1) | $59.00 | 4.7 |  |
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| CRAFTSMAN V20 Combo (CMCK200C2) | $99.00 | 4.8 |  |
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| DEWALT Brushless Combo (DCK277D2) | $152.10 | 4.8 |  |
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| DCK 20V Brushless Hammer Drill | $75.99 | 4.6 |  |
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| DEKOPRO 20V Cordless Drill | $24.79 | 4.5 |  |
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| BLACK+DECKER 12V MAX (BDCDD12C) | $34.99 | 4.6 |  |
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| PULITUO 20V Drill/Driver | $35.99 | 4.5 |  |
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| AVID POWER 20V Drill Set | $39.99 | 4.6 |  |
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| BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX (BCD702C1) | $44.99 | 4.7 |  |
Buy Now |
Why Ryobi Leads the DIY Ecosystem
Ryobi’s 18V One+ system is the star of the show for home users. When you buy a Ryobi cordless drill, you’re locking into a battery platform that works with everything from leaf blowers to inflators. That saves money and closet space. The drills themselves are comfortable, feature LED lights, and offer variable speed triggers perfect for light to medium work.
However, if you need heavier torque for masonry or constant daily use on a job site, competitors like Dewalt and Craftsman often step up with brushless motors and higher amp-hour batteries. Let’s examine the top alternatives to Ryobi – many of which are available right now at great prices.
Top-Rated Cordless Drills – Detailed Reviews
DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill Driver Set (DCD771C2)
This drill is a legend in the power tool world. With a 4.8-star average from nearly 50,000 reviews, the DCD771C2 delivers 300 unit watts out (UWO) of power – enough for most drilling and driving tasks. It comes with two 1.3Ah XR batteries, a charger, and a contractor bag.
Pros
- Excellent value for a 2-battery kit
- Compact and lightweight (3.6 lbs)
- High-speed transmission (0-450/1,500 RPM)
Cons
- Brushed motor (slightly less efficient than brushless)
If you’re on a budget but want Dewalt reliability, this set is hard to beat. For a deeper look, check out our Dewalt Cordless Drills guide.
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Combo (DCK240C2)
Need both a drill and an impact driver? This combo kit gives you two essential tools, plus two batteries and a bag, for $149. The impact driver delivers 1,400 in-lbs of torque, making it perfect for driving long screws or lag bolts.
Pros
- Two tools for the price of one
- Batteries interchange with all Dewalt 20V tools
- LED lights on both tools
Cons
- Brushed motors (brushless version available for more)
This is the ideal starter kit for a homeowner who wants to tackle furniture assembly, deck repairs, and general DIY.
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill/Driver Kit (CMCD700C1)
Craftsman’s V20 line is a direct competitor to Ryobi. At $59, this 1/2-inch drill includes a battery and charger, making it one of the most affordable entry points into a 20V ecosystem. It’s rated 4.7 stars and offers 24-position clutch.
Pros
- Very budget-friendly
- Lifetime limited warranty
- Compact enough for tight spaces
Cons
- Only 1.5Ah battery (but V20 batteries are cross-compatible)
For light drilling into wood, drywall, and plastic, the CMCD700C1 is a solid choice. The Craftsman V20 platform also includes over 150 tools, similar to Ryobi’s One+.
CRAFTSMAN V20 MAX Drill and Impact Driver Set (CMCK200C2)
Stepping up to a combo kit, the CMCK200C2 offers both a drill and impact driver for $99. It includes two V20 batteries, a charger, an LED work light, and a bag. Rating: 4.8 from 8,800 reviews – a fan favorite.
Pros
- Great price for a 2-tool kit
- Impact driver has 1,500 in-lbs torque
- Includes useful accessories
Cons
- No brushless motor
If you want the best value combo under $100, this Craftsman set is tough to beat. It’s perfect for home maintenance and weekend projects.
DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless Drill and Impact Driver (DCK277D2)
For the pro user, this brushless combo from Dewalt delivers higher efficiency, longer runtime, and more torque. Priced at $152.10, it includes two 2.0Ah batteries and a bag. The brushless drill produces up to 340 UWO, and the impact driver offers 1,825 in-lbs.
Pros
- Brushless motors for max runtime
- Compact size (drill is only 7.1 inches long)
- LED work light with delay
Cons
- Batteries are 2.0Ah (4.0Ah available separately)
This is a top-tier choice for contractors or serious DIYers who need reliable power day in and day out.
DCK 20V Brushless Hammer Drill (KDJZ05-13)
Looking to drill into brick or concrete? This brushless hammer drill from DCK offers 531 in-lbs of torque and a hammer function with 36,000 BPM. It comes with a 4.0Ah battery – a huge advantage for extended work. Price: just $75.99.
Pros
- Hammer mode for masonry
- Large 4.0Ah battery included
- All-metal keyless chuck
Cons
- Lesser-known brand
- 1 battery only
If you occasionally need to drill into concrete or stone, this hammer drill at this price is a steal.
DEKOPRO 20V Cordless Drill – Under $25
At $24.79, the DEKOPRO is one of the cheapest cordless drills on Amazon. It’s a 20V driver with variable speed, LED light, and an included battery and charger. Rating: 4.5 stars from 6,700 reviews.
Pros
- Incredible price
- Works for light home tasks
- Includes 2 bits
Cons
- Low torque (not for heavy use)
This is perfect for a quick fix like assembling IKEA furniture or hanging a picture. For anything more, consider one of the higher-rated options above.
BLACK+DECKER 12V MAX Cordless Drill (BDCDD12C)
Black+Decker’s 12V drill is lightweight and compact – ideal for light-duty tasks. Priced at $34.99, it comes with a battery, charger, and built-in bit holder. Rating: 4.6.
Pros
- Very light (2.3 lbs)
- Easy storage
- Great for small hands
Cons
- 12V battery not compatible with 20V line
If you already own Black+Decker 12V tools, this is a natural add-on. Otherwise, the 20V version below might be better.
PULITUO 20V Cordless Drill/Driver – 2 Batteries
The PULITUO kit includes two 2.0Ah batteries, 21+1 torque settings, and a 3/8″ keyless chuck. At $35.99, it’s an excellent value for DIYers who hate waiting for a battery to charge.
Pros
- Two batteries
- LED light
- 30Nm torque
Cons
- Plastic chuck key included
For around the house, this drill will handle most tasks without breaking the bank.
AVID POWER 20V Cordless Drill Set – 22 Bits
With over 23,000 reviews and a 4.6 rating, the AVID POWER set at $39.99 is a bestseller. It comes with 22 drill and driver bits, plus a battery and charger. It’s lightweight and ideal for beginners.
Pros
- Includes bits – ready to work
- Compact design
- Variable speed
Cons
- Battery capacity modest (1.5Ah)
This is a fantastic starter bundle for someone who has no tools yet.
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Drill Kit (BCD702C1)
For $44.99, you get a 20V drill with a double-sided bit, battery, and charger. The BCD702C1 is a step up from the 12V model, offering more torque and compatibility with the Black+Decker 20V ecosystem.
Pros
- 20V platform with many tools
- 4.7 rating
- Includes bit and storage bag
Cons
- No variable speed trigger (but has two-speed gearbox)
Excellent for budget-conscious homeowners who want a reliable drill for occasional use.
Ryobi Ecosystem vs. Competitors
Ryobi remains the king of value per tool in the 18V space. But if you prioritize brute power, Dewalt’s 20V Max and Craftsman’s V20 are strong rivals. For the lowest upfront cost, Black+Decker and DEKOPRO can’t be beat.
You can also explore other manufacturer ecosystems like Makita Cordless Drills and Milwaukee Cordless Drills for premium brushless lineups. And if you need a lightweight option for tight spots, Bosch Cordless Drills offer excellent ergonomics.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right cordless drill comes down to your ecosystem preference and budget. Ryobi’s One+ is perfect if you plan to expand your tool collection over time. For raw power and pro-grade durability, Dewalt is a proven winner. And for tight budgets, the Craftsman and Black+Decker options deliver surprising quality.
No matter which brand you pick, every drill on this list will help you get the job done. Click any link above to grab yours at today’s best price – and remember, a quality drill is an investment that pays for itself on the very first project.