Popular Woodworking Tests 15 Cordless Drills for Woodworkers
A comprehensive test of 15 cordless drills identifies top performers for woodworking, focusing on brushless motor performance, battery endurance, and
Popular Woodworking has tested 15 cordless drills from major manufacturers to find the best options for woodworkers. The review focuses on 18-20v brushless models, evaluating them on power, battery life, and features suited to shop work.
Testing Procedures
The test included flagship and compact 18-20v drill/drivers selected for woodworking applications. Each drill was subjected to an endurance test of drilling 100 holes in ½-inch OSB using a new 1-inch spade bit. A speed test followed, drilling holes in a fir 2x4 with the same bit in high gear. Drills that struggled were retested in low speed. The tools were also used for two weeks of everyday shop tasks, driving over 500 lag bolts and countless screws.
Hammer Drill vs. Impact Driver
The publication clarifies a common point of confusion. A hammer drill function, designed for masonry, creates a longitudinal impact along the bit's axis. An impact driver creates a rotational impact for driving screws. For woodworkers, needing a hammer drill depends on whether they occasionally work with concrete. The Bosch GSB18V-65 was noted for incorporating a hammer mode well in a compact size.
Drill/Driver Test Results
All but one drill completed the 100-hole endurance test, regardless of the battery size supplied. Compact models developed more heat during this extended test. The speed test results varied widely.
| Model | Speed Test Time (seconds) |
|---|---|
| Dewalt DCD801 | 1.31 |
| Makita XPH14 | 1.46 |
| Milwaukee (model unspecified) | 1.59 |
| Ridgid (model unspecified) | 1.59 |
Three drills rose to the top. For a single drill to handle everything including construction jobs, the Dewalt DCD801 was recommended. The Bosch GSB18V-65 was selected as the best midsize shop drill with features woodworkers want. The Milwaukee 3601, while not standing out on paper, was praised for its compact size and light weight, making it a go-to tool.
Model Spotlights
The Bosch GSR18V-400 compact drill features a brushless motor and a ½-inch chuck in a lightweight package. It weighs 2 pounds, 13 ounces including the battery, making it the lightest in the test. During the 100-hole test with a 2Ah battery, the charge indicator dropped from three bars to one. It performed more naturally in low speed for drilling larger holes. The tool has a two-speed gearbox, a basic drive mode selector, a metal chuck, and a single LED light.
The Bosch GSB18V-65 drill is described as a midsize model perfect for any shop. It features a 3-position quick selector to swap between drill, drive, or hammer modes without rotating the clutch dial. It includes kickback control, which can be turned off with a button. It has a two-source LED light, though the upper light was found to cast a shadow on the bit. The grip has a partial rubber overmold.
