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Best Cordless Drills Under $150
Best Cordless Drills Under $150
Looking for the Best Cordless Drills Under $150 (Top Picks for DIYers)?
We’ve tested and compared the top budget-friendly drills from DEWALT, Milwaukee, Makita, and Ryobi to help you find the perfect match for your next project — without overspending.
Whether you’re a first-time homeowner, weekend DIYer, or just tired of cheap tools that don’t last, these drills deliver serious performance without breaking your budget.
Spoiler: Our top pick is the DEWALT 20V MAX DCD771C2 — it’s powerful, reliable, and ideal for nearly any home project.
Let’s break down your best options.
Quick Comparison: Best Cordless Drills Under $150
| Drill | Price | Weight | Best For | Battery | Our Take |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEWALT DCD771C2 | ~$99 | 3.6 lbs | All-purpose DIY | 20V | Balanced power, top value pick |
| Milwaukee M12 | ~$129 | 2.5 lbs | Tight spaces, light installs | 12V | Compact + pro feel |
| Makita FD09R1 | ~$139 | 2.4 lbs | Comfort + long use | 12V | Super smooth control |
| Ryobi PCL206K1 | ~$79 | 3.1 lbs | Light-duty tasks, budget builds | 18V | Best for casual use |
Our Top Pick: DEWALT 20V MAX DCD771C2
Why We Love It:
This drill hits the sweet spot between power, battery life, and ease of use. It’s the kind of tool you buy once and use for years — whether you’re putting up shelves, assembling furniture, or building your first deck.
Specs at a Glance:
- 20V MAX Lithium-Ion battery
- 3.6 lbs (lightweight for its power class)
- 300 UWO motor for reliable torque
- Comes with charger and 2 batteries
Perfect For: First-time homeowners, everyday DIYers, and anyone who wants a reliable drill without overspending.
Our Top Pick
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11/04/2025 04:02 pm GMT
2. Milwaukee M12 12V Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
Best for: Compact power and tight spaces
Don’t let the 12V label fool you — this thing rips. It’s compact enough to fit in drawers, between studs, or under cabinets, but it still holds its own on bigger jobs. Milwaukee’s M12 platform is incredibly reliable and one of the most refined in the game.
- Torque: 275 in-lbs
- Chuck: 3/8″
- Weight: 2.5 lbs
- What We Love: Comfortable grip, LED light, all-day runtime
- Best Use: Cabinet installs, small framing jobs, electrical work
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11/05/2025 07:50 am GMT
3. Makita FD09R1 12V Max CXT Drill/Driver Kit
Best for: Precision and comfort during longer jobs
Makita’s 12V line doesn’t get enough love. This model is ultra-smooth, well-balanced, and delivers just the right amount of torque for everyday tasks. It’s ideal for users who value control and comfort over brute strength.
- Torque: 250 in-lbs
- Chuck: 3/8″
- Weight: 2.4 lbs
- What We Love: Slim grip, durable case, fast charging
- Best Use: Home projects, woodworking, light-duty framing
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11/05/2025 07:50 am GMT
4. Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Drill/Driver Kit (PCL206K1)
Best for: Value seekers and battery flexibility
Ryobi is the go-to for homeowners building their first tool set. This 18V drill offers solid torque, long-lasting battery life, and plays nicely with Ryobi’s huge ONE+ ecosystem — one battery fits over 260 tools.
- Torque: ~350 in-lbs
- Chuck: 1/2″
- Weight: 3.1 lbs
- What We Love: Built-in level, magnetic bit holder, LED light
- Best Use: General home improvement, furniture builds, light framing
RYOBI - ONE+ 18V Cordless 3/8 in. Drill/Driver Kit with 1.5 Ah Battery and Charger - PCL201K1
$48.99
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11/05/2025 08:01 am GMT
5. Bonus Pick: DEWALT ATOMIC 20V Max Drill/Driver (Tool Only)
Best for: Compact power if you already own DEWALT batteries
This brushless, ultra-compact drill from DEWALT’s Atomic series brings serious power in a tight frame. If you’re already in the DEWALT battery ecosystem, this is a killer upgrade or secondary drill.
- Torque: 340 UWO (brushless motor)
- Chuck: 1/2″
- Weight: 2.4 lbs
- What We Love: Compact profile, excellent LED light, rugged build
- Best Use: Tight spaces, overhead drilling, extended use
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/05/2025 08:33 am GMT
Looking for your next weekend win? This list of DIY Projects for a Drill or Impact Driver is full of simple ideas that pay off.
How to Choose the Right Drill
Choosing a drill isn’t just about price — it’s about matching your needs with the right power, weight, and features. If you’re looking for the Best Cordless Drills Under $150 (top picks for DIYers), this breakdown will help you understand what matters most, and what to skip.
- 12V vs 18V/20V:
- 12V = lighter, great for small tasks
- 18V/20V = more power for bigger jobs
- Brushed vs Brushless Motors:
- Brushless motors run cooler, last longer, and offer more torque (worth the upgrade)
- Battery Ecosystem:
- Pick a brand with compatible tools — batteries are the long-term investment
- Comfort & Weight:
- A lighter drill reduces fatigue and makes awkward angles easier
Here’s a post that’s been helping a lot of DIYers: a breakdown of drill vs impact driver you’ll actually use.
Frequently Asked Questions About Budget Cordless Drills
What is the best cordless drill under $150?
The DEWALT 20V MAX DCD771C2 is our top pick. It’s powerful, reliable, and works great for first-time homeowners and DIYers alike.
Can I get a good drill under $100?
Yes — the Ryobi PCL206K1 usually runs under $80 and is a solid choice for basic DIY projects and household repairs.
Should I get a 12V or 20V drill?
If you’re doing heavy drilling or building projects, 20V offers more torque. For lighter use and compact jobs, 12V models are lighter and easier to handle.
What’s the difference between brushed and brushless drills?
Brushless motors are more efficient, run cooler, and last longer — but they cost more. Brushed drills are more affordable and still great for casual DIY use.
Not sure which tool brand to go with? This real-world breakdown helps make the call.
Ready to upgrade your drill game?
Start with the one we trust most:
👉 DEWALT 20V MAX on Amazon
Ready to Build with Confidence?
These drills are just the beginning.
Check out our Tools We Recommend page for the gear we’d buy again — from cordless combos to everyday essentials.
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