Selecting the right drill can make the difference between a frustrating experience and a job well done. With countless options available, from cordless models to hammer drills, understanding the key features and applications will help you make an informed decision that serves your needs for years to come.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about drill selection, from basic considerations to advanced features that can enhance your productivity and precision.
Types of Drills
Understanding the different types of drills available is the first step in making the right choice. Each type is designed for specific applications and offers unique advantages.
Cordless Drills
Best for: General drilling, driving screws, portability
Key Features:
- Rechargeable battery power
- Excellent portability and manoeuvrability
- Variable speed and torque settings
- Quick-change chucks
- LED work lights
Ideal Applications:
- Furniture assembly
- General household repairs
- Outdoor projects without power access
- Light to medium-duty drilling
Corded Drills
Best for: Heavy-duty drilling, continuous use, maximum power
Key Features:
- Consistent, unlimited power supply
- Higher torque and speed capabilities
- No battery limitations or charging downtime
- Generally more affordable than cordless
- Lighter weight (no battery pack)
Ideal Applications:
- Heavy-duty construction work
- Continuous operation requirements
- Workshop-based projects
- Large-scale drilling operations
Hammer Drills
Best for: Masonry, concrete, brick drilling
Key Features:
- Hammering action for hard materials
- Switchable between drill and hammer modes
- SDS chuck systems for masonry bits
- Anti-vibration handles
- Depth stops for consistent holes
Ideal Applications:
- Anchor installation in concrete
- Drilling through brick and stone
- Construction and renovation work
- Heavy-duty masonry projects
Right-Angle Drills
Best for: Tight spaces, between joists, plumbing work
Key Features:
- 90-degree head configuration
- Compact design for confined spaces
- Slower speeds for precise control
- Often includes hole saws compatibility
- Side-mounted handles for stability
Ideal Applications:
- Plumbing installations
- Electrical work between studs
- HVAC ductwork installation
- Tight-space drilling scenarios
Key Features to Consider
When selecting a drill, several key features will impact its performance and suitability for your specific needs. Understanding these features will help you make an informed decision.
Power and Performance
Voltage (Cordless)
Torque Settings
- Low Torque (50-200 in-lbs): Delicate materials, electronics
- Medium Torque (200-400 in-lbs): General woodworking, drywall
- High Torque (400+ in-lbs): Heavy-duty applications, large fasteners
Speed Ranges
- Low Speed (0-400 RPM): Driving screws, precision work
- High Speed (400-1500+ RPM): Drilling holes, fast material removal
- Variable Speed: Optimal control for different materials
Chuck Types and Sizes
Keyless Chucks
Advantages: Quick bit changes, no tools required, convenient operation
Best for: General purpose drilling, frequent bit changes
Common sizes: 3/8", 1/2", 5/8"
Keyed Chucks
Advantages: Maximum grip strength, precision bit alignment
Best for: Heavy-duty applications, large bits, precision work
Common sizes: 1/2", 5/8", 3/4"
SDS Chucks
Advantages: Rapid bit changes, designed for hammer action
Best for: Masonry drilling, demolition work
Types: SDS-Plus, SDS-Max
Battery Considerations (Cordless)
Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion)
Advantages
- No memory effect
- Lightweight design
- Fast charging capabilities
- Long lifespan
- Consistent power output
Considerations
- Higher initial cost
- Temperature sensitive
- Gradual capacity loss over time
Capacity Ratings (Amp-Hours)
- 1.3-2.0 Ah: Lightweight, suitable for light tasks
- 2.0-4.0 Ah: Good balance of weight and runtime
- 4.0+ Ah: Extended runtime, heavier weight
Matching Drills to Applications
Different projects require different drill capabilities. Here's how to match the right drill to your specific application needs.
Home DIY Projects
Typical Tasks:
- Hanging pictures and mirrors
- Furniture assembly
- Basic repairs and maintenance
- Garden project construction
Recommended Drill Type:
12V-18V Cordless Drill
Key Features to Look For:
- Lightweight and manoeuvrable
- Variable speed control
- Multiple torque settings
- LED work light
- Keyless chuck for convenience
Professional Construction
Typical Tasks:
- Framing and structural work
- Electrical and plumbing rough-in
- Concrete and masonry drilling
- Heavy-duty fastening
Recommended Drill Type:
18V+ Cordless or Corded Hammer Drill
Key Features to Look For:
- High torque output
- Hammer action capability
- Robust construction
- Side handle for control
- Depth stop and measuring guides
Automotive Work
Typical Tasks:
- Engine bay access drilling
- Panel and trim fastener removal
- Exhaust system work
- Brake and suspension components
Recommended Drill Type:
Right-angle or Compact Cordless Drill
Key Features to Look For:
- Compact, low-profile design
- Precise torque control
- Short head length
- Quick-change capabilities
- Reversible operation
Woodworking
Typical Tasks:
- Pilot hole drilling
- Countersinking screws
- Pocket hole drilling
- Hardware installation
Recommended Drill Type:
Variable Speed Cordless with Clutch
Key Features to Look For:
- Precise speed control
- Multiple clutch settings
- Smooth operation
- Balanced weight distribution
- Dust collection compatibility
Essential Drill Bits and Accessories
Having the right bits and accessories is just as important as choosing the right drill. Different materials and applications require specific bit types for optimal results.
Twist Drill Bits
Materials and Applications:
- High-Speed Steel (HSS): General purpose, wood and soft metals
- Cobalt: Hard metals, stainless steel, heat resistance
- Carbide-Tipped: Masonry, concrete, tile
- Brad Point: Precise wood drilling, clean entry
Size Considerations:
Common sets include fractional (1/16" to 1/2"), metric (1mm to 13mm), and number/letter sizes for specific applications.
Spade and Paddle Bits
Best Applications:
- Large diameter holes in wood
- Electrical conduit routing
- Plumbing pipe access
- Quick, rough hole cutting
Size Range:
Typically available from 1/4" to 1-1/2" diameter, with some specialty sizes up to 2".
Hole Saws
Ideal for:
- Door knob and deadbolt installation
- Recessed lighting cutouts
- Ventilation and ducting holes
- Clean, large-diameter cuts
Material Options:
- Bi-metal: Wood, plastic, thin metal
- Carbide-grit: Tile, masonry, fibreglass
- Diamond-grit: Glass, ceramic, hard materials
Driver Bits
Essential Types:
- Phillips: #0, #1, #2, #3 for various screw sizes
- Flathead: Multiple widths for slotted screws
- Torx: T10-T40 for automotive and electronics
- Robertson (Square): Popular in construction
- Hex: Allen key applications
Quality Features:
- Magnetic tip holders for screw retention
- Impact-rated bits for heavy-duty use
- Quick-change hex shanks
Budget Considerations
Understanding the relationship between price, quality, and features will help you make a wise investment that matches your needs and budget.
Entry Level (£25-£75)
What You Get:
- Basic cordless functionality
- Limited torque settings
- Plastic construction
- Basic battery and charger
- Limited warranty
Best For:
Occasional DIY tasks, light assembly work, basic household repairs
Considerations:
- May lack durability for frequent use
- Limited battery life
- Fewer features and adjustments
Mid-Range (£75-£200)
What You Get:
- 18V+ voltage platforms
- Multiple torque settings
- Metal gear construction
- LED work lights
- Better ergonomics
Best For:
Regular DIY enthusiasts, semi-professional use, home renovation projects
Value Proposition:
- Good balance of features and price
- Decent build quality and reliability
- Expandable battery platform
Professional (£200+)
What You Get:
- High-quality motor and gearing
- Advanced battery technology
- Extensive torque range
- Superior ergonomics
- Comprehensive warranty
Best For:
Professional tradespeople, heavy daily use, demanding applications
Investment Benefits:
- Maximum durability and longevity
- Superior performance and efficiency
- Professional-grade features
- Excellent resale value
Making Your Final Decision
With all the information about drill types, features, and applications, here's a systematic approach to making your final selection.
Assess Your Primary Use
- What percentage of your work involves drilling vs. driving?
- What materials will you work with most often?
- How frequently will you use the drill?
- Do you need portability or is power more important?
Consider Your Work Environment
- Will you work in tight spaces or open areas?
- Is access to power outlets readily available?
- Do you need to work at height or in awkward positions?
- Are noise levels a concern?
Evaluate Feature Priorities
- Which features are essential vs. nice-to-have?
- How important is runtime vs. power?
- Do you need compatibility with existing tools?
- What level of precision control do you require?
Set Your Budget Parameters
- What's your maximum budget including accessories?
- Are you buying for immediate needs or future growth?
- Do you prefer to buy once or upgrade over time?
- Are there package deals that offer better value?
Conclusion
Choosing the right drill is an investment in your productivity and the quality of your work. By understanding the different types available, key features that matter, and how they align with your specific applications, you can make a confident decision that will serve you well for years to come.
Remember that the "best" drill is the one that matches your needs, not necessarily the most expensive or feature-rich option. Take time to evaluate your requirements honestly, and don't hesitate to seek advice from knowledgeable professionals who can provide hands-on guidance.
Expert Recommendation
For most users, an 18V cordless drill with variable speed, multiple torque settings, and a keyless chuck provides the best balance of versatility, convenience, and performance. As your needs grow, you can always add specialised tools to complement your primary drill.