The classic first drill
1. DEWALT 20V MAX Compact Drill/Driver Kit DCD771C2
- Battery platform: DEWALT 20V MAX
- Power: 300 UWO (maker's figure)
- Speed and chuck: 2 speeds: 0-450 and 1,500 rpm; 1/2 in chuck
- Weight: Not stated on the page we read
- In the box: Drill, two 20V MAX batteries, charger, bag
From the maker: “Featuring a high-performance motor and a 2-speed transmission, this drill delivers up to 300 UWO for a wide range of applications. For convenience this kit includes (2) 20V MAX* batteries, a charger, and a durable storage bag for portability.” (DEWALT product page, read Nov 4, 2026)
Who it's for: A first real drill for a new homeowner: two batteries means one can charge while he works.
Skip it if: He already owns a cordless drill, or he's on another battery brand.
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Compact 12V, two batteries
2. Bosch 12V Max Brushless 3/8 in Drill/Driver Kit GSR12V-300B22
- Battery platform: Bosch 12V Max
- Power: 300 in.-lbs.; brushless; 20+1 clutch settings
- Speed and chuck: 2 speeds: 0-460 / 0-1,750 rpm; 3/8 in keyless chuck
- Weight: 1.6 lbs tool only (maker's figure, no battery)
- In the box: Drill, two 2.0Ah batteries, charger, bit holder, 4 bits, belt clip, bag
From the maker: “The Bosch GSR12V-300 features an efficient EC Brushless motor that delivers 300 In.-Lbs. of torque, along with a max speed of 1,750 rpm. With a head length of 6.0 In. and a weight of 1.6 Lbs. (tool only, not including battery)” (Bosch product page, read Nov 6, 2026)
Who it's for: Someone who wants a small, light drill for cabinets, furniture and around-the-house jobs, with a spare battery.
Skip it if: He's already on a 20V or 18V platform from another brand: Bosch 12V batteries won't fit those tools.
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Pro brand, pocket size
3. Milwaukee M12 Subcompact Brushless 3/8 in Drill/Driver Kit 3401-22
- Battery platform: Milwaukee M12
- Power: 350 in-lbs.; brushless; 12 clutch settings
- Speed and chuck: 2 speeds: 0-450 / 0-1,550 rpm; 3/8 in all-metal chuck
- Weight: Under 2 lbs with battery; 5.4 in long
- In the box: Drill, two M12 REDLITHIUM CP 2.0 batteries, charger, contractor bag
From the maker: “The compact drill is only 5.4" in length and under 2 pounds with a battery, allowing for minimal fatigue and excellent control, especially while working overhead or in tight spaces. The brushless motor delivers optimal tool performance at 350 in-lbs. of torque and up to 1,550 RPM” (Milwaukee product page, read Nov 6, 2026)
Who it's for: The handy guy who wants a pro-brand drill that fits in a drawer, or anyone starting on the large M12 tool family.
Skip it if: You'd rather buy from the brand or the store itself: when we checked, this listing was sold by a third-party seller. Also skip it if he's on another battery brand.
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Brushless, more torque
4. Makita 18V LXT Brushless 1/2 in Driver-Drill Kit XFD131
- Battery platform: Makita 18V LXT
- Power: 440 in.lbs. max torque; brushless motor
- Speed and chuck: 2 speeds: 0-500 and 0-1,900 rpm; 1/2 in chuck
- Weight: 3.8 lbs with battery (spec table)
- In the box: Drill, one 3.0Ah battery, charger, tool bag
From the maker: “POWER : Makita-built brushless motor delivers 440 in.lbs. of Max Torque” (Makita product page, read Nov 6, 2026)
Who it's for: Someone who'll drill into studs and drive bigger screws: the most torque the maker lists of the drill-only kits here.
Skip it if: He wants two batteries in the box (this kit has one), or he's already on another battery brand.
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Drill and impact driver
5. DEWALT 20V MAX Drill + Impact Driver Combo Kit DCK240C2
- Battery platform: DEWALT 20V MAX
- Power: Drill: 300 UWO; impact torque not stated on the page we read
- Speed and chuck: Drill: 0-450 / 0-1,500 rpm; 1/2 in chuck. Impact: 1/4 in hex
- Weight: Impact driver 2.8 lbs
- In the box: DCD771 drill, DCF885 impact driver, two 1.3Ah batteries, charger, bag
From the maker: “Designed lightweight for a wide range of applications, this kit features the compact 20V MAX* 1/2-in Drill/Driver and the 20V MAX* 1/4-in Impact Driver. This kit also includes (2) 20V MAX* 1.3Ah batteries, a charger, and a durable storage bag” (DEWALT product page, read Nov 6, 2026)
Who it's for: Someone who builds decks, fences or furniture: the impact driver sinks long screws while the drill does the holes.
Skip it if: He only hangs pictures and assembles furniture: a single drill is enough. The 1.3Ah batteries are small, so expect more charging on big jobs.
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Budget pick for light jobs
6. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Drill/Driver Kit BDCDD120C
- Battery platform: BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX
- Power: Brushed motor; torque not stated on the page; 11-position clutch
- Speed and chuck: Up to 650 rpm; 3/8 in keyless chuck
- Weight: 2.5 lbs (feature text; spec table lists 3.2 lb)
- In the box: Drill, one 1.5Ah battery, charger, double-ended bit
From the maker: “The compact design, 35% smaller than the GC1801 Drill/Driver, allows you to fit in tighter spaces (behind appliances, inside cabinets, inside closets, etc.). Lightweight at 2.5 lbs provides less fatigue and makes it easy to move from room to room.” (BLACK+DECKER product page, read Nov 6, 2026)
Who it's for: A first drill for a dorm, apartment or light household jobs: furniture, curtain rods, picture hooks.
Skip it if: He'll drill into studs, masonry or decks: the single-speed 650 rpm motor is for light work. Step up to one of the kits below.
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