Best Drill 2025: Top Cordless Picks for Every Job

Best Drill: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2953 Hammer Drill

If you're looking for a drill that can handle anything from drywall to concrete, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2953 is the one to beat. This compact hammer drill delivers pro-level power, legendary durability, and a feature set that makes it the go-to choice for contractors and serious DIYers.

Why the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2953 Wins

After testing drills from every major brand, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2953 kept impressing us with its combination of power, size, and build quality. It's not the cheapest, but it's the drill that pros trust when the job demands reliability.

The brushless motor delivers 725 in-lbs of torque—enough to drive 3-inch screws into framing lumber without breaking a sweat. The compact 7.5-inch head length makes it easy to work in tight spaces, and the all-metal chuck and gearbox mean this drill will outlast most competitors.

Key Specs

• Power: 18V brushless motor
• Torque: 725 in-lbs
• Speed: 0–550 / 0–1,900 RPM (2-speed)
• Chuck: 1/2-inch all-metal ratcheting
• Hammer Mode: Yes (for masonry drilling)
• Length: 7.5 inches (head length)
• Weight: 3.9 lbs (bare tool)
• Price: ~$179 (bare tool)

What Makes It Special

Pro-Level Power in a Compact Package
The 725 in-lbs of torque is more than enough for demanding tasks like drilling through joists, driving lag screws, or boring large holes. Yet the compact 7.5-inch head length makes it easy to maneuver in tight spots.

Legendary Milwaukee Durability
The all-metal chuck and gearbox are built to take a beating. This is a drill that will survive years of jobsite abuse and keep working.

Hammer Mode for Masonry
Need to drill into concrete or brick? The hammer drill function makes it easy. It's not a dedicated rotary hammer, but it handles occasional masonry work without issue.

REDLINK Intelligence
Milwaukee's electronics protect the battery and motor from overload, overheating, and over-discharge. It's one of those features you don't think about until it saves your battery from dying mid-job.

Runner-Up: DeWalt DCD806 Hammer Drill

If you're already invested in DeWalt's 20V MAX platform, the DCD806 is a fantastic drill. It delivers similar power (750 in-lbs torque), a compact design, and the reliability DeWalt is known for.

Why it's close: The DeWalt is powerful, well-built, and slightly more affordable than the Milwaukee. But Milwaukee's build quality and electronics give it a slight edge for long-term durability.

Best for: DeWalt tool owners who want to stay in the same battery ecosystem.

Best Budget Pick: Craftsman V20 CMCF610

Need a solid drill without spending $200? The Craftsman V20 CMCF610 is an inline screwdriver-style drill that's perfect for light-to-medium tasks. At around $79 (kit), it's a great value for homeowners who don't need pro-level power.

Trade-offs: Less torque, no hammer mode, and not as durable as Milwaukee or DeWalt. But for assembling furniture, hanging shelves, or light DIY work, it's more than capable.

Best for: Homeowners and DIYers who need a reliable drill for occasional use.

Who Should Buy What?

• Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2953 → Best for professionals and serious DIYers who need maximum power, durability, and versatility.
• DeWalt DCD806 → Best for DeWalt tool owners who want to leverage their existing battery platform.
• Craftsman V20 CMCF610 → Best for budget buyers who need a solid drill for light-to-medium tasks.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2953 is the drill we'd buy if we were building a professional tool collection. It's powerful, compact, and built to last. Whether you're framing a house, building cabinets, or just tackling weekend projects, this drill delivers the performance and reliability you need to work fast and get it right.

👉 Bottom line: For most people, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2953 is the best drill you can buy in 2025.