A cordless drill is a battery-powered electric tool for drilling holes and driving screws in and out. It is the most widely used power tool in DIY: you use it on virtually every project, from assembling furniture to building a shed.
Functions
| Function | What it does |
| Drilling | Drilling holes in wood, plastic, metal |
| Driving screws | Driving screws in and out |
| Torque setting | Limits the torque (prevents over-driving screws) |
| Speed control | Slow for screwing, fast for drilling |
Specifications
| Parameter | Typical value |
| Voltage | 12V, 18V or 20V |
| Torque | 30-80 Nm |
| Chuck diameter | 10 or 13 mm |
| Battery type | Li-ion |
Which voltage?
| Voltage | Suited for |
| 12V | Light work: furniture, screwing, thin wood |
| 18V | All-round: construction, wood, metal |
| 20V | Heavier work: structural timber, long screws |
Cordless drill vs. hammer drill
| Cordless drill | Hammer drill |
| Drilling in wood/metal | Yes | Yes |
| Drilling in masonry/concrete | No (insufficient impact force) | Yes (hammer function) |
| Driving screws | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| Application | Wood, furniture, light work | Masonry, stone, heavier work |
For drilling into masonry or concrete, you need a hammer drill.
Tips
- Always pre-drill in hardwood — Prevents splitting
- Correct torque setting — Too high = screw head through the wood. Start low and increase.
- Two batteries — One in use, one on the charger. You never have to stop working.
Related terms
