5 Best Corded Drills | Reviews and Buyers Guide
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The good old corded drill seems a bit old-fashioned now, thanks mainly to the invention of the latest battery technology, which means those Lithium Ion drills are just as powerful as a corded electric drill. But power isn’t everything, and there are considerable advantages to buying a corded power drill.
For example, they are a more lightweight drill, and this makes them much easier to use. They are also less expensive, have high torque, and as long as you have a power source, they won’t run out of juice.
This article reviewed 5 of the best-corded drills, written a detailed piece on each, and laid them out side-by-side in an easy-to-follow comparison table. At the bottom of the article, you will find our buyers guide, packed full of helpful information to help you decide which model to buy.
Comparison of The :
CLICK any image to see Ratings & Reviews on Amazon
| Image | Title | Buy | Walts Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
Top | DEWALT Corded Drill (DWD115K ) | Buy Now | 4.9 / 5 (Best Overall) |
 | BLACK+DECKER Corded Drill (DR260C) | Buy Now | 4.8 / 5 (Best Value) |
 | Ryobi D43K Variable Speed Trigger Corded Power Drill | Buy Now | 4.6 / 5 |
 | SKIL 6335-02 Corded Drill | Buy Now | 4.5 / 5 |
 | PORTER-CABLE Corded Drill (PC600D) | Buy Now | 4.5 / 5 |
Further reading: 7 Best Hammer Drills – Reviews and Buyers Guide
Best Corded Drills | Top 5 Reviews
1. DEWALT Corded Drill DWD115K (Best Overall)
- You know what to expect at the mention of DEWALT. This is a reputable company that is responsible for thousands of reliable workshop and power drill application tools worldwide. This corded drill is no exception.
- This fantastic tool is fitted with a powerful 8A motor to deliver high performance in heavy-duty applications. You can use it to drill through different surfaces without worrying about spoiling your bits.
- For increased bit retention, this amazing model has a 3/8-inch all-metal ratcheting keyless chuck. I am sure that you understand the importance of this drill chuck feature from our subsequent discussions. We should also mention that this product is highly versatile, thanks to the 0-2, 500RPM variable speed trigger that gives you much greater rotation speed control than a standard drill. You can thus effectively use this tool for all your drilling and fastening applications.
- Balance and comfort are essential features that you should look out for in any tool. This impressive drill machine has a mid handle grip design with a soft grip that takes care of these two features. The construction is also excellent, making it perfectly suited for its purpose.
- You get to enjoy an all-bearing construction that offers you durability and longer usage time. This DeWALT drill weighs only 6.53 pounds, making it highly portable. It has a patented DEWALT motor that comes with overload protection to prevent accidents and increase the motor’s life.
2. BLACK+DECKER Corded Drill (DR260C) (Best Value)
- Our second recommendation is this fantastic product from BLACK+DECKER. This 5.2 A corded drill comes at a relatively lower price than most models, making it a fantastic option, especially if you are into serious DIYing.
- Do not let the low-price tag mislead you into believing that it will not deliver. This product has a powerful motor that offers it the driving force to make holes through different surfaces. It is also compact and occupies the least space possible.
- With this, you can work on challenging tasks without worrying about maneuverability. It is designed in such a way that you allow you to work in tight spaces efficiently and faster. It operates from 0-1500 RPM and has no-load speed.
- Features include a keyless chuck for quick and easy bit changes and variable speeds for controlled drilling, and variable speed control to a max of 1,500 RPM. Users also get onboard bit storage, which allows quick access to screwdriver bits. You can use this fantastic product on surfaces such as wood, plastic, and metals.
- Driving screws into different surfaces? This is also the best option. It weighs only 3.25 pounds, making it a highly portable choice. Keep in mind that it also has a black/orange coloration, which makes it aesthetically pleasing. Lastly, this product has a 2-year limited warranty and should serve you without any defects.
Further Reading: Best Right Angle Drills – Top 6 Reviews and Buyers Guide
3.Ryobi D43K
- The Ryobi D43K Corded Power Drill is perfect for those jobs where versatility and speed are essential. With a rubberized grip on the pistol handle, this drill will slide effortlessly into your hand when youre operating in slippery conditions.
- You can also adjust the speed of each job to suit it with one simple pull of the trigger. Whether you need high-speed drilling or fastening small parts down, decide what you need to do before hitting that switch!
- This Ryobi drill has a 3/8 keyless chuck, which lets you make fast bit changes without any additional tools. The tool has a switch on the side that allows continuous drilling to help prevent fatigue and give you more stability for different holding options.
- This dependable machine blends power and precision, giving you fingertip control over drilling or screwing near your workshop outlet.
- The Ryobi DC43K is a reliable tool thats heavy-duty enough for any job in the workshop. With up to 1,600 RPM, you can use this drill on light fastener driving jobs as well as deep hole boring with ease -- all at 5.5 amps of the electrical draw. The variable speed trigger gives you complete control of its impressive speeds with just one hand.
Further reading: Hammer Drill vs Impact Driver. Is There 1 Colossal or Decisive Difference?
4. SKIL 6335-02
- Our fourth product is this fantastic 7.0A corded drill from Skil. It has a powerful motor that makes it suitable for massive projects. Therefore, if you are a severe DIYer who would like to bore holes on different surfaces, we highly advise you to settle on this drill driver.
- This power tool weighs only 5 pounds, making it highly portable. Its size and weight also mean that you can use it in tight spaces since you will not struggle with maneuverability. It is also worth noting that it has several positive reviews and feedback from consumers.
- With this, you will drill through metal and wood surfaces at ease. You can also use it to drill holes in concrete surfaces, which makes it highly advantageous. Thanks to the half-inch chuck, you can use more significant bits for your projects.
- Lets talk about the overall design. This product has an ergonomic build, making it a perfect drill. It comes with a side-assist handle that offers maximum support, allowing you to hold onto the machine.
- The variable speed option is also a helpful feature. The variable speed trigger allows you maximum control of your tool. You can easily adjust the speed of the drill, depending on your needs and specifications.
- This drill was also designed with the users safety in mind. It has a 2-finger trigger with a lock-on that provides added protection and maximum control.
5. PORTER-CABLE Corded Drill PC600D
- Our final product is a 6-Amp corded drill from PORTER-CABLE. It is a highly rated speed drill that has attracted several positive reviews and feedback from users. It is made for high-performance job sites, thanks to its high reliability and power.
- This drill has a high-torque gear design, which makes it ideal for metal and wood fabrication, deck building construction, and different applications requiring a relatively longer run-time.
- Keep in mind that this product is lightweight, which is a great advantage. It is highly portable and can be used in the tightest of spaces. Other professional features include a variable-speed trigger, application-specific speed control, a keyless chuck, and a lock-on button, preventing fatigue.
- Also, users get a 3-years limited warranty that covers defects caused by materials or artistry. The company also offers a full-year service contract, which can be easily obtained when purchasing the product.
- This product comes with operating instructions, which are highly welcome. For more safety, the drill is fitted with a belt clip that holds it securely while working. Combined with the lock-on feature, this is the perfect drill for your wood and metalworking projects.
- The overall build is pretty unique. Most corded drills at its price range are made of plastic, which is not highly enticing. However, this product has a solid metal construction, which offers you the level of durability you need and the perfect body for its nature of work.
Video: How to Use an Electric Drill
Corded Drill Buying guide
We have looked at some of the best-corded drills that you can obtain in the market. Keep in mind that these products differ in features, and therefore, you need to know what you specifically need. However, if you are making your purchase or not conversant with corded drills, this buying guide is for you.
Here are a few things that you should look out for when shopping:
Warranty
The warranty says a lot about a product. No manufacturer whatsoever is willing to offer a longer warranty duration for a faulty product. Therefore, when buying a corded drill, ensure that it comes with a more extended warranty period.
Take some time and ascertain whether the warranty is limited or not. A few manufacturers offer warranties on only specific parts of their models, which may put you at a loss. If possible, get yourself a tool that has a comprehensive warranty.
We would highly advise you to settle on a corded drill with a warranty period of more than three years. Close to the warranty is a money-back guarantee. This is quite simple. They will refund you your money after a given time if the product does not impress you.
The money-back guarantee period differs from company to company. While others only offer 30 days, some go for as long as 90 days. If you are a first-time buyer, a money-back guarantee option is highly advisable.
Portability
You need a product that you can easily carry from place to place. Portability is dependent on factors such as weight and size. Luckily, most of the drills we have reviewed weigh less than fifteen pounds, which is highly commendable.
If you need a portable tool, ensure that it is light enough and compact. A compact drill also means easy access to tight spaces, which should be your number one motivation. You don’t want to be disappointed because you cannot drill a hole on a particular surface.
Motor power
The motor is like the drill engine. It dictates the performance and general usage of the tool. A corded drill, just like any other electrical power tool, has given motor powers, which differ from producer to producer.
The motor power is usually indicated in Amperes. To be on the safe side, make sure that you settle on one with a higher value. For example, a 10A motor has more power than a 5A motor and vice versa. Anything above 5A is welcome and can serve you well in your projects.
Speed
The motor speed should be at the top of your considerations when shopping for a corded drill. This is usually measured in RPM and dictates how fast or slow you will work on a given project. A faster spinning drill will always drill quicker and easier than a slower one.
Therefore, to be on the safer side, go for drills with a higher RPM. Remember, different projects require different drill speeds, and consequently, we encourage you to settle on a product with variable speeds. Most drills come with a variable speed trigger to help you get the right speed that matches your desired results.
Chuck size
The chuck size is not usually given the attention it deserves when out shopping for a corded drill. Most people are generally focused on other considerations such as the warranty and forget about this important feature.
Keep in mind that the chuck size will dictate the drill bit sizes that are supported. The chuck size is usually denoted in inches and should not, therefore, be hard to recognize. Some of the standard sizes are 3/8 and ½. If you need an option that will work with different drill bit sizes, we highly encourage you to settle on the ½ choice. It is usually more potent as compared to other variations.
Reverse function
Certain features will determine whether your drilling will be successful or not. One of these is the reverse function. This is one of the most critical functions in any drill. The reverse function allows you to spin the drill bit in the opposite direction.
It comes in handy, especially if you would like to dislodge your drill from a particular surface. Your drill bit may get stuck on a given surface while creating a hole. The reverse function will help you remove the drill without damaging the bit.
Durability
Durability is an essential factor that you must consider in any tool. Most of these drills come with a hefty price tag, and therefore, you need to ensure that what you settle on serves you for an extended period.
Any power tool will serve you for a long time without any issues when it is durable. Therefore, when making a purchase, ensure that you get a corded drill with high-quality metal casings or strong plastic and not just any other ordinary material.
The warranty duration is also a good starting point when checking for durability. Corded drills that come with an extended warranty period are usually more durable than those with a shorter warranty period. In conclusion, durability is highly dependent on construction. Ensure that you settle on a product with a solid build if you need a longer usage duration.
Budget
Your budget matters. There are thousands of corded drills that you can get. However, keep in mind that these units retail at different prices. The money you are willing to spend will dictate the drill that you will get. If you need a high-quality product, you will have to expand your budget. If you need a corded drill for professional purposes, you should be ready to spend more since you will need a sophisticated drill.
If you are a DIYer who doesn’t engage in relatively more challenging projects, you can settle on the average drill. Luckily, you can get one for as low as $40. As a rule of thumb, always keep in mind that durable products cost more, meaning that you should adjust your budget if you need a drill that falls in this category.
The length of the cord
Corded drills must be connected to a power source during usage. Therefore, you need to be wary of the length of the cord since it will dictate the freedom of use. We would highly advise you to settle on a drill with a longer cord that will offer you added mobility. With a longer cord, you can plug your drill into a power source and then use it to work on tight or elevated spaces efficiently.
Conclusion
So, having scoured the marketplace for the best-corded drills (of which there are 1000’s!!), we have narrowed it down to these 5. We highly recommend the DEWALT Corded Drill DWD115K as it has a ton of features, is super durable, is built for the job, and has a great warranty. It is one of the more expensive though.
If your budget can’t quite stretch that far, you can’t go too far wrong with our Best Value pick, the BLACK+DECKER Corded Drill (DR260C), which comes in at around half the price of the DEWALT.
We hope you have found our article helpful, and it’s helped you in your search for a corded drill? Perhaps you have weighed up whether to buy a cordless drill, and you couldn’t decide? We spent a lot of hours reviewing the options, and we hope we have helped you in some small way.
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CLICK any image to see Ratings & Reviews on Amazon
| Image | Buy | Walts Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
Top
Top | BOSCH 11255VSR | Check Price | 4.9 / 5 |
Top | TACKLIFE Hammer Drill | Check Price | 4.6 / 5 |
Top | DEWALT DCH133B | Check Price | 4.8 / 5 |
Top | BLACK + DECKER | Check Price | 4.4 / 5 |
Top | Meterk Hammer Drill | Check Price | 4.3 / 5 |
Top | SKIL 6445-04 | Check Price | 4.2 / 5 |
Top | GALAX PRO Hammer Drill | Check Price | 4.1 / 5 |
Walts DIY is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
When I’m not testing and reviewing tools, you’ll find me in front of a hot BBQ, cold drink in hand, cooking up something big, and spending quality time with my wife and two boys. I’m also often found in my workshop working on my next project!
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