The humble drill is perhaps the most essential power tool in any DIY enthusiast's arsenal. From hanging pictures to major renovation projects, a good drill can make the difference between frustration and satisfaction. But with so many options available—corded, cordless, hammer, impact, combi—how do you know which is right for your needs?
In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk through the different types of drills, their specific uses, and the key features to consider when making your choice. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade your existing tool, this article will help you drill down to the perfect option.
Understanding Different Types of Drills
Standard Drill/Driver
The standard drill/driver is the most common type found in homes across Britain. It's primarily designed for two functions:
- Drilling holes in materials like wood, plastic, and thin metal
- Driving screws into pre-drilled holes
These drills typically feature a keyless chuck that accepts a variety of drill and screwdriver bits, making them versatile for everyday tasks. They're ideal for assembling furniture, building simple wood projects, and performing basic home maintenance.
Hammer Drill
If your projects involve masonry or concrete, a hammer drill is essential. In addition to rotating like a standard drill, hammer drills add a forward hammering action that helps break through hard materials. Key features include:
- A hammering mechanism that drives the bit forward while rotating
- Higher power output for dealing with dense materials
- Often features a switch to turn the hammer function on and off
Hammer drills are perfect for mounting fixtures to brick walls, installing shelving on concrete, or any project requiring holes in masonry materials.
Combi Drill
The combination or "combi" drill offers three functions in one tool:
- Standard drilling for wood, plastic, and metal
- Hammer drilling for masonry
- Screwdriver functionality for driving screws
With selectable modes of operation, combi drills provide excellent versatility for the homeowner who works with various materials. They've become increasingly popular due to their all-in-one nature, though they may not match the performance of specialized tools for intensive work.
Impact Driver
While visually similar to standard drills, impact drivers serve a different purpose. They're specifically designed for driving screws, bolts, and fasteners with high torque. Their distinctive features include:
- A rotational hammering action that provides bursts of high torque
- Usually smaller and lighter than standard drills
- Typically use a hexagonal (hex) chuck for quick bit changes
- Much higher torque output than standard drill/drivers
Impact drivers excel at driving long screws into tough material, assembling decking, building with timber, and other tasks requiring many fasteners. They're not designed for drilling holes (although they can with the right bits), but they'll drive screws with less effort and wrist strain than a standard drill.
Rotary Hammer
For serious masonry work, a rotary hammer (sometimes called a "rotary hammer drill") provides professional-grade performance. These heavy-duty tools feature:
- A pneumatic hammering mechanism for more powerful impacts
- SDS (Special Direct System) chuck for specialized bits
- Much higher impact energy than standard hammer drills
- Often includes a chisel-only mode for breaking and demolition
Rotary hammers are primarily used for heavy-duty concrete drilling, chiseling, and demolition work. They're overkill for most homeowners but invaluable for serious renovations or construction projects.
Corded vs. Cordless: The Eternal Debate
Cordless Drills: Freedom with Limitations
Cordless drills have revolutionized the tool industry, offering unprecedented convenience. Their advantages include:
- Portability: Work anywhere without worrying about power outlets or extension cords
- Convenience: Ideal for quick jobs around the house
- Versatility: Modern batteries provide substantial power for most home tasks
But they do come with limitations:
- Battery Life: Even the best batteries eventually run down during extended use
- Power Consistency: Performance may decrease as the battery drains
- Cost: Generally more expensive than equivalent corded models
- Weight: Batteries add significant weight to the tool
Corded Drills: Reliable Workhorses
While less popular than they once were, corded drills offer distinct advantages:
- Consistent Power: Never worry about running out of battery
- Higher Power Output: Generally more powerful than cordless equivalents
- Longevity: Fewer components to fail over time
- Cost: Usually more affordable than cordless options
- Weight: Lighter than cordless models (minus the cord)
The drawbacks are primarily related to the cord itself:
- Limited Mobility: You're tethered to a power outlet
- Setup Time: Need to find outlets and manage extension cords
- Safety: Cords can be trip hazards or get in the way during work
Making the Choice
For most homeowners, a quality cordless drill offers the best balance of convenience and performance. Consider a corded model as a supplement if you:
- Regularly work on projects requiring extended drilling
- Need maximum power for tough materials
- Want a backup that's always ready to go
- Are working to a tight budget
Key Specifications and Features to Consider
Power Ratings
Power in drills is measured differently depending on whether they're corded or cordless:
- Corded Drills: Measured in watts (W) or amps (A) - typically 500W to 1200W for consumer models
- Cordless Drills: Measured by battery voltage (V) - typically 12V to 18V for home use, with 18V being the sweet spot for versatility
Higher numbers generally mean more power, but this isn't always the case due to differences in motor efficiency and design.
Torque
Torque refers to the rotational force the drill can apply, measured in Newton meters (Nm). Higher torque allows the drill to overcome resistance in dense materials or drive larger screws. For home use:
- 15-35 Nm is sufficient for light tasks and soft materials
- 35-60 Nm handles most general DIY projects
- 60+ Nm is appropriate for heavy-duty work
Many drills feature adjustable torque settings, allowing you to fine-tune the force applied—essential for avoiding damaging materials or stripping screws.
Speed Settings
Variable speed is crucial for different applications:
- Low Speeds (0-550 RPM): Better for driving screws and drilling large holes
- High Speeds (1300+ RPM): Ideal for drilling smaller holes and working with harder materials
Most quality drills offer variable speed triggers and multiple gears to give you precise control over rotation speed.
Chuck Size and Type
The chuck is the mechanism that holds the drill bit. Key considerations include:
- Size: Most home drills use 10mm or 13mm chucks. A 13mm chuck accepts larger bits for more demanding tasks.
- Type: Keyless chucks are now standard, allowing for quick bit changes without tools.
- SDS Chucks: Found on rotary hammers, these specialized chucks require SDS bits but provide superior performance for masonry.
Battery Technology (for Cordless Drills)
Battery technology has advanced significantly, with several options available:
- Lithium-Ion (Li-ion): The current standard, offering excellent power-to-weight ratio, no memory effect, and minimal self-discharge
- Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd): Older technology, heavier with memory effect issues but durable in extreme conditions
- Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH): A middle ground between the above options, less common today
Additional battery considerations include:
- Ampere-hours (Ah): Higher Ah ratings mean longer runtime
- Charge Time: How quickly the battery recharges
- Battery Platform: Consider investing in a brand with interchangeable batteries across their tool range
Ergonomics and Comfort
A drill that's uncomfortable to use will remain in the drawer. Look for:
- Weight Balance: How the drill feels in your hand
- Grip Design: Rubberized grips reduce vibration and improve control
- Size: Compact designs are easier to use in tight spaces
- Controls Placement: Forward/reverse switches and speed selectors should be easily accessible
Additional Features Worth Considering
- LED Work Lights: Illuminate your work area in dark corners
- Battery Level Indicators: Let you know how much power remains
- Brushless Motors: More efficient, longer-lasting, and often more powerful than traditional brushed motors
- Belt Hooks: Convenient for keeping the drill accessible while working on ladders or scaffolding
- Case or Bag: Provides protection during storage and transport
Which Drill for Which Project?
For Basic Household Tasks
If you primarily need a drill for hanging pictures, assembling furniture, and other light tasks, consider:
- A 12V cordless drill/driver
- Modest torque requirements (15-25 Nm)
- Compact size for easy storage
For Regular DIY Projects
For homeowners who enjoy regular DIY projects like building shelves, installing fixtures, or basic woodworking:
- An 18V cordless combi drill
- Medium torque range (30-50 Nm)
- Multiple speed settings
- Consider a kit with multiple batteries
For Renovation and Construction
If you're undertaking major renovation work or serious construction projects:
- An 18V brushless cordless combi drill with high torque (50Nm+)
- Consider adding a dedicated impact driver for driving multiple fasteners
- For extensive masonry work, a rotary hammer may be necessary
- High-capacity batteries (4Ah or higher)
For Specialized Work
- Woodworking: A drill press may be more appropriate for precision hole drilling
- Heavy Masonry: A dedicated SDS rotary hammer will save time and effort
- Automotive Work: Compact 12V drill/drivers or specialised right-angle drills fit in tight engine compartments
Caring for Your Drill
A quality drill can last for decades with proper care. Follow these maintenance tips:
- Clean Regularly: Remove dust and debris, especially from ventilation slots
- Avoid Overloading: Let the drill do the work rather than applying excessive pressure
- Use Appropriate Bits: The right bit for the material reduces strain on the drill
- Store Properly: Keep in a dry place in its case or bag
- Battery Care: Store lithium-ion batteries at around 40% charge if unused for extended periods
- Chuck Maintenance: Keep the chuck clean and occasionally apply light oil to moving parts
Our Recommendations
While we don't promote specific brands, here are general recommendations based on user needs:
Best for Beginners
Look for a 12V or 18V cordless drill/driver kit from a reputable manufacturer. These typically include:
- The drill with a keyless chuck
- One or two batteries
- A charger
- A basic set of bits
- A carrying case
Expect to pay £60-100 for a quality starter kit.
Best for Serious DIY Enthusiasts
Consider an 18V brushless cordless combi drill with:
- High torque rating (40Nm+)
- Multiple speed settings
- Metal gearbox for durability
- Two batteries (at least 2.0Ah)
- Fast charger
This type of setup typically costs £120-200 but provides versatility for various projects.
Best Value for Money
Consider a tool kit that includes both a drill/driver and an impact driver. These "twin packs" often provide better value than buying tools separately and ensure compatibility across the battery platform.
Conclusion
Choosing the right drill doesn't need to be overwhelming. By understanding the different types available and how they match your specific needs, you can make an informed decision that will serve you well for years to come.
Remember that no single drill is perfect for every job. Many serious DIYers eventually accumulate several types, each optimized for different tasks. Start with a versatile option that covers your most common needs, and expand your collection as your projects demand.
At BritTools, we're passionate about helping our customers find the perfect tools for their needs. Visit our showroom to handle different models and speak with our experts about your specific requirements. We'll help you drill down to the perfect choice for your toolbox.