Which tool earns the most pay-per-hole? Your short guide to the drills and drivers that actually make money.
Two tools do most of the heavy lifting. If you do installs, remodels, or weekend flips, a good drill and impact driver will save you hours and make your work cleaner.
You want reliability, speed, and low downtime. Think: a combo for maximum versatility, a compact driver for nimble jobs, and an SDS hammer when concrete fights back.
Top Picks
20V MAX Drill and Impact Combo Kit
You get two purpose-built tools that complement each other for fast, efficient work: a drill for precise holes and an impact driver for heavy fastening. The compact design and included batteries make this a go-to starter kit for many users.
Why this combo matters
You want a compact, flexible combo that covers most fastening and drilling needs without filling your van. This kit pairs a 1/2" drill/driver with a 1/4" impact driver so you can switch between precision drilling and high-torque fastening without buying separate systems.
Features and benefits
Together these features let you work through projects without waiting for a single battery to recharge. Many users report that the combo is a great value and that the tools are comfortable for long sessions.
Limitations and practical tips
How you’ll use it
From building a shed to hanging drywall and assembling furniture, this set covers the common tasks efficiently. One user called it a "game-changer" for deck work because the batteries charge quickly and the tools remain balanced in the hand. If you want a single purchase that unlocks most drilling and driving work, this is a top recommendation.
20V MAX Compact Drill Driver Kit
You get a dependable, well-balanced drill that handles most household and light-construction tasks with ease. The kit includes two batteries and a charger, so downtime is minimal and portability is excellent.
Purpose and who it's for
You want a reliable, all-purpose cordless drill that won't weigh you down or break the bank. This kit is designed for homeowners, DIYers, and pros who need a compact driver for framing, shelving, and on-site fixes where reach and portability matter.
Key features and real-world benefits
This combination means less waiting for charge cycles and fewer interruptions while you work. Users frequently note how comfortable it is for extended use and how having a spare battery keeps momentum on jobs.
Practical limitations and buying tips
Usage example and recommendation
If you build a deck, hang cabinets, or do routine home maintenance, this kit gives you the mobility and power to finish most tasks. One satisfied DIYer said: "Great power and looks sturdy and durable — the two batteries are perfect for most jobs." For your toolbox, it’s a practical balance of cost, portability, and performance.
20V MAX SDS Plus Rotary Hammer
You get a compact, brushless rotary hammer engineered for drilling into concrete in confined spaces. It's lightweight enough to carry while delivering effective impact energy for anchors and light chiseling.
Purpose and performance
When you need to drill into concrete, masonry, or block in restricted areas, this rotary hammer is aimed at those tasks. The compact SDS Plus design delivers targeted impact energy while you maintain maneuverability in crowded jobsite conditions.
Key features and jobsite benefits
In practice, you’ll find it drills through concrete more quickly than a standard hammer drill while being much less cumbersome than a full-size demolition hammer. Users praise its ability to drive SDS bits "like butter" through masonry while remaining manageable.
Limitations and practical advice
Suggested uses
Use this for mounting anchors, installing electrical boxes in block walls, and other light-to-medium masonry work. If you do occasional concrete work and value portability, this is a strong choice — just plan battery provisioning accordingly.
1.5" Right Angle Attachment for Impact Driver
You gain access to cramped spaces where a full-size driver can’t fit, with reliable magnetic bit retention and a robust metal-gear case. It’s a simple add-on that often saves hours on installations.
Why add a right-angle adapter
When you’re faced with fastening inside cabinets, behind piping, or deep in vehicle wells, a right-angle adapter turns an impact driver into a compact precision tool. It’s a small investment that expands what you can access with your existing driver.
Design highlights and field performance
Many users call it a "lifesaver" for automotive and cabinetry work — one reviewer said, "This thing saved my bacon!!" because it allowed fastening without removing other components.
Practical notes and compatibility
Recommendation
If you do any tight-space fastening or service work, this is one of the first accessories you’ll be grateful to have on the jobsite or in your car kit.
V20 Cordless Drill and Impact Combo Kit
You get two dependable tools that are well-suited for household projects and occasional contractor use. The V20 batteries are a solid middle ground between price and runtime for most DIY tasks.
Who should consider this kit
If you’re a homeowner or hobbyist who wants a straightforward pair of tools without premium contractor pricing, this combo is aimed at you. It balances capability, battery runtime, and cost for the occasional to frequent DIYer.
Standout features and how they help
These features mean you can show up to a project with the tools to drill, drive, and finish many jobs without extra purchases. Reviewers commonly praise the battery life and the value when the set is on sale.
Practical limitations and field notes
Final usage advice
For assembling furniture, installing fixtures, and weekend builds, this combo gives you the essentials. One user noted: "Battery life is good, they are not too heavy either," which captures the kit’s balance of comfort and capability.
20pc Hole Saw Set with Mandrels
You get a broad selection of sizes that cover most home improvement hole-cutting tasks. The blades cut well in soft wood and drywall, but the kit is not intended for heavy daily contractor use.
Who this kit fits
If you occasionally need to cut holes for vents, recessed lights, plumbing, or wiring, this affordable kit gives you lots of options without buying individual cutters. It’s aimed squarely at homeowners, hobbyists, and light tradespeople.
Kit contents and benefits
The result is a low-cost way to tackle odd jobs around the house. Reviewers commonly note the blades are sharp and work well in drywall and dimensional lumber.
Limits and practical suggestions
Usage tip
When cutting larger diameters, use backer support and keep speeds moderate to avoid tearing. For your weekend projects and occasional renovations, this kit is a cost-effective starting point.
1/4" Magnetic Bit Holder 5-Pack
You get a low-cost set of magnetic bit holders that simplify one-handed screw pickup and retention. They’re useful for light to moderate tasks but aren’t guaranteed as heavy-duty as premium holders.
What this set does
You want an inexpensive way to keep screwdriver bits secure and to pick up screws while working one-handed or on ladders. These magnetic bit holders are a simple, space-saving accessory that fits standard 1/4" hex chucks.
Features and everyday benefits
These features make them ideal for light construction, cabinetry, and finish work where dropping screws is an annoyance. One user reported being "surprised at the high quality and toughness" which highlights good value for occasional use.
Caveats and tips
Bottom line
For general home and light trade use you’ll find these convenient and inexpensive. Keep a set in your main toolbox and another in a vehicle kit for quick fixes and one-handed installations.
20V Cordless Drill with 25+3 Torque
You can get decent performance for light drilling and screwdriving at a very low price. Build quality and reliability are hit-or-miss, so it’s best for occasional use or as a backup rather than primary shop tool.
Who should consider this drill
You want a low-cost cordless drill for occasional household jobs like assembling furniture, hanging a shelf, or minor repairs. For light-duty tasks it offers a surprising set of features for the price, but don’t expect professional-grade longevity.
Key specs and practical advantages
These elements make it a reasonable start-up drill or a backup tool in the garage. Several buyers were pleased with ergonomics and value — one reviewer simply said "Solid drill, great value." However, others received defective units and reported trigger failures.
Drawbacks and buying guidance
Practical tip
If you buy this as a budget option, test it immediately and keep the receipt — early returns are sometimes necessary. For light household projects, you’ll likely find it competent and economical; for heavy or frequent use, plan to upgrade down the line.
Final Thoughts
Pick the 20V MAX Drill and Impact Combo Kit as your primary workhorse. Rating: 9.3/10 — you get two purpose-built tools (a drill for clean holes and an impact driver for heavy fastening), compact designs, and batteries included. Strengths: cuts tool swapping, speeds installation work, and handles framing, decking, cabinet preps, and most contractor tasks. Buy this if you need one kit to cover the majority of on-site jobs.
If you prioritize portability and long runtime for everyday DIY and trim work, choose the 20V MAX Compact Drill Driver Kit. Rating: 9.0/10 — it’s well-balanced, dependable, and comes with two batteries and a charger. Strengths: excellent for hanging shelves, furniture assembly, finish carpentry, and light construction where maneuverability and minimal downtime matter. Opt for this when you want a nimble, go-anywhere drill that won’t slow you down.
The KATA Hole Saw Set looks like it could be my next impulse buy. I do a lot of shelf and door hardware work — anyone used these for PVC and drywall mostly? Any horrors or praise? 😅
Thanks — think I’ll get it. Cheap enough to test and replace if needed.
I used a similar set for installing recessed lights — they worked great for drywall and plywood. Don’t expect them to last forever on tougher materials.
KATA is fine for occasional homeowner use; cuts well in soft wood and drywall. Not ideal for heavy daily contractor use.
Battery interoperability question: Are Dewalt 20V (MAX) batteries cross-compatible across the kits mentioned? And obviously Craftsman has its own platform, right?
Dewalt 20V MAX batteries are compatible across Dewalt 20V tools. Craftsman V20 uses its own battery platform (V20) and those are not interchangeable with Dewalt without an adapter.
Thanks — guess I’ll standardize on Dewalt if I keep expanding my kit.
Yep — stick to one system or be prepared to manage multiple chargers and batteries. Adapters exist but are a hassle.
I bought the DEWALT SDS Plus rotary hammer (DCH172B) because my garage floor needed anchors and a few holes for conduit.
Pros:
– Compact and light for a hammer drill
– Gets through concrete without feeling like my arms will fall off
Cons:
– Battery version isn’t as relentless as corded SDS tools for continuous heavy work
– Bit selection matters — use good bits
Overall pretty happy for tight concrete work. Would buy again.
Thanks all — adding Bosch and Dewalt branded bits as common recommendations in the comments.
Great breakdown, Laura. Good tip about bits — any brand you prefer for masonry bits?
I use Bosch SDS bits for most stuff. A bit pricier but lasts way longer than cheaper bits.
Totally agree — corded SDS is for heavy contractor days, but the DCH172B is perfect for one-off home jobs where you can’t drag a cord.
That right-angle attachment (DWARA120) looks super handy. Has anyone used it with an impact driver for tight closet installs? Curious about how much torque it holds up to without slipping.
Used it to install cabinet hinges in a small pantry — saved me hours. No issues with slipping, but don’t try to force it for structural lag screws.
It’s built for impact drivers and the metal gears plus magnetic bit retention do a solid job — for most fastening work it won’t slip. For very high-torque lag bolts you might feel limits.
Long post: I work on HVAC installs and that right-angle adapter was a recommendation from a coworker. Saved so much time working inside narrow duct spaces and around studs. If you do any recessed or boxed-in installs, it’s one of those small purchases that pays off.
Also: magnetic retention helps a ton when you’re above your head and don’t want to fumble bits — seriously, buy it.
Appreciate the field insight, Natalie. Sounds like a must-have for tradespeople working in confined spaces.
Good to know — I do some HVAC work too and was on the fence. Ordering one now!
Has anyone tried using the DCH172B for light chiseling or removing tile adhesive? Wondering if it’s enough or just for drilling anchors.
I used it to remove a strip of tile adhesive in a small patch — did fine as long as you don’t try to remove a whole floor with it.
It can handle light chiseling and small demolitions but don’t expect it to replace a full-size demolition hammer. It’s best for anchors, light chiseling, and confined-space work.
Picked up the DEWALT 20V MAX combo (DCK240C2) last month and it’s been a workhorse. Batteries last through a day of trim work and the impact driver saves so much time on decking screws. Highly recommend for anyone getting into DIY or light contractor jobs.
Agree with Sarah. Also the compact form factor makes it great for working on ladders.
Thanks for the firsthand review, Sarah — glad it’s holding up. Did you notice any warming on longer runs?
I have the same kit. Only thing I’d add is pick up an extra battery if you’re doing big projects — saves downtime.
How strong are those TEKPREM magnetic bit holders? I hate dropping screws in tight spaces and one-handed pickup would be a life-saver. Are they decent or flimsy?
They’re handy and low-cost — good for light to moderate tasks. Don’t expect industrial-strength retention like premium holders, but they’ll keep screws on in most orientations.