Tiny drills, HUGE results — which compact cordless wins in 2025?
Small drills can do BIG things. You want reach, control, and enough torque without lugging a full-size hammer-drill. Keep it light. Keep it precise.
Picture yourself overhead, elbow-deep in tight framing or installing cabinets in a cramped closet. You need a tool that fits the space and your hands. A compact drill that just works makes those jobs faster — and less annoying.
Our Top Picks
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Compact Drill
You get a true pro-grade balance of torque and ergonomics that works in tight spaces and on extended jobs. The brushless motor and pivoting LED make it a go-to for both heavy drilling and detailed fastening work.
Overview
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless compact drill is designed for pros and serious DIYers who want high performance in a smaller package. You’ll find it capable of heavy-duty drilling and fastening thanks to a high-output brushless motor that delivers strong RPM and torque while preserving battery life. The kit includes two 2Ah batteries, a charger, belt hook, and a kit bag so you can start working immediately.
Key benefits and what you’ll notice
The drill’s pivoting 3-mode LED (up to ~70 lumens) is genuinely useful when you’re working in dim corners or inside framing. The clutch is smooth and offers refined control for driving tasks, and the overall fit-and-finish hold up under jobsite conditions. If you track tools, the bit pocket accepts the Tool Connect chip for asset management.
Limitations and practical tips
You’ll appreciate the compact size, but the included 2Ah batteries are on the small side for continuous professional use — upgrade to larger capacity 20V MAX batteries if you expect all-day runtime. For heavy hole-saw work or prolonged high-load drilling, a full-size 1/2" corded drill or larger cordless model with bigger batteries will be better suited. For most remodeling, carpentry, and general contractor tasks, this model hits a great sweet spot between performance and portability.
Bosch 18V Compact Brushless Drill Driver
You get professional-level torque and a very short head length that makes overhead and tight-space work significantly easier. The brushless motor and 20 clutch settings give you fine control for varied tasks.
Overview
Bosch’s 18V compact brushless drill focuses on power-to-size ratio: a short 6.3" head length combined with up to ~400 in.-lbs. of torque (specs vary by mode) gives you pro-level capability in a tool you can manage with one hand. The kit includes two 2.0Ah batteries, a charger, belt clip, and carrying bag.
Why you might choose this Bosch
The all-metal chuck improves bit retention and reduces slippage when compared to lower-end chucks, and the build quality feels more jobsite-ready than many consumer models. Bosch also backs 18V tools with a strong warranty structure, which is a plus for trade users.
Limitations and usage notes
If you’re a casual homeowner, the included batteries may feel undersized — Bosch’s slim 2Ah packs are great for balance, but you can upgrade to higher capacity packs for longer shifts. Overall this is a compact, dependable choice if you need professional features in a tight package.
Makita 12V CXT Compact Driver-Drill Kit
You get an exceptionally small, lightweight driver-drill that excels where access and balance matter most. The slide-style 12V CXT batteries keep the tool slim and comfortable for extended overhead or one-handed use.
Overview
Makita’s 12V max CXT FD09R1 is built for precision and ergonomics. If you routinely work inside cabinets, on trim, or overhead, the compact size and light weight make it ideal. The kit typically includes two 2.0Ah batteries and a charger, and batteries can be stepped up to 4.0Ah for longer runtime.
Who should consider this drill
The slide-style batteries keep the center of gravity favorable and the on-board LED battery indicator removes guesswork. You’ll sacrifice some maximum torque compared with 18V/20V systems, but for the class of work this is intended for, performance is well tuned and the durability is in line with Makita’s reputation.
Practical notes
If your work involves lots of large fasteners or prolonged heavy drilling, a higher-voltage brushless setup will be more efficient. For detailed finish work and tasks where access matters most, though, this Makita is one of the best compact options.
Metabo HPT DS18DFX Compact High-Torque Drill
You’ll notice robust torque and a build that feels durable right away, making this a good choice for tougher drilling tasks. The two-speed gearbox and included battery make it a practical, job-ready compact option.
Overview
Metabo HPT’s DS18DFX offers a compact package with impressive torque—about 470 in-lbs—making it one of the more powerful compact drills in its class. It ships with a 2.0Ah battery, charger, and a bag, so you can jump into a range of drilling and fastening tasks straight away.
Why it performs well
Users who’ve trusted Hitachi/Metabo heritage comment on the tool’s long life and jobsite toughness. If you need a compact drill that won’t back down from heavier work—like lag screws or dense lumber—this model is a strong candidate.
Practical trade-offs
Because it uses a brushed motor, you won’t get quite the same runtime efficiency as a brushless tool; however, for raw torque and reliability in a compact package, it’s very attractive. If battery runtime is critical, consider buying a spare battery or faster charger.
Ryobi ONE+ HP Compact Brushless Drill Driver
You get a small, high-torque brushless drill that performs well for general remodeling and workshop tasks. It’s a smart pick if you already use the ONE+ battery ecosystem or want a capable, budget-friendly brushless option.
Overview
Ryobi’s ONE+ HP compact brushless drill is aimed at homeowners and DIYers who want pro-style performance without the pro price. At about 30% more compact than older brushed models and offering up to roughly 400 in.-lbs. of torque, it handles heavier fastening and drilling tasks while staying easy to control and carry.
What stands out
The tool-only option makes it an economical upgrade if you already own ONE+ batteries, and users consistently praise the comfortable grip and practical LED. It’s the sort of drill you’ll reach for when tackling framing, cabinet installs, or general carpentry around the house.
Limitations and tips
Since many listings are tool-only, plan to budget for a battery and charger if you’re new to the ONE+ ecosystem. If you expect continuous heavy-duty contractor use, consider stepping up to a larger 20V platform with bigger-capacity batteries — but for most homeowners and weekend pros, this Ryobi strikes a very useful balance.
RYOBI ONE+ 18V 1/2 in. Drill Driver
You get a powerful, affordable tool that ties into a huge battery ecosystem, making it easy to expand your cordless kit without duplicating batteries. The 515 in-lbs of torque and 24-position clutch give you good control for most home and workshop tasks.
Overview
Ryobi’s ONE+ 18V 1/2" drill/driver provides excellent torque and a long list of sensible features at a consumer-friendly price. The model is part of Ryobi’s large ONE+ ecosystem, which is a huge advantage if you already own or plan to build a library of cordless tools using the same batteries.
What you’ll like about it
This drill is well-liked by homeowners for projects such as building a coop, decking work, and general renovation tasks. It’s a practical pick if you want to keep costs down while getting capable performance.
Caveats and buying advice
Most retail listings show the drill as tool-only; plan to purchase a ONE+ battery and charger if you don’t already have them. If you need a compact daily-driver for professional work, consider uprating to a brushless 20V model with higher-capacity batteries — otherwise this Ryobi offers a strong value and wide accessory compatibility.
PORTER-CABLE 20V Brushless Compact Drill Driver
You get a durable brushless drill that offers longer runtime and reliable bit retention for most homeowner and light pro tasks. The keyless ratcheting chuck and included batteries make it a convenient kit for extended projects.
Overview
PORTER-CABLE’s 20V brushless compact drill is targeted at homeowners and pros who want dependable performance without breaking the bank. The brushless motor yields better runtime than brushed equivalents, and the kit comes with two batteries and a charger so you can work longer between charges.
Features that matter on the job
Reviewers often note the tool’s longevity — owners have used these for years across DIY and renovation projects. The included batteries are generous for the price, and compatibility with other PCC tools makes the platform convenient if you’re building a cordless set.
Limitations and user advice
If you want the lightest possible drill for tight cavities, there are smaller 12V and compact 18V options that feel less bulky. For most homeowners and many tradespeople, though, this PORTER-CABLE strikes a solid compromise between power, runtime, and price.
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Compact Drill Driver
You’ll find this drill is exceptionally affordable and approachable for household tasks and occasional projects. It’s not built for continuous professional use, but it delivers solid value for hobbyists and first-time buyers.
Overview
The BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX compact drill is a straightforward, budget-friendly tool designed for homeowners and light-duty tasks. It’s a good match if you need a dependable driver for hanging shelves, assembling furniture, or simple repairs and you value affordability and ease-of-use.
Practical strengths
For occasional users, the drill’s simplified feature set and single-speed design make it intuitive. The small 1.5Ah battery performs adequately for short jobs and has the advantage of compatibility with other 20V MAX accessories.
What to watch for
If you expect regular heavy-duty use, the smaller battery and basic motor will leave you wanting more. There are buyer reports of chuck problems and diminished life under tough, continuous conditions — if you plan to use a drill daily on the jobsite, consider stepping up to a higher-end brushless model.
Final Thoughts
Top pick: DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Compact Drill — choose this if you want a true all-around, pro-grade compact. Its brushless motor, excellent torque-to-size balance, and comfortable ergonomics mean you can drill, drive, and work long jobs without feeling weighed down. Ideal for contractors, frequent remodelers, and anyone who needs one compact tool to handle both heavy drilling and detailed fastening.
Runner-up: Bosch 18V Compact Brushless Drill Driver — pick this when access and precision are the priority. Its very short head length and 20 clutch settings make it the best option for overhead work, tight cabinets, and tasks that demand fine torque control. Great for electricians, cabinet installers, and tradespeople who work in cramped spaces.
Quick buying tip: if you split your time between heavy fastening and cramped access, go DEWALT for balanced power; if you mostly work in tight spots and need precise control, go Bosch.