Finding a reliable cordless drill without spending a fortune can be tough. But you do not need to break the bank for a capable tool. We tested and researched to find the best cordless drills under $50. These budget-friendly picks are perfect for home DIY, furniture assembly, and everyday repairs. This listicle reviews eight top performers that deliver great power and value.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 8 Cordless Drill Under $50 Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. 20V Cordless Drill Set with 2.0Ah Battery, 30Nm Torque, 21+1 Clutch, 2 Speeds, and LED Light
This 20V cordless drill is our top pick for its complete package and robust power. It comes with two batteries, ensuring you can swap and keep working without long downtime. The 30Nm torque handles demanding tasks, making it a versatile workhorse for any DIYer.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Two 2.0Ah batteries for all-day power.
- ✓ 21+1 position clutch for precise control to avoid damage.
- ✓ Two-speed gearbox for flexibility in drilling and driving.
- ✓ Built-in LED work light.
- ✓ Includes a US charger and a full set of accessories.
Why We Recommend It
It simply delivers more for the price. Having two batteries is a huge plus. The power is real—it can handle tough jobs like drilling into hardened steel. This set removes the need to buy extra bits, making it ready to use right away.
Best For
This is the best cordless drill for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts who need reliable power for a mix of projects, from simple assemblies to more challenging repairs.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value with two high-capacity batteries.
- High torque output for a sub-$50 drill.
- Excellent accessory kit included.
- Comfortable grip and good balance.
Cons:
- Can get warm during extended heavy use.
- Charger is not the fastest on the market.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great and affordable. For house hold stuff. I did run the drill hard the other night fixing a bed frame. Had to drill 4 new holes in the harden steel frame. Took about 30mins of hard drilling. Putting all me weight on it to drill into this hard steel. Worked great.”
Customer Review: “Bought for my husband and he has used it many times already. Great product.”
2. AVID POWER 12V Cordless Drill with 3/8-Inch Keyless Chuck, 1400 RPM, 25+1 Torque, and 21-Piece Bit Set
The AVID POWER 12V drill earns our Editor’s Choice for its fantastic blend of compact power and longevity. It’s lighter than 20V models, making it perfect for overhead work or tighter spaces. The 2000mAh battery is impressive for its size.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 22Nm max torque in a compact 12V design.
- ✓ Long-lasting 2000mAh lithium-ion battery.
- ✓ 3/8-inch keyless chuck for quick bit changes.
- ✓ Includes a practical 21-piece bit set.
- ✓ Ergonomic, lightweight design.
Why We Recommend It
If you want a drill that feels great in your hand and lasts for years, this is it. Users report incredible battery life even after two years. It’s proof that you don’t always need maximum voltage for effective drilling into walls and household tasks.
Best For
Anyone who needs a reliable, easy-to-handle drill for frequent light to medium-duty tasks. It’s ideal for apartment dwellers or those who value a lightweight tool.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding battery life and durability.
- Very lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- Good torque for a 12V model.
- Trusted brand with good customer support.
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy-duty masonry or thick metal.
- Only includes one battery.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Been using it off and on for over 2 years, rarely recharging. Strong enough for any use so far (wall drilling to hang items, tuning guitar) Price is very reasonable. Light and easy to wield.”
Customer Review: “Compact and easy to store. Nice looking as well.”
3. FADAKWALT 20V Cordless Drill Set with 30N Torque, 21+1 Clutch, 3/8-Inch Keyless Chuck, and LED
This FADAKWALT set is the ultimate value champion. For an incredibly low price, you get a powerful 20V drill, a battery, charger, and a useful kit of accessories including a flexible shaft. It’s a steal for beginners.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 30Nm torque at a budget price point.
- ✓ 21+1 clutch for precision work.
- ✓ Comes with unique extras like a magnetic flexible shaft and extension bar.
- ✓ Includes wood and metal drill bits.
- ✓ Lightweight and ergonomic.
Why We Recommend It
It punches far above its weight class. The flexible shaft is a game-changer for working in awkward spots. For someone starting their first tool collection, this set provides everything needed without any extra trips to the store, making it a top contender for the best cordless drill under $50.
Best For
First-time tool buyers, students, or anyone on an extreme budget who still wants capable 20V power. Perfect for dorm rooms or small apartments.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unbeatable price for the features included.
- Useful flexible shaft accessory.
- Quick and easy to assemble and use.
- Good battery life for the cost.
Cons:
- Build quality is good but not premium.
- Includes only one battery.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I love these fantastic little drills. They charge quickly and do great and quick work with whatever you need done. Very light very easy to use and the battery life is excellent!”
Customer Review: “I’ve been using this drill for a few weeks now, and I’m really impressed. It’s lightweight but powerful enough to handle wood, metal, and even masonry. The battery lasts a long time.”
4. FADAKWALT Pink Cordless Drill Set with 30N Torque, 21+1 Settings, 3/8-Inch Chuck, and LED Light
This is the same great FADAKWALT drill but in a vibrant pink color. It offers the same 30Nm torque and full accessory kit, proving that powerful tools can be fun and personalized. It’s a fantastic way to encourage anyone to start DIYing.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ All the power and features of the standard FADAKWALT model.
- ✓ Eye-catching pink color that’s easy to spot in a toolbox.
- ✓ Includes flexible shaft, extension bar, and assorted bits.
- ✓ 20V power with a 2.0Ah battery.
- ✓ Great conversation starter and gift idea.
Why We Recommend It
Color matters! This drill breaks the stereotype that tools must be black or silver. It delivers serious performance while being uniquely stylish. It’s perfect for gifting or for anyone who wants their tools to reflect their personality.
Best For
Gift-givers, DIYers who love a pop of color, or as a first power tool for teens and young adults. It makes tool ownership more inviting.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Same great performance as the standard model.
- Fun and distinctive color.
- Excellent value-packed accessory set.
- Helps demystify power tools.
Cons:
- Color may not appeal to everyone.
- Only one battery included.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I love these fantastic little drills. They charge quickly and do great and quick work with whatever you need done. Very light very easy to use and the battery life is excellent!”
Customer Review: “I’ve been using this drill for a few weeks now, and I’m really impressed. It’s lightweight but powerful enough to handle wood, metal, and even masonry.”
5. 20V Cordless Drill with 2 Batteries, 3/8-Inch Chuck, 25+3 Torque, and Impact Mode
This drill stands out by including an impact mode alongside two batteries. The 28Nm torque and impact function give it extra oomph for driving long screws or loosening stuck fasteners, making it more versatile than a standard drill.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Impact mode for increased driving force.
- ✓ Comes with two batteries for continuous work.
- ✓ 2-speed gearbox (0-400/0-1650 RPM).
- ✓ 25+3 torque settings for fine control.
- ✓ Lightweight and ergonomic design with LED light.
Why We Recommend It
The impact mode is a significant upgrade. If you ever struggle with a stubborn screw, flicking to impact mode can save the day. Having two batteries means you’re always ready to go, which is crucial for longer projects.
Best For
DIYers who anticipate needing extra driving power for deck building, furniture assembly, or automotive projects. It’s for those who want a taste of an impact driver’s capability without buying a separate tool.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatile impact mode adds functionality.
- Great value with two batteries included.
- Excellent for beginners due to intuitive controls.
- Comfortable for extended use.
Cons:
- Impact mode is not as powerful as a dedicated impact driver.
- Torque settings can be finicky to dial in perfectly.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought this screwdriver/drill mainly to assemble furniture at home, and I’m very satisfied with its performance. It’s lightweight, comfortable to handle, and the torque adjustment is very useful.”
Customer Review: “Amazing device, is really a surprise how powerful it is. Worth every penny.”
6. 12V Cordless Drill Set with 3/8-Inch Keyless Chuck, 92 Accessories, LED Light, and 25+1 Settings
This VIWKO set wins the award for the most comprehensive accessory kit. With 92 pieces, it’s essentially a complete starter workshop in a box. The 12V drill is compact yet boasts a strong 250 inch-pounds of torque.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Massive 92-piece accessory set (drill bits, driver bits, sockets, etc.).
- ✓ 250 inch-pounds of torque for a 12V drill.
- ✓ 25+1 clutch settings for precision.
- ✓ Bright LED light for dark spaces.
- ✓ Compact and lightweight design.
Why We Recommend It
You will not need to buy bits for a long, long time. This set is ideal for someone who wants one purchase to cover all bases. The drill itself is capable, and the vast array of accessories means you’re prepared for almost any small task around the house.
Best For
The ultimate starter set for new homeowners or anyone building their first tool collection. It’s also great for car enthusiasts due to the included socket set.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched number of included accessories.
- Good torque output for its size.
- Excellent organization with a sturdy case.
- Ready to use right out of the box.
Cons:
- Accessory quality is good, but not professional-grade.
- The case can be bulky for storage.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is a good quality drill for a very reasonable price. It worked perfectly right out of the box and didn’t need charging. Easy to change drill bits and a good assortment of them come with the drill.”
Customer Review: “Love this cordless drill. It’s the perfect size for small household chores,and assembling items that need assembly. It’s very convenient, easy to hold,and lightweight.”
7. Pink 21V Cordless Drill for Women with 2.0Ah Battery, 3/8-Inch Chuck, 2 Speeds, and 18+1 Torque
This pink 21V drill combines a stylish look with serious power. The 2.0Ah battery provides long runtime, and the dual-speed design offers both control and power. It’s designed to be both user-friendly and highly capable.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 21V power for robust performance.
- ✓ Smart dual-speed design (0-550 RPM low speed).
- ✓ 3/8-inch keyless chuck for easy operation.
- ✓ Includes a selection of commonly needed driver bits.
- ✓ Attractive pink and white color scheme.
Why We Recommend It
It doesn’t sacrifice performance for style. The 21V rating is among the highest in this price range, giving it plenty of muscle. The low-speed setting is perfect for delicate tasks like assembling electronics or installing hardware, making it a wonderfully versatile choice.
Best For
DIYers who want a powerful drill that also looks great. It’s especially popular as a gift but is a genuinely capable tool for any user.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Higher voltage (21V) provides excellent power.
- Very good battery life and quick charging.
- Comfortable, ergonomic grip.
- Comes with useful bits for immediate projects.
Cons:
- Marketing specifically “for women” may feel limiting to some.
- Only one battery in the kit.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I absolutely love this pink cordless drill! It’s lightweight, easy to hold, and has plenty of power for all my small DIY projects around the house. The 21V battery lasts surprisingly long.”
Customer Review: “I’m really impressed with the cordless power drill. It has helped a lot with many of my home projects, from assembling furniture to small repairs around the house.”
8. DEKOPRO Pink 20V Cordless Drill Set for Women with Battery and Charger, Electric Power Drill Kit
DEKOPRO is a trusted name in affordable tools, and this pink drill lives up to the reputation. It offers reliable 20V power, two variable speeds, and a battery indicator—a feature often missing in budget drills. It’s a solid, no-fuss performer.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Trusted DEKOPRO brand reliability.
- ✓ Two variable speeds (0-350/0-1350 RPM).
- ✓ 18+1 torque settings.
- ✓ Battery charge indicator on the pack.
- ✓ Can drill into wood, metal, ceramic, and plastic.
Why We Recommend It
For those who recognize and trust the DEKOPRO name, this is a great option. The battery indicator is a small but hugely convenient feature that prevents you from starting a job with a dead battery. It’s a well-thought-out tool from a known brand in the cordless drill space.
Best For
Anyone looking for a brand-name drill at a budget price. It’s a reliable choice for general household tasks and is backed by positive customer experiences.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Battery level indicator adds convenience.
- Smooth speed control and comfortable grip.
- Good brand reputation for quality.
- Keyless chuck allows for quick changes.
Cons:
- Only includes one 1.5Ah battery.
- Some users may prefer a higher-capacity battery.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve been using this drill for a few weeks now. It is quite reliable, powerful, and easy to use. It offers strong torque, smooth speed control, and a comfortable grip that reduces hand fatigue.”
Customer Review: “There are SO MANY similar drills available in this price range, it is hard to pick one. The drill has all of the features that my more expensive drill has except it lacks a 2nd battery.”
Complete Buying Guide for Cordless Drill Under $50
Essential Factors We Consider
Choosing the right drill under $50 is about smart compromises. Focus on voltage (V) for power: 12V is great for light tasks, while 20V handles tougher jobs. Torque (Nm or in-lbs) is the twisting force for driving screws; more is better. The clutch (e.g., 21+1) prevents stripping screws. Battery capacity (Ah) dictates runtime—look for 1.5Ah or higher. Also, check if it includes a keyless chuck for easy bit changes and an LED light for dark spaces.
Budget Planning
At this price, you get a capable tool but must manage expectations. You likely won’t get a professional-grade drill, but you will get one perfect for 95% of home jobs. Prioritize kits that include a battery and charger (most do). If possible, find a set with two batteries or a large accessory kit to maximize value. Remember, the cheapest option may lack durability, so consider reputable value brands.
Final Thoughts
You can absolutely find a fantastic cordless drill for under $50. The key is to match the drill’s specs to your most common tasks. For assembling furniture and hanging pictures, a 12V drill is sufficient. For building a deck or more frequent use, a 20V model is worth it. All the drills on our list offer tremendous value and will save you time and effort on your projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a cordless drill under $50 powerful enough for real work?
A: Absolutely. Modern budget drills are surprisingly capable. They can easily handle drilling into wood, drywall, and even some metals. They are perfect for DIY projects, furniture assembly, and general home maintenance. They may struggle with continuous heavy-duty tasks like drilling into thick concrete, which requires a hammer drill.
Q: How long does the battery last on these budget drills?
A: Battery life varies, but most with a 1.5Ah or 2.0Ah battery can last for dozens of screw drives or plenty of intermittent drilling on a single charge. For bigger projects, look for a kit that includes two batteries, so one can charge while you use the other.
Q: What’s the difference between a drill driver and an impact driver?
A: A drill driver is your standard tool for drilling holes and driving screws. An impact driver uses concussive bursts of force to drive screws with much more power and is better for long screws or lag bolts. Some drills under $50, like our #5 pick, include a basic impact mode, but a dedicated impact driver is a separate, more specialized tool.
Q: Can I use these drills to mix paint or mortar?
A: It’s not recommended for most sub-$50 drills. Mixing thick materials like mortar puts a huge strain on the motor and gearbox, which are not designed for such high, continuous torque. You could damage the drill. It’s better to use a dedicated mixing drill or a more powerful model.
Finding a great cordless drill doesn’t require a big investment. As we’ve shown, the sub-$50 market is filled with capable, reliable tools that can empower you to tackle countless projects around your home. Whether you choose our Best Choice for its complete package, the Editor’s Choice for its longevity, or the Best Budget for sheer value, you’re making a smart purchase. Review our list, consider your needs, and pick the drill that feels right for you. Ready to get started? Click on any of the links above to check the latest prices and find your perfect match today!
