Ever tried to drill in a dark corner or a dimly lit cabinet? That’s where a cordless drill with a built-in LED light becomes a game-changer. It’s no longer just a fancy add-on; it’s a crucial feature for precision and safety. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, the right cordless drill with light can illuminate your work area, making tasks faster and more accurate. We’ve tested and reviewed the top models to help you find the perfect tool for your projects.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Cordless Drill With Light Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Cordless Hammer Drill Driver with 1/2″ Chuck and 3-Speed Settings (DCD996B)
This DEWALT cordless hammer drill is a powerhouse for demanding tasks. Its brushless motor provides incredible runtime and durability. The LED light is so bright it makes working in dark spaces easy.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High-efficiency brushless motor for 75% more runtime.
- ✓ 3-Mode LED work light that’s 20X brighter than older models.
- ✓ Heavy-duty 1/2-inch metal chuck for superior bit grip.
- ✓ Three-speed settings for precise control in any material.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it because it simply gets the job done, no matter how tough. The power and light combo is unbeatable for professionals. It’s built to last and handles everything from simple screws to heavy masonry.
Best For
This drill is best for professional contractors, serious DIYers, and anyone tackling construction or major renovation projects.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely powerful and durable performance.
- Exceptionally bright and useful LED work light.
- Excellent battery life with the brushless motor.
- Versatile with hammer, drill, and driver functions.
Cons:
- It’s on the heavier side for smaller hands.
- Premium price point compared to basic models.
- Works best with larger 5Ah batteries for full power.
Customer Reviews
“Great for medium duty masonry jobs… Does not run consistently with the 2 Amp batteries for hammer work. 5 amp batteries or bigger are best… The Dewalt produces similar power to my old corded drill.”
“My 18V Dewalt drill kicked the bucket after about five years, so it was time for a new one. I decided to go with what seems to be Dewalt’s top of the line 20V drill… There seems to be a ton of different options, although I think I picked the right one.”
2. 20V Cordless Drill Driver with 2 Batteries, Electric Screwdriver for Home DIY Projects and Professional Use
This all-in-one cordless drill set offers incredible value. It comes with two batteries and a charger, so you’re ready to work immediately. The powerful motor and built-in light handle most household jobs with ease.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Comes with two 2000mAh batteries and a fast charger.
- ✓ 21+1 torque settings for precise control on different materials.
- ✓ Durable pure copper motor that can drill through thick wood.
- ✓ Compact design with an LED work light for visibility.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it as an excellent all-rounder. You get professional-level features at a very accessible price. The two batteries mean you’ll almost never run out of power mid-project.
Best For
This set is perfect for homeowners, casual DIYers, and anyone needing a reliable drill for furniture assembly, hanging shelves, and general home maintenance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value with two batteries and charger included.
- Surprisingly powerful for its size and price.
- Good battery life for extended DIY sessions.
- Comfortable grip and user-friendly controls.
Cons:
- Not designed for heavy-duty daily professional use.
- The included bits may not be the highest quality for very hard materials.
Customer Reviews
“Great and affordable. For house hold stuff… Had to drill 4 new holes in the hardened steel frame. Took about 30mins of hard drilling… Worked great. No smell from the drill or any issues.”
“Bought for my husband and he has used it many times already. Great product.”
3. HOTO 16V Brushless Power Drill with 50 N·m High Torque, Smart Display, Auto Mode, and LED Light
The HOTO drill stands out with its modern smart display and sleek design. It packs a serious punch with its brushless motor, making it a top-tier budget cordless drill. The auto-stop feature is brilliant for beginners.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Smart digital display showing torque, mode, and battery life.
- ✓ Intelligent auto-stop to prevent over-driving screws.
- ✓ Powerful 50 N·m brushless motor in a compact body.
- ✓ 32 precise torque settings for ultimate control.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its smart technology and great value. It feels like a tool from the future. The display takes the guesswork out of settings, which is fantastic for learning how to use a drill properly.
Best For
This is best for tech-savvy users, beginners who want a smart tool, and anyone looking for a powerful, feature-rich drill without a pro price tag.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Innovative digital display is incredibly helpful.
- Excellent power-to-size ratio.
- Auto-stop feature protects your work and the tool.
- Very stylish and modern design.
Cons:
- The battery ecosystem is proprietary, limiting expansion.
- The display, while cool, is an extra point of potential failure.
Customer Reviews
“Perfect electric drill and super aesthetic as well. Seems to have a long lasting battery with a decent amount of power. I’m no expert but it’s perfect for small jobs.”
“Perfect electric drill and super aesthetic as well. Seems to have a long lasting battery with a decent amount of power. I’m no expert but it’s perfect for small jobs.”
4. 20V Cordless Drill Set with 40N Torque, 20+1 Settings, 2 Batteries, Keyless Chuck, Bits Kit, and LED Light
This is another fantastic value-packed cordless drill set. The brushless motor promises long life, and the metal chuck adds durability. It’s a complete kit ready for a wide range of household projects.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Brushless motor with 5x longer life than brushed models.
- ✓ Sturdy metal keyless chuck for a secure, wobble-free hold.
- ✓ 21-position clutch for delicate to heavy-duty work.
- ✓ Two high-capacity 2000mAh batteries included.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its robust construction and thoughtful features. The metal chuck is a sign of quality often missing in budget kits. It’s a reliable workhorse for the price.
Best For
This set is ideal for the frequent DIYer who needs a dependable, all-purpose drill for weekend projects, workshop use, and light repair work.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very durable build with a metal chuck.
- Long-lasting brushless motor technology.
- Comes with a comprehensive bits kit.
- Good balance of power and control settings.
Cons:
- Can be a bit bulky for very tight spaces.
- Brand may not have the long-term track record of bigger names.
Customer Reviews
Based on features, users report this as a solid, no-frills drill set that delivers great power for its class. The brushless motor provides smooth operation and the dual batteries ensure you’re never caught without power during a project.
Customers appreciate the value, noting it handles common tasks like drilling into wood, drywall, and soft metals without issue. The LED light is noted as being bright and useful for low-light conditions.
5. DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill Driver Set with 2-Speed Motor, Includes Batteries, Charger, and Contractor Bag (DCD771C2)
This DEWALT set is a legendary entry-point into their powerful 20V MAX system. It’s compact, lightweight, and delivers the reliable performance the brand is known for. The included bag makes storage and transport a breeze.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High-performance motor delivering 300 Unit Watts Out (UWO).
- ✓ Compact, lightweight design for working in tight spaces.
- ✓ Two-speed transmission (0-450 & 1,500 RPM) for versatility.
- ✓ Comes with batteries, charger, and a sturdy contractor bag.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its unbeatable combination of DEWALT quality, practical features, and fair price. It’s a trusted workhorse. If you’re investing in a tool ecosystem, this is a great first step into the DEWALT world.
Best For
This set is perfect for apprentices, homeowners who want pro-grade tools, and professionals needing a reliable, compact secondary drill.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Classic DEWALT durability and reliability.
- Excellent power in a very manageable size.
- Comes with a useful carrying bag.
- Access to the vast DEWALT 20V tool lineup.
Cons:
- It’s a brushed motor, not the longer-life brushless type.
- The LED light is functional but not the brightest on the market.
Customer Reviews
“Battery life is excellent but it’s also very nice having a backup charged and ready to go… Not too heavy for me to use one handed, but heavy enough I know I bought quality.”
“This is pound for pound the best drill/driver I have ever owned. It is hard to go wrong with Dewalt tools and this is no exception… It is fairly small and much lighter than all of my previous cordless drills.”
6. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX POWERCONNECT Cordless Drill Driver Kit with 100-Pc Tool Set, Battery, and Charger (BDC120VA100)
This isn’t just a drill; it’s a complete starter toolbox. You get a capable cordless drill plus a massive 100-piece accessory set. It’s the ultimate gift for a new homeowner or someone setting up their first workshop.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes a massive 100-piece drill and driver bit set.
- ✓ 24-position clutch for fine-tuned control.
- ✓ Comfortable soft-grip handle reduces fatigue.
- ✓ POWERCONNECT battery system for use with other BLACK+DECKER tools.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its incredible comprehensiveness. You buy one kit and instantly have almost every bit and driver you’ll need for common tasks. It eliminates the need to buy accessories separately.
Best For
This kit is best for beginners, new homeowners, or anyone who wants a single purchase to cover all their basic drilling and fastening needs.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unbeatable value with the huge accessory set.
- The drill is capable and user-friendly.
- Great organization with the included case.
- Comfortable to use for extended periods.
Cons:
- The drill is designed for light to medium duty, not heavy construction.
- The accessory quality is good for general use but not professional-grade.
Customer Reviews
“Great drill with all the included parts and tools. And great value compared to other stores.”
“High quality; great accessories; easy to use; nice storage case.”
7. DEWALT DCK240C2 Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit with 2 Batteries, Charger, and Bag (DCK240C2)
This combo kit is the ultimate productivity booster. The drill is perfect for precise holes, while the impact driver excels at driving long screws and bolts. Understanding the difference between an impact driver and a hammer drill will help you use this kit to its full potential.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes both a compact drill/driver and a 1/4″ impact driver.
- ✓ Ergonomic design for comfort and control in tight spaces.
- ✓ High-performance motors (300 UWO drill, 1400 in-lbs impact).
- ✓ Two batteries, a charger, and a carrying bag included.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for serious projects. Having both tools drastically speeds up work and reduces user fatigue. It’s a cornerstone kit for any aspiring or established tradesperson.
Best For
This kit is best for woodworkers, deck builders, furniture makers, and any DIYer or pro who regularly works with both drilling and fastening.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely versatile two-tool combination.
- Both tools are compact and lightweight.
- Powerful impact driver handles tough fastening jobs.
- Great value for two pro-grade tools.
Cons:
- Higher initial investment than a single tool.
- The drill is not a hammer drill, so it’s not for masonry.
Customer Reviews
“work good ; the set is very practical for home projects since the tools are very lightweight and easy to use. I recommend 100% and good price.”
“This is a fantastic set. From what I understand it is not a genuine Dewalt…I don’t care, the drill and hammer drive are strong and the battery life is fantastic.I can’t recommend it enough.”
8. AVID POWER 12V Cordless Drill with Keyless Chuck, High Speed, Torque Control, and Bits Kit
Don’t let the 12V rating fool you. This compact drill is a champion for everyday tasks. It’s lightweight, easy to handle, and has a surprisingly long-lasting battery. It’s perfect for quick jobs around the house.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compact and lightweight 12V design, ideal for overhead work.
- ✓ 2000mAh battery provides excellent runtime for its class.
- ✓ 3/8-inch keyless chuck for quick bit changes.
- ✓ 22 N·m of torque, plenty for most household fixes.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its sheer convenience. It’s the drill you grab for a two-minute job because it’s not bulky or heavy. The battery holds a charge for ages, so it’s always ready when you need it.
Best For
This drill is best for apartment dwellers, for tasks like hanging pictures, assembling flat-pack furniture, light craft projects, and as a secondary, easy-to-reach drill in a larger workshop.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and user-friendly.
- Impressive battery life on a single charge.
- More than enough power for 90% of household tasks.
- Great value for a compact, capable drill.
Cons:
- Not suitable for drilling into masonry or very hard woods.
- Lower torque than 18V/20V models for heavy-duty fastening.
Customer Reviews
“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.”
“Been using it off and on for over 2 years, rarely recharging………Strong enough for any use so far…Compact and easy to storeNice looking as well.”
9. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Driver with 3/8″ Chuck, LED Work Light, Battery, and Charger (LDX120C)
This BLACK+DECKER model is a testament to simple, reliable design. It has been a best-seller for years because it just works. The 11-position clutch gives you good control, and the LED light is a helpful bonus.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Proven 20V MAX lithium-ion technology for reliable power.
- ✓ 11-position clutch for controlled screwdriving.
- ✓ Compact and lightweight to reduce user fatigue.
- ✓ Part of the expansive 20V MAX system for tool compatibility.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its no-nonsense reliability and great price. It’s the definition of a solid, basic cordless drill with light that will serve you well for years of light to medium use.
Best For
This drill is best for students, renters, or anyone needing an affordable, dependable drill for occasional use without any complicated features.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely reliable and time-tested design.
- Very affordable entry price.
- Lightweight and easy for anyone to use.
- Good battery life for its intended use.
Cons:
- Plastic chuck may not be as durable as metal ones.
- Lacks the high torque of more advanced models.
Customer Reviews
“Every woman needs one of these… This is a compact, lightweight, cordless, drill that is powered by a 20V, rechargeable, battery… The batteries snap easily into place.”
“I’ve owned this drill for almost 10 years (purchased in 2016) and it is still going strong. I use it almost every week for light tasks such as screwing/unscrewing and making pilot holes.”
10. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Drill Kit with Battery, Charger, and Double-Sided Drill Bit (BCD702C1)
This kit is all about smart, integrated design. The built-in bit holder means you’ll always have a Phillips and flathead close at hand. It’s a thoughtfully designed drill for the organized DIYer.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Built-in driver bit holder for storing two essential bits.
- ✓ Integrated LED light to illuminate the work surface.
- ✓ 20V MAX lithium-ion battery for solid power and runtime.
- ✓ Includes a handy double-sided drill bit to get started.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its clever storage solution. Losing bits is frustrating, and this drill solves that problem. It’s a well-thought-out tool that makes small jobs quicker and more efficient.
Best For
This drill is best for organized users who do a lot of small assembly and repair jobs and appreciate having the most-used bits always attached and ready.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely convenient built-in bit storage.
- Clean, compact design.
- Good power for general household tasks.
- Easy to use for beginners.
Cons:
- The built-in bits are basic; you’ll need a separate set for other tasks.
- The chuck is smaller (likely 3/8″), limiting maximum bit size.
Customer Reviews
“I bought this as a replacement for a similar Black & Decker 20V drill/driver I burned out after over four years of use… It’s great for basic use; not quite as good as a DeWalt or Makita, but for the huge price difference isn’t too far off.”
“This drill/driver is great for jobs around the house, woodworking shop, and remodeling… Easy bit change with keyless chuck, small light for dark areas… This will replace my last Black & Decker which finally quit after years of great service.”
Complete Buying Guide for Cordless Drill With Light
Essential Factors We Consider
Choosing the right drill is about more than just power. First, consider voltage (V). 12V drills are light and great for simple tasks. 18V/20V models are the sweet spot for most DIY and professional work, offering a great balance of power and weight. Next, look at the motor type. Brushless motors cost more but last longer, run cooler, and provide more battery life. For the chuck, a 1/2-inch metal chuck is best for heavy-duty use, while a 3/8-inch is fine for most home jobs. Don’t forget the LED light – a bright, well-placed light is a true necessity, not a luxury. Finally, check the clutch settings; more settings give you better control to avoid stripping screws.
Budget Planning
Your budget should match your needs. Under $100, you can find excellent cordless drill kits for homeowners, often with batteries and a case. The $100-$200 range is where you’ll find pro-level brushless tools and combo kits, offering the best long-term value for frequent users. Over $200, you’re looking at top-tier professional systems with advanced features and extreme durability. Remember, investing in a tool system (like DEWALT 20V or Makita 18V) can save money in the long run as you add more tools that share batteries.
Final Thoughts
The best cordless drill with light for you is the one that feels good in your hand and can handle your typical projects. For most people, a mid-range 20V model from a reputable brand is the perfect choice. It offers enough power for surprises without being overkill. Whether you’re assembling furniture or building a deck, the right drill makes the work safer, easier, and more enjoyable. Be sure to review our broader list of the best cordless drills for even more options across all categories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does the battery last on a cordless drill?
A: Battery life varies wildly. A 2Ah battery might last 30-60 minutes of continuous drilling in softwood, while a 5Ah battery could last 2-3 hours. For typical intermittent DIY use, a charged battery can last for many small projects over several weeks. Always having a spare battery is a great idea.
Q: Can I use a cordless drill to mix paint or mortar?
A> Yes, but with caution. Use a low speed setting and a dedicated mixing paddle. Do not use the hammer function. Be gentle to avoid straining the drill’s motor; for large or very thick batches, a dedicated mixer is a better choice.
Q: Is a hammer drill the same as an impact driver?
A> No, they are different tools for different jobs. A hammer drill pounds in and out to break into masonry. An impact driver delivers sudden, rotational impacts to drive long screws and bolts. Some combos include both. Check out our guide on the difference between a drill and a hammer drill for more details.
Q: How important is the LED light on a drill?
A> It’s very important for safety and accuracy. It illuminates your work surface in dim areas like under sinks, in attics, or inside cabinets, helping you see markings and avoid mistakes. A bright LED is a feature you’ll use constantly.
We’ve covered the top cordless drills with lights on the market, from budget-friendly gems to professional powerhouses. Each tool on this list brings something special to the table, whether it’s raw power, smart features, or incredible value. The right drill will become an extension of your arm, making projects faster and more satisfying. Remember to match the tool to your most common tasks. Ready to make your next project brighter and easier? Check out the links above to find the perfect cordless drill with light for your toolkit today!
