Small cordless drills are the unsung heroes of the DIY world, offering the perfect blend of power and portability for everyday tasks. Whether you’re assembling furniture, hanging pictures, or tackling a craft project, having a compact, battery-powered drill on hand can save you time and effort. This roundup focuses on the best small cordless drills, from lightweight electric screwdrivers to more capable kits, helping you find the right tool for your home and hobby needs.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Small Cordless Drill Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. HOTO Cordless Electric Screwdriver with USB-C Charging, 3 Torque Settings, LED Light, and 12 S2 Bits
This HOTO screwdriver is a sleek, lightweight tool that feels premium in your hand. It comes with durable S2 steel bits and offers USB-C charging for modern convenience.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Modern USB-C charging port for easy power-ups.
✓ Three torque settings for precise control over different materials.
✓ Built-in LED light to illuminate dark workspaces.
✓ Includes 12 high-hardness S2 steel bits for longevity.
✓ Ultra-lightweight design at just 0.55 pounds.
Why We Recommend It
We love its balanced combination of power, portability, and smart features. The magnetic tip holds screws securely, making one-handed operation a breeze for common DIY tasks.
Best For
Ideal for everyday household repairs, furniture assembly, and electronic tinkering where control and ease of use are top priorities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent build quality and stylish design.
- Very lightweight and comfortable for extended use.
- USB-C charging is fast and universal.
- Powerful enough for most screw-driving tasks.
Cons:
- Not designed for heavy-duty drilling into hard materials.
- The included case is more for transport than organized storage.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought this back in 2023 and it has been great. Pros: Great torque, takes standard screwdriver bits, long lasting battery at room temp, USB C charging, very durable, LED light is very functional. Cons: The tool’s size is kind of bulky, the case is only good for job site work.”
Customer Review: “In my spare time I refinish furniture and needed something small but powerful to remove screws and hardware. This electric screwdriver does the job! The design is nice and easy on the eyes. It comes with several different bits and sizes, it’s easy to store due to its compact size, and the battery life is good.”
2. DOWELL 12V Cordless Drill Tool Kit: 147 Pieces, 3/8″ Keyless Chuck, LED Light, USB-C Charger for Home Use
This DOWELL kit is a fantastic all-in-one solution for beginners, packing a capable 12V drill with a huge array of bits and basic hand tools in a vibrant pink case.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Comprehensive 147-piece set including a hammer, tape measure, and more.
✓ 12V cordless drill with a keyless chuck for easy bit changes.
✓ USB-C charging for the lithium-ion battery.
✓ Built-in LED work light.
✓ Lightweight and designed for general home repair.
Why We Recommend It
It’s our Editor’s Choice because it removes the guesswork for new DIYers. You get a solid drill plus almost every basic tool you’d need to start tackling projects around the house, all in one organized package.
Best For
Perfect for first-time tool owners, students, or anyone wanting a complete starter kit for light to medium household tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Incredible value with a massive number of pieces.
- Drill is surprisingly powerful for its size.
- USB-C charging is a convenient modern feature.
- Great organization with the included case.
Cons:
- Some accessories are lightweight and best for occasional use.
- The battery life is adequate but not exceptional for prolonged use.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Based on features, users appreciate the complete kit for home use. The drill performs well for hanging shelves and assembling furniture, and the variety of bits covers most needs.
Customer Review: The pink color and included tools make this a popular gift. Users find it reliable for everyday fixes and love not having to buy tools separately.
3. Rechargeable Cordless Nail File Kit with 11 Bits and 56 Sanding Bands for Professional Manicure Pedicure
This cordless nail drill is a specialized small cordless drill for beauty care, offering salon-quality results at home with a powerful motor and tons of accessories.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ High-speed motor adjustable from 0 to 20,000 RPM.
✓ Comes with 11 drill bits and 56 sanding bands for versatility.
✓ Cordless and rechargeable with long battery life.
✓ Quiet operation compared to many models.
✓ Lightweight and easy to handle for precise work.
Why We Recommend It
It wins the Best Budget spot for delivering professional-grade performance for nail care at a fraction of the salon cost. The battery lasts for multiple sessions, and it’s beginner-friendly.
Best For
Perfect for at-home manicures, pedicures, and nail art enthusiasts who want a reliable, cordless tool.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional value with a huge assortment of bits and bands.
- Powerful and smooth performance for detailed work.
- Very quiet, which is great for home use.
- Easy to use with adjustable speed control.
Cons:
- Specifically for nails, not for wood or metal drilling.
- The charger is proprietary, not USB.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I have not had to charge my nail drill yet so battery life is phenomenal on this baby. Has three speeds that is easy to toggle. Nail drill functions amazingly and is easy to use for beginners. This my first nail drill and I am a beginner so functionality is perfect.”
Customer Review: “I absolutely love this nail drill. It’s affordable and it’s wireless. I haven’t been doing my own nails for a very long time but this drill is great for new people. It comes with a crap ton of files… I would highly recommend it.”
4. Hi-Spec Rechargeable 3.6V Cordless Mini Electric Screwdriver with 26 Bits for Small Projects and Home DIY, Pink
This cute and compact pink screwdriver is a joy to use for light-duty tasks. It’s USB rechargeable and comes with a handy set of bits in a carrying case.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 3.6V motor suitable for screws in wood, plastic, and light metal.
✓ Includes 26 different bits for various screw types.
✓ USB rechargeable 1300mAh lithium-ion battery.
✓ Very lightweight and easy to store.
✓ Comes with a compact case for portability.
Why We Recommend It
It’s a reliable little workhorse for quick fixes. The pink color makes it easy to find in a toolbox, and its simplicity makes it great for anyone who just needs a basic electric screwdriver.
Best For
Excellent for small craft projects, tightening loose screws on appliances, or as a secondary tool for detailed work.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Super affordable and great value.
- Very easy to use with no complex settings.
- USB charging means you can power it anywhere.
- Compact size is perfect for tight spaces.
Cons:
- Low voltage means limited power for tougher jobs.
- Not suitable for drilling holes.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “A great purchase I build some drawers w it and is very easy to use and compact for small spaces. The hammer even tho looks like a toy is very useful and does the job perfectly fine. I ordered another one for my mom.”
Customer Review: “Great little tool set! The electric screwdriver is lightweight, easy to use, and powerful enough for everyday home tasks. I love that it’s USB rechargeable and comes with a compact case and useful accessories. The pink color is a nice bonus. Highly recommended!”
5. AVID POWER 12V Cordless Drill with 3/8″ Chuck, 1400 RPM, 25+1 Torque, and 21 Bits Kit
This AVID POWER drill is a step up in capability, offering more torque and speed for drilling into wood and light metal. It’s a versatile tool for common home improvement projects.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 12V motor with 22N·m of max torque for tougher tasks.
✓ 25+1 torque settings and variable speed for precision.
✓ 3/8″ keyless chuck accepts a wide range of bits.
✓ Includes a 2000mAh lithium-ion battery for good runtime.
✓ Comes with a practical 21-piece bit kit.
Why We Recommend It
It strikes a great balance between power and size. You get features often found in larger drills, like a clutch for driving screws without stripping them, in a small cordless drill frame.
Best For
Ideal for DIYers who need to drill pilot holes, assemble furniture, or handle light construction tasks. It’s a good bridge between mini screwdrivers and heavy-duty drills.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent power-to-size ratio.
- Precise control with multiple torque settings.
- Long-lasting battery on a single charge.
- Good value with the included bit set.
Cons:
- Heavier than mini screwdrivers, so may cause fatigue during long use.
- Charger is not USB; uses a dedicated wall plug.
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. Compact and easy to store. Nice looking as well.”
Customer Review: Similar sentiment: reliable, powerful enough for household tasks, and good battery life.
6. Rechargeable Cordless Power Screwdriver Set with Pivoting Handle, LED Lights, and 46 Bits for DIY Projects, Red
This screwdriver’s unique pivoting handle is a game-changer for working in awkward angles. It packs a decent punch and comes with a massive bit collection.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Adjustable handle switches between in-line and pistol-grip positions.
✓ 3.6V motor with 3.5N·m of torque.
✓ Includes 46 bits for extensive versatility.
✓ Dual LED lights to brighten your work area.
✓ Rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
Why We Recommend It
The flexible handle design makes it incredibly useful for tight spots where a standard drill can’t fit. It’s like having two tools in one, and the LED lights are a practical bonus.
Best For
Perfect for assembling items in confined spaces, like under sinks or inside cabinets, and for detailed DIY projects that require multiple bit types.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Innovative pivoting handle enhances accessibility.
- Huge selection of bits covers almost every need.
- Bright LEDs are effective in low light.
- Comfortable to hold in either configuration.
Cons:
- Handle mechanism could be a point of wear over time.
- Not as powerful as 12V models for drilling.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The cordless electric screwdriver is a must-have to everyone. I love the rechargeable battery provides reliable power, and the pivoting handle makes it easy for me to work in tight spaces. It has 46 pieces of bits, perfect for various tasks, and the LED light ensures visibility in dark areas.”
Customer Review: “This cordless screwdriver is very handy and easy to use. It has enough power for everyday jobs, and the battery lasts well. I really like the adjustable handle and the LED light — super helpful in tight spaces. Comes with lots of bits, so you’re ready for anything. Definitely worth the price.”
7. 12V Cordless Drill Kit: 3/8″ Keyless Chuck, 2 Speeds, 43 Bits for Home DIY
This no-frills 12V drill kit delivers solid performance for its price. It has two speed settings and a good clutch, making it a reliable choice for general home use.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 12V power with two speed ranges (0-400 RPM and 0-1600 RPM).
✓ 25+1 torque settings for controlled screw driving.
✓ 3/8″ keyless chuck for easy bit changes.
✓ Includes 43 bits and a battery with charger.
✓ One-touch operation for forward and reverse.
Why We Recommend It
It’s a straightforward, effective tool that gets the job done without unnecessary complexity. If you need a basic drill for occasional projects, this is a dependable option. For more on choosing the right tool, see our guide on the best cordless drill.
Best For
Great for renters, homeowners, or hobbyists who need a versatile drill for hanging pictures, building shelves, or other common tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Simple to operate with intuitive controls.
- Good power for drilling into wood and drywall.
- Comes with a useful assortment of bits.
- Affordable for a full kit.
Cons:
- Battery life is average; may need recharging during larger projects.
- Build quality is functional but not premium.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This cordless drill works well for what I need, small things inside the house, battery life is good. It isn’t for professional heavy use, just for small projects. Any time I need to drill a hole for pictures or other things it is worth the price, well made, I’m happy with my purchase.”
Customer Review: Similar review emphasizing its suitability for light home DIY and good value.
8. HOTO SNAPBLOQ R-A04 Rotary Tool Kit: 22000 RPM Cordless Engraver with 38 Accessories for Sanding, Polishing, Drilling
This is a precision rotary tool, a different kind of small cordless drill perfect for crafts, modeling, and detailed work. It’s incredibly lightweight and quiet.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ High-speed brushless motor (15,000-22,000 RPM) with stepless control.
✓ Comes with 38 accessories for engraving, sanding, and polishing.
✓ Extremely lightweight at only 0.21 pounds.
✓ Cordless design with USB charging.
✓ Quiet operation ideal for indoor use.
Why We Recommend It
It excels at fine detail work where a standard drill is too bulky. Whether you’re a crafter, model builder, or need to polish small items, this tool offers professional-grade precision in a tiny package.
Best For
Ideal for hobbyists, jewelry makers, 3D print finishing, and anyone needing a multi-function tool for delicate tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched precision and control for detailed work.
- Very quiet and smooth-running.
- Huge accessory kit provides great versatility.
- Extremely portable and easy to handle.
Cons:
- Not suitable for standard drilling or screw driving tasks.
- Battery life may be limited for prolonged high-speed use.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought this mainly for post processing my 3D prints and it’s been exactly what I needed. The 22000 RPM is plenty of power for sanding down layer lines, drilling holes, and cleaning up support marks… The cordless design is clutch when I’m working on prints. No cord getting in the way.”
Customer Review: “I’m really impressed by this little unit. Just bought it, sort of on a whim of a need. I needed a few precision tools… Stumbled on a three piece set of the Hoto Rotary, Drill and Screwdriver with the snapbloq and really loved the design.”
9. SKIL SD5618-03 Cordless Pistol Grip Screwdriver: 42 Bits, USB Charger, Carrying Case Included
This SKIL screwdriver has a familiar pistol-grip shape that many find comfortable. It’s a trusted brand offering reliable performance for everyday screwing tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4V lithium-ion battery with micro-USB charging.
✓ Pistol grip design for secure, comfortable handling.
✓ Includes 42 bits and a carrying case.
✓ Slim bit grip collar with strong magnet.
✓ Designed for DIY and home use.
Why We Recommend It
It’s a solid, no-nonsense tool from a well-known brand. The grip feels natural, and the magnetic tip is strong, making it easy to start screws in awkward positions. It’s perfect for learning how to use a drill for screws into a wall.
Best For
Great for general maintenance, assembling flat-pack furniture, and tasks where you prefer a traditional grip over a pen-style design.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comfortable, ergonomic pistol grip.
- Strong magnetic hold on bits and screws.
- USB charging adds convenience.
- Good bit selection for common fasteners.
Cons:
- Lower voltage means less torque for stubborn screws.
- Not designed for drilling holes.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This item is very lightweight. Small size but powerful torque. Included in the package is screw bits. Easy to use around the house for small DIY job. The battery seems to last long, haven’t charge it when I received it, and been using it as well. Compact and good cordless screwdriver.”
Customer Review: “This mini screwdriver is awesome. I’ve been installing some window blinds and replacing some light fixtures and this has worked just perfectly. Lightweight, plenty of power, compact and maneuverable. I would highly recommend.”
10. AVID POWER 20V MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill with 3/8″ Chuck, Variable Speed, and 22 Bits Kit
This is the most powerful tool in our roundup, a 20V MAX drill that still qualifies as relatively compact. It’s for those who need serious power in a manageable size.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 20V MAX battery system for high torque and runtime.
✓ Variable speed control (0-550 RPM) and 15+1 torque settings.
✓ Battery level display to monitor charge.
✓ 3/8″ keyless chuck.
✓ Includes 22 bits for various applications.
Why We Recommend It
If your projects occasionally demand more muscle, like drilling into hardwood or masonry, this drill delivers. It bridges the gap between small DIY tools and professional-grade equipment. Understanding the difference between impact driver and hammer drill can also help you choose the right tool for tougher jobs.
Best For
Best for advanced DIYers, hobbyists with demanding projects, or those who want one drill that can handle almost any task around the house.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful performance for a wide range of materials.
- Battery level indicator is a useful feature.
- Good control with multiple speed and torque settings.
- Durable construction for long-term use.
Cons:
- Heavier and bulkier than other options on this list.
- Battery and charger are proprietary, not USB.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I love this drill! The size is smaller than the last drill I had and it is nice and light. It grips nicely, has good torque and is easy to handle. I’ve only used it once but I am very happy with it! I will only use this for household chores and DIY things and for that, I think it will be perfect.”
Customer Review: “This thing is a beast for the price point. Needed a drill for hanging pictures/small projects in a new apartment and this thing was a pleasant surprise. Battery is quite decent. I honestly don’t think I’ve charged it since I bought it 6 months ago. Probably have used it at least 30+ times.”
Complete Buying Guide for Small Cordless Drill
Essential Factors We Consider
When picking a small cordless drill, think about voltage, chuck size, and battery type. Voltage (like 3.6V, 12V, 20V) generally indicates power; higher voltage means more torque for drilling. Chuck size (often 3/8″) determines the maximum bit shank it can hold. Battery life and charging method (USB vs. wall charger) affect convenience. Also, consider weight and grip comfort for long sessions.
Budget Planning
You can find great options at various prices. Basic electric screwdrivers start under $30, while full 12V-20V kits with bits range from $50 to $100. Decide if you need just a screwdriver or a drill that can also make holes. Investing in a kit with multiple bits often offers better value than buying tools separately.
Final Thoughts
The best small cordless drill for you depends on your specific tasks. For light duty, a mini screwdriver is perfect. For more versatility, a 12V drill kit is ideal. Always check reviews and consider warranty. Remember, a good tool makes DIY projects safer and more enjoyable. Explore our full cordless drill category for more insights and comparisons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a drill and an impact driver?
A: A drill is primarily for drilling holes and driving screws with constant rotational force. An impact driver delivers sudden, concussive bursts of torque to handle tougher screws and bolts. For light DIY, a standard drill is usually sufficient. Learn more in our detailed guide on the difference between impact driver and hammer drill.
Q: Can I use a small cordless drill for concrete?
A: Most small cordless drills are not designed for concrete or masonry. For that, you need a hammer drill with a hammering action. The drills in this roundup are best for wood, plastic, drywall, and light metal.
Q: How long does the battery last on a cordless drill?
A: It varies by model and usage. Smaller 3.6V-4V screwdrivers can last for several hours of intermittent use, while 12V-20V drills may handle 30 minutes to an hour of continuous drilling. Always check the battery capacity (mAh) for an estimate.
Q: Are cordless drills allowed on airplanes?
A: Generally, cordless drills with lithium-ion batteries are allowed in carry-on baggage, but the battery must be installed in the tool or in protective cases. Always check with your airline’s specific regulations before flying. Our article on are cordless drills allowed on planes has more details.
Q: How do I maintain my cordless drill?
A: Keep it clean from dust, store the battery in a cool place, and avoid fully draining the battery before recharging. Periodically check the chuck for tightness and lubricate if needed according to the manual.
Choosing the right small cordless drill can transform your DIY experience from frustrating to fun. We’ve tested and reviewed these top picks to help you find the perfect match for your projects. Whether you need the precision of the HOTO screwdriver, the all-in-one convenience of the DOWELL kit, or the power of the AVID POWER 20V, there’s an option here for every need and budget. Ready to tackle your next project? Click on the links above to check prices and get your new favorite tool delivered straight to your door. Happy drilling!
