10 Best Lightweight Cordless Drills in 2026

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Our best overall lightweight cordless drill is the DeWalt 20V MAX DCD777B for its excellent balance of compact power and an ergonomic grip. For the most compact professional tool, we recommend the Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless Drill Driver, and homeowners should see the budget-friendly AVID POWER 20V Cordless Drill Set.

A lighter drill reduces arm and wrist fatigue, especially during overhead work or in confined spaces. But the lightest tool isn’t always the most capable. We built this list by researching specifications, manufacturer data, and patterns in expert round-ups and owner feedback to find drills that deliver on power without the bulk.

Top 10 Lightweight Cordless Drills in the Market

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The Best Lightweight Cordless Drills, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

DeWalt 20V MAX DCD777B Cordless Drill

DeWalt 20V MAX DCD777B Cordless Drill
Weight2.6 pounds
Length (front to back)7.52 inches
Motor typeBrushless
Chuck size1/2 inch
Battery/ChargerSold separately
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What We Like

  • Brushless motor for longer run time
  • Compact, lightweight design for tight spaces
  • Ergonomic grip for balance and control
  • LED light with 20-second delay

Trade-offs

  • Tool only: requires separate battery and charger purchase
  • At 2.6 lb, heavier than the 1.6 lb Milwaukee M12

DeWalt’s DCD777B uses a brushless motor, which the company states delivers more run time than a brushed motor would. At 2.6 pounds, the tool is lightweight, and its 7.52-inch front-to-back length is designed to fit into tight areas like cabinets. An ergonomic comfort grip is included to provide balance and tool control.

This is a tool-only listing, so a DeWalt 20V battery and charger must be purchased separately. While its 2.6-pound weight is manageable, the Milwaukee M12 Subcompact Brushless Drill weighs 1.6 pounds, which could be preferable for overhead tasks. The ergonomic grip and compact design are features intended for user comfort and access in confined spaces.

Best for: The DIYer or pro seeking a full-featured, compact drill for general building and renovation. Not ideal for users needing the absolute lightest tool for prolonged overhead work or those new to cordless tools without any existing battery platform.

Product photos

#2Best Compact Pro

Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless Drill Driver

Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless Drill Driver
Weight2.3 pounds
Length5.7 inches
Torque550 in./lbs.
Speed500 to 1700 RPM
MotorBrushless
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What We Like

  • Extremely compact 5.7-inch length
  • Lightweight for overhead and tight-space work
  • Brushless motor for efficient power delivery
  • Good torque for common fastening and drilling

Trade-offs

  • Tool only: battery and charger sold separately
  • Torque is lower than heavy-duty pro models like the Milwaukee 2904
  • No hammer function for masonry work

With a length of only 5.7 inches, the Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless Drill Driver fits easily into tight spaces and provides excellent balance and control, which is ideal for overhead applications or cabinetry work. Its brushless motor delivers 550 inch-pounds of torque and a speed range up to 1700 RPM, providing the power to quickly complete most common applications. This compact design and power combination makes it a tool that reduces user fatigue during extended use in confined quarters.

The trade-off for that compact size is peak power. When your research moves to concrete or you’re regularly drilling large-diameter holes in dense material, you’ll feel the limit of its 550 in./lbs. For those heavy-duty tasks, you’d step up to a tool like the Milwaukee M18 2904 hammer drill, which offers more than double the torque. But for the vast majority of general construction and installation work, this compact driver delivers pro-grade performance without the bulk.

Best for: Tradespeople and advanced DIYers who prioritize maneuverability and control in tight spaces for framing, finish work, and overhead applications. Not ideal for applications requiring a hammer drill function.
#3Best Sub-Compact

Makita XFD15ZB Sub-Compact Drill Driver

Makita XFD15ZB Sub-Compact Drill Driver
Weight with battery2.9 lbs
Motor typeBrushless
Chuck size1/2 inch
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What We Like

  • Compact 5-7/8-inch length for tight spaces
  • Durable metal jampot gear housing
  • Brushless motor for efficiency and longevity

Trade-offs

  • Tool only: requires separate purchase of battery and charger

Its compact length of just 5-7/8 inches lets it work in tight spaces where other drills can’t fit, making it a specialist for cabinetry or electrical boxes. The weight of 2.9 pounds with a battery reduces operator fatigue during overhead or extended use. A metal jampot design is engineered for increased durability in demanding job site conditions.

Since this is a tool-only offering, you’ll need to buy a Makita LXT battery and charger separately. For users who do not frequently work in confined spaces, other models like the DeWalt DCD777B offer a different form factor. However, a project list full of tight corners makes the Makita’s specific design pay off where it counts.

Best for: Tradespeople and advanced DIYers who regularly work in confined spaces like cabinets or between studs. Not ideal for first-time buyers needing a complete kit.
#4Best Budget Pick

AVID POWER 20V Cordless Drill Set

AVID POWER 20V Cordless Drill Set
Torque280 In-lbs
Speed0-550 RPM
Chuck size3/8" keyless
Included accessories22 bits & accessories
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What We Like

  • Real-time battery level display for charge monitoring
  • 15+1 torque settings for precise screwdriving control
  • Complete kit with 22 accessories ready for immediate use

Trade-offs

  • Not suitable for drill bits larger than 25mm
  • Cannot drill into concrete or masonry walls
  • Battery requires recharging every 3 months during storage

Lightweight at just 2.5 pounds, this drill minimizes fatigue during long furniture assembly or wall mounting tasks. Its 15+1 torque settings provide precise control to prevent stripping screws in wood or drywall, while the included 22-piece bit set covers most common home projects immediately. For occasional DIY use a few times a month, the complete kit delivers utility without requiring additional purchases.

The tool’s limits are defined for light-duty work, with a maximum drilling capacity of 13/16-inch in wood and no suitability for concrete or masonry. Its 280 in-lbs of torque and 550 RPM speed are intended for materials like plastic and metal plate, not heavy framing. By focusing on an ergonomic grip, built-in LED light, and a keyless chuck, the set prioritizes user-friendly operation for beginners over professional-grade power.

Best for: Homeowners and first-time users tackling furniture assembly, wall mounting, and light crafts. Not ideal for concrete, masonry, or heavy-duty construction tasks.
#5Best Power-to-Weight Ratio

Bosch GSR18V-400B22 Compact Drill Driver

Bosch GSR18V-400B22 Compact Drill Driver
Weight2.0 pounds
Torque400 In.-Lbs.
Head Length6.3 inches
Clutch Settings20
Chuck MaterialAll-metal
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What We Like

  • Exceptional power density for its 2.0-pound weight.
  • Compact 6.3-inch head for work in tight spaces.
  • Brushless motor for efficient power and runtime.
  • Ergonomic grip zone for better control and comfort.

Trade-offs

  • The 18V system may be more tool than needed for ultra-lightweight, occasional tasks.

Delivering 400 inch-pounds of torque from a tool that weighs just 2 pounds is a serious engineering feat. That power-to-weight ratio means you can drive large lag bolts or bore into dense lumber all day without your arm giving out from fatigue. This Bosch is for the user who needs genuine 18V muscle in the most confined spaces, like between joists or inside cabinetry, where a bulkier drill simply won’t fit. The compact design and brushless motor make it a logical choice for tradespeople and serious DIYers who prioritize control and stamina over brute size.

At under two pounds, this Bosch drill driver delivers up to 400 inch-pounds of torque, providing professional-grade power in a package that’s easy to handle all day. Its compact head length of 6.3 inches allows for easy control in tight spaces where bulkier drills simply won’t fit. The brushless motor efficiently converts battery power into runtime and consistent performance.

Best for: Tradespeople and advanced DIYers who need maximum torque in a minimal, fatigue-fighting package for all-day use in tight quarters. Not ideal for users who only need a drill for very light, occasional tasks where a more compact 12V system would suffice.
#6Best Combo Kit

Makita CT225SYX Compact Combo Kit

Makita CT225SYX Compact Combo Kit
Driver-Drill Length7-1/4 inches
Driver-Drill Weight3.3 lbs with battery
Driver-Drill Max Torque480 in. lbs
Impact Driver Weight2.8 lbs with battery
Impact Driver Max Torque1,460 in. lbs
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What We Like

  • Compact two-tool combo kit with battery and charger
  • Driver-drill offers two-speed gearbox (0-1,900 RPM)
  • Impact driver delivers high torque for fasteners
  • Ergonomic handles with rubberized soft grips

Trade-offs

  • 1.5Ah battery capacity may require more frequent swaps on large projects
  • Kit footprint is larger than a single-tool purchase

This kit delivers a complete 18-volt system with a compact drill and a potent impact driver, both designed to fight fatigue. The driver-drill’s 480 in-lbs of torque handles most drilling and driving tasks, while the impact driver’s 1,460 in-lbs is serious muscle for lag bolts and deck screws. It’s the right pick for anyone starting a tool collection or needing a matched pair for general construction and remodeling, as you get two capable tools that share batteries without the bulk of full-sized kits.

This kit delivers two capable cordless tools in a single, portable package. The included 1/2″ driver-drill is 7-1/4 inches long, which is compact enough for most tasks but may not fit into the very tightest spaces that a dedicated sub-compact drill could reach. For general construction, assembly, and repair work, however, the Makita combo provides a practical balance of power and portability that’s easy to transport.

Best for: The builder or renovator needing a balanced, capable two-tool set for all-day use. Not ideal for the user who exclusively works in ultra-tight spaces and prioritizes the absolute minimum tool size.
#7Best Compact Combo

DeWalt DCK240C2 Drill and Impact Combo

DeWalt DCK240C2 Drill and Impact Combo
Weight (kit)3.6 lbs
Impact driver length5.55 in.
Drill/driver length7.5 in.
Chuck types1/2" ratcheting & 1/4" hex
Warranty3 Year Limited
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What We Like

  • Compact tools for tight spaces
  • Integrated LED lights with 20-second delay
  • One-handed bit loading on impact driver
  • Includes two batteries and a charger

Trade-offs

  • Drill driver weighs 3.6 lbs, heavier than some sub-compacts
  • Kit footprint is larger than tool-only options

With a 5.55-inch impact driver and a 7.5-inch drill, this DeWalt combo fits into tight spots like inside cabinets or between wall studs. The one-handed bit loading on the impact driver and the secure ratcheting chuck on the drill allow for quick transitions between drilling and driving tasks. Each tool has an integrated LED work light with a 20-second delay for visibility in dim areas.

The drill driver weighs 3.6 pounds, which is more than some dedicated compact models like the 2.0-pound Makita XFD15ZB. Both the drill and the 2.8-pound impact driver are described as compact and lightweight for reaching difficult spaces. The entire kit is packaged in a bag with two batteries and a charger under a three-year limited warranty.

Best for: Users needing a compact drill and impact driver combo for confined spaces.

Product photos

#8Best 12V Compact

Milwaukee M12 Subcompact Brushless Drill

Milwaukee M12 Subcompact Brushless Drill
Voltage12V
Weight1.6 pounds
Chuck Type3/8" metal keyless
Clutch Settings12 settings
Motor TypeBrushless
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What We Like

  • Extremely lightweight at 1.6 pounds.
  • Brushless motor prevents overloads and overheating.
  • Durable 3/8" metal keyless chuck.
  • 12 clutch settings for precise screwdriving control.

Trade-offs

  • 12V system lacks the raw power of 18V/20V models for heavy tasks.
  • Compact size trades off leverage for high-torque applications.

Weighing just 1.6 pounds, this drill disappears in your hand, making it a dream for overhead work or all-day use in tight spaces. That’s the core appeal of the Milwaukee M12 Subcompact. It’s built for electricians, HVAC techs, and maintenance pros who need a reliable driver for fasteners and small bore holes, not for framing decks. The brushless motor and metal chuck deliver professional-grade durability in a package that fits easily in a tool pouch.

This 12-volt drill weighs just 1.6 pounds, making it easy to handle overhead or in tight spaces where a heavier tool would cause fatigue. Its brushless motor is designed to prevent overloads and overheating during extended use. With 12 clutch settings, it offers precise control for driving screws without stripping them, a feature professionals like electricians and HVAC technicians value.

Best for: Tradespeople and serious DIYers who prioritize minimal weight and compact size for detailed work and tight spaces. Not ideal for users who regularly need to drill large-diameter holes in dense material.
#9Best for Tight Spaces

Bosch 12V FlexiClick Drill Driver

Bosch 12V FlexiClick Drill Driver
Weight1.4 pounds
Dimensions5.2 x 2.0 x 7.0 inches
Battery system12V Max (2 included)
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What We Like

  • Ultra-compact size at just 1.4 pounds
  • Right angle head rotates to 16 positions
  • LED light with 10-second afterglow

Trade-offs

  • 12V system lacks raw power for heavy-duty drilling
  • Shortest head length still longer than a true screwdriver

At just 5.2 inches long and 1.4 pounds, this drill disappears in your hand. It’s an obvious choice for anyone wrestling with cabinetry, electrical boxes, or furniture assembly where a full-size drill simply won’t fit. The included right-angle and offset attachments let you drive screws in corners or flush against a wall without stripping your knuckles. It’s a specialist’s tool, perfect for finish work and light-duty tasks where precision and access trump sheer driving force.

Bosch’s 12V FlexiClick centers on a modular system for tight spaces, not raw power. Its five attachments include a keyless chuck for drilling, a right-angle head for cabinets, and an offset adapter for near-edge screws. A magnetic bit holder provides the shortest setup for basic driving, and a locking holder secures hex bits during high-torque work. The one-click interface makes swapping these heads fast and secure, while a built-in LED light illuminates dark corners with a 10-second afterglow.

Best for: Finish carpenters, electricians, and DIYers working in confined spaces like cabinets and built-ins. Not ideal for heavy framing, masonry, or drilling large-diameter holes.

Product photos

#10Best Ultra-Lightweight DIY

DEKOPRO 8V Cordless Drill

DEKOPRO 8V Cordless Drill
Weight1.65 lb
Voltage8V
Max Speed800 RPM
Chuck Size3/8" keyless
Charge PortType-C cable
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What We Like

  • Remarkably light at just 1.65 pounds
  • Includes a comprehensive 42-piece accessory kit
  • Features a convenient built-in LED light
  • Forward/reverse switch with lock-off safety

Trade-offs

  • 8V motor is not suitable for masonry or concrete
  • Maximum speed of 800 RPM limits material removal rate

Weighing only 1.65 pounds, this drill is designed for comfort over long periods of use, making it exceptionally easy to handle with one hand. Its 8V motor and 800 RPM top speed are tuned for basic DIY tasks like assembling furniture, hanging pictures, or drilling into softwoods and plastics. The included 42-piece kit means you have the right driver bit or drill bit for most common household jobs right out of the box. This is a huge convenience for casual users who don’t own a toolbox full of accessories.

A featherweight design like this means you give up some power. You won’t be drilling into concrete or driving large lag bolts into dense framing lumber. For those heavier-duty projects, you’d want to step up to an 18V or 20V platform like the DeWalt DCD777B. But for its intended audience, someone tackling light repairs and simple builds, the DEKOPRO delivers a focused, user-friendly package. The Type-C charging is a modern touch that simplifies powering up, and the built-in LED is genuinely useful for working in dim corners under a sink or in a closet.

Best for: DIYers and homeowners who prioritize comfort and simplicity for light-duty tasks like furniture assembly and hanging shelves. Not ideal for construction, renovation, or drilling into hard materials.

Product photos

How We Evaluated Lightweight Cordless Drills

Our research focused on specifications, manufacturer documentation, and trends from professional tool reviews and owner reports. We prioritized three key criteria: weight and physical size for maneuverability, motor type and voltage for capable performance, and ergonomics for all-day comfort and control. This is a research-led evaluation, so we cannot speak to long-term durability from personal testing, but we highlighted models consistently praised for their build quality and efficient design in our comprehensive lightweight drill guide.

What To Look For In Lightweight Cordless Drills

Choosing a lightweight drill means finding the right trade-off between heft and capability. The goal is a tool you can use comfortably in tight spots without sacrificing the power needed for your typical projects.

Look for a compact, brushless motor drill within a comfortable weight range (often 2-3 lbs). Consider if you need a complete kit or a “tool-only” model to match an existing battery platform, and prioritize an ergonomic grip.

Weight and Size

Weight is the primary factor for reducing fatigue, especially for overhead tasks or long sessions. Many top models hover between 1.6 and 3 pounds without a battery. Size, particularly the “head length” from chuck to back, determines how well a drill fits into tight spaces like between studs or inside cabinets. Our list includes several models under 6 inches long from our best compact cordless drills. Remember, the battery adds weight and bulk, so a compact 12V battery can make a system feel even lighter than an 18V tool.

Power and Voltage

Voltage (12V, 18V, 20V Max) is a general indicator of potential power, but a brushless motor makes any voltage more efficient. A 12V brushless drill can often outperform an older 18V brushed model. For general DIY and professional fastening, 12V to 20V systems offer ample power. If you regularly drill large holes in dense wood or need a hammer function for masonry, an 18V/20V platform is wiser. Our research on 12V vs 18V tools can help you decide.

Features and Ergonomics

An ergonomic, rubberized grip is crucial for control and comfort. An integrated LED light with a delay is invaluable for illuminating dark work areas. Consider if you need multiple speed settings for precise screwdriving or a hammer drill function for masonry. Also, decide between a keyless chuck for quick bit changes or a hex collet for even faster bit swaps on dedicated drivers.

  • Check if the kit includes a battery and charger, or if you’re buying a “tool-only” model.
  • Ensure the grip feels balanced in your hand to reduce strain.
  • Look for a built-in belt clip for convenience.
  • Consider a right-angle attachment if you frequently work in extremely confined spaces.

Your most-used drill should feel like an extension of your hand, not a burden.

Lightweight Cordless Drills Compared

The following table compares key specifications across our top picks to help you see the differences at a glance.

ProductWeightChuck SizeMotor Type
DeWalt 20V MAX DCD777B Cordless Drill2.6 pounds1/2 inchBrushless
Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless Drill Driver2.3 pounds1/2 INCHBrushless
Makita XFD15ZB Sub-Compact Drill Driver2.0 Pounds1/2 inchBrushless
AVID POWER 20V Cordless Drill Set3.6 pounds3/8" keylessN/A
Bosch GSR18V-400B22 Compact Drill Driver2.0 pounds1/2 In.Brushless
Makita CT225SYX Compact Combo Kit3.3 lbs with battery1/2"N/A
DeWalt DCK240C2 Drill and Impact Combo3.6 Pounds1/2" ratchetingN/A
Milwaukee M12 Subcompact Brushless Drill1.6 pounds3/8" metal keylessBrushless
Bosch 12V FlexiClick Drill Driver1.4 poundsN/AN/A
DEKOPRO 8V Cordless Drill1.65 lb3/8" keylessN/A

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the lightest and most powerful cordless drill?

Power and weight are often a trade-off. Among full-power 18V/20V options, the Bosch GSR18V-400B22 is noted for its exceptional power density at just 2.0 pounds. For the absolute lightest capable tool, the 1.6-pound Milwaukee M12 Subcompact Brushless Drill delivers solid performance for a 12V system, though it lacks the raw power of higher-voltage models for heavy tasks.

What are some good lightweight cordless drills?

Good lightweight drills balance capable performance with comfortable handling. Our list includes excellent options across needs: the DeWalt DCD777B for a full-featured compact tool, the Makita XFD15ZB for a durable sub-compact, and the DEKOPRO 8V for ultra-light DIY tasks. You can explore more in our guide to the best cordless drills.

What’s the best cordless drill for the money?

Value means getting the features you need at a fair price. The AVID POWER 20V Cordless Drill Set offers strong value as a complete kit with many accessories, ideal for new homeowners. For professionals seeking long-term value through platform compatibility, a “tool-only” model like the Makita XFD15ZB that shares batteries with other tools can be a smart investment.

What is the best cordless drill for value for money?

Similar to the question above, value is context-dependent. For a user needing two versatile tools, the Makita CT225SYX Compact Combo Kit provides a drill and impact driver with batteries at a mid-range price point. For a single, highly capable tool that won’t break the bank, the DeWalt DCD777B is a consistently well-regarded choice in our guide to the best cordless drill drivers.

Should I get a drill or an impact driver for light work?

For driving many screws or working with long fasteners, an impact driver is more efficient and reduces wrist strain. For drilling holes and general-purpose use, a standard drill driver is more versatile. Many users find a compact combo kit, like the DeWalt DCK240C2, offers the best of both worlds. Our resource on the difference between screwdriver and drill explains this in more detail.

The Bottom Line

The DeWalt 20V MAX DCD777B is our best overall lightweight cordless drill, ideal for the DIYer or pro who wants a capable, compact tool for everyday drilling and driving without excessive weight. If your primary concern is budget or you’re just starting out, the ready-to-use AVID POWER 20V Cordless Drill Set is a smart first purchase. For tradespeople who live in tight spaces, the award for Best for Tight Spaces goes to the remarkably versatile Bosch 12V FlexiClick Drill Driver.

Ultimately, the right drill is the one you’ll use comfortably and confidently. Prioritize a tool that fits your hand and your workspace, and the rest of the job becomes much easier.