Cordless Drills: Where Expert Reviews Converge—and Where They Don't

We analyzed 9 expert sources testing 25+ drill models. The results reveal a fundamental split between quantitative testing and editorial recommendations.

Three Key Takeaways

•FLEX FX1271T wins every quantitative test (Pro Tool Reviews, Project Farm, Torque Test Channel), yet editorial sources don't mention it at all
•Price tier matters more than brand: Budget ($44-$99), homeowner ($160-$220), and professional ($200-$400+) tiers answer different buyer questions
•DeWalt and Milwaukee dominate editorial picks, but for different reasons than performance alone—ecosystem lock-in and brand familiarity drive recommendations

The Price Tier Map

Expert recommendations segment cleanly into three distinct tiers, each answering a different buyer question.

Budget / Entry-Level: $44-$99

Target audience: Occasional DIY, first-time buyers, light home use

Top pick: DeWalt DCD771C2 ($99, brushed motor)

Source: This Old House

The tension: Family Handyman explicitly warns against brushed motors in 2025, creating a motor technology disagreement within the budget tier. This Old House argues brushed motors are acceptable for occasional use; Family Handyman counters that brushless is now standard and worth the extra $70.

Alternative: Black+Decker 20V ($44) for absolute minimum budget

Mid-Tier / Homeowner: $160-$220

Target audience: Regular DIY, homeowners, weekend warriors

Wirecutter: DeWalt DCD701F2 (12V, $149)

"Best drill for most people"

Family Handyman: DeWalt DCD777C2 (20V, $169)

"Best value for homeowners"

Popular Mechanics: Milwaukee M18 Compact models ($180-$220)

The tension: Wirecutter prioritizes 12V compact drills for weight and ergonomics, while Family Handyman argues 20V provides necessary power headroom without significant size penalty. Both are right for their target use cases—Wirecutter optimizes for hanging pictures and assembling furniture; Family Handyman optimizes for deck building and home repairs.

Key decision: Do you need to drill into concrete or drive 3-inch screws regularly? If yes, go 20V. If no, 12V saves weight and money.

Premium / Professional: $200-$400+

Target audience: Professional contractors, serious enthusiasts, power users

Quantitative testing consensus: FLEX FX1271T (24V, $250-$300)

• Pro Tool Reviews: #1 (95 points)
• Project Farm: #1 (2.3 average ranking, "Best drill I've ever tested")
• Torque Test Channel: #1 (875.6 score, 1020W sustained power, 103 ft-lbs peak torque)

Editorial alternatives:

• ToolGuyd: DeWalt DCD996 (20V, 3-speed, $199)
• Pro Tool Reviews: DeWalt DCD1007 (20V, $289) ranks #3
• Popular Mechanics: Milwaukee 2904 (M18 Gen 4, $229) — "Best Overall"

The paradox: FLEX wins every quantitative test, yet Wirecutter, Popular Mechanics, Family Handyman, ToolGuyd, and This Old House don't mention it at all.

The FLEX Paradox: Why Quantitative Winners Don't Become Editorial Picks

FLEX FX1271T achieves unanimous #1 ranking across all three quantitative testing sources (Pro Tool Reviews 95 points, Project Farm 2.3 average, Torque Test Channel 1020W sustained power), yet is completely absent from editorial recommendations. Three likely explanations:

1. Retail Availability and Brand Inertia

FLEX is primarily sold at Lowe's and online, while DeWalt and Milwaukee have ubiquitous presence at Home Depot, Lowe's, Ace Hardware, and independent retailers. Editorial sources may prioritize brands readers can easily find and compare in-store. Additionally, DeWalt and Milwaukee have decades of brand recognition; FLEX is a relative newcomer (launched 2017) despite being owned by Chervon, the same parent company as SKIL and Flex Tools.

Evidence: Wirecutter explicitly mentions "DeWalt ecosystem compatibility" as a key factor. ToolGuyd discusses "Milwaukee ecosystem alternative." Neither mentions FLEX ecosystem at all.

2. Battery Configuration Assumptions

Torque Test Channel's testing reveals FLEX's performance varies significantly with battery choice—standard 4Ah battery delivers good performance, but 6Ah Stacked battery in "Turbo mode" unlocks maximum capability (103 ft-lbs peak torque, 1020W sustained power). Editorial sources may test with standard batteries, missing FLEX's full potential.

Evidence: Torque Test Channel explicitly tests multiple battery configurations; Project Farm tests "as shipped" configurations; editorial sources don't specify battery testing methodology.

3. Methodology Mismatch: Measurable Performance vs. Use-Case Fit

Quantitative testing prioritizes measurable performance (peak torque, sustained power output in watts, speed, drilling depth). Editorial sources prioritize qualitative factors (ergonomics, ecosystem compatibility, brand familiarity, retail availability, warranty support).

The result: FLEX wins on raw numbers but may not win on "total ownership experience" factors that editorial sources weight heavily.

Decision Framework by Buyer Persona

Budget-Conscious DIYer ($44-$99)

Your question: "What's the cheapest drill that won't break immediately?"

Our synthesis: DeWalt DCD771C2 ($99, brushed motor) if you accept that brushed motors are acceptable for occasional use. Black+Decker 20V ($44) if you need absolute minimum budget. Wait for brushless models to drop below $100 if you can—Family Handyman's warning about brushed motors in 2025 is valid for longevity.

The tension: This Old House recommends brushed; Family Handyman warns against it. We lean toward Family Handyman's position—brushless motors last longer and deliver more power per battery charge, making them worth the extra $70 for anyone planning to use the drill more than once a month.

Homeowner / Weekend Warrior ($160-$220)

Your question: "What drill handles 90% of home projects without overkill?"

Our synthesis: DeWalt DCD777C2 (20V, $169) for most people. It's brushless, compact, has sufficient power for deck screws and light drilling, and integrates into the DeWalt 20V ecosystem if you later buy an impact driver or circular saw.

Go 12V instead (Wirecutter's pick, DCD701F2, $149) if you prioritize weight and ergonomics over power, and your projects are primarily furniture assembly, picture hanging, and light repairs.

Upgrade to 3-speed (DeWalt DCD800, $219) if you drill into masonry regularly or drive 3-inch screws frequently—the extra speed range provides more versatility.

The Milwaukee alternative: Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless ($180-$220) is equally good if you're already in the Milwaukee ecosystem or prefer their ergonomics. Performance is comparable; choose based on existing battery platform.

Professional / Power User ($200-$400+)

Your question: "What drill delivers maximum performance for daily professional use?"

Our synthesis: This is where the FLEX paradox matters most.

If you prioritize raw performance and don't mind buying into a newer ecosystem: FLEX FX1271T (24V, $250-$300 with 6Ah Stacked battery) is the quantitative winner. It delivers the highest sustained power (1020W), highest peak torque (103 ft-lbs), and fastest speed in testing. Lifetime warranty is a strong value proposition.

If you prioritize ecosystem compatibility and retail availability: DeWalt DCD996 or DCD1007 (20V, 3-speed, $199-$289) or Milwaukee 2904 (M18 Gen 4, $229). These integrate into established battery platforms, have ubiquitous retail presence, and deliver 85-90% of FLEX's performance.

The Makita wildcard: Makita XGT GPH01Z (40V, $300+) ranks #2 in Torque Test Channel testing (838.6 score, 1000W sustained power) and #3 in Project Farm testing (strongest chuck grip at 218 in-lbs). If you're already in the Makita ecosystem or value their ergonomics, this is a strong contender that editorial sources largely ignore.

Our take: FLEX wins on performance, but DeWalt/Milwaukee win on ecosystem and availability. Choose FLEX if you're starting fresh or willing to switch ecosystems for 10-15% better performance. Choose DeWalt/Milwaukee if you already own batteries or value retail ubiquity.

Where Experts Agree

Despite the FLEX paradox and price tier segmentation, experts converge on several key points:

1.Brushless motors are now standard (all sources except This Old House budget pick)
2.Battery ecosystem lock-in is a major factor (all sources mention ecosystem compatibility)
3.Three-speed transmission provides versatility (ToolGuyd, Pro Tool Reviews, Family Handyman advanced/pro pick)
4.Compact drills are sufficient for homeowners (Wirecutter, Family Handyman, Popular Mechanics)
5.Full-size drills are necessary for professionals (Pro Tool Reviews, Torque Test Channel, Project Farm)

Where Experts Diverge (and Why It Matters)

Milwaukee 2904 Positioning

• Popular Mechanics: "Best Overall"
• Pro Tool Reviews: #5 (85 points)
• Project Farm: #2 (highest raw torque at 455 in-lbs)
• Torque Test Channel: Used as baseline (not competitive winner)

Why the disagreement: Milwaukee excels in peak torque (455 in-lbs, highest tested) but doesn't win on sustained power output (watts) or overall average performance. Popular Mechanics may weight peak torque heavily; Pro Tool Reviews weights sustained performance and features; Torque Test Channel prioritizes watts under load.

What this means for you: If you need maximum stall torque for driving large lag bolts or drilling large holes, Milwaukee 2904 is the pick. If you need sustained power for continuous drilling or driving, FLEX or Makita may be better.

DeWalt Model Fragmentation

DeWalt has the widest product line, creating confusion about which model is "best":

• 12V: DCD701F2 (Wirecutter top pick)
• 20V 2-speed: DCD777C2 (Family Handyman), DCD791 (Wirecutter, Popular Mechanics), DCD771C2 (This Old House, brushed)
• 20V 3-speed: DCD996 (ToolGuyd top pick), DCD998 (Torque Test Channel), DCD800 (Family Handyman advanced/pro), DCD999 (Popular Mechanics pro pick), DCD1007 (Pro Tool Reviews #3)

Why the fragmentation: DeWalt segments its product line more granularly than Milwaukee or FLEX, offering 2-speed vs. 3-speed, compact vs. full-size, and multiple power tiers within 20V. This provides more choice but creates confusion.

What this means for you: Don't get paralyzed by DeWalt model numbers. The key decision is 12V vs. 20V (power tier) and 2-speed vs. 3-speed (versatility). Within those categories, performance differences are marginal.

2-Speed vs. 3-Speed Transmission

• Family Handyman: DeWalt DCD777C2 (2-speed, $169) top pick for most people
• ToolGuyd: DeWalt DCD996 (3-speed, $199) top pick overall
• Pro Tool Reviews: FLEX FX1271T (3-speed + Turbo, $279) winner

Why the disagreement: 2-speed drills offer low gear (high torque, 0-450 RPM) and high gear (high speed, 0-1,500 RPM). 3-speed drills add a middle gear (0-1,250 RPM) for versatility. The question is whether that middle gear is worth $30-$50 extra.

What this means for you: If you drill into masonry regularly or drive 3-inch screws frequently, 3-speed provides more control. If your projects are primarily wood drilling and 1.5-inch screws, 2-speed is sufficient.

Drill Comparison Table

All drill models substantively mentioned in our analysis, organized by price tier and performance characteristics.

Model	Voltage	Price	Motor	Speed	Key Sources	Best For
Budget / Entry-Level ($44-$99)
Black+Decker 20V	20V	$44	Brushed	2-speed	This Old House	Absolute minimum budget, occasional use
DeWalt DCD771C2	20V	$99	Brushed	2-speed	This Old House (top pick)	Budget buyers accepting brushed motor trade-off
Mid-Tier / Homeowner ($160-$220)
DeWalt DCD701F2	12V	$149	Brushless	2-speed	Wirecutter (top pick)	Light home use, weight-sensitive buyers
DeWalt DCD777C2	20V	$169	Brushless	2-speed	Family Handyman (top pick)	Most homeowners, best value
DeWalt DCD791	20V	$179	Brushless	2-speed	Wirecutter, Popular Mechanics	Compact alternative to DCD777C2
Milwaukee M18 Compact	18V	$180-$220	Brushless	2-speed	Popular Mechanics, Wirecutter	Milwaukee ecosystem users
DeWalt DCD800	20V	$219	Brushless	3-speed	Family Handyman (advanced pick)	Homeowners needing extra versatility
Premium / Professional ($200-$400+)
FLEX FX1271T	24V	$250-$300	Brushless	3-speed + Turbo	Pro Tool Reviews (#1), Project Farm (#1), Torque Test Channel (#1)	Maximum performance, quantitative winner
DeWalt DCD996	20V	$199	Brushless	3-speed	ToolGuyd (top pick)	DeWalt ecosystem, best value 3-speed
DeWalt DCD998	20V	$229	Brushless	3-speed	Torque Test Channel	DeWalt premium option
Milwaukee 2904 (M18 Gen 4)	18V	$229	Brushless	2-speed	Popular Mechanics (Best Overall), Pro Tool Reviews (#5), Project Farm (#2)	Highest peak torque (455 in-lbs)
DeWalt DCD999	20V	$279	Brushless	3-speed	Popular Mechanics (pro pick)	DeWalt top-tier professional
DeWalt DCD1007	20V	$289	Brushless	3-speed	Pro Tool Reviews (#3)	DeWalt premium with advanced features
Makita XGT GPH01Z	40V	$300+	Brushless	2-speed	Torque Test Channel (#2), Project Farm (#3)	Makita ecosystem, 1000W sustained power

Table Notes:

• Prices are approximate and may vary by retailer and promotions
• FLEX FX1271T highlighted as quantitative testing consensus winner
• Milwaukee 2904 has highest peak torque (455 in-lbs) but not highest sustained power
• Makita XGT GPH01Z ranks #2 in dyno testing but largely absent from editorial recommendations
• DeWalt model fragmentation creates confusion—focus on voltage (12V vs 20V) and speed (2-speed vs 3-speed) as key decision factors

Our Verdict (If You're Buying Today)

We don't declare a single "best drill" because the right choice depends on your use case, budget, and existing battery ecosystem. But here's our synthesis:

For most homeowners:

DeWalt DCD777C2 (20V, 2-speed, brushless, $169). It's the sweet spot of power, weight, price, and ecosystem compatibility. Sufficient for 90% of home projects, integrates into DeWalt 20V platform, and widely available.

For professionals prioritizing performance:

FLEX FX1271T (24V, 3-speed + Turbo, $250-$300 with 6Ah Stacked battery). It wins every quantitative test and delivers 10-15% better sustained power than DeWalt/Milwaukee. Lifetime warranty offsets ecosystem risk.

For professionals prioritizing ecosystem:

DeWalt DCD996 or DCD1007 (20V, 3-speed, $199-$289) if you're in DeWalt ecosystem; Milwaukee 2904 (M18 Gen 4, $229) if you're in Milwaukee ecosystem. Performance is 85-90% of FLEX, but ecosystem compatibility and retail availability provide long-term value.

For budget-conscious buyers:

Wait for DeWalt DCD777C2 to drop below $150 on sale, or buy DeWalt DCD771C2 ($99, brushed) if you accept shorter lifespan for occasional use.

The wildcard:

Makita XGT GPH01Z (40V, $300+) if you're already in Makita ecosystem. It ranks #2 in dyno testing and delivers 1000W sustained power, but editorial sources largely ignore it. Worth considering if you value Makita ergonomics and already own XGT batteries.

Methodology: How We Aggregated Expert Reviews

We systematically extracted drill mentions, endorsement strength, reasoning signals, and disagreement patterns from 9 comprehensive expert sources:

Editorial / Institutional (7 sources)

Wirecutter (New York Times) — Comprehensive testing, homeowner focus
Pro Tool Reviews — Professional contractor testing with quantitative scoring
Popular Mechanics — Consumer testing across price tiers
Fine Homebuilding — Paywalled content (limited extraction)
ToolGuyd — Enthusiast/prosumer focus, detailed analysis
This Old House — Budget/entry-level testing
Family Handyman — Mid-tier homeowner recommendations

YouTube – Tool Testing / Reviews (2 sources)

Project Farm — Rigorous quantitative testing (11 drills, 7 metrics: chuck grip, torque, speed, drilling depth, noise, RPM)
Torque Test Channel — Professional dyno testing (peak torque, sustained power in watts)

Sources Excluded (8 of 17 Curated)

We excluded Tool Review Zone, WorkshopAddict, Tools & Stuff, Concord Carpenter, Essential Craftsman, Perkins Builder Brothers, Finish Carpentry TV, and VCG Construction because they focus on brand-vs-brand comparisons, individual reviews, or educational content rather than comprehensive "best drill" roundups. Including these sources would dilute signal quality rather than strengthen it.

What We Captured

For each source, we extracted:

Source metadata: Type, date, testing methodology, sponsorship disclosure, target audience
Drill models mentioned: Exact brand and model, endorsement strength (mentioned / recommended / top pick / conditional pick)
Reasoning signals: Primary positives cited, primary negatives cited, conditional language
Disagreement indicators: Whether this source's recommendation conflicts with others, what dimension the disagreement appears to be on
Specs referenced: Torque, RPM, tool weight, battery platform, performance claims

What We Didn't Do

We didn't rank drills ourselves — we captured how experts rank them
We didn't assign scores — we reported the scores experts assigned
We didn't collapse mentions into conclusions — we preserved the nuance of conditional recommendations
We didn't declare a winner in the headline — we revealed convergence and divergence patterns first, then synthesized guidance by buyer persona

Sources

Last updated: January 2026

Aggregation time: ~90 minutes across 9 sources

Total drill models captured: 25+

This is a meta-review, not a product review. We don't test drills ourselves—we analyze how experts test them and where their conclusions converge or diverge. Our goal is to help you understand the expert landscape, not to replace it.