Ever felt overwhelmed staring at aisles packed with drill bits? You’re not alone! Picking the perfect combo drill set can feel like a guessing game. You need a set that can handle everything from hanging a picture frame to building that birdhouse you’ve been dreaming about. But with so many bits and sizes, how do you know which one is truly going to get the job done without breaking the bank or your drill?
This confusion can lead to frustration and wasted money. You might end up with bits that are too small, too weak, or simply not the right type for your project. That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of combo drill sets. We’ll break down what makes a good set, what to look for, and how to choose the one that will be your reliable go-to tool for years to come.
By the end of this post, you’ll have the confidence to choose a combo drill set that fits your needs perfectly, saving you time and hassle. Let’s get drilling!
Our Top 5 Combo Drill Set Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Combo Drill Set Detailed Reviews
1. DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver
Rating: 8.5/10
Tackle your DIY projects with confidence using the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit. This powerful duo, model DCK240C2, comes with two batteries and a charger, giving you the freedom to work without being tied to an outlet. It’s designed for both beginners and experienced DIYers, making common tasks easier and faster.
What We Like:
- The drill has a two-speed transmission, letting you switch between 0-450 RPM and 0-1500 RPM for different jobs.
- It delivers 300 unit watts out of power, strong enough for most home tasks.
- Both the drill and impact driver are compact and lightweight, fitting easily into tight spaces.
- The drill’s 1/2-inch chuck grips bits securely.
- The ergonomic handle on the drill makes it comfortable to hold and control.
- The impact driver is small (5.55 inches front to back) and light (2.8 lbs), making it easy to handle.
- Its one-handed loading chuck accepts 1-inch bit tips.
- The impact driver has three LED lights that stay on for 20 seconds, so you can see clearly without shadows.
What Could Be Improved:
- While powerful, the drill’s maximum speed might be limiting for very demanding professional jobs.
- The included batteries are a good starting point, but serious users might want to consider purchasing extra batteries for longer work sessions.
This DEWALT kit is a solid choice for anyone looking for reliable cordless tools. It offers a great balance of power, comfort, and convenience for home improvement tasks.
2. DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill
Rating: 9.0/10
Tackle any project with the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver combo kit. This two-tool set is built for power and convenience, making it a go-to for DIYers and professionals alike. The kit includes two batteries and a charger, so you’re always ready to get to work.
What We Like:
- The drill is super compact, measuring only 7.6 inches front to back. This makes it easy to use in tight spaces.
- It’s also lightweight, which helps reduce fatigue during long jobs.
- The comfort grip gives you a good feel and control over the tools.
- A bright LED light with a 20-second delay helps you see better in dark areas.
- The variable speed trigger lets you adjust how fast the drill spins for precise work.
- Changing bits is a breeze thanks to the quick-release hex chuck.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the LED light is helpful, some users might prefer it to stay on longer.
- The kit’s price point might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
This DEWALT combo kit offers impressive power in a user-friendly package. It’s a solid investment for anyone needing reliable drilling and driving capabilities.
3. CRAFTSMAN V20 MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver
Rating: 9.4/10
Tackle your DIY projects with ease using the CRAFTSMAN V20 MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit. This powerful duo is designed to handle a variety of tasks, from drilling holes to driving screws. With two batteries and a charger included, you’ll have the power you need to get the job done.
What We Like:
- The drill offers 280 UWO of power for tough jobs.
- It has a two-speed gearbox (0-350 RPM and 0-1,500 RPM) for different tasks.
- The impact driver delivers a strong 1,460 in-lbs. of torque at 2,800 RPM and 3,100 BPM for heavy-duty work.
- Changing bits on the impact driver is super easy with its one-handed drop and load feature.
- Both tools have bright LED lights to help you see better in dimly lit areas.
- Their compact designs and comfy handles make them easy to use, even in tight spaces.
What Could Be Improved:
- The power of the drill might not be enough for extremely demanding professional applications.
- While the impact driver is strong, some users might prefer even higher RPMs for certain tasks.
This CRAFTSMAN combo kit offers great value and performance for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing reliable cordless tools.
4. DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver and 1/4 in. Impact Driver Kit with (2) 2Ah Batteries & Charger (DCK248D2)
Rating: 8.9/10
Tackle your projects with the DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Cordless Drill/Driver and Impact Driver Kit. This two-tool combo gives you the power and control you need for a wide range of tasks, from drilling into tough materials to driving screws quickly and efficiently. With two 2Ah batteries and a charger included, you’ll have the power to keep going until the job is done.
What We Like:
- The drill’s compact size (6.37 inches) lets you reach tight spots easily.
- A metal ratcheting chuck holds drill bits securely.
- The bright LED light on the drill helps you see in dark areas, and the spotlight mode is handy for extended work.
- The impact driver’s Precision Drive in speed 1 stops you from overtightening screws.
- Three speed settings on the impact driver give you great control for different jobs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 2Ah batteries might not last as long for very demanding, continuous work.
- The kit doesn’t include a carrying case for storage and transport.
This DEWALT kit is a solid choice for both DIYers and professionals. It offers a great balance of power, features, and convenience for many common building and repair tasks.
5. M12 Drill/Impact Combo Kit – Milwaukee 2494-22
Rating: 9.5/10
Tackle your DIY projects with the Milwaukee 2494-22 M12 Drill/Impact Combo Kit. This two-tool set gives you the power and versatility you need for a variety of tasks around the house or in the workshop. You get both a handy drill/driver and a powerful impact driver, all powered by Milwaukee’s reliable M12 battery system.
What We Like:
- Both the drill/driver and impact driver deliver a solid 275 inch-pounds of torque, meaning they can handle tough jobs.
- The on-board battery fuel gauges are super helpful. They show you exactly how much charge is left, so you’re never caught off guard.
- The new ergonomic handle design makes these tools comfortable to hold and use, even for longer periods.
- The metal ratcheting chuck on the drill/driver adds a lot of durability. It keeps the bits secure and lasts a long time.
- The drill/driver offers two speed settings (0-400 and 0-1500 RPM) for different kinds of work.
- The impact driver spins fast at 0-2,500 RPM and delivers 0-3,300 impacts per minute (IPM), making quick work of driving screws.
What Could Be Improved:
- While powerful for their size, these M12 tools might not be enough for very heavy-duty professional construction work.
- The kit only comes with one battery, which can be a limitation if you need to work for extended periods without recharging.
This Milwaukee M12 combo kit is a fantastic option for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. It offers good power and convenient features in a compact package.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Combo Drill Set
What is a Combo Drill Set?
A combo drill set is a handy tool kit. It usually has a drill and often a driver. It might also come with extra batteries, a charger, and bits for drilling and screwing. These sets are great for DIY projects around the house or for professionals.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a combo drill set, keep these important things in mind.
Power and Speed
- Voltage: Drills come in different voltages, like 12V, 18V, and 20V. Higher voltage means more power. For tough jobs, a higher voltage is better.
- RPM (Revolutions Per Minute): This tells you how fast the drill spins. More RPMs help you drill faster. Look for variable speed settings so you can control the speed.
Battery Life and Type
- Battery Voltage: Match this to your drill’s voltage.
- Battery Capacity (Ah – Amp Hours): A higher Ah means the battery lasts longer. If you have big projects, get batteries with more Ah.
- Battery Type: Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are the best. They are lighter and hold a charge longer than older types.
Drill Type
- Hammer Drill Function: Some drills have a hammer action. This is useful for drilling into hard materials like concrete or brick.
- Chuck Size: This is the part that holds the drill bit. Most drills have a 1/2-inch chuck, which is good for most jobs.
Included Accessories
Good sets come with useful extras. Check if it includes:
- Drill bits for wood and metal.
- Screwdriver bits for different screw types.
- A carrying case to keep everything organized.
2. Important Materials
The parts of a drill set are made from different materials. These affect how strong and long-lasting the tool is.
- Drill Body: Most are made of strong plastic, often reinforced. This keeps them light.
- Chuck: Metal chucks are more durable than plastic ones. They grip bits better.
- Motor: Brushless motors are more efficient and last longer than brushed motors.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a drill set great, while others can make it not so good.
What Makes a Set Better
- Brushless Motor: As mentioned, these give more power and last longer.
- Good Battery Management: Smart batteries protect themselves from overheating and overcharging.
- Ergonomic Design: A comfortable grip and balanced weight make it easier to use for long periods.
- Solid Construction: Tools that feel sturdy and well-made usually last longer.
What Can Make a Set Lower Quality
- Plastic Chucks: These can break or slip easily.
- Cheap Batteries: Batteries that don’t hold a charge or die quickly are frustrating.
- Overheating: If the drill gets too hot quickly, it might not be built for heavy use.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you use a combo drill set matters. Think about what you will do with it.
For Homeowners
If you’re building shelves, hanging pictures, or doing small repairs, a 12V or 18V set is usually perfect. They are easy to handle and powerful enough for most home tasks.
For Professionals
If you’re a contractor or work with tools a lot, you need something tough. Look for 20V or higher sets with brushless motors and extra batteries. These can handle demanding jobs all day.
Ease of Use
A good drill set should be easy to start and switch between drilling and driving. The controls should be simple to understand. It should feel comfortable in your hand.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between a drill and a driver?
A: A drill is mainly for making holes. A driver is designed for screwing and unscrewing things. Many combo sets have drills that can also drive screws.
Q: How many batteries should a combo drill set come with?
A: Most good sets come with at least two batteries. This way, you can use one while the other charges.
Q: Is a hammer drill function necessary for home use?
A: It’s not always needed, but it’s very helpful if you plan to drill into brick or concrete.
Q: What does “brushless” mean in a drill motor?
A: Brushless motors don’t have brushes that wear out. They are more efficient, last longer, and give more power.
Q: How do I choose the right drill bit?
A: Use bits made for the material you are drilling. Wood bits for wood, metal bits for metal, and masonry bits for brick or concrete.
Q: Can I use bits from a different brand with my drill?
A: Yes, as long as the bit shank (the part that goes into the drill) fits your drill’s chuck size.
Q: How long should a drill battery last?
A: This depends on the Ah rating and how hard you use it. A good Li-ion battery can last for many minutes to over an hour of continuous use.
Q: What is the best voltage for a DIYer?
A: 18V or 20V is a good balance of power and weight for most home projects.
Q: How do I maintain my combo drill set?
A: Keep the drill clean and dry. Store batteries at room temperature. Avoid dropping the tools.
Q: Are more expensive drill sets always better?
A: Not always, but higher-priced sets often have better features like brushless motors and higher-quality batteries.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!