Ever tried to hang a picture, assemble furniture, or tackle a small DIY project, only to realize you need a drill? But not just any drill – you need a *small* drill. These compact powerhouses are incredibly useful for a variety of tasks around the house. However, wading through all the different types, sizes, and features can feel like a confusing maze.
Choosing the wrong small drill can lead to frustration. Maybe it’s too weak for the job, too bulky to maneuver in tight spaces, or just doesn’t have the right power. You want a tool that makes your projects easier, not harder. That’s where this guide comes in.
By reading on, you’ll discover what makes a great small drill, what features to look for, and how to pick the perfect one for your needs. We’ll break down the essentials so you can confidently grab the right tool and get your tasks done with ease. Let’s dive in and find your ideal small drill!
Our Top 5 Small Drill Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Small Drill Detailed Reviews
1. FADAKWALT Cordless Drill Set
Rating: 8.5/10
Tackle your DIY projects with the FADAKWALT 12V Cordless Drill Set in vibrant green. This powerful drill is designed for home use, making it easy to drill into wood, metal, and plastic, and handle all your screwing needs. Its compact and lightweight design means you can work comfortably for longer periods, and the rubber grip makes it easy to hold with one hand.
What We Like:
- It has a strong motor that delivers 180 inch-lbs of torque, great for most home jobs.
- The 21+1 torque settings help you avoid stripping screws or damaging your materials.
- The built-in LED light shines on your work area, and the electric brake stops the drill quickly for better control.
- The set includes a good variety of drill bits and screwdriver bits, plus a magnetic flexible shaft for hard-to-reach spots.
- It’s comfortable to hold and use, even for extended periods.
What Could Be Improved:
- While good for home projects, it might not be powerful enough for very heavy-duty construction work.
- The battery life isn’t specified, so it’s hard to know how long you can work before recharging.
- The included bits are decent, but serious hobbyists might want to upgrade to higher-quality ones.
This FADAKWALT drill set is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly tool for home repairs and projects. It offers good control and a helpful range of accessories to get you started right away.
2. Hi-Spec Electric Screwdriver 27pc 3.6V Pink USB Small Power Screwdriver Set. Cordless & Rechargeable with Driver Bit Set
Rating: 9.3/10
Tackle your DIY projects with a pop of color! The Hi-Spec Electric Screwdriver 27pc 3.6V Pink USB Small Power Screwdriver Set is a cordless and rechargeable tool perfect for many household tasks. Its bright pink design makes it easy to spot, and its compact size means you can take it anywhere. This set comes with everything you need to get started on assembling furniture, hanging pictures, or fixing small items around your home.
What We Like:
- The vibrant pink color makes it stand out and easy to find.
- It’s very lightweight, weighing only 0.7 lb, so it’s comfortable to use for longer periods.
- The USB rechargeable battery is super convenient – you can charge it with almost any USB plug.
- It comes with 23 different bits, so you have the right one for most common screws.
- The single-speed operation makes it simple to use for screwdriving tasks.
- Its small size makes it easy to store in a drawer or toolbox.
What Could Be Improved:
- This screwdriver is designed only for screwdriving; it cannot be used for drilling holes.
- While it charges quickly, it’s recommended to give it a full charge before the first use.
This Hi-Spec Electric Screwdriver is a fantastic tool for quick fixes and light assembly. It’s a user-friendly option that adds a bit of fun to your toolkit.
3. DEKOPRO 8V Cordless Drill
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to tackle your DIY projects with the DEKOPRO 8V Cordless Drill! This pink powerhouse is designed for ease of use, making it a fantastic tool for home maintenance and creative crafting. It’s perfect for drilling into wood and plastic, and it’s a champ at driving screws in or taking them out. Plus, the built-in LED light means you can work even in dimmer spots.
What We Like:
- Lightweight and Easy to Handle: Weighing only 1.65 pounds, you can comfortably use it with one hand, which is great for those longer projects.
- Versatile for Many Tasks: It’s good for drilling small holes and for all your screwing needs.
- Variable Speed Control: You can easily adjust how fast the drill spins by how hard you squeeze the trigger.
- Forward and Reverse Function: Easily switch the drill’s direction and use the switch as a safety lock.
- Comes with Lots of Accessories: The kit includes 42 helpful pieces, like various drill bits, screw bits, and even a torpedo level.
- Convenient USB-C Charging: It charges with a Type-C cable, which is super common and easy to find.
- Great for Women and Beginners: Its pink color and user-friendly design make it an inviting choice for anyone new to power tools.
What Could Be Improved:
- Not for Tough Materials: This drill isn’t meant for hard surfaces like brick or concrete.
- Limited Power for Heavy Jobs: While great for DIY, it might not be strong enough for very demanding construction tasks.
This DEKOPRO cordless drill is a solid option for anyone looking for a user-friendly and versatile tool for light home projects. It’s a fun and functional addition to any toolkit.
4. SKIL Rechargeable 4V Cordless Screwdriver Includes 9pcs Bit
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of fumbling with manual screwdrivers? The SKIL Rechargeable 4V Cordless Screwdriver is here to make your life easier. This handy tool is perfect for all your home projects, from assembling furniture to quick repairs. It comes with everything you need to get started, including 9 bits, a bit holder, and a USB charging cable.
What We Like:
- It’s super easy to use, making it great for beginners and DIYers.
- The compact design lets you work in tight spots where bigger tools can’t go.
- The ergonomic grip and two-finger trigger feel comfortable in your hand.
- The rechargeable lithium-ion battery holds a charge for a long time, so you won’t be interrupted.
- You can charge it anywhere with a micro USB cable, which is really convenient.
What Could Be Improved:
- For very tough jobs or heavy-duty tasks, you might need a more powerful drill.
- The battery life, while good for its size, might not last through an entire day of constant, heavy use.
This SKIL screwdriver is a fantastic option for anyone who needs a reliable and easy-to-use tool for common household tasks. It’s a great addition to any toolkit for tackling those everyday projects with ease.
5. HARDELL Mini Cordless Rotary Tool Kit
Rating: 9.5/10
The HARDELL Mini Cordless Rotary Tool Kit is your new best friend for all your creative DIY projects. This compact and powerful tool comes with 61 accessories, making it super versatile for sanding, polishing, drilling, etching, and engraving. It’s like having a whole workshop in your hand, perfect for detailed crafts like resin art. Just remember, it’s best for lighter jobs, not heavy-duty work.
What We Like:
- It’s incredibly versatile with 61 different accessories for all sorts of crafting needs.
- The 5-speed settings let you control the power precisely, making it easy for beginners.
- It’s lightweight and shaped like a pen, giving you great control and comfort.
- Quick USB charging means you can get back to your projects fast, and it runs for a long time on one charge.
- The built-in LED light helps you see better and work more accurately, especially in darker areas.
What Could Be Improved:
- This tool is not designed for heavy-duty tasks or tough materials.
This HARDELL rotary tool kit is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to add detail and polish to their DIY creations. It offers a great balance of power, control, and convenience for crafters of all levels.
Choosing the Right Small Drill: Your Essential Buying Guide
Finding the perfect small drill can make your DIY projects so much easier. These handy tools are great for all sorts of tasks, from hanging pictures to assembling furniture. Let’s dive into what makes a great small drill and how to pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a small drill, keep these important features in mind:
- Power and Speed: Look for drills with enough power for the jobs you’ll be doing. Variable speed control is a big plus. It lets you start holes slowly and then speed up.
- Battery Life: If you’re getting a cordless drill, check the battery voltage (usually 3.6V to 12V for small drills) and how long it lasts. Many come with extra batteries.
- Chuck Size: This is where you put the drill bits. Most small drills have a 1/4-inch hex chuck. Make sure it fits the bits you use.
- Ergonomics and Weight: A comfortable grip and light weight make a big difference, especially for longer jobs.
- LED Light: A built-in light helps you see what you’re doing in dimly lit areas.
- Forward and Reverse Function: This lets you switch the drill’s direction to tighten or loosen screws.
Important Materials
The materials used in a drill affect its durability and performance.
- Housing: Most small drills have a tough plastic housing. Look for reinforced plastic that feels sturdy.
- Chuck: A metal chuck is generally more durable than a plastic one.
- Motor: Brushless motors are more efficient and last longer than brushed motors. You might see this mentioned in higher-end models.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a drill better or worse.
What makes a drill better?
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often offer better quality and customer support.
- Build Quality: A drill that feels solid and well-made will likely last longer.
- Included Accessories: Some drills come with a nice set of drill bits and a case, which adds value.
- Positive Reviews: Reading what other users say is very helpful.
What can make a drill less good?
- Cheap Plastic: Drills made with flimsy plastic might break easily.
- Weak Battery: A battery that dies quickly will frustrate you.
- Poor Grip: An uncomfortable handle makes the drill hard to use.
- Limited Features: Drills without variable speed or forward/reverse might not be versatile enough.
User Experience and Use Cases
Small drills are incredibly versatile.
Who uses them?
- Homeowners: For hanging shelves, assembling furniture, or minor repairs.
- Hobbyists: For crafting, model building, or intricate projects.
- Beginners: They are easy to handle and learn on.
What can you do with them?
- Drilling small holes: In wood, plastic, or thin metal.
- Driving screws: Assembling furniture, installing fixtures.
- Light-duty tasks: Perfect for quick fixes around the house.
They are not meant for heavy-duty construction, but for everyday tasks, they are a fantastic choice.
Frequently Asked Questions about Small Drills
Q1: What is the best cordless small drill for home use?
A1: For home use, look for a drill with a 12V battery, variable speed, and a comfortable grip. Brands like DeWalt, Makita, and Ryobi offer great options.
Q2: How much power do I need in a small drill?
A2: For most home tasks, a drill with a voltage between 3.6V and 12V is sufficient. Higher voltage means more power.
Q3: Can a small drill handle drilling into metal?
A3: Yes, a small drill can drill into thin metal. Use the correct metal drill bits and start slowly.
Q4: What does “variable speed” mean?
A4: Variable speed means you can control how fast the drill spins. You can start slowly to make precise holes and then increase speed.
Q5: How long should a small drill battery last?
A5: Battery life varies. A good battery might last 30-60 minutes of continuous use. Many drills come with a spare battery.
Q6: What is a chuck, and why is the size important?
A6: The chuck is the part that holds the drill bit. The size, usually 1/4-inch hex for small drills, determines which drill bits you can use.
Q7: Are brushless motors better than brushed motors?
A7: Yes, brushless motors are generally more efficient, powerful, and last longer than brushed motors. They also produce less heat.
Q8: Can I use a small drill to hang heavy things on the wall?
A8: For most walls, yes. If you’re hanging something very heavy, make sure you use appropriate wall anchors and a drill bit suitable for your wall type.
Q9: What accessories usually come with a small drill?
A9: Many small drills come with a charger, a battery (or two), a carrying case, and sometimes a basic set of drill bits and screwdriver bits.
Q10: How do I maintain my small drill?
A10: Keep the drill clean and dry. Store it in its case when not in use. Charge the battery regularly, but avoid overcharging.
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!