Modern power drills have progressed far beyond the models available several decades ago. Cordless drills with electric brakes and variable speeds with reverse action were considered rarities back then, but these features are standard on nearly every cordless drill on the market today. Yet there are still a number of modern units that offer something extra to set themselves apart. Here are five cordless drill/drivers that stand out from the crowd.


Black & Decker HPD12K-2 12-Volt Cordless Drill/Driver

The economical Black & Decker HPD12K-2 variable-speed cordless drill/driver may have a very reasonable suggested price of $69.97, but it includes a number of impressive features you might not expect for the cost.

Equipped with a professional-grade 12-volt motor, this 3/8-inch unit sports a two-speed gearbox with a high-torque mode that produces 175 inch-pounds, something you don't usually see in a drill at this price point. The torque collar adjusts easily to any of 32 positions. The HPD12K-2 also includes a keyless clutch with single-sleeve operation for fast bit changes, so you know this Black & Decker model is easy to handle.

Black & Decker HPD12K-2
Black & Decker HPD12K-2

Ryobi P240 18-Volt Cordless Right-Angle Drill/Driver

If you find yourself backed into a corner, the Ryobi P240 variable-speed cordless right-angle drill/driver gives you the versatility you need to power through tight places. With an MSRP of $54.97, this 18-volt, 3/8-inch unit comes with a compact right-angle design and plenty of power. What's cool about the P240 is the swiveling battery foot that can be rotated to any position, which proves very convenient when working in close quarters like between studs.

With Ryobi's One+ battery system, the P240's versatility factor is taken a step further. The same charger and NiCad battery works with any 18-volt Ryobi cordless tool, and the battery charges in just one hour. Just imagine what you can do with the Ryobi P240.


Ridgid R931 XLi 24-Volt Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver

For top power and performance to tackle the toughest applications, the 24-volt Ridgid R931 variable-speed cordless hammer drill/driver is one workhouse of a tool. With an MSRP of $379, this three-piece combo kit also includes a reciprocating saw and a work light, all of which are powered by a state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery for longer run times, fade-free power and higher performance at a lower weight.

The two-speed gearbox has high-torque (615 inch-pounds) and high-speed (1,500 rpm) modes, with a hammer drill impact rate of up to 24,000 blows per minute. The clutch bypass makes it easy to switch the easy-to-handle R931 from driving to drilling or hammering without touching the clutch ring. Other features include a 24-position torque adjustment ring, a single-sleeve locking carbide keyless chuck, an ergonomic overmold and a 3-year warranty. For an extreme tool with user-friendly features, the Ridgid R931 leads the pack.

Bosch 32614-2G
Bosch 32614-2G

Bosch 32614-2G 14.4-Volt Cordless Drill/Driver

We like everything about the 14.4-volt Bosch 32614-2G variable-speed cordless drill/driver. This 3/8-inch tool has the perfect balance of professional-grade power and heavy-duty design, all packed into a compact, lightweight chassis. Thanks to the DuraShield housing and steel-reinforced collar, the 32614-2G is extremely resistant to damage. This drill is also a dream to handle, with a rubberized grip and smart ergonomic design.

The two-speed gearbox provides premium performance for both high-torque driving (300 inch-pounds) and high-speed drilling (0 to 1,200 rpm). The single-sleeve keyless chuck makes bit changes a breeze, and carbide teeth provide superior gripping. In addition, Bosch's BLUECORE battery system features a 30-minute charger and a pair of 2.0Ah batteries for 50-percent longer battery life. With a MSRP of $159, the Bosch 32614-2G is premium tool and an easy choice for Best Buy.