Best Compact Cordless Drills (2026)

The DCD794B is the Atomic series drill, DeWalt's shortest and lightest brushless 20V MAX class. Its compact body fits where a standard drill will not, while the brushless motor keeps run time long for its size. A 1/2 inch chuck is retained, so bit range stays wide.

Compared with the DCD777D1 it is a more modern and more compact design, and it has the same battery platform. It is not as strong as the Milwaukee M18 2606-21CT, which publishes 500 in-lbs, but it is easier to hold overhead. For cabinet work, door hardware and small repairs it is excellent.

It is sold as a bare tool, so budget separately for batteries if you do not own them. Smaller packs make it very light, while larger packs add run time and weight. Spare batteries are the cheapest upgrade you can make to any of these.

The Milwaukee 2606-21CT is an M18 compact drill with 500 in-lbs of torque and a speed range from 0 to 400 rpm in low and 0 to 1,800 rpm in high gear. That is more torque than any other compact on this page. REDLINK electronics protect the tool and battery from overload.

It uses a brushed 4-pole frameless motor, so it is not as efficient as the brushless DeWalt DCD794B. It is also heavier and bulkier than the Milwaukee M12 FUEL below. For drilling through studs, driving lag screws and running hole saws it is the compact to choose.

The kit arrives with a battery and charger, so it works at once. M18 is a deep platform, though the standard pack is large for what a compact tool deserves. Spare batteries are the cheapest upgrade you can make to any of these.

The M12 FUEL subcompact is the smallest brushless drill here, built for work where a 20V tool is simply too large. A 3/8 inch chuck suits screws and small drill bits, and the variable speed trigger gives precise control. It is the favorite of electricians and installers.

It cannot match the 500 in-lbs of the M18 2606-21CT, and the 3/8 inch chuck rules out large auger bits. In return it is lighter and smaller than every 20V drill, and the M12 battery is compact. For cabinet install and hardware it is a joy to use.

It is a bare tool, so buy an M12 battery separately. Keep the chuck clean, and use an impact driver on the same platform for large screws. Spare batteries are the cheapest upgrade you can make to any of these.

The Craftsman CMCD714D1 has a 6.2 inch head length, about 25 percent shorter than the maker's previous design, with a brushless motor and a 1/2 inch chuck. The kit includes a 2.0 Ah battery and charger. It claims to drill faster than a major competitor.

It is a direct rival to the DeWalt DCD777D1, usually at a lower price, with a smaller platform behind it. Compared with the DeWalt DCD794B it is similar in size, but it arrives as a complete kit. It will not match the 500 in-lbs of the M18.

It makes sense for homeowners who want compact access without a pro price. Keep the battery indoors and the chuck free of dust.

The DCD777D1 is the compact brushless drill in a complete kit, with a 2.0 Ah battery and charger. It uses a two speed gearbox and a 1/2 inch chuck, so it covers drilling and driving. The lightweight body fits tight spaces, and the brushless motor extends run time.

Against the DCD794B it is slightly older and less compact, but it comes ready to use. Compared with the Craftsman CMCD714D1 it offers a deeper platform. The Milwaukee 2606-21CT beats it on torque.

It is the sensible entry to the 20V MAX family for someone who has no batteries. Add an impact driver later using the same pack.

The Dekopro 12V drill weighs only 1.65 lb and is easy to run with one hand. Its top speed is 800 rpm, which is slow, and its 3/8 inch chuck is small. It has an LED light and is meant for wood and plastic.

Compared with the Milwaukee M12 FUEL it is far less capable, but it costs a fraction of the price. It suits assembly, crafts and small repairs where torque is not needed. It is not for hardwood or metal.

The set includes a case and accessories. Treat it as a light duty household tool and do not expect long term professional use.