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Buying guide · 13 min read · Updated 2026-11-06

Best Right Angle Drills (2026)

Six right angle drills compared on head size, torque, chuck type and battery platform, for tight framing bays, plumbing and electrical work.

James MillerBy James MillerLead Machine Editor6 machines comparedSpec-sheet verified
Best Right Angle Drills

At a glance

Our top picks

Side by side

Spec comparison

MachineSuppliedPlatformMotorChuck
DeWalt DCD740B 20V MAX Right Angle DrillBest OverallDeWalt DCD740B 20V MAX Right Angle DrillTool onlyDeWalt 20V MAXn/an/a
Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless 3/8 Inch Right Angle DrillBest Value BrushlessRyobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless 3/8 Inch Right Angle DrillTool onlyRyobi ONE+Brushless3/8 inch
Milwaukee M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG 1/2 Inch Right Angle DrillBest for Big HolesMilwaukee M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG 1/2 Inch Right Angle DrillTool onlyMilwaukee M18Brushless1/2 inch
Milwaukee M12 2415-20 3/8 Inch Right Angle DrillBest 12VMilwaukee M12 2415-20 3/8 Inch Right Angle DrillTool onlyMilwaukee M12n/a3/8 inch ratcheting single sleeve
Makita XAD02Z 18V LXT 3/8 Inch Angle DrillBest Light Duty CordlessMakita XAD02Z 18V LXT 3/8 Inch Angle DrillTool onlyMakita LXT 18V4-pole3/8 inch keyless
Makita DA3010F 3/8 Inch Corded Angle DrillBest CordedMakita DA3010F 3/8 Inch Corded Angle Drilln/an/a4.0 amp cordedn/a

A right angle drill puts the chuck at ninety degrees to the motor so you can drill between studs, joists and cabinet walls where a normal drill cannot turn. The tradeoff is a tool that is built around a gearbox rather than a pistol grip, and numbers that look similar can mean very different things in a bay.

This guide explains how head size, gear ratio and torque decide which right angle drill suits electrical, plumbing and framing work, and where cheap models fall short.

Before you buy

6 Criteria to Look For Before Buying a Right Angle Drill

  1. 01

    Head size and length

    A right angle drill earns its place by fitting where other drills cannot. The DeWalt DCD740B measures 4.0 inches front to back, while the Makita DA3010F has a 2-5/8 inch head but is 10-5/8 inches long. Studs are spaced 16 inches on center, so a tool must fit with the battery attached. Measure your tightest bay first. Put the battery on the tool before you check the fit.

  2. 02

    Torque and bit size

    Large auger bits need serious torque. The Ryobi HP delivers up to 350 in-lbs, while the Makita XAD02Z is rated 121 in-lbs. The Milwaukee Hole Hawg is built for 1 inch and larger bits. Using a small tool with a large bit stalls the motor and can twist your wrist. Bits wear faster in framing nails, so keep spares.

  3. 03

    Speed range and gearing

    Low gear drives large bits slowly with torque, and high gear drills small holes quickly. The DeWalt DCD740B offers 0 to 650 and 0 to 2,000 rpm. A single speed tool limits what you can do. Check the gear switch. Gear switches should click firmly.

  4. 04

    Chuck type

    A ratcheting chuck grips bits firmly and prevents slip, as on the Milwaukee 2415-20. Keyless chucks on the Makita XAD02Z make swaps quick. A chuck in a tight bay is hard to reach, so a one hand design helps. Test it if you can. Reversing is useful for backing out bits.

  5. 05

    Corded or cordless

    A cordless tool moves freely, while the corded Makita DA3010F never runs out of power. Batteries add length and weight to the back of the tool. For long runs in an attic, a cord can be a nuisance. Choose based on where you work. Extension cords add voltage drop on long runs.

  6. 06

    Platform and bare tool cost

    Most right angle drills here are bare tools, so you need batteries and a charger. DeWalt 20V MAX, Ryobi ONE+, Milwaukee M12 or M18 and Makita LXT each carry a broad ecosystem. Buy the one that matches tools you already own. A bare tool saves money only if you already own the packs.

Detailed reviews

The 6 best right angle drills, explained

01
DeWalt DCD740B 20V MAX Right Angle Drill
650/2,000 rpm4.0 inch lengthMulti-grip trigger20V MAX
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Best for: Electricians and remodelers on the DeWalt 20V MAX platform.

The DCD740B has a front to back length of 4.0 inches, which lets it fit between studs spaced 16 inches apart with room for a battery. A dual speed gearbox covers 0 to 650 rpm for large bits and 0 to 2,000 rpm for small ones. A multi-grip trigger lets you hold the tool in several positions.

It is a bare tool, so you need 20V MAX batteries. Compared with the Ryobi HP it has a wider speed range, and compared with the Makita XAD02Z it offers far more speed headroom. It is not a Hole Hawg, so one inch bits in dense timber are better done by the Milwaukee.

Expect a compact tool that is easy to store. Keep the chuck free of dust and avoid dropping the gear head. Bits with a hex shank work well in the tight chuck.

What works

  • 4.0 inch length fits between studs
  • Two speed ranges cover many bit sizes
  • Multi-grip trigger suits awkward positions
  • Shares 20V MAX batteries

Watch out for

  • Sold without battery or charger
  • Less torque than Hole Hawg tools
  • Brushed motor costs run time

Spec sheet

Speed range
0 to 650 / 0 to 2,000 rpm
Length
4.0 inches front to back
Trigger
Multi-grip
Voltage class
20V MAX
Supplied
Tool only
Platform
DeWalt 20V MAX
02
Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless 3/8 Inch Right Angle Drill
Brushless350 in-lbs3/8 inch chuckONE+ HP
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Best for: Homeowners with other Ryobi ONE+ tools.

The Ryobi ONE+ HP right angle drill uses a brushless motor and delivers up to 350 in-lbs, twice the torque of the maker's previous model. That is enough for drilling through studs with auger bits in a home setting. A 3/8 inch chuck handles common bit sizes.

Compared with the DeWalt DCD740B it is a similar tool at a lower price, with a very broad home tool platform. Against the Makita XAD02Z's 121 in-lbs it has far more torque. It is not a trade grade tool, and the housing is a little larger than the DeWalt.

It is a bare tool, so a ONE+ battery is required. A 4 Ah pack balances run time and weight. A fresh battery gives noticeably more torque than a worn one.

What works

  • Brushless motor gives longer run time
  • Up to 350 in-lbs is strong for the class
  • Large home tool battery platform
  • Lower cost than pro brands

Watch out for

  • Bare tool needs a battery
  • Slightly larger body than DeWalt
  • Less rugged than trade tools

Spec sheet

Torque
Up to 350 in-lbs
Motor
Brushless
Chuck
3/8 inch
Torque gain
2x previous model
Supplied
Tool only
Platform
Ryobi ONE+
03
Milwaukee M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG 1/2 Inch Right Angle Drill
M18 FUEL brushless1/2 inch chuckHole HawgBare tool
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Best for: Plumbers and electricians drilling large holes all day.

The Hole Hawg 2807-20 is the heavy duty right angle drill, built to drive large auger bits and hole saws through framing lumber. Its 1/2 inch chuck and brushless M18 FUEL motor give the torque the compact tools cannot. Plumbers and electricians drilling dozens of holes a day choose this tool.

It is bigger and heavier than the DeWalt DCD740B, and it cannot fit into the narrowest bays. In exchange it will not stall where the Ryobi HP or Makita would. Compared with the Milwaukee 2808-20 with Quik-Lok it uses a conventional chuck.

It is sold bare, and a high output M18 battery makes best use of it. Check the side handle and keep the gearbox clean. Check the auto feed bit alignment before each job.

What works

  • Drives large auger bits and hole saws
  • Brushless M18 FUEL motor
  • Half inch chuck holds big shanks
  • Built for daily trade use

Watch out for

  • Large and heavy for tight bays
  • Premium price
  • Sold without battery

Spec sheet

Model
2807-20
Motor
Brushless
Chuck
1/2 inch
Class
Heavy duty
Supplied
Tool only
Platform
Milwaukee M18
04
Milwaukee M12 2415-20 3/8 Inch Right Angle Drill
M12 12V3/8 inch chuckRatcheting chuckBare tool
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Best for: Electricians who want a light tool for small holes.

The Milwaukee 2415-20 is the 12V right angle drill, with a 3/8 inch single sleeve ratcheting chuck for firm grip. It is small and light, which suits long overhead jobs. The M12 battery is compact and keeps weight down.

It is not strong enough for large bits, so it is a better fit for small holes in studs and hardware. Compared with the Ryobi HP it gives up torque, while compared with the Makita XAD02Z it matches size and adds a ratcheting chuck. It is a well made tool for electricians.

A bare tool, so you need an M12 battery. Enjoy the weight savings, and stick to bits under 3/4 inch. An extra battery makes a long day easy.

What works

  • Ratcheting chuck holds bits firmly
  • Compact M12 platform keeps weight low
  • Fits tight spaces
  • Easy overhead handling

Watch out for

  • Limited torque for large bits
  • Bare tool needs batteries
  • Brushed motor design

Spec sheet

Voltage class
12V
Chuck
3/8 inch ratcheting single sleeve
Model
2415-20
Supplied
Tool only
Use
Light to medium drilling
Platform
Milwaukee M12
05
Makita XAD02Z 18V LXT 3/8 Inch Angle Drill
121 in-lbs0 to 1,800 rpm3/8 inch keylessLXT 18V
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Best for: Makita LXT owners who need a light angle drill.

The Makita XAD02Z states 121 in-lbs of maximum torque and a 0 to 1,800 rpm speed range. That torque is low next to the Ryobi HP at 350 in-lbs, so it is a tool for small holes and screws. A 3/8 inch keyless chuck allows fast bit changes.

It is a sound choice for Makita LXT owners who want one angle drill. It will not drill large auger bits, and the DeWalt DCD740B has a wider speed range. For cabinet installs and light electrical it is enough.

It is a bare tool, and Makita LXT batteries are widely available. Keep expectations in line with the specs. Its low torque makes it better suited to hardware and cable holes.

What works

  • Fits the Makita LXT battery range
  • Keyless chuck speeds bit changes
  • Light and well balanced
  • Good for small holes and screws

Watch out for

  • Low torque of 121 in-lbs
  • Not for large bits
  • Bare tool needs a battery

Spec sheet

Torque
121 in-lbs max
Speed
0 to 1,800 rpm
Chuck
3/8 inch keyless
Motor
4-pole
Supplied
Tool only
Platform
Makita LXT 18V
06
Makita DA3010F 3/8 Inch Corded Angle Drill
4.0 amp corded3.5 lb0 to 2,400 rpm10-5/8 inch long
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Best for: Electricians who want a battery free angle drill.

The Makita DA3010F is a corded right angle drill with a 4.0 amp motor and a 0 to 2,400 rpm speed range. It weighs 3.5 lb, light for a corded tool, and its head is 2-5/8 inches wide. It runs without a battery, so power never fades.

It is a classic tool for electricians who work in a house with outlets nearby. Compared with the cordless Ryobi HP it has less torque, but it never needs charging. Its length of 10-5/8 inches is longer than the cordless models.

And it is a reversible tool that suits small holes and screws. Check the cord and keep the vents clear. Cord length matters, so pair it with a heavy gauge extension cord.

What works

  • No battery to charge or replace
  • Light for a corded tool at 3.5 lb
  • Reversible for driving screws
  • Narrow head fits between studs

Watch out for

  • Cord limits movement
  • Lower torque than heavy duty tools
  • Longer body than cordless models

Spec sheet

Motor
4.0 amp corded
Weight
3.5 lb
Speed
0 to 2,400 rpm
Length
10-5/8 inches
Head width
2-5/8 inches
Direction
Reversible

Spec sheet decoder

What the numbers on the box really mean

The specs manufacturers lead with, translated into what they tell you about real-world performance.

Front to back length

The total length of the tool along the drill axis, which decides if it fits between studs. The DeWalt DCD740B is 4.0 inches. Shorter is easier to place.

Watch forAdd the battery length if it sits behind the motor. Check the listing for the battery's added length.

Max torque

The peak twisting force, such as 350 in-lbs on the Ryobi HP and 121 in-lbs on the Makita XAD02Z. It sets the largest bit you can run.

Watch forPeak figures are not sustained, so keep bits well below the limit. A cheap tool with an inflated figure often has a weak gearbox.

Speed range

The rpm from low gear to high gear, such as 0 to 650 and 0 to 2,000 rpm on the DeWalt. Low gear suits large bits.

Watch forSingle speed models restrict what you can drill. Low gear matters more than top rpm for auger bits.

Chuck size

The largest shank diameter the chuck holds. Most compact tools use 3/8 inch, while the Hole Hawg uses 1/2 inch.

Watch forA 3/8 inch chuck rules out some large bit shanks. Reducing bushings do not add torque, only fit.

Amp rating

For corded tools like the Makita DA3010F at 4.0 amps, it shows motor load. Higher amps usually mean more power.

Watch forAmps measure input, not output. Compare amps only within the same class of tool.

Methodology

How We Evaluated These Right Angle Drills

Size and access

We compared lengths and head widths, including 4.0 inches on the DeWalt and a 2-5/8 inch head on the Makita corded. Tools that fit tight bays ranked higher.

Torque and bit capacity

We compared 350 in-lbs on the Ryobi HP with 121 in-lbs on the Makita XAD02Z. The Hole Hawg anchored the heavy duty end.

Speed and chuck

Two speed gearboxes and secure chucks earned credit. A ratcheting chuck on the Milwaukee M12 ranked well.

Power source

We weighed corded reliability against cordless freedom. The Makita DA3010F is the corded pick, and the rest are cordless.

Lineup positioning

The DCD740B leads for balance, the Ryobi HP for value and the Hole Hawg for big holes. The Milwaukee M12 and Makita tools fill light duty roles.

Decision guide

How to Choose the Right Right Angle Drills

By Job

JobPickWhy
General remodeling and tradesDeWalt DCD740BShort length and two speeds
Homeowner projectsRyobi ONE+ HP350 in-lbs, low cost
Large holes through framingMilwaukee Hole Hawg 2807-20Heavy duty torque
Electrical small holesMilwaukee M12 2415-20Light and ratcheting
Light work on Makita LXTMakita XAD02ZPlatform fit
Shop or attic with powerMakita DA3010FCorded, no battery

By Budget

TierPickWhy
LowestRyobi ONE+ HPBrushless at a low price
Low to midMakita DA3010FCorded simplicity
MidMakita XAD02ZLight duty LXT
Upper midDeWalt DCD740BPro compact
HighMilwaukee M12 2415-20Compact pro
HighestMilwaukee Hole Hawg 2807-20Heavy duty

Compact vs Heavy Duty

Compact

Short, light tools that fit between studs. The DeWalt DCD740B, Ryobi HP and Milwaukee M12 fit here. They suit small and mid size bits.

Heavy duty

Larger tools with more torque for big bits. The Milwaukee Hole Hawg 2807-20 is the one. It will not fit the tightest bays.

Most buyers want compact. Choose heavy duty only if you drill large holes daily.

Corded or Cordless

PreferencePickWhy
Cordless freedomDeWalt DCD740BShort and flexible
No batteriesMakita DA3010FReliable power
Cordless valueRyobi ONE+ HPBrushless
Cordless lightMilwaukee M12 2415-20Small battery

For Electrical Work Specifically

Look for

A short body, a ratcheting chuck and an auger bit capacity for 3/4 inch holes. Low weight helps overhead. Variable speed gives control.

In this comparison

The Milwaukee M12 2415-20 and DeWalt DCD740B suit electricians best. The Hole Hawg is the pick for big runs.

When to Spend More

Spend more if

You drill every day or need large bits. The Milwaukee Hole Hawg and DeWalt DCD740B repay the cost.

Save if

You drill a few holes a year. The Ryobi ONE+ HP or Makita DA3010F is enough.

Ownership

Maintenance schedule

The upkeep that decides whether this machine lasts two seasons or ten.

TaskIntervalWhy it matters
Clean the chuckMonthlyDust prevents bits from locking. Wipe and blow out.
Check the gear headEvery 6 monthsThe gearbox takes shocks from binding bits. Look for oil leaks or play.
Inspect the cordBefore useCorded tools get dragged through attics. A nicked cord is a hazard.
Keep batteries at half chargeBetween jobsLithium cells age faster when full or empty.
Use a side handle on big bitsAlwaysBinding bits twist the tool. A handle gives control.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a right angle drill used for?

Drilling in tight spaces such as stud bays, joists and cabinets where a standard drill will not fit. Electricians and plumbers use them daily. In a typical house, that means getting through top plates and studs to run cable or pipe without opening the wall.

Is corded or cordless better?

Cordless is more convenient, while corded never runs out. Corded tools like the Makita DA3010F are light and reliable. The corded model suits a shop or a house with outlets, while a cordless tool suits attics and new construction.

Can it drill 1 inch holes?

Only the heavy duty tools such as the Milwaukee Hole Hawg. Small tools will stall. Holes beyond roughly 1 inch in dense lumber also call for a low gear and a side handle to control reaction torque.

Do I need a special bit?

Use bits with short shanks and self feed tips for big holes. Check the chuck capacity. Self feed bits and auger bits pull themselves through wood, so the tool needs torque and a firm grip rather than speed.

Is brushless worth it?

For heavy use, yes. The Ryobi HP shows brushless in an affordable tool. The extra run time matters on long days when you may drill a hundred holes.

How do I avoid wrist injury?

Use the side handle, brace your stance and choose a tool with enough torque. Binding bits are the main cause of injury. Keep your wrist straight and your body behind the tool, and never hold the chuck while the tool runs.

Bottom line

The short version

Browse more right angle drillson Amazon →
James Miller, Lead Machine Editor

About the author

James Miller

Lead Machine Editor, MachineFanatic

James Miller leads MachineFanatic's buying guides, turning spec sheets, manuals and owner feedback into clear verdicts on power tools, outdoor power equipment, shop machines and kitchen machines.

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