In testing cordless drills, there are three main methods used besides general impressions. The first method is a clearance test, which determines the tightest space the drill can get into while still drilling at a perfect 90-degree angle. The other two methods involve power and longevity testing, with one test measuring high torque and the other measuring low torque. For the high-torque test, a wood spade bit is used to drill holes into lumber, and the number of holes drilled is divided by the battery capacity to compare performance. The low-torque test involves driving screws into lumber until the drill can no longer seat a screw flush or below the surface.
In the high-torque test for 12-volt drills, the number of holes bored per amp hour is relatively low compared to 18-volt drills. The Ryobi drill stood out for its strong performance, while the Milwaukee drill excelled in the ability of the spade bit to exit the lumber without snagging. On the other hand, both Bosch and Ridgid drills had trouble exiting the boards consistently. In the low-torque test, the number of screws driven per amp hour was measured, with the 18-volt tests using longer screws than the 12-volt tests. This method allowed for a comparison of the drills’ performance under lower torque conditions.
During the testing process, factors such as hand grip comfort and trigger response were noted. The DeWalt drill had a small hand grip, which may not be ideal for all users, while the Ridgid drill required more trigger pull to reach maximum power, leading to potential hand cramping over long periods of use. Additionally, the clearance test measured the overall size of the drills to determine which ones could be used in tighter spaces. LED lighting and battery life indicators were also evaluated as additional features that may influence purchasing decisions for cordless drills.
Some drills featured LED lighting at the base of the tool near the battery, while others had it above the trigger on the main barrel. Battery life indicators, which provide an estimate of remaining power in 25% increments, were present in some models but not all. Another feature worth noting was the battery-release mechanism, with some drills having a front-tab design while others had a side tab release. The performance variance was found to be larger in 12-volt drills compared to 18-volt drills, highlighting the importance of considering specific needs and preferences when choosing a cordless drill. Overall, understanding the performance, price, and capabilities of various drills can help consumers make an informed decision when selecting the best option for their needs.
