What's a good cordless drill for under $100?

I picked up a green Kawasaki (I know) drill from Costco 3 years ago, I was apprehensive at first but couldn't afford a Makita, Bosch or DeWalt at the time. Several projects later I gave to say I'm very pleased, considering I paid like a forth of what I would have shelled out for the ones I mention above.

Depending on use, I agree with RG, an impact driver may be a good idea if you want something on the more powerful side for under $100 - it is lighter and more compact too. To actually DRILL with one you would need a special adapter or bits, but as a shadetree mechanic/home repair guy, I find myself reaching for it more often than a drill. I more often am messing with screws and bolts than ever having to put a hole in something anyway.

Do not try to find tools to meet at price. Find a tool that can do the kind of jobs/work you do. Buying a less expensive drill will do you zero good if it cannot do what you need. Everyone must have a good drill. If you do not want to spend the money for a Dewalt or similar product, then do not get a cordless. There are a lot of great drills, for well under a $100, that will work great, they just have a leash.

I fully agree with Adam Hauser on this. You really need to research the type you need and then go by price.

Check out several brands and narrow down what's best for you.

I've found this site to be very unbiased...

Good luck!

-Ryan

First, get a Consumer Reports account for $26 a year, they have excellent testing and recommendations for power tools and ALL products in general.

Second, if you want to save money AND get a drill that is powerful, buy second hand. Many, many people buy tools, use them for one job, and then let them sit for years until they sell them again. Check out this guide on how to buy second hand tools.

Third, get something that is 18v or over. Its never good to have a job where you need MORE torque.

Lastly, avoid proprietary or store-owned brands like Craftsman, they aren't as competitive and store employees have an incentive to sell them to you.

I would recommend the Hitachi DS12DVF3. It's a 12V drill, but it has more torque than many of the 18V's you'd find in this price range. To get a good 18V you'd need to spend around $180. If all you have is $100, then get the Hitachi. If you want the best value, splurge for a Makita 18V.

You can find out more about the Hitachi DS12DVF3 and the Makita at the link.