We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance,
functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you
are agreeing to our privacy policy
10 Best Makita Drills
From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
Related Products
Recommended lists
Top rated
Makita Cordless Drills
Buying Guide for the Best Makita Drills
Choosing the right drill can make your DIY projects much more enjoyable and productive. Makita is known for making reliable and innovative drills, but with so many options, it can be a bit overwhelming to pick the best one for your needs. The key is to think about what kind of tasks you'll be using the drill for—light home repairs, building furniture, or heavier construction projects. By paying close attention to the key specifications, you can choose a drill that fits your workload and comfort level.Power Source (Cordless vs. Corded)The power source refers to whether the drill runs on removable batteries (cordless) or plugs into a power outlet (corded). Cordless drills give you freedom to move around and are great for jobs where outlets are not nearby, but their run time is limited by battery life and they're generally preferred for most household tasks. Corded drills deliver consistent power as long as they're plugged in but require you to stay near an outlet, making them better for heavy-duty or extended use. Consider cordless if you value flexibility and portability, or corded if you need long, uninterrupted use or higher power for tough materials.
Voltage (for Cordless Drills)Voltage indicates the power output of the drill—higher voltage usually means a more powerful tool. Typical values are 12V, 18V, and 20V. Lower voltages like 12V are lighter and good for light tasks such as assembling furniture or small repairs. 18V and above are preferred when you need more muscle, such as drilling through tougher materials or doing frequent work. If you're mostly doing household repairs, 12V may be enough, but for frequent or demanding tasks, look for higher voltage.
Chuck SizeThe chuck is the part of the drill that holds the bits. Chuck size usually comes in 3/8-inch or 1/2-inch sizes. A 3/8-inch chuck can handle the majority of standard household drill bits and is lighter and easier to handle. A 1/2-inch chuck is more versatile, allowing you to use larger bits, which is helpful for heavy-duty tasks. Choose 3/8-inch for basic home use, and 1/2-inch if you anticipate the need for bigger drill bits.
Speed SettingsSpeed settings control how fast the drill bit spins, typically measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). Many drills offer multiple speed settings, letting you adjust for different materials—lower speeds for driving screws or drilling into delicate surfaces, and higher speeds for drilling into harder materials. If you only do simple work, single-speed or two-speed drills may be enough. Consider multi-speed models if you plan to work with a range of materials.
Torque Adjustment (Clutch Settings)Torque is the force that turns the drill bit. Many drills have adjustable torque settings, often called a clutch, which lets you control how much force is applied and helps prevent overdriving screws or damaging materials. More clutch settings give you finer control, which is especially useful when you work with different screw sizes or softer materials. If you want to protect your projects and have more versatility, choose a drill with higher clutch options.
Weight and ErgonomicsThe weight and feel of a drill determine how comfortable it is to use, especially over long periods. Heavier drills usually mean more power but can cause more fatigue. Lighter drills are easier to handle but might not pack as much punch. The grip and balance also play a big role in comfort. Try to choose one that feels balanced, with a comfortable grip, especially if you'll be using it frequently or for long stretches at a time.
Battery Type and Capacity (Cordless Drills)Cordless drills can use different types of batteries, the most common being lithium-ion (Li-Ion), which are lighter, hold charge longer, and recharge quickly. Battery capacity is measured in ampere-hours (Ah); higher numbers mean longer run times between charges. If you want longer uninterrupted work, select a drill with a higher Ah battery. If you use the drill only for quick jobs, lower capacity will be sufficient.