A cordless driver drill is currently the most popular power tool. Thanks to the unparalleled freedom it offers, it's an essential tool for every project. But there are different types of drilling machines, with some important distinctions. This is our quick guide to choosing the right cordless drill for the job.
You use a cordless driver drill to screw and drill into wood and steel. If you want to drill into brick instead, you should choose a cordless impact drill. This tool is also suitable for drilling into wood, metal and soft stone. And if you need to drill holes in concrete? Look for a drill hammer. Read on for an overview of things you should bear in mind when you are buying a cordless driver drill.
Choose the right tool for the job
When choosing a cordless driver drill, it's a good idea to know how demanding the typical task will be. Do you do little more than put in a few screws from time to time? Or will you be using the tool every day and expect that you will need more power? For example, do you need enough power to drive a screw into the wooden beams of a stable? This force is shown in Newton metres (abbreviated as Nm). The higher the Nm, the more easily your drill will penetrate thicker and denser materials. The power of a cordless driver drill also depends on the voltage and speed, as well as the drilling diameter.
- Light Duty - Good professional entry-level cordless drill
This is a universal power tool for driving screws and drilling holes. It's perfect for the occasional job, and represents excellent value for money. If you're planning on doing more, you can scale up to heavy-duty tools.
- Heavy Duty - A cordless drill for daily use
Are you planning to use the tool more frequently? The batteries in these tools have a greater capacity, which means that you can work for longer before you need to recharge. In terms of amps, the batteries have over twice the capacity.
They also boast a longer service life. They have a sturdier design and a metal drill head. This makes them professional, powerful drills suitable for drilling even larger holes. The power of these tools ranges from 50 Nm to 70 Nm.
- Highest Duty - Extra powerful cordless drill
Looking for something even more powerful? Then you need one of these tools. These drills allow you to complete tasks that were, until recently, almost impossible using cordless driver drills. These machines have a power of 70 Nm to 138 Nm, which gives them the power to tackle virtually any job. Just take a look at the power ratings of typical corded drills for reassurance that, these days, a top-quality cordless drill is probably all you’ll ever need.
Choose the right power
1. Battery technology
Battery technology is an important factor. The world is changing rapidly, as is technology. Nowadays, most tools have a Li-ion battery. This battery type will help you get the most out of your cordless drill. How?
- Highest energy density after the lithium polymer battery
- Low self-discharge
- No memory effect (no problem with sluggish batteries)
- High power output
- More environmentally friendly than other batteries
- Long service life if cooled when charging
2. Voltage
What power can you expect from a tool? Although a high voltage indicates a stronger tool, the decisive factor for power is ultimately the rotary frequency. Most cordless drills have a power of 18 volts. This is the most common voltage. But there are many other options available. HiKOKI, for example, offers tools ranging from 12 to 36 volts. The higher the number of volts, the more powerful the tool.
3. Capacity
How often will you use the drilling machine? The capacity of the battery is expressed in ampere hours (Ah). In general, the higher the amperage of the battery, the longer you can work on a single battery charge. It is, in essence, the same principle as the amount of diesel that fits in a tractor. The more diesel you can put in your tank, the longer you can drive without having to refuel.
- Light Duty:
If you make only occasional, brief use of your cordless drill, a tool that offers between 1 and 3 Ah is sufficient.
- Heavy Duty en Highest Duty:
If you are likely to use the cordless drill (almost) daily and for long periods, we recommend a cordless drill with a minimum of 3 Ah. 5 Ah is the current standard and the highest-duty batteries even go up to 8 Ah. This level of performance will prevent you from getting stuck with an empty battery. Of course, it is always a good idea to buy a second battery so you can charge it while the first battery is in use.
The finishing touch
Once you have found the right cordless driver drill, it is also important to have the correct accessoires. Drills come in all styles and sizes, including special drills for wood, metal, stone and concrete. To prevent damage to the drills and create good-quality holes, it is important to use the right drill in each material.
If you have any questions about finding the right cordless drill, please contact us at knowledgecenter@kramp.com and we will be happy to help.
