Corded vs Cordless Electric Drill: Which is Best in Power and Convenience?

a drill with a bit

When it comes to electric drills, contractors, carpenters, and handymen utilize both corded and cordless models. Each more or less does the same thing, but both are good to use in different circumstances. In terms of power and convenience, though, there is no question that they are in different leagues. As you will learn, corded drills provide more power while cordless drills are very convenient for certain work and in places where a power supply may be limited. While that is true, having one of each type at your disposal gives you the best of both worlds.

Corded Drills: The Powerful Choice

two corded drills

As far as power is concerned, corded drills provide more consistent torque. Although very high quality cordless models are available, corded drills are a much more reliable means of drilling and driving. The twisting force is powered by a constant flow of electricity, so there are no limitations in terms of voltage. If you ask a contractor or carpenter, if they have the option of using a corded drill, they almost always will.

There are other reasons that make corded drills superior to cordless models. These include overall weight, no need for batteries, and a fixed cost (aside from drivers and bits). Cordless drills can be bulkier and heavier due to their battery pack. In addition, you must always have a backup battery in case the one you are using goes dead. Eventually, too, the batteries must be replaced, which can be costly.

Cordless Drills: The Convenient Choice

a cordless drill

On the other hand, in terms of convenience, cordless drills without a doubt have the upper hand on their corded counterparts. Many cordless drills are produced with a variety of features. A reversible drive and manually adjustable clutch should be standard on a cordless drill. Magnetized bits and multiple speeds are desirable on a cordless drill. Their power is determined by the voltage stored in their batteries. Cordless drills typically range from 9.6 volts up to 28 volts. The lower the voltage, the less powerful the drill.

Where cordless drills excel is their ability to move with you. Provided the battery is well charged, cordless drills are unencumbered by a dangling cord. Depending on the job, this is advantageous. They make excellent secondary drills for contractors and do-it-yourselfers alike. While a corded drill will almost always be used for serious drilling or heavy-duty driving, a cordless model is ideal for quick fixes in hard-to-reach places. Cordless drills are a good tool to keep around the house for small household jobs. With an extra battery always charging, they are never without power. And because they are seldom used for extensive work, you don’t have to put their motors through a lot of stress. Leave that for the high-torque corded drill.

Both corded and cordless drills serve a purpose either in the workshop or at the job site. While corded drills are more powerful and provide more consistent twisting force, cordless drills work for quick fixes where power supply runs short or when you need not bother unwinding a cord and plugging it in. Consequently, corded drills are the choice for any heavy work while cordless drills are a great replacement for a handheld screwdriver.