When power matters, not just any cordless drill will do. Whether you’re driving lag bolts into thick beams, boring through masonry, or putting in full days on the jobsite, a high-torque, high-performance drill is the way to go. Modern cordless drills rival corded models in raw muscle — and offer far more flexibility with runtime, features, and portability.
Let’s break down the best, most powerful cordless drills you can buy in 2024. These aren’t your average homeowner kits — they’re built for professionals and serious builders who demand nonstop performance from morning to night.
What Makes a Drill Powerful?
- Torque: Measured in inch-pounds (in-lbs), torque is raw turning force. The best drills exceed 1,200 in-lbs.
- Brushless Motor: More efficient, cooler-running, and longer-lasting than brushed models.
- Voltage & Battery Size: Most high-power drills are 18V or 20V with 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah batteries.
- Hammer Function: Useful for masonry — many powerful drills now include this feature.
If you want brute strength with reliable control, these cordless drills bring the heat.
Top Picks for the Most Powerful Cordless Drills
1. Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2804-22 1/2″ Hammer Drill Kit
This beast is often called the strongest cordless drill on the market. It delivers up to 1,200 in-lbs of torque and can punch through everything from engineered lumber to concrete. Built with Milwaukee’s POWERSTATE brushless motor and REDLITHIUM XC5.0 batteries, it runs long and hard.
- 1,200 in-lbs torque
- 4-mode operation: Drill, Drive, Hammer, Auto-Stop
- Metal ratcheting chuck
- Includes two 5.0Ah batteries and hard case
Price: $300–$350. A serious drill for serious work.
2. DeWalt DCD996P2 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill Kit
DeWalt’s flagship hammer drill cranks out 820 UWO (unit watts out), and has a three-speed transmission for versatility. It’s fast, strong, and runs on DeWalt’s 20V MAX XR platform — trusted across countless trades.
- Up to 2,250 RPM and 38,250 BPM (hammer mode)
- All-metal transmission and nitro-carburized chuck
- Includes two 5.0Ah batteries, charger, and case
Costs around $280. Excellent runtime, speed, and reliability.
3. Makita XPH07T 18V LXT Brushless Hammer Drill Kit
This Makita model balances torque and runtime like a champ. It pumps out 1,090 in-lbs of torque and has dual LED lights for dark jobsite visibility. The handle is ergonomic and well-balanced for all-day drilling.
- 1,090 in-lbs torque
- All-metal gear housing
- Two 5.0Ah batteries and dual-port charger included
Price: $320–$340. Smooth operation, serious strength.
4. Hilti SF 6H-A22 ATC 22V Hammer Drill Driver Kit
Hilti is known for overbuilt tools — and this 22V hammer drill lives up to that name. It’s not flashy, but it’s incredibly durable, powerful, and consistent under load. With ATC (Active Torque Control), it prevents wrist injuries from sudden binding.
- 22V system with brushless motor
- 1,062 in-lbs torque
- Active Torque Control safety
- Includes two batteries, charger, and case
Costs around $400. Built for commercial pros who need reliability above all.
5. Bosch HDH183-B24 18V EC Brushless Brute Tough Drill Kit
Bosch calls this drill the “Brute Tough” for good reason. It’s compact but pushes out over 750 in-lbs of torque and features KickBack Control — a built-in sensor to stop rotation during bind-up.
- Compact head (7.9” long)
- EC brushless motor
- Precision clutch and KickBack Control
- Includes two 4.0Ah batteries and charger
Priced around $260. Great for tradespeople who want strength and safety in tight spots.
How to Choose the Right Power Drill
- Torque: More torque means more bite through thick or tough material. Look for 1,000+ in-lbs for heavy use.
- Battery runtime: 5.0Ah batteries are a must if you’re drilling all day. Dual battery kits keep you working non-stop.
- Chuck type: Metal ratcheting chucks hold bits more securely under load.
- Weight & Ergonomics: Heavy-duty drills can weigh over 4 lbs — balance and grip matter.
- Safety: KickBack control and torque sensors prevent injury during bit lock-up.
Final Thoughts
The most powerful cordless drills in 2024 are faster, tougher, and smarter than ever. If you’re building decks, framing houses, or working with engineered materials, you need one of these top-tier tools.
Want max torque and no compromises? Go for the Milwaukee M18 FUEL. Need durability above all else? Hilti’s SF 6H-A22 can take the beating. Prefer refined control with high output? Check out the DeWalt DCD996P2.
These drills don’t just spin fast — they get things done, and they don’t slow down when the job gets tough.