Not every job happens in perfect conditions. Sometimes you’re drilling in light rain, near plumbing, or on a damp jobsite floor. That’s when a water-resistant cordless drill becomes essential. While most drills aren’t truly waterproof, a few are built to resist splashes, moisture, and dust far better than average.
This guide covers the best cordless drills that can stand up to wet workspaces — from rugged all-around performers to the rare drill that’s built to operate in water. If your tools get used in the real world and not just in clean workshops, this list is for you.
What “Water-Resistant” Really Means for Power Tools
Most cordless drills are not waterproof. What you’ll find instead are tools with:
- Sealed housings and switch boots to protect internal parts
- Durable battery connections that resist moisture and dust
- Brushless motors that handle temperature and humidity better
Only a handful of drills are designed to operate in wet environments. One rare example is the Nemo drill — a truly waterproof unit used by divers and marine contractors. The rest on this list are weather-tough tools made for jobsites, outdoor builds, or damp conditions.
Top Water-Resistant Cordless Drills Compared
| Drill | Motor Type | Water Resistance | Best Use | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nemo 18V Waterproof Drill | Brushless | Fully submersible | Marine, wet environments | $1500–$1700 |
| DEWALT 20V MAX DCD771C2 | Brushed | Water-resistant housing | General jobsite use | $100–$130 |
| Milwaukee M18 2904-20 | Brushless | Weather-tough, sealed components | Pro construction & outdoor | $150–$180 (tool only) |
| Makita XPH12Z 18V LXT | Brushless | Dust & water-resistant | Outdoor & structural work | $120–$140 (tool only) |
| Bosch GSB18V-535CN | Brushless | IP-rated housing, compact | General repairs, field use | $140–$160 |
1. Nemo 18V Waterproof Drill – For Truly Wet Work
The Nemo Waterproof Drill is in a class of its own. It’s rated for full submersion in water up to 5 meters (16 feet), making it one of the only drills that can actually function while wet — not just resist moisture. Originally designed for divers, marine engineers, and offshore workers, it’s completely sealed and corrosion-resistant.
- Pros: Fully waterproof, durable marine-grade build, high torque
- Cons: Expensive, overkill for casual use
2. DEWALT 20V MAX DCD771C2 – Best Budget-Friendly Water-Resistant Drill
DEWALT’s 20V MAX drill is a go-to choice for everyday builders and has earned a strong reputation for rugged durability. While not waterproof, its sealed housing and tight switch design make it more water-resistant than many competitors. It handles splashes, dust, and outdoor exposure well.
- Pros: Reliable build, proven performance, good value
- Cons: Brushed motor, basic features
3. Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2904-20 – Toughest Pro Build
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel line is built to handle jobsite abuse. This hammer drill version uses a brushless POWERSTATE motor and REDLINK electronics that hold up under pressure — and its rugged housing is sealed against dust and light moisture. You’ll find it on construction sites where weather changes fast.
- Pros: Excellent torque, impact-resistant body, pro performance
- Cons: Battery and charger sold separately
4. Makita XPH12Z 18V LXT – Outdoor-Ready All-Around Drill
Makita’s LXT platform is known for durable tools, and this hammer drill is no exception. It has an efficient brushless motor and a housing that’s engineered to resist water and dust exposure. While not waterproof, it’s more than tough enough for damp deck framing or working near masonry washouts.
- Pros: Lightweight, weather-resistant, strong battery life
- Cons: No belt clip in bare tool version
5. Bosch GSB18V-535CN – Compact & Durable
Bosch tools often fly under the radar, but this brushless drill has a solid IP rating (Ingress Protection), meaning it resists dust and splashes effectively. It’s compact, reliable, and comes with electronic cell protection to help batteries last longer in tough conditions.
- Pros: Lightweight, good torque, IP protection
- Cons: Less raw power than Milwaukee/DeWalt
What to Look for in a Water-Resistant Drill
- Brushless Motor: Better sealed, more efficient, and handles heat better
- IP Ratings (if listed): Look for IPX4 or higher for splash protection
- Sealed Battery Housing: Keeps water away from vital connections
- Brand Track Record: Stick with trusted names known for jobsite tools
Can Any Drill Be Used in the Rain?
No. Most drills can tolerate damp air or occasional splashes but should not be used in active rain or direct water spray unless specified. Doing so risks shock or damage. Use caution and always check your user manual for warnings.
Final Thoughts
If you want the highest level of moisture resistance, the Nemo 18V Waterproof Drill is in a class of its own — though it’s expensive. For more practical everyday use, DEWALT, Milwaukee, and Makita offer weather-tough designs that hold up well to real-world conditions without breaking the bank.
Brushless motors, tight housings, and strong brands matter when you’re working where water might be part of the job. Choose the tool that matches how wet your work gets — and always avoid direct water exposure unless your tool is rated for it.