Author: ToolsTutor

Batteries of the cordless drill are not interchangeable if the manufacturer is different. But if it is the same manufacturer then you can exchange the battery within different cordless tools such as circular saw cordless drill and others. For example, Dewalt is a renowned power tool manufacturer. It produces different power tools such as cordless or corded drills, reciprocating saws, and many others. You can use the battery of a circular saw in a cordless deal.

Therefore I am making it clear that you cannot use the battery of a certain cordless drill for another drill that has been manufactured by another company. If within the same manufacturer, then it might be OK.

Can I use 18 volt battery in 20 volt tool?

Yes, you can. Ideally, you can interchange the battery of an 18-volt cordless drill and a 20-volt drill. In fact, 18 and 20-volt cordless drills are the same. For example, you can swap the batteries of 18 and 20-volt cordless drills without any problem. I remind you again you cannot swap batteries of different brands.

What to consider before interchanging the battery of a cordless drill?

First, we have to confirm that both of the drills are from the same manufacturer. But this is not the only consideration. It is the prime consideration you have to keep in mind.

Secondly, the voltage of both the batteries has to be e the same. All the 20 volts and 18 volts are interchangeable. If the voltage difference is too much then you cannot interchangeably use those batteries. For example, you cannot use a 12-volt battery for a 20-volt cordless drill. Similarly, you cannot use a 24 battery for a 12-volt drill. Even if the manufacturer is the same the voltage has to be matched.

After the voltage is matched you have to consider the amperage of both the batteries. It is not mandatory that the Amp of both the batteries has to be the same. But it is better to interchange with a battery with the same Amp rating. If the difference of Amp of both the battery is too much then avoid interchanging the batteries even if they are from the same manufacturer.

Is a Dewalt battery interchangeable with black and decker?

No black and decker and Dewalt batteries are not interchangeable even if the voltage and amperage are the same. The reason behind this is that although they give the same current and voltage they will not fit each other. Therefore you cannot fit a Dewalt battery into a black and decker cordless drill. The same thing happens vice versa.

Bottom line

Batteries from the same manufacturer may not be interchangeable sometimes. Therefore, you have to keep in mind all other factors that I have discussed above. If possible, keep multiple backup batteries so that you do not have to run out of power at a prime moment.

Dewalt DCD771C2 is a renowned model of cordless drill in today’s market. It is a 20-volt drill powered by lithium-ion batteries to give you a longer run time. We all know that Dewalt is one of the most reputed cordless drill manufacturers that produce power tools for the toughest projects. Dewalt DCD771C2 is like the other models of the cordless drill of this company that can handle robust projects. In this review of Dewalt DCD771C2 cordless drill, I am going to share with you my knowledge about the features of this DCD771C2 model with detailed pros and cons. I will also differentiate it from other reputed models of different brands to draw a comparison.

Dewalt DCD771C2 has the following features

Speed and torque

This power tool gives you excellent speed transmissions with two gear options. At a lower speed option, you will get the highest speed of 450 rpm at no load. It delivers a speed of 1500 rotation per minute at no load while you choose the higher speed option. This variable speed option is useful for performing different types of drilling and driving projects more conveniently ensuring safety. The torque of this device is divided intro 15 different clutch settings. You may customize the torque as per the needs of the project. If you do not know the meaning of the numbers on a cordless drill, then you may read our article.

Inbuilt LED light

There is a built-in illumination system above the trigger of the drill. The light is small but the utility of it is great. It can illuminate a dark place where it is difficult to work without any external light. Therefore, if you are working in any such places where you need an external source of light, this Dewalt drill can be a great choice.

Compactness

Dewalt DCD771C2 is lightweight and compact. I think you know the importance of a cordless drill to be light enough to hold it with one hand. The weight of this unit is only 3.64 lbs. Therefore, you can work a long time with it without feeling any fatigue.

Maintenance requirement

Dewalt DCD771C2 cordless drill has no maintenance requirement. If you use it properly, it can give you service for a long without any interruption. However, you need to keep the machine clean and organized. If you do not use the drill for long, then recharge the battery at least once every three months.

Battery

Dewalt DCD771C2 is run by a 20-volt max powerful lithium-ion battery. It means, it is equivalent to an 18-volt battery but you can get the highest voltage of 20V from it. The nominal voltage of the battery is 18 volt. If you do not know much about these technicalities, you may read my article on the differences among 12 volt, 18 volt, and 20 volt batteries of power tools. The battery capacity is 1.3 Ampere hour which is not bad. You will get a compact charger with it as well. Overall, the reviews of the users regarding battery life and power consistency are great.

Motor

The motor of the Dewalt dcd771c2 cordless drill is of moderate quality. Although it is not brushless, the lithium-ion battery gives it at least 75% more run time. The motor of this Dewalt drill gives 300 unit watt out of power. It is an indicator that this DCD771C2 cordless drill is capable of handling almost any kind of home project with a maximum of 530 inch-pounds of torque.

Accessories

What free accessories do you get with this Dewalt DCD771C2 cordless drill? Most importantly, you will get two lithium-ion batteries that are required to run this drill. It will save you enough money as the batteries are the most expensive accessories of power tools. It also comes with a handy carrying bag that you will not get with most of the other cordless drills. The bag is durable and a good option to keep the drill and the accessories organized. Other than these, you will get the battery charger.

Dewalt DCD771C2 – areas to improve

From the reviews of the users, I see that most of them are quite happy with the performance of this cordless drill. All the negative comments I have found was about the battery. All the problems had a common pattern. The batteries went dead after using a few days. Therefore, I would recommend checking the batteries thoroughly when you purchase this DCD771C2 model. If the batteries do not fail in the first few days, then you may expect that they have no problem. However, even if you find any issues with the batteries, you may claim the 90 days money-back guarantee. They will refund you with no question asked. Other than this little issue, I do not find anything worth mentioning.

Comparison of Dewalt DCD771C2 with other similar cordless drills

Dewalt DCD771C2 vs Dewalt DCD777C2

Although the model numbers are quite similar, these two cordless drills have features that are quite different. The first major difference I would like to discuss is the motor quality.  DCD777C2 has a superior brushless motor while the counterpart has a regular motor. A brushless motor runs more smoothly and consumes less power. Therefore, DCD777C2 will have at least 30 percent more runtime. The wattage of this model is 200 that is around 33% less than that of the counterpart. But the torque you get from these two is almost the same.

The weight and dimension are other differentiating features of these two models. The weight and dimension of DCD777C2 are 2.6 lbs and 12.5 x 3.75 x 9.81 consecutively. Therefore, it is lighter and smaller than the counterpart. If you are counting on portability and compactness, then I would recommend you Dewalt DCD777C2.

Because of the better-quality motor and compact feature, DCD777C2 has a higher price tag that is justified. All other features of these two cordless drills are quite similar. Both of the models have lithium-ion batteries, they produce almost the same amount of torque and speed. Therefore, in terms of application, both are almost equal.

Dewalt DCD771C2 vs Dewalt DCD708C2

There are few major differences between DCD771C2 and DCD708C2 models of the Delwat cordless drill. Motor quality is the major difference I would say. For example, DCD708C2 has a brushless motor which creates more torque and speed. The motor power of DCD708C2 is 340 that is also higher as expected. As the motor quality is better, DCD708C2 has a higher price tag as well.

Other than the motor and the subsequent torque and speed, DCD708C2 weighs more than the DCD771C2 model. The weight of this unit is 5.6 lbs. It is almost 60 percent heavier than the other. Therefore, weight is a concern for you, then you should go with the 771C2 model.

Other than these, both of the cordless drills have keyless chuck having a dimension of ½ inch. Both of the drills will give you the same accessories. They come with 2 good quality lithium-ion batteries. Finally, if you intend to use the drill for heavy projects, then the 708C2 model is preferable. Otherwise, for regular residential jobs, 771C2 is quite sufficient.

Dewalt DCD771C2 vs Dewalt DCD791D2

Dewalt DCD791D2 is a far better cordless drill if we compare it with the DCD771C2 model. When it comes to the point of motor, then DCD791D2 has a superior brushless motor that produces less noise and gives higher runtime. Although both of the drills have two different gear settings, DCD791D2 produces higher speeds as expected. It can produce a maximum of 2000 rpm at no load.

The power rating of the DCD791D2 cordless drill is 460 where the counterpart has only 300. Therefore, it can produce higher torque and therefore, capable of handling heavy-duty operations. Although both of the models have an inbuilt LED light, the light of the DCD791D2 model is far brighter. Both of the models have almost similar weight. But the dimension of DCD791D2 is far more than the DCD771C2 model. Therefore, it is not good for portability and is not considered as compact. Another important difference between these two models is the battery capacity. Dewalt DCD791D2 has batteries with 2.0 AH capacity where the counterpart has only 1.3 AH. Therefore, it is expected that the D2 model will run much longer.

Pros and cons of Dewalt DCD771C2

Advantages

This Dewalt cordless drill is constructed with durable steel. It is compact and lightweight as well. For different drilling and driving projects, it allows you two different speed options. The motor of this unit is durable and sturdy. It has an ergonomic handle to ensure your comfort and safety during operation. The price of this unit is also less than the generated value.

Disadvantages

Although it is sturdy enough to do the jobs for your home, I will not recommend it for heavy-duty projects. Other than this, it is difficult to find a drawback of this Dewalt cordless drill DCD771C2.

What users say about Dewalt DCD771C2

I have found both positive and negative comments from the reviews of the users. But I would say, around 95 percent of users provided a positive review. A common experience of the users is the adaptation of the cordless drill. They were the users of the corded version. But now they are satisfied with this model that they do not want to go back to corded drills. It comes with two batteries. Therefore, they do not need to worry about power.

Another group of the uses liked it as a home grade cordless drill. It is light and compact. Therefore, it is very easy to handle this drill even if you are not a professional. Any kind of project that you do at home, can be performed quite comfortably with this unit according to this group of users.

A common issue that the uses shared is that this Dewalt cordless drill does not have any compartment to hold the spare drill bits. Therefore, when the uses are at the top of the ladder, for example, it becomes difficult to change the drill bit and put a new one.

Dewalt DCD771C2 FAQ

Can I use it for drilling concrete?

Dewalt produces different types of cordless drills for different purposes. This unit is a basic cordless drill from Dewalt that should not be used for frequent concrete drilling. It is not a hammer drill. Therefore, you can use this drill for everyday home drilling and driving except for heavy-duty uses. The unit watt out (UWO) of this unit is 300. I would recommend higher UWO for drilling objects like concrete.

Is the motor of this drill brushed or brushless?

The motor of this unit is a regular type. Therefore, the price of this drill is reasonable. There are different versions of similar cordless drills from Dewalt where they produce a similar product with a brushless motor. A brushless motor is important for better performance and runtime. But as this type of motor is expensive, the price of the drill will be higher if you want this feature.

What is the quality of the battery of this drill?

This cordless drill from Dewalt comes with two Li-ion batteries. The capacity of the batteries is 1.3 ampere-hour. The maximum voltage of these batteries is 20 volts where the nominal voltage is 18 volts. A lithium-ion battery is a better option among all other battery types. However, the capacity of the battery of this unit is not quite satisfactory.

Can this drill produce variable speeds?

This drill can produce two different speeds. The maximum speeds at different gear options are 450 and 1500 respectively. The lower gear setting should be chosen for drilling and driving lighter objects. You will perform the majority of the drilling tasks with this speed. However, heavier tasks are performed with the higher speed setting. But if you require higher torque, then lower speed should be selected.

Bottom line

I think now you have a comprehensive idea about Dewalt DCD771C2 cordless drill for this review. Dewalt produces the best quality cordless drill among all the manufacturers. This company has some common features that they maintain in all the cordless drills they produce. Although it is not an expensive drill compared to other models, it has some features that you find in a premium cordless drill. The quality of the battery, the size, and dimension, speed, and torque of this unit have made it one of the most suitable cordless drill that you expect for your home projects.

Drill bits can be of hundreds of different types based on the construction, orientation, and application. A professional plumber uses different types of drill bits for his everyday drills. If you are a homeowner, you may also have experienced drill bits of varying types. Have you ever thought about what a drill bit is made of? In this article, we will try to find the answer to this question.

Materials That Are Used To Manufacture Drill Bits

The material to produce drill bits should be hard enough to withstand powerful operations. Steel is a preferred alloy because it is hard and comparatively less brittle. It is an alloy that is composed of different metals to having a different composition.

Steel

High carbon steel- This carbon alloy has a carbon content of more than 0.3%. Drill bits made of high carbon steel are durable and hard. These are used to cut soft to hard objects such as woods and metals. Drill bits made of high carbon steel have tempering treatment. They can lose the tempering if overheated.

Low carbon steel – Low or mid carbon steel contains carbon ranging from 0.05 to 0.3%. The advantage of using low carbon steel as a material of drill bit is that it is cheap. But the tensile strength is not as good as the high carbon steel.  Drill bits made of low carbon steel are used for soft objects such as wood. If you want to enhance the lifespan, then you should sharpen the drill bits made of low carbon steel.

High-speed steel – This is also a kind of steel that is harder than high carbon steel. High-speed steel is higher heat resistant. When you work at high speed, then it may produce a high temperature. Drill bits made of high-speed steel are designed to withstand these kinds of operations. Concrete, metal, and hard woods are materials that need special kinds of drill bits that are made of this kind of material. Read our article to know about the difference between concrete and wood drill bits.

Material other than steel

Tungsten carbide – carbides are extremely hard materials. The problem with carbide is that it is brittle. Therefore, tungsten carbide is used to prepare drill bits in a limited way. Tips of the drill bits and small pieces of bits are produced with tungsten carbide. These small drill tips are used to make holes with very small diameters.

Polycrystalline diamond – It is the hardest material on earth. Diamond crystalline is used on a suitable metal alloy to give a super hard structure. Therefore, drill bits that are made of this compound are highly resistant to wear.

Coating material

The coating is necessary to give the drill bits a smooth surface so that it gets lubricity. On top of that, it protects the surface of the drill bits from corrosion. It is important to enhance the life of the drill bits.

Black oxide – It is one of the most inexpensive black coatings to provide the necessary quality such as lubricity, heat resistance, and so on.

Diamond powder – Sometimes you need an abrasive surface for cutting hard and sophisticated materials such as tiles, stones, glass, and so on. Due to the friction during operation, a lot of heat is generated. Therefore, we often see manual water cooling to prevent the drill bit from damage.  

Titanium alloy – Different types of Titanium alloy is used for coating the drill bits. Titanium nitride is a common alloy for coating high-speed steel. It enhances the cutting life of the drill bits. Even if you sharpen it, it still provides you with improved cutting experience. Apart from this, Titanium aluminum nitride and titanium carbon nitride are also common titanium alloys that are widely used during the coating of drill bits.

Other coating material – Zirconium alloy is also used as a coating material for drill bits. But a few selective brands use it. Besides, chromium alloy is also common as a coating material for the drill bits.

Bottom line

The material of the drill bits consists of the main construction material and the surface coating. Both are important for longevity and performance. Before purchasing drill bits for a specific project, the construction material should be checked. Wrongly selected one may get damaged just after using a few times. The drill bit should be chosen as per the type of object that you work with.

What are the differences between a cordless drill and an impact driver? Although these are related terms, we often get confused about the proper function and construction of these two popular power tools. In this article, I am going to compare a cordless drill vs an impact driver so that you can understand the differences properly.

The difference between these two tools is similar to the differences between a regular hammer and a sledgehammer. These two tools are similar in construction but the function and application are not the same. In many occasions, we can either use a cordless drill or an impact driver, but the specific uses of these tools in particular situations are different.

Differences Between A Cordless Drill And An Impact Driver

At first glance, it is difficult to differentiate a cordless drill and an impact driver. However, some distinct differences differentiate these power tools.

You can find the comparison between these two tools by the size. An impact driver is comparatively smaller in size. Although it will produce higher torque and powerful punch.

Clutch is another distinguishing feature of the cordless drill that is absent in an impact driver. The torque of a cordless drill is controlled by the clutch. Because of this variable torque, it prevents the drill from over-tightening the fasteners. Thus, it prevents objects from unwanted damage.

Keyed or keyless chuck is another feature of a cordless drill that differentiate it from an impact driver. Instead of a chuck, an impact driver has a collet that retains the hex bits. The bits are specially produced to withstand higher torque and force.

When it comes to power and speed, an impact driver is a winner. The interesting fact is that, when there is a resistance, an impact driver produces more power and torque automatically. Usually, it has only one gear but multiple gears are not very uncommon.

A cordless drill can produce rotation and hitting blows simultaneously that make the drill suitable for drilling hard objects. On the other hand, an impact driver uses all its power to drive the fasteners. Therefore, it is suitable for this purpose only.

Cordless drills are delicate for precise jobs. You can not get a similar precise output with an impact driver. Therefore, a cordless drill can be used for different purposes. You can control the torque with the slip clutch. An impact driver does not have a clutch to produce variable torque.

Pros And Cons – Cordless Drill Vs Impact Driver

Advantages

Cordless drills are good for using for multipurpose projects. It is a better choice if you need precise care during drilling. There varying types of drill bits that you can use with a cordless drill. During operation, the torque you get is constant. However, you can select a suitable torque as per the needs of the project. The price of a cordless drill is relatively cheaper than an impact driver.

On the other hand, impact drivers are more powerful tools that can drive the longest screw into the thickest material with the concussive blows. As it is smaller, it is suitable for workplaces with limited space. The power of the impact driver directly passes through the screws. Therefore, there is little impact on the user’s arm and wrist.

Disadvantages

A common problem with a cordless drill is the stripping of screws. Cordless drills are not good at working with large fasteners. Drill bits are often seen to come loose from the chuck. Controlling a cordless drill is comparatively difficult. For the new users, it may even cause injury on the arms and wrist.

On the other hand, an impact driver can be too good for delicate jobs. These are more powerful. Therefore, precise jobs are difficult to accomplish with these tools. Not all kinds of bits are compatible with impact drivers. You can only work with hex shanked bits.

Application of a cordless drill and an impact driver

Cordless drill

1. Cordless drills are suitable for making holes in soft surfaces.
2. If you want to drive screw or fasteners into soft materials in a limited way, then a cordless drill is a preferred tool.
3. Although loosening and tightening screws and bolts are not the only job of a cordless drill, it can perform it with ease and grace if the required torque is not that much.

Impact driver

1. If you want to drive fasteners and screws with a large diameter than an impact driver is the perfect power tool.
2. Impact drivers are tools for the bots, fasteners, and screws. Therefore, if you want to drive these through dense materials, then impact drivers are the best tools.
3. If there is a tightly fitted bolt or the screw that you can not loosen with the regular driver, then the impact driver is the problem solver.

Example of a great cordless drill – Dewalt 20-volt max

Dewalt produces the most versatile and reliable cordless drills. You can learn the features of a cordless drill from this example. This 20-volt max unit is one of the best options in the market. The brand itself declares that you are going to get a good experience from it. With the 3 years of warranty, the manufacturer bolsters the confidence of the consumers. With the use of the hammer mode, you can use this unit while working with tough projects.  You can switch between hammer mode to regular mode any moment you wish. For a versatile drill like this, controlling the torque is important. You can do so with the adjustable clutch setting.

Sometimes you need to operate the drill in one hand. This lightweight drill from Dewalt is suitable for working in compact projects. You can even operate it while working on a ladder or working in odd positions. Among all these advantages you get from this drill, the only disadvantage is the price. But you will get exactly how much you pay.

Example of a great impact driver – Dewalt 20 Volt max

Like the cordless drill, Dewalt produces great quality impact drivers. This 20-volt tool is one of the best choices in the market for different reasons. The battery of this unit is comparatively thin. It also gets recharged faster than other comparative models. It weighs only 2.8 lbs. Therefore, it is easy to operate. The 20-volt battery is enough for producing torque as high as 1400 inch-pound. It also has a built-in LED light for the project where external illumination is necessary.

Can an impact driver replace a cordless drill?

Absolutely no. An impact driver is a popular power tool because it can produce unbelievably high torque. Its brute force is sometimes necessary for a specific type of project. Sometimes, excessive torque can be detrimental. Therefore, we do not always need it. Rather, the moderate power of a cordless drill is sometimes good for projects that do not require excessive force. Versatility is such a feature of a cordless drill that has made it suitable for almost any kind of project. But for the projects where higher torque is required, you need an impact driver.

Bottom line

I think now you can compare between a cordless drill and an impact driver. I would suggest you get both the power tools for everyday projects. But if you want to get only one for now, then I would suggest getting the cordless drill which is good for versatile projects. If tightening and fastening are your prime job, then an impact driver is the recommended tool for you.

You may have heard this term ‘compact drill’ if you are a frequent user of power tools. In this article, I am going to elaborate on what a compact drill is. When you intend to purchase, you may encounter many different types of drills that may make you confused. Therefore, you should know the frequently used terms like this.

Defining a compact drill

The compact drill is a type of drill that we use for projects where regular drills are difficult to operate due to space constraints. Ordinary drills are bulkier. Therefore, these are not suitable for working in tiny spaces. On the contrary, compact drills are smaller. For this reason, these are fit for tight and angular areas. There is no defined specific size for a compact drill. But in general, they are smaller than regular ordinary bulkier drills.

Features of a compact drill

Some compact drills have rotating heads. Therefore, you can adjust the position of the drill even though it can not enter the working place properly. The flashlight is also a common feature of a compact drill that you can expect. As the difficult to reach places are often dark, in-built illumination is a great help. Magnetic heat is also an expected feature of a compact drill. You may need to pass the drill through a tiny space. Therefore, you may not be able to use both of your hands while working with a screw. In this situation, the magnetic feature will make the job easy for you.

What is the use of a compact drill?

Have you faced difficulties working with a small cupboard or a cabinet? It is a very common problem that the tools and accessories can not be used properly if there is an angle. If the working area is too tiny, then you may face the same problem. Compact drills are designed in a way so that you can handle it onehandedly if necessary. Some people do not require a big and heavy drill. For example, for construction workers, a drill is a tool that has to use too frequently. Therefore, instead of a regular machine, a compact drill is preferable for him. Persons who need to carry a toolbox should also prefer a small and compact drill instead of bulkier ones to accommodate all the necessary tools.

Types of Compact Drills

Compact drills can be divided into two broad categories – corded and cordless. Corded compact drills are more powerful than cordless ones. But the problem is the dangling cords that may not be suitable for all working sites. On the other hand, you will enjoy the full compactness with the cordless ones. The problem with this type is limited battery capacity. Therefore, for a longer project, you should keep spare batteries with you to carry out the work relentlessly.

Our suggested compact drills

BLACK+DECKER Corded Electric Drill

If you are budget concerned, then BLACK+DECKER corded compact drill is a better suggestion for you. The amperage of the motor of this unit is 4 amp that will give you the required power to get the job done. It prevents the overdriving of the screws with the 11 position clutches. It is suitable for the persons who need to work constant types of tiny projects and the working frequency is high. Therefore, a wired compact drill is preferable not to fall short of juice.

Bosch PS32-02 Cordless Drill Driver

One of my favorite brands in a compact drill is Bosch. This PS32-02 model small cordless drill weighs only 2 pounds which is impressive. Although the voltage of the battery is only 12V, the brushless motor ensures the least amount of power consumption. The highest speed that you get with this drill is 1300 rpm. At high torque setting, the maximum achievable speed is 400 rpm. The total number of the clutch setting of this unit is 21 that is impressive for a tiny little cordless drill.

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill

If you need a compact yet powerful drill machine, then this DEWALT 20V model is just perfect. The weight of this unit is only 2.6 pounds. The maximum torque that you get with it is 500-inch pounds. It is more than enough power that you expect from a smaller drill. It has an inbuilt LED to illuminate the darker places. To cover a wide range of operations, it will provide you 340 units of watt output. Overall, it is not only suitable for a specialized project but also other simple drilling and driving works.

Bottom line

So, what is a compact drill? I think now you have a comprehensive idea about it. The type of drill you need depends on the work you do. Therefore, before deciding on a compact drill, assess your requirement, and then decide.

What’s the differences between a corded vs cordless drill? The obvious reason will be portability. If you set the battery in the cordless drill, you are free to move anywhere you like. On the other hand, most of the DIY’ers will not like the extension cord of a corded drill.

In this article, I will take you through the difference between a corded and cordless drill so that you understand the advantages and disadvantages of these two major types of drills. After the read, it will help you decide on the appropriate type of drill that is most suitable for your specific projects. Therefore, whether you are thinking to buy the both type of drills or sticking to any specific one, this article is going to be a great help for you.

Differentiating Attributes

Power

Although power is not everything to measure the drilling capacity, it is a very useful determinant. We always expect a power tool to be more powerful. Corded drills get the advantage of 110-volt alternating current as they are powered by our electricity line directly. On the contrary, cordless drills use the battery as a power source. The usual voltage rating of the batteries varies from 12 volts to 20 volts.

What is the relationship between voltage and power? In general, if the amperage of the motor is constant, a higher voltage will generate more power. For example, if the amp rating of the motor of a corded drill is 8A, then the calculated power will be 110V X 8A or 880 watts. We know that power is calculated from the multiplication of voltage and ampere. As the voltage of a cordless drill is 20V at most, therefore, the power we get from it will be substantially lower than the corded counterpart.

Today’s cordless drills are designed in a way that you get the maximum power out of the resources. For example, the maximum watt output of a DeWalt cordless drill is 300. It is way less than the power of our previous example. Although power is not the only measure of the performance of a drill, a more powerful drill will increase the speed and torque.

Other differentiating attributes between a corded and cordless drill

Power is not the only determinant when we choose a drill machine. Let’s find out some other important features that differentiate these two types of power tools.

Convenience

Cordless drills are convenient over the corded ones. You just need to carry the charged batteries and the drill is ready to work. There is no need to think about the dangling wire and power socket. With a cordless drill, you will get almost the same facilities of the corded cousin such as magnetic bits, different speed options, and so on. It is more suitable for DIY projects. Contractors like the cordless drills for easy jobs.  

Long term use

If you want more power for doing something consistently for a long time, then the corded drill will be a perfect choice. Corded drills are more durable. Therefore, these are suitable in the long run. The juice is never-ending as you will get a power grid everywhere. On the other hand, a battery-powered drill will be useless until the battery is charged properly. Because of the consistent power, you will get a consistent and uniform torque with the corded drill. Therefore, it will be a better choice if the projects are with harder objects such as metal and concrete. It will give you more confidence when dealing with hard nuts.

Lifespan

Although a cordless drill is suitable for small and quick works, it is not suitable for infrequent projects. If you anticipate that you will use the drill only a few times in a year, then you should prefer a corded one. When we keep the battery idle for a long time, it gets permanently damaged that can not be fully recovered. On the other hand, battery-powered drills are not suitable for very frequent projects. A battery has a certain limited charge and discharge cycle. Therefore, if we use it too often, then the limited cycle life gets decayed quickly. Hence, if you want a longer lifespan with your cordless drill, then the usage pattern should be moderate. Otherwise, you should go with the corded one.

Cordless drill in detail

Types of cordless drill

We can divide the cordless drill into four different categories. The first one is the drill or driver. It is the primary or standard type of drill that we use for making holes or driving screws on objects. Standard cordless drills can only handle simple and light objects such as plastic, wood, and metal sheet.

The second type of cordless drill is the hammer drill. The working principle of this kind of drill is similar to the previous one. The difference is that it has an in-built ‘hammer’ setting that allows it to work on tough materials such as concrete, wall, stone, and so on. To give it extra power, hammer drills are heavier than a regular cordless drill.

A rotary hammer is another type of hammer drill that uses air pressure to produce sufficient power. These are also heavier and bigger and produce more power than hammer drills. The cost of this kind of drill is more than a regular hammer drill.

Impact drivers are the last types of drills that are used to fasten and loosen the bolts and screws. You can also use these to make a hole in soft surfaces.

Battery options

As you know that the cordless drill will use batteries to power it up, there are two different types of batteries that the manufacturers use these days. Lithium-ion and Nickel-Cadmium are the two types of batteries that you will find in the market for cordless drills. I would prefer the first one that is more environmentally friendly and less toxic.

Voltage is a clear indicator of the torque of a drill. Therefore, if you expect more torque, then choose the drill that has a battery with a higher voltage. You will also find batteries with different AH rating. I would suggest choosing the higher AH to get longer battery life and consistent torque.

Features of a cordless drill

A battery-powered drill has no wire. It is one of the major reasons that people like this type of drill so much. Because it has no cord to connect it with the power supply, it has a powerful battery as a source of power. The ergonomic handle is another important feature of a cordless drill.

With speed control, you can change the speed with the help of the trigger. Whatever the speed is, you should grip the handle firmly. Because of the absence of wire, it is portable. You can fit different bits and accessories with it as per the requirement of the project.

What are the benefits of a cordless drill?

I would say that mobility and portability is the greatest advantage of a cordless drill. Mobility has made it the best option for contractors and electricians for simple projects where no electric socket is available. Because a cordless drill is operated by battery, you will have a lot of power options to choose from. Therefore, you can control the drill more accurately and precisely as per the need of the project. The lack of cord also makes the drill easy to handle and store. The variable speed option makes it more suitable for specific projects.

Disadvantages of a cordless drill

A cordless drill is less powerful than a corded one. Therefore, these are not a suitable option for projects that need to deal with robust objects. Once the charge of the battery is gone, you can not use it until you recharge the battery. Therefore, you can not use it for a longer time. You can not leave the drill unused for a long time either because the battery will get permanently damaged if it is not under operation often. Another drawback of a cordless drill is the price. It is usually more expensive than the corded counterpart.

Corded drill

Types of the corded drill

Corded drills can be divided into four different categories. Standard corded drill or drivers are the regular types that you can use for drilling most of the projects. But for cracking the hard nuts, you need the hammer type corded drill that can deal with concrete and stone. The rotary drill is a specialty drill that we use for heavy-duty projects. If you want to reach the corners or angels, then the corded angle drill is the perfect tool to use.

Features of a corded drill

Wired drills are the tools that we use for making holes or demolishing objects such as wood, concrete, metal, or stone. Instead of the battery, a wired drill is powered by electricity. It has different grip options so that we can firmly handle it during operation. You can use additional accessories with a corded drill to get the required output as per the needs of a specific project.

Advantages of a corded drill

Corded drills can generate more power because of the higher voltage electricity supply. We know that torque is a factor of power. If you need more torque, you need to supply more power. Wired drills are ahead of wireless drills in terms of robustness. You do not need to think about going out of the juice as the power you get from the source is never-ending. Corded drills are better for projects that have angles and difficult to reach. The price of this kind of drill is relatively cheap.

Disadvantages of a wired drill

Precision and control of a wired drill are not as good as the cordless one. Therefore, if you are a beginner, then a corded drill will not be suitable for you. Contractors or mechanics who need mobility, may not like a wired drill because you will not find an electric socket everywhere. It is not convenient to store. A corded drill is not easy to handle, hence, it is more prone to injuries.  

Corded vs cordless: which one is suitable for you?

After the discussion above, it is clear to us that cordless drills are suitable for beginners. If you do not use a drill too often, then you can go for it. But remember the battery health always. Do not leave the drill unused for more than a month. Although the manufacturers may claim that the drill can hold the charge for a longer time. For mobile contractors or electricians should also go for a wireless drill. But for a fixed job, a corded version is most suitable. If you do the same project on and on again, then a wired drill is the perfect tool for you. Battery power is limited. Therefore, for a constant and frequent job, a wired drill is more suitable. If power is your concern, then the corded drill is a batter deal. Therefore, the demolishing of stones and concretes should be done by this kind of drill.

Our suggested drills

Now as you know about the pros and cons of wireless and wired drills, I’m sure that you know about which one is suitable for you. You cannot straightway tell any specific type as good or bad. The selection of the type of drill is dependent on the type of project. Below is the suggestion of some popular corded and cordless drill to help you choose the right tool accordingly.

BLACK+DECKER Corded Drill

It is a great deal for you if you like it to be inexpensive but still effective. You can change the speed during you are operating it. The chuck size of this unit is 3/8 inches. The motor of this unit has an amperage of 5.5A. The variable speed of this unit is up to 1500 rpm. There is an on-board bit storage system. Therefore, you can get access to the bits instantly without any delay.

DEWALT VSR Electric Drill

Another good example of the corded drill is DEWALT VSR. It is more powerful than the previous one with an 8A motor. You will get the maximum speed of 2500 rpm with this unit that makes it suitable for tough projects. For bit retention, it has 3/8 inches metal and keyless chuck. Although powerful, it is small and lightweight. It weighs only around 4 lbs. Therefore, you can store and carry it comfortably.

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill

If you are looking for a good suggestion for a cordless drill, then DEWALT is the obvious name. This 20V wireless drill is one of the most powerful in the battery-powered category. There is a 3-mode spotlight option to guide you during operation. It also has a variable speed option for different project types. The type of motor is ‘brushless’. Therefore, it will consume less power to provide you around 57% more run time. Although it is one of the most powerful wireless drills in the market, it is lightweight and handy.

BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Matrix Cordless Drill/Driver

If you are looking for an inexpensive cordless drill, then this BLACK+DECKER 20V model is for you. This unit has a 20-volt battery to power the machine up. It is lightweight and compact to allow you to work in confined places. It uses a lithium-ion battery as the power source that is environmentally friendly and less toxic. Overall, it is a great option to choose for the beginner for infrequent projects.

FAQ – Questions that people ask frequently regarding cordless and corded drills

Can I make a hole on a metal object with a drill?

It depends on the type of metal object you are dealing with. A thin metal sheet is good to go for any kind of drill machine. But if the metal object is thick, then you should go with a powerful corded drill because this type of drill is more suitable for heavy and hard objects.

Which type of drill is better for the beginner?

I would say that wireless drills are more suitable for beginners. The reason is the toughness of the corded drill. A wired drill is powerful and not easy to handle. If you do not need to deal with objects such as concrete and stone, then you should go with the wireless type as this type of drill is easy to handle, lightweight and handy.

For a mobile technician, cordless or corded, which type of drill is preferred?

Wireless drills are preferred for mobile technicians. For wired kind of drill, you need a power socket to power up the drill. You do not know for sure that you are going to get the electric supply near your workplace. For this reason, if the nature of the job suits, then an itinerant worker should go with a wireless drill.

Is cordless drill more powerful?

As the voltage of the AC current is higher, the ultimate power is higher for the wired drill. We know that power is the function of voltage and ampere. Therefore, the cordless drill will be more powerful because of the nature of the fuel we use for it. On the other hand, the voltage of the wireless drill is not constant. With the decay of the battery capacity, the voltage declines. Therefore, power and torque are not always constant. To get the best output, a cordless drill should be fully charged before use.

Bottom line

The corded vs cordless drill debate is never-ending. We can not declare any specific type as the winner. In one short sentence, if power is your concern, then go for corded one. But in most home and outdoor mobile projects, cordless drills are a more suitable option.

Cordless drills come with batteries having different configurations. The voltage of the battery can be anything among 12V, 18V, and 20V. In this article, I am going to compare 12 volt vs 18 volt vs 20 volt cordless drill. It will be an important read for the persons who are in confusion regarding which variant will be suitable for them.

If you usually carry out simple projects at home, it is not wise to get a powerful heavy-duty tool. To ensure the maximum value out of your money, it is necessary to choose the tool rightly.

18 volt vs 20 volt power tool – are they any different?

Both of the power tools have batteries with the same arrangement. The battery has five unit cells having the nominal voltage of 3.6V each. Therefore, when you multiply 5 with this 3.6 volts, you get the total voltage of 18. This is the nominal voltage. But the maximum voltage that the unit cell can give is around 4 volts. Therefore, multiplying it with 5, we get 20 volts. It is the maximum voltage rating of the battery. Therefore, the construction of an 18 volt and a 20-volt battery is no different.

The voltage rating declaration may vary from location to location. For example, in the United States, you will find power tools with 20-volt max batteries. The manufacturers use to sell the same tool in Europe just changing the naming of voltage rating to 18 V. In Europe, the market trend is 18 volt, not 20-volt max.

Before I go into deep, I want to unveil a secret that many of you do not know.

12 volt vs 18 volt vs 20-volt comparison

Power

It is generally equivalent to the voltage. More voltage will give you higher power if the motor amperage is the same. Therefore, a 12V cordless toll is the least and the 20V tool is the most powerful. Less power does not necessarily mean that drill can not perform regular jobs. Today’s lithium-ion technology will give you an output of 20-volt drill in a 12-volt compact tool. A light-duty technician or a carpenter should choose a 12-volt drill as the nature of the job needs a little to moderate power. For more powerful and heavy-duty projects, 18 or 20 volt machine is a better deal.

Torque

Speed and torque constitute the power of a drill. Therefore, it is not always true that a powerful drill has higher torque. But in general, if you want higher torque for heavy-duty operations, then a powerful tool is recommended. For example, wireless drills with 20-volt batteries usually have the highest torque. Therefore, these are more appropriate for objects like concrete and stone.

Size and weight

If we compare the size among the 12, 18, and 20-volt cordless drills, then the 12 volt one is the most compact. The size of an 18v and 20v drill is comparable. Therefore, if you are working with objects such as angular furniture, then a 12-volt drill is better for you.

As the size of a 20 volt drill is the most, therefore, it is the heaviest among the three. If you are a technician or electrician who needs to travel a lot, then a compact and the lightweight 12-volt tool will be suitable for you. However, if the power is your concern, then you can choose between 20v or 18v.

Other important features of a 12V, 18V and 20V cordless drill

Battery Capacity

There is no limitation that a battery with a lower voltage will necessarily be of lower capacity ( AH). But as the drill with 12 v battery is smaller, it has a battery with less juice (AH). Usually, you will find batteries of 12 volts with a capacity of around 2 AH. But 18 volt or 20-volt batteries have a wide range of capacity – from around 5 Ah to 9 AH. Capacity indicates the total charge. More capacity will allow the tool to run for a longer time. Therefore, if you want a longer run time, then you should choose a battery with a higher capacity.

Is the run time of a 12 V cordless drill lower than a 20 V drill? Not necessarily. Although the capacity of a 12 V battery is lower than that of a 20 V or 18 V one, the motor amperage is also lower for a 12-volt tool. Therefore, it will consume a lower current than that of a motor of a 20-volt drill. The runtime for a smaller drill will be lower but not proportionately lower than that of a 20-volt drill. If you are a professional, then I would suggest you keep a backup battery. When the main battery will get exhausted, you can continue working with the spare one.

Charging time

A power tool with 12-volt battery will charge faster than the tool having a battery of 18 V or 20 V. The reason is simple. Because of the higher capacity, larger batteries need a longer time to get fully charged. Therefore, when you are using multiple spare batteries for a long project, then this feature becomes vital.

Price

A 12-volt drill contains a battery with the least capacity. It is the smallest as well. Therefore, as we expected, it will cost you the least. The other variants will cost you almost similar according to the AH rating of the battery.

12-Volt Cordless Drill – Appropriate application

If you do such a job where you need to hold the drill for a long period, then a 12-volt tool will be preferred choice as it is lighter. When you need to hold the drill above your head, it creates a lot of pressure on the shoulder. On the other hand, projects where you will have to work against angles, need a smaller and lighter cordless drill. In such cases, a 12-volt drill will be a perfect selection.

Advantages

1. Compactness is the prime advantage of a 12 volt cordless drill. Therefore, it is the preferred choice for mobile contractors and technicians.
2. These are relatively inexpensive.
3. A 12-volt drill is suitable for drilling or driving objects that are angular in shape.

Disadvantages

1. Less battery capacity is a constraint of a 12-volt drill. Therefore, you can not work for a longer time with it.
2. These are less powerful. Therefore, these are not suitable for demolishing hard materials such as stones.

18-Volt or 20-volt Cordless Drill – Appropriate application

If you need power, then a 20-volt cordless drill is an obvious choice. Other than power, it will give you constant power supply for a long time. Therefore, projects where you need to work with the drill for long, need a drill with higher capacity like these.

Advantages

1. 18 or 20-volt cordless drills are powerful. These are capable of producing higher torque and rotation. Therefore, these are suitable for demolishing and heavy-duty projects.
2. Higher battery capacity is a great advantage of a 20-volt tool. You will not go out of juice in a very short period like a 12-volt counterpart.
3. Higher AH gives you a consistent torque.

Disadvantages

1. A 20 or 18-volt cordless drill is heavier compared to a 12-volt counterpart.
2. These are relatively expensive.

Our recommended models

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill

[su_note note_color=”#ffffff” text_color=”#282828″ radius=”6″][su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””]

[/su_column][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””]

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill

[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DCD791D2-Li-Ion-Brushless-Compact/dp/B0183RLVSQ?th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=toolstutor-20&linkId=9a92f7eb9f48496991cd248caf7cde2a&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl” target=”blank” style=”stroked” background=”#ed8801″ size=”8″ rel=”nofollow noopener”]Check Latest Price[/su_button]
[/su_column][/su_row][/su_note]

It is one of the most popular 20-volt max cordless drills in the market. The weight of this unit is relatively lower than other comparable models. It weighs only 2.6 lbs. The brushless motor will give you longer battery life and runtime. Along with the main battery, you will get a spare battery with it. Therefore, there is no fear of running out of juice. The maximum torque of this unit is 500 inch-pound that is excellent. It has an in-built illumination system. Therefore, you can work conveniently in darker places.

Bosch PS32-02 12V Cordless Drill Driver

[su_note note_color=”#ffffff” text_color=”#282828″ radius=”6″][su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””]

[/su_column][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””]

Bosch 12 volt PS32-02 Cordless Drill Driver

[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/Bosch-Brushless-PS32-02-Lithium-Ion-Batteries/dp/B00HUCUF4W?&linkCode=ll1&tag=toolstutor-20&linkId=e77ecb276c87977406e58cfc9f5f483d&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl” target=”blank” style=”stroked” background=”#ed8801″ size=”8″ rel=”nofollow noopener”]Check Latest Price[/su_button]
[/su_column][/su_row][/su_note]

A good example of a 12 volt compact and portable drill is Bosch PS32-02. It has a maximum speed of 1300 rpm. The weight of this unit is only 2 pounds. It includes 2 gear and 21 clutch settings. Therefore, there is a variety of options to customize the torque following the type of job. The maximum torque of this unit is 180 inch-pounds. Therefore, it is suitable for light-duty projects.

Bottom line

I think now you have gathered sufficient knowledge from the comparison among the 12 volt, 18 volt, and 20-volt cordless drills. Big numbers on the specification are not always good for you. Therefore, when you are choosing the right cordless drill for you, you should first study the kind of job you are going to use it. If you purchase a 20-volt drill for a light project, it will be a waste. Therefore, educate yourself and decide wisely.

Are concrete and wood drill bits the same? Concrete and wood are two different surfaces. Therefore, when you are drilling into these surfaces, the bits should be different. In this article, I am going to compare the concrete drill bit vs wood drill bit. I will try to differentiate the features and attributes of these two different types of bits so that you find enough reasons for using different drill bits for these two different surfaces.

Concrete and wood drill bits are different from each other in many ways. The materials used are different. The design and durability are also not the same for these two drill bits. I will guide you to the differences in a while. But before going into deep, do you know what a drill is?

Drill bits are metal small accessories of a power tool that we use for making the whole into different kinds of objects such as wool, concrete, stone, metal, and so on. These are usually of different shapes and sizes for different kinds of projects. We need to carefully choose the right one for a specific project. Otherwise, the object may get damaged.

Features that are common in drill bits for wood and concrete

Although drill bits are different in terms of application, there are some common attributes for all. In this section, I am going to discuss these features to give you a basic idea.

1. All drill bits look spiral. The selection of drill bits with a higher or lower twist depends on the rotational speed. If you apply higher speed, then drill bits with a lower twist are better.
2. The point angle is a common attribute of all kinds of drill bits. The angle is higher for harder surfaces. For example, drill bits for concrete may have a point angle of around 150 degrees where drill bits for wood may have a point angle of 100 degrees.
3. Drill bits are cylindrical. The length is dependent on the object that you are going to deal with. Therefore, two identical drill bits can have all the common attributes other than the length.
4. Lip angle is another important feature of a drill bit. It determines how aggressively the bit will work on the surface. A higher bit angle is recommended for harder surfaces.

Attributes of concrete drill bits

Concrete drill bits are made for dealing with hard objects. They are sturdy and durable. Due to the special feature of a concrete drill bit, it can penetrate hard objects that a wood drill bit cannot. When we drill a surface, we should carefully carry out the operation. Otherwise, the object may get damaged. Hard surfaces like concrete are more prone to damage if you do not handle it casually.  

You can drill into the concrete by different kinds of drill bits. The core drill bit is the most common type for this purpose. A core drill bit is usually guided by an additional guide drill bit inside it. The job of the guide is to mark the point where you want to drill and guide the core bit up to half an inch through the concrete. When you reach about 0.5 inches, then you should remove the inner guide drill bit. If you carry out drilling with it, broken concrete may create serious jam and you may not continue drilling. 

The spot drill bit is another good option for concrete. This kind of drill bit is used to spot a hole on hard surfaces where other kinds of drill bits may get dislodged. Spot drill bits have a pointy sharp head that helps the bit work with hard surfaces.

Indexable drill bits are also very useful for dealing with hard surfaces like concrete. They have removable cutting tips. When the cutting edges get dull, then they are replaced with new ones. This kind of drill bits have inserts with cutting edges.

Wood drill bits

These drill bits are manufactured in a way that they do not damage the wooden object during operation. Wood is more sensitive than concrete. Therefore, when making a hole into a wood, the drill bit has some extra responsibility to protect the wood from damage. It also needs to protect the wood from splitting.

Lip and spur drill bits are well known for working with woods. These drill bits have cutting tips that cut the wood perfectly. The twist of this bit is steeper than usual. Because of the deep twist, the hole you make with the lip and spur drill bit is spiral.

Spade drill bits are another type of drill bit that is usually used on wood. It is also used by the plumbers to make large holes for pipes. This drill bit has two flat cutters that produce large and rough holes on the object. You will find this drill bit with different specifications for use in different applications.

Spoon bit is a special drill bit for wood. It is used for making a specific type of shape on the wood. As the name suggests, it looks like a spoon. If you want to make a rough hole polished, then you may use this. The shape of the hole that you get with a spoon drill bit is conical.

The type of drill bit that the woodworkers use depends on the type of job they are doing. There are many other different options that we use for drilling in woods. Augur bits and center bits are also very common that the woodmen frequently use.

Difference between concrete and wood drill bit

From the discussion above, it is clear that a concrete drill bit will be different from a wood drill bit. In this section, I will point out the differences in an organized way.

1. Concreate drill bits are designed to work on hard surfaces. These are sometimes used to work on stone or even on metals. On the other hand, drill bits for woods are not made for hard objects.
2. The torque needed to work with concrete drill bits is high. On the other hand, you do not need so much power to work with a drill bit for wood.
3. As the drill bits for woods are not made for hard objects, you can not use these on concrete. But you can apply the concrete drill bits on wooden objects. Although you need to be careful about clutch settings.
4. As the concrete bits are sturdier, they will cost more than the wood drill bits. The special property to withstand heavy-duty operations makes the concrete drills expensive.

Bottom line

Do you now have enough knowledge about the differences between a concrete drill bit and a wood drill bit? In short, you can use concrete bits wood if you can set the torque perfectly. But the drill bit for wood is not that strong. Therefore, you can not use these for concreate. There are so many different types of concrete and wood drills out there. You should choose the right one as per the application.

If you are new in the world of the cordless drill, then you might have a question in mind – what do the numbers on a cordless drill mean? The numbers indicate the torque setting that defines the rotary power of a drill. For every carpenter, woodworker, electrician, or other users of the power tools, getting acquainted with these numbers is essential. Otherwise, a professional can not get the perfect use of a power tool. Knowing about these numbers is important because you can not properly use the drill without knowing all its functions of it.

In this article, I will explain the clutch setting of a cordless drill. Additionally, I will also explain to you the gear setting and the meaning of the symbols that we commonly see on a drill. You will also know how to set up the torque of a drill for a specific project.

Numbers for torque control

In modern drills, you will see some numbers, usually from 1 to 20 near the head or clutch of a drill. As I have mentioned earlier, it represents the torque of the drill. 1 represents the lowest amount of torque and 20 represents the highest torque. Cordless drills with lower power may come with the highest torque setting of 10. However, it is the range of torque that the drill can produce.

How to adjust the torque

Find the torque adjustment numbers near the chuck of the drill. You will find it near the head and the drill bit. Now find the arrow near the numbers that will allocate the torque. A higher number will assign more torque.

The torque adjustment dial can be rotated clockwise and anticlockwise. Before starting any new project, you need to have a trial to understand the torque and then set it accordingly. At first, set the dial to the lowest number. Usually, the lowest number you will find is ‘1’. Carry out your first drill with this lowest setting to feel the torque.

Now turn the dial to the middle point of the numbers. If the highest number of the clutch setting is 20, then set the torque to 10. Now carry out another drill with the same object according to this setting. Feel the torque and try to compare it with the previous setting. The Clutch of a drill works similarly to a clutch of a car.

Finally, set the dial to the highest torque setting and carry out another drill with the same object. Now compare all the three different feelings that you have got from different torque settings. You can now set the appropriate number whatever you feel is good for you.

There is a misconception that a higher number is better for every kind of drilling project. If you set excessive torque for drilling a lighter object, then you may demolish the object and may not get the required size of the hole. On the other hand, it is difficult to handle the drill in higher torque. Setting a lower torque will make the job tedious. Therefore, you need to set it appropriately to get the best results.

What are the numbers at the gear

You will find the gear setting behind the clutch. Most of the drills have 2 or 3 different setting options. If you set the gear to the lowest number ( for example- 1), then it will provide the lowest speed and highest torque. This setting is suitable for driving screws. If you increase the setting to a higher number ( for example – 2), then it will increase the speed with a lowered torque. This setting is suitable for regular drilling and driving. Any higher gear setting will increase the speed at a lower torque. This setting is suitable for drilling or driving fasteners.

Explanation of some common symbols on the cordless drill

What do we do with a drill machine? We can use it for drilling, driving, or hammering an object. You will find some modern drills that come with three built-in modes for these different functions. When you select any specific mode, the drill will automatically set the required speed and torque for that specific setting.

Drilling symbol

You may find a black and yellow symbol that looks like a drill bit just behind the chuck of the drill. It is the drilling mode. When you are making a hole through a moderately hard object, you should select this mode. The drill will then automatically adjust the required torque and speed that is suitable for drilling operations.

Hammer symbol

Have you noticed a hammer-like symbol beside the drill bit sign? It is for the hammer mode. You can use this mode for drilling hard objects such as stone and concrete. When you select this mode, the drill will automatically set the required torque for these kinds of tough objects. It will also push the drill bit in and out to make the job easier. Therefore, the hammer mode is useful for hard surfaces when you do not want to put enough user pressure. Just change the setting and the dill will take care of the rest.

Driving symbol

You may also find a ‘driver’ bit symbol beside the hammer or drilling sign. This symbol is for converting the drill as a driver so that it perfectly gets the job done without overdriving the screw. When you are driving with a drill, setting the right amount of torque is important. Otherwise, the object may get damaged. Therefore, this automatic mode is a great help for persons who are not sure about the torque.

• Read this article to know how a cordless drill works.

Frequently asked questions about the numbers and symbols on a cordless drill

In this section, I am going to discuss some common questions with answers that people have in their minds regarding the numbers and symbols of a cordless drill whether it is brushless or brushed. I think it will help you understand your drill better.

Can I leave the drill on the highest clutch setting for all kinds of projects?

The majority of the users do not know about the numbers on the clutch. Therefore, they set the clutch at the highest number and leave it forever. Setting it at the highest point will provide you with maximum torque. Therefore, this kind of setting is suitable for drilling hard objects. But if you use the drill for driving fasteners with this kind of setting, then the drill may either damage the fastener or the object you are dealing with. I will advise you to set the number according to the suggestion that I have already mentioned. Use higher torque settings for hard objects and lower torque for driving.

What are the different situations when I need to change the number on the clutch?

As I have already mentioned that the number on the clutch signifies the amount of torque. Different torque setting is required for different situations. For example, you should change the setting for different kinds of material or object you are dealing with. When drilling into a block of concrete, you have to set higher torque compared to the torque you have to set when drilling into wood. Other than this, the external pressure you are giving on the drill and the working angle are also determinants for adjusting the clutch setting.

How the numbers on the clutch signifies the different amounts of torque?

Let me explain this with an example. Assume that a drill has a maximum torque of 1000 inch-pound. If you find 1 to 10 written on the clutch, then the total amount of torque is divided into ten. Therefore, you will get 1/10 of the total torque in each setting and it will be incremental. If you set the least number ( one), then the torque you will get is 1000/10 or 100. If you increase the number by 1, the torque will increase by 100-inch pound. You will get the highest of 1000 torque when you select 10.

Are all the drills have the same number and symbols?

No. It depends on the manufacturer and the capacity of the drill. For example, some drills have 10 clutch settings. Some others may have 15 or 20 depending on the models. You will find some drills that have in-built modes for drilling, driving, and hammering. The gear setting may also be different for different manufacturers and models. But the symbols and number patterns are almost uniform for all kinds of drills.

What is the necessity of changing drilling modes?

Many of the drills come with three different modes – drive, drill, and hammer. If you change the mode as per the type of the project, you do not need to set the torque and speed manually. The tool will automatically set the required torque as per the nature of the job. Therefore, if you do not know how to set the torque or gear, then you can simply change the modes. Operating the drill in the wrong mode may generate sparks as well.

Is there any symbol for reverse?

There is no universal sign for the reverse option. Therefore, manufacturers usually do not use any signs. You will find buttons and triggers of different shapes for reverse speed.

Bottom line

Cordless drill has a hundred years of history. I think now you know what the numbers mean on a cordless or corded drill. Torque plays a vital role in the clutch setting. You can not ignore the numbers on the drill just because you are not a professional. If the setting of the drill does not match perfectly with the type of project, the object may get damaged. If you have read the article thoroughly, you have noticed that it is not rocket science to know about the signs and symbols of a cordless drill. Therefore, my final suggestion to the user is that, know about the numbers theoretically and apply them to have hands-on experience.

Related article

Recommended cordless drill at or below $100.

Recommended cordless drill at or below $50.

Know how to convert a cordless drill into corded.