Handheld Power Drills

Best Handheld Power Drills in the UK: A Practical Buyer's Guide and Where to Shop

Why a Good Handheld Drill Matters

Think of a handheld drill as the Swiss Army knife of the workshop — it’s the tool you reach for first and the one that either makes a job feel like a breeze or a slog. Whether you’re hanging shelves, assembling flat-pack furniture, or renovating a room, the right handheld drill saves time, reduces mistakes, and keeps frustration at bay. I’ll walk you through what matters, point out the best UK places to buy, and help you match a drill to your needs so you don’t waste money on bells and whistles you’ll never use.

Cordless vs Corded: Which One Fits Your Projects?

Choosing between cordless and corded drills is like picking between a gas car and an electric one — both get you where you need to go, but one offers freedom while the other offers steady, unlimited power. The decision comes down to the kind of work you do and where you do it.

Cordless Drills

Cordless drills are perfect for general DIY, outdoor jobs, and quick fixes where reaching an outlet would be a pain. They’re portable, usually lighter in weight, and modern batteries mean you can go longer between charges. Expect to see models in shops across the UK from brands like DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, Ryobi, and Milwaukee. Look for an 18V or 20V class for solid all-around performance — it’s like the mid-size SUV of drill batteries.

Corded Drills

If you do repetitive, heavy-duty drilling — think through dense wood or metal for extended periods — corded drills deliver constant power and usually higher torque. They’re often cheaper on a pound-for-pound basis and don’t require spare batteries. Stores like Screwfix and Toolstation tend to stock a strong variety of corded, trade-grade options if you need something that will run all day without a recharge.

Key Features to Look For

Not all drills are created equal. Some features are must-haves, others are nice-to-have. Here’s a quick checklist to keep on your phone while shopping.

Motor Type: Brushed vs Brushless

Brushless motors punch above their weight — they run cooler, last longer, and use battery power more efficiently. They’re pricier but worth it if you’re a regular user. Brushed motors are cheaper and still useful for light DIY. Think of brushless as the premium package: same trip, but smoother and more economical.

Battery Capacity & Voltage

Battery specs matter. Voltage gives you a feel for power — 12V is great for light tasks, 18V is the sweet spot for most DIYers, and higher voltages suit trade work. Amp-hours (Ah) hint at runtime — 2.0 Ah gives you shorter runs, while a 4.0 Ah or higher battery stretches work sessions. If you can, buy a kit with at least one spare battery so you never stop mid-job.

Chuck Size

Chuck size determines the largest bit shank you can fit. Common sizes are 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, and 1/2-inch. A 1/2-inch chuck gives more flexibility if you want to use bigger bits or add attachments. For furniture assembly and small jobs, a 3/8-inch chuck is usually fine.

Weight and Ergonomics

You’ll notice the difference after ten minutes of overhead work. Lightweight drills — say 3 to 6 lbs — reduce fatigue and let you be precise. Comfort grips, balanced weight distribution, and a compact head make awkward angles less painful. If you’re buying online from B&Q, Wickes, or Amazon UK, check the weight in the product specs and imagine holding it for a while.

Top UK Stores to Buy Handheld Drills

The UK market has plenty of reliable retailers where you can test, compare, and pick up a drill. Below are the places I check first when I’m shopping for tools — each has its strengths depending on budget, brand preference, or the speed you need the tool.

Screwfix

Screwfix is a top pick for tradespeople and serious DIYers. They carry an extensive range of corded and cordless drills from workhorse brands and often stock trade packs and batteries separately. Their click-and-collect is quick, and you’ll find solid deals on mid-range to professional gear if you keep an eye on their sale pages.

B&Q

B&Q is great for DIY essentials and mid-range drills that balance price and quality. If you’re furnishing a new home or taking on weekend projects, B&Q’s range covers Ryobi and Bosch models geared to homeowners. Their showrooms let you feel the weight and grip — which helps when deciding between similar models.

Wickes

Wickes tends to cater to DIYers and small trades. They stock familiar brands and often bundle drills with bit sets or cases. If you’re starting out and want straightforward kits without paying a premium for trade-grade extras, Wickes is worth a look.

Toolstation

Toolstation is another trade-focused retailer with a strong line-up of professional tools, often at competitive prices. If you want a more industrial selection or need something fast, they have excellent local pick-up options and a solid stock of higher-torque corded drills.

Homebase

Homebase mixes home improvement kits and practical advice for weekend workers. Their selection overlaps with B&Q on many consumer brands but occasionally features unique bundles and seasonal discounts ideal for lighter projects around the house.

Argos

Argos is convenient for quick buys and often stocks value-focused cordless drill kits. If you want a simple, affordable set for occasional use, Argos’ range is easy to scan online and pick up in store the same day.

Amazon UK

Amazon’s strength is variety and user reviews. You can compare dozens of user ratings and often find bundle deals or third-party sellers offering extras like additional batteries. Be careful to check seller reputation and warranty terms — not every listing is sold by an official distributor.

Robert Dyas

Robert Dyas appeals to home handymen seeking reliable entry-level and mid-range kits. Their stores have a friendly, approachable feel and staff who can recommend practical tools if you’re unsure of technical specs.

Best Brands and Models to Consider

Brands matter, but so do specific models. Here’s a snapshot of reliable choices across budgets — think of these as starting points, not the only options.

DeWalt

DeWalt is a favorite among tradespeople for durability and battery ecosystem. Their 18V brushless models strike a superb balance between power and weight, and replacement batteries are easy to buy in the UK. If you want a long-term investment, DeWalt is a safe bet.

Makita

Makita blends reliability with ergonomics. Their cordless drills often feel lighter than rivals while delivering steady power. Makita’s 18V range is extensive and widely stocked at stores like Screwfix and Toolstation.

Bosch

Bosch’s blue line targets professionals, while the green range is more DIY-friendly. Both are solid choices, with the blue models offering higher torque and build quality for demanding tasks.

Ryobi

Ryobi is a winner for homeowners who want value and a wide battery platform. You’ll find many multi-tool batteries that work across drills, saws, and garden tools — handy if you like building up a home tool collection without buying a new battery for every device.

Milwaukee

Milwaukee focuses on heavy-duty performance and innovative accessories. Their drills often feature high torque and outstanding durability, which makes them a top pick for frequent users and tradespeople.

Budget Picks vs Pro Tools: Where to Spend

Confused about whether to splurge? Here’s a quick rule: spend more on the battery platform and motor if you’ll use the drill often; save on accessories that you can upgrade later. A good mid-range cordless kit will generally cover most home projects, while pros will want brushless motors and a higher-voltage ecosystem.

When to Buy Budget Models

Choose budget models if you need a tool for light tasks — drilling small holes in wood, assembling furniture, or occasional repairs. These drills will be lighter on features but do the job without breaking the bank.

When to Buy Professional Tools

If you’re working daily on building sites or renovating multiple rooms, pro tools with brushless motors, better cooling, and higher torque are worth the investment. They last longer, handle tougher materials, and often come with better service and warranties from top stores.

Accessories and Bits You Shouldn’t Ignore

A drill is only as useful as the accessories you pair with it. Good bits and extras turn a basic drill into a versatile workhorse for carpentry, metalwork, and even light masonry.

Drill Bit Sets

Buy quality drill bit sets measured in inches — a set with 1/16-inch to 1/2-inch sizes covers most tasks. Cheap bits dull quickly, so consider spending a little more up front for longevity and better accuracy.

Extra Batteries and Chargers

Nothing kills momentum like a dead battery. Keep at least one spare battery in rotation, and if you can, invest in a rapid charger so you can get back to work fast. Many UK stores sell kits with two batteries, which is ideal.

Cases, Belts, and Attachments

A hard case protects your investment, and a good belt clip or holster helps if you’re moving around a lot. Consider right-angle attachments and screwdriver bits for tight spaces — they’re cheap but can save hours of frustration.

How to Care for Your Drill

Want your drill to last? Treat it like your favourite pair of trainers: keep it clean, store it properly, and don’t overwork it. Basic care extends life and keeps performance steady.

Cleaning and Storage

Wipe dust away after use, especially around vents and chucks. Store batteries in a cool, dry place and avoid leaving them fully discharged for long periods. A padded case protects against knocks and moisture.

Battery Care

Rotate batteries and avoid leaving them drained for weeks. If you can, store them at around half charge for long-term storage — it’s a small habit that prevents capacity loss and keeps them healthy for years.

Routine Checks

Periodically check chuck tightness, inspect bits for wear, and listen for odd noises. If a drill starts overheating or making unusual sounds, stop and check — small problems are easy to fix, big ones are costly.

Where to Find the Best Deals and Price Comparison Tips

Hunting for the best price is part art, part timing. Use price comparison sites to scan multiple retailers, sign up for newsletters for flash offers, and watch major sales windows like Black Friday or seasonal tool events. Trade accounts at Screwfix or Toolstation sometimes unlock better prices if you’re buying in quantity.

Use Comparison Sites

Comparison sites can save you time by showing stock and price differences across retailers at once. They’re especially handy when a specific drill model is on a short promo at one store but full price at another.

Look for Kits, Not Just Tools

Buying a kit with two batteries and a charger often works out cheaper than buying accessories separately. If you know you’ll use the drill regularly, a kit is usually the smarter buy.

Conclusion

Picking the right handheld drill comes down to matching your needs with the tool’s features and the retailer that best serves you. For casual DIY, shops like B&Q, Wickes, and Argos offer great value; for trade-level performance, Screwfix, Toolstation, and specialist retailers bring the professional options. Focus on motor type, battery system, chuck size, and ergonomics, and don’t forget to invest in decent bits and spare batteries. A little research goes a long way — and with the right drill in your hands, even the toughest jobs start to feel manageable.