Cordless drills are electric drills using rechargeable batteries. They are commonly used in carpentry, construction and metalworks.

A cordless drill is a portable machine for hand-held drilling tasks. It comes in various sizes and types, each with varying features. Here are some features to consider:

The Weight of the Drill

Take into consideration the weight. Drills with lower battery voltage are usually smaller and lighter. Heavier drills though have higher-voltage batteries.

Batteries

Cordless drills are available in 9.6 to 24 volts. The capacity of the drill depends on the battery voltage. Not all 12-volt batteries are the same. A battery with a higher mAh (milliamp-hours) can hold a drill for long periods. On the other hand, battery types like Lithium-ion and nickel-metal-hydride help add more power and running time. These drills are relatively lighter and don't contain toxic cadmium.

Check the prices also. Most modern batteries sell for more than $200 or more. NiCd cells are priced lower costing as little as $25. The Li-Ion and NIMH cells cost more than $90.

Cordless drill batteries last 2 to 4 years on the average. It is recommended to use rechargeable batteries. It will be more economical in the long run.

The Brand

Generally, branded drills are more efficient and reliable in performance although more costly. There's Black & Decker, Craftsman, Ryobi and Skil to name a few. Bosch, Hitachi, Milwaukee, DeWalt, Ridgid and PorterCable are do-it-yourself brands that are more expensive. Search the internet for other recommended brands.

The Price

Depending on the voltage, good cordless drill costs $60 to $100. Most 9.6-volt drills cost around $100. A 12-volt model costs about $50 to $130. A 14.4-volt is usually sold for $60 to $200. An 18-volt usually sells for $100 to $300. Impact drivers are sold for $150.

Additional features:

• Smart Charger. Many recent models come with a charger that can be optimized to extend battery life. A fully-charged battery will switch into a trickle-charge mode. Some models offer a charger with built-in spare batteries.

• Chuck. A cordless drill uses a 3/8 inch chuck to hold the bits. Chucks can be 12 inches long, allowing one to use the drill bit for up to ½ inches in diameter. This includes a hammer drill feature for woodworking and for drilling holes in masonry.

• Kits. Some cordless drills come with a flashlight, circular and reciprocating saws and a carrying case.

Here are some tips on choosing the right cordless tool that will suit your budget and personal preferences.

1. Look for a drill with a work-saving feature. Most suited drills have long running power and requires fewer pauses.

2. Check out the latest sales and promos. Some drills when bought include freebies and additional kits.

3. Hold the drill and check the grip for sharp edges and bumps. The trigger should work smoothly.

4. Check if the specifications in ads and displays are true. Don't be satisfied with the speed test in stores.

Have a basic understanding of the parts and functions of a cordless drill. Buy the right drill depending on your budget and needs.