Bosch 12V and the Bosch 12V Max PS31-2A share the front of recommendations for simple household maintenance, standing nearly even. While compact handling keeps Bosch at the center for quick fixes, recommendations also look to DeWalt 20V Max options when durability and extra power are required.
For a homeowner who only needs a cordless drill for occasional, simple projects, I'd recommend the Ryobi 18V ONE+ drill/driver kit for the best balance of price, versatility, and long-term usefulness. You don't need an expensive professional-grade drill for hanging shelves, assembling furniture, installing curtain rods, or handling basic repairs.
Good Housekeeping's 2026 testing named Ryobi its best overall pick, while also recommending more budget-friendly options for beginners.
My top cordless drill picks
(Best overall)
1. Ryobi ONE+ 18V PCL206K1 Drill/Driver Kit
$109 approx.
A versatile first drill with a 1/2-inch chuck, two speed settings, battery, charger, and drill bits. Its 18V platform also lets you add other compatible tools later.
Best for: The typical homeowner who wants one drill for years of household jobs.
For occasional, simple projects around the house—like assembling furniture, hanging a picture frame, or putting up a curtain rod —you don't need a heavy, contractor-grade 18V/20V monster. In fact, a smaller 12-volt (12V) drill is usually the sweet spot: it is significantly lighter, easier to maneuver in tight spaces, and has plenty of muscle for drywall, softwoods, and light assembly.[](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-KfbPjT5t0&t=250)
Top recommendations tailored for simple, infrequent home use include:
I'm looking for a cordless drill for light-duty home maintenance. Which ones are best for infrequent use?
Compact and lightweight, with a brushless motor and USB-C battery charging. A good fit for smaller jobs when ease of handling matters more than maximum power.
Best for: Furniture assembly, small pilot holes, and light household repairs.
4.8/5 at Walmart, with 283 reviews.
Shop SKIL PWR CORE 12V
3. Hyper Tough 12V Brushless Project Kit
$40 approx.
A low-cost starter kit that includes a battery, charger, and accessories. It is a sensible choice if you expect to use a drill only a few times a year.
Best for: Tight budgets and basic DIY tasks.
4.7/5 at Walmart, with 176 reviews.
Shop Hyper Tough 12V Project Kit
What I'd buy in your situation
I'd choose the Ryobi 18V kit if this is your first drill. It offers more room to grow than a basic 12V model without requiring you to spend professional-tool money. If you want something lighter and expect only small jobs, the SKIL 12V is a very good alternative.
A few things to look for before buying:
Battery and charger included. Avoid accidentally buying a tool-only model.
Adjustable clutch. Helps prevent overtightening screws and damaging furniture.
Two speed settings and variable-speed trigger. Makes it easier to control the drill.
A small set of drill bits and screwdriver bits. You'll need both for most household projects.
One caveat: if you plan to drill into brick or concrete, look for a hammer drill instead.
My bottom line: Spend around $60–$110 on a complete kit rather than $200 or more on a professional model. For occasional home projects, that's the sweet spot.
Why it's great: Weighing just over 2 pounds, it is an absolute champion of ergonomics and balance. It fits easily into cramped cabinets or awkward corners where big drills can't reach, and it holds a charge remarkably well in a closet between uses.
Best for: Ultimate lightweight comfort and basic assembling/hanging tasks.
Why it's great: If you think you might eventually want other cordless outdoor or DIY tools (like a vacuum, inflator, or light), Ryobi ONE+ 18V is unmatched for value. While 18V is technically bigger, their compact/subcompact versions are very manageable, affordable, and run on a battery platform that spans hundreds of inexpensive tools.
Best for: Value seekers who might want a budget-friendly ecosystem for future tools.
Why it's great: Often found in budget-friendly kits that include a starter set of bits and accessories. It’s inexpensive, approachable right out of the box, and powerful enough for standard honey-do list tasks without breaking the bank.
Best for: Ultra-casual users who want a cheap, all-in-one kit that just works when called upon.
If you'd like to narrow this down, let me know:
Do you already own any cordless power tools (like a specific brand of battery)?
For infrequent, light-duty home maintenance (like assembling flat-pack furniture, hanging picture frames, or tightening loose cabinet hinges), you don't need a heavy, expensive 18V or 20V contractor-grade drill. Instead, a 12V compact drill is ideal: it’s lightweight, easily stored in a kitchen drawer or closet, and has plenty of power for everyday tasks without draining or degrading a massive battery during months of sitting idle.
Top-rated options tailored for casual, infrequent use include:
Highlighted as a top pick by Wirecutter , this drill balances stellar ergonomics, an upright-standing battery foot, a bright low-mounted LED, and a compact brushless motor. It is comfortable, incredibly intuitive for beginners, and powerful enough for any drywall or wood project around the house.
If size and weight are your absolute top priorities, this Milwaukee M12 model weighs under 2 lbs and measures a mere 5.4 inches in length. It excels in tight spaces (like inside a cabinet or under a sink), though it features a slightly bulkier handle grip due to the internal battery design.
Black+Decker 12V MAX * or 20V MAX LDX120C*
If you are looking for a true budget pick that you might only pull out twice a year, basic Black+Decker kits are inexpensive, lightweight, and completely adequate for occasional picture-hanging and minor furniture tweaks. (Note: Casual lithium-ion batteries should still be charged up at least once or twice a year to maintain battery health during long storage periods.)
To help narrow this down, do you have a specific budget in mind, or do you already own other cordless tools where sharing the same battery brand would be convenient?
For infrequent light-duty home maintenance, I’d favor compact 12V or affordable 18V/20V kits over expensive pro drills. Current testing especially favors the Bosch 12V for lightweight work and Ryobi 18V for value.
