Drill Drivers

About Drill Drivers

Drill drivers are amongst the most versatile and essential power tools in any professional tradesperson's kit or DIY enthusiast's workshop. These dual-purpose machines combine two key functions in one compact unit: drilling precise holes through materials like wood, plastic and metal, and driving screws with controlled torque. The adjustable clutch mechanism sets drill drivers apart from standard drills, allowing you to select the optimum torque setting for different screw sizes and materials, ensuring fasteners are driven home perfectly without stripping threads or damaging surface finishes.

Available primarily in 10.8v, 12v and 18v configurations, these cordless tools offer solutions for every application and user requirement. Compact 10.8v and 12v models excel in tight spaces and overhead work, delivering impressive performance whilst reducing operator fatigue during extended use. The 18v variants provide greater power output for demanding tasks and larger diameter drilling, making them ideal for general-purpose applications across construction sites and workshops. Our range includes leading professional brands such as Makita, Bosch Professional, DeWalt, Milwaukee and Festool, alongside accessible DIY options from Bosch DIY, Black & Decker and Einhell.

It's important to note that drill drivers do not incorporate hammer action, so they're not suitable for drilling into masonry, concrete or brick. For these materials, you'll need a combi drill, SDS drill or dedicated hammer drill. However, for everything from assembling furniture and installing kitchen cabinets to constructing timber frames and general fabrication work, a quality drill driver is the tool for the job.

Jargon Buster

• Brushless Motor: Modern motor technology that eliminates carbon brushes, resulting in more efficient power delivery, longer runtime per battery charge, extended tool lifespan and reduced maintenance requirements compared to traditional brushed motors.
• Torque Settings: The adjustable clutch positions (typically numbered 1-20+) that control how much rotational force is applied. Lower settings prevent over-tightening small screws, whilst higher settings provide maximum power for driving larger fasteners or drilling operations.
• Ah (Ampere-hours): The capacity rating of lithium-ion batteries, indicating how much energy they store. Higher Ah ratings (e.g., 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah) provide longer runtime between charges, though they add weight to the tool.
• Chuck Size: The maximum diameter of drill bit shank the tool can accommodate, typically 10mm or 13mm on drill drivers. Most feature keyless chucks for quick bit changes without requiring a separate tightening key.
• No-Load Speed (RPM): The maximum rotational speed the chuck achieves when not under load, measured in revolutions per minute. Drill drivers often feature two-speed gearboxes for versatility—low speed/high torque for driving, high speed for drilling.
• Li-ion (Lithium-ion): The battery chemistry used in modern cordless tools, offering excellent power-to-weight ratio, minimal self-discharge, no memory effect, and consistent power output throughout the discharge cycle.

Who Uses Drill Drivers?

Drill drivers serve a broad spectrum of professional tradespeople and DIY users:

• Carpenters and joiners – assembling furniture, fitting kitchens, installing doors and windows, timber frame construction
• Shop fitters and cabinet makers – precise screw driving for fixings and fittings in retail environments
• Electricians – mounting back boxes, fixing cable clips and installing consumer units (though not for masonry drilling)
• Plumbers – securing pipe clips, mounting radiators and installing bathroom fittings
• General builders – versatile applications across construction sites for non-masonry tasks
• Maintenance engineers and facility managers – equipment installation and repair work
• Shopfitters and dry liners – fixing plasterboard, installing stud walls and partition systems
• DIY enthusiasts and homeowners – flat-pack assembly, home improvements, garden projects and general repairs
• Vehicle fitters and mechanics – disassembly and reassembly work requiring controlled torque

How to Choose the Right Drill Driver

Voltage and Power: Select 10.8v or 12v models if you prioritise portability, work in confined spaces, or perform light to medium-duty tasks. Choose 18v drill drivers for all-day professional use, larger diameter drilling requirements, and driving longer screws into dense materials. The higher voltage platforms also offer greater battery interchangeability with other tools in the same range.

Motor Technology: Brushless models command a premium but deliver approximately 25-50% longer runtime, increased power efficiency, and significantly extended tool life. For professional daily use, the investment is worthwhile. Brushed motors remain perfectly adequate for occasional DIY applications and budget-conscious buyers.

Battery Capacity: Consider whether the kit includes 2.0Ah, 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah or larger batteries. Higher capacity extends working time between charges but increases tool weight. Professional users often benefit from having multiple batteries—one charging whilst another powers the tool. Check whether batteries are included or if it's a "body-only" option if you already own compatible batteries.

Torque and Speed: Maximum torque (measured in Nm—Newton metres) indicates driving power for larger screws and tougher materials. Two-speed gearboxes provide optimal performance across different applications. Look for models offering 400-500 RPM in first gear for driving, and 1,400-1,800 RPM in second gear for drilling.

Build Quality and Brand: Professional-grade tools from Makita, Bosch Professional, DeWalt, Milwaukee and Festool feature superior build quality, comprehensive warranties, and extensive service networks across the UK. DIY-focused ranges from Bosch DIY, Black & Decker and Einhell offer excellent value for lighter, intermittent use.

Ergonomics and Weight: Consider overall balance, grip comfort and weight distribution, particularly if you'll use the tool for extended periods or overhead applications. Compact "sub-compact" designs excel in tight spaces whilst maintaining surprising power output.

Popular Accessories

• Drill Bit Sets: HSS (high-speed steel) bits for metal, brad point bits for wood, and multi-purpose sets covering various materials. Essential for maximising your drill driver's capabilities.
• Screwdriver Bit Sets: Phillips, Pozi, Torx, hex and specialist security bits. Impact-rated bits offer enhanced durability. Magnetic bit holders extend reach and improve bit retention.
• Spare Batteries: Additional battery packs ensure continuous operation on site. Consider rapid chargers to minimise downtime between charges.
• Bit Storage and Cases: Organisers, belt clips and tough cases protect your investment and keep accessories accessible on the job.
• Right-Angle and Flexible Attachments: Extend versatility for working in awkward spaces, particularly useful in electrical installation and plumbing applications.
• Depth Stops and Guides: Ensure consistent, accurate drilling depths for dowelling, shelf pins and professional joinery work.
• Chuck Adapters: Hex-to-SDS adapters and similar fittings expand compatibility with different accessory types.

Safety Information

Whilst drill drivers are relatively safe compared to other power tools, following proper safety protocols protects against injury:

• Eye Protection: Always wear safety glasses or goggles to protect against swarf, wood chips and debris, particularly when drilling overhead.
• Secure Workpieces: Clamp materials firmly before drilling or driving. Hand-held workpieces can spin or kick, causing injury.
• Remove Chuck Keys: Whilst most drill drivers feature keyless chucks, if using keyed accessories, never leave the key in the chuck during operation.
• Check for Hidden Hazards: Use a cable and pipe detector before drilling into walls to avoid striking electrical cables, gas pipes or water supply lines. Comply with Part P electrical regulations when working near electrical installations.
• Battery Safety: Only use manufacturer-approved batteries and chargers. Store lithium-ion batteries in cool, dry conditions away from flammable materials. Never attempt to disassemble or repair damaged battery packs.
• Avoid Loose Clothing: Remove jewellery, tie back long hair, and avoid loose sleeves that could become caught in rotating components.
• Electrical Safety: Though cordless tools eliminate trailing leads, ensure chargers are used with properly earthed 230V UK sockets protected by RCD (residual current device) if used on construction sites in accordance with HSE guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a drill driver and a combi drill?

A drill driver excels at drilling wood, metal and plastic, plus driving screws with adjustable torque control. A combi drill includes an additional hammer action mode for drilling into masonry, concrete and brick, making it more versatile but typically heavier and more expensive. If you never drill masonry, a drill driver offers a lighter, more compact solution.

Can I use my drill driver as an impact driver?

No, these are different tools. Impact drivers deliver rotational impacts specifically designed for driving screws and fasteners with greater efficiency and less user fatigue, particularly with longer screws. Drill drivers provide smooth, controlled rotation better suited for drilling precise holes and general-purpose screw driving where you need torque control to avoid over-tightening.

Are 18v drill drivers always more powerful than 12v models?

Generally yes, 18v platforms deliver higher torque and can accommodate larger chuck sizes for bigger drill bits. However, modern brushless 12v drill drivers can rival older 18v brushed models for many applications. Consider your typical tasks—12v tools offer superior portability and reduced fatigue for light to medium-duty work, whilst 18v excels at demanding, all-day professional applications.

Should I buy a kit with batteries or a body-only tool?

If you're starting fresh or don't own tools in that brand's battery platform, choose a kit including batteries and charger—it offers better value. If you already own compatible batteries from the same manufacturer and voltage range, body-only purchases avoid unnecessary duplication and reduce cost. Most professional tradespeople standardise on one brand's battery system across multiple tools.

How long do drill driver batteries typically last?

Modern lithium-ion batteries typically endure 500-1,000 charge cycles before noticeable capacity degradation. With proper care—avoiding complete discharge, storing partially charged in cool conditions, and using manufacturer-approved chargers—batteries can provide several years of reliable service. Runtime per charge depends on battery capacity (Ah rating) and application intensity, ranging from 30 minutes of continuous heavy use to several hours of intermittent light work.