(checked 2026-10-10)The 2-star row read 0%, so the value is the 3% 1-star share (1,979 ratings).
Experts call it the most comfortable small drill they've tested, with enough power for nearly any household job. Its limits are a 3/8-inch chuck, slower drilling than 18V/20V drills, and some owner reports of battery or motor failures.
In the box: 2 x 12V Max 2.0Ah batteries, charger and tool bag (DeWalt)
Top complaints
- Not built for heavy, all-day work
Wirecutter says it isn't powerful enough for all-day aggressive work and can't drill masonry. Its 18V upgrade pick drilled five 1-inch holes in 20 seconds; this drill took a full minute and often bound up. HGTV lists slow drilling and driving as a con.
Source: Wirecutter (NYT), HGTV - 3/8-inch chuck limits bit size
HGTV lists the 3/8-inch chuck as a con. HGTV also says the LED could be better, but Wirecutter found its low-mounted LED lit the work better than most.
Source: HGTV, Wirecutter (NYT) - Battery and early-failure reports
Amazon's review summary rates battery life as mixed, with some owners reporting charging problems. Several 1-star Walmart reviews describe batteries that wouldn't hold a charge, a drill that stalled or started smoking, and a slow mail-in warranty process.
What owners love
- Best ergonomics tested
Wirecutter calls it the most comfortable drill it has ever held. HGTV says its handle was far more comfortable than other 12V drills.
Source: Wirecutter (NYT), HGTV - Plenty of power for its size
Wirecutter's tester drilled 30 1-inch holes and drove over 100 3-inch screws per charge. HGTV got 34 large spade-bit holes and 204 3-inch screws, the best of its 12V group.
Source: Wirecutter (NYT), HGTV - Thoughtful details
Its foot-style battery lets it stand upright, and the charge gauge sits on the battery so you can check both packs (Wirecutter). Amazon owners praise its quality, compact size and value.
- You'll build decks or drill lots of big holes
- You need a 1/2-inch chuck or masonry drilling
- You already own 18V/20V batteries from another brand
- Most home repairs and furniture assembly
- Smaller hands or overhead work
- A first drill that stands up on its own
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- Wirecutter (NYT): Top pick: the best mix of power, size, ergonomics and convenience. Its only drawbacks are those shared by all 12V drills: no all-day heavy work and no masonry.
- HGTV: Best lightweight pick that outperformed every 12V drill tested. Cons are slow drilling and driving, a so-so LED and a 3/8-inch chuck.