The best cordless drill in NZ overall is the Bosch UniversalImpact 18V-60, a hammer drill driver with a 13mm all-metal chuck that covers everyday drilling and screwdriving as well as the occasional hole into masonry. Hammer mode earns its place in New Zealand homes, where a concrete block wall or a brick veneer is usually sitting somewhere between you and the job.
A good cordless drill driver covers everything from flat-pack furniture to deck screws and the occasional hole in brick, without you being tethered to a power cord.
We’ve compared 10 cordless drills available in New Zealand, from compact 12V drivers to full 18V/20V hammer drill kits, so you can match voltage, torque and kit inclusions to the jobs you actually do.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Key Specs |
|---|---|---|
| Bosch UniversalImpact 18V-60 Cordless Hammer Drill | Best Overall | 18V brushless · 2.5Ah battery, charger & case · 60Nm torque · 13mm metal chuck · 2-speed hammer drill |
| Stanley FATMAX V20 Premium Brushless Hammer Drill | Best Premium/Professional | 18V brushless · 2×2.0Ah batteries & charger · 80Nm torque · 13mm metal chuck · hammer drill to 34,000 BPM |
| Ryobi ONE+ Brushless Combi Drill (Bare Tool) | Best Brushless Motor | 18V brushless · bare tool (no battery/charger) · 95Nm torque · 13mm metal chuck · 2-speed combi drill |
| Milwaukee M12 Subcompact Drill/Driver | Best Compact/Lightweight | 12V brushless · 3/8-inch metal chuck · 12 clutch settings · approx. 22.6Nm torque |
| Bosch EasyDrill 18V-40 Cordless Drill Driver | Best Value | 18V · 2.0Ah battery, charger & case · 40Nm torque · 13mm chuck · 2-speed gearbox |
| TOPEX Hammer Drill & Impact Driver Combo Kit | Best Kit (Two Tools in One) | 20V · hammer drill + impact driver combo · fast charger included · up to 2300 RPM |
| Stanley FATMAX V20 Drill & Flashlight Combo Kit | Best Bonus Bundle | 18V · drill + 140-lumen flashlight bundle · 50Nm torque · hammer action to 25,500 BPM · 2.0Ah battery & charger |
| DongCheng Compact Drill Driver DIY Kit | Best for DIY Beginners | 20V · 2x 2.0Ah batteries & charger · 40Nm torque · 2-speed (0-400/0-1500 RPM) · 17-piece accessory kit |
| Black+Decker 18V Drill Driver | Best Budget | 18V · 1.5Ah battery & 400mA charger · 10-position clutch · variable speed · integrated LED light |
| MasterSpec 12V Cordless Drill Driver Set | Best Battery Life | 12V · 2x lithium-ion batteries included · 20Nm torque · 18+1 clutch positions · 47-piece tool set |
1. Bosch UniversalImpact 18V-60 Cordless Hammer Drill
The Bosch UniversalImpact 18V-60 is a well-rounded hammer drill driver built for anyone who wants one tool that can handle everyday drilling, screwdriving and the occasional job into masonry. It suits homeowners and hobbyist renovators who want German engineering without stepping up to a full trade-grade range.
Bosch has kept the body compact with a 13mm all-metal chuck that resists wear better than the plastic sleeves found on cheaper drills. The kit arrives complete with a 2.5Ah battery, charger and a moulded storage case, so there is nothing extra to buy before starting a job.
In use, the brushless motor and two-speed gearbox make it easy to match the tool to the task, whether that is driving small screws on the low-torque setting or switching into hammer mode for drilling into brick. Twenty clutch settings give fine control over fastening depth, which helps avoid stripped screws or overdriven fixings.
The trade-off is price: it costs noticeably more than a basic drill driver, and buyers who never need the hammer function are paying for a feature they may rarely use.
Pros
- Brushless motor for better efficiency and a longer working life
- Hammer action adds masonry drilling capability most home drills lack
- 13mm all-metal chuck feels noticeably more durable than plastic alternatives
- Comes as a complete kit with battery, charger and case
Cons
- Pricier than a basic non-hammer drill driver of similar voltage
- 2.5Ah battery is decent but not class-leading for runtime on heavy jobs
- Overkill for buyers who only need light screwdriving tasks
Key specs: 18V brushless · 2.5Ah battery, charger & case · 60Nm torque · 13mm metal chuck · 2-speed hammer drill
2. Stanley FATMAX V20 Premium Brushless Hammer Drill
The Stanley FATMAX V20 Premium Brushless Hammer Drill Driver is aimed at tradespeople and serious DIYers who need a tool that can keep working through a full day of demanding jobs. It sits at the top of the FATMAX V20 lineup and is priced accordingly.
Build quality feels a step above the entry-level FATMAX models, with a metal keyless chuck, magnetic bit holders for quick changes and an integrated LED work light for dim job sites. The kit includes two 2.0Ah batteries and a charger, so there is always a spare on hand.
Performance is where this drill stands out, with 80Nm of torque, up to 2000 RPM and hammer action rated to 34,000 BPM. Fifteen clutch settings give precise control when driving fasteners, and the two-speed gearbox lets the user dial in the right balance of speed and power for the job.
It is a genuinely capable tool, but the extra power and dual-battery kit come at a noticeably higher price than the more basic Stanley combo kits, so casual users doing light home tasks may find it more drill than they actually need.
Pros
- High torque and hammer BPM rating suit tougher trade-level jobs
- Brushless motor improves runtime and reduces maintenance
- Comes with two batteries and a charger for continuous use
- Metal keyless chuck and integrated LED work light add practicality
Cons
- Noticeably more expensive than standard FATMAX drill kits
- Heavier and larger than compact 12V options, less ideal for overhead work
- More features than most home DIY users will ever need
Key specs: 18V brushless · 2×2.0Ah batteries & charger · 80Nm torque · 13mm metal chuck · hammer drill to 34,000 BPM
3. Ryobi ONE+ Brushless Combi Drill (Bare Tool)
The Ryobi combi drill is built for anyone already invested in the Ryobi ONE+ battery platform, since it is sold as a bare tool without a battery or charger. It suits DIYers and light tradespeople who want to add a stronger drill to an existing ONE+ kit.
The body uses a full metal ratcheting 13mm chuck, which grips bits more securely than plastic alternatives and should hold up better over repeated use. Two gears let the user match maximum speed to the material being worked.
In practice, the brushless motor and three working modes (hammer drilling into masonry, standard drilling, and clutch-controlled screwdriving) make this a genuinely versatile combi drill rather than a single-purpose driver. The torque and speed figures put it comfortably among the stronger drills in the ONE+ range.
Because it is bare tool only, buyers without existing ONE+ batteries will need to budget separately for a battery and charger, and the overall price sits higher than several kits that include both.
Pros
- Brushless motor with strong torque and speed for a compact combi drill
- Full metal ratcheting chuck adds durability
- Three drilling modes cover masonry, general drilling and screwdriving
- Compatible with the wide Ryobi ONE+ battery ecosystem
Cons
- Sold as bare tool, no battery or charger included
- Priced higher than several complete kits once a battery is factored in
- Not a sensible first purchase for someone with no existing ONE+ batteries
Key specs: 18V brushless · bare tool (no battery/charger) · 95Nm torque · 13mm metal chuck · 2-speed combi drill
4. Milwaukee M12 Subcompact Drill/Driver
The Milwaukee M12 Subcompact Brushless Drill/Driver is built for tight spaces and one-handed work, making it a favourite for electricians, HVAC technicians and anyone doing repeated fastening in cramped spots. It is a 12V tool rather than a heavy 18V drill, so it trades outright power for size and manoeuvrability.
The compact body is noticeably smaller and lighter than an 18V drill driver, which reduces fatigue during long stretches of overhead or awkward-angle work. A metal 3/8 inch keyless chuck adds durability that plastic chucks on cheaper compacts tend to lack.
Twelve clutch settings give fine control over fastening depth, useful for delicate work like cabinet hardware or electrical fixtures where over-tightening can cause damage. The brushless motor also helps guard against overheating during repeated use.
Being a 12V subcompact, it simply cannot match the torque of an 18V or 20V drill driver, so it is better suited as a second, precision tool alongside a larger drill rather than a sole all-purpose option for heavier DIY or construction jobs.
Pros
- Compact, lightweight body ideal for tight spaces and one-handed use
- Brushless motor helps prevent overloading and overheating
- Metal keyless chuck adds durability over plastic alternatives
- Twelve clutch settings allow precise fastening control
Cons
- 12V platform has noticeably less torque than 18V/20V drills
- Not intended as a primary tool for heavy-duty drilling
- Battery and charger availability isn’t specified on this listing
Key specs: 12V brushless · 3/8-inch metal chuck · 12 clutch settings · approx. 22.6Nm torque
5. Bosch EasyDrill 18V-40 Cordless Drill Driver
The Bosch EasyDrill 18V-40 is a straightforward drill driver aimed at home users who want a dependable, no-fuss tool for general drilling and screwdriving around the house. It is part of Bosch’s Home & Garden range rather than its professional line, keeping the price accessible.
Despite the friendlier price point, it still uses a 13mm chuck and comes as a complete kit with a 2.0Ah battery, charger and carry case, so it is ready to use straight out of the box.
A two-speed gearbox and 20 torque presettings cover most everyday tasks, from driving small screws into plasterboard to drilling holes in timber. The battery is also compatible with other tools in the Bosch 18V Home & Garden system, giving some room to expand later.
It lacks a hammer function and brushless motor, so it will feel underpowered for masonry work or sustained trade use, but for typical household jobs that is unlikely to be a real drawback.
Pros
- Complete kit with battery, charger and case at an accessible price
- 13mm chuck and 20 torque settings cover most home drilling and driving tasks
- Compatible with the wider Bosch 18V Home & Garden battery system
- Established brand build quality
Cons
- No hammer function, so unsuitable for masonry drilling
- Brushed rather than brushless motor
- Single 2.0Ah battery may need topping up during longer sessions
Key specs: 18V · 2.0Ah battery, charger & case · 40Nm torque · 13mm chuck · 2-speed gearbox
6. TOPEX Hammer Drill & Impact Driver Combo Kit
The TOPEX 20V Combo Kit pairs a hammer drill with an impact driver in a single purchase, aimed at budget-conscious DIYers who want two tools covering both drilling and fastening without buying them separately. It is a good fit for someone setting up a first home toolkit.
Build quality is what would be expected at this price point rather than premium, but the kit includes a fast charger and a belt clip on the drill for mobility around a job site or workshop. Switching between hammer drilling, standard drilling and driving modes is straightforward.
For everyday use, the combo covers a wide range of tasks: general drilling into timber, occasional masonry work in hammer mode, and driving screws with the separate impact driver. Having both tools share a battery platform keeps things simple.
As a value-focused combo kit, it does not have the brand history or long-term parts support of Bosch, DeWalt or Makita, and buyers should expect a more basic overall feel and finish compared with those established brands.
Pros
- Two tools (hammer drill and impact driver) in one affordable kit
- Fast charger included for shorter downtime between uses
- Belt clip adds convenience for mobile or overhead work
- Easy mode switching between hammer, drill and driving functions
Cons
- Generic budget brand without the track record of major tool makers
- Build feel is more basic than premium branded alternatives
- Long-term battery and parts availability is less certain than with major brands
Key specs: 20V · hammer drill + impact driver combo · fast charger included · up to 2300 RPM
7. Stanley FATMAX V20 Drill & Flashlight Combo Kit
This Stanley FATMAX V20 combo kit bundles a hammer drill with a dedicated flashlight, making it a practical pick for homeowners who want a drill and a reliable torch covered by the same battery platform. It suits general household use rather than heavy trade work.
The drill itself includes hammer action, useful for the occasional masonry job, while the included flashlight puts out 140 LED lumens, handy for garages, roof spaces or power cuts. Both tools share the 18V FATMAX V20 battery, so only one charger and battery are needed to run either.
In everyday use, the drill delivers 1500 RPM and 50Nm of torque with hammer action up to 25,500 BPM, enough for general drilling, screwdriving and light masonry. A battery charge indicator helps keep track of remaining power before starting a job.
The trade-off is that the drill’s torque and speed sit below the premium brushless FATMAX models, and buyers who do not need a spare flashlight are effectively paying for an accessory bundled in rather than getting extra drill performance.
Pros
- Bundled flashlight adds genuine practical value for home use
- Both tools share one 18V battery and charger
- Hammer function covers occasional light masonry work
- Battery charge indicator is a handy practical touch
Cons
- Drill performance is more modest than premium brushless FATMAX kits
- Only a single 2.0Ah battery, shared between two tools
- Not brushless, so runtime and motor lifespan are lower than higher-tier options
Key specs: 18V · drill + 140-lumen flashlight bundle · 50Nm torque · hammer action to 25,500 BPM · 2.0Ah battery & charger
8. DongCheng Compact Drill Driver DIY Kit
The DongCheng Compact Drill Driver Kit is built for first-time drill owners who want everything needed for basic home DIY in a single box, without having to research and buy accessories separately. It comes as a 17-piece set covering drilling, driving and light maintenance tasks.
At just 1.3kg, the drill itself is light and easy to handle for users who are less used to power tools, which reduces fatigue and makes one-handed use more comfortable. The kit includes two 2.0Ah batteries, so there is always a charged spare on hand.
The two-speed gearbox (0-400 RPM and 0-1500 RPM) combined with 18+1 clutch settings gives beginners enough control to avoid overdriving screws while still having power for drilling into wood, metal or plastic. A built-in LED light helps when working in cabinets or dim areas.
As a budget-focused brand, it does not carry the same name recognition or established service network as Bosch, Makita or DeWalt, so buyers should treat this as an entry-level toolkit rather than a long-term trade tool.
Pros
- Complete 17-piece kit ready to use out of the box
- Lightweight 1.3kg body is easy for beginners to control
- Two batteries included, reducing downtime between charges
- Built-in LED light aids visibility in tight or dark spaces
Cons
- Less established brand than major power tool manufacturers
- No hammer function, so unsuitable for masonry
- Accessories in the bundle are basic rather than trade-grade
Key specs: 20V · 2x 2.0Ah batteries & charger · 40Nm torque · 2-speed (0-400/0-1500 RPM) · 17-piece accessory kit
9. Black+Decker 18V Drill Driver
The Black+Decker 18V Drill Driver is a simple, no-frills option for buyers who mainly need a drill for occasional household jobs and do not want to spend heavily on features they will rarely use. It is one of the more affordable complete kits in this line-up.
The tool has a comfortable anti-slip handle and an integrated LED light to help illuminate the work area, which is a thoughtful touch at this price point. It includes a 1.5Ah lithium-ion battery and matching charger, so it is ready to use immediately.
A variable speed switch and 10-position clutch give reasonable control for common tasks like assembling furniture, hanging shelves or driving screws into timber. The fade-free lithium-ion battery should hold its charge better between uses than older nickel-based batteries.
This is very much an entry-level drill: the 1.5Ah battery is smaller than most others in this batch, there is no hammer function, and torque is on the lower side, so it is best suited to light jobs rather than sustained or heavy-duty work.
Pros
- Affordable complete kit with battery and charger included
- Comfortable anti-slip grip and built-in LED work light
- Fade-free lithium-ion battery for reliable charge retention
- Simple, beginner-friendly controls
Cons
- Smaller 1.5Ah battery than most other kits in this comparison
- No hammer function or brushless motor
- Stock levels on this listing can run low, so check availability before buying
Key specs: 18V · 1.5Ah battery & 400mA charger · 10-position clutch · variable speed · integrated LED light
10. MasterSpec 12V Cordless Drill Driver Set
The MasterSpec 47-Piece 12V Cordless Drill Driver Set is built for home DIYers who want a drill plus a broader hand tool kit in one purchase, useful for furniture assembly, small repairs and general household maintenance. It is a generic brand rather than a household name, but the bundle content is genuinely comprehensive.
Tools in the set are described as high-grade steel with non-slip comfort grip handles, and everything is housed in a sturdy blow-moulded case that keeps pieces organised and easy to find. The drill itself is compact and modest in power compared with the 18V and 20V options in this line-up.
The standout feature is the inclusion of two batteries, so one can be charging while the other is in use, which is handy for longer projects or when the drill sees more frequent use than a single battery can comfortably cover. An 18+1 position clutch and variable speed trigger add reasonable control for a 12V tool.
Being a 12V drill, torque and drilling capacity are lower than the 18V and 20V options in this comparison, so it suits light DIY and repair work rather than heavier construction-style jobs.
Pros
- Two batteries included, useful for longer or more frequent use
- Comprehensive 47-piece kit with hand tools and drill bits included
- Compact 12V body is easy to handle for less experienced users
- Sturdy carry case keeps everything organised
Cons
- Lower torque and power than the 18V/20V drills in this comparison
- Generic brand without the backing of major power tool manufacturers
- Included hand tools are basic rather than trade quality
Key specs: 12V · 2x lithium-ion batteries included · 20Nm torque · 18+1 clutch positions · 47-piece tool set
How to Choose a Cordless Drill
Voltage
A 12V drill is light and easy to handle for furniture assembly and small repairs. An 18V or 20V drill gives noticeably more torque and drilling capacity for renovation work, decking or occasional masonry.
Hammer function
If you’ll ever need to drill into brick or concrete, choose a hammer drill driver rather than a standard drill. For timber, plasterboard and metal, a hammer function adds cost without adding value.
Kit vs bare tool
A complete kit with battery and charger is simplest for a first drill. A bare tool is better value if you already own batteries on the same brand’s platform, avoiding paying for duplicates.
Chuck size and torque
A 13mm chuck accepts a wider range of bit shank sizes than a 10mm chuck. For everyday jobs, 20-40Nm of torque is usually enough, while 50Nm or more suits denser timber or repeated heavy use.
For the rest of the workshop, the guides to circular saws, ladders and moisture meters are worth a look.
Verdict
The Bosch UniversalImpact 18V-60 is our overall pick for most Kiwi households, combining a hammer function, brushless motor and a complete kit at a reasonable price. Tradespeople and serious DIYers after more power should look at the Stanley FATMAX V20 Premium, while anyone on a tight budget can still get a full kit with the Black+Decker 18V. Matching voltage and hammer capability to the jobs you actually do will matter more than chasing the highest torque figure on the page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a cordless drill driver and a hammer drill?
A standard drill driver rotates the bit continuously and is designed for drilling holes and driving screws into wood, metal and plastic. A hammer drill adds a rapid hammering action behind the rotation, which lets it punch through masonry, brick and concrete. Many combi drills let the user switch between the two modes, so a single tool can cover both jobs.
What voltage cordless drill do I need for home DIY?
For light household tasks like assembling furniture or hanging shelves, a 12V compact drill is usually enough and is easier to handle. For general home renovation, deck building or occasional masonry work, an 18V or 20V drill provides noticeably more torque and drilling capacity. Higher voltage generally means more power but also a heavier, bulkier tool.
Is it better to buy a drill kit or a tool-only (bare) drill?
A kit including a battery and charger is the simplest option if this is a first drill or the buyer has no existing batteries from that brand. A tool-only (bare) drill is better value for someone who already owns compatible batteries from the same brand’s platform, since it avoids paying for duplicate batteries and chargers.
What does a brushless motor actually improve on a cordless drill?
A brushless motor removes the physical brushes used in older motor designs, which reduces friction, heat and wear over time. In practice this typically means longer battery runtime per charge, a longer overall motor lifespan and often a more compact motor housing, though brushless drills usually cost more than brushed equivalents.
How much torque and chuck size do I need for typical drilling jobs?
For everyday household drilling and screwdriving, 20 to 40Nm of torque with a 10mm or 13mm chuck is generally sufficient. Heavier jobs, larger fasteners or repeated use in denser timber benefit from 50Nm or more, which is common on higher-end 18V hammer drill drivers. A 13mm chuck also accepts a wider range of drill bit shank sizes than a 10mm chuck.
How long should a cordless drill battery and charge last?
Runtime depends heavily on the battery’s amp-hour (Ah) rating, with 1.5Ah to 2.0Ah suiting light, occasional use and 4.0Ah or higher suiting longer sessions or heavier drilling. A basic charger usually takes several hours for a full charge, while fast chargers included with some kits can recharge a battery in around an hour. Buying a kit with two batteries lets one charge while the other is in use, effectively doubling working time.
