In this article, we spent countless hours researching and testing ten right angle drills to identify the ones that offer the best performance, convenience, and value. Our top pick for the best right angle drill is the DEWALT 20V MAX* Right Angle Drill (DCD740B).
A right angle drill is a versatile tool that can help you reach tight spaces with ease. It is a type of drill that has a 90-degree angled head, allowing you to drill or drive screws in areas that are difficult to reach with a traditional drill.
This type of drill is ideal for DIY enthusiasts, professional contractors, and anyone who needs to work in tight spaces.
When looking for the best right angle drill, there are a few critical things to consider. The first thing to consider is the power source.
Right angle drills can be corded or cordless. Corded drills are more powerful and can handle tougher jobs, but they require an electrical outlet. Cordless drills are more convenient and portable, but they may not be as powerful as corded drills.
Another thing to consider is the chuck size. The chuck is the part of the drill that holds the drill bit or screwdriver bit (check out the best benchtop drill press).
A larger chuck can hold larger bits, which is essential if you need to drill larger holes or drive larger screws. However, a larger chuck can also make the drill heavier and more challenging to handle.
Best Right Angle Drills
When it comes to drilling in tight spaces, a right angle drill is the perfect tool for the job. These drills are designed to fit into narrow areas and corners that a regular drill cannot reach.
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, having the right angle drill in your toolkit can save you time and effort.
In this article, we’ve rounded up the best right angle drills available on Amazon. These drills have been selected based on their performance, durability, and customer reviews. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the list.
1. DEWALT 20V MAX* Right Angle Drill (DCD740B)
This right angle drill is a great investment if you’re looking for a powerful, versatile, and compact tool that can help you reach tight spaces with ease.
Pros
- Offers dual speed ranges for increased flexibility
- Compact front-to-back length allows users to fit into hard-to-reach spaces
- Multi-grip trigger provides comfort and convenience, even in tight spaces
Cons
- A bit heavy
- Tensioning chuck instead of a quick-release chuck
- Battery not included
This drill is a powerful and well-built tool that can handle a wide range of applications. Its dual speed ranges provide increased user flexibility, allowing you to adjust the speed to fit your needs.
The compact front-to-back length of this drill is a great feature that makes it easy to fit into hard-to-reach spaces. Additionally, the multi-grip trigger provides comfort and convenience, even in tight spaces.
However, this drill is a bit heavy, which may make it challenging to use for extended periods. Additionally, the tensioning chuck can be a bit tricky to use, especially if you’re used to using a quick-release chuck.
Lastly, it’s worth noting that the battery is not included in this drill.
Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful and versatile right angle drill that can help you reach tight spaces with ease, the DEWALT 20V MAX* Right Angle Drill is a great investment.
2. Milwaukee 2415-20 M12 Cordless Right Angle Drill
If you’re looking for a compact, versatile right angle drill driver, the Milwaukee 2415-20 M12 is worth considering.
Pros
- The 3/8-inch single-sleeve ratcheting chuck allows for maximum versatility and grip, making it easy to change bits quickly and securely.
- An extended paddle switch allows for controlled use in multiple positions, making it easy to use in tight spaces.
- The electronic clutch with 11 settings plus drill mode provides complete control over the tool, allowing you to tackle a wide range of drilling tasks.
Cons
- The direction switch can be a bit cumbersome to use, especially for those with larger hands.
- The tool does not come with a battery, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you don’t already have one.
- Some users have reported that the chuck can loosen over time, requiring frequent tightening.
Overall, the Milwaukee 2415-20 M12 is a solid choice for those in need of a compact, versatile right angle drill driver.
Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to use in tight spaces, while its electronic clutch and variable speed control provide complete control over the tool.
Just be aware that the direction switch can be a bit tricky to use, and you’ll need to purchase a battery separately.
3. Milwaukee C18RAD-0 M18 Right Angle Drill Driver
If you’re looking for a versatile and powerful right angle drill driver, the Milwaukee C18RAD-0 M18 is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The variable speed feature allows for precise control and easy adjustment to different materials and tasks.
- The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to use in tight spaces and reduces user fatigue.
- The high-quality engineering and construction of the tool ensure durability and longevity.
Cons
- This is a bare unit, meaning it does not come with a battery or charger, which will need to be purchased separately.
- The maximum torque of 20 Newton meters may not be sufficient for heavy-duty tasks.
- The price point is higher compared to other right angle drill drivers in the market.
The Milwaukee C18RAD-0 M18 Right Angle Drill Driver provides excellent performance and versatility for a wide range of tasks.
The variable speed feature allows for precise control and easy adjustment to different materials and tasks, making it a great choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to use in tight spaces, such as cabinets and corners and reduces user fatigue during extended use.
The high-quality engineering and construction of the tool ensure durability and longevity, making it a great investment for those who need a reliable and long-lasting tool.
However, it is important to note that this is a bare unit, which means it does not come with a battery or charger, and these will need to be purchased separately.
While the maximum torque of 20 Newton meters may not be sufficient for heavy-duty tasks, it is still adequate for most applications.
Additionally, the price point is higher compared to other right angle drill drivers in the market, but the quality and performance of the Milwaukee C18RAD-0 M18 Right Angle Drill Driver make it worth the investment for those who need a reliable and versatile tool.
4. RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Right Angle Drill
If you’re looking for a compact and versatile right angle drill, the RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless Compact Right Angle Drill is a great option.
Pros
- With a length of just 3.6 inches, this drill is perfect for working in tight spaces and completing overhead applications for prolonged periods of time.
- The brushless motor provides longer runtime, longer motor life, and more power than previous models, delivering up to 350 in./lbs. of torque.
- The variable speed paddle trigger is designed for comfort and convenience, making it easier to grip in multiple positions no matter the space.
Cons
- The batteries and charger are sold separately, which can add to the overall cost.
- Some users have reported that the chuck can be difficult to tighten properly.
- The LED work light could be brighter for working in darker spaces.
Overall, the RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless Compact 3/8 in. Right Angle Drill is a solid choice for DIYers and professionals alike who need a compact and versatile tool for close-quarter drilling and fastening applications.
With its ergonomic design and powerful motor, it’s definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best right angle drill, there are several factors to consider. Here are some important features to keep in mind:
Chuck Size
The chuck size is an important factor to consider when choosing a right angle drill. A larger chuck size allows for larger drill bits to be used, which can be helpful for heavier-duty tasks.
However, a smaller chuck size may be more versatile and easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
Power
The power of a right angle drill is measured in amps or volts (find out the best 12V cordless drill).
Higher power drills can handle tougher jobs, but may also be heavier and more difficult to handle. Consider the types of tasks you will be using the drill for to determine the appropriate power level.
Speed
The speed of a right angle drill is measured in rotations per minute (RPM). Variable speed options allow for greater control and precision when drilling. Consider the types of materials you will be drilling into to determine the appropriate speed range.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics play an important role in the comfort and ease of use of a right angle drill. Look for features such as a comfortable grip, adjustable handle, and a lightweight design to minimize fatigue during use.
Accessories
Consider the accessories that come with the right angle drill, such as drill bits and carrying cases. Some models may come with additional features such as LED lights or a built-in level, which can be helpful for certain tasks.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best right angle drill for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand offers the best performance in corded right angle drills?
When it comes to corded right angle drills, there are several brands that offer excellent performance.
However, some of the top brands include DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Makita (check out the comparison between Makita vs Milwaukee). These brands are known for their quality, durability, and high-performance tools.
What are the top features to look for in a cordless right angle drill?
When choosing a cordless right angle drill, there are several features to consider. These include the battery life, the power output, the chuck size, and the overall weight of the drill. It’s also important to choose a drill with a comfortable grip and easy-to-use controls.
How do right-angle drills fare when working with tough materials like metal or steel?
Right angle drills are designed to handle tough materials like metal or steel. They are often used in construction, automotive repair, and other heavy-duty applications. However, it’s important to choose a drill with the right power and torque for the job.
Can you recommend a durable attachment for converting a standard drill into a right angle drill?
Yes, there are several durable attachments available for converting a standard drill into a right angle drill.
Some of the top options include the DEWALT Right Angle Attachment, the Milwaukee Right Angle Attachment, and the Makita Right Angle Drill Attachment (here’s what we think of Ryobi versus Makita).
What are the advantages of using a right angle impact wrench over a regular drill?
A right angle impact wrench is designed for heavy-duty applications, such as automotive repair and construction.
It provides more power and torque than a regular drill, making it easier to loosen and tighten bolts and screws. It’s also more durable and long-lasting than a regular drill.
In what situations is a heavy-duty right angle drill considered essential?
A heavy-duty right angle drill is considered essential in situations where high torque and power are needed. This includes construction, automotive repair, and other heavy-duty applications. It’s also useful for working in tight spaces where a regular drill won’t fit.