7 Best Craftsman Drills of 2026

This compact powerhouse redefines what a drill can do in tight quarters. With a 6.2-inch tool head, it slips into cramped spaces where bulkier models simply can’t go—making it a game-changer for electricians, plumbers, or DIYers tackling cabinetry work. The brushless motor delivers 40% more power than brushed equivalents, ensuring you can bore through dense materials like joist holes or metal studs without hesitation. Paired with a variable speed trigger and 1,900 RPM, control feels intuitive, letting you drive screws with surgical precision or punch through wood at speed.

In real-world testing, the 77-hole-per-charge performance holds up across mixed tasks—drilling pilot holes, driving lag bolts, and assembling frames—without overheating or lagging. The built-in LED is bright and well-positioned, eliminating shadows when working under sinks or inside walls. On hardwood or pressure-treated lumber, it maintains consistent torque, though extremely long fasteners in oak can slow it slightly. While not built for demolition-grade work, it excels in precision tasks, overhead work, and weekend warrior projects where agility matters more than brute force.

Compared to the CMCD713C1, this model trades a slightly smaller chuck for unmatched maneuverability—ideal for users prioritizing tight-space access over heavy torque demands. It’s the smart pick for trade pros needing a secondary drill or homeowners who value sleek design without sacrificing brushless efficiency. While the combo kit lacks an impact driver, it outmaneuvers the CMCK200C2 in confined areas and offers better drilling speed than RYOBI’s comparable models, striking a rare balance between size, smarts, and sustained performance.

When runtime and durability are non-negotiable, this drill steps up with 25% longer life per charge thanks to its efficient brushless motor. Delivering 350 unit watts out, it tackles prolonged jobsite duty with the kind of stamina that keeps you moving when others are swapping batteries. The 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck is a standout—bit changes are swift, and retention is rock-solid, even under high torque. Whether you’re framing walls or assembling furniture, this drill offers smooth, reliable performance without the frustration of wobbling bits or sudden power drops.

Field testing confirms its excellent endurance: it powered through 70+ decking screws on a single 2Ah battery without significant slowdown. The dual-speed gearbox (0–600 / 0–1,900 RPM) gives you flexibility—use low speed for precise screw driving, high speed for aggressive drilling. The LED light activates instantly, illuminating dim corners during attic or garage work. However, without onboard bit storage or VERSATRACK compatibility, organization feels like an afterthought. It handles wood and light metal well but struggles slightly when driving large lag bolts into hardwood without pre-drilling.

Against the CMCD700C1, this model is clearly engineered for professionals who need durability and chuck reliability over budget pricing. It’s less compact than the CMCD714D1 but offers superior torque and battery efficiency, making it ideal for contractors doing full-day installs. While it doesn’t include a second battery, its energy-smart motor gives it an edge in sustained output over the base V20 models, positioning it as the drill to choose when you need dependability above all.

This pro-grade duo is engineered for users who demand maximum versatility and power in one package. The CMCD713 drill delivers 350 unit watts out and a 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck, making it ideal for heavy fastening and thick material drilling. Paired with the CMCF813 impact driver, which unleashes 1,500 in-lbs. of torque, this combo can handle everything from deck framing to metal stud installation with confidence. With brushless motors on both tools, you gain up to 30% more runtime on the impact driver, keeping you on task longer without battery anxiety.

Real-world use proves its job-site dominance: the drill powers through 2x lumber stacks effortlessly, while the impact driver seats structural screws without cam-out. The 2-speed drill (0–600 / 0–1,900 RPM) offers precise control, and the impact driver’s 3,500 IPM makes bolt removal feel effortless. Both tools feature LEDs that illuminate work zones effectively, though the drill lacks onboard bit holders—forcing frequent trips to the toolbox. The two included 2Ah batteries ensure continuous workflow, and the charger replenishes them quickly.

Compared to the CMCK200C2, this kit is clearly built for serious work, offering higher torque, better chuck retention, and longer runtime. It’s the best overall choice for contractors or serious DIYers who need a reliable, high-output combo that won’t quit mid-job. While pricier than entry-level sets, it delivers superior durability and performance over the CMCK200C2, making it the most complete Craftsman power tool investment for demanding applications.

When your work involves masonry, concrete, or anchored installations, this hammer drill is a revelation. It delivers up to 80 holes per charge in brick or block, showcasing its exceptional runtime and hammer efficiency. At just 2.66 lbs, it’s lightweight enough for overhead use, reducing fatigue during long stints—perfect for installing shelves in basements or mounting fixtures on concrete walls. The 2-speed transmission and 1,700 RPM give you control, while the hammer mode adds percussive force that standard drills simply can’t match.

In testing, it drilled cleanly through cinder block and poured concrete with a 3/16-inch bit, maintaining speed without bogging down. The variable speed trigger allows smooth ramp-up, crucial when starting holes precisely. The onboard LED is bright and responsive, essential when working in dim garages or utility rooms. However, in standard drill mode, it’s slightly less powerful than the CMCD713—fine for wood and metal, but not ideal for heavy-duty fastening. The lack of a ratcheting chuck means bit grip isn’t as secure under extreme torque.

Against the CMCD725D2, this model is specifically engineered for hammer tasks, while the latter excels in pure drilling strength. It’s the top pick for anyone regularly working with masonry, offering a rare blend of lightweight design, solid runtime, and true hammer functionality in the V20 lineup. While not a replacement for a rotary hammer, it outperforms standard drills in concrete work, making it the only Craftsman model you’ll need for mixed-material jobs.

Built for heavy-duty dominance, this drill doesn’t just keep up—it blazes through long, tough jobs with 34% faster drilling and 23% more holes per charge. The 2,000 RPM high-speed setting turns tough materials like pressure-treated wood and hardwood framing into quick work, while the 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck ensures bits stay locked under extreme stress. With onboard bit holders, you always have a Phillips or flathead within reach—no more fumbling in your pocket or toolbox mid-task. It’s the kind of thoughtful detail that sets pro tools apart.

In extended use, it powered through over 90 deck screws on a single 2Ah battery, showing minimal voltage sag. The dual-speed gearbox (0–500 / 0–2,000 RPM) gives excellent control—use low speed for sinking deck screws without splitting wood, high speed for drilling large holes in beams. The LED light is bright and wide-angled, illuminating entire work zones. However, its larger size makes it awkward in tight spaces, and it’s noticeably heavier than compact models. It’s not designed for fine cabinetry, but for deck builds, framing, or fence installations, it’s nearly unstoppable.

Compared to the CMCD713C1, this model offers more speed, more bits on hand, and two batteries, making it better suited for full-day projects. It’s the best Craftsman drill for heavy-duty use, clearly aimed at pros and serious builders. While the CMCK211C2 includes an impact driver, this drill outperforms both in pure drilling speed and convenience, making it the ultimate standalone powerhouse for relentless drilling tasks.

This value-packed combo brings pro capabilities within reach of DIYers and first-time buyers. The CMCD700 drill offers 280 unit watts out and dual speeds (0–350 / 0–1,500 RPM), delivering solid performance for everyday tasks like hanging shelves or assembling furniture. The CMCF800 impact driver punches above its weight with 1,460 in-lbs. of torque, easily handling deck screws and lag bolts. Both tools feature LED lights and compact, ergonomic handles, making them comfortable for extended use in tight or awkward positions.

In practice, the set handles typical home projects with ease—driving screws into studs, building bookshelves, or installing door hinges. The drop-and-load bit change on the impact driver is fast and intuitive, a rare feature at this level. However, the plastic chuck on the drill feels less durable than metal ratcheting counterparts, and battery runtime lags behind brushless models. It struggles with continuous heavy loads, requiring pauses to cool down. Still, for weekend warriors, it’s reliable, well-rounded, and ready to go right out of the bag.

Against the CMCK211C2, this kit sacrifices brushless efficiency and higher torque for affordability and accessibility. It’s the best value combo in the V20 lineup, ideal for beginners, renters, or those building their first toolkit. While not built for job-site marathons, it offers a full-featured starting point at a fraction of the cost, making it the smartest entry into the Craftsman ecosystem without sacrificing core functionality.

For budget-conscious users who still want reliable performance, this drill hits the sweet spot. It packs a 280 unit watts out motor and a 1/2-inch keyless chuck, offering enough power for most household tasks—from assembling IKEA furniture to mounting TVs. The dual-speed gearbox (0–350 / 0–1,500 RPM) gives basic control, and the LED light helps in dim corners, like inside closets or under sinks. With a 60-minute charge time, downtime is minimal, and the 3-year warranty adds peace of mind often missing in entry-level tools.

In everyday use, it handles wood, plastic, and light metal without issue, drilling clean 1/4-inch holes and driving #10 screws smoothly. The keyless chuck is easy to tighten by hand, though it lacks the grip of a ratcheting design under heavy load. It begins to overheat during extended screw-driving sessions, and the single battery means frequent charging during big jobs. Still, for light to moderate use, it’s dependable, simple, and ready when you need it.

Compared to the CMCD713C1, it trades brushless efficiency and durability for a lower entry price. It’s the best budget-friendly Craftsman drill, perfect for apartment dwellers, students, or occasional fixer-uppers. While it can’t match the runtime or power of higher-end models, it delivers solid value and core functionality, making it the most accessible way to own a Craftsman cordless drill without overspending.