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Not everyone needs pro-level torque or a full trade-spec tool kit. If you just want a drill that handles flat-packs, curtain rails, shelves, furniture, or occasional DIY jobs — this guide shows the best value drills for under ~£70–£80 (or slightly more if you want a reliable step-up).
⚡ Quick Takeaway
For home use, light renovation or occasional DIY, spend as little as £40–£60 and you can get a drill that’s good enough for most jobs. You don’t need top-end torque — you need reliable performance + low weight + battery flexibility.
If you anticipate heavier work later, spend a little more (~£60–£90) and aim for a drill with an 18 V battery, decent torque, brushless (preferably), and good ergonomics.
🔍 What to Look for in a Budget Drill (UK Home Use)
- Cordless (18 V) with lithium-ion battery — gives freedom from mains. Which?+2Screwfix+2
- Brushless or efficient brushed motor — improves battery life, reduces heat and maintenance. GearLab+1
- Moderate torque (enough for wood, drywall, light masonry anchors) — usually fine for shelves, furniture, light renovation. Which?+2The Independent+2
- Compact & light build — easier for overhead jobs, DIY, home projects. Which?+1
- Good battery / charger ecosystem (or included kit) — avoids surprise cost later. Which?+1
🛠️ Recommended Budget Drills (UK)
Bosch Cordless Combi Drill EasyImpact 18V‑40
£52.00
Argos + others
BLACK+DECKER 18V Combi Hammer Drill
£42.00
Currys + others
Ryobi 18V Cordless Compact Drill Driver
£50.00
B&Q + others
STANLEY FatMax V20 18V Cordless Combi Drill
£64.99
Halfords + others
Wickes 18V 1 x 1.5Ah Li-Ion Cordless Combi Drill
£49.00
Wickes
Black & Decker BCD001C 18V Cordless Drill Driver
£44.98
•Toolstation + others
Einhell TC-CD 18-35 Li Cordless Drill Driver
£62.00
Argos + others
Mac Allister 18V Li-Ion Brushed Cordless Combi Drill
£49.00
B&Q + others
🧰 Quick Highlights
- Bosch Cordless Combi Drill EasyImpact 18V‑40 — Strong value pick for 2026. Good ergonomics, reliable build, balanced for most household jobs. Great “first drill” if you want a known-brand tool under £60.
- BLACK+DECKER 18V Combi Hammer Drill — Excellent if you want a budget hammer-drill capable of basic masonry or wall anchors. Very affordable and sufficient for common home-improvement tasks.
- Ryobi 18V Cordless Compact Drill Driver — Good all-rounder for furniture assembly, shelving, interior renovations. Lightweight and battery-swappable across Ryobi’s ONE+ line, offering future expandability.
- STANLEY FatMax V20 18V Cordless Combi Drill — A step up in build quality and runtime. Good balance between price and usability for heavier home DIY or light renovation.
- Wickes 18V 1 x 1.5Ah Li-Ion Cordless Combi Drill — Near-entry level but surprisingly capable for the money. Basic torque and speed — good for flat-packs, light fixes, household jobs.
- Black & Decker BCD001C 18V Cordless Drill Driver — Solid starter kit drill — reliable for screwdriving, light woodwork, and occasional DIY. Good budget entry point under £50.
- Einhell TC-CD 18-35 Li Cordless Drill Driver — A budget-friendly, no-frills drill that gets the basics done. Not super powerful but a reasonable entry-level tool if you just need occasional household drilling/screwing.
- Mac Allister 18V Li-Ion Brushed Cordless Combi Drill — Entry-level utility drill with acceptable performance for light tasks and DIY around the house; a solid “household toolkit” starter.
✅ Who Each Drill Is Best For (2026)
- New DIYer / occasional home-owner: Bosch EasyImpact, Ryobi Compact, Wickes, Black & Decker — all good starter drills that handle furniture, shelves, curtain rails, basic wood or metalwork.
- Budget-conscious renovator / light DIY: STANLEY FatMax, Einhell — provide better build and runtime without big cost, good for home maintenance or periodic projects.
- Light masonry / home improvement (brick anchors, wall plugs): BLACK+DECKER Combi Hammer Drill — for those tasks that need a bit more punch without jumping to trade-spec tools.
- Anyone testing out cordless tools or building a basic tool kit: Bosch or Ryobi offer good brand support and easy battery upgrading/expansion later.
🎯 Final 2026 Advice (Budget Drill Edition)
If you’re not a full-time builder or tradesperson: a budget cordless drill under £60–£80 is more than enough for everyday jobs (flat-pack, shelf-hanging, light renovation).
Go for a known brand + 18 V lithium battery + combi/hammer capability if you want flexibility.
Save money now — but buy something you can grow with (battery compatibility, modest torque, decent ergonomics).