How to choose your first power drill for D.I.Y.

Key points: choosing your first power drill

If you’re new to D.I.Y., here’s some important information to keep in mind:

• A drill driver is ideal for drilling pilot holes or for screwing in screws.
• If you will be drilling into concrete or bricks, select a drill that has a hammer drill setting.
• Look for a lightweight cordless drill with simple controls.
• A rechargeable battery that feels comfortable (lighter can be easier but often means lower run time due to smaller AH)
• Select a power drill with adjustable speed settings and a clutch so you can work slowly
• practical extras like an LED light and starter drill bits are handy
• match the drill type to your projects (drill driver or hammer drill)
• Consider buying a drill driver in a kit as this offers the best value. Kits typically include a battery and charger to get you started.

Start with a cordless drill that feels manageable

A cordless drill driver is a practical first power drill for drilling holes and driving screws in timber, plasterboard and thin metal. “If you’re just starting out, focus on a lightweight cordless drill with simple controls — it’ll feel less intimidating and easier to handle,” says Building Lead Buyer Daniel Gibney.

When you’re choosing, hold the drill with the battery fitted and check it feels balanced, easy to grip and not too heavy for your wrist.

Pick the right drill type for your jobs

Most beginners will choose between:

Drill driver

Good for general drilling and screw driving, like assembling flat pack furniture, hanging hooks and fitting light shelving.

Hammer drill

Adds a tapping action to help drill into brick and masonry, which can be useful for garages, sheds and outdoor walls. If you’re planning to drill into brick, then look for a drill with a hammer setting and use masonry drill bits.

Battery basics: run time versus weight

Battery voltage (often 12V or 18V) and capacity, are measured in amp hours (Ah). Bigger batteries can last longer, but they can also add weight. “Battery size matters for beginners. A smaller battery is usually lighter, which makes longer D.I.Y. jobs more comfortable,” says Gibney. If you’re planning longer jobs, having a second battery can help you keep moving while one charges.

Learn control with speed settings and a clutch

“Look for a drill with adjustable speed settings so you can take things slow while you’re learning,” says Gibney.

Two beginner-friendly features to understand:

• variable-speed trigger: squeeze gently for a slow start, then speed up as needed
• clutch ring (numbers behind the chuck): helps reduce over-tightening when driving screws.

Tip: start with a lower clutch setting and increase it gradually until the screw sits neatly.

Choose a simple starter bit set

A keyless chuck (tightened by hand) makes changing bits easier. For learning, a basic set of drill bits can cover many early jobs. “For first time users, a basic drill that comes with a few starter bits is often better than buying something overly powerful,” says Gibney.

A simple starter set may include:

• driver bits for screws
• timber drill bits for pilot holes
• masonry drill bits for drilling into brick

Helpful extras that make first jobs easier

“A cordless drill with built in LED lighting is surprisingly helpful when you’re working in garages, sheds or tight spaces,” says Gibney. Other handy extras include a compact body for corners and a battery charge indicator.

Safety basics before you drill

Whenever you’re working with a drill, keep the following safety tips in mind:

• Wear safety glasses and closed shoes
• Tie back long hair and avoid loose clothing
• Clamp your work so it can’t spin or slip
• Use hearing protection when drilling masonry
• Wear a dust mask for fine dust Remove the battery (or unplug the drill) before changing bits.

Tip: Importantly, before drilling into walls, check for electrical cables and pipes. If you suspect materials that may contain asbestos, stop and seek professional advice before drilling or cutting.

Getting started with your new power drill

Once you’re ready to use your new drill for the first time, read and watch ‘How to use power drills’, it’s a handy guide that will run you through the basics of how to use a power drill. Then, if your’re ready to try a project with your new drill, check out How to install timber panels – this is a beginner-friendly project that will give you the opportunity to practise drilling straight and driving screws slowly.

Beginner tips:

• practise on a scrap piece of timber first
• pre-drill small pilot holes to guide screws
• start slow and use steady pressure

Next step: explore power drills

Ready to choose your drill? Explore power drills online, or compare weight and grip at your local store to find a drill that feels comfortable for your first D.I.Y. jobs.

Frequently asked questions

Which power drill should a beginner buy first?

A lightweight cordless drill driver with simple controls, adjustable speed settings and a clutch is a useful first power drill for many home D.I.Y. jobs.

Do I need a hammer drill for brick?

If you’ll drill into brick or masonry, choose a drill with a hammer setting and use masonry drill bits. For timber and plasterboard, a drill driver usually suits.

What’s the difference between 12V and 18V cordless drills?

A 12V drill is often smaller and lighter. An 18V cordless drill is common for bigger home jobs. Choose the one that feels manageable.

Which drill bits do I need to start?

Start with driver bits plus timber drill bits for pilot holes. Add masonry bits if you’re planning to drill into brick or concrete.

How do I change a drill bit safely?

Remove the battery (or unplug the tool), open the keyless chuck, insert the bit fully, then tighten the chuck firmly by hand.