Plus, they operate with less friction than brushed motors, allowing them to work more efficiently. They also have fewer moving parts, and because there are no brushes, you never need to think about replacing them.

Unlike brushed motors that run at the same rate whether you’re drilling into a softwood, such as pine, or a hardwood, like oak-thereby draining the battery-brushless motors adjust to the level of resistance they encounter and use up less energy. Not long ago, brushless motors (as opposed to the more prevalent brushed variety) were reserved for contractor-oriented brands such as DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee, but now they’re available in modestly priced consumer drills from the likes of Kobalt, Porter-Cable, and Ridgid. Many of today’s cordless drills also benefit from a motor makeover. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, Li-ion batteries have improved so much over the past decade that a newer drill might run 50 percent longer than a drill from seven years ago. Most cordless drills these days run on lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, which deliver more power and longer run times in a lighter package than before. You might even need your drill to service other tools. It’s the one you’ll rely on for big projects, such as building a deck and remodeling a kitchen, and for smaller tasks, like installing fixtures and assembling furniture.

A cordless drill is the most essential power tool you’ll buy.

Lightweight cordless drill