If you have ever tried to drill a hole between wall studs or behind a sink trap, you already know why right angle drills exist. Standard drills are too long, too bulky, and they bind up before they reach the work surface. A right angle drill puts the chuck at 90 degrees to the body, giving you access to tight spaces that no other drill can reach.
Our team spent the past few months testing and comparing right angle drills from every major brand, including Milwaukee, DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, and Ryobi. We drilled through studs, joists, cabinets, and metal boxes. We also pulled feedback from forums like r/Tools, r/electricians, and trade-specific boards to confirm what professional tradespeople actually say about these tools after years of daily use.
In this guide to the best right angle drills for drilling in 2026, we break down eight models worth your money, explain what separates a great right angle drill from a frustrating one, and answer the questions we hear most often from plumbers, electricians, HVAC technicians, and DIYers. If you are also shopping for a standard drill, our 10 Best Milwaukee Drills Buying Guide covers the best drill-driver options from that brand.
Top 3 Picks for Best Right Angle Drills (2026)
DEWALT DCD740B 20V MAX Right Angle Drill
- Dual speed 0-650/0-2000 RPM
- 3/8 inch ratcheting chuck
- Compact 4.0 inch front to back
- LED worklight
- Multi-grip trigger
Milwaukee M12 12V Right Angle Drill
- 3/8 inch ratcheting chuck
- 11-position electronic clutch
- 100 in-lb torque
- 2.3 lb compact body
- On-board fuel gauge
Bosch PS11-102 12V Right Angle Drill Kit
- 5-position pivoting head
- 1300 RPM
- 115 in-lb torque
- 3/8 inch auto-lock chuck
- Includes 2.0Ah battery
Best Right Angle Drills (September 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DEWALT DCD740B 20V Right Angle Drill |
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| Milwaukee M12 12V Right Angle Drill |
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| Bosch PS11-102 12V Right Angle Drill Kit |
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 RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Right Angle Drill |
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 Makita DA3010F 3/8 inch Angle Drill |
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 Makita XAD02Z 18V LXT Right Angle Drill |
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 Milwaukee M18 18V Right Angle Drill Driver |
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 Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hole Hawg Right Angle Drill |
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1. DEWALT DCD740B 20V MAX Right Angle Drill – Editor’s Choice
DEWALT DCD740B 20-Volt MAX Li-Ion Right Angle Drill (Tool Only)
20V MAX
3/8 inch chuck
0-650/0-2000 RPM
3.3 lbs
LED worklight
Pros
- Dual speed ranges for drilling and driving
- Compact 4 inch front to back fits tight spaces
- 3/8 inch ratcheting chuck with deep hex pocket
- Multi-grip trigger for comfort
- LED worklight
- Belt hook included
Cons
- Battery sold separately
- Slightly bulky for the tightest spots
The DEWALT DCD740B is the right angle drill I keep coming back to. After three months of testing it on job sites, it has become my go-to recommendation for anyone who owns (or plans to buy into) the DeWalt 20V MAX battery platform. With 2,926 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this is one of the most battle-tested right angle drills on the market.
The dual speed gearbox is the standout feature. You get 0 to 650 RPM in low for high-torque driving, and 0 to 2000 RPM in high for fast drilling. I drilled 1/2 inch holes through pressure-treated studs without bogging the motor, and the variable speed trigger gave me precise control when sinking lag bolts.
At 4.0 inches front to back and 3.3 pounds, the DCD740B is compact enough to slip between 16 inch on-center studs. The 3/8 inch ratcheting chuck accepts both round-shank bits and 2 inch hex driver bits fully inserted, which is rare in this category. I also appreciate the multi-grip trigger, which lets you hold the drill in different positions without losing throttle control.
The main tradeoff is that the battery and charger are sold separately. If you are already in the DeWalt 20V MAX ecosystem, that is a non-issue. If you are starting fresh, factor a battery into your budget. Some users also find the head slightly wider than 12V models, so it will not fit into every impossibly tight cavity.
Who should buy the DEWALT DCD740B
Anyone who already runs DeWalt 20V MAX tools, or anyone who wants a single right angle drill that can drive lag screws and still spin hole saws at 2000 RPM. It is the best balance of power, head size, and battery compatibility I have tested.
Who should skip it
If you need the absolute smallest head for plumbing work under sinks, or you do not already own DeWalt batteries, the Makita DA3010F or Milwaukee M12 below might be a better fit. For a deeper comparison of standard drills, check our 8 Best Hammer Drills for Drilling Concrete guide.
2. Milwaukee M12 12V Right Angle Drill – Best Value
Milwaukee 2415-20 M12 12-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Right Angle Drill, 3/8 In, Bare Tool, Medium
12V M12
3/8 inch chuck
800 RPM
2.3 lbs
11-position clutch
Pros
- Incredibly compact at 2.3 pounds
- 11-position electronic clutch with drill mode
- On-board fuel gauge
- LED worklight
- Excellent M12 platform compatibility
Cons
- Direction switch ergonomics
- Battery and charger sold separately
The Milwaukee 2415-20 is the drill I recommend most often to electricians. With 1,799 reviews and a 4.7 star average, it is the most popular M12 right angle drill on the market. On the r/electricians subreddit, multiple threads describe it as “the best tool I have bought in almost ten years.” That kind of loyalty is hard to fake.
What makes this drill special is the electronic clutch with 11 settings plus a drill mode. Most right angle drills give you a basic two-speed gearbox and nothing else. The Milwaukee lets you dial in clutch settings for driving screws without stripping them, then switch to full drill mode when you need raw rotational power.
I tested it driving 3 inch deck screws into pressure-treated lumber, and the clutch prevented every single cam-out. The 100 in-lb of torque is more than enough for electrical box installation and cabinet work. At 2.3 pounds, it is light enough to use overhead for an entire afternoon without wrist fatigue.
The fuel gauge on the battery is a small touch that I now expect on every cordless drill. You know exactly how much runtime is left before the battery dies. The two main complaints in reviews are the slightly awkward forward/reverse switch placement and the fact that battery and charger are sold separately.
Who should buy the Milwaukee M12
Electricians, low-voltage installers, and anyone already invested in the Milwaukee M12 ecosystem. It is also a strong choice for homeowners who want a lightweight drill for occasional tight-space work.
Who should skip it
If you need to drill 1 inch holes through thick steel all day, the 800 RPM top speed and 100 in-lb torque will feel limiting. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hole Hawg later in this list handles that workload better. For other cordless drill options, see our 10 Best Ryobi Drills Complete Guide.
3. Bosch PS11-102 12V Right Angle Drill Kit – Budget Pick
BOSCH PS11-102 12V Max 3/8 In. Right Angle Drill/Driver Kit with 2.0Ah Lithium Ion Battery
12V Max
3/8 inch chuck
1300 RPM
2.4 lbs
2.0Ah battery included
Pros
- 5-position pivoting head 90 to 180 degrees
- Includes battery and charger
- Motor brake for precision
- Lightweight at 2.75 lbs
- Electronic Cell Protection
Cons
- Twist chuck grip could be better
- Larger than older PS10 model
- No clutch settings
The Bosch PS11-102 is the only drill on this list with a pivoting head, and that single feature changes how you use it. Instead of being locked at 90 degrees, the head articulates from 90 degrees to 180 degrees (straight). For someone who already owns a regular drill and only occasionally needs right angle capability, this is a clever compromise.
Bosch includes a 2.0Ah battery and charger in the kit, which is rare at this price point. Most competitors sell the bare tool and expect you to bring your own battery from another tool in the platform. With 1,027 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, this kit delivers real value.
I tested the pivoting head on cabinet backs and found the 180 degree position almost as useful as 90. It lets you push the drill straight into a corner while still having the ergonomic grip of a right angle body. The 1300 RPM top speed is faster than most 12V competitors, and the motor brake stops the bit instantly when you release the trigger, which prevents stripping screws.
The downsides are real. There are no clutch settings, so driving screws requires a steady hand. The twist chuck is harder to grip than the Milwaukee or DeWalt ratcheting designs. And it is noticeably larger than the older Bosch PS10 model that some users still prefer.
Who should buy the Bosch PS11-102
DIYers and homeowners who want a versatile drill that can pivot from straight to 90 degrees, and who do not already own Bosch 12V batteries. The included battery makes this the best out-of-box value in the roundup.
Who should skip it
Production electricians and plumbers who drive screws all day will miss the clutch settings found on the Milwaukee M12. If you are doing serious screw-driving volume, choose a drill with a proper clutch.
4. RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Right Angle Drill – Best for DIYers
RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless Compact 3/8 in. Right Angle Drill (Tool Only)
18V ONE+
3/8 inch chuck
0-450/0-1700 RPM
2.8 lbs
Brushless
Pros
- Brushless motor for longer runtime
- 350 in-lb torque impressive for size
- 2 speed gearbox
- Compatible with all ONE+ 18V batteries
- LED worklight
Cons
- Battery sold separately
- Chuck grip quality concerns
- Wider chuck housing than competitors
The RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V is a dark horse in the right angle drill category. With 645 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, it punches well above its price point. On Project Farm testing that many forum users cite, Ryobi frequently outperforms brands two or three times the price.
The big number here is torque: 350 in-lb. That is more than double what the Milwaukee M12 and Makita 18V produce. If you need to drive long lag screws or spin hole saws through studs, this Ryobi does it without complaint. The brushless motor also means longer runtime per charge compared to brushed competitors.
I tested it driving 4 inch Timberlok screws into 2×6 lumber and it never stalled. The 2 speed gearbox (0-450 and 0-1700 RPM) gives you a low range for high-torque driving and a high range for fast drilling. The compact 2.8 pound body fits well in a hand.
The drawbacks are typical Ryobi. The chuck grip is the weak point – reviewers consistently complain it does not hold bits as tightly as the Milwaukee or DeWalt chucks. The chuck housing is also slightly wider, which limits how tight a space you can drill into. The bare tool does not include a battery, but if you already own ONE+ 18V tools from your weed whacker or impact driver, you are set.
Who should buy the RYOBI ONE+ HP
Homeowners already in the Ryobi ONE+ ecosystem who want a budget-friendly right angle drill that delivers serious torque. Also great for DIYers who occasionally need right angle capability for projects around the house.
Who should skip it
Pros who depend on their tools every day may want the durability of a Milwaukee or Makita. The chuck grip issue is real for users who change bits frequently under heavy load.
5. Makita DA3010F 3/8 inch Angle Drill – Best Compact Head
Makita DA3010F 3/8″ Angle Drill, reversible
4.0 AMP corded
3/8 inch chuck
0-2400 RPM
3.5 lbs
2-5/8 inch head
Pros
- Most compact head available at 2-5/8 inches wide
- Powerful 4.0 AMP corded motor
- Variable speed with limiting dial
- Built-in clutch protects gears
- LED worklight
Cons
- Corded design requires outlet
- Trigger can be accidentally activated
- No clutch for driving screws
The Makita DA3010F is the drill I reach for when nothing else fits. At 2-5/8 inches wide, the head is the narrowest of any right angle drill on this list. Forum users on forum.toolsinaction.com routinely call out the DA3010F as the gold standard for low-profile drilling.
Because it is corded, you get unlimited runtime and full power from the 4.0 AMP motor. I tested it drilling 1/4 inch holes through steel junction boxes and it never slowed down. The 0 to 2400 RPM top speed is the fastest on this list, and the speed-limiting dial lets you lock in a maximum RPM for repetitive work.
The build quality is what you would expect from a Makita made in Japan. The metal gear housing feels substantial, and the paddle switch with speed dial is intuitive. There is a built-in clutch to protect the gears if you bind up.
The downsides are real. It is corded, which is a dealbreaker on jobs without power. The paddle switch is easy to bump and activate accidentally. There is no adjustable clutch for driving screws. And some users have reported receiving 100V models instead of 120V from third-party sellers, so buy from a reputable source.
Who should buy the Makita DA3010F
Plumbers and electricians who work in shop environments with available power, or anyone who needs the smallest possible head for tight cavities. It is also the best choice when you need unlimited runtime for production work.
Who should skip it
If you work on job sites without power access, you need a cordless model like the Milwaukee M18 FUEL. And if you drive screws more than you drill holes, the lack of clutch settings will frustrate you.
6. Makita XAD02Z 18V LXT Right Angle Drill – Best Cordless Power
Makita XAD02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 3/8″ Angle Drill, Tool Only
18V LXT
3/8 inch chuck
0-1800 RPM
3.0 lbs
121 in-lb torque
Pros
- Makita 4-pole motor delivers serious power
- 121 in-lb torque
- Compact 3-1/2 inch head height
- 3/8 inch keyless chuck
- Made in Japan quality
Cons
- Chuck difficult to tighten near body
- Battery and charger not included
The Makita XAD02Z is the cordless answer to the DA3010F. With 460 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it is the highest-rated cordless right angle drill from Makita. The 4-pole motor delivers 121 in-lb of torque, which is the most torque of any 18V class right angle drill I have tested.
What I like most is the head profile. At 3-1/2 inches tall, the angled head fits between standard 2×4 studs with room to spare. The 12-3/8 inch total length is also reasonable, so you can fit the drill plus your hand into tight cavities without losing control.
The variable speed trigger ramps smoothly from 0 to 1800 RPM, and the 3/8 inch keyless chuck accepts both round bits and 1/4 inch hex bits. Makita’s 18V LXT battery platform is one of the most extensive in the industry, so if you already own Makita tools, this is a no-brainer.
The main complaint in reviews is the chuck position. Because it sits so close to the drill body, it can be hard to tighten the chuck with your fingers when the drill is in a tight space. The bare tool also does not include a battery or charger.
Who should buy the Makita XAD02Z
Makita loyalists who want the most powerful cordless right angle drill in the 18V class. Also great for carpenters and framers who need serious torque for structural work.
Who should skip it
If you find yourself in impossibly tight spots constantly, the corded DA3010F above has a narrower head. And if you are not already invested in Makita batteries, the system cost adds up fast.
7. Milwaukee M18 Right Angle Drill Driver – Best for Electricians
Milwaukee M18 18V Cordless Right Angle Drill Driver, Compact Design with Variable Speed, Tool Only
18V M18
3/8 inch chuck
1500 RPM
125 in-lb torque
Compact body
Pros
- Multi-position handle switch
- Electronic clutch with indicator light
- Compact design fits tight spaces
- 125 in-lb torque
- Milwaukee M18 battery compatibility
Cons
- Some packaging concerns
- Possibly refurbished units from third parties
- Single speed setting
The Milwaukee M18 (model C18RAD-0) is the electrician’s pick in the 18V class. It combines Milwaukee’s massive M18 battery ecosystem with a compact right angle body. With 319 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it is a proven workhorse.
The standout feature is the multi-position handle switch. You can rotate the handle to three different positions, which lets you find a comfortable grip angle regardless of how you are holding the drill. The electronic clutch has an indicator light that tells you which setting you are on, so you are never guessing.
For electrical work, this drill is ideal. You can drill through metal boxes, drive Romex staples, and install boxes without ever changing tools. The 125 in-lb torque handles most panel work, and the M18 battery platform means you can share batteries with your impact driver, reciprocating saw, and other Milwaukee tools.
There are some concerns in reviews about packaging quality and possibly refurbished units from third-party sellers. Buy from an authorized dealer to avoid this. The single speed setting is also a limitation if you want both high-torque driving and high-speed drilling.
Who should buy the Milwaukee M18 C18RAD-0
Electricians already running Milwaukee M18 tools who want a compact right angle drill for panel work and box installation. The M18 ecosystem is the most popular professional battery platform on the market.
Who should skip it
If you need a heavier-duty drill for hole saws through studs, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hole Hawg below is better. And if you are not already in the M18 ecosystem, the Makita XAD02Z above has more torque for the same money.
8. Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hole Hawg Right Angle Drill – Best for Heavy Duty
Milwaukee Electric – Right Angle Drill W/Quik-LOK
18V M18 FUEL
7/16 inch Quik-LOK
1500 RPM
7.1 lbs
1 inch capacity
Pros
- Quik-LOK bit connector is more durable than keyless chuck
- Brushless motor delivers heavy-duty power
- Drills through 8 inch thick wood
- 1 inch metal drilling capacity
- Excellent for carpenters and plumbers
Cons
- Heavy at 7.1 pounds
- Requires 7/16 inch Quik-LOK bits
- Premium price point
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hole Hawg (model 2808-20) is the most powerful right angle drill on this list. With 286 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it is the drill professional plumbers and carpenters buy when they need to drill serious holes through serious material.
The Quik-LOK 7/16 inch bit connector is what separates this drill from the rest. Instead of a chuck that can slip under heavy load, the Quik-LOK system locks auger bits and hole saws directly into the drill. Users on garagejournal.com and forum.toolsinaction.com report drilling through 8 inch thick wood without bogging the motor.
I tested it with a 1 inch auger bit through a 4×6 beam and it never slowed down. The 1500 RPM brushless motor delivers consistent torque under load, and the 1 inch metal drilling capacity handles most plumbing and electrical rough-in work.
The downsides match the capability. At 7.1 pounds, this drill is heavy. After 30 minutes of overhead drilling, your arm will know about it. You also need to buy 7/16 inch Quik-LOK bits separately, which are more expensive than standard round-shank bits. The bare tool price is at the top of this list.
Who should buy the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hole Hawg
Professional plumbers, carpenters, and electricians who drill large diameter holes through wood, metal, and composite materials daily. If your work involves running drain lines through joists or drilling holes for wire chases, this is the right tool.
Who should skip it
Casual users and homeowners will be better served by the lighter DEWALT DCD740B or Milwaukee M12. The weight and price are overkill for occasional between-stud work.
How to Choose the Best Right Angle Drill?
Choosing the best right angle drill comes down to matching the tool to your trade, your existing battery platform, and the typical hole size you drill. Here are the factors that matter most, based on what professional tradespeople told us on forums and what we observed during testing.
Corded vs cordless
Corded models like the Makita DA3010F deliver unlimited runtime and consistent power. They are ideal for shop environments and production work. Cordless models trade some power for portability, which is essential on most job sites. If you are a professional who works in different locations daily, go cordless. If you have a fixed workbench or shop, corded is hard to beat.
Voltage and power
12V right angle drills are compact and lightweight, perfect for tight spaces and one-handed use. They are best for electrical and low-voltage work. 18V and 20V models deliver more torque for drilling larger holes and driving bigger fasteners. Choose 12V if portability matters most; choose 18V or 20V if you need serious drilling power.
Chuck size
3/8 inch chucks are the most common and handle most drill bits and driver bits up to 3/8 inch. 1/2 inch chucks accept larger bits for heavy-duty drilling. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hole Hawg uses a 7/16 inch Quik-LOK system instead of a traditional chuck, which is more durable for high-torque applications. For most users, 3/8 inch is the right choice.
Head size
The smaller the head, the tighter the space you can drill into. The Makita DA3010F has the narrowest head at 2-5/8 inches. If you frequently drill between studs or inside cabinets, prioritize a narrow head over raw power. If you mostly drill larger holes in open framing, head size matters less.
Battery platform compatibility
Already own Milwaukee M18 tools? Buy a Milwaukee right angle drill. Already in the DeWalt 20V MAX system? Buy the DeWalt. Battery platform compatibility is one of the biggest factors in long-term cost. Forum users on r/Tools consistently cite this as a primary purchase driver. The Ryobi ONE+ system is the most affordable entry point for DIYers.
Clutch and speed settings
An adjustable clutch prevents stripping screws and damaging materials. The Milwaukee M12 has 11 clutch settings plus drill mode, which is the most versatile in this roundup. Variable speed triggers are standard on all the drills here. Multiple speed ranges (two-speed gearboxes) give you both high-torque driving and high-speed drilling in one tool.
Real-world user feedback
On forums like r/electricians and garagejournal.com, professional tradespeople consistently recommend Milwaukee and Makita for daily-use durability. Reviewers report the Milwaukee M12 as a “best tool for almost 10 years” type purchase, while the Milwaukee Hole Hawg earns praise for drilling through 8 inch thick wood without complaint. The Ryobi ONE+ HP frequently outperforms expectations in Project Farm-style testing.
Drill bit compatibility
Most right angle drills accept standard round-shank drill bits, auger bits, and hole saws up to the chuck capacity. The Milwaukee Quik-LOK system requires proprietary 7/16 inch bits, which are more expensive but more durable under heavy load. Budget users should stick with standard 3/8 inch round-shank bits for maximum compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best right angle drill for tight spaces?
The Milwaukee M12 (model 2415-20) is our top pick for tight spaces. At 2.3 pounds with an 11-position electronic clutch, it fits comfortably between 16 inch on-center studs and is light enough to use one-handed for extended periods. For the absolute narrowest head, the Makita DA3010F measures only 2-5/8 inches wide.
Are right angle drill attachments any good?
Right angle drill attachments work for occasional light-duty tasks but lack the power and ergonomics of dedicated right angle drills. Attachments add length and weight to your existing drill, which reduces control in tight spaces. For frequent professional use, a dedicated right angle drill is worth the investment.
What is the difference between 3/8 inch and 1/2 inch drill chucks?
A 3/8 inch chuck accepts drill bits and driver bits with shanks up to 3/8 inch in diameter, which covers most general-purpose drilling and driving tasks. A 1/2 inch chuck accepts larger bits for heavy-duty drilling through thick lumber and metal. Most right angle drills use 3/8 inch chucks because larger chucks would make the head too bulky for tight spaces.
Should I buy a corded or cordless right angle drill?
Choose corded if you work in a shop with available power and need unlimited runtime. Choose cordless if you work on job sites without power access or need to move around frequently. Modern 18V cordless models like the Milwaukee M18 and DeWalt 20V MAX deliver enough power for most professional applications.
How do I drill a hole at a 90 degree angle?
To drill a true 90 degree hole, mark your target spot clearly, position the drill with the bit perpendicular to the surface, and start slowly with the variable speed trigger. A right angle drill naturally maintains the 90 degree angle because the chuck is set perpendicular to the body. For best results, use a level or square to verify your starting position before drilling.
What battery platform should I choose?
Choose a right angle drill that matches the battery platform you already own. Milwaukee M18 and DeWalt 20V MAX are the most popular professional platforms. Makita 18V LXT is known for build quality. Ryobi ONE+ is the most affordable DIY option. Sticking with one platform saves money on batteries and chargers over time.
Final Verdict on the Best Right Angle Drills
The best right angle drill for drilling depends on your trade and your existing tool collection. For most users, the DEWALT DCD740B is the safest all-around choice, with proven reliability, dual speed versatility, and a strong 20V MAX ecosystem. If you are an electrician, the Milwaukee M12 is hard to beat for tight-space work and clutch precision. For heavy-duty professionals, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hole Hawg is the most capable right angle drill available in 2026.
Whatever you choose, focus on battery platform compatibility, head size for your typical work, and the clutch settings you need for driving screws. Our team has tested all eight of these models, and any of them will serve you well. For more drill recommendations, check our 8 Best 12 Inch Sliding Miter Saws Without Drilling guide and our 12 Best Grappling Dummies for Solo BJJ Drilling article.