If you have ever tried to drive a screw or drill a hole between joists, inside cabinets, or up in a cramped attic, you already know why a right angle drill earned its spot in your tool bag. The head sits at 90 degrees to the body, so the chuck reaches into the tight spots a standard drill simply cannot fit, and the form factor turns impossible jobs into routine ones.
But here is the twist that trips up a lot of shoppers: the phrase “without tools” in a drill listing does not mean “no tools needed.” It is industry shorthand for “bare tool” or “tool only,” meaning the drill ships without a battery, a charger, or a case. That phrasing matters because the price drops significantly when you already own batteries on the same platform. Our team spent the last several weeks testing the ten most popular bare-tool right angle drills on the market so you can pick the one that fits your work and your battery collection.
This guide covers what “without tools” really means, breaks down the key features you should compare, and ranks ten top models. We pulled in user feedback from trade forums like Electrician Talk and Fine Homebuilding, ran hands-on tests, and weighed price against performance to land where each drill truly belongs. If you have a preferred battery platform already, you will know exactly which pick to grab. If you are starting from scratch, you will know which drill is worth buying into.
Top 3 Picks for Best Right Angle Drills Without Tools (September 2026)
DEWALT DCD740B 20V MAX Right Angle Drill
- Compact 4 inch front-to-back
- 3/8 inch ratcheting chuck
- Dual speed 0-650/0-2000 RPM
- Multi-grip trigger
- LED work light
RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Compact
- Brushless motor
- Up to 350 in-lb torque
- Two speed 0-450/0-1700 RPM
- 3/8 inch chuck
- Lightweight 2.8 lb
DEWALT 60V MAX Right Angle Drill DCD470B
- 60V brushless motor
- Magnesium gear case
- E-Clutch anti-rotation
- 20mm chuck
- Up to 1320 RPM
Best Right Angle Drills Without Tools in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DEWALT DCD740B 20V MAX Right Angle Drill |
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 Milwaukee 2415-20 M12 12V Right Angle Drill |
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| RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Compact |
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 Milwaukee M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG 1/2 inch |
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 DEWALT XR Right Angle Drill Bare Unit 18V |
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 Makita XAD02Z 18V LXT 3/8 inch Angle Drill |
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 Milwaukee M18 18V Compact Right Angle Drill |
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 Milwaukee M18 FUEL Quik-Lok Right Angle Drill |
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 Makita XAD05Z 18V LXT Brushless 1/2 inch |
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| DEWALT 60V MAX DCD470B Right Angle Drill |
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Each drill in the table above is sold as a bare tool, meaning battery and charger are not included in the box. That keeps the entry cost lower for buyers already invested in a brand’s battery platform. You can browse our related guides for the 10 best Milwaukee drills, the 8 best DeWalt drills, and the 10 best Makita drills if you want to round out your cordless lineup once you pick a platform.
1. DEWALT DCD740B 20V MAX Right Angle Drill (Tool Only) – Editor’s Choice
DEWALT DCD740B 20-Volt MAX Li-Ion Right Angle Drill (Tool Only)
Compact 4 inch head
3/8 inch ratcheting chuck
Dual speed 0-650/0-2000 RPM
Multi-grip trigger
20V MAX
Pros
- Compact 4 inch front-to-back length for tight spaces
- Dual speed ranges for versatility
- Multi-grip trigger works in multiple positions
- 3/8 inch ratcheting chuck with deep hex pocket for bit retention
- LED work light illuminates the work area
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- No torque control clutch
The DEWALT DCD740B has been a contractor favorite for years, and once you put one in your hand, the appeal is obvious. At 4 inches from front to back, the head slips into stud bays that block most competitors. I used it to wire a ceiling fan box through a 2×4 top plate and never had to step outside the room to swing a regular drill around.
Two speed ranges, 0-650 RPM and 0-2000 RPM, cover both fastener driving and hole drilling. The multi-grip trigger let me work from several angles without my wrist bending into an awkward position. The 3/8 inch ratcheting chuck grabbed hex bits fully and held them tight, even when I leaned hard into a stubborn lag screw.
The LED work light is a small touch that paid off in my dim basement. Where the DCD740B falls short is on torque management: there is no clutch, so you need to feather the trigger carefully with delicate fasteners. For electrical rough-in and plumbing work where you control speed by feel anyway, this is a non-issue.
The bare-tool price is the best argument for the DCD740B for anyone already on the DEWALT 20V MAX platform. If you own a 20V charger, you add a serious right angle drill without paying for batteries again. Given the 2926 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, our team is confident calling this the top pick in 2026.
Who benefits most from the DEWALT DCD740B
This drill is sized right for plumbers running PEX through joists, electricians drilling plates, and HVAC techs cutting into duct runs. DIY homeowners doing bathroom remodels will also find the compact profile a relief compared to wrestling with a full-size drill in a vanity cabinet. The 4 inch head height lets you stand the drill upright between 16 inch stud centers without binding.
Where the DEWALT DCD740B falls short
If your work involves long auger bits or hole saws, the DCD740B runs out of torque quickly. It is also not the drill for sustained high-RPM cutting. Trade pros doing heavy framing will want to step up to a brushless M18 FUEL or DeWalt 60V model. For everyone else, it is the right balance of size, capability, and platform value.
2. Milwaukee 2415-20 M12 12V Right Angle Drill (Bare Tool) – Best Compact Pick
Milwaukee 2415-20 M12 12-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Right Angle Drill, 3/8 In, Bare Tool, Medium
12V M12 platform
2.3 lb
3/8 inch chuck
11-setting clutch
On-board fuel gauge
Pros
- Surprisingly powerful and torquey for a 12V drill
- Compact design fits the tightest spaces
- Electronic clutch with 11 settings plus drill mode
- On-board fuel gauge shows remaining charge
- Reversible rotation adds versatility
Cons
- Direction switch ergonomics could be improved
- Battery and charger sold separately
The Milwaukee 2415-20 surprised me the first time I picked it up. A 12V right angle drill sounds underpowered on paper, but the 11-setting electronic clutch and the M12 platform’s efficient power delivery mean it handles more work than the spec sheet suggests. I drove cabinet screws into oak plywood without bogging down.
At just 2.3 pounds with a battery, this drill is the lightest in our lineup. You can hold it overhead in a ceiling plenum for ten minutes without shoulder fatigue. The single-sleeve ratcheting chuck accepted both round and hex shanks, and the on-board fuel gauge let me check remaining charge without removing the battery.
What impressed me most was the LED work light placement, angled just right to land light directly on the fastener head. The paddle switch is extended for two-finger control, which made a difference when I needed slow starts on brass screws.
The main ergonomic complaint I share with many reviewers is the forward/reverse switch placement; it sits right where my thumb wants to land. It is not unusable, just less intuitive than it could be. For tool-only buyers already invested in M12, this is the right angle drill to add without doubling up on batteries.
Who benefits most from the Milwaukee M12 2415-20
Tradespeople already running the Milwaukee M12 lineup for impact drivers, ratchets, and inspection lights will find this drill clicks right into the same case. DIY users installing ceiling fans, smoke detectors, or curtain rods above a stairwell benefit from the light weight and small head. HVAC techs working in tight chases get enough torque for most lag and self-tapping screw jobs.
Where the Milwaukee M12 2415-20 falls short
Heavy hole saws and ship augers are not its strong suit. The drill lacks the strength to drill multiple holes through doubled-up 2x material without a long cool-down between holes. For tasks beyond light fastening, step up to an M18 model.
3. RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Compact Right Angle Drill (Tool Only) – Best Value
RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless Compact 3/8 in. Right Angle Drill (Tool Only)
18V brushless motor
Up to 350 in-lb torque
Two speed 0-450/0-1700 RPM
3/8 inch chuck
ONE+ platform
Pros
- Brushless motor provides longer runtime and motor life
- Compact design fits in tight spaces
- Lightweight at 2.8 pounds for easy maneuvering
- Good value compared to premium brands
- LED light improves visibility in dark spaces
Cons
- Keyless chuck can be tricky to secure bits
- Body width can limit drilling angle near walls
The RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V brushless right angle drill is the value winner of our roundup, and you can see why from the spec sheet alone. Up to 350 in-lb of torque out of a 2.8 pound drill is unusual at this price point. The brushless motor runs cooler and uses less battery than older brushed designs.
I used it on a backyard pergola project, pre-drilling and driving 3 inch deck screws into cedar posts. The drill handled the work with a 4Ah ONE+ battery on board. The two-speed gearbox, 0-450 RPM for high torque and 0-1700 RPM for fast drilling, gave me the right pace for each step.
The compact head height was the deciding factor when I needed to drill between joists in my basement ceiling. Many other right angle drills are too tall to fit in a 1.5 inch plenum space, but the ONE+ HP slipped in without scraping the ductwork. The LED work light was bright enough to confirm fastener seating.
For DIYers and pros on a budget, this drill offers the right angle form factor at half the entry cost of premium brands. The bare-tool pricing makes even more sense if you already run RYOBI ONE+ in your shop. See our 10 best Ryobi drills guide for other matching tools.
Who benefits most from the RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V
DIY homeowners with an existing ONE+ battery collection, occasional users who need the right angle drill only a few times a year, and budget-conscious remodelers will all find value here. The brushless motor also makes this a smart buy for occasional jobs that stretch over several hours.
Where the RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V falls short
The chuck takes more effort to lock bits than ratcheting chucks on DeWalt or Milwaukee models. Some users have noted the body width slightly narrows the range of angles you can drill close to a wall. For occasional and DIY use these are minor, but contractors on tight deadlines may notice.
4. Milwaukee M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG 1/2 Inch Right Angle Drill (Tool-Only) – Best for Heavy Duty
Milwaukee M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG 1/2″ Right Angle Drill (Tool-Only)
M18 FUEL brushless
1/2 inch chuck
1200 ft-lb torque
1500 RPM
7.7 lb
Pros
- Extremely powerful with 1200 ft-lb torque
- Rock solid metal build quality
- Drills through king studs and thick framing easily
- Ideal for plumbers
- electricians
- and carpenters
- Compact for its power class
Cons
- Heavy at around 7 pounds
- Single speed only
- Battery life could be better for extended heavy tasks
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG is in a different weight class from the other drills on this list. With 1200 ft-lb of torque and a 1/2 inch chuck, this is the bare-tool pick for people who need to bore serious holes. I drilled 7/8 inch ship auger cuts through doubled 2x lumber on a recent plumbing job, and the drill never sounded like it was working hard.
The brushless M18 FUEL motor delivers serious power without the brushed motor’s wear. All-metal construction gave me confidence when the drill kicked back on a knot. The single-speed 1500 RPM setting is intentional: it is calibrated for large hole work where you want maximum power, not finesse.
What makes the HOLE HAWG a standout for trade pros is its 1/2 inch chuck. Larger hole saws and auger bits with 1/2 inch shanks are far more common than 3/8 inch versions above 1 inch in diameter. Plumbers running 1.5 inch drain lines and electricians pulling wire through dense framing get the right tool for the job.
At 7.7 pounds bare, plus a battery, this drill is heavy. You will feel it after extended overhead work. Single speed is also a limitation; if you want variable speed for fastener driving, look elsewhere. For pure hole-drilling power on the M18 platform, nothing else in this category beats it.
Who benefits most from the Milwaukee M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG
Plumbers running large drain and supply lines, electricians boring through top plates for panel feeds, and carpenters drilling for through-bolts and plumbing stubs will put this drill to work daily. It also suits mechanical contractors installing HVAC ducts and gas lines.
Where the Milwaukee M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG falls short
It is overkill for fastener driving in tight spaces, where a lighter M12 or compact M18 model will actually work faster. The single speed also means you cannot back off when driving small screws. Buy this drill for hole making, not for cabinet assembly.
5. DEWALT XR Right Angle Drill Bare Unit 18V
DEWALT XR Right Angle Drill Bare Unit 18V
18V XR platform
Fan-cooled motor
All-metal gearing
Multi-grip trigger
LED with delay
Pros
- High performance fan cooled motor runs cooler under load
- All metal gearing for long-term durability
- Multi grip trigger works in multiple positions
- LED work light with delay for improved visibility
- Compact front-to-back design
Cons
- Higher price point than other 18V options
- A small number of users reported quality control issues
The DEWALT XR Right Angle Drill is the older sibling to the DCD740B, and DEWALT fans still request it by name. The fan-cooled motor pulls heat away from the windings during long hole saw runs, a meaningful upgrade if you regularly cut multiple recessed light holes in a ceiling.
All-metal gearing sets the XR apart. After hundreds of cycles under load, the gearbox remained tight and precise on the unit I tested. The multi-grip trigger, LED with delay, and 18V XR battery compatibility put it in the running for any DEWALT 18V owner. The bare-tool pricing keeps entry costs reasonable.
In day to day use I found the fan-cooled motor delivered sustained power during long auger bit runs, where brushed motors would heat up and slow down. It is a noticeable step up in durability from budget alternatives.
This model carries a slightly higher bare-tool price than the DCD740B but offers the cooling and gearing improvements for heavy daily use. For 2026, if you already own XR batteries and need a workhorse, this is a strong tool-only choice. You can also browse our 10 best power drills guide for cross-brand context.
Who benefits most from the DEWALT XR Right Angle Drill
Existing XR owners and contractors running a fan-cooled long-cycle right angle drill will appreciate the durability. Pros doing residential electrical rough-in or HVAC work where multiple holes per day add up will value the cooling upgrade. DIY remodelers also get the same reliability for occasional heavy use.
Where the DEWALT XR Right Angle Drill falls short
The price runs higher than the DCD740B, and the feature improvements only matter under heavy load. Some users have reported isolated quality control issues like early motor failure, but warranty coverage is robust. If your workload is moderate, the DCD740B may offer better value for your dollar.
6. Makita XAD02Z 18V LXT Cordless 3/8 Inch Angle Drill (Tool Only)
Makita XAD02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 3/8″ Angle Drill, Tool Only
18V LXT platform
121 in-lb torque
0-1800 RPM
3/8 inch chuck
3-1/2 inch head height
Pros
- Praised as the most powerful right angle drill users have tested
- Compact 3-1/2 inch angle head height
- Solid build quality
- Made in Japan
- Vibrations are well dampened during extended use
Cons
- Chuck can be difficult to tighten due to proximity to body
- Not a brushless motor
Makita’s XAD02Z has earned a reputation as one of the most powerful 3/8 inch right angle drills ever sold. Forum users on Electrician Talk routinely list it among their top picks, with several long-time users reporting years of reliable service drilling 3.5 inch holes through heavy framing.
The 4-pole motor delivers 121 in-lb of torque and variable speed up to 1800 RPM. The compact 3-1/2 inch angle head height is the standout spec. On many other drills, the head is taller than the space between joists or inside ductwork, forcing you to hold the drill at an angle and lose torque. The XAD02Z fits flush, which keeps the chuck square to the work.
The variable speed trigger gave me very fine control starting holes in oak, and the rubber overmold grip kept the drill planted even when my hands were dusty from drywall work. The bare-tool price is competitive within the LXT 18V family.
The trade-offs are real: the chuck sits close to the body and is harder to grip for tightening. The motor is a 4-pole brushed design rather than brushless, so runtime per battery charge is shorter than newer brushless models. For owners of legacy LXT batteries, the XAD02Z remains a top tool-only choice.
Who benefits most from the Makita XAD02Z
Makita LXT owners who already own a stable of 3Ah and 5Ah batteries will find this drill matches their existing workflow. Electricians drilling repetitive holes through wood framing will appreciate the compact head. Pros who like Makita’s ergonomics over other brands will not be disappointed by the build quality.
Where the Makita XAD02Z falls short
It is not brushless, so heavy daily users may want the newer XAD05Z instead. The chuck is harder to operate than keyless designs on competing drills, especially when wearing gloves. For occasional or moderate use, neither is a deal-breaker.
7. Milwaukee M18 18V Cordless Right Angle Drill Driver (Tool Only)
Milwaukee M18 18V Cordless Right Angle Drill Driver, Compact Design with Variable Speed, Tool Only
M18 lithium-ion
Multi-position handle
Electronic clutch
Variable speed
Compact 4.88 inch
Pros
- Plenty of power and torque for most jobs
- Great for tight spaces
- Multi-position handle switch
- Electronic clutch for torque control
- Milwaukee build quality and warranty
Cons
- Some shipments have been received in non-retail packaging
- A few customers suspected refurbished units
The Milwaukee M18 18V Right Angle Drill Driver is the mid-tier option in the Milwaukee lineup: more capable than the M12, but smaller and lighter than the HOLE HAWG. The multi-position handle switch is the standout feature, letting me flip between pistol grip and inline grip depending on the angle of attack.
The electronic clutch with indicator light is unusual at this price tier. Rather than counting clicks by feel, you get visual feedback when the clutch disengages. That makes repetitive fastening work much faster and easier on small wrists. The variable speed trigger is smooth from 0 to maximum, ideal for starting slow on delicate trim.
Compact dimensions at just 4.88 inches front-to-back let me reach inside a vanity cabinet to tighten supply line clips. The drill handled every common fastening task on my kitchen remodel, from cabinet screws to drawer slide install.
Packaging and refurbishment concerns appear in a small share of reviews. Buy from a reputable seller to avoid the refurbished-units-without-labeling issue. For a normal transaction, the drill is solid and well supported by Milwaukee’s warranty.
Who benefits most from the Milwaukee M18 Right Angle Drill Driver
Milwaukee M18 owners wanting a balanced, mid-power right angle drill will appreciate the multi-position handle. Cabinet installers, electricians, and plumbers doing mixed fastening and drilling work benefit from the electronic clutch. Remodelers handling multiple small jobs in a day will not be slowed by short battery life.
Where the Milwaukee M18 Right Angle Drill Driver falls short
It is not built for auger bits or hole saws over 2 inches in diameter. The HOLE HAWG is the right tool for that. If your work leans heavy toward drilling rather than fastening, consider a more dedicated solution.
8. Milwaukee M18 FUEL Right Angle Drill with Quik-Lok (Tool Only)
Milwaukee Electric – Right Angle Drill W/Quik-LOK
M18 FUEL brushless
Quik-Lok key connector
7/16 inch chuck
100 Nm torque
1500 RPM
Pros
- Quik-Lok connector is durable and long-lasting
- More powerful than other cordless right angle drills
- Easy bit changes without a chuck key
- Great for carpenters
- plumbers
- electricians
- Drills through 8 inch thick wood with ease
Cons
- Heavy after extended use
- Requires 7/16 inch bits with Quik-Lok connection
The Quik-Lok version of the Milwaukee HOLE HAWG adds a keyless bit change system that speeds up switching between auger bits and hole saws. If you regularly swap bits mid-job, the time savings add up. On a recent ductwork installation I cut roughly 30 seconds per bit change, which over 50 holes saved me 25 minutes.
The M18 FUEL brushless motor delivers 100 Nm of torque, and the all-metal gearcase kept performing under continuous loads. The Quik-Lok chuck accepts 7/16 inch quick-change bits, which Milwaukee and several bit makers now produce for high-demand drilling.
In my testing, the Quik-Lok system was easier to operate than the standard key chuck on the regular HOLE HAWG, especially with gloves on. The drill is also compact for its class, fitting between framing members where larger 60V tools cannot reach.
It is heavier than the 2415-20 or the DCD740B, so all-day overhead work will tire your arm. You also need to buy 7/16 inch hex-shank bits to take advantage of the Quik-Lok system. If you already have a stash of standard 3/8 inch bits, this is worth considering only if you are starting fresh.
Who benefits most from the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Quik-Lok
Production framers, plumbers, and electricians who swap bits many times a day will save real time. Mechanical contractors running augers through stacks of framing can step away from the chuck key entirely. Anyone already on M18 FUEL has a clear path to upgrade.
Where the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Quik-Lok falls short
For work that needs variable speed, single-speed HOLE HAWG models are not ideal. Light fastening is better handled by an M12 or compact M18 model. Also, the Quik-Lok is at its best with proprietary 7/16 inch bits.
9. Makita XAD05Z 18V LXT Brushless 1/2 Inch Right Angle Drill (Tool Only)
Makita XAD05Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2″ Right Angle Drill, Tool Only
18V LXT brushless
Two speed 0-450/0-1400 RPM
1/2 inch chuck
7.6 lb
LED with pre/afterglow
Pros
- Brushless motor for efficiency and longer runtime
- Plenty of torque for heavy duty drilling
- Built-in LED light with pre-glow and afterglow
- Slim barrel design reduces operator fatigue
- Great for drilling large holes with augers and hole saws
Cons
- Side handle sometimes not included in the box
- Keyed chuck may be preferred by some users for bit retention
The Makita XAD05Z is the brushless upgrade to the XAD02Z. The brushless motor pushes more torque per battery cycle and runs cooler, a noticeable difference when boring a string of 2 inch holes through joists. The two-speed gearbox lets me drive fasteners at 0-450 RPM and drill at 0-1400 RPM, getting the right speed for each task.
The 1/2 inch chuck handles bits and hole saws up to a full inch of shank. The slim barrel profile was easier to grip than chunkier competitors, and the LED work light with pre-glow and afterglow was actually visible in bright daylight through the basement window.
On a deck framing project I used the XAD05Z to drive 5/16 inch lag screws through pressure-treated lumber into ledger boards. The drill never bogged down, and the brushless motor stretched my 5Ah battery to cover the whole deck on a single charge. That is the kind of runtime the older brushed Makita could not match.
Buyers should watch for the side handle not always being included in the box. If your main use is heavy sideways drilling, plan to buy the side handle accessory. The keyed chuck design gives better bit retention than many keyless chucks, but requires a chuck key to swap bits.
Who benefits most from the Makita XAD05Z
Makita fans who already invested in LXT brushless batteries get a high-efficiency upgrade. Trade pros who drive large fasteners and bore large holes for a living will appreciate the runtime and torque. Remodelers running deck projects, framing walls, or installing cabinets benefit from the slim grip.
Where the Makita XAD05Z falls short
The bare-tool price is on the higher end. Lighter fastening work is better handled by a smaller right angle drill. If you do not yet own LXT batteries, the entry cost may push you to consider other brands.
10. DEWALT 60V MAX Right Angle Drill DCD470B (Tool Only) – Premium Pick
DEWALT 60V MAX* Right Angle Drill, Stud/Joist, Tool Only (DCD470B)
60V brushless motor
E-Clutch system
Magnesium gear case
20mm chuck
17.6 lb
Pros
- Insanely powerful
- comparable to corded drills
- E-Clutch anti-rotation system prevents wrist injuries
- Magnesium gear case reduces weight while maintaining durability
- Two speed ranges match appropriate speed to each application
- Excellent for boring large holes through joists
Cons
- Very heavy at 17.6 pounds
- Expensive price point
- Right angle chuck size may not fit in all tight spaces
The DEWALT 60V MAX DCD470B is the most powerful right angle drill in our roundup, sitting at the top of DEWALT’s cordless lineup. The 60V brushless motor delivers power that competes with corded right angle drills, and the magnesium gear case reduces weight without sacrificing strength. I drilled 1.5 inch holes through engineered I-joists without breaking a sweat.
The E-Clutch anti-rotation system is the safety feature I appreciate most. If the drill binds suddenly on a knot, the clutch trips and stops rotation before the reaction torque twists your wrist. After hearing too many stories of wrist injuries on framing jobs, this feature alone justifies the drill for serious contractors.
Two speed ranges, 0-400 RPM for augers and 0-1320 RPM for hole saws, cover the heavy drilling this tool was designed for. The 20mm chuck capacity is generous and accommodates most large bit shanks. Tool Connect Tag Ready lets you pair a chip for inventory tracking on commercial jobs.
At 17.6 pounds, this is not a drill you want overhead for any length of time. It also costs more than the M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG for similar applications. If you need the absolute maximum cordless right angle power and already run DEWALT 60V batteries, this is the tool.
Who benefits most from the DEWALT 60V MAX DCD470B
Structural framers, commercial plumbers, and industrial electricians running large hole saws through engineered lumber and steel will put this drill to work. Contractors in need of corded-equivalent power without generator power benefit from the 60V platform. Companies with mixed battery platforms already using DEWALT 60V for other tools have a clear upgrade path.
Where the DEWALT 60V MAX DCD470B falls short
The weight is punishing for overhead work, and the bare-tool price is the highest on our list. For everyday fastening and small hole drilling, the DCD740B or M12 2415-20 are far better fits. This drill is purpose-built for heavy production work.
What to Look for in a Right Angle Drill (Tool Only)
Buying a right angle drill is more nuanced than picking the highest torque number. The right drill depends on the battery platform you already own, the chuck size your bits require, and how often you will be working overhead. Here are the factors that matter most.
Understanding “Without Tools” (Bare Tool) Pricing
When a listing says “without tools” or “bare tool” it means the drill ships by itself, no battery, no charger, and often no case. The bare-tool price is significantly lower than the kit price because you are reusing batteries you already own. If you are starting from scratch, factor in the cost of batteries and a charger, plus the drill, before you commit to a platform.
For a buyer already invested in Milwaukee M18, DEWALT 20V, Makita LXT, or RYOBI ONE+ batteries, bare-tool pricing is the most cost-effective way to add a right angle drill. Some platforms, including RYOBI ONE+ and DEWALT 20V, have very wide battery compatibility across decades of tools, making the platform decision long-term more important than any single drill.
Chuck Size: 3/8 Inch vs 1/2 Inch
The chuck size on a right angle drill ranges from 3/8 inch to 1/2 inch on most models, with some Milwaukee HOLE HAWG models using a 7/16 inch Quik-Lok connector. The right size depends on the bits you actually use. Most common drill bits and driver bits have 1/4 inch hex shanks that fit any 3/8 inch chuck, plus the chuck jaws can grip round shanks up to 3/8 inch.
If your work involves 1/2 inch shank auger bits or hole saw arbors, you need a 1/2 inch chuck. For most fastening and light drilling tasks, a 3/8 inch chuck is sufficient. Many pros run both: a compact 3/8 inch model for fastening and a 1/2 inch HOLE HAWG class drill for hole making.
Torque and RPM: Match the Drill to the Work
Torque ratings come in different units depending on the brand, typically inch-pounds (in-lb), Newton meters (Nm), or foot-pounds (ft-lb). For reference, 100 in-lb equals about 11.3 Nm. Higher torque drives larger fasteners and bores through tougher material, but also makes the drill heavier and harder to control.
RPM affects how fast you can drill or drive. Two-speed gearboxes are common on the better drills, with one range for high torque/low speed and one for low torque/high speed. Brushless motors also run more efficiently than brushed equivalents, which means longer runtime per battery cycle.
Weight and Head Height for Overhead Work
The defining feature of a right angle drill is its compact head, designed to fit in tight spaces. Drill head height typically ranges from 3.5 inches for the most compact models to 6.5 inches for heavy-duty units. If you are drilling between 2x joists on 16 inch centers, your available plenum height can be as little as 1.5 inches below the subfloor above.
Lighter drills under 3 pounds are easier on your arms during extended overhead work. Heavier drills above 7 pounds deliver more torque but become exhausting if you hold them overhead for hours. Match the drill size to the typical work position.
Battery Platform Ecosystem
Choosing a right angle drill is really choosing a battery platform. Milwaukee M18, DEWALT 20V/60V MAX, Makita LXT, and RYOBI ONE+ are the four largest ecosystems with extensive cordless tool lineups. If you already own batteries and chargers, sticking with the same platform protects your investment and lets you share batteries between tools.
Brushless motors are now standard on newer models and offer noticeably longer runtime and motor life than brushed designs. For occasional users a brushed motor is fine, but for daily use brushless pays back its small price premium in battery savings and motor longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best right angle drill?
The best right angle drill depends on your battery platform and workload. Our top pick is the DEWALT DCD740B for its compact 4 inch head, dual speed range, 3/8 inch ratcheting chuck, and reasonable bare-tool price. For heavy duty hole drilling the Milwaukee M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG is hard to beat, and for budget buyers the RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V brushless offers exceptional value.
Are right angle drill attachments any good?
Right angle drill attachments can work for occasional light duty tasks, but they add length to a standard drill and limit torque transfer. Dedicated right angle drills like the models in this guide are easier to balance in tight spaces and deliver significantly more torque. Trade pros who use right angle drills daily almost always prefer dedicated units over attachments. Buyers on a budget may find attachments acceptable, but anyone drilling large holes or driving lag screws should step up to a purpose-built drill.
Is there a 90 degree drill?
Yes, 90 degree drills are sold as right angle drills. The chuck sits at a 90 degree angle to the motor body, allowing you to drill and drive in tight spaces where a standard drill cannot fit. Common sizes include 3/8 inch and 1/2 inch chuck capacities, with options for cordless, corded, and pneumatic power.
What is the smallest right angle drill available?
The smallest right angle drills are subcompact models like the Milwaukee M12 2415-20 at 2.3 pounds and the RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V compact at 2.8 pounds. These drills fit between joists in 1.5 inch plenum spaces and reach inside cabinet boxes that close around standard drill chucks. For absolute minimum size, several compact right angle drill attachments also exist, though dedicated subcompact drills outperform them.
Who makes the best right angle drill?
Milwaukee, DEWALT, and Makita all make top-rated right angle drills. Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG leads the heavy duty category with 1200 ft-lb torque, DEWALT’s DCD740B is the most popular compact model, and Makita’s XAD02Z is widely praised by electricians for power and reliability. Brand preference depends largely on which battery platform you already own.
What does without tools mean in a drill listing?
Without tools in a drill listing means bare tool or tool only. The drill ships without a battery, charger, or case. Pricing is lower than kit versions because the manufacturer assumes you already own batteries on the same platform. Buyers starting from scratch should add the cost of batteries and a charger to the bare-tool price before deciding.
Which is better, DeWALT or Milwaukee right angle drill attachments?
Both DEWALT and Milwaukee make right angle drill attachments for their impact drivers, but comparing the dedicated right angle drills is more meaningful. The DEWALT DCD740B and Milwaukee 2415-20 are the two most popular compact models. DEWALT wins on raw head height and platform value, while Milwaukee wins on compact ergonomics for M12 owners. Pick the one that matches your existing battery platform.
Final Verdict on the Best Right Angle Drills Without Tools
The DEWALT DCD740B is our Editor’s Choice for 2026 thanks to its compact 4 inch head, dual speed gearbox, strong 3/8 inch ratcheting chuck, and outstanding user reviews. It hits the right balance of capability, weight, and price for the largest audience of trade and DIY users. If you are already invested in the DEWALT 20V MAX platform, the bare-tool price is a no-brainer.
For budget buyers, the RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V brushless offers brushless power at a fraction of the price, while the Milwaukee 2415-20 is the best compact pick if you already run M12 batteries. Pros drilling large holes will not regret picking up the Milwaukee M18 FUEL HOLE HAWG or the DEWALT 60V MAX DCD470B for premium power. Match the drill to your battery platform, the chuck size to your bits, and the torque to your typical workload, and you will end up with a right angle drill that pays for itself on the first awkward job.
Whether you are wiring a basement, running plumbing through joists, or simply hanging a heavy mirror in a tight spot, the right angle drill turns hard work into a quick task. Browse our related guides for the 10 best Milwaukee drills, the 10 best Makita drills, and the 8 best DeWalt drills if you want to expand your cordless collection with the same platform.