Corded drills are mains-powered drills for making holes in wood, metal and masonry, from light household models to heavier trade tools. Our range of over 30 models includes Bosch, Makita, Metabo and Black+Decker, so it suits homeowners putting up shelves as well as tradespeople who drill every day.
How to choose a corded drill
Power and workload. Motor power is quoted in watts, and a higher figure generally means the drill copes better with large holes and long sessions. For occasional jobs around the house, a lighter model is enough. Daily work in brick, concrete or thick timber calls for a stronger motor and sturdier build.
Hammer function. A drill with a percussion (hammer) setting is needed for brick, block and concrete, while a plain drill is fine for wood and metal. Many corded models let you switch the hammer action on and off, which makes one tool suitable for mixed jobs.
Chuck type and size. Keyless chucks let you change bits by hand, whereas keyed chucks grip a little tighter under heavy load. Check the maximum chuck capacity, because it limits the shank size of the bits you can use. Heavy-duty hammer drills often use an SDS system instead of a standard chuck.
Speed control and handling. Variable speed and a reverse switch matter for starting holes cleanly and for driving screws. Weight and handle design count too, since a heavy drill gets tiring when you work overhead. Colour is mostly a brand signal: our range includes green, black and blue tools, and with Bosch the colour usually shows whether a tool is aimed at DIY (green) or professional use (blue).
Corded drill brands we carry
- Bosch: the largest group in our range, with green tools for home DIY and blue Bosch Professional tools for trade use.
- Makita: a Japanese maker known for its teal professional tools, which are widely used on building sites.
- Metabo: a German manufacturer with a long history in professional power tools, including drills and angle grinders.
- Black+Decker and Stanley: both are household names for affordable DIY tools aimed at occasional home use.
- DeWalt: known for its yellow tools and a strong focus on tough, jobsite-ready equipment.
- Ryobi and Einhell: mainstream DIY brands with a focus on tools for home and garden.
- Proxxon: specialises in small precision tools for model making, workshops and fine work.
Also in our range: Energizer and Blaupunkt.
Corded drills: frequently asked questions
Is a corded drill better than a cordless one?
A corded drill is better when you need steady power for long jobs, because it does not run out of charge and does not lose strength as a battery drains. A cordless drill is easier to move around and use where there is no socket. Many people keep a corded model for heavy drilling in masonry and a cordless one for quick tasks.
Do I need a hammer drill to drill into brick or concrete?
Yes, a drill with a hammer function is strongly recommended for brick, block and concrete. The hammer action breaks up the material as the bit turns, which makes the work faster and easier on the tool. A standard drill without it can manage soft brick slowly but struggles in concrete.
How many watts does a corded drill need?
For household jobs such as hanging shelves or drilling wood, a drill in the lower power range is usually enough. Heavy use in masonry or large-diameter holes needs a stronger motor. Watts are only a guide, so also check the chuck size, the hammer function and the build quality.
What is the difference between a keyed and a keyless chuck?
A keyed chuck is tightened with a small key, while a keyless chuck is tightened by hand. Keyless chucks are quicker when you swap bits often. Keyed chucks usually hold the bit more firmly under heavy load, so some trade users prefer them.
