When it comes to working on different DIY projects and home repairs, cordless drills are without doubt one of the most versatile tools that will allow you to take on a wide range of tasks. From basic jobs, such as assembling furniture to hanging shelves, and more complex projects like making a fence, or a deck, cordless drills have become indispensable for both casual DIYers and professional tradespeople alike.
If you’re among the many UK residents considering buying a cordless drill, this comprehensive guide will serve as your one-stop shop for finding the perfect cordless drill. We’ll explore the top retailers in the UK.
Expert Verdict: “After 50 years of buying gear, I’ve learned that the cheapest price isn’t always the best deal. Sometimes you need a drill right now because your shelf is half-hanging off the wall; other times, you want the lowest price for a big kit. Here is the ‘insider’ view of the UK’s top shops.”
1. The “Need it Now” Kings: Screwfix & Toolstation
These are my first ports of call for daily essentials.
- The Experience: You walk in, type a code into a tablet, and a minute later, someone hands you a box.
- Pros: Click & Collect: Usually ready in as little as 5–15 minutes.
- Trade Prices: Often have the best “Bundle Deals” for brands like DeWalt and Makita.
- Cons: You can’t touch the tools before you buy them. You’re buying from a catalogue.
Enda’s Veteran Tip: Screwfix and Toolstation often sit right next to each other on the same industrial estate. Always check both on your phone before you get out of the car, as one will often have a ‘Flash Sale’ that beats the other by £20.
2. The “Touch & Feel” Choice: B&Q & Wickes
If you want to feel the weight of the drill in your hand before paying, head here.
- The Experience: Traditional aisles where you can pick up the display models.
- Pros: Exclusive Brands: B&Q is the only place to get Erbauer or Mac Allister (great budget brands).
- One-Stop Shop: You can grab your drill, your wall plugs, and your timber all in one go.
- Cons: Usually more expensive than the “Trade” shops for the big name brands like DeWalt.
3. The “Deep Stock” Specialists: ITS, Powertoolmate & Power Tool World
If you are looking for a very specific model (like a ‘Bare Unit’ without batteries), these online specialists are unbeatable.
- The Experience: Massive websites with every possible variation of a tool.
- Pros: Better Prices for Professionals & Trades: They often beat Amazon and Screwfix on high-end Makita or Milwaukee kits.
- Expert Support: If you call them, you’re usually talking to someone who actually knows about drills.
- Cons: You have to wait for delivery (though most offer next-day).
4. The Giant: Amazon UK
- Pros: Unbeatable for budget brands like Terratek or Mylek. If you’re a Prime member, the “Next Day” delivery is incredibly reliable.
- Cons: Beware of “Third-Party Sellers.” Always try to buy items that say “Dispatched from Amazon” to ensure you’re getting a genuine UK model with a valid warranty.
Summary: Where should you go?
If You Want | Go To |
|---|---|
The absolute lowest price | Amazon or Powertoolmate |
To pick it up in 15 minutes | Screwfix or Toolstation |
A budget drill under £50 | Amazon or Lidl/Aldi (Parkside/Workzone) |
To feel the weight first | B&Q |
Enda’s Final Shopping Secret:“The best time to buy in the UK is November (Black Friday) or January (New Year Sales). However, if you’re buying a DeWalt or Makita kit, look for ‘Redemption Deals.’ Sometimes the manufacturer will send you a FREE battery via mail if you buy a certain kit from an authorised dealer like ITS or Screwfix. Always check the brand’s website first!”
The Northern Ireland Specialists: Local Knowledge
While the big UK chains are great, in Northern Ireland Toolstation doesn’t exist. We have some fantastic home-grown retailers that often have better stock and more “pro” advice.
- Ray Grahams (Newtownards): Ask anyone in County Down where to go for a serious DeWalt or Milwaukee kit, and they’ll say Ray Grahams. They are one of the only ‘DeWalt Pro Partners’ in NI.
- Haldane Fisher & JP Corry: These are the backbone of NI construction. They are great if you want to pick up your drill and your building materials (like timber or insulation) in one go.
- Ace Fixings (Ballymena & Belfast): If you’re near Sydenham Road or the Woodside Industrial Estate, these guys are brilliant for specialist fixings and professional power tools.
- McIntyre’s (Kilrea, Dungannon & Belfast): A family-owned business that has been around since 1958. They know their stuff and carry the high-end brands that the supermarkets don’t touch.
Enda’s NI Tip:“If you’re in a hurry and you’re in Northern Ireland, Screwfix is still your best bet for a quick ‘Click & Collect’, as they have over 20 stores across the province from Derry to Newry. But if you want to talk to someone who knows the difference between a batten and a joist, head to a local independent like Ray Grahams or Haldane’s.”
If You Want | Go To |
|---|---|
Quickest Click & Collect in NI | Screwfix (Belfast, Lisburn, Derry, etc.) |
Professional DeWalt/Makita Expert | Ray Grahams or Ace Fixings |
A budget drill under £50 | Amazon or Lidl/Aldi (Parkside/Workzone) |
Timber + Tools in one go | Haldane Fisher or JP Corry |
Figuring Out Cordless Drill Prices and Deals
With cordless drills ranging in price from budget-friendly options to high-end professional models, finding the best deal is essential. Here are some tips:
- Use Price Comparison Websites: Online tools like Google Shopping and PriceSpy can help you compare prices across various retailers.
- Subscribe to Retailer Newsletters: Sign up for email alerts from your preferred retailers to stay informed about upcoming sales and promotions. Most of the main retailers and manufacturers will always have special offers and discounted products available periodically.
- Explore Clearance Sales: Keep an eye out for clearance sales and end-of-season discounts, where you might find exceptional deals on cordless drills.
Expert Reviews and Recommendations
Navigating the vast array of cordless drill models can be overwhelming. Expert reviews provide valuable insights to help you make informed decisions.
- Consult Reputable Review Websites: Websites like this one offer in-depth reviews of various cordless drill models, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. There are other review websites available.
- Seek Recommendations from DIY Communities: Check online forums and DIY communities to gather recommendations from experienced users based on their specific needs and preferences. You just need to be careful as all advice there is not from experts.
Additional Resources for Cordless Drill Buying
To further enhance your cordless drill knowledge, explore these additional resources:
- Manufacturer Websites: Visit the websites of leading cordless drill brands like Makita, DeWalt, and Bosch for detailed product information, specifications, and user guides.
- YouTube Tutorials: Watch instructional videos on YouTube to gain insights into cordless drill usage techniques, maintenance tips, and troubleshooting common issues.
- Online Forums: Engage in online forums and DIY communities to exchange knowledge, seek advice