A cordless drill is usually starting point when you begin assembling your cordless tool. For the homeowner, it’s the first tool bought. For the contractor who needs portable power more then sheer strength, it’s the go-to every day.
There are plenty of options and many big name, each one promising the best battery performance, ergonomics or torque. Dig deeper through all the marketing noise and what you need to know is what this tool feels like to use by someone using it for work. This crowded space has yet another contender: The Porter Cable 20V Lithium Drill is an affordable entry that aims to serve consumer who doesn’t want (or need) to fully invest in a high-end system but wants something solidly built.
If you’re an infrequent user or DIY guy/gal looking to save some bucks, can it do what’s needed while staying durable? Let’s check out where it excels; and perhaps disappoints. For heavy duty applications.
Reviewing The Porter Cable 20V Lithium Drill
First Impressions and Ergonomics
A big part of first impressions are about feel. With the Porter Cable drill I was impressed with its compact head design which allows for comfortable use in tight quarters and smaller framed user. When screwing down drywall, building furniture, etc., there’s no need to grip a bulky, complicated version from DeWalt or Milwaukee as this feels comfortable in your hand longer.
Texture on the grip gives you just enough to keep your hand in place without slipping (even covered in dust), making it more comfortablly throughout a long weekend of work.
Battery Technology and Power Indicators
The strength of any cordless tool come down to its battery technology. In this case, Porter Cable employs 20V MAX Lithium Ion batteries, which also come from the same platform as Ryobi’s products.
That’s always nice if you’re already invested in one brand. It means you can use your batteries interchangeably and not have to purchase multiple extra battery and chargers. When running low on juice, you’ll get a visual indicator, as the battery indicator light will illuminate to display how much power remains.
It is a simple but useful touch that saves you some embarrassment halfway through a job when the battery suddenly runs out.
Torque Performance and Speed Control
For everyday uses, torque isn’t as important as you’d think. For example, I have drilled through some soft brick and driven standard wood screw into framing lumber with no problem.
When the tool hits resistance, it doesn’t struggle like some of those old brushed motor do. The variable speed trigger allows for precise control when starting a screw to prevent stripping the head. If you need to drill big holes in steel or perform really heavy duty masonry applications, then it’s not the drill for you.
But knowing that lets you keep from trying to force it into something it was never meant for. Versatile with various materials… There are speed settings on it which helps with many tasks, though it isn’t designed for heavy duty masonry or large diameter hole in steel.
This allows you to go low if you’re driving lots of torque into something or higher if you’re drilling quickly. And the electronic clutch setting can be set to how hard your working material is. So you don’t overdrive screws and wreck your work surface.
This is very nice.
Durability and Warranty Coverage
One common worry with affordable tool is durability. In the past few years, Porter Cable has been building them better so they’re less plastic-y and prone to breakage.
Their gear housing are beefed up to withstand drops from normal work height. It’s not going to last if you drop it from a ladder on to the concrete. But it’s durable enough for everyday use on the job site.
And if something goes wrong beyond your control, their warranty coverage give you some peace of mind. That’s a fair compromise between price and how long it lasts.
Ecosystem and Tool Selection
Ecosystem lock-in When you buy into Porter Cable, you’re buying into their battery platform.
You’ll be limited down the road to whatever tools works on that 20V MAX system. That’s not a big deal when you just need one drill, but if you’re looking to build out a full garage set-up over time then consider how many lights, sanders, and saws there is available at that voltage. There isn’t quite as much selection as some of the bigger player, but it’s decent.
Value for DIY and Homeowners
Value is subjective but generally aligns with performance relative to cost. For someone new to tools who wants to dip their toe into the pond without paying an arm and leg, the Porter Cable 20V drill is a nice starting point. It has enough oomph to get job done while being user friendly.
It has no frills that you will never use or pay more for because of the name. Whether you are doing some home repair work, putting up shelves, or building a deck this drill does the trick quickly and cleanly. And since they share batteries you can get your money’s worth too by splitting them across different tool.
Use the right tool for the job. If you want something that can do some heavy duty construction stuff, then it’s not for you. This drill is designed to be a solid performer at a fair price.
This is a great all-around, light drill for professionals and homeowners to use for most jobs. A reasonable balance of performance and price. This drill does just enough things well to earn a spot in your garage.
Keep your projects moving without spending too much money. That’s what the Porter Cable 20V Lithium Drill is for.