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Before testing the tools in this lineup, we researched more than 20 of the most popular right-angle drills and right-angle drill attachments. While these specialty tools are relatively new to the construction and DIY world, they’re quickly gaining fans. We found out why.

For more information on how and where to best use a right-angle drill, read on for answers to some common questions about these power tools.

A right-angle drill features a geared head that rotates the chuck at a 90-degree angle to the axis of the body, allowing it to access tight spaces and drill or drive at angles that a conventional drill cannot reach.

Glenda Taylor is a BobVila.com staff writer with a background in the residential remodeling, home building, and home improvement industries. She started writing for BobVila.com in 2016 and covers a range of topics, including construction methods, code compliance, tool use, and the latest news in the housing and real estate industries.

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When assessing the battery life of a cordless tool, it’s important to consider not only how long each individual charge lasts but also how long the battery itself will hold a charge before it needs to be replaced. Most batteries for right-angle cordless drills will last about 3 hours on a single charge with intermittent use and will take about 3 hours to recharge.

One of our favorite features was the head’s ability to rotate in any direction, which allowed us to insert fasteners at any angle—although two hands are required when using the rotating head. Weighing only 1.2 pounds, this drill is comfortable for extended use, yet it offers an impressive 1,750 rpm—a remarkable feat for a 12-volt model. A magnetic bit holder adds convenience and also prevents the frustration of dropped screws.

Corded right-angle drills have access to more power, which means they can produce more rpm. A corded 4-amp right-angle drill boasts around 2,400 rpm. While speed is not the same as torque, motors that can produce greater rpm are more powerful and thus capable of producing more torque.

Throughout our testing, we paid close attention to the drills’ power, precision, and ease of use. We tested the drills with different types of bits—including standard, auger, hole-saw, and driver bits—to assess their versatility across various applications. We evaluated their power and performance to gauge their ability to handle different tasks efficiently. We also looked for ergonomic design and user-friendliness, considering factors like grip comfort and the convenience of features like LED lights and soft start-ups.

We managed to slip this drill into a narrow 5-inch-wide space, making it especially well suited for HVAC professionals wanting to reach cramped spots without the hassle of a manual ratchet or driver. There’s one catch: This little right-angle drill lacks a clutch, which means it doesn’t have the protection other drills do against stripping screw heads. But don’t worry; we found a work-around. By setting it to the lowest speed and gently squeezing the variable-speed trigger, we avoided any screw head mishaps or wrenched wrists.

Chuck size is also important to consider. Most right-angle drills have a ⅜-inch chuck, which helps keep the head compact. Some larger models feature a ½-inch chuck for drilling larger holes or driving in bigger screws. These models typically have a wider head.

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Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, you’ve likely encountered situations where a standard drill just can’t reach—navigating between studs, working inside cabinets, or tackling tight corners. Right-angle drills—the new kids on the block—offer a handy solution, but since these are relatively new tools, we decided to test them in our workshops and on our jobsites.

Looking for an even tighter drilling solution at an affordable price? Enter the Ridgid subcompact right-angle drill, a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise performance. A flagship brand of The Home Depot, Ridgid tools hold their own among their big-name counterparts, and the R87701K does not disappoint.

While the corded design offers a consistent power supply sans battery charging, it has limitations. Since we’re so used to cordless tools, we really noticed the Makita’s cord limitations, such as the need to drag a cord around and being limited to working near an electrical outlet.

This small attachment weighs just 4.8 ounces and can be stored alongside a standard drill, so it’s always ready to take the place of a hand ratchet for quick fastener attachment or drilling within confined areas. The DeWalt attachment also works well when connected to a standard impact driver.

But who truly needs a right-angle drill? Plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and pretty much anyone involved in construction and renovation projects will appreciate one occasionally. Even hobbyists and homeowners may need a right-angle drill to tackle tasks in confined areas. However, not every job warrants a right-angle drill; those who primarily engage in standard drilling or use drills for high-torque applications might find more value in a traditional drill driver.

Size and weight determine the functionality and ease of use for a right-angle drill. Since the purpose of a right-angle drill is to fit into tight places, size is crucial. Most right-angle drills have a head between 3 and 4 inches wide, so they’re capable of fitting into places that standard corded and cordless power drills can’t reach.

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Right-angle drills also often offer convenient features like LED lights that illuminate the work area and switches that make it easier to control the drill speed, permitting the user to increase or decrease the speed range to maximize control and improve torque.

As with standard drills, right-angle drills are capable of using various types of bits and attachments. These drills are adept at drilling holes with standard drill bits or driving in screws with Phillips-head, flat, star, and other styles of screw-driving bits. These drills can also use socket attachments to drive bolts.

Unlike other 12V models, the Bosch Flexiclick isn’t confined solely to right-angle drilling. The array of attachments sets this drill apart, transforming it into a standard, offset, or right-angle drill by simply connecting the corresponding attachment.

Finally, we awarded points based on a rubric: The better a tool performed a task, the more points it received. After testing, we averaged the points to help determine the best uses for the different tools.

Looking for a 12-volt (V) right-angle drill that delivers impressive power? The Milwaukee cordless drill caught our attention for all the right reasons. We tested the kit version, complete with a battery and charger. However, users who are already equipped with 12V Milwaukee tools can order the drill as a “tool only” and utilize existing batteries.

The LED light is a neat feature, although we would have welcomed more brightness. Considering the price, we think it’s a great deal—a trusty right-angle drill that grants easy access to those areas previously unreachable by standard drills.

This specialty drill is ideal for professionals like plumbers and electricians who frequently work in tight spaces since it streamlines tasks that involve drilling through studs or joists to run wiring or lines. Like other right-angle drills, the body of this drill is narrow and elongated. However, because its main grip is lower on the tool, a second hand is needed to stabilize the drill and control pressure on the head while drilling. That took some getting used to, but it was simple once we mastered the technique. We used the same approach for all the right-angle drills we tested.

Those wanting a general-purpose drill for a wide range of applications might find the specialized nature of the Makita XAD05T less suitable. If high torque and broad functionality are a priority, a standard drill might be a better fit. The Makita XAD05T drill is a top-tier tool designed for specialized tasks that demand precision and maneuverability. For those requiring its unique capabilities, this drill can be a valuable addition to the tool kit, offering efficiency and accuracy in tight spaces.

Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries. She and her husband own a general contracting company, and Taylor is experienced in both residential and commercial building applications. She tests a wide range of power tools, as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.

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While the width of the head is perhaps the most crucial feature of a right-angle drill—since it determines the space into which it can fit—several other factors are also vital to consider, including motor speed, power source, and weight. Ahead, learn more about these and other important attributes to think about when choosing the best right-angle drill.

Look no further than the Bosch 12V Flexiclick drill. This handy tool boasts high and low speeds alongside a variable-speed trigger, and it performed admirably in our hands-on tests.

Lithium-ion batteries typically last about 3 years, or about 300 to 500 charging cycles, before they begin to lose their ability to hold a charge. This doesn’t mean the battery will stop working altogether. As a battery nears the end of its life, it will simply last for a shorter period of time and require more frequent charging.

This heavy-duty drill comes with a potent 10-amp motor that provided unwavering power in our tests, drilling effortlessly through wall studs and joists. We found the second-hand handle indispensable for robust drilling tasks, as we could grip it firmly while drilling for additional support. Perhaps best of all, both our right- and left-handed testers were able to use the drill comfortably, thanks to the ability to attach the handle to either side of the tool.

Ahead, find out the results of our hands-on tests and how the following models earned their spot in this lineup of the best right-angle drills.

A drill’s speed determines how quickly the tool can drill holes or drive screws. It also provides some indication as to how much torque the drill produces if the manufacturer does not provide that information. Speed is measured in rpm and, in most cases, is directly related to the power source. Most cordless 18V right-angle drills have a maximum speed of around 1,500 rpm, while some 20V drills can produce about 2,000 rpm.

This versatile tool is helpful for a broad range of projects. It can be invaluable for fitting into tight spaces when working on a vehicle. A right-angle drill is also ideal for drilling between floor joists or wall studs, which are spaces that are typically too narrow for a standard drill.

Corded models, in comparison, require a standard electrical outlet. While these drills aren’t as convenient, a 120V electricity supply makes them more powerful while providing a reliable and constant power supply. Corded drills are also generally less expensive than cordless models. As with many power tools, spending more on a cordless model makes sense if it will see regular use. A less expensive corded model should suffice for DIYers who may only use a right-angle drill on occasion.

With the attachment connected to a standard drill, we drilled in spaces with ease where our hands could barely fit. Although designed for light-duty applications, its practicality is undeniable. Since the attachment is made from durable materials and fully magnetized, we could insert screws in tight spots without needing to wedge in a second hand to hold the screw steady.

Our testing involved a range of tasks commonly encountered by professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. We tested the drills’ capabilities in drilling holes through various materials, including studs and joists, to simulate the challenges faced during electrical and plumbing work. We also assessed their effectiveness for driving screws in tight spaces, such as cabinet bases and other confined areas.

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This drill falls on the smaller side of the spectrum—it tips the scales at a mere 2.03 pounds. It slipped effortlessly into tight spots during tests, and its lightweight design meant we could comfortably operate it with just one hand. Since this drill packs less power than some other models we tested, it’s not designed for heavy construction work. Instead, its forte lies in light-duty tasks like furniture assembly and drilling small holes in confined spaces. The integrated LED light was handy, though we did use an additional work light in darker areas.

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Right-angle drills, like other power tools, use a variety of accessories, including drill bits, screwdriver bits, chuck keys, and other accessories that can be misplaced. For this reason, many right-angle drills include a storage bag that holds the tool, accessories, batteries, and chargers all in one place for easy storage and transport.

Introducing the powerhouse of right-angle drills: The Makita DA4031 electric drill stands out as a true performer. While it’s the sole corded model among the drills we tested, a host of impressive features make this drill an outstanding choice for construction pros.

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Right-angle drills are available in corded and cordless varieties, each of which has its pros and cons. Cordless drills operate via a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and offer the convenience and flexibility of not requiring an electrical outlet or a cord. This allows them to be used virtually anywhere.

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A right-angle drill attachment is an accessory that can be added to a standard drill or driver to enable drilling and driving in tight or confined spaces that are difficult to access with a regular tool.

A ⅜-inch drill features a chuck that can accommodate drill bits with a maximum diameter of ⅜ inch. Similarly, a ½-inch drill has a larger chuck that can handle drill bits with a maximum diameter of ½ inch. A ½-inch drill generally offers more power and torque, making it suitable for drilling larger holes and tackling tougher materials. It’s commonly used in construction and heavy-duty applications.

Any of the following right-angle drills will make it easier to drill holes and drive screws in tight areas, but each one comes with some pros and cons. We’ve detailed both the benefits and the downsides noted during our tests. Some models are best suited to light-duty use, while others are powerhouses designed with construction pros in mind. There’s certain to be one that will suit your project needs.

DeWalt’s handy right-angle attachment is a creative solution for those seeking occasional access to confined spaces without buying a dedicated right-angle drill.

This ingenious accessory is not a stand-alone tool but a versatile addition that easily connects to the chuck of a ¼-inch standard DeWalt drill/driver or impact driver. It is well suited to even the tightest of spots and offers a convenient means of right-angle drilling and driving. As staunch admirers of DeWalt’s innovation and craftsmanship, we think this compact attachment lives up to the manufacturer’s stellar reputation.

Right-angle drills have ergonomically shaped handles with rubberized grips that enable you to grip them securely with one hand while drilling. Many also have detachable side handles to apply more leverage on the drill with the other hand. Some manufacturers equip right-angle drills with paddle-style triggers that run the length of the handle. This feature allows you to better regulate pressure on the trigger to control the speed of the drill.

Right-angle drills can also benefit from being short and lightweight enough to easily manage with one hand—although heavy-duty models typically come with a secondary handle.

The corded Makita made quick work of drilling large holes through ply materials and dimensional lumber. Its built-in clutch exhibited impeccable performance, effectively halting torque at low speeds when the tool met substantial resistance. With a drill this powerful, a good clutch is a must—not just for not stripping screw heads but also to keep from breaking a wrist.

Weighing a mere 2.03 pounds, it’s perfect for single-handed use—provided your grip is secure. Pros and DIY enthusiasts accustomed to one-handed power tool operation will find it comfortable.

The real surprise here is the inclusion of a clutch—an essential feature for inserting screws to prevent any potential screw head stripping. What’s more, the elongated trigger design allowed us to adjust our grip up or down on the tool handle (based on comfort level) and still easily pull the trigger. While this drill is not intended for heavy-duty tasks, it’s a good choice for electricians, HVAC technicians, and plumbers who require precise screw insertion or minor hole drilling in tight spaces.

For those pursuing the ultimate right-angle drilling companion on the jobsite, we think it will be tough to beat the Makita DA4031 with its heavy-duty construction, durability, and reliable performance.

The Makita XAD05T 18V right-angle drill offers exceptional versatility and precision, making it a standout choice for specialized drilling tasks. With its unique right-angle design, this drill excels in navigating tight spaces where conventional drills struggle. In our hands-on tests, the XAD05T allowed us to drill holes and insert and remove fasteners in spots where a standard drill would not fit.

For DIY enthusiasts and shoppers seeking versatility without the need for heavy torque, the Bosch Flexiclick is a game changer. We found it effortless to change attachments thanks to the one-click interface, and it offers the ability to use the drill in multiple ways. A convenient storage case keeps everything organized.