DeWalt Multitool 18V XR Brushless
A cordless power tool (18V, 35 Newton Metres Item Package Quantity 1 Number of Pieces 1, brushless), a capable pick for drilling and driving around the home and site.
The Best Cordless Combi Drills in the UK (2026)
A combi drill does everything a drill/driver does plus hammer action for masonry - the best all-rounder for a UK home. Here's how to choose one.
Quick answer
A combi drill is the best single drill for most UK homes because it adds a hammer mode for drilling into brick and masonry. Look for brushless if you'll use it often, enough torque for the jobs you do, and a brand whose battery platform you want to grow into.
What 'combi' adds
A combi drill has three modes: drill (wood/metal), screwdrive (with a clutch), and hammer (a rapid forward tapping for masonry). That hammer action is what lets it drill into brick and concrete for wall plugs - something a plain drill/driver can't do well. For a typical home with the odd masonry job, the combi is the obvious choice.
What to look for
- Brushless motor for power, runtime and longevity (worth it for frequent use).
- Torque sufficient for your jobs - more for masonry and big fixings.
- Two-speed gearbox - low speed for torque, high for drilling.
- Decent battery (Ah) and a sensible charger.
- Comfort and weight if you'll use it for long sessions.
Combi vs impact driver
They're complementary, not rivals. The combi drills holes (including masonry) and drives screws with clutch control. The impact driver drives long screws and bolts with far more torque, but isn't for precise drilling. If you can only have one, get the combi; many people add an impact driver later as a twin pack.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Buying a plain drill/driver then needing masonry (no hammer mode).
- Choosing on voltage rather than torque and motor.
- Forgetting the battery platform you're committing to.
- Skipping brushless if you'll use it a lot.
Our top picks
#1
#2 
Bosch Professional 18V System Cordless LED Construction
A cordless power tool (18V), a capable pick for drilling and driving around the home and site.
#3 
Dewalt XR Brushless Combi Drill With 2 X 5.0 Ah
A cordless power tool (18V, 45 Newton Metres, brushless), a capable pick for drilling and driving around the home and site.
#4 
Makita 18 V Cordless Li-ion Combi Drill Kit and
A cordless power tool (18V), a capable pick for drilling and driving around the home and site.
#5 
Ryobi One+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless 1/2 In. Hammer Drill
A cordless power tool (18V, brushless), a capable pick for drilling and driving around the home and site.
#6 
Bosch Professional 18V System Cordless Combi Kit: GSB
A cordless power tool (18V, 55 Nm, brushless), a capable pick for drilling and driving around the home and site.
#7 
Ryobi Starter Kit 18 V ONE Plus Cordless Combi Drill
A cordless power tool (18V, 50 Nm), a capable pick for drilling and driving around the home and site.
#8 
Milwaukee 18V Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/4'' Hex
A cordless power tool (18V, brushless), a capable pick for drilling and driving around the home and site.
#9 
Makita 18V Li-Ion LXT Combi Drill
A cordless power tool (18V, 58 Nm), a capable pick for drilling and driving around the home and site.
#10 
Einhell Cordless Drill Driver With Battery and Charger 18V
A cordless power tool (18V, 44 Nm), a capable pick for drilling and driving around the home and site.
Frequently asked questions
What is a combi drill used for?
Drilling wood and metal, screwdriving with clutch control, and - via its hammer mode - drilling into brick and masonry for wall plugs. It's the best all-rounder for a typical home.
Combi drill or impact driver - which should I buy?
If you can only have one, the combi drill - it drills (including masonry) and drives screws. Add an impact driver for high-torque driving of long screws and bolts.
Do I need a brushless combi drill?
For frequent or tougher use, yes - brushless gives more power, runtime and longevity. For occasional DIY, a brushed combi is fine and cheaper.
Bottom line
Our top pick is the DeWalt Multitool 18V XR Brushless (our score 9.5/10) - A cordless power tool (18V, 35 Newton Metres Item Package Quantity 1 Number of Pieces 1, brushless), a capable pick for drilling and driving around the home and site..