Best Combi Drill Under £100
Finding a reliable combi drill that delivers hammer action, screwdriving power, and drilling precision without breaking £100 is a challenge. We have analysed specs, battery ecosystems, and owner reviews to find the best value options that won't let you down.
Quick answer
The Bosch UniversalImpact 18V is the best combi drill under £100 for most users, offering a superb balance of power, build quality, and battery life. For maximum torque on a budget, the Einhell TE-CD 18/115 Li-i is the top pick for heavy-duty DIY tasks.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
- No fake hands-on claims
Research updated June 2026.
Bosch UniversalImpact 18V
Best all-round performer with excellent ergonomics and a proven battery system.
| Product | Best For | Max Torque | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch UniversalImpact 18V | Overall DIY | 50 Nm | 4.5/5 | Check |
| Einhell TE-CD 18/115 Li-i | Heavy Duty | 55 Nm | 4.3/5 | Check |
| Makita DF333D | Compact Build | 40 Nm | 4.4/5 | Check |
| Ryobi R18PD3 | Ecosystem Value | 45 Nm | 4.2/5 | Check |
| DeWalt DCD709 | Durability | 42 Nm | 4.3/5 | Check |
Bosch UniversalImpact 18V
Best OverallPros
- Excellent build quality from Bosch
- Lightweight at 1.4 kg
- Reliable 50 Nm torque for most tasks
Cons
- Battery not the largest capacity
- Hammer mode can be noisy
The Bosch UniversalImpact 18V is a standout in this price bracket, offering a polished experience that rivals more expensive models. With 50 Nm of torque and a 13mm keyless chuck, it handles drilling into wood, metal, and masonry with confidence. Owner reviews consistently praise its comfortable grip and low vibration, making it ideal for extended use.
The included 2.0 Ah battery provides decent runtime for typical DIY projects, and the Bosch Power for ALL system means you can share batteries with other tools. While the hammer action is effective, it is not as aggressive as dedicated SDS drills, but for occasional brickwork, it performs well.
Einhell TE-CD 18/115 Li-i
Best Heavy DutyPros
- Highest torque in this price range
- Large 2.5 Ah battery included
- Good value for money
Cons
- Heavier than competitors
- Build quality feels less premium
The Einhell TE-CD 18/115 Li-i is built for those who need extra grunt for tough materials. With 55 Nm of torque, it can drive large screws into hardwood and drill into masonry more effectively than many rivals. The included 2.5 Ah battery offers longer runtimes, which is a clear advantage for bigger projects.
Owner feedback highlights its raw power but notes that the drill is bulkier and heavier, which can cause fatigue during overhead work. The Einhell Power X-Change ecosystem is affordable and extensive, making this a great entry point for a larger tool collection. It is not the most refined tool, but it gets the job done.
Makita DF333D
Best CompactPros
- Very compact and lightweight
- Makita brand reliability
- Good for tight spaces
Cons
- Lower torque than 18V models
- 10mm chuck limits bit size
The Makita DF333D is a 12V combi drill that excels in portability and ease of use. Its compact size makes it perfect for working in cabinets, lofts, or other confined areas. Despite the lower voltage, it delivers 40 Nm of torque, which is sufficient for most screwdriving and light drilling tasks.
Owner reviews consistently mention its robust build quality and the smooth operation of its brushless motor. The 10mm chuck is a limitation for larger bits, but for everyday DIY, it is rarely an issue. The battery life is excellent for a 12V tool, and the Makita ecosystem is one of the best.
Ryobi R18PD3
Best Ecosystem ValuePros
- Huge Ryobi tool ecosystem
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- Good power for the price
Cons
- Small battery included
- Build quality feels average
The Ryobi R18PD3 is a brushless combi drill that offers great value, especially if you plan to expand your tool collection. The brushless motor provides better efficiency and longer runtime compared to brushed alternatives. With 45 Nm of torque, it handles most DIY tasks without issue.
Owner feedback is positive, with many praising the wide range of compatible Ryobi One+ tools. The main downside is the included 1.5 Ah battery, which is small and may require an upgrade for larger projects. The grip is comfortable, but the overall build feels less robust than Bosch or Makita options.
DeWalt DCD709
Best DurabilityPros
- Rugged build quality
- DeWalt brand reliability
- Good balance of power and weight
Cons
- Torque slightly lower than rivals
- Battery not included in some kits
The DeWalt DCD709 is a brushed combi drill that prioritises durability and long-term reliability. It features a robust housing and a metal gear case, designed to withstand drops and job site conditions. With 42 Nm of torque, it is adequate for general DIY and light professional use.
Owner reviews appreciate its solid feel and the reputation of the DeWalt brand. The main drawback is that some kits are sold as bare tools, requiring a separate battery purchase. The torque is lower than the Einhell or Bosch, but the build quality is superior, making it a good investment for those who need a tough drill.
What to Look for in a Combi Drill Under £100
When shopping on a budget, focusing on key specifications helps you avoid disappointment. Torque, measured in Newton-metres (Nm), determines how easily the drill can drive screws or drill into tough materials. For general DIY, 40-50 Nm is sufficient. Battery voltage is also critical; 18V drills offer more power and runtime than 12V models, though 12V tools are lighter and more compact.
The chuck size is another factor. A 13mm keyless chuck is standard and accepts most common bits. Some budget drills may have a 10mm chuck, which limits your bit options. Finally, consider the battery ecosystem. Brands like Bosch, Ryobi, and Einhell offer shared battery platforms, allowing you to expand your tool collection without buying new batteries.
Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Budget Combi Drill
A common mistake is focusing solely on price and ignoring the battery system. A cheap drill with a proprietary battery that is hard to replace can become useless quickly. Always check if the battery is compatible with other tools from the same brand. Another error is overlooking the hammer action quality. Some budget drills have a weak hammer mechanism that struggles with masonry, so read owner reviews for real-world performance.
Finally, do not assume a higher torque number always means a better drill. Torque is important, but build quality, ergonomics, and warranty also matter. A drill with 55 Nm but poor balance can be tiring to use, while a 45 Nm model with a comfortable grip may be more effective for longer tasks.
FAQs
What is a combi drill used for?
A combi drill is a versatile tool that can drill into wood, metal, and masonry, as well as drive screws and bolts.
Is 18V better than 12V for a combi drill?
Yes, 18V drills generally offer more torque and longer runtime, making them better for heavy tasks, while 12V drills are lighter and more compact.
Can I use a combi drill for masonry?
Yes, most combi drills have a hammer action setting for drilling into brick or block, but they are not as powerful as dedicated SDS drills.
What torque do I need for DIY?
For general DIY tasks like assembling furniture or drilling into wood, 40-50 Nm is sufficient.
Are brushless motors worth the extra cost?
Yes, brushless motors are more efficient, run cooler, and last longer than brushed motors, making them a good investment.
What is the best combi drill under £100?
The Bosch UniversalImpact 18V is the best overall pick for its balance of power, build quality, and battery ecosystem.
Do I need a hammer drill for brick walls?
For occasional brick drilling, a combi drill with hammer action works, but for frequent masonry work, a dedicated SDS drill is better.
How long does a combi drill battery last?
Battery life varies, but a 2.0 Ah battery typically lasts 30-60 minutes of continuous use, depending on the task.
Can I use a combi drill as a screwdriver?
Yes, combi drills have adjustable clutches to prevent over-tightening screws, making them suitable for screwdriving.
What is the warranty on these drills?
Most brands offer a 1-2 year warranty, with some like Bosch and Makita offering extended warranties upon registration.
Is it worth buying a bare tool?
Bare tools are cheaper if you already own compatible batteries, but factor in the cost of a battery and charger if you are starting from scratch.
What is the difference between a drill and a combi drill?
A combi drill adds a hammer action mechanism for drilling into masonry, while a standard drill only drills and drives screws.
Our verdict
For the best all-round combi drill under £100, the Bosch UniversalImpact 18V is our top pick, offering a perfect mix of power, comfort, and reliability. If you need maximum torque for heavy tasks, the Einhell TE-CD 18/115 Li-i is the best budget option. For a compact and lightweight tool, the Makita DF333D is an excellent choice.