Einhell Combi Drill Review
Einhell offers a range of cordless combi drills that balance performance with affordability, making them a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts and home users. This review breaks down the key models, their specs, and how they stack up against the competition.
Quick answer
The Einhell TE-CD 18/50 Li-i is the best overall pick for most DIYers, offering a solid balance of torque, battery life, and value. For budget-focused buyers, the Einhell TE-CD 18/30 Li-i provides essential drilling and driving power at a lower price point.
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.
Einhell TE-CD 18/50 Li-i
Best balance of torque, battery life, and value for DIY tasks.
| Model | Best For | Max Torque | Chuck Size | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TE-CD 18/50 Li-i | Overall DIY | 50 Nm | 13 mm | 4.5/5 |
| TE-CD 18/30 Li-i | Budget | 30 Nm | 10 mm | 4.0/5 |
| TE-CD 18/115 Li-i | Compact | 28 Nm | 13 mm | 4.2/5 |
| TE-CD 18/70 Li-i | Heavy-Duty DIY | 70 Nm | 13 mm | 4.3/5 |
| TE-CD 18/130 Li-i | Hammer Drilling | 30 Nm | 13 mm | 4.1/5 |
Einhell TE-CD 18/50 Li-i
Best OverallPros
- Good torque for most DIY tasks
- Two-speed gearbox for versatility
- Comes with two 2.5 Ah batteries
Cons
- Chuck can slip under heavy load
- Battery indicator not always accurate
The TE-CD 18/50 Li-i is the most balanced Einhell combi drill for general DIY. Its 50 Nm of torque handles drilling into wood, metal, and masonry (with hammer function) effectively. The two-speed gearbox allows for controlled screwdriving at low speed and faster drilling at high speed.
Owner reviews highlight its value for money, with many noting it performs similarly to more expensive brands for occasional use. The included 2.5 Ah batteries provide decent runtime for tasks like assembling furniture or drilling into stud walls. Some users report the chuck can loosen during heavy drilling, requiring occasional retightening.
Einhell TE-CD 18/30 Li-i
Best BudgetPros
- Very affordable price point
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Decent for light DIY tasks
Cons
- Low torque struggles with dense materials
- Smaller 1.5 Ah battery limits runtime
The TE-CD 18/30 Li-i is the entry-level option in Einhell's combi drill lineup. With 30 Nm of torque, it is best suited for light tasks like drilling into softwood, plasterboard, or driving screws into pre-drilled holes. The 10 mm chuck limits bit size but is adequate for most home jobs.
Owner feedback shows it is a popular choice for users on a tight budget or those who need a backup drill. The 1.5 Ah battery provides enough power for small projects, but heavy users will need to recharge frequently. It lacks the power for masonry drilling or large-diameter bits.
Einhell TE-CD 18/115 Li-i
Best CompactPros
- Short length for tight spaces
- 13 mm chuck accepts larger bits
- Brushless motor for efficiency
Cons
- Lower torque than the 50 Nm model
- Battery life could be better
The TE-CD 18/115 Li-i is designed for accessibility, with a compact head length that fits into confined spaces like cabinets or behind furniture. Despite its size, it features a 13 mm chuck and a brushless motor, which improves efficiency and runtime compared to brushed alternatives.
User reviews praise its ergonomics and ease of use in awkward positions. The 28 Nm torque is sufficient for light to medium drilling in wood and metal. It is not ideal for heavy masonry work, but its compact form factor makes it a great second drill for detail work.
Einhell TE-CD 18/70 Li-i
Best Heavy-Duty DIYPros
- High torque for tougher materials
- Large 4.0 Ah battery for long runtime
- Metal gearbox for durability
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than other models
- Higher price point
The TE-CD 18/70 Li-i is Einhell's most powerful combi drill in this lineup, delivering 70 Nm of torque. It is designed for more demanding tasks like drilling into hardwood, thick metal, or masonry with the hammer function. The 4.0 Ah battery provides extended runtime for large projects.
Owner reviews note its robust build and ability to handle tasks that would stall smaller drills. The metal gearbox adds to its longevity. However, its weight and size make it less suitable for overhead work or prolonged use. It is best for DIYers who need extra power for occasional heavy jobs.
Einhell TE-CD 18/130 Li-i
Best Hammer DrillPros
- Hammer function for masonry
- 13 mm chuck for larger bits
- Affordable hammer drill option
Cons
- Lower torque limits heavy drilling
- Hammer action is not for professional use
The TE-CD 18/130 Li-i is Einhell's dedicated hammer drill model, featuring a hammer action for drilling into brick and concrete. With 30 Nm of torque, it is suitable for occasional masonry work like hanging shelves or TV brackets. The 13 mm chuck accepts standard bits.
Owner reviews indicate it handles light masonry tasks well but struggles with harder materials or larger diameter holes. The hammer action is effective but not as powerful as dedicated SDS drills. It is a good choice for DIYers who need a single tool for occasional masonry drilling without investing in a separate hammer drill.
What to check before buying an Einhell combi drill
Before choosing an Einhell combi drill, consider the torque rating, which determines how easily the drill can handle tough materials. Higher torque (50 Nm or above) is better for hardwood and metal, while lower torque (30 Nm) is fine for softwood and plasterboard.
Battery capacity is another key factor. Models with 2.5 Ah or 4.0 Ah batteries offer longer runtime, while 1.5 Ah packs are lighter but require more frequent charging. Check if the drill is part of the Einhell Power X-Change system, which allows batteries to be shared across many tools.
Mistakes to avoid when buying an Einhell combi drill
A common mistake is choosing a model with too little torque for the intended tasks. A 30 Nm drill will struggle with masonry or large hole saws, leading to frustration and poor results. Always match the torque to your most demanding job.
Another error is overlooking the chuck size. A 10 mm chuck limits bit selection, while a 13 mm chuck is more versatile. Also, avoid buying a drill without checking if it includes a hammer function if you plan to drill into brick or concrete.
Who is an Einhell combi drill for?
Einhell combi drills are primarily aimed at DIY enthusiasts and home users who need reliable tools for occasional projects. They are not designed for daily professional use but offer good value for money compared to premium brands like DeWalt or Makita.
These drills are ideal for tasks such as assembling furniture, drilling into wood and metal, driving screws, and light masonry work. The Power X-Change system makes them a good choice for users who want to build a cordless tool collection without a high upfront cost.
Performance and build quality
Einhell drills generally offer solid performance for their price range. The TE-CD 18/50 and TE-CD 18/70 models provide sufficient torque for most DIY tasks, with two-speed gearboxes that allow for controlled screwdriving and faster drilling. The hammer function on the TE-CD 18/130 is adequate for light masonry.
Build quality is decent, with plastic housings that feel durable for home use. Metal gearboxes on higher-end models add longevity. However, some users report that chucks can loosen over time, and battery indicators may not always be precise. Overall, they are well-built for the price point.
Alternatives to Einhell combi drills
If you need more power or professional-grade durability, consider the DeWalt DCD796 or Makita DHP484. These offer higher torque, better build quality, and longer warranties, but at a higher price. For budget-conscious users, Ryobi offers a similar value proposition with a wide tool ecosystem.
For those who prefer corded drills, the Bosch GSB 13 RE provides consistent power without battery limitations. However, cordless freedom is a major advantage for most DIY projects, making Einhell a strong contender in the affordable cordless market.
FAQs
Are Einhell combi drills any good?
Yes, they offer good value for DIY users with decent torque and battery life for the price. They are not professional-grade but are reliable for home projects.
What is the best Einhell combi drill?
The Einhell TE-CD 18/50 Li-i is the best overall for most DIYers due to its balanced torque and battery life. For heavy tasks, the TE-CD 18/70 Li-i is better.
Does Einhell make a hammer drill?
Yes, the Einhell TE-CD 18/130 Li-i is a combi drill with a hammer function for light masonry work. It is suitable for drilling into brick and concrete.
Are Einhell batteries interchangeable?
Yes, all Einhell Power X-Change batteries are compatible across the range of tools. This allows you to use the same battery for drills, saws, and other tools.
What is the torque of Einhell combi drills?
Torque ranges from 28 Nm on compact models to 70 Nm on heavy-duty models. The most popular TE-CD 18/50 offers 50 Nm.
How long does an Einhell battery last?
Runtime depends on the battery capacity and task. A 2.5 Ah battery can last for several hours of light use, while heavy drilling drains it faster.
Is Einhell a German brand?
Yes, Einhell is a German company known for manufacturing power tools and garden equipment. Their products are designed in Germany and produced globally.
Can Einhell drills be used for metal drilling?
Yes, with the correct drill bits, Einhell combi drills can drill into metal. Higher torque models like the TE-CD 18/70 are better for thicker metals.
What is the warranty on Einhell drills?
Most Einhell drills come with a 2-year warranty. Some models may offer extended warranties when registered.
How does Einhell compare to DeWalt?
Einhell is more affordable and suitable for DIY use, while DeWalt offers higher power and durability for professional tradespeople. DeWalt tools are generally more expensive.
Do Einhell drills come with a case?
Many Einhell combi drills are sold in kits that include a carrying case, batteries, and a charger. Check the product description for included items.
What is the best budget Einhell combi drill?
The Einhell TE-CD 18/30 Li-i is the best budget option, offering essential features at a low price. It is suitable for light DIY tasks.
Our verdict
The Einhell TE-CD 18/50 Li-i is the best overall combi drill for DIYers, offering a strong balance of torque, battery life, and value. For budget-conscious buyers, the TE-CD 18/30 Li-i provides a capable entry-level option. Both are solid choices within the Power X-Change ecosystem.