Brushless vs Brushed Drill: Is a Brushless Motor Worth It?

When shopping for a cordless drill, you'll see the word "brushless" everywhere. Brushless drills usually cost a bit more, so is the upgrade worth it? Here's a simple breakdown of the difference between brushed and brushless motors, and which one makes sense for you.

What Is a Brushed Motor?

A brushed motor uses small carbon blocks, called brushes, that physically rub against a spinning part inside the motor to deliver power. This design is simple and cheap to make, which is why brushed drills cost less. The downside is friction: the brushes create heat, waste some battery power, and slowly wear out over time.

What Is a Brushless Motor?

A brushless motor has no brushes. Instead, a small electronic controller switches power to the motor magnetically. With no parts rubbing together, there's less friction, less heat, and less wasted energy. The controller can also adjust power based on how hard the drill is working.

Brushless vs Brushed: The Key Differences

Battery life: Brushless motors use battery power more efficiently, so you get more work done on each charge.

Power: Brushless drills typically deliver more power and torque for their size, which helps with tough jobs like drilling into hardwood or driving long screws.

Heat: Less friction means brushless drills run cooler, even during long jobs.

Lifespan and maintenance: With no brushes to wear down, brushless motors generally last longer and need less maintenance.

Size and weight: Brushless drills are often more compact and lighter for the same power.

Price: Brushed drills are cheaper upfront. Brushless drills cost more but usually give better value over time.

When a Brushed Drill Is Enough

If you only drill a few holes a year, hang pictures, or assemble furniture occasionally, a brushed drill will do the job. It's a budget-friendly option for light, occasional use.

When You Should Go Brushless

If you use your drill regularly, take on DIY projects, work with hardwood or metal, or want a tool that lasts for years, brushless is worth the extra cost. You'll notice the longer battery life and extra power right away.

Our Brushless Pick: 10mm Brushless Cordless Drill

Our 10mm Brushless Cordless Drill gives you the efficiency and power of a brushless motor in a cordless tool that's ready for home repairs, DIY builds, and workshop jobs.

Shop the 10mm Brushless Cordless Drill – $144.99

Need a Drill and Ratchet in One?

If you work on cars or equipment, the 12V Cordless Electric Drill & Ratchet Tool combines drilling and ratcheting in one compact tool, which saves space in your toolbox.

Shop the 12V Drill & Ratchet Tool – $119.99

Final Verdict

For occasional light jobs, a brushed drill is fine. For regular use, tougher materials, and a tool that lasts, brushless is the better investment. Browse all our drills and drivers, with free US shipping and 30-day returns on unused items.

More guides: Which Cordless Chainsaw Size Do You Need? and 8 Best Tool Gifts Under $100.