A combi drill, also known as a combination drill, is one of the most versatile power tools used in homes and professional workshops across the UK. It combines three essential functions in one tool:
- Drilling
- Screwdriving
- Hammer drilling
Because of this multi-purpose design, combi drills have become extremely popular among DIY users, homeowners, electricians, plumbers, and construction professionals.
Whether you are assembling furniture, drilling into wood or metal, or working on light masonry, a combi drill can handle most everyday tasks efficiently.
Cordless vs Corded Combi Drills – Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between a cordless combi drill and a corded combi drill depends on how often you use the tool and the type of work you do.
Cordless Combi Drills
Cordless drills are the most popular choice for home DIY projects in the UK. They are powered by Lithium-ion batteries, which provide good performance, fast charging, and longer battery life.
Benefits of Cordless Combi Drills:
- Portability and freedom of movement
- No need for a power socket
- Ideal for indoor and outdoor use
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Perfect for DIY, furniture fitting, and light construction work
Cordless combi drills are especially useful for tasks like:
- Installing shelves
- Hanging curtain rails
- Assembling flat-pack furniture
- Light drilling into brick or plaster
Corded Combi Drills
Corded drills offer continuous and consistent power, making them suitable for heavy-duty drilling tasks. Unlike cordless drills, they do not rely on batteries, so there is no downtime for charging.
Benefits of Corded Combi Drills:
- Constant power output
- Better for long working hours
- More affordable than high-end cordless models
- Ideal for drilling into concrete, masonry, and metal
If you frequently work on construction sites or renovation projects, a corded combi drill may be a better long-term investment.
Why Are Combi Drills So Popular?
Combi drills have gained popularity because they eliminate the need to buy multiple tools. Instead of owning a separate drill, screwdriver, and hammer drill, you get all three functions in one compact tool.
Key Reasons for Their Popularity:
- Multi-function design
- Cost-effective solution
- Suitable for beginners and professionals
- Available in various power ratings and price ranges
- Widely used across UK households and trade industries
Brands like DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, Milwaukee, and Einhell have further increased demand by offering reliable and durable combi drills for every budget.
What Can You Use a Combi Drill For?
A combi drill is suitable for a wide range of applications, including:
- Drilling into wood, plastic, and metal
- Hammer drilling into brick and light concrete
- Driving screws into timber and drywall
- Home improvement and renovation projects
- Professional trade and site work
For most UK homeowners, a cordless combi drill is more than sufficient for everyday tasks. However, tradespeople who require extended usage and higher torque may prefer corded models.
Key Features to Look for When Buying a Combi Drill
When choosing the best combi drill, consider the following features:
- Voltage (18V is most common in the UK)
- Torque settings for better control
- Hammer function for masonry drilling
- Battery capacity (Ah) for cordless models
- Keyless chuck for quick bit changes
- Speed settings for different materials
Final Thoughts
A combi drill is an essential power tool for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Its versatility, ease of use, and ability to handle multiple tasks make it one of the most popular tools in the UK market.
If you need portability and convenience, a cordless combi drill is the best choice. If power and long working hours matter more, then a corded combi drill will serve you better.
Investing in the right combi drill will save you time, effort, and money in the long run.