Choosing the best drill for drywall is crucial for any home improvement enthusiast or professional contractor looking to achieve perfect installations. A dedicated drywall screw gun or a versatile cordless drill with the right attachments can make all the difference in speed, precision, and the overall finish of your project. Unlike standard drills, specialized drywall tools are designed with features like adjustable depth settings and high RPMs to ensure screws are driven to the ideal depth without damaging the drywall or stripping the screw head. This guide will walk you through our top picks, highlighting their key features and why they stand out in the market.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Drill For Drywall Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. The DEWALT 20V Drywall Screwgun: A Top Cordless Choice for Seamless Drywall Projects (Tool Only)
The DEWALT 20V Drywall Screwgun (DCF620B) stands out as a top contender for those seeking cordless convenience and professional-grade performance in drywall installation. Engineered with a powerful brushless motor, this tool delivers efficient operation and extended runtime, making it ideal for large projects. Its thoughtful design prioritizes user comfort and precise screw driving, minimizing fatigue and ensuring consistent results.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Brushless Motor: Provides superior efficiency and longer runtime, reducing maintenance.
- ✓ Wide Variable Speed Range: Features dedicated High and Low settings for optimized use in various substrate types.
- ✓ Four Dedicated Tool Modes: Offers versatility with Trigger Mode (High Speed), Trigger Mode (Low Speed), PushStart Mode, and Lock-On Mode.
- ✓ Depth-Sensitive Nosepiece: Ensures consistent fastener depth for a flawless finish without breaking the paper.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the DEWALT 20V Drywall Screwgun for its exceptional balance of power, precision, and cordless freedom. The brushless motor ensures you can tackle extensive drywall work without constant battery swaps, while the multiple operational modes adapt to any task. Its ease of use and consistent results make it a favorite for both pros and serious DIYers.
Best For
This tool is best for professional contractors and serious DIY enthusiasts who frequently undertake large-scale drywall installation projects and prioritize cordless convenience and precise depth control.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cordless design offers maximum mobility and convenience.
- Brushless motor provides extended runtime and durability.
- Precise depth adjustment ensures consistent screw seating.
- Multiple operational modes enhance versatility for different tasks.
Cons:
- Sold as “tool only,” requiring separate purchase of batteries and charger.
- Higher initial investment compared to basic corded drills.
- May be considered overkill for very small, infrequent drywall repairs.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great drywall gun. No complaints. Been using for a year now and never fails.”
Customer Review: “Bought this to finish a big drywall job as I got tired of the regular sinker bits. Dewalt did an outstanding job with this tool. It drives the screws really well and sinks them perfect, even on a slight angle. The depth adjustment is great and simple to use and it’s also noteworthy that you can trust its consistent performance.”
2. Milwaukee M18 2866-20 Drywall Screw Gun: The Ultimate Tool for Drywall Installation
The Milwaukee M18 2866-20 Drywall Screw Gun is a powerhouse designed for maximum productivity and efficiency in drywall installation. Featuring Milwaukee’s signature POWERSTATE Brushless Motor, it delivers exceptional speed and runtime. Its innovative Auto Start Mode significantly enhances user experience by only engaging the motor when the screw makes contact with the drywall, leading to quieter operation and extended battery life. This tool is built to withstand the rigors of daily professional use.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ POWERSTATE Brushless Motor: Delivers 4,500 RPMs for faster than corded productivity.
- ✓ Auto Start Mode: Keeps the trigger locked on with the motor off, engaging only when the screw contacts the drywall for energy savings and reduced noise.
- ✓ Excellent Battery Performance: M18 REDLITHIUM XC5.0 battery pack delivers an impressive 64 sheets per charge.
- ✓ Precise Depth Adjustment: Allows for consistent and accurate screw sinking every time.
Why We Recommend It
For professionals seeking the ultimate cordless drywall screw gun, the Milwaukee M18 2866-20 is an unparalleled choice. Its high RPM combined with the intelligent Auto Start mode ensures rapid, consistent, and fatigue-free work. The exceptional battery life means less downtime and more productivity on the job site, cementing its status as an Editor’s Choice.
Best For
Ideal for professional drywall installers and large commercial projects where speed, endurance, and consistent performance are paramount, especially for users already invested in the Milwaukee M18 battery system.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior speed and productivity with 4,500 RPM brushless motor.
- Auto Start mode conserves battery and reduces noise.
- Outstanding runtime on a single battery charge.
- Robust build quality ensures long-term durability.
Cons:
- Premium price point may be a barrier for some users.
- Batteries and charger are typically sold separately.
- Designed specifically for drywall, limiting its versatility for other tasks.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This Milwaukee drywall screw gun is a game-changer. The auto-start feature is incredibly efficient, saving battery and my ears. I can hang drywall all day without missing a beat. Highly recommend for serious work.”
Customer Review: “As a professional, I rely on my tools to perform. The M18 2866-20 does not disappoint. The power is consistent, and the depth control is spot on every time. It’s built like a tank and handles heavy use without a problem.”
3. DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver, Power Tool Combo Kit, Includes 2 Batteries, Cha…
While not a dedicated drywall screw gun, the DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit (DCK240C2) offers an outstanding value for those on a budget or needing a versatile tool for various home projects, including drywall. The DCD771 drill features a two-speed transmission and delivers ample power for driving screws. Its compact, lightweight design makes it easy to handle in tight spaces, and the inclusion of two batteries and a charger right out of the box makes it an excellent starter kit.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Two-Speed Transmission (0-450 / 0-1500 RPM): Offers versatility for drilling and driving applications.
- ✓ High-Performance Motor: Delivers 300 Unit Watts Out (UWO) of power, suitable for a wide range of tasks.
- ✓ Compact & Lightweight Design: Easily fits into tight areas and reduces user fatigue during extended use.
- ✓ Complete Combo Kit: Includes both a drill and an impact driver, along with two batteries and a charger for immediate use.
Why We Recommend It
For budget-conscious DIYers or those needing a general-purpose tool that can also handle drywall tasks, this DEWALT combo kit is highly recommended. While it requires a separate drywall screw setting bit for proper depth control, its overall power, portability, and value package make it an excellent choice for occasional drywall work and a multitude of other projects around the house.
Best For
This kit is best for DIYers and homeowners who need a versatile tool set for general household repairs and occasional drywall installation, offering great value without investing in a specialized screw gun.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value as a 2-tool combo kit with batteries and charger.
- Versatile for general drilling, driving, and basic drywall tasks.
- Compact and lightweight for easy handling in various situations.
- Dependable DEWALT quality and strong motor performance.
Cons:
- Not a dedicated drywall screw gun, lacking specialized depth-sensing nosepiece.
- Requires a separate drywall bit adapter for consistent screw depth.
- Less efficient for very high-volume drywall installation compared to specialized tools.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Very happy with this twin pack. The portable drill has features that I haven’t discovered or mastered. But right out of the bag, the drill and the impact driver reveal the renowned quality and performance. I like the size, power, and convenience. Each has a light that helps with accurate work and precise screw placement.”
Customer Review: “Solid, dependable, and good value. My workplace needs good tools – so I’m buying more of the MAX series for my team. They’re reliable for everyday tasks, including light drywall work with the right bit.”
4. DEWALT 6.0-Amp Drywall Screw Gun is the Best Corded Drill for Drywall Work.
For those who prefer reliable, continuous power without worrying about battery life, the DEWALT 6.0-Amp Drywall Screw Gun (DW272) is an excellent corded option. This tool is designed specifically for production drywall hanging, featuring a robust 6.0-Amp motor and a high speed of 5,300 RPM to get the job done quickly. Its depth-sensitive “set and forget” nosepiece ensures perfectly consistent fastener depth every single time, making it a staple on many job sites.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Depth-Sensitive “Set and Forget” Nosepiece: Guarantees consistent fastener depth, eliminating guesswork and drywall damage.
- ✓ Powerful 6.0-Amp Motor: Provides reliable and continuous power for demanding applications.
- ✓ High Speed 5,300 RPM: Delivers rapid screw driving for efficient production drywall hanging.
- ✓ Two-Finger Trigger: Enhances comfort and reduces fatigue during extended periods of use.
Why We Recommend It
If you’re tackling extensive drywall projects and power outages or battery drainage are concerns, the DEWALT 6.0-Amp Drywall Screw Gun offers unwavering performance. Its corded design provides consistent torque and speed, while the proven depth adjustment system ensures professional results. It’s a workhorse built for efficiency and reliability.
Best For
This corded drywall screw gun is best for professional contractors or serious DIYers who need continuous, high-volume performance for large drywall projects and prefer the consistent power of a corded tool.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Consistent power and speed without battery concerns.
- High RPM for rapid and efficient screw driving.
- Reliable “set and forget” nosepiece ensures perfect depth every time.
- Durable construction for long-term heavy-duty use.
Cons:
- Corded design limits mobility and requires proximity to power outlets.
- Can be cumbersome to manage the power cord on large job sites.
- Less convenient for quick, small repairs compared to cordless models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “What I really like about this ‘used like new’ Dewalt drywall screw gun is that it takes the relatively inexpensive and fairly readily available reduced tip phillips #2 bits which fit a drywall screw dead on perfect. The tip is held in by an internal spring ring that grabs the indents on the bit. The depth consistency is fantastic.”
Customer Review: “This drywall drill driver has been a fantastic addition to my toolbox. I would not have been able to complete any of my sheetrock work properly without it. The consistency and speed this tool provides at this price point is outstanding, making long jobs much easier.”
5. Makita XSF03Z: The Best 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Screwdriver for Drywall Installation
The Makita XSF03Z 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Screwdriver is engineered for precise and efficient drywall installation, offering Makita’s renowned reliability and innovative features. Its BL Brushless Motor delivers impressive RPMs while running cooler and more efficiently, extending tool life and battery runtime. A standout feature is the Push Drive Technology, which conserves battery power and creates a quieter work environment by only engaging the motor when the fastener is engaged with the material.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ BL Brushless Motor: Delivers 0-4,000 RPM for various drywall and framing applications, with enhanced efficiency.
- ✓ Push Drive Technology: Motor starts only when the fastener is engaged, leading to quieter operation and significant battery savings.
- ✓ Integrated LED Light: Illuminates the work area for improved visibility, especially in dimly lit spaces.
- ✓ Adjustable Depth Setting: Ensures screws are consistently driven to the optimal depth without damaging drywall surfaces.
Why We Recommend It
The Makita XSF03Z is a fantastic option for anyone seeking a high-performance, battery-efficient drywall screw gun. Its innovative Push Drive Technology truly sets it apart, offering a more comfortable and quieter working experience while maximizing battery life. The brushless motor ensures long-term reliability and consistent power, making it a smart investment for frequent drywall work.
Best For
This screwdriver is ideal for professionals and dedicated DIYers who value quiet operation, extended battery life, and precise control for seamless drywall installation, especially those already using Makita’s 18V LXT battery platform.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Push Drive Technology significantly extends battery life and reduces noise.
- Efficient BL Brushless Motor offers higher torque and longer tool life.
- Ergonomic and lightweight design reduces user fatigue.
- Accurate depth adjustment provides clean, consistent finishes.
Cons:
- Tool-only purchase requires separate acquisition of batteries and charger.
- Specialized nature means less versatility for general drilling tasks.
- Can be a higher investment if not already part of the Makita 18V LXT system.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I always figured what can this thing do that a regular drill can’t? Well the answer is that it can’t do anything a regular drill can’t. It only does one thing, but it does it a lot faster and better than a regular drill. A true one trick pony, but it does a pretty darn good trick.”
Customer Review: “The Push Drive feature is simply genius. It makes a huge difference in battery life, and working in a quiet environment is a huge bonus. Makita quality shines through; it’s lightweight, powerful, and consistently drives screws perfectly flush. My new favorite for drywall.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Drill For Drywall
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting the best drill for drywall, several factors come into play beyond just the brand name. We meticulously evaluate these aspects to ensure our recommendations stand up to real-world demands:
- Type of Tool: Dedicated drywall screw guns are purpose-built for consistent screw depth and speed, often featuring specialized nosepieces and high RPMs. Standard drills or impact drivers can be adapted with drywall dimpler bits, but they offer less precision and speed for large projects.
- Corded vs. Cordless: Cordless drywall drills offer unparalleled mobility and convenience, especially on large job sites without easy access to power outlets. However, they rely on battery life. Corded drywall screw guns provide continuous, consistent power without downtime for charging, ideal for extensive, long-duration work.
- Motor Type: Brushless motors are increasingly common in higher-end cordless tools. They are more efficient, run cooler, and have a longer lifespan compared to brushed motors, translating to better battery runtime and tool durability.
- RPM and Torque: For drywall, a higher RPM (revolutions per minute) is generally preferred for quick screw driving. Torque is less critical than for heavy-duty drilling but still important for driving through tougher materials.
- Depth Adjustment: This is arguably the most critical feature for drywall. A reliable, easy-to-adjust depth-setting nosepiece ensures screws are driven to the perfect depth—just below the surface, without breaking the paper or stripping the screw head.
- Ergonomics and Weight: Drywall installation can be physically demanding. A lightweight, well-balanced tool with a comfortable grip will significantly reduce fatigue during extended use.
- Features like Auto-Start: Advanced features such as “Push Drive” or “Auto Start” (where the motor only engages upon contact with the material) enhance battery life, reduce noise, and improve overall user experience.
Budget Planning
Your budget will significantly influence your choice of drywall drill. Entry-level options, often standard drills with dimpler bits, can range from $50-$150. These are suitable for occasional use or small repairs. Mid-range dedicated corded drywall screw guns typically fall between $100-$250, offering professional performance without the battery investment. High-end cordless drywall screw guns with brushless motors and advanced features can cost $200-$400+ (tool only), with additional costs for batteries and chargers. Consider your frequency of use and project scale when allocating your budget. Investing in a quality tool will save you time and frustration in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right drill for drywall involves balancing precision, power, and convenience with your specific project needs and budget. A dedicated drywall screw gun, whether corded or cordless, will always offer superior performance for extensive work due to its specialized features. However, a versatile cordless drill can be a viable budget-friendly option for smaller jobs when paired with the correct accessories. Prioritize models with reliable depth adjustment, comfortable ergonomics, and sufficient power for efficiency and professional results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a drywall screw gun and a regular drill?
A: A drywall screw gun is specifically designed for installing drywall screws. Its primary feature is a depth-sensitive nosepiece that automatically sets screws to the perfect depth—just below the paper surface—without over-driving or stripping. Regular drills, while versatile, lack this precise depth control, requiring more skill to avoid damaging the drywall or breaking screw heads.
Q: Can I use a regular drill for drywall installation?
A: Yes, you can use a regular drill or an impact driver for drywall installation, but it requires more finesse and typically a specialized drywall dimpler bit. Without the automatic depth clutch of a screw gun, it’s easier to over-drive screws (tearing the paper) or under-drive them (leaving screw heads proud), leading to a less professional finish and more rework.
Q: Are cordless drywall screw guns as powerful as corded ones?
A: Modern cordless drywall screw guns, especially those with brushless motors, offer comparable power and speed to corded models for most drywall applications. The main trade-offs are battery runtime (which has greatly improved) and the initial cost of batteries and chargers. For sheer continuous, non-stop power over very long projects, corded models still have a slight edge, but cordless convenience often outweighs this.
Q: What RPM is ideal for a drywall drill?
A: For efficient drywall installation, an RPM range of 0-4,000 to 0-5,300 is ideal. Higher RPMs allow for faster screw driving, which is crucial for productivity on large projects. Many specialized drywall screw guns offer variable speed settings within this range to accommodate different materials and user preferences.
Q: How do I choose between a corded and cordless drywall screw gun?
A: Choose a cordless drywall screw gun if mobility, working in areas without power outlets, and minimizing tripping hazards are priorities. They’re great for general contractors and DIYers valuing flexibility. Opt for a corded drywall screw gun if you consistently tackle very large projects, prioritize continuous power without battery concerns, and have easy access to electrical outlets.
Selecting the best drill for drywall is a critical step towards achieving professional-grade results on your projects. Whether you prioritize the unmatched precision of a dedicated screw gun like the DEWALT 20V Drywall Screwgun or Milwaukee M18, the versatility of a combo kit like the DEWALT 20V MAX, or the continuous power of a corded option like the DEWALT 6.0-Amp Drywall Screw Gun, there’s a perfect tool for your needs. Consider your project scale, frequency of use, and budget carefully. Invest in quality, and you’ll save time and effort while ensuring a flawless finish. Ready to upgrade your toolkit? Click on the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons to find the best deals and start your next drywall project with confidence!
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
