A cordless drill is the most versatile tool in the shop, and the right bits let it live up to that promise. The best drill bits for cordless drills are round-shank HSS twist bits with a self-centring point that starts quickly and sips battery power rather than draining it. Match them well and one charge takes you through a full afternoon of drilling.
What to Look For
Cordless drills use a keyless three-jaw chuck that grips round shanks, so nearly any standard bit fits. Because you are working from a battery instead of the wall, efficiency matters more than it does with a corded tool: a sharp, correctly ground point cuts with less pressure, which means less current draw and longer runtime per charge. A dull or poorly ground bit forces the motor to work harder, generates heat, and empties the pack fast. Choose bits sized for your chuck capacity, which on most cordless drills accepts up to a 3/8″ or 1/2″ shank, and keep the range broad so you are never forced to make a smaller hole work.
The Best Type of Bit
General-purpose HSS twist bits with a 135° split point are the ideal all-rounder for cordless drilling. They handle wood, plastic and mild steel, start without a centre punch, and require modest feed pressure your battery can sustain across many holes.
- Steel: HSS covers the widest range of everyday household and shop materials in one bit.
- Point: a 135° split point self-starts and reduces walking, so you waste less battery repositioning.
- Coating: black oxide lowers friction and heat so bits run cooler and last longer.
- Format: a graduated set keeps the exact size on hand for any job that comes up.
Why a Set Beats Buying One at a Time
Cordless drills are grab-and-go tools, so you rarely know in advance what size you will need. A well-organised drill bit set running from 1/16″ up through 1/2″, often stepped in 1/64″ or one-millimetre increments, means you always have a match instead of rounding to whatever is in the drawer. A set also spreads wear across many bits rather than dulling one favourite, and the case keeps each size protected and easy to find. For a homeowner or a tradesperson, a single quality set answers the majority of drilling jobs.
Getting the Most From Your Battery
Let the bit do the cutting rather than leaning on it. High speed with light pressure works for wood, while metal wants slower speed and steady, firm force so the edge shears cleanly instead of rubbing. Backing off when the bit is about to break through prevents grabbing and preserves both the workpiece and your charge. A drop of cutting oil in metal keeps the edge cool and extends bit life. Our American-made HSS bits hold their edge through repeated use, so your cordless drill keeps cutting clean, round holes long after bargain bits go dull.