Power tools sets vary in the number of tools they provide, with some offering as little as two and others containing 10 or more. No matter the number of tools provided, each power tool set typically houses widely used tools like hammers, drills, and reciprocating saws.
Here are our top picks.
Top 6 Power Tool Sets
- Best Entry-Level Set: BLACK+DECKER 20V 4-Tool Set
- Best Drill-Only Tool Set: DEWALT 2-Tool Combo Kit
- Best Battery Life: Makita 7-Piece Cordless Set
- Best Four-Tool Set: PORTER-CABLE Power Tool Combo Kit
- Most Comprehensive: DEWALT 10-Tool Combo Kit
- Best Hybrid Set: BLACK+DECKER Drill and Home Tool Kit
Best Entry-Level Set: BLACK+DECKER 20V 4-Tool Set
Pros and Cons
✔ Included flashlight provides 70 lumens of light and up to 11 hours of runtime✔ Contains a reciprocating saw with a tool-free blade exchange✔ Drill/driver features an 11-position clutch with an LED work light
Compare Top Power Tool Sets
BLACK+DECKER 20V 4-Tool Set
- $199
Prices taken at time of publishing.
This BLACK+DECKER power tool set provides homeowners with an affordable way to tackle small DIY projects around the home by offering essentials like a cordless drill, circular saw, reciprocating saw, and flashlight. It also comes with lithium-ion batteries and a charger.
✘ Does not include a bag or carrying case✘ Several customers said the circular saw had a weak power output
What Customers Are Saying
Most positive reviews focused on the affordability of the product. Many customers also explained that despite the tools’ lightweight construction, they held up against small projects around the home. Critical reviewers took the opposite stance, stating that the tools were too delicate and weak to perform heavy-duty tasks.
Best Drill-Only Tool Set: DEWALT 2-Tool Combo Kit
✔ Impact driver features a bright LED light for added visibility ✔ Contains a compact driver and powerful 300-watt motor ✔ Compatible with any DEWALT 20V MAX battery
DEWALT 2-Tool Combo Kit
- $319
This two-piece set provides homeowners with a pair of quality drills. The included standard drill can harness 300 watts of power, allowing it to stand up to the toughest jobs, while the impact drill offers one-handed loading for quick bit exchanges.
✘ Only includes two tools✘ Hammer drill isn’t as fast as some other models
Many positive reviews praised the set’s power and convenient carrying case. Negative reviews focused on the lifespan of the included 20-volt battery, with many customers complaining that the battery died quickly.
Best Battery Life: Makita 7-Piece Cordless Set
✔ Comes with an integrated charge level indicator that monitors battery level in real-time✔ Includes a battery charger with a built-in fan that keeps batteries cool✔ Variable speed driver drill adjusts to a variety of applications
Makita 7-Piece Cordless Set
- $699
This cordless tool set includes power tools that are backed by an efficient battery. It features a rapid charger that communicates with the battery to control the current and optimize charging speed. Additionally, this set also contains two variable speed drills to customize torque.
✘ Has a higher price point than similar sets✘ Some tools have a low power level for serious DIYers
Many positive reviewers praised the set’s battery life, while other reviewers applauded the value of the tool set and the variety of included tools. Negative reviewers complained about the poor light emission from the included flashlight.
Best Four-Tool Set: PORTER-CABLE Power Tool Combo Kit
✔ The power drill weighs less than 4 pounds to minimize fatigue✔ The compact reciprocating saw offers a tool-free blade change and pivoting shoe✔ The entire set is backed by the manufacturer’s 3-year warranty
PORTER-CABLE Power Tool Combo Kit
- $200
This powerful 20V cordless tool set includes a power drill, a circular saw, a reciprocating saw, and a work light. The long-lasting lithium-ion batteries universally power each tool in this set. In addition to the two battery packs and charger, the set includes a handy carrying bag.
✘ The light weight of the tools felt flimsy to some users✘ Several customers were dissatisfied with the manufacturer’s customer service
The majority of customers who reviewed this power tool combo set were satisfied with the selection of tools, as well as the tools’ overall performance. Happy customers added that each tool was ergonomically designed and felt comfortable in their hands during use. Conversely, customers who gave this tool combo set critical reviews said that the drill chuck had issues holding bits, and that the manufacturer didn’t honor its advertised 3-year warranty.
Most Comprehensive: DEWALT 10-Tool Combo Kit
✔ Contains a large number of tools✔ Has a high-powered grinder capable of 7,000 RPM✔ Comes with two batteries, a charger, and two contractor bags
DEWALT 10-Tool Combo Kit
- $777
This DEWALT Combo Kit is designed for new homeowners who are focused on tackling a variety of DIY projects. The starter kit comes in a heavy-duty contractor bag and comes with 10 items, including power drills, a circular saw, and a battery-powered Bluetooth speaker.
✘ Some included tools are not brushless✘ Some customers felt the leaf blower lacked power
The majority of positive reviews centered around the value of this set. Multiple customers expressed their satisfaction with the product’s price point and effectiveness in helping them complete a variety of home projects. Negative reviews touched on the included battery’s lack of runtime. Additionally, some experienced DIYers expressed their disappointment that the tools weren’t brushless and didn’t adjust their power output based on the required load.
Best Hybrid Set: BLACK+DECKER Drill and Home Tool Kit
✔ The lithium-ion power drill is 35% more compact than the set’s previous version✔ Includes a level to evenly hang pictures and various wall decor✔ The slip joint pliers securely grasp a wide variety of objects around the home
BLACK+DECKER Drill and Home Tool Kit
- $161
This home tool kit features a power drill a small set of bits and attachments to handle a variety of do-it-yourself jobs. Additionally, the kit comes with a tool bag and several manual tools, including a hammer, a pair of pliers, multiple screwdrivers, and an adjustable wrench.
✘ Doesn’t include other power tools besides a drill✘ Over half of the included drill bits are duplicates of themselves, resulting in only 12 unique bits
Although satisfied customers didn’t think that this tool set was suitable for heavy-duty use, they mentioned that it was a reasonably priced set for general household use. Customers who wanted a basic cordless drill and entry-level hand tool set were also pleased with the overall value of this kit. Customers who left critical feedback thought that the quality of the tools was sub-par.
Buying Guide for Power Tool Sets
Before selecting a power tool set, it’s important to understand each set’s included tools, power source, and additional accessories to ensure that you purchase one that matches your needs.
Number of Included Tools
Some power tool sets offer only two tools, while others include 10 or more. While owning a set with numerous power tools is helpful, it’s important to match the included tools with your intent.
If you only need an electric screwdriver, circular saw, and reciprocating saw, look for a power tool set that offers these tools with the least amount of additional items to decrease cost.
Here are some suggestions from the crew of Ask This Old House for tools that new homeowners should have:
Power Source
Power tool sets are either corded or cordless. Cordless sets offer more mobility and the convenience of cross-tool compatible batteries. However, cordless power tools offer less power than similar corded sets and require you to change batteries and charge the tools more frequently.
Build Quality and Longevity
Not all power tools and hand tools are created equal, and that includes those offered in a tool set. Generally, the more expensive the tool set, the higher quality the tools, and the longer they’ll last. However, this isn’t always the case. Look at customer reviews to determine if the tools in the set will hold up and meet your needs. It’s also worth noting that homeowners who want a basic beginner’s power tool set can upgrade in the future.
Additional Accessories
Before selecting a power tool set, consider the additional features each set offers. For example, some power tool sets include an additional battery, a tool bag, or a limited warranty on the tools. There are even a number of models that come with some basic, essential tools.
Frequently Asked Questions About Power Tool Sets
What are brushless tools?
Brushless tools adjust their speed and power to each specific task. For example, a brushless drill increases its speed and power when driving large nails through thick wood and decreases its speed and power for lighter loads. This helps extend the life of the tool and increases battery life.
Which tools need to be included in a power tool set?
The number of tools included in your tool set should be based on preference and need. If you only need to do odd jobs around the house, a simple drill set with a flashlight may be a good choice. However, if you want a comprehensive set for more intense DIY projects, a 10-tool set with included saws, drills, flashlights, and oscillating tools might be a better option.
To learn more about how to select and use a drill set, check out the video below:
What is the advantage of a power tool set?
Power tool combo kits are built with the beginner in mind, offering users a variety of tools with various functionalities. Additionally, many sets come with easy-to-store carrying cases and interchangeable parts for conveniently completing DIY projects.
What are the best brands for power tool sets?
The best brands who sell power tool sets include manufacturers such as CRAFTSMAN, DEWALT, and Makita. Note that whoever makes the power tool set isn’t the most important consideration; make sure to read users’ reviews and understand what’s included in the set to confirm it’ll meet your needs. Other trusted power tool manufacturers include BOSCH, Milwaukee, PORTER-CABLE, BLACK+DECKER, and Ryobi.
Why Trust The This Old House Reviews Team
This Old House has empowered homeowners for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement content in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content on its website and social media platforms. The This Old House Reviews Team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content to help inform your purchasing decision for just about any item or resource that you might need for your home. The This Old House Reviews Team has written over 1,000 reviews on products in the home space, from cordless drills to kitchen trash cans, lawn mowers, and dining room decorations.
