Best for fast drilling and most screwdriving. Lithium-ion and nickel-metal-hydride models tend to perform better; NiCd models are fine for most.

But some drills lack the power to effectively turn stuck screws and large bolts in dense wood. Models with the most twisting power, or torque, also tend to twist in your hands.

Price $50 to $300 for most.

Best for driving and loosening long or stuck fasteners. Most can handle car-wheel lug nuts and other tough tasks without twisting in your hands.

But all we tested require hearing protection. They also drill more slowly than most cordless drills and require special hex-shank bits for drilling holes.

Price $130 to $250 for most.

Best for very light tasks in tight spaces. They're small enough to fit in a pocket and weigh about 1 pound or less. Lithium-ion batteries in some are supposed to hold a battery charge for as long as 18 months.

But models we tested made an unimpressive showing; both were weak, slow, and shy on run time.

Price $80 to $160 for most.