2010 International Builders' Show Product Preview: Rockwell LithiumTech Cordless Tools

Rockwell's new 12-volt LithiumTech drill, $129, is part of the trend toward smaller, lighter tools that can handle more than light-duty jobs.

At only 2.2 pounds, the LithiumTech drill weighs about a pound less than the lightest drill on our list of recommended models and is around 25 percent smaller than a typical cordless drill. Still, claims Rockwell, the drill can deliver power and run time that rival those of larger tools.

The LithiumTech drill comes with two lithium-ion batteries (and a 30-minute charger) that also power an impact driver ($119), screwdriver ($119), a sanding-and-grinding tool ($179), and a three-in-one rotary hammer drill ($179). Rockwell offers free battery replacement for the life of this 12-volt drill.

In our video (right), Bob Markovich, editor of the Consumer Reports Home franchise, looks at the drill and the three-in-one rotary hammer drill. Read more of our 2010 International Builders' Show coverage via our Twitter page, blog posts, and videos.

Essential information: If you need a new cordless drill, see our free buyer's guide to cordless tools and check out our full ratings and listing of recommended models (available to subscribers).