BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX POWERCONNECT Cordless Drill Driver - Compact

In this review of the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX POWERCONNECT Cordless Drill Driver, the bottom line is simple: it is a compact, capable drill aimed at homeowners and DIYers who need reliable torque and long battery life for routine jobs. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of useful maximum torque and a POWERCONNECT battery system that keeps the tool running through multiple small projects, making it well suited to furniture assembly, hanging shelves, and general household maintenance.

Key Features

• Maximum Torque: With up to 398 in-lbs (45 Nm) of torque the drill has the muscle to drive screws and bore pilot holes into wood and light masonry without stalling.
• Variable Speed and Clutch: The variable speed trigger and 11 clutch positions provide fine control for countersinking screws and avoiding stripped heads in sensitive materials.
• Two Speed Settings: Speed 1 gives controlled driving performance while Speed 2 switches to higher RPMs for faster drilling through wood and metal when needed.
• Keyless 1/2 in Chuck: The single-sleeve keyless chuck makes bit changes quick and keeps common driver and drill bits secure during use.
• POWERCONNECT Battery System: The included 20V MAX 2.0Ah battery with state-of-charge indicator offers good runtime for typical household tasks and shows remaining charge at a glance.
• Ergonomic Design: The handle and lightweight, compact body reduce user fatigue during repeated tasks and the included belt clip keeps the tool within reach.

Who It's For

This drill is ideal for homeowners, renters, and weekend DIYers who need a lightweight, portable driver that handles furniture assembly, hanging fixtures, mounting shelving, and similar jobs. The combination of torque and clutch settings makes it versatile for a range of materials like wood, plastic, and thin metal.

It is less well suited for heavy trade use or prolonged drilling into dense masonry; professionals or users who need extended continuous runtime for large projects should consider higher-capacity batteries or a more heavy-duty model.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good torque for household jobs while remaining compact and lightweight.
• Long battery life for routine tasks and a clear state-of-charge indicator.
• Precise control from the variable speed trigger and 11-position clutch.
• Convenient keyless 1/2 in chuck and included belt clip improve usability on the job.

Cons

• Some users report durability concerns if the tool sees heavy or professional use.
• The 2.0Ah battery is adequate for many jobs but may require frequent recharges on prolonged projects.

Specifications

Brand	BLACK+DECKER
Model	20V MAX POWERCONNECT Cordless Drill Driver
Maximum Torque	398 in-lbs (45 Nm)
Chuck	Keyless 1/2 in single-sleeve
Speed Settings	2 speed settings
Battery Included	20V MAX 2.0Ah with state-of-charge
Included Accessories	Battery, charger, belt clip

Our Verdict

The BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX POWERCONNECT drill is a strong choice for homeowners and casual DIYers who want a balanced mix of torque, control, and portability. It delivers good value for common household projects thanks to its POWERCONNECT battery and clutch control, though users with heavy trade needs should look to pro-grade, higher-capacity tools.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the kit include a battery and charger?
Yes, the drill ships with a 20V MAX 2.0Ah battery with state-of-charge indicator and a charger.

Is the chuck quick to change bits?
The keyless 1/2 in single-sleeve chuck allows fast, tool-free bit changes for common driver and drill bits.

Will it handle masonry?
It can handle light masonry with the right bit, but repeated heavy masonry drilling is beyond its intended household use.