What Tools Should I Buy? The Essential Toolkit for Every Homeowner
Answer four questions about your home projects and get matched to specific tools. No over-buying, no brand loyalty tests -- just the tools you actually need.
Walk into Home Depot and you will find 200 drills, 150 saws, and enough combo kits to fill a warehouse. Most homeowners buy more tool than they need, lock into the wrong battery platform, or skip essential hand tools that cost a fraction of a power tool.
Answer four questions about what you actually do around the house -- repair vs build, frequency, skill level, and budget -- and we will match you to specific tools. No over-buying, no brand tribalism.
Not sure whether you need cordless or corded? Start with our Cordless vs Corded comparison. Want to understand the full cost? See The Real Cost of a Tool Collection. And before you buy, read 5 tool buying mistakes that waste money. Already know what you want? Check when tool prices drop lowest -- Father's Day and Black Friday deliver 20-40% off.
How This Guide Works
We organized recommendations around what you actually do, not around product catalogs. Answer four questions and you will have a clear shopping list without needing to decode model numbers or marketing jargon about brushless motors and amp-hours.
Question 1: What Kind of Projects Do You Do?
Basic Repairs and Maintenance
Tightening screws, hanging pictures, fixing squeaky doors, replacing outlet covers, assembling furniture, minor plumbing adjustments. These tasks need a good hand tool set and a basic cordless drill. Nothing more.
Moderate Home Improvement
Installing shelving, replacing fixtures, painting prep, building simple furniture, replacing hardware, basic drywall work. Add a cordless drill/driver with a decent bit set and a stud finder to the hand tool foundation.
Serious DIY and Building
Building decks, replacing flooring, framing walls, custom woodworking, renovations. You need a full cordless platform: drill, impact driver, circular saw, and an oscillating multi-tool. This is where battery platform choice matters most.
Question 2: How Often Do You Use Tools?
A Few Times a Year
A quality hand tool set and a basic cordless drill are all you need. Do not invest in a full cordless platform -- you will not use it enough to justify the battery degradation cost.
Monthly
A cordless drill/driver kit is the right starting point. Add an impact driver if you find yourself struggling with long screws or lag bolts. The platform investment makes sense at this frequency.
Weekly or More
Invest in a full cordless combo kit and build your platform. The per-tool cost drops significantly with combo kits, and weekly use justifies the battery investment.
Question 3: What Is Your Skill Level?
Complete Beginner
Start with a hand tool set and a simple cordless drill. Ryobi ONE+ is the most beginner-friendly platform -- lower torque settings make it harder to over-drive screws, and the tools are lighter and less intimidating than pro-grade options.
Comfortable with Basics
You can handle a drill, know the difference between a Phillips and a flathead, and have completed a few projects. A drill/impact driver combo kit in the Ryobi or DeWalt platform is your next step.
Experienced DIYer
You have built things, made mistakes, and learned from them. A full combo kit (drill, impact driver, circular saw, reciprocating saw) in the DeWalt or Milwaukee platform gives you the power and precision for advanced projects.
Question 4: What Is Your Budget?
Under $100
Get a quality hand tool set. It is the foundation everything else builds on, and a good set lasts decades. Add a cordless drill kit later when a specific project demands it.
$100 to $300
A cordless drill/driver kit plus a basic hand tool set. This combination handles 90% of homeowner tasks. Ryobi ONE+ kits in this range include two batteries and a charger.
$300 to $600
A cordless combo kit (drill + impact driver, sometimes with a saw) plus a hand tool set. This is the sweet spot for active homeowners who tackle projects regularly.
Over $600
A full cordless platform with specialized tools (oscillating multi-tool, circular saw, reciprocating saw) plus a comprehensive hand tool set. This equips you for almost any home project.
Quick-Match Summary
| Your Profile | Our Pick | Why It Fits |
|---|---|---|
| First toolkit, basics only | WORKPRO Hand Tool Set | 229 pieces, covers all basic home tasks |
| Beginner, need a drill | Ryobi ONE+ Drill/Driver Kit | Budget platform, 300+ compatible tools |
| Regular projects, best value | DeWalt 20V MAX 2-Tool Combo | Drill + impact driver, reliable mid-range |
| Serious DIY, full platform | DeWalt 20V MAX 5-Tool Combo | Drill, impact, circ saw, recip saw, light |
| Maximum power, no compromises | Milwaukee M18 FUEL Combo | Brushless motors, pro-grade for home use |
| Need one versatile tool | DeWalt Oscillating Multi-Tool | Cuts, sands, scrapes, grinds -- one tool |
| Cutting lumber, plywood | DeWalt 20V Circular Saw | Lightweight, clean cuts, same battery |
| Best single drill, any budget | Makita 18V LXT Drill/Driver | Compact, powerful, exceptional build quality |
What We Recommend
Based on our research, these are our top picks. Prices change frequently -- click through to see the latest.
- 1.DeWalt 20V MAX 2-Tool Combo Kit (DCK240C2) -- Homeowners who want a reliable starting point for a cordless tool platform. Regular DIYers who need both drilling and driving capability. Anyone who wants the flexibility to buy at either Home Depot or Lowes.
- 2.Ryobi ONE+ 18V Drill/Driver Kit (PCL206K1) -- First-time tool buyers on a budget. Homeowners who want to start a tool platform affordably. Light-duty tasks: hanging shelves, furniture assembly, basic repairs.
- 3.DeWalt 20V MAX 5-Tool Combo Kit (DCK560D1M1) -- Active DIYers who tackle projects regularly and want to equip a full cordless workshop at the best per-tool price. Homeowners renovating or building.
- 4.WORKPRO 229-Piece Home Tool Set -- Every homeowner, regardless of power tool ownership. First-time home buyers assembling a toolkit from scratch. The essential foundation before adding any power tools.
- 5.Makita 18V LXT Brushless Drill/Driver Kit (XFD131) -- Quality-focused DIYers who want the most refined drill experience. Buyers who value compact size for tight-space work. Makita platform owners expanding their collection.
- 6.Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2-Tool Combo Kit (2997-22) -- Demanding DIYers who tackle heavy projects (deck building, framing, renovation). Buyers who want tools that outlast everything else. Anyone who simply wants the best regardless of price.
- 7.DeWalt 20V MAX Oscillating Multi-Tool (DCS354B) -- Homeowners doing renovation or remodeling work. Anyone who already owns DeWalt 20V MAX batteries and wants to add the most versatile tool to their kit.
- 8.DeWalt 20V MAX Circular Saw (DCS565B) -- Homeowners who need to cut lumber, plywood, or deck boards for building projects. Anyone already in the DeWalt 20V MAX platform who wants to add cutting capability.
DeWalt 20V MAX 2-Tool Combo Kit (DCK240C2)
The combo kit most DIYers should start with. Includes a drill/driver and an impact driver sharing the same 20V MAX battery platform -- the two tools that handle 80% of home projects. DeWalt is sold at both Home Depot and Lowes, giving you flexibility. Compact and lightweight enough for overhead work. Two batteries and a charger included so you always have a charged backup. This kit has been a Wirecutter and This Old House recommendation for years.
Pros
- Includes both drill/driver and impact driver -- the two most-used power tools
- Two 20V MAX batteries and charger included -- always have a backup
- DeWalt 20V MAX platform has 200+ compatible tools for future expansion
- Compact size fits into tight spaces like cabinet interiors and between studs
- Available at both Home Depot and Lowes -- price match between stores
- LED lights on both tools illuminate the work area
Cons
- Batteries are 1.3Ah (compact) -- shorter runtime than higher-capacity options
- Brushed motors, not brushless -- adequate for homeowners but less efficient
- Carrying bag is flimsy -- upgrade to a tool bag separately
- Impact driver can be too powerful for delicate fasteners
Ryobi ONE+ 18V Drill/Driver Kit (PCL206K1)
The best entry point into cordless tools for budget-conscious homeowners. The Ryobi ONE+ platform has the largest ecosystem in the industry -- over 300 tools that share the same battery. Starting here means every future tool purchase is a cheaper bare-tool buy. This Old House and Family Handyman both recommend Ryobi ONE+ as the best value for homeowners. Includes one battery, charger, and a carrying bag.
Pros
- Lowest entry price for a quality cordless drill platform
- Ryobi ONE+ ecosystem has 300+ tools sharing the same battery
- 24-position clutch prevents over-driving screws into soft materials
- Lightweight and compact -- less intimidating for beginners
- LED work light illuminates tight spaces
- Home Depot exclusive with frequent promotional pricing
Cons
- Single battery included -- buy a second battery for uninterrupted work
- Less torque than DeWalt or Milwaukee -- adequate for home use but not heavy-duty
- Brushed motor is less efficient than brushless alternatives
- Home Depot exclusive -- cannot price-match at Lowes
DeWalt 20V MAX 5-Tool Combo Kit (DCK560D1M1)
The kit for homeowners who want a complete cordless workshop in one purchase. Includes drill/driver, impact driver, circular saw, reciprocating saw, and an LED work light -- all sharing 20V MAX batteries. Two batteries (one compact, one extended) provide flexibility between light and heavy tasks. The per-tool cost is dramatically lower than buying each tool separately.
Pros
- Five essential tools in one kit -- best per-tool value available
- Two battery sizes included (2.0Ah + 4.0Ah) for light and heavy tasks
- Circular saw handles plywood, lumber, and trim cuts for most home projects
- Reciprocating saw tackles demolition, pruning, and rough cuts
- LED work light uses the same batteries -- genuinely useful bonus tool
Cons
- Brushed motors across all tools -- not as efficient as brushless
- Circular saw blade is 6-1/2 inch, not full 7-1/4 -- limits depth of cut
- Carrying bag barely fits everything -- invest in a proper tool bag
- Some tools feel like kit-grade rather than individually-purchased quality
WORKPRO 229-Piece Home Tool Set
The hand tool foundation every homeowner needs before buying a single power tool. 229 pieces covering screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, hex keys, a hammer, tape measure, level, utility knife, and a comprehensive socket set. The storage case keeps everything organized. Quality is solid for home use -- not contractor grade, but more than adequate for the tasks homeowners actually do.
Pros
- 229 pieces cover virtually every basic home repair and assembly task
- Organized storage case means you can find the right tool quickly
- Includes screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, hammer, tape measure, level, and more
- Chrome vanadium steel on critical tools (wrenches, sockets) for durability
- Costs less than a single power tool but handles more types of tasks
Cons
- Not professional-grade -- tools may wear under heavy daily use
- Some included pieces are rarely used filler (like tiny hex keys)
- Storage case is bulky -- does not fit in a standard drawer
- No power tools included -- strictly manual hand tools
Makita 18V LXT Brushless Drill/Driver Kit (XFD131)
The drill for buyers who want the best build quality in a compact package. Makita invented the 18V lithium-ion cordless tool category and their engineering shows. The brushless motor delivers more power per charge, runs cooler, and lasts longer than brushed alternatives. Compact at only 7-1/8 inches long -- the shortest in its class. Variable two-speed transmission handles both precision work and high-speed drilling.
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers more torque, longer runtime, and extended motor life
- Most compact drill in its class at 7-1/8 inches -- excels in tight spaces
- Makita 18V LXT platform has 200+ compatible tools
- Variable 2-speed transmission (0-500 / 0-2,000 RPM) for precision and power
- Built-in LED with afterglow illuminates after trigger release
- 3-year warranty on tool, battery, and charger
Cons
- Higher price than Ryobi or base DeWalt for a single drill kit
- Makita has less retail presence than DeWalt or Milwaukee at big-box stores
- 18V LXT batteries are not compatible with newer Makita 40V XGT platform
- Green color aesthetic is polarizing
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2-Tool Combo Kit (2997-22)
The premium option for homeowners who want contractor-grade tools. M18 FUEL brushless motors deliver the most torque in the 18V/20V class. REDLINK PLUS intelligence protects against overloads and over-discharge. This is more tool than most homeowners need, but if you want the best and plan to keep these tools for 15+ years, Milwaukee FUEL is the pinnacle.
Pros
- FUEL brushless motors deliver the highest torque in the 18V/20V class
- REDLINK PLUS electronics protect tool, battery, and user from overloads
- Built for daily professional use -- dramatically overbuilt for home use (which means it lasts forever)
- M18 platform has 250+ tools for comprehensive expansion
- 5.0Ah battery included provides extended runtime
- Home Depot exclusive with frequent promotional bundles
Cons
- Premium pricing -- you pay for contractor-grade quality you may not need
- Heavier than Ryobi or DeWalt equivalents due to larger motors
- M18 platform lock-in at premium prices for every future tool
- Overkill for basic home tasks -- like buying a commercial oven to make toast
DeWalt 20V MAX Oscillating Multi-Tool (DCS354B)
The Swiss Army knife of power tools. An oscillating multi-tool cuts wood, metal, drywall, and grout. It sands surfaces, scrapes adhesive, and grinds mortar. It reaches into corners and flush-cuts against walls where no other saw can go. For homeowners doing renovation work -- removing old flooring, cutting door jambs, or trimming pipe -- this is the tool you did not know you needed until you use it once.
Pros
- Cuts, sands, scrapes, and grinds -- the most versatile single power tool available
- Quick-change blade system swaps accessories without tools
- Flush-cut capability reaches where no circular or reciprocating saw can
- 3-speed selector for material-appropriate performance
- Bare tool pricing -- uses existing DeWalt 20V MAX batteries
- LED light illuminates the cutting area
Cons
- Bare tool only -- battery and charger sold separately (buy if you already own DeWalt 20V)
- Accessory blades wear out and cost $5-$15 each -- ongoing expense
- Not a replacement for a circular saw for long straight cuts
- Vibration during extended use can cause hand fatigue
DeWalt 20V MAX Circular Saw (DCS565B)
A 6-1/2 inch brushless circular saw that handles the cuts most homeowners need: plywood sheets, 2x4 lumber, deck boards, and trim. The brushless motor maximizes runtime per battery charge and cuts clean without bogging down. Lighter and more maneuverable than a full-size 7-1/4 inch saw, which matters when you are working on a ladder or cutting overhead.
Pros
- Brushless motor for maximum efficiency and clean, consistent cuts
- 6-1/2 inch blade handles plywood, 2x lumber, and most home cutting tasks
- Lightweight and compact for one-handed carrying and overhead cuts
- Bare tool pricing -- uses existing DeWalt 20V MAX batteries
- Electric brake stops blade quickly after trigger release for safety
- Bevel capacity to 50 degrees for angled cuts
Cons
- Bare tool only -- requires DeWalt 20V MAX battery (sold separately)
- 6-1/2 inch blade cannot cut through a 4x4 in a single pass (7-1/4 can)
- No laser guide or LED cut line indicator
- Dust collection port is small and clogs with wet sawdust
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first tool every homeowner should buy?
A quality hand tool set. It costs under $100, lasts decades, and handles the majority of household tasks -- hanging pictures, tightening screws, minor plumbing, furniture assembly. Add a cordless drill as your second purchase when a specific project demands it.
Is Ryobi good enough for homeowners?
Yes. Ryobi ONE+ tools are designed specifically for homeowners and DIYers, not contractors. They have the largest tool ecosystem (300+), the lowest prices, and more than enough power for home tasks. The trade-off vs DeWalt or Milwaukee is less torque and less durability under heavy daily use -- which homeowners rarely need.
How many tools do I actually need?
Most homeowners need a hand tool set, a cordless drill/driver, and a stud finder. That covers 90% of home tasks. Add an impact driver and a circular saw if you build things regularly. Everything beyond that is project-specific.
Should I buy DeWalt or Milwaukee?
For homeowners, DeWalt 20V MAX offers the best balance of power, price, and availability. Milwaukee M18 is more powerful but costs more and is overkill for most home projects. Both are excellent -- the difference only matters for contractors doing heavy daily use.
What is a brushless motor and do I need it?
Brushless motors are more efficient, last longer, and deliver more power per battery charge than brushed motors. They cost more. For homeowners, brushless is a nice upgrade but not essential. If your budget is tight, a brushed motor drill works fine for home tasks.
Not sure where to start?
Follow the path that matches where you are in your decision. Each guide builds on the last.
You can start at any stage. Each article stands on its own, but reading in order gives you the full picture. Want to know when prices drop? See our Best Time to Buy Tools pricing calendar.
Continue Reading
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