I remember starting my first DIY project and realizing my toolbox was embarrassingly empty. Buying individual tools was incredibly expensive, which is why finding a reliable, best cheap power tool set is crucial for anyone starting out. I’ve spent time researching and testing these budget-friendly combos to see which ones deliver genuine quality and value. Whether you need a simple starter kit or a full arsenal of affordable tools for bigger projects, this guide breaks down the top picks so you can get building without draining your wallet.
Contents
- Tool Kit with 21V Cordless Drill – Sundpey 255-PCs Portable Complete General Basic Home and Auto Repair Tool Set with Drawer for Handyman & Diyer & Homeowner – Power Drill with 2 x 2.0Ah Batteries
- PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX 8-Tool Combo Kit Cordless Drill and Impact Driver, Circular and Reciprocation Saw, Jigsaw, Orbital Sander, Oscillating Tool, Flashlight (PCCK6118)
- DEWALT 20V MAX Power Tool Combo Kit, 9-Tool Cordless Power Tool Set with 2 Batteries and Charger (DCK940D2)
- DEKOPRO Drill Set, Home Tool Set with 8V Pink Cordless Drill, Hand Tool Kit for Women, 126 pcs
- Power Drill Cordless: DEKO PRO Cordless Drill 20V Electric Power Drills Set Tool Drills Cord-less Set with Battery and Charger
- Comparison Insights: Finding the Right Value
- Final Verdict: Which Budget Tool Set Should You Buy?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing the Best Cheap Power Tool Set
- What defines a “cheap” power tool set, and are they reliable?
- Should I choose a kit with hand tools or just power tools?
- Is an 8V drill (like the DEKOPRO Pink) powerful enough for DIY projects?
- How important is battery life when buying a budget cordless set?
- Do budget tool sets come with good warranties?
- What’s the main difference between 20V and 21V power tool kits?
Tool Kit with 21V Cordless Drill – Sundpey 255-PCs Portable Complete General Basic Home and Auto Repair Tool Set with Drawer for Handyman & Diyer & Homeowner – Power Drill with 2 x 2.0Ah Batteries
If you’re looking to fill an empty toolbox completely, the Sundpey 255-piece kit is an incredible value proposition. This set covers not just basic drilling needs but also a huge variety of common household repairs and assembly tasks. It’s truly an all-in-one solution for homeowners and DIYers who need every wrench, plier, and hammer immediately. The standout feature is the inclusion of a capable 21V drill and two rechargeable batteries, ensuring you always have power when you need it.
Key features that stand out:
– Massive Tool Count: Includes 255 pieces covering hand tools, sockets, and various drill bits.
– 21V Cordless Drill: Features two speed gears (up to 1350 rpm) and 18+1 torque adjustments, suitable for wood, plastic, and light metal.
– Dual Batteries: Comes standard with two 2.0Ah rechargeable Lithium-ion batteries for continuous use.
– Organization: Everything is neatly packed in a sturdy, organized case with drawers.
Pros:
– Excellent value for the sheer volume of tools provided.
– Includes useful extras like a Rip Claw Hammer and various drill bit sets (Twist, Wood, Flat).
– Dual batteries minimize downtime during longer projects.
– Great starter kit for new homeowners who have zero existing tools.
Cons:
– The quality of the hand tools, while functional, isn’t professional grade.
Best for: The new homeowner or apartment dweller needing a complete, single-purchase setup for basic assembly and emergency repairs.
Expert Opinion: This set is a fantastic option if you prioritize accessory quantity over the brand name. The 21V drill is surprisingly competent for general tasks like hanging shelving or assembling furniture, and the sheer number of included fasteners and specialty bits makes it highly functional right out of the box.
PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX 8-Tool Combo Kit Cordless Drill and Impact Driver, Circular and Reciprocation Saw, Jigsaw, Orbital Sander, Oscillating Tool, Flashlight (PCCK6118)
When your cheap tool kit needs to focus exclusively on power tools, Porter-Cable offers amazing bang for your buck. This 8-tool combo kit provides a full cordless system built around the versatile 20V MAX platform. You get the essential drill/driver and impact driver, plus four different saws and specialty tools like the orbital sander and oscillating tool. This kit instantly equips you to tackle framing, demolition, flooring, and intricate trimming work—a huge upgrade from basic household sets.
Key features that stand out:
– Comprehensive Cordless System: Includes 8 essential power tools, not just hand tools.
– Powerful Core Tools: The Impact Driver delivers 1,450 in-lbs of torque, ideal for driving long screws quickly.
– Versatile Saws: Features a Reciprocating Saw (Sawzall style), Circular Saw (3,700 RPM), and Jigsaw.
– Specialty Tools: Orbital Sander and Oscillating Tool are included for finishing work and tricky cuts.
Pros:
– Provides a full suite of specialized tools for various construction and renovation tasks.
– Utilizes the reliable and expansive PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX battery platform.
– Circular saw features a 5-1/2 inch blade and a 50-degree beveling shoe.
– Excellent value for the variety of high-demand tools included.
Cons:
– Batteries and charger are typically sold separately or only one battery is included in the base package.
Best for: Intermediate DIYers or hobbyists ready to transition into major home renovations and wood projects.
Expert Opinion: Porter-Cable sits comfortably in the dependable budget category. While these aren’t the most powerful tools on the market, they are certainly robust enough to handle demanding weekend projects, making this combo one of the best ways to acquire a complete power tool system cheaply.
DEWALT 20V MAX Power Tool Combo Kit, 9-Tool Cordless Power Tool Set with 2 Batteries and Charger (DCK940D2)
If “cheap” means maximizing quality and durability without crossing into premium price territory, the DEWALT 9-Tool Combo Kit is the champion. DeWalt is renowned for reliable professional tools, and this 20V MAX set gives you serious performance upgrades over entry-level brands. The tools are optimized for comfort, speed, and sustained use, featuring keyless blade changes and superior power output. This is a crucial investment for anyone who plans on using their tools frequently for tough jobs.
Key features that stand out:
– High-Performance Core: DCD771 Drill Driver delivers 300 UWO (Unit Watts Out), providing excellent drilling capability.
– Professional Impact Driver: The DCF885 Impact Driver includes 3 surrounding LED lights for shadow-free visibility.
– Quick-Change Systems: Features keyless blade clamps on the reciprocating saw and quick-change accessory system on the oscillating tool.
– Robust Saws: The circular saw can cut a 2×4 at a 45-degree angle in a single pass.
Pros:
– Superior build quality and expected lifespan compared to generic brands.
– Excellent ergonomics and power suitable for professional or heavy amateur use.
– The 20V MAX battery ecosystem is vast and easily expandable.
– Tools feature better sightlines and convenience features (like the impact driver lights).
Cons:
– It’s the most expensive option on this “cheap” list, representing a premium budget choice.
Best for: Serious DIYers, contractors, or tradespeople apprentices who need guaranteed reliability and superior power in a complete kit.
Expert Opinion: You are paying slightly more upfront, but you are buying into the DeWalt legacy of durability. The superior motors and battery efficiency mean these tools will last longer and handle tougher materials better than their competitors in the basic budget category.
DEKOPRO Drill Set, Home Tool Set with 8V Pink Cordless Drill, Hand Tool Kit for Women, 126 pcs
This DEKOPRO set is designed specifically for portability, aesthetic appeal, and tackling very small, light-duty household tasks. Featuring a recognizable pink color scheme, this 126-piece kit is built around a super lightweight 8V cordless drill. The 8V power level is perfect for delicate work like assembling flat-pack furniture, hanging pictures, or working on electronics, where you don’t need or want the brute force of a 20V system. It’s a fantastic, functional gift option or a handy small kit for apartment living.
Key features that stand out:
– Ultra-Lightweight 8V Drill: Only 1.65 pounds, making it easy to maneuver one-handed for quick tasks.
– Type-C Charging: The drill can be charged using a common Type-C cable, increasing convenience.
– Designed for Small Fixes: Includes four precision screwdrivers for electronics and appliances.
– Complete Basic Hand Tool Kit: Contains a claw hammer, adjustable wrench, tape measure, and utility knife.
Pros:
– Ideal weight and power for those needing minimal torque control (e.g., assembling IKEA furniture).
– Unique pink aesthetic makes it an appealing gift.
– Type-C charging is highly convenient.
– The plastic case keeps everything securely organized.
Cons:
– The 8V drill lacks the power necessary for drilling into masonry or dense hardwoods.
Best for: Students, apartment dwellers, electronic hobbyists, or as a convenient, aesthetically pleasing gift for minor household maintenance.
Expert Opinion: Don’t underestimate the utility of an 8V drill—it prevents stripping screws on delicate items, which a powerful 20V unit can do easily. This set excels in convenience and basic assembly tasks, proving that not every job requires heavy-duty power.
Power Drill Cordless: DEKO PRO Cordless Drill 20V Electric Power Drills Set Tool Drills Cord-less Set with Battery and Charger
For buyers prioritizing maximum drilling power at the absolute lowest price point, the DEKO PRO 20V set delivers exactly what you need: a powerful core tool. This set focuses almost entirely on the drill/driver itself, providing the tool, a 20V 1.5Ah battery, charger, and a basic selection of bits. It’s incredibly lightweight at 2.5 pounds but still manages to pack 20V performance with two variable speeds up to 1350 rpm, making it perfect for those who just need a reliable driver for wood and plastic immediately.
Key features that stand out:
– True 20V Power: Delivers sufficient torque and speed for general household drilling and driving tasks.
– Extremely Lightweight: At just 2.5 pounds, it reduces user fatigue significantly.
– Variable Speed Control: Features two gears (0-350/0-1350 rpm) and 18+1 torque settings for precision.
– Simple, Effective Set: Contains only the essentials (drill, battery, charger, bits) to keep costs down.
Pros:
– One of the most affordable ways to get into a 20V cordless system.
– Compact design enhances maneuverability in tight spaces.
– Variable speed and adjustable torque settings allow for controlled driving.
– Adequate power for most common DIY projects.
Cons:
– The included battery is small (1.5Ah), so battery life is limited for heavy work.
Best for: The shopper on a tight budget who primarily needs a drill/driver and isn’t concerned with extra saws or hand tools.
Expert Opinion: This set is the definition of budget functionalism. It sacrifices quantity (no extra hand tools) for quality power, making it a great entry point into 20V systems. Just be prepared to buy a second battery if you plan on extended use.
Comparison Insights: Finding the Right Value
When looking at the best cheap power tool set, the most important insight is determining whether you need a comprehensive hand tool kit with a drill, or a comprehensive power tool system.
The Sundpey and DEKOPRO Pink sets are geared toward the first category: they provide hundreds of accessories and hand tools needed for assembling furniture and small fixes, making them perfect for starting from scratch. However, the Sundpey drill (21V) is much more powerful than the ultra-light DEKOPRO Pink drill (8V).
In contrast, the PORTER-CABLE and DEWALT sets are power tool systems. Porter-Cable offers the best overall versatility with 8 different specialized power tools (saws, sander, etc.) at a great mid-budget price. DeWalt, while still budget-friendly in this context, offers the highest quality and durability for serious, long-term DIY work.
The DEKO PRO 20V set stands out as the best budget entry point if your only requirement is a capable, simple cordless drill/driver.
Final Verdict: Which Budget Tool Set Should You Buy?
Choosing the right kit comes down to your primary use case. Here are my top recommendations based on specific user needs:
For the New Homeowner (The All-In-One Kit):
Go with the Sundpey 255-PCs Tool Kit. It’s the ultimate starter pack, providing a surprisingly powerful 21V drill along with every essential hand tool, socket, and bit you need to tackle common repair, maintenance, and assembly tasks on day one.
For the Major Renovation DIYer (The Versatility King):
Select the PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX 8-Tool Combo Kit. When you need reciprocating saws, circular saws, and sanders to tear things down and build them back up, this comprehensive 8-tool cordless system provides the best variety of specialized power tools for the price.
For the Quality-Conscious User (The Best Investment):
If your budget stretches a little further and you need tools that will last for years of demanding use, choose the DEWALT 20V MAX Power Tool Combo Kit. DeWalt guarantees professional-grade reliability and better ergonomics, offering the most robust performance on this list.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing the Best Cheap Power Tool Set
What defines a “cheap” power tool set, and are they reliable?
Generally, a “cheap” power tool set falls into the budget category (often under $300 for a large multi-tool kit or under $100 for a core drill/driver set). While they use less expensive components than professional-grade tools, many contemporary budget sets—like those utilizing the 20V lithium-ion standard—are surprisingly reliable for typical homeowner projects and routine maintenance. Reliability largely depends on matching the tool’s capability (e.g., 8V vs. 20V) to the complexity of the task.
Should I choose a kit with hand tools or just power tools?
This depends on your existing collection. If you are starting from scratch and need a hammer, measuring tape, and screwdrivers, a hybrid kit like the Sundpey set offers tremendous value. If you already have basic tool maintenance accessories and are focused on major construction, opt for a pure power tool system like the Porter-Cable or DeWalt kits, which include specialized saws and drivers.
Is an 8V drill (like the DEKOPRO Pink) powerful enough for DIY projects?
An 8V drill is perfectly suited for light-duty projects such as furniture assembly, installing curtains, removing battery covers on toys, or hanging small pictures. Its lower torque prevents you from stripping screws on delicate surfaces. However, it is not powerful enough for drilling large holes into studs, masonry, or dense hardwoods; for those tasks, you need a 20V or 21V tool.
How important is battery life when buying a budget cordless set?
Battery life is crucial, especially in budget kits where the included batteries often have lower Amp-hour (Ah) ratings (e.g., 1.5Ah). If you plan on sustained use (more than 30 minutes of continuous drilling or sawing), look for a set that includes dual batteries (like the Sundpey kit) or be prepared to purchase an extra battery. Higher Ah batteries offer longer runtimes, but they usually cost more.
Do budget tool sets come with good warranties?
Most budget brands offer a limited warranty, often 1 to 2 years, covering manufacturing defects. Brands like DeWalt and Porter-Cable generally offer slightly longer and more robust warranty protections. Always check the specific warranty details, as this reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s longevity.
What’s the main difference between 20V and 21V power tool kits?
The practical difference in power output between 20V and 21V is usually negligible in the budget category. Most tool manufacturers use “20V Max” or “21V Max” to refer to the peak voltage achieved when the battery is fully charged. Functionally, a 20V or 21V tool will provide the necessary power for standard medium-duty DIY construction tasks like framing, deck building, and drilling into thicker materials.
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this site.





