A brushed drill is one of the most common and affordable types of power drill. It uses an older but reliable motor design that’s been around for decades. In this guide, you’ll learn what a brushed drill is, how it works, and whether it’s the right choice for your DIY projects.
What Is a Brushed Drill?
A brushed drill is a power drill that uses a traditional brushed motor. Inside the motor, small carbon brushes make physical contact with a spinning part called the commutator. This contact creates the electrical connection needed to spin the motor and drive the drill.
Brushed drills are simple, tough, and usually cheaper than brushless models, which makes them popular for beginners and light DIY use.
How Does It Work?
A brushed motor works using four key components:
- Stator – the stationary outer part that creates a magnetic field
- Rotor (armature) – the spinning inner part
- Commutator – a rotating switch that controls current flow
- Carbon brushes – small blocks that press against the commutator
Here’s the basic process:
- Electricity flows through the brushes
- Brushes transfer power to the commutator
- The commutator energises the rotor
- The rotor spins, turning the drill chuck
Because the brushes physically touch the commutator, the system is simple but creates friction and heat.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Lower cost than brushless drills
- Simple, proven technology
- Easy to repair
- Good for light to medium DIY tasks
- Smooth, predictable power delivery
Cons
- Brushes wear out over time
- More heat and friction
- Less efficient than brushless motors
- Shorter battery life
- Louder during use
Comparison Table
| Feature | Brushed drill |
| Motor type | Brushes (carbon brushes) |
| Efficiency | Lower than brushless |
| Heat | Runs hotter due to friction |
| Maintenance | Brushes wear out over time |
| Cost | Usually cheaper |
| Best for: | Beginners and light DIY |
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose a brushed drill if:
- You want the cheapest option
- You only do occasional DIY
- You don’t need maximum power or efficiency
- You prefer simple, repairable tools
Choose a brushless drill if:
- You want more power
- You drill frequently
- You want longer battery life
- You prefer a cooler‑running, low‑maintenance tool
For a full side‑by‑side comparison, see our guide to brushed vs brushless drills.
FAQs
Are brushed drills still good?
Yes — they’re reliable, affordable, and perfectly fine for most home DIY tasks.
Do brushed drills wear out faster?
The brushes eventually wear down, but replacements are cheap and easy to fit.
Are brushed drills weaker than brushless?
Generally yes. Brushless motors deliver more power and efficiency, but brushed drills are still capable for everyday use.
Final Thoughts
A brushed drill is a simple, cost‑effective tool that’s ideal for beginners and light DIY work. While it’s not as efficient or powerful as a brushless model, it’s still a dependable choice for most household tasks.