Best Cordless Drill for Drilling Holes in Plastic and Acrylic

Updated 2026-06-12 · 1 Tier Finds

Drilling into plastic and acrylic is a completely different game than driving screws into wood. If you apply too much speed or force, you don’t just get a messy hole—you crack the sheet, melt the material, or ruin the finish. Finding the best drill for plastic and acrylic isn’t about buying the most powerful tool on the shelf; it is about finding one with precise speed control and adjustable torque. You need a tool that can behave gently when necessary but still belongs to a robust battery platform if you plan to expand your collection later.

Why Speed Control Is Non-Negotiable

The biggest enemy of plastic is heat. When a drill bit spins too fast, friction builds up quickly, causing acrylic to melt and bind the bit. This melting creates a rough edge and can cause the bit to grab violently, snapping the material. To combat this, you need a drill with a high-quality variable speed trigger. You must be able to "feather" the trigger to keep the RPMs low.

For plastics, you generally want to drill at lower speeds. A good drill will allow you to start the hole slowly to establish a pilot point without wandering, and then maintain a steady, moderate pace. If a drill only has one speed or a jerky trigger, it is a poor candidate for this material.

Torque Settings and Clutch Mechanisms

Many people overlook the clutch setting when drilling holes, assuming it is only for driving screws. However, when looking for the best drill for plastic and acrylic, the clutch is a critical safety feature. The clutch disengages the motor once a specific resistance level is met.

If you set the clutch to a low number (usually 3-5 on a 1-20 scale), the drill will stop driving the moment the bit is about to break through the other side. This prevents the drill from "grabbing" the plastic and shooting through, which is the primary cause of cracks and blowouts. Without this feature, you have to rely entirely on your own hand strength to stop the drill at the exact right millisecond.

Voltage and Battery Platforms

When selecting Power Tools for your workshop, it is tempting to buy the massive 18-volt or 20-volt max drills for every task. However, for detailed work on plastics, a 12-volt sub-compact model is often superior. They are lighter, easier to control, and offer plenty of power for acrylic sheets without the heavy, top-heavy torque of a larger model.

That said, you should consider the battery platform. If you already own a brand’s 18V circular saw or sander, buying their 18V drill might make more sense economically, even if it is slightly bulkier. Stick to one brand ecosystem so your batteries are interchangeable across your cordless drills, saws, sanders, and combo kits.

The Right Bits Make the Difference

Even the best drill will fail if you use standard wood boring bits. Wood bits have a central point that can aggressively wedge into plastic, causing splitting. For clean holes in acrylic, you need specific bits designed for the material.

• Twist Drill Bits: Standard metal bits work, but you must modify the angle. Flatten the cutting edges slightly to reduce the "grabbing" effect.
• Step Drill Bits: These are the gold standard for plastic. They drill graduated hole sizes, deburring the edge as they go. They cut rather than wedge, significantly reducing the risk of cracking.
• Spade Bits: Avoid these entirely. They are too aggressive and will almost certainly crack acrylic sheets.

Budget Tiers and What to Expect

Prices for cordless drills vary wildly, but you generally get what you pay for regarding trigger sensitivity and clutch accuracy. You can check Amazon for current pricing, but here is what to expect in different ranges:

Budget ($50 – $100): These are often brushed motor tools. They will drill holes, but the triggers may be jumpy, making low-speed control difficult. They are fine for occasional use but require a steady hand.

Mid-Range ($100 – $200): This is the sweet spot for DIYers. You likely get a brushless motor, which is more efficient and provides smoother power delivery. The clutches are usually more accurate, and the ergonomics are better for prolonged use.

Premium ($200+): These are professional-grade tools. They offer advanced electronics that maintain speed under load and incredible precision. If you are doing fabrication work regularly, this investment pays off in reduced material waste.

FAQ

Do I need a hammer drill for plastic?

No. You should never use the hammer function when drilling plastic or acrylic. The hammering action is designed to pulverize concrete and brick; it will shatter plastic instantly. Ensure your drill is set to "Drill" or "Driver" mode only.

How do I prevent the plastic from cracking as the bit exits?

Aside from using the clutch trick, the best method is to place a scrap piece of wood behind the plastic sheet. Clamp them together. When the drill bit exits the plastic, it will drill into the wood safely, preventing the back of the hole from chipping or blowing out.

Is water necessary when drilling acrylic?

It is highly recommended. Keeping the bit and plastic cool reduces melting. You can use a spray bottle, a damp sponge, or even a small stream of water over the drilling area. This keeps the cut clear and produces a much smoother edge.