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DIY home project with green hand sander being used on a wooden bench

Date published: February 2026 | By Kirsty Hudson

Whether you’re hanging shelves, trimming doors or upcycling a piece of furniture, the right power tool can save time and improve results. Our guide explains what power tools are, how to pick between corded and cordless and looks at the must‑have tools for home projects to help you buy with confidence.  

    What are power tools?

    Power tools use mains electricity (corded) or rechargeable batteries (cordless) to drill, cut, sand and clean more quickly and consistently than hand tools which are ideal for common jobs like putting up shelves, assembling furniture and trimming timber.

      Power tools vs hand tools

      • Power tools can make DIY much easier, especially for bigger or tougher jobs, as they do the hard work for you and help you get consistent results. 
      • They can also be more precise thanks to built-in features like depth stops, guides and variable speed controls that help you stay on track. 
      • They also save time and effort, making projects feel quicker, less tiring and more enjoyable even if you’re new to DIY. 

        Home projects where power tools can help

        • Putting up shelves and fixing things to walls 
        • Laying flooring and fitting skirting boards 
        • Building furniture and upcycling old pieces 

          Types of power tools and top tips

          Cordless or corded?

          • Choose cordless for flexibility. Cordless (or battery powered) power tools can usually be used for most home projects. Stick to an 18V battery platform so future tools can be bought as tool only, just be sure to check compatibility as models and brands can differ. 
          • Choose corded for continuous, heavy duty sessions when you don’t want to pause to recharge. 

            What to look for when comparing tools

            • Performance: Go brushless for better efficiency and a longer lasting tool 
            • Value: Pick a good value kit e.g. a tool with 2 batteries and a charger, so you can keep working while one battery charges. 
            • Safety and control: Look for an electric brake to stop the bit or blade quickly and soft start for smoother control.  

              Top tips to think about before you get started

              • Just getting started? Go for a starter kit which usually includes the tool plus 2 batteries and a charger. It’s the best value and you’re ready to go straight out of the box. 
              • If you already have a battery platform, choose the tool only body to save money and avoid duplicate chargers. 
              • If you are planning longer jobs look for bundles with extra batteries or a fast charger so you can keep working while one battery tops up. 

                The everyday essential power tools list

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                  1. Woman using a cordless drill to secure wood

                    Drills

                    • Best for: Your go to for most DIY jobs. A drill bores clean holes in wood and metal, drives screws and creates guide holes with ease; and with a combi’s hammer mode (or an SDS+) can tackle brick and block too. Perfect for putting up shelves, fitting curtain poles and building flatpack 
                    • Look for: 18V cordless platform, brushless motor, 2‑speed gearbox, clutch settings and LED work light; choose an SDS+ for frequent hard masonry. 
                  2. Bosch hand multi tool being used to cut through carpet

                    Multi‑tools

                    • Best for: Plunge cuts, trimming door frames for new flooring, grout removal and detail sanding which can be useful in tight spaces. 
                    • Look for: Tool‑free accessory change, variable speed, LED light and a starter blade/sanding set. 
                  3. A man using a circular saw on a work table to cut through wood

                    Saws - circular, jigsaw, mitre and reciprocating

                    • Best for: Use a circular saw when you need quick, straight cuts in sheet materials or timber. A jigsaw is great for curves and cutouts, while a mitre saw handles precise angles and cross cuts with ease. A reciprocating saw works with a fast back and forth action for speedy cutting. 
                    • Look for: Correct blade size and tooth count, guide/rail compatibility, electric brake (where applicable) and dust extraction ports. 

                  Carousel

                  1. A man using a cordless electric screw driver on a wooden frame

                    Electric screwdrivers

                    • Best for: Great for putting together flatpack furniture, fitting hinges and handling small jobs around the house. It gives you gentle, easy to control power, so you’re less likely to damage delicate materials. 
                    • Look for: USB‑C charging, integrated bit storage and clutch/torque settings for consistent screw depth. 
                  2. A person using a corded sander on a wooden frame

                    Sanders - random orbit, sheet, detail

                    • Best for: Ideal for taking off paint or varnish and smoothing furniture or worktops. Tackle big, flat areas with the random orbit action then use the sheet/detail option to get neatly into edges and corners. 
                    • Look for: Hook‑and‑loop pads, aligned extraction holes, variable speed and compatible dust ports for cleaner results. 
                  3. Drill bit being fitted into a drill

                    DIY power tool accessories

                    • Best for: Choosing the right bit, blade or disc for the material you’re cutting or drilling helps you work more accurately and get better results.  
                    • Look for: Impact‑rated driver bits, wood/HSS/masonry drill bits, fine‑tooth saw blades, diamond/grit discs, sanding discs, dust adapters, clamps and PPE. 

                  Other power tools to consider

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                  1. Angle grinders
                  2. Wallpaper tools
                  3. Nail guns and tackers
                  4. Routers and jointers
                  5. Glue guns
                  6. Compressors and pumps
                  7. Bench grinders
                  8. Heat guns
                  9. Planers

                  Safety and set-up essentials

                  • Wear eye, ear and dust protection; tie back hair and avoid loose clothing. 
                  • Use RCD‑protected extension leads outdoors; keep cables clear of blades and water. 
                  • Clamp work securely and let tools reach speed before cutting. 
                  • Check walls with a stud/pipe/cable finder before drilling. 
                  • Read the user manual to follow guidance on bits, blades and accessories. 

                    Power tools FAQs

                    What are power tools?

                    Electrically powered tools (corded or cordless) that drill, cut, sand or clean faster and more consistently than hand tools.

                    Should I buy a circular saw or a reciprocating saw?

                    For straight cuts in sheet goods and timber, choose a circular saw. For demolition and rough cuts through mixed materials pick a reciprocating saw.

                    What is a router tool?

                    A woodworking tool that cuts grooves and shapes edges which is ideal for shelves, joinery and hinge recesses.

                    What does Ah mean on a battery and how many do I need?

                    Ah (amphours) is capacity/range: higher Ah = longer runtime. For most DIY, 2.0Ah is light and handy; 4.0–5.0Ah suits longer sessions.

                    How should I store lithiumion batteries?

                    Keep them cool and dry, avoid full discharge and store at partial charge for long periods.

                    What’s the difference between a combi drill and a drill driver?

                    A drill driver handles wood/metal and screwdriving whereas a combi drill adds a hammer mode for brick/block.

                    Which should I buy first a circular saw or jigsaw?

                    Get a circular saw for fast, straight cuts in sheet goods and timber and choose a jigsaw for curves, cut outs and scribing.

                    What’s the difference a random orbit sander vs sheet sander?

                    A random orbit sander is great for larger, flat areas and helps give a smooth, swirl free finish. A sheet sander runs flatter, making it better for working along edges and for lighter sanding, especially when you’re doing the final finishing touches.

                    Ready to power up your next project?

                    Shop the tools and accessories to make DIY quicker, cleaner and more accurate.

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                      1. Cordless drill being used on a brick wall
                      2. Replacement battery for cordless drill
                      3. A person using a jet wash to clean a dirty patio