Not every DIYer has the same definition of budget when looking to purchase power tools, so for clarity, in this article, I’m going to focus primarily on budget brands and power tools that sit on the low end of the price scale. However, I have included a power tool brand known for balance and curiosity.
Just remember that budget doesn’t mean bad. More well-known brands like Makita and DEWALT undoubtedly produce good-quality tools, but they usually DIY Marketed and made for everyday use, that means they cost more. Budget power tools rarely have the same build quality, but you can still find quality for DIY use.
Here I share 5 budget tools I’ve used over the years and what to consider when shopping for your own budget tool kit.
Five power tools I didn’t spend a fortune on and still go today
1. Black+Decker Cordless Drill
The drill is the king of power tools for DIYers. It’s a tool that every level of DIYer owns, and it’s often the first power tool they buy. It’s been a while since I bought my first power tool, but my current cordless drill from Black+Decker has been with me for over ten years. And it didn’t cost a fortune when I bought it.
However, it has been with me for so long that the particular model I have is no longer available. But the current incarnation (see below) is well-priced and a great choice for basic drilling and screwing.
If you want something more powerful, I can recommend Einhell TE-CD 18 Cordless Combi Drill (Available from Screwfix). I just got this, and I love it. Hopefully, it will last up to my current Black+Decker model.
Black+Decker 18v Hammer Drill
An all-purpose, everyday cordless drill that features an 11-position clutch and drill, screw and hammer functions to give you control over DIY tasks.
2. Black+Decker Detail Sander
I know it’s another Black+Decker power tool, but I’ve always found it to be a good choice for DIY jobs, and this handy little detail sander works a treat and costs just over £20. I’ve had mine for over five years, and it completes my stairs, spindles, and banisters. It includes dozens of doors, door frames, architraves, window frames, window sills and skirting board. In fact, most of the woodwork in my house – and it’s still going strong.
All I had to do was replace the plug (I broke it) and sandpaper pads. And if it goes wrong, I only have to pay another £22.
A neat 55W detail sander that fits nicely in the palm of the hand, offering plenty of grip and control. Options to purchase with 6 sanding sheets or 15 accessories and a softbag
3. Home orbital sander
I had never heard of vonhaus before him Orbital sander entered my hands. But I need a new sander, read a few reviews and thought I’d take a chance. I don’t remember how much I paid for it, but it wasn’t much, and I’ve had it for about four years. It’s a faithful companion to my detail sander, so it sees a lot of action.
Along with the jobs that my detail sander has handled, this orbital sander has done even more. He has sanded plywood and MDF sheets, refinished my garden furniture and helped out Sand floorboards.
Its easy-to-use variable-speed feature is very helpful when sanding and probably helps extend its life, since it’s not always in top gear. And, like my Black+Decker mouse, it’s still going strong, and the current price point (just under £30) makes it worth considering.
Vonhaus 300w orbital sander
Corded budget-friendly lightweight orbital sander that comes with six speed settings for quick material removal or fine finishing work. Includes 12 sanding pads ranging from 60-320 grit
4. MacAllister circular saw
McAllister was another brand I had never heard of when I bought their circular saw. But my thinking was a little different. I needed a circular saw, and in my many trips to B&Q, I spotted the Mac Allister 190mm Corded Circular Saw at a very affordable price. So I bought it.
Here we are three years later, and it’s still doing great. He has cut countless sheets of plywood and MDF, helped me build wardrobes, shelving units, shelves, flooring and timber partitions.
As you might expect, it’s not cordless, so you’ll need an extension lead (like this one). Status 2 Socket Cable Reel from Amazon) to make sure you’re in the right place when you need it. The blade is a 24-tooth all-rounder that’s great for ripping wood and boards, but if you’re looking for a finer cut, you may need something a bit finer.
Mac Allister Corded Circular Saw
A 190mm circular saw that delivers precise and powerful cuts thanks to its 190mm x 16mm carbon-tipped blade with 24 teeth and hand-parallel and laser guides.
5. Saw the meter
I have to be honest and say that my Makita miter saw is not at the budget end of the price scale, but I think it is definitely good value for money. This is one of my most recent acquisitions and I decided to invest a little more since I had the budget to do so. And I was curious, and wanted to see the quality I would get from a well-known brand.
It’s fair to say I was not disappointed. This saw is sturdy and well built, with average air quality. This Makita LS0714N/1 190mm Sliding Compound Miter Saw (Available from Screwfix) Helped me make custom fence panels and lay wood floors, making sure I got crisp, clean and even edges and corners where needed.
If you don’t want to spend a lot, there are many cheaper options that will do the job. Worx and Metabo (like this one Metabo KGS 216 Slide Compound Meter Viewed from Amazon) are good mid-range options, while Evolution Power Tools is also a good budget option.
Evolution Sliding Meter saw
This sliding miter saw is equipped with a Tungsten Carbide Tipped (TCT) blade that cuts through wood, steel, aluminum, plastic and more, providing 65mm deep cuts where needed.
How to choose budget power tools
If you’re an occasional DIYer, you probably only use your power tools a few times a year. Even if you’re an avid DIYer, it’s unlikely that all of your power tools will be called into action every weekend.
And, when you call on your power tools, some will be called into action more than others. For example, a drill will probably get a lot more use than an angle grinder, so it makes sense not to buy really cheap tools that you use the most. Read on reviews And take a chance; Most of the time you won’t be disappointed.
I have bought many budget power tools, and they rarely let me down. And when they have, it’s been very soon after purchase, so I was able to take them back under warranty and get them replaced.
My general advice is always to consider how much the power tool will be used and buy accordingly. If it’s going to be used a lot, spend at the top end of your budget. If unsure, buy a budget brand and see how it goes. What’s the worst that could happen? It can last only two years. Alternatively, it can last for years, just like my budget power tools.
Also, compare prices of budget brands with cheaper versions of well-known brands. You may find something that costs a bit more, but it lasts longer and offers more features.
Finally, I suggest you to buy high quality accessories like drill bits and sanding discs. Accessories supplied with budget models are, as a general rule, low in quality.
FAQs
Who Makes Budget Power Tools?
Do a search on Amazon, and we guarantee you’ll find a whole range of power tool brands you’ve never heard of, along with more established brands. Take a trip to your local B&Q, and you’ll find some very competitively priced power tools below. MacAllister Name They also have a name brand builder. owns a brand name Screwfix TitanAnd Lidl has some smart power tool bargains under too Parkside Banner These are all own-brand power tools.
Most budget tools come from manufacturers that already make power tools. For example, the Parkside brand (found in Lidl) is owned by the Germany-based Einhell Group, which manufactures its own power tools. Both B&Q and Screwfix are part of the Kingfisher group. So it’s safe to assume that many of their power tools come from the same source.
Brands like B&Q still want a good reputation with their own brand of power tools, so it makes sense that you’re still getting a decent product when you opt for a more budget price tag.
The right power tools make any DIY project much easier. Call your sanders into action and get your preparation looking right Paint trends, Matching skirting board Make the most of your inner style and some smarts Consider wall paneling.
