In-Depth Review: Porter-Cable PCC606LA 20-Volt 1/2-Inch Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver Kit
Summary
The PORTER-CABLE PCC606LA 20-Volt 1/2-Inch Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver Kit (One Battery) is the best choice for me because it delivers outstanding power and performance compacted in one small and handy package. The battery is designed for long use to carry even toughest materials and other tasks.
It is because of this reasons that this review is created to provide you details about this power tool and help you find the best drill and driver that will suit your needs.
We Like
- Lightweight
- Ergonomic design
- Variable speed
- Prolonged battery use
- Cordless
We Don't Like
- The trigger pull can be hard to control slowly
- Battery is a little hard to remove
Introduction
I am not actually a professional handyman but I definitely know my way when it comes to any kind of repairs at home and very familiar with my tools. I purchased this drill at my friend’s insistence, who always claimed to be a better handyman than I am. He has bought his almost one month prior.
I have this for two weeks already and have used in several tasks and projects. And I must say I should trust my friend’s judgment more as this has certainly did not disappoint. It delivers power, performance, and versatility more than I needed. Cordless tools work for me because though I may compromise on the power I love its portability and that it can be available to use anytime without the worry of finding a power plug. But PORTER-CABLE PCC606LA 20-Volt 1/2-Inch Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver Kit set the bar, as the battery life is superb. It charges pretty fast as well. It is definitely a good buy for me.
Who Is It For?
Drills and Drivers are an essential tool as it is used in several types of jobs including cabinet and furniture making, framing out rooms, fastening hinges on doors and other general construction. It is a useful tool in any job sites at the same time a reliable aid for DIY projects, woodworking hobbies, or as a “go to” tool for some repairs at home.
The power and variable speed that allows it to work in any kind and density of materials are what makes this drill great to use in any job. And because of its compact design, it can drill even on tight and confined spaces
As one limitation of using a cordless tool, once the battery is drained, you need to recharge it to continue the operation if you don’t have a spare. But with this drill and driver, battery are engineered for long use hence you will be able to manage your work better.
Buyer's Guide
Things to Consider Before Buying a Drill
When you think you are all set to work on repairing your furniture, you realize you needed a drill. To make sure you will purchase the best drill and driver for your needs, you need to check on these following key points:
- Power
Depending on the task and project you are working on, power is one essential component in choosing for the drill. Heavy-duty jobs will require higher power which can be determined by the horsepower or voltage for corded and cordless drill respectively. If you are inclined to small scale DIY projects, consequently, lower power may also be required. The drill’s capability to tackle what kind of job basically relies on this.
- Speed
Most high-end drill and drivers feature a variable speed as it allows them more versatility and productivity. With adjustable speed settings, it is easy to achieve optimal results because you can set the drill exactly on the precise speed required for the material you use. Variable speed may also provide higher torque and increased control. It is normally governed by a trigger.
While variable speed has many advantages, single speed can also offer you unparalleled power when used too.
- Chuck Size
The chuck refers to space in the drill where the drill bit is inserted. It is normally classified into ¼-inch, 3/8-inch, and ½-inch. The larger the size of the chuck, the more powerful the motor is. In case you will be doing difficult and complex jobs what will require high power, then you may opt for the ½-inch. For normal everyday use, a 3/8-inch chuck is commonly used.
- Weight
Most drills and drivers are built with high power but lighter weight because it can be more advantageous. One primary purpose is to reduce fatigue and tension on your hand, especially for long use. That being said, it helps increase your productivity and efficiency.
- Handles
Ergonomically designed drills and handles may also help make work more worthwhile and productive. It is especially helpful in working on heavy-duty tasks and frequent use. It is, therefore, important to choose for a drill that will fit your hand perfectly and comfortably.
- Power Source
In buying a drill, you may be faced with a decision to whether buy the corded-electric or the cordless or battery operated. Either way, you will enjoy each of their strengths and limitations. One most notable advantage of the corded electric is the unlimited power since cordless may wear out once the battery is drained. However, there are already high-end models, in which batteries are innovated and engineered for long lasting use. Cordless also regarded as more portable and convenient to use.
Product Details
Description
PORTER-CABLE PCC606LA 20-Volt 1/2-Inch Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver Kit is designed includes power and features that guarantee an effective and efficient work even hard tasks such as toughest material drilling, wood drilling, and all fastening applications. It is compact in design, hence convenient to use as well. And with its ½-inch metal ratcheting chuck, it is guaranteed heavy-duty performance and versatility in job sites and in any professional setting.
Product Information
- Item Weight: 4.4 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 3.7 x 9.8 inches
- Power Source: Battery-powered
- Style: One Battery
- Voltage: 20 volts
- Batteries Cell Type: Lithium Ion
- Included Components: Battery
- Average Battery Life: 24 hours
Features & Benefits
Compact Design
Measuring only less than 8 inches in length and weighing about 3.5 pounds, this drill and driver was also able to squeeze in all the power and high-capacity components in one small package. And because of this, it makes an effective tool to drill and fasten in small and confined areas powerfully that not normal drills can accommodate.
Ergonomic Design
To guarantee its user’s ease and comfort of use, this Porter Cable drill and driver is designed with a slim handle to reduce stress and fatigue for an extended and long operation. Rubber bumpers are also provided on both sides of this tool to protect it from wear and tear over time. For added visibility and clarity, LED light is installed to make work more efficient and productive. And lastly, it comes with a belt clip for easy access on the job sites, which can be attached to fit both left and right handed users.
Long Battery Life
Porter Cable has invested on the lithium battery platform for this drill and driver to withstand long and productive use with a long lasting battery to perform tasks effectively and get it done in a timely manner. The battery is also fast to charge, hence lesser downtime. An incorporated battery gauge is built to monitor the charge level and manage the performance during work.
Variable Speed
This drill and driver can work in any kinds of materials with the help of its 2-range speed that can deliver 0 to 400 and 0 to 1,600 RPM. You may be able to adjust it depending on what the application require in achieving the desired outcome.
Pros
- High torque and power
- It is lightweight
- The battery charges fast and long lasting
- It comes with a variable speed and adjustable torque settings
- Portable
Cons
- The drill bit spin is a little wobbly
- The battery does not slip in and out smoothly
Reviews / Testimonials
A great way to know more about a product before making a sound decision is reading through different comments and feedbacks straight from the people who have already used it. Based on the review statistics, it is safe to conclude that majority are happy and pleased with their purchase.
Performance wise, users were raving about the torque power and variable speed of this drill. The fact that it is lightweight and easy to use was also two of the components that customers commonly liked. They also appreciated the fact that it can be used in any materials in multiple of operations and projects.
Some have wished, though that battery removal and installation should be smoother as that could cost an extra time. Battery, however, lasts long when used and it is great that it charges pretty fast as well.
MUST SEE: Make 16,000 Projects With Step By Step Plans
Ted's Woodworking Plans contains complete instructions from start to finish, leaving absolutely no guesswork. Here is what you get:
- Step-By-Step Instructions
- Cutting & Materials List
- Detailed Schematics
- Views From All Angles
- Suitable For Beginners & Professionals
The other thing that was a little off was the drill bit spin and chuck that can sometimes get unsteady as few users experienced. But overall, it has shown effectiveness, versatility, and convenience of use. In the words of one satisfied customer, “great power, long battery, does a great job”.
Alternative Choices
Given our different needs and an array of choices for the best drill and driver out there, we give you these other options, which you may also like.
1) DeWalt DCD771C2 20V Max Cordless Lithium-Ion ½-Inch Compact Drill Driver Kit
Compact and lightweight, this drill driver is perfect for use in tight areas and close spaces for prolonged period of time. It is powered by a 300-watts motor and a high-speed transmission that delivers a 2-speed range of 0 to 450 and 0-1500 RPM for a variety of jobs and applications, in different kinds of materials.
This kit features a 1.2-inch single sleeve ratcheting chuck that provides a high bit gripping strength. This allows it to carry out heavy-duty and hard jobs and projects. It also comes with an ergonomic handle design for comfortable use. The kit, aside from the drill includes 20V max compact lithium ion battery packs, compact charger, and a contractor bag.
2) Black & Decker LDX 120C 20-Volt Max Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver
This is perfect for drilling any wood, metal plastics, and screw driving jobs for any projects and applications. It is effective to use even in confined and narrow spaces.
It is versatile with its variable speed, which allows it to be used in a variety of materials and permits countersinking without damaging it. It is also designed with an 11-position clutch for precision and control when drilling and driving. You will not worry about fatigue as it is lightweight and compact, hence convenient for prolonged use.
3) Bosch DDB181-02 18-Volt Lithium-Ion ½-Inch Compact Tough Drill/Driver Kit
Delivering high-powered performance in a handy and compact package, this kit is designed with 20+1 clutch settings and a 2-speed transmission to provide you with the versatility to match the task at hand. It is great for everyday drilling and driving with Bosch’s Electronic Cell Protection for an increased battery lifetime by prevention of three main cause of battery failure namely, overheating, overloading and deep discharging.
It is lightweight and handy for any overhead applications, which deliver 350 in-lbs of optimized torque to be used in a variety of projects. It comes with a LED light for added visibility in dark and tight areas. And for your convenience of use, this drill and driver kit is built with an ergonomically designed soft-grip handle.
4) Makita XFD10R 18V Compact Lithium-Ion Cordless ½-Inch Driver Drill Kit
This drill and driver provide you power, performance, and outstanding ergonomics in a compact size and with a fast-charging battery for less downtime. It is built with a 4-pole motor with an all-metal speed transmission with a range of 0 to 600 and 0-1900 RPM and delivers a 480-in pounds of max torque for a wide array of applications and tasks.
It features an Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) thoughtfully engineered for an increased dust and water resistance in job sites. It is also designed with a LED light as well for visibility in close areas for an efficient work.
Alternative Choices Comparison Table
Alternative Choices | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
DeWalt DCD771C2 20V Max Cordless Lithium-Ion ½-Inch Compact Drill Driver Kit | ||
Black & Decker LDX 120C 20-Volt Max Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill/Driver | ||
Bosch DDB181-02 18-Volt Lithium-Ion ½-Inch Compact Tough Drill/Driver Kit | ||
Makita XFD10R 18V Compact Lithium-Ion Cordless ½-Inch Driver Drill Kit |
The Final Cut
With our different needs and priorities, finding the best drill and driver may be a difficult task but essential for a more productive and efficient work. Overall, it should be high in power, outstanding performance, and variable speed. Additional points on the ease and convenience of use as it also help improve on productivity to achieve best results.
PORTER-CABLE PCC606LA 20-Volt 1/2-Inch Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver Kit is not only powerful, but also versatile and efficient rolled into one small and lightweight power tool. I specifically like the fact that its battery is engineered for long use and guaranteed to carry out all heavy and complex jobs.
If you feel that this product also speaks to your needs, you may click here for more details.
