The biggest mistake in cordless tools is thinking you are buying one tool. You are not. You are choosing a battery ecosystem that will influence every tool purchase after that.
Choose the Platform Before the Tool
If you are a working pro, Milwaukee and DeWalt dominate for a reason. If you value refined feel and long-term motor quality, Makita is hard to ignore. If you are a homeowner building a practical garage without lighting your wallet on fire, Ryobi makes a ton of sense.
Brushless vs Brushed
Brushless tools are usually worth paying for if you use them often. They run cooler, last longer, and usually deliver more performance. For occasional DIY use, brushed tools can still be fine.
Battery Size Matters
Do not assume the biggest battery is always the best battery. Large packs are great for saws and grinders. They can make drills and drivers feel clumsy and top-heavy.
Combo Kits Are the Smart Entry Point
If you are starting from nothing, a good combo kit is often the cheapest clean way into a platform. The trick is buying a kit built around tools you will actually use, not just a big number on the box.
Simple Recommendation
Pros: Milwaukee M18 or DeWalt 20V MAX XR. Quality-first users: Makita LXT. Homeowners: Ryobi ONE+ HP. That is the honest short version.