Summary

Solid, budget-friendly 18V Worx hammer drill with practical features and reliable performance for light to medium trades.

Findings

On the job, the WX386 feels compact and well-balanced in the hand, which makes it easy to manouevre in tight spaces and overhead work. The build quality is solid for a budget tool; the plastics and mouldings stand up to day-to-day site use, and the chuck interface feels secure when bits are clipped in. It handles timber drilling with ease, and the hammer function provides useful assistance when starting masonry work on brick or soft block, without the tool feeling sluggy or underpowered.

The two-speed gearbox and adjustable torque give sensible control for screws and drilling tasks, which helps avoid overdriving or slipping in delicate materials. Bit changes are quick and straightforward thanks to the keyless chuck, which saves time when switching between bits during mixed tasks. The grip is comfortable, and the trigger action is smooth, with predictable response across the speed range. A compact LED work light adds practicality in dim spaces, and the battery life is sufficient for a typical day's work; charging is reasonably swift and the pack holds its charge well between tasks.

Overall, this Worx model represents dependable performance for carpentry, fencing, shelving, and light masonry work at a sensible price. It's not a heavy-duty pillar drill or a dedicated hammer drill for demanding masonry, but for continuous site work and non-specialist applications it offers solid value and reliable capability.

Pros

  • Solid build quality for a budget tool
  • Lightweight and well-balanced for comfortable use
  • Keyless chuck enables fast bit changes
  • Two-speed gearbox with adjustable torque for control
  • Effective hammer function for light masonry tasks

Cons

  • Not a heavy-duty hammer drill; limited for stubborn masonry
  • Battery life may be stretched on longer, continuous drilling sessions
  • Plastics and finishes feel less durable under serious site abuse
  • Lacks premium features found on higher-end models (e.g., brushless motor, advanced vibration control)
  • Performance drops a little under heavy loads compared with dedicated, higher-powered drills

Price at time of review: £45.00