It's overwhelming trying to decide which compact cordless drill you need. Features and prices are broad. I've owned many drills from small low powered battery powered screw driver and drill combos to heavy, high torque drills for drilling or mixing concrete.
I have found that cheap drills are frustrating and a waste of money. The batteries wear out fast and just don't last. My biggest drill is a 10 amp 1 1/4 inch monster electric model. I've had it for years and use it primarily to mix small batches of concrete for making countertops and specialty items. It's a high torque beast. But unless you are doing heavy work you don't need one this size. Plus it's heavy.
Keyless Chuck
My experience with compact cordless drills is to buy the best you can. Over the long run a quality drill will save you money over the less expensive. I know, I've been making this mistake for years and have wasted a lot of money. In fact I have a bunch of lousy cordless drills that need to be sent to the drill grave yard but for some reason I can't seem to throw them out. As if they might come back to life.
Choosing Power
The higher the voltage, the more power and more weight. 18-Volt models are for everyday use and larger projects. 12-Volt Models are in the ideal range for home and light construction use. Prices vary with corresponding quality.
Lower voltage models are limiting to light use around home. If all you're ever going to use a cordless drill for is hanging pictures and tightening an occasional screw then the low power models might be fine. For household use splurge a little and you won't need to buy another drill for years.
Choosing Manufacturer
I think I own or have owned just about every kind of cordless drill out there on the market. I can't say which is best. I recently asked a few of my contractor buddies which drill manufacturer they liked best. Every one had a good argument for a different manufacturer. One guy said he buys cheap drills and throws them out when they die out. Another likes expensive drills because they last a long time and do a better job
My experience, you get what you pay for regardless of the manufacturer, they're all good. The higher the price, the better the quality and more features.
Drill Speed
Variable speed drills provide the most control. Single and dual speed drills are fine for drilling holes but if drilling screws and control are important go with the variable speed. RPM's are up to 1,000 with less expensive models maxing out at about 600 RPM.
Chuck Jaw
Most drills have 3/8 inch chuck jaws with higher power models maxing out at ½ inch. Some of the highest power models have a chuck jaw as large as 1 ¼ inch. In most cases a 3/8 inch chuck jaw will serve your purpose unless you are planning on drilling with large bits.
Forward and Reverse
Most models today have a forward and reverse switch. Make sure the switch is conveniently located near your index finger and thumb.
Hand Grip, Weight and Design
Again price dictates the quality of the design of the grip handle. It's a real luxury to have a well designed, lightweight, high powered drill. The right tools make a difference. They last and perform. I have some drills that I hate. They are cumbersome and heavy making precision a challenge and adding frustration to the job.
Batteries
2 are better than one. Unless you remove the battery and recharge on a regular basis I guarantee that one day you'll have a small project and no power. With a backup you'll never run short.
Keyless Chuck
The hand turn feature is a plus. Using keys to tighten the chuck is annoying. Sometimes they get jammed in there and when you knock it out it loosens the chuck. Then it needs to be tightened again. It always makes me wonder if there is a skill needed to properly tighten a drill with a key.