Tools · As of 2026-10-16
The tools that come up in nearly every install, repair and renovation: a drill, a laser measure, a voltage tester.
Photo: Quilia / Unsplash
Photo: Chris Briggs / UnsplashTypical price: $150-200 varies by retailer
3-year cost About $150-$200. No plan or parts to buy. How this is worked out
This week A cordless drill/driver kit remains the most-bought first tool for home projects.
A common first cordless kit for hanging, mounting and general projects.
Ongoing costs Check whether the battery and charger are included.
Typical price: $180-210 varies by retailer
3-year cost About $180-$210. No plan or parts to buy. How this is worked out
This week Pairs with the drill above on the same battery platform; a frequent add-on purchase.
Faster than a drill for driving long screws and lag bolts. Shares a battery platform with the drill above.
Ongoing costs Check whether the battery and charger are included.
Typical price: $60-90 varies by retailer
3-year cost About $60-$90. No plan or parts to buy. How this is worked out
This week Quick, accurate measurements without a tape measure and a second pair of hands.
Quick room measurements for shelves, blinds and appliance fit. Also handy for sizing an air purifier.
Ongoing costs Batteries.
Typical price: $30-45 varies by retailer
3-year cost About $30-$45. No plan or parts to buy. How this is worked out
This week A basic, inexpensive safety check before touching any wiring.
A basic check before touching wiring. It does not replace turning the breaker off and following local electrical rules.
Ongoing costs Batteries.
Typical price: $45-60 varies by retailer
3-year cost About $45-$60. No plan or parts to buy. How this is worked out
This week A small, frequently-bought tool before mounting shelves or a TV.
Finds wood and metal studs before you drill, so a shelf or TV mount actually holds.
Ongoing costs Batteries.
Read next: Smart home starter kit: what to buy first
Typical price: $45-60 varies by retailer
3-year cost About $45-$60. No plan or parts to buy. How this is worked out
A wide, stiff-blade tape for longer reaches without it folding over. Two tapes means one for the toolbox and one to leave out.
Ongoing costs None.
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