DeWalt 20V MAX drill and impact combo kit
Best for: Every workshop
Drilling and driving covers most building jobs. The batteries power later tools too.
Check price on AmazonBuying guide · Updated 2026-10-23
Workshop Starter Setup: 9 Power Tools Worth Buying First
Setting up a workshop is expensive if you buy in the wrong order. Start with tools that handle the most jobs, then add bigger machines as your projects grow. Here's the order we'd follow.
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How to choose
1
Start cordless, add corded
Handheld tools work best cordless. Big machines like miter and table saws are often better value corded.
2
Dust control from day one
A shop vacuum and safety gear protect your lungs and keep tools accurate.
3
Buy machines for real projects
Only buy a table saw or router when a project needs it. Tools bought 'just in case' often sit unused.
At a glance
| Product | Best for | Group | |
|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt 20V MAX drill and impact combo kit | Every workshop | Start here | Check price |
| Circular saw | Cutting sheets and boards | Start here | Check price |
| Bosch random orbit sander | Smooth finishes | Start here | Check price |
| Bosch jigsaw | Curves and cutouts | Next up | Check price |
| Oscillating multi-tool | Renovation and repair | Next up | Check price |
| Shop vacuum | Every workshop | Next up | Check price |
| DeWalt 12-inch miter saw | Trim, framing and furniture | When you get serious | Check price |
| DeWalt jobsite table saw | Ripping boards and sheets | When you get serious | Check price |
| Makita compact router | Edges, grooves and joints | When you get serious | Check price |
Start here The first three tools
Circular saw
Best for: Cutting sheets and boards
Cuts plywood and lumber to size. Most of a table saw's job for a fraction of the price.
Check price on AmazonBosch random orbit sander
Best for: Smooth finishes
Sands fast without swirl marks and has good dust collection.
Check price on AmazonNext up More cuts, cleaner shop
Bosch jigsaw
Best for: Curves and cutouts
Cuts curves and holes for sinks and sockets. Smooth and easy to control.
Check price on AmazonOscillating multi-tool
Best for: Renovation and repair
Cuts flush, scrapes and sands in tight spots. A problem-solver on almost every renovation.
Check price on AmazonShop vacuum
Best for: Every workshop
Sucks up sawdust, water and debris. Can connect to sanders and saws.
Check price on AmazonWhen you get serious Precision machines
DeWalt 12-inch miter saw
Best for: Trim, framing and furniture
Fast, accurate crosscuts and angles. The core of most home workshops.
Check price on AmazonDeWalt jobsite table saw
Best for: Ripping boards and sheets
Straight, repeatable rip cuts. Compact enough for a garage workshop.
Check price on AmazonMakita compact router
Best for: Edges, grooves and joints
Adds decorative edges and joinery to projects. A favourite for its size and power.
Check price on AmazonHow we picked
These are researched picks: we compare specifications, long-term owner reviews and value, then say clearly who each product suits. Prices change often, especially around Black Friday, so check the current price before you buy.
FAQ
What's the first power tool to buy for a workshop?
A cordless drill and impact driver kit. It handles most building jobs and starts your battery platform.
Circular saw or table saw first?
A circular saw. It's cheaper, portable and handles most cuts. Add a table saw when you build often.
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