I'm in the market for a cordless drill/driver. I would like to get one that is of superb quality and has as many applications as possible.

For example, I would like it to have a built-in level for both vertical and horizontal drilling. I wouldn't mind it having a light for use in dark places (e.g attic & basement). Also, I think an optional hammer feature may come in handy from time to time but isn't absolutely necessary.

I would prefer something well balanced with a comfortable grip. I'm not a professional contractor, but I am in the process of fixing up a house so the drill will see moderate use is the future.

I've read that when it comes to battery technology Lithium Ion is the way to go for a nice balance between power, weight, and longevity - or holding charge. I think an 18v Lithium Ion would be nice but am not dead set against considering something else - perhaps 14.4v.

I've looked at Makita, Milwaukee, and DeWalt. They all seem to make a nice product. Online searches say Panasonic makes a good one as well as Bosch. I'm torn. Any help from personal experience or even anecdotal is much appreciated.

Please offer your opinion regardless of price. Again, I desire a drill that has many of the above features and such a comprehensive drill/driver will have extreme value for me in the years to come whatever the price.

Thanks in advance.

I originally purchased a Dewalt drill with Nicad batteries. However,after fooling around with the lighter lithium based cordless drill/drivers I've decided to go that route.

I'll be using this drill from everything from hanging blinds to decking. I'm not a contractor but more of a DIY weekend warrior. The one thing that I was concerned about was being able to drill into concrete. Seems like the drill/drivers that have the hammerdrill feature are on the heavy side and I was looking for something lighter. Am I better off just getting a seperate corded hammerdrill or Hilti drill for the very few times that I may need to drill into concrete?

So far I've had my eye on Makita's,Hitatchi,Ridgid to name a few. Can anyone offer some opinions?
Is anyone familiar with Ridgid? They came out with a new 18V lithium with a larger battery than the new compact Makita(black & white). Ridgid offers a lifetime warranty(even on the batteries). I'd like to hear from anyone who has used their tools. The 18V is around 4.5lbs.

http://www.ridgid.com/Tools/R86006-Compact-Lithium-Ion-Drill/EN/index.htm