10 Best Milwaukee Power Tools Reviewed in 2024
Milwaukee has been an industry leader in manufacturing heavy-duty power tools that excel in both, performance and durability for almost 100 years. They introduced the first portable, lightweight capacity drill in 1924 and have continued to design heavy-duty electric power tools that are trusted by professionals around the world. Today, they manufacture over 500 different tools that meet the ever-changing needs of the world we live in and produce more than 3,500 accessories that help the user work smarter and faster. We made this guide to help you find the best Milwaukee power tools.
The first modern electric power tool was invented in 1895 by a German company C&E. However, the drill weighed 16.5 lbs and required more than one person to use it. It was slow and weak compared to the modern tools we see today, but it revolutionized the tool industry and opened the doors to innovation and invention. Today’s power tools are powerful, compact, and lightweight and can be found in homes all around the world.
Featured Recommendations
- Milwaukee Drill and Impact Driver
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Our rating - 4-pole Frameless Motor
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- Milwaukee Cordless Reciprocating Saw
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Our rating - One-Handed Design
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- Milwaukee M18 Impact Driver
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Our rating - REDLINK Intelligence
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Whether you work in a garage, factory, or enjoy doing work around the house, electric power tools can make your life easier. Unlike manual tools, which require brute strength and more time, power tools can get the job done quickly and easily. But not all power tools are the same, and if you are going to spend the extra money, you should at least opt for a quality product that will last. Milwaukee tools are some of the best in the world, and in this review, we will be going over some of the best power tools that they make.
10 Best Milwaukee Power Tools
1. Milwaukee Drill Set
No job is too hard for this drill driver and hex compact combo set. The high-performance hex impact driver features Milwaukee's unique 4-pole frameless motor and can deliver up to 1400 inch-pounds of torque. The drill driver also puts out 400 inch-pounds of torque to help you drill through some of the hardest surfaces.
M18 Lithium-Ion Battery
Although cordless power tools are usually not as powerful as compressed air or corded power tools, this combo kit uses Red Lithium, which uses superior technologies and design to deliver a longer running time and more power. Both drivers also feature battery fuel gauges the let you know when you need to recharge.
Cost and Value
Unlike other power tools that don't even include the batteries, this combo compact driver and hex impact driver comes with all the accessories you need to get the job done. It also comes with soft carrying case for easy portability.
Comes with two M18 Red Lithium batteries
Features built-in LED lights
Has a 5-year warranty
Different speed options
Fast discharge rate
Not as powerful as corded tools
2. Milwaukee Hackzall
Versatility is essential for a reciprocating saw, especially when cutting in hard to reach places. Milwaukee made this compact and lightweight so you can efficiently work in tight spots and even makes overhead cutting simple.
Powerful Motor
Surprisingly, this compact cordless saw produces 3,000 strokes per minute at a stroke length of 3/4inch stroke length, which enables you to cut through some of the hardest surfaces such as PVC and metal. But even with all that power, the dual gear anti-vibration system allows for better control and increased accuracy.
Cost and Value
The Hackzall cordless reciprocating saw is great for small and big jobs alike and is compatible with M18 compact Lithium-ion batteries and M18 XC high capacity lithium-ion batteries. The QUICK-LOK blade clamp means you can quickly and easily switch blades whenever necessary.
Built-in LED light
Dual gear anti-vibration system
QUIK-LOK blade clamp
Weighs only four pounds
Does not include battery
May heat up after prolonged use
3. Milwaukee Ratchet
One of the most significant issues cordless ratchets face is overheating from too much power. Redlink Intelligence, which is a built-in smart chip, prevents this from happening by communicating with the battery. This also avoids unnecessary damage and prolongs your tool's lifespan.
Recessed Switch
When you are laboring on an important job and need to get it done quickly, a mistake can be costly and time-consuming. Milwaukee put a recessed forward and backward switch on the backside of the head in order to prevent accidental actuation while working.
Cost and Value
At only 10-3/4 inches long and less than 2-pounds, this sub-compact ratchet can comfortably fit on your tool belt, and the 3/4inch low profile head means that you could use it in small spaces including engine bays. It has a robust 12-volt motor is made from reinforced steel for many years of reliable use.
Features an onboard fuel gauge
LED lighting
Redlink Intelligence
Metal trigger for variable speed
Doesn't come with battery or charger
Some complaints about torque
4. Milwaukee Impact Driver
Milwaukee's specially designed brushless motor comes with four times more power generating components than its competitors. This allows it to not only put out more power than the others, but it also produces a longer runtime and gives your tool a longer life as well.
Optimized Impact Mechanism
This patented Milwaukee feature gives this tool the most power to size ratio among all other competitors in its class. You can expect an astounding 3,450 IPM, 2,750 RPM and 1,500 in-pounds of torque for the ultimate performance.
Cost and Value
This sturdy, yet lightweight, hex impact driver features many of the innovative designs that have helped Milwaukee stand out as one of the best power tool manufacturers in the world. Its Redlink technology also protects from overload by using a system of communication between the battery, tool, and charger.
Features optimized impact mechanism
Protection against overload
Designed for M18 lithium-ion battery
Includes metal belt clip
Quickly drains battery
Only one speed
5. Milwaukee Circular Saw
Safety should always be a priority when using power tools, especially saw. Milwaukee designed this with heavy-duty magnesium lower and upper guards that not only protect you but also protects the edge of the blade from drops.
Ergonomically Designed
Comfort and balance are essential when handling circular saw as it allows for greater accuracy. This features a soft grip handle and is ergonomically designed to be compact and lightweight for easy control and maximum comfort.
Cost and Value
Its size and power make it ideal for portability, and the magnesium guards ensure the best durability in a cordless saw. It also has a built-in battery fuel gauge that lets you know how much run-time is remaining, so you don't have to worry about it dying in the middle of a job.
Durable magnesium guards
Soft-grip handles for extra comfort
2,000 charge warranty
Features battery fuel gauge
Not compatible with standard Milwaukee battery
Heavier than other same size saws
6. Milwaukee High Torque Impact Wrench
When you're working on a time limit, it's important that your tools are charged and ready to go. Milwaukee included a real-time battery fuel gauge that built-in and allows you to monitor the charge. The impact wrench also has a friction ring so you can quickly change sockets with one hand.
Lots of Torque
This half inch, high-torque impact wrench features Milwaukee's specially designed impact mechanism and a 4-pole motor that delivers an incredible 450 feet-pounds of torque with a longer run time than any other impact wrench in its class.
Cost and Value
Not only is this high torque impact wrench considered one of the best in class, but it is also very durable, compact, and lightweight, making it the ideal tool for at home and in professional settings. Its high torque output allows you to take on toughest jobs with ease.
Delivers 450 feet-pound of torque
Overheat protection
Onboard battery fuel gauge
Friction ring for quick changes
Need to purchase Redlithium XC Battery Pack
Inconvenient location for the reverse switch
7. Milwaukee Orbiting Multi-Tool
This orbiting multi-tool is just as effective with intense cutting jobs as it is with delicate sanding jobs. 12 different speed settings ranging from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM can be switched within seconds.
All-Metal Gear Case
Working in a construction environment means that there will be some impacts on the job. The all-metal gear case ensures that your tool can resist the strenuous conditions while prolonging its longevity. The handle is also covered with a rubberized mold to keep it from slipping.
Cost and Value
Not only does this tool come with all the great features typically found in other Milwaukee M18 products, such as Redlink technology, LED lighting and built-in fuel gauge, but it is also compatible with accessories from other brands.
12-speed settings
Comfortable rubber grip
LED lighting at the head of the tool
Overload and overheating protection
Need tools to change the blade
Quick discharge rate
8. Milwaukee Impact Wrench Kit
The specially designed Redlitium batteries are exclusive to Milwaukee tools and deliver 20% more power, two and a half more runtime, and lasts two times longer than the standard lithium-ion batteries. Its superior construction also protects it from harsh work environments.
4-Mode Drive Control
When working on projects that require accuracy and precision, it's vital that you have complete control over your tool. With the 4-mode drive control, you have full control over power and speed with mode 1 delivering 0-900 RPM, mode 2 delivering 0-1600 RPM, and mode 3 delivering 0-2500RPM.
Cost and Value
The M18 compact impact wrench kit provides you with everything you need to get the job done and adequately store your tool. It is the leading impact wrench in its class and features an electronic system that prevents overloading and overheating to avoid any damage to your battery and tool.
Features auto shut-off mode
Comes with 2 Redlithium batteries
Three different speed modes
Friction ring design
Some complaints about retaining ring
No battery gauge
9. Milwaukee Combo Tool Kit
Having high torque power is important for the tougher jobs and these tools have it. The M18 hammer drill/driver has 550-inch pounds of peak torque, and the M18 hex impact delivers 1400 inch pounds of torque for some amazing power.
Convenience
This cordless combo tool kit come is designed to make your life easier. It comes with two high capacity Redlithium batteries for continues work and a quick charge charger. The M18 work light features a 135-degree rotating head and a fold-away hook that allows for hands-free work.
Cost and Value
All the power tools feature Milwaukee's patented electronics, technologies, and innovative motor design that makes this company an industry leader. The superior ergonomic design makes them efficient and easy to use.
Includes two high capacity Redlithium Batteries
Safety features to protect the user and product
Comes with a strong contractor bag
Rubberized handles for comfort
Tools may get heat up
Some complaints about customer service
10. Milwaukee Compact Vacuum
Even with a powerful motor, the M18 compact vacuum can run up to 25 minutes when powered by Milwaukee's Redlithium battery pack. When using the High Demand 9.0 battery pack, you can get up to 43 minutes of use.
Convenient Accessories
The primary purpose of using cordless power tools is because they are more convenient. This compact vacuum comes with several accessories that give it more versatility, including a crevice tool, 4inch flexible hose, removable HEPA filter, two extension wands, and a floor tool.
Cost and Value
A clean workplace is a safe workplace, and with this compact vacuum cleaner, keeping your work area clean has never been easier. It comes with all the accessories you need and is strong enough to pick up metal shavings and drywall dust.
Clear view canister
Removable HEPA filter
Comes with several accessories
Long runtime
Does not include battery
Not as powerful as corded vacuums
Milwaukee has changed the power tool industry with its cutting edge technology and innovations. Their tools are rated as some of the best in the world, and they are a trusted brand among professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. When purchasing one of their power tools you can expect to get high quality and durable product that will not only make your job easier but also safer.
Criteria Used in Evaluation
Of The Best Milwaukee Power Tools
Consideration of the Milwaukee M18 Cordless Tools
Milwaukee’s M18 Cordless System is the company’s latest line of 18-volt cordless tools that combine superior ergonomics, professional-grade power and extreme performance to make them the most powerful tools in its class. Milwaukee has long been an industry leader by manufacturing innovative tools that deliver unmatched durability, power and runtime and their line of M18 tools are no exception. As the fastest growing 18-volt cordless tool line in the world, there are now more than 125 performance-driven power tools in the M18 family.
Milwaukee designed their M18 power tools as a compact, lightweight, and powerful solution for professionals in the trade looking to improve productivity with unrivaled performance. Powered by the company’s patented technologies, advanced electronics, and innovative motors, you can count on longer run-time and unmatched power. All of Milwaukee’s M18 products feature exclusive innovations you can’t get with any other brand, including REDLITHIUM Battery Pack, POWERSTATE Brushless Motor, and REDLINK PLUS, a built-in intelligence software and hardware.
Consideration of the RedLithium Battery
One of the biggest problems users faced when using standard lithium-ion battery powered tools was its effectiveness in providing enough power for some of the tougher jobs. Milwaukee designed the M18 REDLITHIUM Battery state-of-the-art electronics, pack construction and performance in order to provide more power, speed and run-time than other lithium-ion batteries. It’s lightweight, compact design allows it to fit in tight areas while reducing user fatigue. Other great features that you’ll find include:
- Built-in durability that keeps the battery cooler during long periods of use and consistent performance in temperatures below -18 degrees Celsius/0 degree Fahrenheit
- Has a runtime of 1.5 amp hours
- Managed by REDLINK technology which features overload protection to avoid damaging your battery and cordless power tool
- Discharge protection
- Individual cell monitoring and temperature management that prolongs your battery life
- Onboard fuel gauge which displays how much power your battery has left for less downtime
- Features Vibration and Impact protection rubber
- Compatible with over 40 Milwaukee M18 power tool
If you need something even stronger to take on those heavy-duty jobs, Milwaukee’s REDLITHIUM battery also comes in some upgraded versions:
REDLITHIUM XC
- Delivers 3.0 amp-hours of runtime
- All-weather efficiency
- Provides fade-free power in intense work area conditions
- Provides discharge protection to prevent battery damage
REDLITHIUM XC5.0
- Has 20% more power, 2 times more life, and 2.5 times more run time than your standard 18V lithium-ion battery
- Has a state-of-the-art design that keeps water from the electronics, protects against harsh environments, minimizes heat, and protects from drops and vibrations
- Works in extreme cold
- Features REDLINK Intelligence
- Provides fade-free power, even in extreme conditions
- Overload protection and discharge protection
- Compatible with more than 60 M18 cordless tools
REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT HD12.0
- Stays 50% cooler while providing 50% more power than the original REDLITHIUM battery pack
- Produces the same amount of power you get from 15A corded power tools
- Power increases in extreme cold conditions to make it the best performing cold weather battery pack ever built
- Produces the highest work per charge of any professional cordless power tool battery pack on the market
- Fully compatible with more than 150 M18 cordless power tools
Consideration on the M18 Lithium-Ion Battery Charger
Keeping your power tool battery charged is important in reducing downtime and taking advantage of the of its maximum power output potential. Like the REDLITHIUM battery, Milwaukee designed the M18 Lithium-Ion Battery charger with the most advanced technology available in order to give lower charge time and prolong your battery’s lifespan. It features a built-in indicator that displays the status of your battery so you know exactly how much energy it has at any given time. It also directly corresponds with the battery pack so it can monitor each individual cell voltage and control temperature to prevent overheating can possibly damage. It’s designed to work on both, standard lithium-ion batteries and M18 REDLITHIUM battery packs. For offsite jobs, an AC/DC charger is available. For faster charging and extra features, there are upgraded versions available as well:
M-18 6-Pk Sequential Charger – This is perfect for the professional who needs to charge more batteries at a time. The compacted design has built-in holes for hanging conveniently which allows you to post it on the wall and save space. You can charge up to six batteries at one time and is powerful enough to fully charge a REDLITHIUM compact battery in thirty-mins and a REDLITHIUM XC battery in just 60 minutes, helping increase productivity.
M18 & M12 Rapid Charger – For maximum productivity, this charger charges 40% faster and is compatible with both, M18 and M12 batteries. Its advanced REDLINK Intelligence system helps extend the life of your battery pack and optimize performance by monitoring temperature, charge statues, and cell voltage.
POWERSTATE Brushless Motor
Created with the professional tradesman in mind, Milwaukee’s POWERSTATE Brushless Motor is specially designed to deliver more torque, speed, and durability than all its competitors. In place of wearable brushes, it uses more copper and steel to reduce friction and heat buildup while increasing efficiency and motor lifespan. It also features better quality rare earth magnets, which allows it to work harder than other leading brands in its class. The advanced technology helps the motor convert energy into torque and power with less noise and heat for longer maintenance-free performance.
REDLINK Intelligence System
Milwaukee’s exclusive REDLINK Intelligence System was created to communicate with the motor, battery, and charger in an effort to protect your tools and battery whenever overheating or overloading is detected. During heavy-duty jobs, a motor’s RPM decreases and causes heat to build up, which will eventually melt the wiring and windings and cause the motor to fail. REDLINK prevents this and preemptively protects the battery and drill whenever overheating is detected. By continually monitoring these issues, it allows your tools to work at peak condition at all times.
Comfort
Comfort is paramount when working with power tools. If your cordless power tool is too heavy, unbalanced, or difficult to handle, fatigue can set in, and that’s when accidents happen. Milwaukee uses its innovative technology to pack in the most power possible in a lightweight, compact tool. Their M18 line of cordless power tool features superior ergonomic designs to ensure maximum comfort during extended periods of use. That includes perfect balance, rubberized handles, and LED lighting.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Milwaukee Power Tools
Q: Do Milwaukee power tools come with a warranty?
Yes, all of Milwaukee’s M18 Cordless Power Tools come with a five-year warranty. Battery packs and battery chargers also come with a warranty, but the length of that warranty varies with each model so you’ll want to make sure that you take your time and research this information before making a purchase. The warranty covers free replacements or repairs on products that have defects in workmanship or material. It does not include any products that have passed the warranty period or products that are defective due to abuse or normal wear and tear.
Q: What if my tool breaks? Does Milwaukee offer any type of repair services?
Milwaukee tries to make repairing your power tools as convenient as possible. They offer free FedEx shipping to a Milwaukee repair facility near you and promise to have your cordless power tool fixed within seven to ten days, whether you have a warranty or not. They have factory trained professionals who only use genuine Milwaukee parts to repair your tools. When your tool is fixed, they will return directly back to you, so there is no need to go anywhere else to pick it up.
Q: If I need to repair my Milwaukee power tool, why should I use their service center and how do I find one near me?
Nobody knows Milwaukee power tools better than Milwaukee. They guarantee that you’ll have your tool back within seven to ten days and all repairs under warranty will be done at no charge. They guarantee great prices and all repairs are done by professionally train technicians. There are hundreds of authorized service center located all across the United States and finding the one that is nearest to you is as easy as going on their official website and typing in your zip code or city.
Q: I purchased the Milwaukee M18 Orbiting Multi-Tool from a friend, and he no longer has the manual, how do I find out more about this tool?
Milwaukee’s official website offers several options when it comes to technical support. You can contact them via email or call the number they provide and speak to one of their highly trained technical support team members. You will also find and download an operator’s manual and material safety data sheet on their website.
Q: I have some older M12 batteries that are still good, can I use them on the M18 tools.
No, the M18 tools are only compatible with M18 batteries, and the M12 tools are only compatible with M12 batteries.
Sources
- Wikipedia – Power Tools
- The Tool Corner – The Tool Corner
