The industry leader in heavy-duty power tools, Milwaukee Tool began in 1924 with a focus on providing pro craftsman with superior equipment. Since then, their tools have been known for their extreme durability and first-class performance.
They have also consistently pioneered advances in the tool industry with non-stop innovation – even inventing the technology which first let Lithium-Ion batteries be used in power tools!
Milwaukee’s focus on professional tradesmen has resulted in numerous ground-breaking tools and technologies. The company designs, tests, and launches solutions which are universally embraced by the core trades.
Quality is Milwaukee’s highest priority, and their stringent testing process means that when you receive one of their signature red power tools, you know you’re holding the best!
Cordless vs. Corded
We touched on this a little bit. However, it is essential to consider when choosing your tool. Cordless options are going to be more portable since you won’t be connected to an outlet. However, you will have to deal with a battery, which can increase the weight of the tool.
Corded options are usually more powerful and cheaper (since you don’t have to purchase a battery). However, you will need to have constant access to an outlet. This can make it difficult to use on certain job sites and may mean that you need to purchase an extension cord or maybe even a generator.
What to know before you buy a Milwaukee cordless tool
There are a few different features to consider when choosing which milwaukee cordless tools you want to purchase. We know you likely don’t have much time, so we will quickly run through the most important features to consider.
Project
What sort of project you’re doing will have the most impact on what drill you should purchase. Some projects require specific drills. If you have a particular project you’re doing, you should buy a drill to perform those specific jobs.
On the other hand, if you aren’t planning on doing any specific projects, you should likely purchase a pack of drills. That way, you’ll have a few different drills on hand for whatever pops up. Most homeowners will be able to use our top pick for this purpose. It comes with two quality drills that are going to be useful on a wide variety of projects. For general home repairs, these are perfect.
Cost
Milwaukee cordless tools vary quite a lot in cost. Some are less than $100, but you can also find some that are hundreds of dollars. Usually, the cost is tied to the type of drill. Certain drills are more expensive than others. For example, impact drills tend to be more expensive than your usual electric drill.
However, the power and other features of the milwaukee cordless tools also matter. More powerful milwaukee cordless tools almost always cost more because they have higher-quality motors and use bigger batteries.
Batteries
Batteries are also going to cost you quite a bit. If you choose to get a cordless drill, you will likely have to purchase a battery as well. Some drills come with batteries, while others require you to purchase the battery separately. Batteries are very expensive. Even if a drill comes with a battery, you may decide to purchase a second one as a backup.
Power
The power of whatever milwaukee cordless tools you purchase does matter. Some are only somewhat powerful, while others can quickly drill through bricks and other rigid materials. Some are even able to drill through metal. Because of this, you should choose a milwaukee cordless tool that is powerful enough for whatever material you’re using.
While you might consider that more power is always better, this is not necessarily the case. More power usually means that the drill is going to be more expensive as well. It might also be heavier and bulkier than some low-power drills. This may limit the places you can use the drill and may make the power more of a hindrance than an advantage.
We recommend considering the projects you are likely to do and the materials you usually work with. Choose a milwaukee cordless tool that is more than enough for these materials, but don’t necessarily choose the highest power option around.
Durability
No one wants to purchase a milwaukee cordless tool only to find it broken after a few uses. Because of this, you should be relatively careful about the durability of any milwaukee cordless tools you purchase. The only way to find this information is by reading reviews like ours. Most companies will not advertise that their milwaukee cordless tools are less durable for obvious reasons.
We also recommend checking for warranties. Generally, if a milwaukee cordless tool has a 5-year warranty, then it is going to last for 5 years or longer. No company is going to put a warranty on their cordless tool that is more than the usual lifespan. Because of this, warranties can be a good indicator of a cordless tool’s lifespan.
You can also check to see what the milwaukee cordless tool is made out of, though it can be hard to draw a conclusion based on a drill’s material alone. For example, plastic tends to be less durable than types of metal. However, you cannot typically find metal drills (and you shouldn’t really look for them either, since they will likely be quite heavy).
Best milwaukee cordless tools of 2021:
1. Milwaukee M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Combo Kit (6-Tools)
The MILWAUKEE M18 6-Piece Combo Kit is powered by the M18 cordless system to deliver users more torque, power, and longer run-time than the competition. This M18 REDLITHIUM cordless system’s patented technology and electronics feature an innovative motor design and superior ergonomics to provide the most efficient blend of power, weight, and performance in the industry.
This 6 piece power tool kit includes the 1/2 in. M18 Compact Drill/Driver (2606-20), M18 1/4 in. Hex Impact Driver (2656-20), M18 Circular Saw (2630-20), M18 Sawzall (2621-20), M18 Grinder (2680-20), (2626-20) M18 Multi-Tool (2626-20), M18 3.0 Ah Battery (48-11-1828), M18 1.5 Ahr. Battery (48-11-1818), and an M12/M18 Dual Voltage Charger (48-59-1812).
Features:
- Compact Design: Allows greater accessibility in tight work spaces
- 1/4 in. Hex Quick-Connect Chuck
- Ergonomic, compact and lightweight design with soft-grip handle for operator comfort
- Counter Balance Mechanism reduces vibration for more control and less fatigue
- Up to 35% faster cutting speed
- Runs 11,000 to 18,000 OPM with Constant Power Technology
- Single unit simplicity: Quickly charges all M12 and M18 Battery Packs
- M18 grinder (2680-20): up to 35% faster cutting speed
- Includes: M18 1/2 in. compact drill/driver (2606-20), M18 1/4 in. hex impact driver (2656-20), M18 circular saw (2630-20), M18 SAWZALL (2621-20), M18 grinder (2680-20), (2626-20) M18 multi-tool, M18 3.0 Ah battery (48-11-1828), M18 1.5 Ah, battery (48-11-1818) and an M12/M18 dual voltage charger (48-59-1812) and tool bag
2. Milwaukee M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool
The M18 Oscillating Multi-Tool cuts up to 50% faster and delivers up to 2X more cuts per charge than the competitors. The Milwaukee M18 Multi-Tool has best-in-class speed and performance and offers you the versatility to complete problematic jobsite applications. The M18 multi-tool has constant Power technology to maintain blade speed for faster cutting during heavy applications and delivers up to 40% more run time with an M18 REDLITHIUM battery (sold separately).
The oscillating multi-tool is ideal for remodelers, flooring contractors, maintenance repair technicians and electricians to cut, grinds, sands and scrapes at odd angles and in difficult work areas. The 12-setting dial allows you to match the speed to the application for maximum versatility. Use it to make flush or plunge cuts, remove grout, sand in corners and tackle other awkward jobs. The multi-tool has a universal adapter and is compatible with most competitor accessories. This product includes 5 assorted sanding sheets, a sanding pad and a wood cutting blade.
Features:
- Powerful motor: delivers 11,000 OPM to 18,000 OPM
- REDLITHIUM Battery technology: superior pack construction, electronics and performance deliver more work per charge and more work over pack life than any battery on the market
- All-metal gear case: provides added jobsite durability
- Tool-free blade change: offers faster changes and no tools to misplace
- Built-in LED light: illuminates dark work spaces
- Compatible with all M18 batteries and chargers
- Part of the M18 system, featuring over 200 tools
3. M18 FUEL 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit W/ M18 Circular Saw
The Milwaukee 2997-22 two tool cordless combo kit delivers the most advanced 18-Volt cordless drilling and fastening technology in the industry. This kit features 2 M18 FUEL 18-Volt lithium-ion brushless cordless tools including a in. hammer drill and in. impact driver. M18 FUEL is fully compatible with the Milwaukee M18 18-Volt cordless system, featuring over 175 plus tools.
Included is the M18 FUEL 1/2 in. Hammer Drill (2804-20) that delivers Up to 60% More Power, is Up To 1.5 Shorter and is Up To 2X Faster Under Heavy Load. At 1,200 in./lbs. of torque and 6.9 in. L it has the power for demanding applications and allows access into tight spaces. Also includes is the M18 FUEL 1/4 in. Hex Impact Driver (2853-20) which is the Fastest, Most Compact, and Most Powerful tool in its class. At 2,000 in./lbs. of torque and 4.59 in. it increases user productivity for demanding fasteners and gives users more access to tight spaces.
M18 FUEL features the most advanced cordless technology in the industry, a POWERSTATE Brushless Motor, REDLINK PLUS Intelligence and REDLITHIUM Battery Technology, resulting in longer motor life, longer run time and more power. The Milwaukee M18 6 in. Circular Saw is designed to provide users with powerful lightweight cutting for a variety of applications including plumbing, electrical, framing, finishing, and carpentry.
Features:
- 2804-20 hammer drill: POWERSTATE brushless motor delivers up to 60% more power, is the most compact in its class at 6.9 in. L, and provides up to 2X faster speed under heavy load
- 2804-20 hammer drill delivers up to 1,200 in./lbs. of torque
- 2853-20 impact driver delivers up to 25% more torque with up to 2,000 in./lbs. to complete more demanding applications
- 2853-20 impact driver: most compact impact driver at 4.59 in. L providing more access in tight spaces
- REDLINK PLUS intelligence: ensures optimal performance and provides overload protection to prevent damage to the tool and battery during heavy applications while still maintaining compatibility across the entire M18 system
- Compatible with all M18 batteries and tools
- 5-year tool and 3-year battery warranty
- Includes: one M18 FUEL 1/2 in. hammer drill (2804-20), one M18 FUEL 1/4 in. hex impact driver (2853-20), two M18 REDLITHIUM XC5.0 battery, one M18 and M12 multi-voltage charger, 1 side handle, 2 belt clip, 2 bit holder, 1 carrying case, 1 2630-20 6-1/2 in. circular saw
4. M18 FUEL 16 in. 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Chainsaw
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 16 in. Chainsaw delivers the power to cut hardwoods, cuts faster than gas, and delivers up to 150 cuts per charge. The unit is designed to meet the performance, durability and ergonomic needs of professional landscape maintenance and power utility. The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor maintains speed under heavy loads without bogging down to outperform small gas engines and higher voltage systems.
REDLINK PLUS intelligence ensures maximum performance and protection from overload, overheating and over discharge. When paired with the M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT HD 12.0 battery, the unit delivers unmatched run-time in all applications. M18 FUEL technology allows the unit to reach full throttle in under 1-second providing ultimate control and productivity.
Features:
- Powerstate brushless motor: purposely built for the M18 FUEL 16 in. chainsaw to generate the power and performance of a gas engine up to 40 cc
- REDLINK PLUS intelligence: ensures optimal performance and provides overload protection to prevent damage to the tool and battery during heavy applications while still maintaining compatibility across the entire M18 system
- Compatible with all M18 REDLITHIUM battery packs, optimized for use with the M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT HD12.0 battery pack: provides 50% more power and runs 50% cooler versus standard REDLITHIUM HD packs: superior pack construction provides the industry’s best protection against jobsite conditions
- 16 in. Oregon bar and chain
- Variable speed trigger for full control
- Dual-stud for improved bar and chain retention
- Automatic oiler for proper chain lubrication and increased productivity
5. M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless SAWZALL Reciprocating Saw
The M18 SAWZALL Reciprocating Saw delivers exceptional durability, speed and run time. The all-metal gearing and REDLINK Intelligence provide ultimate performance and protection against job site conditions. The M18 SAWZALL Reciprocating Saw provides up to 30% faster cutting and 50% more run time in key applications versus leading competitors. The slim front-end design provides improved ergonomics, offering maximum comfort and control.
Features:
- Counterbalance mechanism reduces vibration for more control and less fatigue
- All-metal gearing and gear case provide maximum durability
- Lever action Quik-Lok blade clamp allows fast and easy blade changes
- Redlink intelligence advanced overload protects the tool against abusive conditions and provides maximum life
- Stroke length: 1-1/8 in.
- Protected by a 5-year limited Milwaukee warranty
- Compatible with all M18 batteries
6. M18 FUEL 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Hammer Drill/Driver
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2 in. Hammer Drill is the industry’s most powerful brushless battery powered drill, delivering up to 60% more power. Its cordless body is up to 1.5 in. shorter and up to 2 times faster under heavy load than other models. The all-metal ratcheting chuck is the best in class by providing increased bit grip strength and corrosion resistance.
The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor was purposely built for the M18 FUEL 1/2 in. Drill Driver to provide Up To 60% more power than the competitive set. Built-in REDLINK PLUS Intelligence ensures optimal tool performance and provides overload protection to prevent damage to the tool and battery during heavy applications while still maintaining compatibility across the entire M18 system. The REDLITHIUM High Output HD12.0 Battery Pack delivers more work per charger and more work over the life of the pack than competitors. In addition to the drill, this kit comes with a side handle, belt clip and bit holder.
Features:
- Up to 60% more power: 1,200 in./lbs. of torque
- Only 6.9 in. L for access into tight spaces and reduced fatigue
- 1/2 in. all metal ratcheting chuck
- LED on foot of tool for better lighting in dark spaces
- POWERSTATE brushless motor: purposely built for the M18 FUEL 1/2 in. hammer drill driver to provide up to 60% More Power than the competitive set
- REDLINK PLUS intelligence: ensures optimal performance and provides overload protection to prevent damage to the tool and battery during heavy applications while still maintaining compatibility across the entire M18 system
- Compatible with all M18 batteries
- 5-year tool warranty
- Includes: 1 M18 FUEL 1/2 in. hammer drill (2804-20), 1 side handle, 1 belt clip, 1 bit holder
7. M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2 in. Circular Saw
The Milwaukee M18 6½ in. Circular Saw is designed to provide users with powerful lightweight cutting for a variety of applications including plumbing, electrical, framing, finishing, and carpentry. The cordless circular saw is a high-performance tool that delivers the most durability in a cordless saw. Its powerful 3,500 RPM motor lets users quickly and easily cut through tough material such as LVL headers. Magnesium upper guards give users best-in-class durability to protect the blade from drops. The soft-grip handle is ergonomically designed to provide users with superior comfort and balance for easily controlled cuts. An easy-to-read aircraft aluminum shoe is lightweight, durable and gives users greater accuracy in rip cuts while using the lightweight cordless circular saw.
Features:
- Milwaukee 2630-20 offers a powerful motor generates up to 3,500 RPM to easily and quickly cut tough material
- Bevel capacity of up to 50
- Electronic brake stops the blade quickly
- Aircraft aluminum shoe helps improve accuracy
- Ergonomic, compact and lightweight design with soft-grip handle for operator comfort
- Part of the M18 System featuring over 200+ tools
8. M18 FUEL 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 4-1/2 in./6 in. Braking Grinder with Paddle Switch
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 4-1/2 in. – 6 in. Braking Grinder, Paddle Switch, No-Lock is the highest performing small angle grinder. It generates the power of a 13 Amp corded grinder, brakes all accessories under 3 seconds and has 6 in. grinding capacity. The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor provides users with 9,000 RPM and the power equivalent of a 13 Amp corded grinder, delivering industry-leading performance.
REDLINK PLUS intelligence ensures maximum performance and protects the angle grinder from overload, overheating and over discharge. The Rapid Stop Brake feature stops all accessories in under 3 seconds. Providing users high performance, advanced ergonomics and legendary durability, the M18 FUEL 4-1/2 in. – 6 in. Braking Grinder is designed to complete the toughest grinding, surface preparation and cutting applications with all 4-1/2 in. – 6 in. accessories.
The M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT XC6.0 Battery delivers users with more material removed per charge and unmatched run-time in all applications. Tool-free accessory changes using the FIXTEC nut and tool-free guard adjustments mean users will experience less downtime as they work. The cordless angle grinder’s grinding wheel is sold separately.
Features:
- POWERSTATE brushless motor: purposely built for the M18 FUEL 4-1/2 in. – 6 in. braking grinder to provide the power and performance of a 13 Amp corded grinder
- REDLINK PLUS intelligence: ensures optimal performance and provides overload protection to prevent damage to the tool and battery during heavy applications while still maintaining compatibility across the entire M18 system
- REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT XC6.0 battery pack: provides 50% more power and runs cooler versus M18 REDLITHIUM XC battery packs, superior pack construction provides the industry’s best protection against jobsite conditions
- Rapid stop braking feature stops all accessories in 3-seconds or less
- Metal housing and gearing system provides legendary durability
- 100% tool free: make all accessory changes and guard adjustments without a wrench for increased productivity
Compatible with all M18 batteries - Includes: 2980-20 M18 FUEL 4-1/2 in. – 6 in. grinder, paddle switch, no-lock, type 27 6 in. guard, side handle, FIXTEC nut, backing flange, wrench
9. M12 12-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Grease Gun
The MILWAUKEE M12 Cordless Grease Gun delivers the highest max operating pressure in its class to help users handle heavy-duty applications and eliminate downtime. The M12 REDLITHIUM battery lets users dispense up to seven grease cartridges per charge, providing up to 25% more pressure and more than 8,000 PSI operating pressure for heavy machinery, cold weather applications and clogged grease fittings. The cordless grease gun has a lightweight, ergonomic handle that offers users greater comfort during prolonged use and an onboard hose storage and shoulder strap for convenience with less mess.
Features:
- Powerful 12-Volt motor delivers over 8000 PSI max operating pressure
- Air bleeder valve: priming mechanism for quick flow
- Integrated hose storage and LED fuel gauge for convenience
- Superior handle balance and ergonomics: only 14 in. long and 7.2 lbs.
- Compatible with all M12 batteries
- Maximum durability: backed by a 5-year warranty
- REDLITHIUM advantage: productivity: 40% more run-time, 20% more speed, 20% more torque, fade free power; durability: operates down to 0/-18, runs 20% cooler, up to 50% more recharges, no memory effect
- M12 Lithium-ion system: compatible with over 80+ M12 lithium-ion tools for greater versatility in the workplace
10. M18 18-Volt 2 Gal. Lithium-Ion Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum
The M18 Cordless 2 Gal. Wet/Dry Vacuum provides users with a Powerful and Portable Wet/Dry Clean-up tool. A high performance motor creates powerful suction for both wet and dry applications. Its stackable design and organized on-board storage keeps all of the attachments inside the unit for convenient transport and storage. The 0880-20 comes with a flexible hose, crevice tool, utility nozzle and a certified HEPA filter. With 30 plus minutes of run time on a M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH DEMAND 9.0 Battery Pack, its ideal for extended spot and area clean up.
Features:
- 45 CFM
- 32 in. of water lift
- Attachments included: 6 ft. flexible hose, crevice tool, utility nozzle and HEPA filter
- Stackable tool box design
- Built-in blower port
- HEPA filter included
- Hose diameter: 1-1/4 in.
- 2 Gal. capacity
- Includes: 0880-20 2 Gal. vacuum, 6 ft. flexible hose, crevice tool, utility nozzle, HEPA filter
FAQs
Are Milwaukee tools any good?
Milwaukee Tools is a legend in the industry and earned this honor by leading the way in the development of innovative solutions for the trades for more than 90 years. They specialize in working with real users to understand their needs on the jobsite. The results are ground-breaking tools that deliver the best solutions for professionals and DIY-ers alike.
What is the warranty on Milwaukee power tools?
Every Milwaukee power tool comes with a 5-year (limited) warranty. This covers manufacturing defects and does not cover normal wear and tear. No registration is necessary as the warranty is based on date of purchase. Ottawa Fastener Supply will keep track of the power tools that you purchase with us. See for a complete breakdown of Milwaukee’s Warranty policy.
Is Milwaukee FUEL worth it?
Yes. The FUEL line of tools was developed and engineered to withstand heavy-duty jobsites. They run cooler, deliver more power, provide longer runtime, and charge faster than Milwaukee’s M18 REDLITHIUM line.
Do Milwaukee tools have GPS?
No. Instead, Milwaukee already designed the tracking ability in the One Key Tools or you can add a Milwaukee Tick to other tools and items to use with the One Key Tracking App.