You Should Buy 12V Instead of 20V… HERE’S WHY!

[@youtubechannel12371]

It’s refreshing to see a transition in the conversation around tools from “I need the biggest, baddest, most powerful tools possible” to “Maybe we just use the tools that make the most sense for the specific application.”

[@PLAYBOYNOCOOLANT]

That’s right I love my 12v for my automotive use. Haven’t had the need to upgrade to bigger power yet as I also don’t do suspension or anything really mainly interior work and basic maintenance

[@jonathangarzon2798]

@fartpoobox ohyeah you obviously have never tried to use an impact on screws in metal. Bolt heads shear off with a sneeze if you aren't paranoid in how you drive them. Most Bolt heads also not rated for impact shock so you damage them on first drive in. But most people with your mindset never actually pay attention to who is going to have to pull out those fasteners or take off that hose clamp or in general to any work on any of the stuff you touch after you personally leave.

[@actualperson9628]

More power is always better. It’s the capability in a smaller, lighter package that is changing the convo.

[@jonathangarzon2798]

@@actualperson9628 yeah no because when I'm taking off 5mm bolts I always say damn why can't I have more than 300ft/lbs of torque.

[@jonathangarzon2798]

@fartpoobox ohyeah damn you must be the first person to not strip or shear any bolts in their working experience. Congrats teach us all

[@theodorejohnkaczynski9442]

M12 systems for the sheer fact the 3/8 and 1/2 stubby impacts can fit just about anywhere without the battery smacking everything

[@throughmylens5127]

Just broke down and bought the 3/8 stubby and it knocked lugnuts off easily

[@bobthompson4319]

have you used or have the right angle impact? I'm stuck between the m12 and the kobold because the Kobalt does 300 lbs in the reviews.

[@theodorejohnkaczynski9442]

@@bobthompson4319 I personally have not but I've pulled 350ft lb torqued mast nuts off forklifts with zero issues out of m12 1/2 stubby. I think it's like 1-5/16 socket and it handles it good

[@frankmfeb13]

@@throughmylens5127 that makes me happy. I just got the stubby 3/8 on sale for 129, waiting for it to ship still, its on backorder. I already have the m18 1/2 impact wrench, I was scared the stubby wouldn't have enough power.

[@RiverSLV]

@@bobthompson4319 kobalt is junk that will fall apart

[@ChurBro451]

When i started my building apprenticeship in the late 70s , the first cordless drill came out, it was the Makita 7.2 cordless drill, it took me 1 mth to pay it off , i still have that drill with 1 battery & charger that came with it, but has now been in retirement over the last 40yrs & have kept it for sentimental reasons only ,it's been my little baby

[@rtgray7]

I love that I can watch this channel and not be afraid my family might walk in and hear or see something inappropriate. Thanks PTR! Great info today also.

[@Kincentc]

I love that I can watch whatever I want and not worry about what my family thinks about a little bit of drill or hammer humor. Wild.

[@contessa.adella]

…and over hearing guys comparing the size of their tools is absolutely not going to be misconstrued….of course😂

[@LegendaryWoke]

Right on I hate the senseless vulgarity in today's creatures

[@Ghryst]

i love that i am not in debt cos my wife is constantly trying to keep up with the jones's, or divorcing me and taking half my shit and the kids when she meets someone who earns $2 an hour more. have fun with that blue-pill bullshit. freedom>family

[@dalleymd1977]

As a electrician that always had 18v Milwaukee and DeWalt, recently I switched to Milwaukee 12v and to a guy climbing a ladder or in a crawl space 12v is a game changer. My opinion is that the right tool for the job is based on the job at hand and it's location.

[@grantdeisig1360]

I actually like the M12 Fuel circular saw for it's light weight and ease of use. Sure it's not as powerful as the M18 Fuel, but as long as your not cutting stacks of lumber, M12 will get the job done just fine.

[@miguelmartinez-kr7ps]

Emphasis on the "light weight" that's the best part for repeated small jobs

[@edmorris5688]

I have the m12 saw been using it for 4 years I do remodeling and handyman work this saw is my go to. I have makita 36v rear handle and standard but the m12 is a beast

[@scottelia8723]

I want to get that. I love my m12 tools

[@Ian-Johnson]

I use the m12 saw with the 6amp battery. Even then it's basically a sheet good breakdown saw to kick around the truck just in case. Honestly dont like cutting 2x4s or anything larger with it as it sounds like I'm asking to much of it when it runs. If I'm onsite no power il use the m18 saw with the 12amp it came with. Rapid charger plugs into the truck. I know this is sacrilege but still prefer a corded wormdrive for alot of things. I like the torque and that the saw doesnt bog down under load. Some sidewinders rev so high at freespinning they sound like they're going to rattle-fly apart [skilsaw sidewinder] dewalt makes a good sidewinder we've had good with with.

[@grantdeisig1360]

@@martylucas8557 So you just go to the return counter with the item you don't want and ask for a refund? They don't care about the free tool?

[@jjparody8257]

For a small engine mechanic like me, 12V is ideal because you can run many (but not all) screws, bolts, & nuts down without accidentally stripping them from over tightening. Plus, most fasteners can be removed easily with 12V.

[@Surmoka]

There is a thing called clutch on drills, you know

[@briand2195]

To be honest most good 12v impacts will carry you pretty well through MOST automotive applications. I've used a m12 stubby to remove rusty old motor mount bolts on a f150. And the m18 high torque carries me all the way through kingpins and lug nuts on class 7/8 trucks

[@Saw_Squatch]

I'm also a small engine technician and that DeWalt 12v 1/4" screwdriver is my go to for 90% of the stuff I do as I handle most of the handheld ope. The adjustable chuck works like a fast and dirty torque wrench, the lack of impact is safer on plastic/delicate components and it's so compact when you're working in tight spots like snowblowers and lawnmowers.

[@shadeshiest22]

if you work on ANY engines, the M12 Stubby impact wrench is KING

[@benperkins2929]

@@shadeshiest22 DCF850 3/8" converted with a 1.7ah powerstack is king.

[@thepitpatrol]

We run a farm. We use power tools a lot and are hard on them. I used Dewalt for a long time and then began to invest in the Milwaukee platform. Started with the intention of doing all M18, somehow I ended up with M12 impact and drill. I was sold after a few uses. The M12 does most of the stuff we need. A few exceptions are we have M18 impact and 18 grinder. The M12 platform is unbelievable powerful and reliable.

[@MobiuSphere]

I think for most DIY projects you really only need a cordless drill and/or driver. Corded cutting tools are more than sufficient for most homeowners, since they are by definition working around the house they will generally have access to a plug

[@davidperry4013]

DIYers that want to go the premium brand option when it comes to drills and impact drivers, go for the Milwaukee M12 Fuel.

[@jeffsprague96]

If you can afford/justify the luxury, having both 12v and 18v platforms is phenomenal. Certain tools are well suited to either voltage. M12 and Makita LXT are my go to, and I break out each set equally as often and can tailor to the task I'm about to go perform

[@wayward-saint]

I have Makita LXT, love it, but jumping into m12 for the rotary tool. Thinking about splurging for the installation drill/driver. Any other standout m12 tools that you feel fills in gaps in the Makita lineup?

[@mischavanengelen5343]

Hydraulic impact driver is a real pleasure to use, if you have the option. The new 3d laser is also a must if you are in the market for one. For my work, being a electrician, the compact bandsaw, right angle impact/impact wrench/ drill are really doing the trick

[@brandonhoffman4712]

You should check out the newer m18 fuel impact guns. It has 4 settings. It's basically a multi impact of some sort.

[@brandonhoffman4712]

​@@mischavanengelen5343 I don't like the m18 fuel hydraulic impact. It has half the rpms, and half the max torque compared to the non hydraulic. I don't know if the hydraulic one has the multiple power settings that the non hydraulic has either. Mine can ram it home or be beautifully delicate. "Like a leaf on the wind" - serenity

[@mondotv4216]

The higher voltage means you’re drawing less amps, meaning the wiring and electronics can be sized smaller. So double the voltage instead of using 8 gauge wire you can use 16 gauge (half the size) and have the same amount of resistance. The resistance is what causes the heat.

[@bennygerow]

Hi, new homeowner/DIY'er here. Do higher amps actually FEEL more powerful like with RPM's and longer projects? Thanks.

[@imperialsecuritybureau6037]

@@bennygerow if anything it would be the opposite, higher amps mean shorter battery cycles (as well as shorter battery life, the lower the current load the better) and voltage is what determines the speed of a motor (under no load, a motor will spin at a speed which is directly related to the voltage supplied, so a lot of motors come with a kv rating - velocity constant - which is how many RPMs you get per volt.) However, motor torque is dependent on amps. A motor setup for higher current will have more power and torque overall. Generally, higher voltage is better because of what MondoTV described as well as the above points I mentioned. A 12v (3 cells in series/3S) battery supplying 180w (15A) with the same cells as an 18V (5S) battery supplying 180w (10A) will last 2/3rds as long and generate more heat in the process, degrading the batteries and the rest of the components faster.

[@silicon212]

8 gauge to 16 gauge is not 'halving the current'. 8 gauge to 12 gauge is the half point (40 amps to 20 amps typical). But I get what you're saying.

[@bigbrother9531]

Double the voltage, half the amps. Sounds good. But then how many batteries in series-parallel is needed to make the higher voltage. Then it gets heavier.

[@cyclemoto8744]

​@@imperialsecuritybureau6037 Higher amperage is beneficial for more power . If you don't need the power go with 12v. If you need more power, go with a higher voltage. Higher amps does not equate to shorter battery cycles. You're confusing amperage with power (Watts)

[@awesomeness1113]

Loved the discussion guys. As a commercial electrician I use both. M12 for running Tek screws and fasteners all day plus the subcompact bandsaw for pipe. I use the M18 for task lighting, circular saw, full size bandsaw, hammer drill, drill and impact for driving into wood, concrete or things like 1/2" concrete anchors. I couldn't do without my M18's but my M12's really save on my body and space for the low demand repetitious tasks. I think DIY was meant to describe anyone who does a project over hiring a professional. With that in mind I'd think 18v for DIY. For anyone looking for the ability to drill holes and hang pictures, TV's, ECT, things that don't constitute DIY, then they can get a cheap drill from Walmart.

[@Nicky14P]

As a DIYer/hobbyist, I currently only have Dewalt 20v max tools right now such as an impact driver, drill, and reciprocating saw. I even have the leaf blower which is great. I’m actually going to switch over to a 12v drill and impact driver largely because of the size and the fact that they can do all the tasks that I have while being smaller and lightweight. I’m sure a 12v reciprocating saw would work for me, but I like the idea of having longer runtime and plan on sticking with the 20v max at this time. Also, don’t be afraid of corded tools. I was given a Dewalt oscillating tool and a circular saw and they work great for me because I don’t use them all the time and when I do I can plug them in and get the job done and know that I will have consistent power throughout. I know that was long winded, but I hope that this helps someone!

[@usarmyprepper]

I use m12 stuff for the tool box in my truck. M12 hatchet, fuel drill, fuel impact, 3/8's stubby, 3/8s fuel ratchet, 5 1/2 circular saw, jig saw, recip and multi tool. All fit in 2 ridgid brand small tool boxes and still take up no room in my truck bed. The m12 circular saw works pretty good. I use it all the time.

[@ABH313]

Excellent discussion 👍 I'm on the DeWalt platform and have tools on all 3 lines. 12v, 20v, & 60v...love them all. 12v is definitely the go to nowadays. Only pull out the bigger tools when they are actually needed.

[@charliebrown710]

I buy what I need when it’s on special haha. 20V and 12V whatever I see works best! I have no preference, if I could I’d have ever tool lol!

[@thebigdoghimself]

Yeah but having multiple battery packs to worry about kinda sucks. Right now I have Dewalt 20v, Hitachi 18v, Milwaukee 12v, Ryobi 18v, ego 56v and snapper, can't remember what the snapper runs at but I think it's 52v or around there. I wish someone made a battery adapter that actually worked.

[@rickybobbyracing9106]

@@thebigdoghimself Dude yes - I got M12, Dewalt, Ryobi 18v, Ryobi 40v, Craftsman, Rigid. Geez... it's getting out of hand.

[@miguelmartinez-kr7ps]

Same, I got dewalt 12v max, 20v max, 18v. Milwaukee 12v. And snap-on 18v. Kinda irritating at times with the different batteries and chargers

[@doalex2085]

Ha, Ha, Ha, Y’all’s story is similarly to mine ! What ever was on sale! And a good deal! Started with Milwaukee m-12 all ready had DeWalt drill, then Kobalt came in to the pitcher have about 12 tools from them ! Bosh freak went on sale had to have that ! Now I’m thinking 🤔 about Makita, from watching KZbin videos , i think 🤔 maybe collecting tools has become a hobby, rather than actually using the dam tools!

[@Ghryst]

so, you're a disorganised money waster. got it

[@peterthomas3882]

I’m using M12 for automotive work, M18 for most construction. I have a few M12 to use around the house, and I carry M12 in our RV for on-the-go tools. Both are great whatever way you slice it.

[@rustyshakleford5230]

I love my m12 propress tool. Residential plumbing rarely goes above 1 1/4' and the 3" m12 cutoff tool is perfect for cutting old rotten cast iron.

[@crazymayne69]

I've found my M12 circular saw great in certain situations. When framing up structures it's not the greatest for constant cuts of 2x lumber, but if your working overhead or on a roof and need to make a quick cut it's incredibly convenient.

[@philipdove1705]

Needs a gen 2 with a rafter hook . Because it's so small and convenient I usually carry it up a ladder in a roof situation

[@brandonhoffman4712]

I found my m18 non fuel 6.5" skill saw to be a piece of trash with a bent baseplate. I stand by m18 fuel products. I haven't looked @ the skill saw but I bet it's good. I've seen 2 in the wild just never give it a run down. It's a full size 7 1/4" though. My m18 fuel impact is frigging crazy! It has 4 settings, can be super delicate and stop itself, or like a mama bear, or papa bear mode! And a self tapping setting that stops it from impacting until it drills through. The my key version you can go on your phone and set the torque value, and it has anti theft, but it's an extra 100 bucks...

[@noelv1976]

As an apartment maintenance technician, I'm pretty happy with my M12 Surge driver and oscillating tool. I occasionally use my M18 circ saw and M18 drill, but for the most part, the M12 is perfect for my situation.

[@mytuberforyou]

I agree except that if you have the FUEL oscillating M12 tool, the battery lasts for literally two minutes. Every time I grab that tool I have to look around for batteries. The surge impact that I almost didn't buy because of the cost is great,

[@not-a-raccoon]

I'm an apartment maintenance tech too, and I completely agree. The size and weight are perfect for keeping in my tool bag. The M12 tools will do 90 precent of what the 18v tools will do, but for much less size and weight.

[@not-a-raccoon]

@@mytuberforyou I have the fuel oscillating tool too, and I haven't had any issues with the battery not lasting.

[@OShackHennessy]

@@mytuberforyou I used the oscillating saw with the 2ah batteries and they seemed to draw down quickly. Now I use a 4+ah battery and like it better. I mostly use it for grout removal.

[@randysmith9636]

I am a big fan of the M12 Fuel system. I have a few of them including the new Fuel multi tool. I had my Milwaukee 18v Fuel hammer drill and impact driver stolen. I had just started a handicap ramp job when some low life broke into the truck and got the 18v system. My HD store did not have the same kit in stock so I grabbed the M12 fuel kit. I built that entire project with the M12 fuel kit. Including using the hammer drill quite a few times Driving a large box of 3" deck screws. Drilling through the 4×4s and joists for the carriage bolts. Driving a bunch of 3.5" lag bolts. The list goes on. I was highly impressed with the power and ability of the M12 Fuel system. This was a large job complete with a landing for a 90° turn to follow ADA guidelines. While the Milwaukee M12 Fuel system is probably not designed for this extreme use I can attest to its ability to carry it out. I highly recommend it. For a home owner that dosen't really need the 18-20 volt systems but wants something that could do anything they wanted, including building a deck. This system is more than capable

[@jmackinjersey1]

I think the optimal level/word you used here is FUEL, or pretty much any tool brand that has a pro grade level. Had you simply bought the Milwaukee brushed, or even their brushless M12 line, I'm wondering if you would have seen the same results? Or if you would have had similar results, but at a little slower pace?

[@amnelruin4837]

I buy m18 because I see my coworkers spending 3 minutes to cut one peice of conduit with there m12 while talking about how it gets the job done the same. The Sawzall kinda depends on the blade but fresh blade to fresh blade it feels like I'm cutting atleast twice as fast vs. The m12. The bandsaw seems like 3 or 4 times faster. Don't even get me started on holesaws on those tiny m12 drills.

[@planetjerm]

The higher voltage bandsaws also have larger openings which makes them MUCH more flexible.

[@thebigdoghimself]

I have Dewalt 20v and Milwaukee M12. I generally reach for the M12 fuel. In fact , like this morning, I only reached for my 20v impact because I could not remember where I left my m12 impact.

[@frankmfeb13]

I have a couple m18 drills, a bunch of m12 stuff, and a ryobi set I bought because I needed a bunch of power tools and it was cheap. I've used the ryobi stuff a handful of times, im always using my milwaukee tools

[@fredygump5578]

You guys missed something--the motor on my M12 impact driver is actually BIGGER than my M18. For a long time I stayed away from 12v tools, because there used to be a huge power difference between 12v and 18v. But with new lithium batteries and brushless motors, the gap between the two is much smaller than it used to be.

[@waltermh111]

@Craig Dendy I actually would like you hear what you are getting at here. But I have seen reviews of all the brushless, and the power difference is still large between the less and more powerful tools. The motor isnt everything. Being able to push more power into them is everything. And a bigger motor can mean less efficient. Its all dependent on the architecture. but yeah, the power source means so much, which is the whole point of needing more volts or amps.

[@brandonhoffman4712]

I stand by my m18 fuel impact gun (non hydraulic) 2,000 rpm, 2,000in/lb max torque. Yet it has 4 settings, so it can do perfect little baby taps and stops itself. If you splurge the extra money for the my key version. You can go on your smartphone and dial in it's torque value making it like an auto torque wrench... plus it has anti theft features. The next model will probably have a human attatched!

[@peterwachter7753]

As a counter play on the Olympics Motto I expect power cordless hand tools to evolve “Smaller, Lighter, Stronger”. The latest M12 Fuel brushless line is a good case in point. Sure, if you’re an iron worker 80 volts and magnetic capture is spot on. For many of us, as so clearly stated in a majority of the comments throughout, nimble, precise, manageable are the watchwords. Bigger is better for pure Miller Time boasting is a fading tradition.

[@losbush]

The DeWalt 12v Extreme screwdriver is the handiest tool I own. I love it.

[@ashermtusoff1261]

I started out at 16 with m12 and now am 19 and still use m12 and love it I work as a tech on forklifts but work on my home all time on remodeling my house and I have m12 tools out the Wazzu now for everything and does everything I need

[@ChromeArty]

I owned Millwaukee when they had their 14.4v line, then had some dewalt stuff, then Makita 18v (which is still my main gear), but recently got into M12 from Millwaukee... I'm blown away! Ive used power tools for 25 years now. I'm no neophyte. I cannot recommend their M12 line enough! 🤩

[@mohawkman2888]

I can agree somewhat with augmenting with 12v tools in certain instances of very tight spacing in specialty trades such as hvac/service techs/plumbing. Personally, after 38 years as a master carpenter/builder by trade, and a "can fix almost anything" guy in my off time, I have never found anything that i couldn't use my 18v Milwaukee tools for through judicious use of adapters/extensions/swivels that I couldn't accomplish using hand tools. To me the lack of power and versatility in a 12v tool doesn't justify the added cost and headache of having to buy, carry, and maintain them.

[@marcburns508]

Yea, same here. plus I have to have a second type of battery...

[@waltermh111]

@@marcburns508 Yeah, this idea of going 12v seems to be for people who dont mind taking up extra space and cost having 2 versions of each tool, just because one is 2 pounds lighter and a tiny bit smaller. I sympathize, but everybody is admitting 12v is only good for most things, not all. So its nice to have if you dont mind using the extra space or cost, but this discussion would be less edgy if they changed the title to something more suggestive instead of demanding. Yeah, 12v isnt bad at all, but I mainly need these when traveling for work, and I prefer a tool that does it all, instead of that only does most. But thats just me. If you have a shop, I get it. Space and cost dont matter as much.

[@SINE382]

As someone who maintains 16 properties and does everything from plumbing, moderate carpentry, hvac, and electrical I love my 12v tools for the light weight, compact size in my bag and general ergonomics. Also helps I got an insane deal on a 4 tool m12 fuel tool set but I’m not complaining

[@freedom_aint_free]

Once a installed 4 rows of seats on a big van (involving drilling and tapping the hardened steel legs of the seats) with only a Bosh 12v drill that are even more compact than those mentioned, and they were brushed the nowadays brushless are even more efficient and powerful.

[@dushk0]

I have had a 12V cheap mini SDS hammer for a couple of years, maybe not as powerful but powerful enough, light, and comfy, router and multi-tool pretty much the same...best description for 12V is "it'll do, little piggy, it'll do" xD

[@eee1011111]

it was a fascinating professional talk, that i didn't know i needed to hear. thank you

[@Protoolreviews]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@nickstahl1920]

10:20 he nails it! Thank you! I've been saying this forever when I hear the 18v/20v debate come up.......why doesn't 12v bother people the same way?

[@Handyman247llc]

This was very informative and well explained, took a lot of my battery size confusion and made it easier to understand from the user side of the equation. Thank You

[@pittwm]

Everyone wants the biggest and baddest until they can’t get into tight spots. I just bought into the M12 bc of this reason.

[@benjamynty1168]

1:29 perfectly said. Most people I know own 18v or 20v. It takes time or maturity to realize that the 12v is perfect for many installs. It’s the ideal handyman size. You can wear it all day and not notice it. Always there when you need it.

[@Jdrichardson35christ]

Wrong. Most people but the m12 it's cheaper. These clowns don't know what they're talking about

[@inteallsviktigt]

Why have two battery types and two equal tools when you can have one. If you need 12 it’s easier to just grab a corded one

[@patty109109]

@@inteallsviktigt that’s just silly. Corded is a pita.

[@TopCat2021]

I started with Makita 9.6 volt a long time ago.

[@jhstyer]

My father who just turned 71 had his makita 9.6v die. I replaced it with the dewalt xtreme 12v because of it's size and weight. For what he does now, it was a logical choice. Price and power made perfect sense for a reolacement.

[@kefwals8722]

I'm not a huge Milwaukee guy. But I really like my M12 drill and impact. They are nice little drills that work great for cabinet and finish work stuff. I don't have the fuels. I bought them 10years ago in black Friday for $99 for the combo kit. And they are still going strong

[@peterfitzpatrick7032]

Seems to be you guys are saying if you have 20v tools its nice to have 12v for the lighter work (punchouts) but my takeaway is you can do ALL your work with 20v only but not the other way around... if you have a 12v tool platform you also NEED the higher voltage system for getting you through a whole day doing hard work. Just my 2volts... 😎👍☘️🍺

[@horrr0r]

Thank you for titling this video this way. I was having a really tough time trying to find out this information, and when I saw the title of this video, I was like “YES! Finally! That’s what I want to know!” Thanks for making this information easily findable and searchable!

[@dominirican7403]

As a luxury apartment maintenance technician in a building with over 200 units, I’ve learned a 12v, especially the 12v fuel lineup is super useful. Light and almost as powerful as 18v. My 12vs do everything I need, literally from concrete to cabinets. Takes a bit longer but speed isn’t important in our field. Accuracy and precision is. And working hvac as well, it feels great to no longer carry 18v. The bag is heavy enough, 2 pounds makes a difference over time. Only 18v I have is my leaf blower. Even my vacuum is 12v from Milwaukee.

[@bertoguzman2028]

As a plumber for 30+ years ,I have reverted back to corded for remodeling and sewer repairs no worries about charging and change outs ,and M12 for day to day

[@whitechris720]

I run 18v makita primarily. But I have been getting more and more 12v milwaukee. It started with the 12v installation drill drive (absolutely love this tool). Now I have several 12v lights, stapler, engraver and the 12v fuel pex expansion tool (another great tool).

[@WolvesHart79]

As a new homeowner I had to start getting into DIY projects and landed on M12 Fuel drill/driver kit with free multitool and they have been great...been able to use a 1/2" bit on the hammer drill to drill into concrete for a gate drop rod. So far I'm really digging the M12 Fuel line so I may go for a few of the other tools in the line (have my eye on the hackzawl) but for anything I need more power for I'm going corded i.e. circular saw. For home use I don't see the benefit of going all in to a battery line when corded works just fine if not better.

[@frankmfeb13]

I've been looking at the m12 and m18 hakzall im stuck idk what to get

[@brandonhoffman4712]

The m18 fuel hackzall is nice and smooth compared to the m18 non fuel one. Also more powerful. I suggest m18 fuel products. My impact is next level with 4 modes from delicate to wild and a self tapping screw setting. The hammer drill is a hammer drill when needed and has a nice optional handle if things are critical. The multi tool is variable speed with great power, I'm normally running on #4. And they all work with my compressor, skill saw, blower, sucker, hackzall. I do think for home use though. The m12 fuel is probably great. I will say though. Only buy fuel. I bought a non fuel skill saw I don't like (baseplate warped) cheap flat metal with no structure. And a non fuel m12 drill. Rotates so slow I want to throw it in the drink. Wouldn't use it on my bicycle (it's intended use!) Gave it to my aunt for her home kit as it slightly beats using a screw driver, slightly.

[@tylercousins7779]

I bought Milwaukee 28volt system in 2002. I still have some of them and use them daily. I also have 12v and 18v. There is a MASSIVE difference in their capabilities. If you want to do 80% of the work with no issues, get 18v. If you need lightweight and convenience get 12v. If you’re a professional and need the tool to easily get the big jobs done then get the 28v.

[@RobertWill-uq3iv]

DIY guy here. I build a lot of stuff with screws and construction lumber. The lumber needs to be pre-drilled, so I like a 12v drill and impact so I don't have to switch bits. But every DIYer should also have a reasonably powerful 20v drill, cause when you need it, you need it. I think most of us would end up (budget permitting) with a mix of 12 and 20 volts.

[@jctai100]

As a sparky, the m12 fuel bandsaw all day over the m18!

[@DMSparky]

Fellow sparky I had the m18 fuel band saw and it was so freaking large and heavy it was a massive pain to carry around. Switched it with the smaller fuel metal cutting circ saw.

[@douglasdangelo6755]

I run a yacht restoration and rigging business. I almost exclusively use the M12 line of tools for all of my rigging and most of my yacht restoration work with a couple of exceptions. The compact design make these tools perfect for hauling up the mast. If you look at the M12 fuel line you will find that the power of the gen 2 and 3 tools are nearly the same as the older style of M18 or 20 volt max. The 12 volt tools will meet the needs of more than 95 percent of people and even most contractors

[@maykelcj]

I have been installing cabinets for 3 years now and my M12 is my go-to. The 12v Max was my first impact driver and still love it, but now I have a few M12 tools I use.

[@jessielawrence2871]

This Is Really Bizarre. I had to double and triple check the date of this video. I just bought the m12 hammer drill, driver and stubby impact three days ago. As an engineer, working around 12v on the regular, I just feel stupid I didnt realize these tools were up to the task sooner. I am a burly guy but I have been lugging around all this extra weight and bulk for no reason. LOL

[@jessielawrence2871]

@@Protoolreviews The logic is undeniable!!!

[@TerryManitoba]

As a home owner and an RV'er handy man. I am perfectly happy with the M12 platform. If I need more power I go electric. I have a dozen M12 powered devices & it is so nice to know if one of the batteries run out you can always steel one from another tool. Gold Son GOLD

[@robertwoodworth9463]

I bought a 12 volt Milwaukee screw gun (not a drill) yrs ago when I was installing vinyl siding on my house to drive in truss head screws. Works great plenty of torque and slow enough to control it. I’ve got a whole outfit of makita 18 volt tools but at work I use the 18 volt subcompact kit. Use the impact to clean out threads and to change t-nuts on a 3 jaw chuck. The drill has a 1/2 inch chuck and works on anything I need to do. Absolutely love the kit but I use my little Milwaukee screw gun for small jobs around the house. It’s a great little tool.

[@tombotting3345]

I’m a self employed HVAC contractor I have a mix of M12 and M18. They both have there place. My go to impact is the m12 fuel gen 3.

[@tyrrellroach5872]

So I’m going to disagree with what you guys said about what most home owners need. Most home owners don’t have or need 30 different battery powered tools. I would say that most only need a small drill and maybe an impact driver. They also don’t generally need tons of power. Look at most consumer based tools. Black and decker and such. They are largely 3/8 drive drills that aren’t too fast or too strong. I would say most home owners would be thrilled with the power and usability of dewalt or Milwaukee

[@jmackinjersey1]

You do realize that both Milwaukee and DeWalt make an entry level, dare I say home owner grade and even a pro-sumer grade/level tool, just below their top of the line tools, like their FUEL (or which ever sticker is on the DeWalt, depending on which store you're buying it from, as they're too confusing). Lithium Brushed, Brushless, FUEL. Each one has their price point and performance rating/output.

[@mannyvalero3250]

You: *Statement* Me: 👁️👄👁️ 25+ Ryobi collection I use all around the house from yard to vehicles

[@bennygerow]

@@mannyvalero3250 you: an outlier Him: what MOST homeowners need

[@Jujoji]

@@bennygerow dude, there's a good reason that Ryobi sells a ton of multi tool sets every Christmas and father's day. If "dad" or "mom" is even marginally diy inclined they're going to have at least half a dozen tools. Now, you can play that elitist, gatekeeping, I know better than a homeowner what they need, bullshit all you want; but this pretty fucking easy to start justifying buying those tools once you've got s good battery platform. Ryobi alone, I own an angle grinder, an inflator, a recip-saw, three Bluetooth radio/speakers, a caulking gun, a flashlight; am considering a trim router (Ryobi or Ridgid), a Dremel style tool, etc. Ryobi, and by extension Hart, have a very good idea what the average home owner can actually use and need.

[@fixerupperer]

A homeowner, diyer often needs some sort of saw/s in addition to drill drivers. Plus ope and an assortment of other hoysehold things which may run on the same platform. Like inflator, blower, lights, radio, fan, inverter/charger.

[@carterjohn2151]

Here’s my view, I’m a landscape contractor and I use The Dewalt hammer drill with an auger for planting, and I own the equivalent Milwaukee and it won’t drive the auger in the ground.

[@tcphll]

Most of my cordless tools are Makita. I recently bought a Milwaukee Fuel combo with a 12V impact driver and hammer drill during a sale at Home Depot. They're great and work for most things around the house. My 18V Makita impact driver is actually slightly smaller than my 12V Milwaukee, minus the battery. However, that battery size does make a difference when doing certain tasks. No big battery getting in the way, but plenty of power to do what I need it to do. The drill is significantly smaller than my Makita and also comes in handy when space is a premium.

[@Strictly4Defense]

This video was very educational and fun to watch. Thanks to you guys. it’s Sunday and I’m just getting home from church. I am going to subscribe to your channel. Keep up the great work.

[@CafeElectric]

Thanks for the excellent overview. I've been wondering which system to choose and this helps. As for system voltage affecting heat produced in the battery cells: Oddly, reconfiguring a pack for higher voltage does not reduce the current or heat produced per cell for a given load. For example imagine a 360 Watt load using 10 cells. At 36V the 360W load is carried by one string of 10 cells, current per cell (and string) is 10 amps. At 18V it requires 20 amps to get the same 360W power. This is shared by two parallel strings of 5 cells each, so the current per string is still 10 Amps. Higher voltage does reduce the current in the wiring, electronics and motor, so the real advantage is in the balance of system. A primary disadvantage of higher voltage is the increased cost of the Battery Management System. Now if only we could freely swap different brands of batteries, then I would feel like the manufacturers cared about us customers. :-)

[@albertorodriguez1377]

@@Protoolreviews I'm not 100% sure, but I've heard that in Europe, that's exactly what they're implementing. So I guess that it could happen

[@CafeElectric]

@@Protoolreviews 😂

[@PhysiqueGeek]

I'm a huge fan of the M12 Fuel tools. Like you said, I love being able to have all my main tools together in one bag, plus bits, extra batteries, etc. and have it still be very manageable. They're just so capable now. Hell I ran a 5" hole saw through multiple sheets of 3/4" plywood today to run a heating stack up through an 8 story building. Granted I would normally grab the corded hole hawg for something like that and just tear through it, but it wasn't available, so I made due with my M12 Fuel Hammer Drill/Driver (god bless that 1/2 chuck). Sure it was definitely hot by the end, but so was the M18 being run right next to me. I just get a kick out of the instances where someone that's only ever used M18 tools calls my M12 setup "cute" or says that "their daughter would love that" and then I proceed to keep right up with them on just about any task at hand. As a plumber currently roughing in new apartments that are framed with steel studs and tracking I rarely come across anything that my M12 kit can't handle. The only M18 tool that I'd really like to pick up is the Fuel Sawzall. I love my fuel hackzall, but let's be honest it's not meant to be cutting through thick steel angle iron or anything like that, at least not in any reasonable amount of time. Yep, I'm a Milwaukee guy. Could you tell? Haha.

[@mytuberforyou]

The problem isn't the drill can't keep up, it's the amp-hours of battery life are so small on the compact batteries we tend to use with them that you need four of them with you when you climb a ladder.

[@PhysiqueGeek]

@@mytuberforyou that’s true, that’s why I use the 4.0 and 6.0 batteries in everything but the impact driver. That one I normally just run the little 2.0 compact in. Their regular brushed multi tool definitely chews through even the xc batteries real quick but I’ve never needed 4 batteries for a trip up the ladder lol

[@UnifiedInfo]

The fuel m18 hackzall is one of my favourite tools. Weighted better then the sawzall model

[@PhysiqueGeek]

@@UnifiedInfo Haven't had the opportunity to try out the M18 version yet but I love my M12 fuel hackzall too. Like you said, the weight balance, compared to trying to one hand the sawzall, is unbeatable

[@scottdezieck7056]

Great video guys. I do have say though the DeWalt 12v circular saw is awesome. Thing is a beast for it's size and if you're up on a ladder on the side of a house making a cut it's so much easier holding this saw up making that cut ...super light and does the job.

[@jonathanharris969]

I guess you haven't tried milwaukee and dewalt 12v circular saws.

[@desertratedc9596]

As a auto technician I bought into the Milwaukee M12 series and slowly added the M18 tools I felt I needed.

[@thudang3039]

Great conversation! I particularly liked the latter part as you started talking about the 60V stuff.

[@LiamBehan-mi8kr]

Guys really enjoying your tool talks. Very informative and interesting.

[@np-bl7qc]

I have Makita 18v and milwaukee 12v. I use them all nearly every day.

[@caseyschmidt6532]

Same here. I’m off today, and have no home projects so I’ll think I’ll walk around with the m12 hackzall and cut branches that really don’t have to be cut so I can get my tool high in for the day.

[@kentrichardson9070]

Rigid,it’s a no brainer. Free repair and batteries for life. I have them in both voltage platforms and reach for the 12v the most. Love the multi tool and like he said it fits in my main bag along with a drill and is always within reach. Fits in my pouch and going up a ladder and is easier to carry. 18 v if I’m driving 3” screws ,sawing and demos. 12v for cabinet and furniture building. Oh and I’m old enough that I started with the 7.2 Makita and Ryobi platforms in the 80s. Cheers

[@tylerwebb1900]

I started out with m18 tools slowly then bought like 2 m12 tools and I realized what an amazing difference it was and I now own more 12v tools but still need the power from a few m18 tools

[@ToolHombre]

My M12 stuff collects no dust. They are so handy, I reach for them first every time. I only go 18+ volt for heavier work, but it’s shocking how that has become

[@measuretwicewoodworks]

I’m a pro user and have Milwaukee 18 volt system as well as m12 and I have to say I love the size of m12 for most applications and performs very well .

[@jeremycrisp4488]

I couldn't imagine using 12v for what I do. My m18 tools time out when I use them. Angle grinders, hackzalls, bandsaws, and drills when mixing masonry. 12v wouldn't be able to do the job.

[@ShaunHensley]

Exactly

[@jeremycrisp4488]

@@rch5991 I can't imagine milwaukee expecting their 4.5/5" m18 grinder being used by a mobile welder. I thought maybe I was pushing too hard, so I lightened up after letting the tool sit for a while. It still timed out after a couple minutes. They need to work on that. The only real reason I have milwaukee tools is because their massive variety. I do have to say, my son dropped my drill into a bucket of water. Fried the 4.0 battery, but after it dried out the drill worked just fine if not better.

[@mikeDeSales943]

I have to say, the Milwaukee 12v Sawzall should only be used in desperate situations, it just doesn't cut fast enough.

[@pouuko7656]

I find that sometimes I'm more productive with a 12 volt tool because of the lighter weight and comfort of use

[@kencooper2059]

In most cases, the majority of what a cordless drill or impact is used for is driving screws and drilling fairly small holes. Today's 12 volt tools are far more than enough for these tasks. 18/20 volt drills and impacts are only needed for hole saws or large drill bits. Even the 12 volt jig saws and recip saws work well. But as mentioned, the 12 volt circular saws can be a bit wimpy. Need power for those.

[@jmorg1980]

I have run 18V my whole career until 2 years ago I bought an M12 surge. It was love at the first pull of the trigger... I am now heavy in M12 tools but agree that I have certain 18V tools that are necessary in some situations. It's a mix for me as a professional.

[@tjsells9288]

That surge changed my life love that tool

[@sergemarlon]

Just got my M12 Surge midway through a deck build. Love it. It'll be by my side from now on.

[@hallowedbethygame2840]

Yeah same, it's a joy to use. Love the Surge driver

[@skye1212]

Great video. Cleared up a lot of confusion about battery choices and tool power.

[@gr8phil]

I am fully fledged DIYer (fixes neighbours appliances and builds decks) and the M12 Fuel range has been my favourites set of tools for many years. They are light and powerful enough to tackle all of my projects. That said my circ. and jig saws are Dewalt 20v. I think its very different if you are a professional who is using cordless tools for more than a few hours a week. For those folks the 12v range in certain tools (drill/driver mostly) with high output batteries may make sense. BTW thanks for putting out a great video. always informative and very honest. Thanks again.

[@arshadhussain5145]

I'm new to this, I have 18v drill and impact driver but have a corded saw at 240v (but it's 230v) so I like watching and learning all this

[@briansnc2008]

This all makes sense for people who don’t use tools on a daily basis. Battery life, power, and general inconvenience of not having the right tool for the job, I’d take bigger better every time

[@TheSnakeskill0012]

I'm a plumbing apprentice. I'm currently running 18 v impact and drill. Still getting the rest of the power tools but I think I'm also gonna pick up a 12 v impact. Just for the light weight for driving screws for brackets nail plates ect. But that's really the only 12 v tool I'm interested in. Next buy is the 18 v hackzall

[@lawrencehaslup6889]

Normal day to day at work I run 18volt need the run time and the extra power. My personal automotive impacts and ratchets are 12 volt due to the nature of cars being tight spaces. So it really depends on your situation

[@aco2518]

18v for anyone starting out, this way you have more flexibility in tools without needing to move over to a new platform. Then lower/higher voltages as needed. Need more power; then 40/60v. Tools too heavy to carry all day; lower voltage. This makes the most sense to me

[@littlebitofeverything585]

I'm a milawakee guy and my take is 12 volt for small stuff like ratchet and, impact driver, and M18 for hammer drill and Grinders and impact wrench and bigger stuff and yes the m12 impact driver is perfect, maby not for big lag bolts and stuff but right tool for the right job

[@jeroen2082]

I only have 12v Bosch blue. It was a great upgrade from B+D 18v. I love the compactness and light weight.

[@Protoolreviews]

Love those tools!

[@UserNameAnonymous]

My old 10.8v makita impact driver is still going strong. It does 90% of everything I did as a pro and a home gamer

[@itstuba.warzoneclips4887]

I've been using the m12 circular saw for about 6 months now and love the little thing but sometimes it would be nice for it to be a little bigger so it could do 45s in inch and a half material. Pretty much the only reason for the 18 volt saw in the truck

[@ryann5247]

The 12v cordless ratchets are a must have in industrial maintenance and auto mechanic work

[@contessa.adella]

Extra: Yeah in the US DeWalt (especially) like to make the tool look to be more powerful by quoting the full charge voltage. However, DeWalt in UK label their tools at the nominal 18v, but they are exactly the same. Why?…Lithium cells are individually nominally 3.7v, but read 4.2v fully charged. So a five cell pack is nominally 18.5v but 21v straight off the charger! When your 18 or 20v labeled drill runs low it is more like 15v. Solid state batteries are gonna change the game again…..

[@barrylinkiewich9688]

I bought into the 12v Milwaukee stuff because I do a lot of automotive work and general home repair, usually in confined spaces. 12v is TONS of power for a drill or ratchet, the impact wrench is a LITTLE lacking for heavier work but still plenty for wheel lugs or most automotive suspension.... truck stuff where you're dealing with 125 ft/lbs or higher the M12 impact can be lacking. As a Canadian the best part is the M12 heated jackets sharing the same batteries, outdoor work in the winter doesn't suck when you're toasty warm.

[@fixerupperer]

12 volt drill, driver, recip, omt and a corded circular saw is ideal for many homeowners and diy type folks.

[@montanawhite5699]

We use dewalt and Milwaukee 18v tools on our farm. Lots of repetitive cuts/ grinding. We spent 6 10 hour days grinding and welding pipes together. Went through dozens of batteries a day.

[@danielrosic2960]

I really like the miniature nature of 12v and I have some m12 tools. By and large though my work is too heavy duty for 12v as a primary platform. I’m finding that my power demands are sometimes even unmet by 18v, such as with recipe saws and vacuums, so I’m looking forward to Makita’s 40v line which I’ve already bought into, but the 12v tools are very neato and compact, super attractive

[@brandonhoffman4712]

40v is 2x 18v. Anything using dual 18v meets that power spec. 60v is 3x. Notice the 18v vs 20v chat in this video. I moved away from makita in 2022 for milwaukee. I feel it's the superior option. I haven't really began looking into the higher voltage stuff though. I do know I would prefer to use 2 18v vs 1 40v battery though. Because I have like 10 already and buying batteries sucks. Milwaukees lawn mower can mow down a baby tree...

[@dperreno]

Yeah, I have all M12 cordless tools with the exception of an M18 circular saw. The other tools that I would consider for 18V is an angle grinder, jigsaw, and sander. But I have corded versions of those which are fine for me (I don't use them very often), so I'm not inclined to upgrade any time soon.

[@bartfoster1311]

I really like my Makita 18V subcompact set. I would like a few of the 12v cxt line to get a few of the nice light tools such as the ones named: drill, impact, one hand recip, and multitool. The 12v tools are usually a little cheaper too.

[@thomasbegley630]

As an aircraft mechanic I use 12v impact, screw gun, and 90° drill for jet engines and aviation parts.

[@robertharder3707]

60v is also the cutoff in existing rules and regulations between low voltage and high voltage, 60v is also the max on a lot of readily available economical electronic components, stepping above 60v is a big jump in manufacturing cost

[@doalex2085]

Good to know thanks

[@vossman5]

Greenworks is the only one I know of that is higher, at 80v

[@TheSpaceBrosShow]

As a DIYer, glad I started on 12V

[@BillLaBrie]

When I started out, Makita 9.7 NiCad was state-of-the-art.

[@jonhein6575]

Depends on application, try and get a crank bolt off a Honda with a M12.

[@shawnevans26]

As an Electrician I’ve had the 20v DeWalt, and they are great! But I’m really thinking of going the M12 or DeWalt 12v because of there size!

[@HardGrader]

Ridgid has quietly discontinued its 12 volt line and is apparently replacing those covered by its Lifetime Service Agreement with 18 volt tools.

[@kongxiong6005]

That thumb nail got me this time. But I'll watch this video just once. I returned my M12 for my M18 mid torque.

[@jessemeanlt1]

I am a DIY'er and and cutting, screwing, welding, electrical, riveting, etc is all part of it.

[@creativelyunoriginal]

Ive been using the same two milwaukee 12v drill and impact driver for almost 8 years now. The only limit is the battery size but they get MOST jobs done.