Better than M12? M18 Compact Drill and Impact Driver Review!

[@heatweasel]

dont know much about current drills and impact drivers but amazed how much better the same tool performs with different battery.i have subscribed to your channel.john from wiltshire england.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I appreciate the support and yes the battery can really change things.

[@pierre-yvesdubreuil9315]

@@TinkerWithTools hello! from what i observed, milwaukee battery packs let the tool know what battery is inserted and what maximum amperage it will let the tool use from . that is why there is such a different in performance in many cases. The battery cells themselves have an impact on power delivery, but it's relatively small provided they are cells made for power tools, which pretty much all branded battery packs have. have a good day and keep going... i like your channel!

[@syd_luna]

I'd like to see this generation of the M18 compact brushless with the previous generation M18 compact brushless, as well as compared to the M18 Gen 4 versions as "control". Although the lighting and "lack" of features for the compact brushless, it's totally on purpose since it attracts any new customers to Milwaukee or trades apprentices or anyone who wants brushless powered tools at an affordable price relative to the Fuel models. Great video as always!

[@TinkerWithTools]

The M18 gen 4 drill and impact will simply clobber these tools. With respect to the older generation of brushless, I don’t own them currently (I owned the drill previously and gifted it to someone) so so unless I see a clearance deal on them I don’t know that they will be making a return to the channel.

[@KansasTools]

Great comparison man. I had the Ridgid compact set and you hit the nail on the head with the heat in the impact driver. I also didn’t keep the Ridgid compact tools as the battery, at least to me, made it feel the same as a regular sized tool. I went with the m12 because it’s such a true “compact” tool lineup. You can get into much smaller places and it’s very user friendly for DIY and professionals. Both great tools, I agree tho m12 isn’t going anywhere

[@TinkerWithTools]

Yeah I think there will definitely be people that still prefer 12 volt. But there is a segment of people that prefer to have a single platform but do want something more compact. Milwaukee (and other brands) and listening to that and hoping to cash in on that.

[@DiligentDave1966]

What’s up, Kansas? Anyway, I think the M12 slightly outperforms the Ridgid subcompact too.

[@KansasTools]

@@DiligentDave1966 hey Dave! Yeah that m12 line is really one that is so easy to get into and one that’s hard to get away from because the power those tools put out is close to if not on par with many 18v lines

[@DiligentDave1966]

@@KansasTools I’ve seen them beat 18v tools. If my hands were a little bigger, and I didn’t have my Dewalt set, I’d really think hard about the M12 fuel.

[@KansasTools]

@@DiligentDave1966 I run the m12 fuel here at my house and the only reason I went fuel is because I take them to work a lot as well and I find myself reaching for those over my m18 fuels because it’s so much more handy and the power of them gets the job done with ease. I’m both a Milwaukee and Ridgid guy. If I had to choose one line to use and stay with for years at a time it would be m12 no questions asked

[@louisd95714]

Great and informative as usual. I already have the M12 Fuel impact driver, so I think it would pair nicely with an M18 fuel hammer drill.

[@TinkerWithTools]

Good choice!

[@Failsafeman100]

Great concise review as always! Small suggestion: include the exact numbers for rpms etc on the bar graph

[@TinkerWithTools]

Appreciate the feedback.

[@QuockhanhPham20]

Look how the small of new M18 compact impact driver in your big hand when you grap it Hope to see the comparison between this new M18 compact kit and others Compact kit

[@TinkerWithTools]

Those comparison will happen in the coming weeks.

[@shannonholmes2494]

Interested to see how it compares to the DCF840 both have high IPM and both are rated for 1700 inch pounds.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I’ll have to compare to that. That has always been a good performer that seems a bit underrated in its specs so we will have to see. This is smaller than that though.

[@walkthroughs00000]

Nice review channel and at 12:40 it would really help if the numbers were written alongside the graph. They were all between 100 to 150

[@TinkerWithTools]

I appreciate the feedback.

[@apa7611]

At my work everything is Milwaukee fuel tools. Plumbing, hvac and electrical tools. I use my m12 fuel every day I hardly bust out the big guns unless I need that extra power for drilling holes or pounding in ground rods.

[@TinkerWithTools]

They make a strong and powerful tool even on 12 volt.

[@johnmichael642]

I was WAITING for this!!!!

[@harlanborders943]

What is up with the heat on all the new Milwaukee drill’s and impact’s. They said they would run cooler more air moving around. Think they may have told a fib.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I haven’t heard or seen any claims to that with this M18 set. I know that there was talk about that with the High Output batteries. For how small the impact is especially it doesn’t shock me that it got hot.

[@geoffboyd2895]

Hi tinker, great video, has the drill got a electronic clutch or a nice old school clutch?

[@TinkerWithTools]

Sorry I didn’t mention in the video. It’s a mechanical clutch from everything I have seen and tried.

[@steffendetrick]

$30 more than the flex kit and they seem to perform better so an argument could be made for it. I had a set of the last generation of Milwaukee brushless impact and drill and they were very well built I gave them to my dad and he still uses them today.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I plan on running them against the other compact tools I own so we will have to see how they stack up against the other brands.

[@chrisfyfe9212]

Interesting , that said I’ll be very interested in handling one ! I’m about 90 % on M12 ATM . The bulk reduction looks impressive , now if they could improve the ergos. Of the M18 Batts !

[@TinkerWithTools]

A small form factor Forge battery similar to the 1.7ah power stack would really make this an appealing choice. It's not a bad choice as is and performs well enough on the two, but a reduction in weight while also seeing a boost in performance would almost make it a no-brainer.

[@chrisfyfe9212]

I would love to see a more compact M18 SDS hammer drill , with better ergonomics , and shorter overall length ! Improved Batteries would really make that lash up shine !

[@TinkerWithTools]

@@chrisfyfe9212 yeah I know that DEWALT and Ryobi has released more compact versions. I do think that would be an appealing product.

[@tannerolsen92]

Highly Relevant. Thank you for the great vid!

[@TinkerWithTools]

Glad it was helpful.

[@stevenmccall2127]

This kit 3692-22CT is now on sale at HD for $189, or individual tools in kit form for $99 making a better deal as you basically get a free $79 charger and bag for $9.00. BUT Lowes has the Metabo HPT Kit KC18DEXQBM for $129. Holding out to see if Lowes does something with the similar Flex kit, or HD realizes the kit needs to have a free extra high output battery thrown in for free.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I think the deals you see now will be relatively close if not exactly the same to what you will see for the rest of the holiday season. Milwaukee typically doesn't got over the top with their $99 offering, but stays pretty close to what they have now... just a new model this year.

[@stevenmccall2127]

Buying the Metabo KC18DEXQBM kit. Flex is more expensive for no reason and has sooooo many battery problems. Are you having battery problems in real world or test usage?@@TinkerWithTools

[@TinkerWithTools]

I have had zero battery problems but in fairness I have a lot of tools that work through the rotation so I won’t see usage as high as some.

[@shannonholmes2494]

Great video comparison. You do a great job.

[@TinkerWithTools]

Thank you!

[@oli77baba]

Will this compact m18 be able to drill garage concrete wall? For a few bicycle hangers?

[@TinkerWithTools]

The drill driver wouldn’t be able to but I am guessing you would be fine with the compact hammer drill.

[@thepewplace1370]

Super impressive new tools, no doubt, but I think the bigger takeaway here is just how much additional value you get out of almost every tool by getting a HO battery on it (even in M12, where they are still using 18650s in their HO line, you see a performance jump). As impressive as these new compact tools are though, Im struggling to see a niche. I use both M12 and M18 at work, and the M18 Gen 4 stuff is already pretty small, and incredibly powerful, but when I get an application where I need smaller, its often because of the battery being too big, or its an application where I want significantly less power (working inside electrical boxes, for example). These new compact 18v tools offer a moderate performance bump over the 12v lineup, but when you need that additional power, or are doing repetitive production work, I feel like youre going to want the significantly more power/speed you get from the normal M18 gen 4 stuff. Maybe I'm just not seeing it, but I'm not sure who these are geared towards.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I think that for people that already have M12 and M18 this doesn’t make that much sense. But for someone who only has M18 these are a nice compact alternative to M18.

[@devonboyer626]

The last gen of these is what got me in the m18 platform. They were good enough to do the basic stuff, and they were affordable on deals. These are insanely good performance for an entry/intermediate level combo. Plus, these always go on sale for 199 or sometimes 179.

[@thepewplace1370]

@@devonboyer626 OK that's a fair point. It's not necessarily for the guy who's already got M12 and/or M18 fuel, but replacing the older brushless 18v tools with smaller and more powerful ones. In that case, as a primary drill and driver, I think this is probably a great package. @tinkerwithtools do you have some of the prior gen non-fuel M18 brushless to compare to?

[@TinkerWithTools]

I have owned the drill in the past but don’t currently own it. If I can get access to one I might show it in a future video. As for the impact driver, I don’t have that one and I don’t have any immediate plans to purchase it. There are a bunch of other newer items that I would rather bring to the channel currently like the new forge battery for example.

[@thepewplace1370]

@@TinkerWithTools for sure man, it'd just be interesting to see, but I'm also way more interested in the new stuff. I'm going to try to snag a few of the M18 Forge 6.0s when they launch, so I'll be very interested in seeing how those test. I already use predominantly 3.0HO and 6.0HO batteries on my M18 tools, because they offer such huge performance bumps, and I'm looking forward to see how much more the pouch cells might give (especially in tools like the Hole Hawg, which is super handy and powerful, but burns through a 6.0HO in a hundred and something holes, necessitating multiple batteries a day during a large rough in). At Pipeline, they kept talking about the Forge 6.0 having more runtime than the 6.0HO, which doesn't make sense to me as 6 amp hours is 6 amp hours, unless they are getting much higher efficiencies out of the pouches via better thermals and less voltage sag (still, I can't see how they're comparing it to the 12.0HD).

[@Mando98]

I really like these new compact brushless tools and how affordable they are compared to the regular gen 4 m18 fuel drill and impact kits. I also really like that they added the multi voltage charger on the kit. As someone who only owns m12 tools from Milwaukee because of size, weight, performance, and affordability, these will be a great addition to anyone on the Milwaukee line who wants something small and powerful. This might also attract a lot of the users that don’t like the m12 line because they say the handle is too fat! Its also a very affordable kit to get into the m18 line while having brushless tools!! I would assume that if you pair them with a 5 or 6 AH battery they might be even more powerful but that kind of defeats the purpose of them being compact and lighter. Then again, there are plenty of people that will use something as compact as a dewalt DCF850 paired with one of those massive 15 AH batteries for some reason😂 I hope they have good deals on this kit during the holidays so I can pull the plug on it. Great video as always! Keep up the great work!

[@TinkerWithTools]

Thanks! I’ll have to do some testing with the larger batteries (maybe the forge battery when it comes out) but I agree that there is a point where I don’t care as much about the power added if it has a giant anchor on the bottom. Both the 2ah and the 3 ah felt at home on it.

[@VX3800]

Can you compare these to the hikoki 18v compact? Here in Australia the M18 brushless kit (drill, driver, 2x4ah batteries, charger) is $630AUD while the Hikoki KC18DE kit I can get for $400AUD, which seems a pretty big price difference for what would seem like similar performance and build quality

[@TinkerWithTools]

I have separate videos testing the drills and the impact drivers. You are just going to see the Metabo HpT version but they appear to be the same. I’ll link the other videos in additional comments.

[@VX3800]

@@TinkerWithTools they’re definitely the same yeah. Thank you man I saw the drill one after I commented this but not the driver one

[@TinkerWithTools]

Can Milwaukee's New M18 Beat the Rest??? Compact Drill Showdown! kzbin.info/www/bejne/hXvVnKyem9qIrsU

[@TinkerWithTools]

Compact Impact Driver Showdown! Can The New Milwaukee Best Them All??? kzbin.info/www/bejne/d2S9h3qZl7ahhMk

[@caseyschmidt6532]

For my father. As a homeowner would you recommend i get him the m18 or 12 combo?

[@TinkerWithTools]

It sort of depends on what his tastes are, what type of work he intends to use them for. The M12 set is more premium in that the chuck is nicer, the controls feel a bit better. It's less powerful yes, but for most people it's going to be able to get the jobs done as a homeowner. The only caveats that I would say to that are 1) does your dad like the M12 grip? It's bulkier than the M18 and some people find it off-putting. 2) does he intend to buy more tools on the platform? If yes, then I would simply make sure that M12 suits his needs. If not then I might suggest going with M18. If he is going to want bigger and powerful tools, you might be setting him up better with the M18.

[@aidencox9551]

I just got this same kit for $149.99 because it was marked wrong at the store😂😂 I didn’t need them as I have the gen 4 fuel drill and impact set too. I just couldn’t pass up a deal like that lol

[@TinkerWithTools]

That’s a pretty good price for it. If you can afford to be patient you can pick up great deals just checking the store often.

[@Dunc2222]

FWIW, Milwaukee's website indicates that the variable speed model #3650 that you are showing here only goes up to 4000 impacts/min. It's the 3-speed version (#3651) that goes up to 4900 ipm.

[@TinkerWithTools]

Based on what I am seeing on the website today it’s showing the 4900 IPM for me. At the end of the day whether it’s the 4900 or 4000 it’s still a quick hitting impact driver.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I have found that Milwaukee’s site at times has inconsistent data on their listings.

[@Dunc2222]

@@TinkerWithTools Agreed!

[@tannerwest6823]

I’m liking this M18 compact impact

[@TinkerWithTools]

It’s pretty impressive and the high speed seems really well suited for certain tasks

[@MistaE]

I bought this combo kit today for work, i wanted a different one but this what my Home depot had to offer do you think this kit will do fine drilling through aluminum thick and thin?

[@TinkerWithTools]

I have mostly done wood drilling with it. I think that it's as powerful as the rest of the tools in this class.

[@AlexZR2]

One thing I dislike is the LED placement on this drill , I love DeWalts LED on their compact brushless drill , you can move it downwards or upwards.

[@johnmichael642]

Please please please can you do a comparison between these m12fuel and the previous gen 3 compact brushless m18 combo kit?

[@TinkerWithTools]

Are just referring to the previous M18 brushless impact and drill. I have owned that drill previously but not the impact. At this point I don’t have any immediate plans to purchase them again but I do have previous videos with the drill.

[@Cavett24]

I would have ran the m12's with 2.5 and 5.0 high output batteries for both impact and drill. The large m12 batteries are still more compact than any m18 and also have the advantage of being even more compact with the smaller batteries. If the power of a m12 tool with the 5.0 is close to the m18 version, I choose m12 every time.

[@TinkerWithTools]

That’s the trade off. The M18 will have a little bit more weight but it does pack a slight performance premium with it as well.

[@devonboyer626]

One thing about milwaukee. Even on their cheapest m12 to their most expensive m18, they all got metal chucks. Something i just now noticed!

[@TinkerWithTools]

It is a nice touch.

[@martylucas8557]

The first thing I noticed about the new M18 Compact Drill and Driver do not carry the FUEL logo. So they’re brushless, however they don’t have the FUEL TECHNOLOGY! Why do you suppose Milwaukee did that?

[@TinkerWithTools]

Milwaukee has had a mid tier compact brushless line for quite a few years now. These tools I would imagine are replacing that set and getting them more in line with competition on 18-24 compact and sub compact tools.

[@steffendetrick]

What makes a Milwaukee fuel a fuel isn’t just that it’s brushless it’s the type of brushless motor, which is what Milwaukee calls their proprietary power state brushless motor. This gives users a more affordable option to brushless tools. This brushless line has been out for a while now . This is the second generation of these drills and impacts. They also have a brushless Nonfuel grinder, hammer drill ect. . They’ve had a brushless Nonfuel 7 1/4 circular saw for a couple years now.

[@robertcasey3528]

Almost every brand has their premium model drill for heavy duty use and a compact version intended for sparkys or cabinet installation etc.

[@TinkerWithTools]

Yep different tools for different jobs.

[@AJDBroski]

Would love to see comparison test against the gen 4 fuel drill and impact driver

[@TinkerWithTools]

I’ll see what I can do in the future but they are quite different in terms of power input. The drill especially won’t be all they competitive to the Gen 4 Fuel stuff.

[@AJDBroski]

@@TinkerWithTools yea I figured that, it just would like to know what’s the difference in size and speed, to see if they’re worth buying at all

[@facerapi2920]

Would it be worth getting a 3.0 ho if I already have a bunch of 5.0

[@TinkerWithTools]

If run time is more a priority then no, but if compactness and a small amount of weight savings would matter then the 3.0 HO is a solid battery.

[@billdagoe7371]

I bought the kit but with the hammer drill for $200 Cdn........about $150 US at Home Depot. Very nice set for the money.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I’ve like it a lot more than I thought I would when they first announced it.

[@Darkeninggg]

Hello, What drill bit set are you using? (The red tips) sorry for the constant edits haha

[@TinkerWithTools]

Those are SpeeDemon bits from Diablo. Here is a link: amzn.to/3WtlJ7a

[@THEUrinalCake]

Tired of cleaning my rims/exhaust tips by hand. Might go pick up one of these tomorrow. Should be more than sufficient for my home uses. Unsure if I want the impact though. Does anybody know if a 1/4" impact is capable of removing lug nuts? Say from a Subaru WRX rim?

[@TinkerWithTools]

It's really small impact driver and while it still has power and will drive fasteners well enough, I think that you will find that repeated lugs will probably not be the task that its best suited for and it might fall short of that. Could it do it sure, but I can't say that I feel like it will handle it well long term.

[@greatbay1961]

for anyone with arthritis m12 batteries are very difficult to change out why i had to pass on them

[@TinkerWithTools]

Thanks for passing it on.

[@jmackinjersey1]

The good thing about these new tools being released from Milwaukee is that they are expanding their entry and mid level lines, instead of focusing only on their top end FUEL line. Think about it, those lines were great when they came out, because that was all that we had at that time. Now, they are the more affordable option for someone that wants to enter into the platform and buy a great product, but does not necessarily Need the performance of the FUEL and of course can not afford them. These new tool releases attract not only current buyers/owners, but also new buyers that are out there looking at other brands by comparison. I mean, the green brand looks appealing due to the price and believe me, they have a lot of nice options for their line up, even a few that I would buy if they were in the Milwaukee brand (not buying into the brand for one tool).

[@TinkerWithTools]

They have had compact brushless option for a few years now, this is now almost a gen 2 of that and it’s gotten significantly smaller.

[@jmackinjersey1]

@@TinkerWithTools Oh yeah, that's what I'm talking about. This line is actually what a lot of us were using several years ago, before FUEL hit the market, and once again blew the competition away. As I mentioned, I'm glad to see they are still developing their lower priced lines so that everyone can enjoy new items every once in a while.

[@Dude-xv4os]

I own the 40V Makita XGT line and I got the TD002G from Japan and it’s 4600 impacts per min. I thought that was the fastest lol! I guess not any more!

[@TinkerWithTools]

I had forgotten that one. In my head makita was at like 4400 and flex was at 4500. Yeah it’s a fast impact.

[@jmackinjersey1]

As for as the comparison, I would hope that the 18 outperforms the 12 on all ah batteries, as they should. That's like asking a Tacoma to safely pull the same trailer and load as an F150 can. But as we know, these two platforms are designed for different jobs in mind, and that is great.

[@konadayz426]

If you ask me the only compact thing about the m12 is the cp battery. Which makes the handle fat and uncomfortable for alot.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I've ended up switching up my grip on the majority of M12 tools because of the installation drill driver. Using the trigger with my middle finger on things like the drill and impact have made the handle more comfortable before. While the grip before didn't bother me, I have learned that this is my preference.

[@oghuzkhan5117]

if they o the same job what is the diffrence between drill and impact?

[@TinkerWithTools]

While there is certainly overlap in what they can do and how people use them, impact drivers are better for driving tasks and applying torque in a controlled manner that makes driving without stripping the screw easier. They also deliver more torque that a drill in most cases. Drill on the other than will excel in drilling tasks something that an impact is not designed to do.

[@oghuzkhan5117]

So you mean with the drill you can work on harder materials, like bricks and concrete and with a impact you work on wood and softer materials? Whe you do review please also tell in which application you can use the tools. because there are also people like me watching who has very little knowledge about (power) tools but stil are interested. Thank you. I will follow your channel@@TinkerWithTools

[@giorgipachuashvili2173]

how about speed control? is it a problem in real life that you can not swith a speed ?

[@TinkerWithTools]

I agree with you but they do have a 3 speed version of the impact driver. I bought at the release of this model and they hadn’t yet released that model yet.

[@CarlosPlumbingNMoreToolReviews]

If the kit was $199 I would be SOLD! And make the hammer drill and 3mode driver $240 also SOLD! Do you think they will have Black Friday deals on this kit?

[@TinkerWithTools]

With it being so new, it’s hard to say. It would shock me to see it on a promotion of some sort but I don’t know if they will drop it that far or not.

[@CarlosPlumbingNMoreToolReviews]

@@TinkerWithTools Thank You! Hopefully they do! As an apprentice plumber I wish flex and Dewalt would make more plumber specific tools to have more of a competitive market with Milwaukee. Milwaukee is kinda pricey and them being the only option doesn’t help me either lol thanks!

[@TinkerWithTools]

Flex seems to be squarely taking aim at Milwaukee so it wouldn’t shock me if in the future we see more but it’s taken years for Milwaukee to build out that lineup. But I agree that competition is better for us all.

[@pocketstoosumo]

they have the kit available now for $100

[@rodolfocasas6262]

I just got mine for $200 after taxes

[@lvdcdude]

M12 with the small battery packs are still King! when it come to Compact. I usually carry M12 Surge impact with 2.0 Battery on tool small tool pouch that hangs on my pants belt. I run the HO 2.5 on my M12 Hammer drill and Impact. I dont mind grabbing another battery. If I want longer run times I grab the M12 6.0s...... With that being said if running 3 1/2 Deck screws / lags or drilling out 1 inch holes all day long. I grab my M18 drill and Impact. There is the right tool for every job. 90% of the time I run M12s with the compact battery pack

[@TinkerWithTools]

I just like that now there is a more compact option for those that don’t like the M12 handle.

[@NtenseXchange]

Milwaukee needs to come up with a smaller m18 battery footprint. Something as tiny as the m18 compact impact, I slap on even a 2.0 and it ain’t compact anymore.

[@TinkerWithTools]

We finally had another company make a small form factor pouch cell battery. That's been one of the biggest selling points on the Dewalt platform with how compact their 1.7ah powerstack battery is. I would love to see Milwaukee and other's follow suit.

[@NtenseXchange]

@@TinkerWithTools yep. I run both the dewalt dcf870 and dcd800 with the 1.7ah power stacks and they are a dream to work. Waiting on Milwaukee to bring a compact battery for the m18…

[@sopounareitsa9800]

Idk why my bit is not locking in any tips

[@TinkerWithTools]

I am guessing you are talking about the impact driver? Next, is this a new tool and it never worked properly or is this an old tool that just stopped working? Depending on the answers to those, it my shift the answer slightly but overall - I have found that a collet that isn't working is usually related to the ball bearing not retracting or it is getting stuck in the retracted position not allowing it to drop into place on the bit detent. The only other thing that I can think of would be to have a small piece of debris lodged in the bottom not allowing the bit to fully seat in the collet. Hope this helps.

[@sopounareitsa9800]

@ m18 compact impact driver every time I put the bit in it falls out and it’s new I’m really not a tool guy lol

[@TinkerWithTools]

I don't have the tool in front of me, but it's possible it's not a quick insert collet. If that is the case. Try pulling out on the collet while inserting the bit. If it's not a quick insert it should then lock in. If I can find that tool in the next day or two, I will try that out and respond again.

[@JohnPresz]

Really enjoyed your Milwaukee comparison video of the M18 and M12 Fuel combo kits. I'm a retired senior in Toronto, ON. I'm looking at upgrading from father's old corded drills and looking to buy a cordless, brushless hammer drill/driver and impact driver combo kit. I'm not very handy but capable of doing some things around the house and willing to help family and friends. I want a combo kit that will cover most needs around the house now and for the future. I have narrowed it down to 3 combo kits: 1. Dewalt 20V Max Atomic (DCK226D2), DCD799B Hammer Drill, DCF809 Impact, 2x2.0Ah batteries, charger & case, price: $249 CAN. 2. Milwaukee M18 (3610-22CT), 3602-20 Hammer Drill, 3650-20 Impact, 2x2.0Ah batteries, charger & case, plus one of 5 FREE tools (up to $198 value), price: $299 CAN. 3. Milwaukee M12 Fuel (3497-22), 3404-20 Hammer Drill, 3453-20 Impact, 1x2.0Ah battery, 1x4.0Ah battery, charger & case, price $229 CAN The Milwaukee M18 Hammer Drill & Impact driver both feel the most comfortable in my small hands, but the M18 Impact Driver doesn't have the tri-led lights like the Impact drivers of the Dewalt and M12 Fuel Impacts, and it also doesn't have the selectable variable speeds and the self-tapping feature of the M12 Fuel Impact. However the M18 and Dewalt combo kits give me the extra speed and torque if ever needed. Based on the above information, which combo kit do you feel would be the most appropriate choice for me? I really appreciate your advice. Thank you.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I have never loved that DEWALT impact driver. It’s not small (the main point of the atomic line) so while the drill is okay I don’t feel like that is a contender in my opinion. The m12 is a great kit with great features and I feel it’s powerful enough for most people but especially for the hammer drill function is going to be more lighter duty than a full size drill. Think small anchors or tapcons. The M18 doesn’t have the premium features of the m12 like you mentioned but it is more powerful. I would probably end up with M12 if I had another (even corded) heavy duty drill. But none of your choices are bad options. I think they would all serve you well in the end.

[@JohnPresz]

Thank you for your reply. I really appreciate your feedback. I'm not planning to keep any of father's corded drills. At my age I need to downsize and I just want to have one good compact, cordless, brushless hammer drill/driver and impact driver set that will cover me as a homeowner for most situations in my retirement. I'm just a bit divided between the extra power of the M18 Hammer drill that may come in handy for some applications versus the extra features on the M12 Fuel Impact driver. Not sure which one gives me the better overall advantage to now and for future use. Because I don't plan to have any other hammer drills, which combo set do you feel would overall serve me the best now and in the future, as the only combo set in my tool kit, the M12 Fuel or the M18 combo kit? At my age and needs, I think this will be my first and last combo kit purchase, and I just want to get it right. Thank you again and I look forward to your reply. @@TinkerWithTools

[@TinkerWithTools]

Given that you will have no other tools I might recommend the M18 then.

[@sizif717]

Probably the same motors in them..:) And the difference comes only from the voltage of the battery. Just like Makita, Dewalt (the Atomic line) and Metabo does with some of their latest brushless compact 18V models. Not necessarily a bad thing though - it all depends on the job application that you need them for :). But the Milwaukee 12V linе is such a gem, no matter what progress they do with their 18V line - I can't imagine that the M12 loses it's lustro and practicality in the next 10 years at least - especially with the new High Output batteries.

[@TinkerWithTools]

As for them being the same motors, I don’t think they are simply because both of the M18 tools are smaller in diameter in the main body than the M12 tools are. Typically the motor is packed pretty tightly on the body and dictates the diameter.

[@TinkerWithTools]

To your comment about M12 though. That platform is so much more than just a compact drill platform. They have a lot of specialty tools that fit that form factor so well. Milwaukee has done so well at maximizing the 12 volt lineup.

[@sizif717]

You may be right. But there is no way of figuring that out until seeing the actual motors. And about the drill-drivers - the M12 has a hammer function - which makes the body longer in general, while the newer compact 18V one - is without hammering. What makes me think that they are similar - is the pretty similar performance. @@TinkerWithTools

[@TinkerWithTools]

@@sizif717 they make a hammer drill version of this model too, it’s 0.1” longer but wasn’t yet available when I ordered this.

[@fwheels7776]

Id like to see the m12 impact with a 4.0 or higher though. Probably would do much better. If I'm doing heavier work I'm using the bigger battery.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I have different videos testing it with the larger batteries as well. Went with the HO 2.5 here which I do think is a good battery for it as well, while still keeping the size and weight less.

[@fwheels7776]

@@TinkerWithTools right nine out of ten times I am using a 2 to 3.0, 3 cell battery, with the m12 impact for most work. Love the m12 line.

[@jtxty9010]

The only diff between 12v vs 18 is the batery size. 18V drill and impact tool can be as small as 12v,

[@DiligentDave1966]

I wish they would have given the impact driver multiple modes like the M12.

[@TinkerWithTools]

They do have a version that has three speeds. They just hadn’t released it yet when I got my hands on it.

[@DiligentDave1966]

@@TinkerWithTools I haven’t seen any videos on that one.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I have seen a few people show in a short here and there. I have a hard time wanting to buy it since it has the same output as the one I have.

[@DiligentDave1966]

@@TinkerWithTools I also don’t know why they didn’t give it a quick insert collet.

[@TinkerWithTools]

My best guess is either cost or to keep it less premium than fuel (m12 especially).

[@tanorkewl8360]

On paper this on paper that I have the fuel m12 and 2 old brushed m12 impacts I reach for those as they are way less stubby and get in places easier

[@TinkerWithTools]

so you are saying a larger tool gets into places easier?

[@AllenCross]

Hi - Quick notes from a subscriber who watches every video... 1. It's great that you're out there buying the latest tools, soon as they hit the shelf. Saves me a lot of time scrolling through Sunday circulars, not to mention the annoyance factor of all the incessant promotional emails from manufacturers. Keep it up! 2. I know you get grief from people, but too many recent videos include a lengthy, somber apologia. It comes across like a 20-something counselor at church camp who knows one kid started the fight, but 'wants to be fair'....or a surgeon who tells the family he has great hopes for the patient's survival, then asks if they've looked into organ donation. 🤔 3. Obviously, you think apologies are needed. Ok, but do that *after* you've shown us stats and offered your thoughts. The non-complaining subs will appreciate your candid viewpoint and the complainers are gonna jump on you *no matter what*, anyway. Not suggesting you throw tools in the garbage, but we're all adults. We will survive your honest opinions. 🙂 .

[@TinkerWithTools]

I appreciate the support and feedback. Just curious though, which part do you feel is the lengthy apology in this video?

[@davidmcgee2126]

Yeah but battery size does matter. The M12 is more than powerful enough to get the jobs done. The m12 impact snaps and strips screws easily enough. And 1 handed drill operators in tight spots the weak m12 right angle is better than the impact and drill because of how you hold them for contact pressure on the screw. If I’m building decks I want a 18-24 volt tool. If I’m fixing things I want more control

[@TinkerWithTools]

The M18 impact also comes in a 3 speed model that would allow you to tune it down as well.

[@DamionJR4923]

I’m surprised at how much better the m12 gen3 impact driver is better than the m12 gen2 impact driver.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I was less suprised by the impact that I was the drill but both were improvements.

[@timothybayliss6680]

I am surprised there is any difference in the performance of freshly charged m12 2.0 and 2.5 packs. The cells have almost identical discharge rates. Impacts will get way hotter than that...if you use one seriously, like driving 300 screws in an hour, they get too hot to touch.

[@Healcraft]

i like my m12 fuel, had some really bad drills in the past like bargain bin not even black & decker, and ancient mastercraft (canadian tire) brand ones that are about 5x the size and weight and less good.

[@TinkerWithTools]

They are certainly a different type of tool from bargain bin type stuff as you put it.

[@abelesparza6059]

I am not sure that it matters too much if these compact tools have slightly better performance compared to the M12 tools. While the performance of the M12 tools is impressive, these are two different tools that fill two similar but different niches. Honestly, the differences between all of the premium brands is negligible. Just get the best deal that you can. It does not really pay to stay loyal to any brand

[@TinkerWithTools]

You are right that there are a lot of great tools out there and no one company has all the best tools. How the tools feel and work for you is likely the most important factor and will trump small differences in performance.

[@steffendetrick]

I would disagree about investing into a certain brand. The size of the platform matters how often they’re releasing new tools matters unless you want to own a bunch of different battery platforms you are definitely better off doing your research. If you are a DIYer, you would probably be good with any platform. For most professionals platform size has always been a big part of that decision. I own multiple battery platforms, but in the early 2000s I was more invested in Dewalt now I have much more Milwaukee and I’ll probably see one more change before I retire but hopefully not but I have been keeping a close eye on the XGT line.

[@lawdog516]

I like the drill but not the impact. Milwaukee took a step back by going back to the single LED instead of the light ring, why? The impact was impressive using the 3.0 HO battery but that kinds of defeats the purpose of using a compact impact. IMO the drill is the real winner here, thanks

[@TinkerWithTools]

The 3.0 is bigger than the 2.0 but it didn’t feel too large by any means. As for the lights I think they likely do it to clearly distinguish between the fuel offerings and the non-fuel. No insider info here just my opinion.

[@lawdog516]

@@TinkerWithTools thanks

[@towerlouis]

If two drills were otherwise the same, I'd go plastic to save $1. The components inside the chuck are way more vulnerable to impact/misuse than the metal or plastic that's covering them.

[@ohiopipper3956]

What I really don’t understand with you guys testing 3+ inch screws. If a carpenter was to have a tool it sure as hell won’t be a m12. Why bother with a timer? Yes we could see it can put in a 5 in screw. The m12 will be used by a/c people with sheet metal screws. So I don’t understand why you need to burn up a m12 on 5 in screws.

[@TinkerWithTools]

When testing these tools with smaller fasteners it can be difficult to illustrate the difference between two comparable tools even though the feel might be different to the user. Testing a variety of larger fasteners allows viewers to see potential power and speed differences between tools. While the M12 is popular with HVAC professionals, it’s popular isn’t just limited to that trade.

[@ToolsInAction4u]

I find myself grabbing the m12 all the time over the m18

[@txvet7738]

I’m a DIY’er and grab my M12 stuff most of the time.

[@EngineersPerspective701]

@@ToolsInAction4u same. Framed out a wall, reach in closet and walk through closet in my lower level. Ended up using the M12 the whole time because I could keep it in my pouch without weighing me down

[@ryang3992]

I’m a professional remodeler both residential and commercial. I use my m12 surge which handles nearly every task perfectly and precisely. I grab my m18 impact about once or twice a year

[@mariocabral2540]

Nadie habla en ningun vídeo de la temperatura,yo tengo el kit m12 y con nada se súper calienta, pero es simple física para generar energía hay que generar calor y eso pasa en el m12 y en el m18 al ser tan compacto la temperatura ha de ser muy alta.

[@TinkerWithTools]

Yeah in striving for more and more power while also reducing the size it is something that they have to balance.

[@YuckFou0x0FFFF]

Basically, M12 is for ergonomics and versatility. M18 for raw power and longer battery life.

[@Gabriel-i1z1z]

That heat on the m18 can not be good. The fact that the m12 competes with the m18 is a win for the m12

[@RichardGeresGerbil]

Can someone tell Milwaukee to make an M12 compact mitre saw that would sell like hotcakes

[@TinkerWithTools]

I wonder what the run time would be?

[@RichardGeresGerbil]

@@TinkerWithTools with 6amps I think it would be great. Mostly for cutting trim or other odd stuff

[@monissiddiqui5656]

its unfortunate Milwaukee missed the mark on this set of drivers. People like myself who already have a lot of Milwaukee drills would have loved to add this to our power tool collection. however I don't think I would pick it up since the new tools are heavier and lack the lights that we are used to. Milwaukee needed to make a precision m18 driver which was both lighter and more compact. We don't need more power in my opinion in the m18 lineup.

[@TinkerWithTools]

Are you saying heavier than M12? Because they are significantly smaller and lighter than the models they are replacing.

[@monissiddiqui5656]

@@TinkerWithTools yes, because m12 does compete with m18. We want lighter, small and more precision tools.

[@potvinsuks8730]

I couldn't agree more with you. To add and back up your previous point, also, more 'Features' like, bigger/stronger generally more pronounced lighting (just look at SKILL's 12V Impact Drivers's Halo Lights!) It would balance out the entire package more so, especially since they lead in most criterias. @@monissiddiqui5656

[@arbuckleworkshop9857]

No cause m12 the entire tool is compact where with these you still have a 18v brick on the bottom

[@TinkerWithTools]

What I really want to see them do is come out with a small forge battery that not only boosts performance but makes the weight smaller at the same time.

[@dnavy2000]

you're not comparing watt hour to watt hour, m18 3 amp battery vs m12 two amp battery.... come on man! lol

[@TinkerWithTools]

You are right. I wasn’t attempting to match watt your to watt hour. Just showcasing Milwaukees new compact options to one of their existing compact options

[@Sparkystacoma]

Rob and Sarah said I know the drill and say hello

[@TinkerWithTools]

Welcome! Those puns were pretty great!

[@justforlaughs8988]

I just bought mine for $140

[@TinkerWithTools]

Nice deal!

[@justforlaughs8988]

@@TinkerWithTools I couldn't say no I went into home Depot acting like I wanted a 12v setup I knew they didn't have. kindly asking them well I guess if you don't have it, if I was to consider the 18v setup would you take off $100 all bummed out? And they without thinking were like ya sure lol I was like cool let's check out before they change their mind lol 🤣

[@peterc9166]

M12 is not dead tool will get smaller

[@TinkerWithTools]

I agree it’s not dead. I feel this is more about Milwaukee wanting to fill gaps in their lineup to compete with other brands. Several companies have a compact 18-24 volt option and Milwaukees answer in my opinion has been M12. Now they have this as well for those who don’t like the ergonomics of M12.

[@ohiopipper3956]

Get a torque wrench and test the actual torque

[@victorfeliciano6094]

please note about the price ck it out now home depot sale. $239 plus free battery / if you return the battery it come out to $174 for the combo.have fun guys, o i for got if you guys want dewalt dcd800 it comes two battery 5amp and a charger plus the drill and bag $204 BUT wait if you return the extra battery you pay $120 for tool batt charger bag. ok !!!!!!!!!!!!

[@TinkerWithTools]

Both are pretty good options! Thank for sharing the deals!