Milwaukee has long been a prominent name in the world of power tools, consistently earning high praise in independent reviews. Renowned for its high – quality construction, competitive performance, and outstanding durability, Milwaukee drills are the go – to choice for professionals. The company offers a wide range of products, from lightweight compact models to heavy – duty SDS Max demolition hammers, covering every possible drilling task. However, with such a vast array of options, choosing the right Milwaukee drill can be overwhelming. To help both professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts make an informed decision, we’ve thoroughly evaluated each tool.
Top Milwaukee Drills
1. BEST OVERALL: Milwaukee 2803 – 20 M18 FUEL 1/2″ Drill/Driver
This drill combines power, precision, and versatility, making it the top choice overall. Its advanced features and reliable performance cater to a wide range of drilling needs.
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Milwaukee Electric Tools MLW2504 – 20 M12 Fuel 1/2“
If you’re looking for a cost – effective option without sacrificing too much on quality, this M12 Fuel drill is a great pick. It offers good performance at a more affordable price point.
3. BEST HAMMER: Milwaukee 2804 – 20 M18 FUEL 1/2 in. Hammer Drill
When it comes to drilling into tough materials like concrete and cinder block, this hammer drill stands out. It delivers the power needed to handle the most challenging drilling tasks.
4. BEST CONTRACTOR: Milwaukee 2505 – 22 M12 Fuel Installation Drill/Driver
Designed with contractors in mind, this drill offers the features and performance required for professional installation work. It’s a reliable tool for heavy – duty projects.
5. BEST SDS: Milwaukee M18 FUEL Rotary Hammer 1″ SDS Plus
For drilling large – diameter holes in hard materials, this rotary hammer is the best option. Its SDS Plus chuck system provides quick bit changes and excellent performance.
6. BEST COMBO: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18 – Volt Lithium – Ion Brushless
This combo set offers great value, combining multiple tools in one package. It’s perfect for those who need a variety of drilling capabilities without purchasing separate tools.
7. BEST DEMOLITION: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18 – Volt Lithium – Ion Drill
Built for heavy – duty demolition work, this drill can handle tough materials and demanding tasks with ease. It’s a powerful tool for professionals working on renovation projects.
8. BEST RIGHT – ANGLE: Milwaukee M18 18 – Volt Lithium – Ion Cordless 3/8 in.
Ideal for working in tight spaces, this right – angle drill provides the power and maneuverability needed for drilling in confined areas.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Milwaukee Drill
Understanding Different Types
Milwaukee manufactures drills of all types. The lightweight 12 – volt cordless drill drivers are entry – level models. While they are often associated with DIYers, many professionals appreciate their compact size and impressive power – to – weight ratio. For tradespeople and contractors, the 18 – volt drill drivers are a more common choice, with many models offering class – leading performance.
Milwaukee also offers hammer drills with both 12 – volt and 18 – volt motors. These are designed to quickly and efficiently drill into concrete, cinder block, and other tough materials.
Motor Specifications
All Milwaukee drills use either 12 – volt or 18 – volt motors, with the 18 – volt motors providing greater power. However, the way power is delivered can vary significantly between different types of drills, such as drill drivers, hammer drills, and rotary hammers. When choosing a Milwaukee drill for a specific task, it’s important to consider factors like speed, torque, and BPM (beats per minute).
One crucial aspect of motor specifications is whether to choose a drill with a brush or a brushless motor. Brush motors were originally developed for corded tools and were later used in early cordless models. While they are proven, reliable, and low – cost technology, they don’t make the most efficient use of the battery charge.
Brushless motors, on the other hand, were specifically designed for cordless tools. They are highly efficient, virtually maintenance – free, and more durable than brush motors. However, they are also significantly more expensive. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision when selecting the best Milwaukee drill for your needs.
