Milwaukee 2697-22CT M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

How each alternative compares

Milwaukee M18 Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit

This Milwaukee M18 kit swaps the compact batteries for two XC High Capacity cells. The original 2697-22CT includes two Compact REDLITHIUM batteries, which offer shorter runtime but greater portability. This alternative provides longer runtimes for all-day jobs. It retains the 18-volt frameless motor and 1,400 inch-lbs of torque. The weight increases to 11.2 pounds for the kit. You gain endurance but lose the compact footprint. Pick this if you need more battery life and do not mind the extra weight. The contractor bag and charger remain standard inclusions. It suits professionals who prioritize runtime over compact storage.

Milwaukee M18 4-Tool Cordless Combo Kit

The Milwaukee 2695-24 expands your toolkit from two to four distinct tools. It adds a reciprocating saw and a work light to the drill and impact driver. The original 2697-22CT focuses on raw drilling power with a hammer drill. This kit sacrifices some raw power density for versatility. It includes the same 18-volt platform, ensuring battery compatibility. You gain a saw and light for general construction tasks. The kit weight is listed at 3 pounds for specific components, but the total system is heavier. Choose this if you need multiple tool types in one package. It fits users who value having a saw and light over having the highest torque specs.

Bosch 18V Brushless Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit

The Bosch GXL18V-241B22 introduces a brushless motor for improved efficiency. The original Milwaukee uses a 4-pole frameless motor. Bosch offers a 2.0 Ah battery capacity in this kit. The Milwaukee 2697-22CT includes two compact batteries with DPM protection. Bosch focuses on compact storage and masonry drilling capability. The 1/2-inch chuck matches the Milwaukee standard. You gain modern brushless efficiency and a potentially smaller form factor. You give up the specific DPM overload protection and the included contractor bag. Pick this if you value brushless technology and compact design over the Milwaukee's specific protection features and included accessories.

RIDGID 18V SubCompact Brushless 2-Tool Kit

The RIDGID R9782 is a subcompact brushless kit designed for portability. It features a 2.0 Ah battery capacity. The original Milwaukee 2697-22CT uses a larger compact battery and includes a hammer drill function. This RIDGID kit prioritizes size and brushless efficiency. The gray color distinguishes it from the Milwaukee red. You gain a lighter, more compact tool for tight spaces. You lose the hammer drill capability and the higher torque output of the Milwaukee. The kit includes two tools for general driving and drilling. Choose this if you need a small footprint for DIY tasks. It suits users who prioritize compactness and efficiency over heavy-duty masonry performance.

RIDGID 18V Sub-Compact Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit

The RIDGID R9781 is a sub-compact brushless hammer drill kit. It matches the Milwaukee 2697-22CT by including a hammer drill function. The RIDGID model offers a 1/2-inch chuck and brushless motor. The Milwaukee uses a 4-pole frameless motor with DPM protection. This RIDGID kit provides high torque in a smaller package. The dimensions are 12 inches in length. You gain a hammer drill in a subcompact form. You give up the specific DPM protection and the Milwaukee's battery ecosystem. Pick this if you need masonry drilling in a compact tool. It fits users who want brushless efficiency and hammer drilling without the bulk of standard 18-volt kits.

FLEX 24V Brushless Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit

The FLEX FXM210-2C operates on a 24-volt system. The original Milwaukee 2697-22CT is an 18-volt kit. This higher voltage provides greater power density and RPM. The FLEX kit includes a 5.0 Ah battery. The Milwaukee includes two compact batteries. You gain significant torque and speed for demanding tasks. You lose compatibility with the Milwaukee M18 battery ecosystem. The FLEX tools are brushless for efficiency. The model FXM210-2C is designed for professionals needing raw power. Choose this if you want higher voltage output and do not mind a different battery platform. It suits users prioritizing power over standard 18-volt compatibility.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Milwaukee M18 Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit

Best for: Heavy-duty drilling and fastening tasks

Number of Tools

2

Voltage

18V

Battery Included

2 batteries and 1-hour charger included

Maximum Torque

1,400 in.-lbs.

Chuck Size

1/2 in. chuck, 1/4 in. hex

Included Accessories

1-hour charger, contractor bag

View on Amazon: Milwaukee M18 Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit Affiliate link

This Milwaukee M18 kit includes a 1/2-inch hammer drill and a compact impact driver. The drill delivers 450 inch-pounds of torque with 29,000 BPM. The impact driver provides 1,400 inch-pounds of torque. It comes with two M18 Compact batteries and a one-hour charger. You get a contractor bag for storage. This setup suits users needing reliable 18-volt power for drilling and fastening tasks.

Pros

• 1/2-inch hammer drill with 29,000 BPM
• Impact driver delivers 1,400 inch-pounds of torque
• Includes two M18 Compact batteries
• Digital Power Management protects against overload

Cons

• Uses older frameless motor instead of brushless
• Batteries are Compact capacity, not High Capacity
• Charger is standard one-hour model

Good fit if

• You need a heavy-duty 1/2-inch hammer drill
• You prefer the M18 battery ecosystem
• You want a contractor bag for transport

Skip if

• You require brushless motor efficiency
• You need High Capacity battery runtime
• You want fast charging capabilities

Verdict: Milwaukee M18 2-Tool Hammer Drill Combo offers high torque and durable protection for demanding jobs. It fits professionals who prioritize raw power and existing M18 tool compatibility over modern brushless efficiency.

2 Also great

Milwaukee M18 Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit

Best for: Contractors needing reliable cordless drilling and driving

Number of Tools

2

Voltage

18V

Included Tools

Hammer Drill Driver, Impact Driver

Battery Capacity

XC Extended Capacity

Battery Included

2 Batteries and Charger

Chuck Size

1/2 in., 1/4 in. Hex

View on Amazon: Milwaukee M18 Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit Affiliate link

This Milwaukee kit includes an 18-volt hammer drill and a compact impact driver. It features two XC extended capacity batteries and a multi-voltage charger. The set weighs 10.9 pounds and fits in a contractor bag. It suits users needing reliable cordless power for drilling and driving tasks. The included tools offer standard chuck sizes for common bit compatibility.

Pros

• Includes 1/2 inch hammer drill driver
• Features 1/4 inch hex compact impact driver
• Comes with two XC extended capacity batteries
• Includes M18 and M12 multi-voltage charger
• Portable contractor bag for storage

Cons

• Only includes two tools in the kit
• Does not mention brushless motor technology
• Lacks smart connectivity features like One-Key

Good fit if

• You need a reliable hammer drill and impact driver
• You prefer extended capacity XC batteries
• You want a portable contractor bag for transport

Skip if

• You require brushless motor efficiency
• You need smart tool tracking features
• You want more than two tools in the set

Verdict: Milwaukee M18 2-Tool Hammer Drill Kit provides solid performance for users who prioritize battery life and portability over advanced features. It is ideal for contractors who need dependable cordless tools without smart connectivity.

3 Best premium

Milwaukee M18 4-Tool Cordless Combo Kit

Best for: Users needing four tools including a saw and light

Number of Tools

4

Voltage

18V

Battery Capacity

3 amp hour

Battery Included

2 batteries and charger included

Chuck Size

1/4 INCH HEX

Included Accessories

Charger, tool case

View on Amazon: Milwaukee M18 4-Tool Cordless Combo Kit Affiliate link

This Milwaukee M18 kit includes four cordless tools: a hammer drill, impact driver, reciprocating saw, and work light. It comes with two 3 amp-hour batteries and a charger. The hammer drill features 18 torque settings. The saw uses a Quik Lok blade system. This setup suits users who need versatile power tools for drilling, driving, cutting, and lighting on job sites.

Pros

• Includes four distinct tools for varied tasks
• Two 3 amp-hour batteries provide extended runtime
• Hammer drill offers 18 torque settings
• Reciprocating saw features a Quik Lok blade system

Cons

• Battery capacity is lower than premium 5 amp-hour options
• Tools are brushed motors, not brushless
• No smart connectivity or app integration

Good fit if

• You need a reciprocating saw for cutting tasks
• You want a work light included in your kit
• You prefer a versatile 4-tool selection over a 2-tool set

Skip if

• You require brushless motors for maximum efficiency
• You need smart connectivity features
• You prefer higher capacity 5 amp-hour batteries

Verdict: Milwaukee M18 4-Tool Combo Kit fits users who value versatility and extra tools like a reciprocating saw and work light over raw power specs. It is a solid choice for general construction tasks where having four distinct tools is more important than having the highest capacity batteries.

4 Also great

Bosch 18V Brushless Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit

Best for: Users needing masonry drilling and compact storage

Number of Tools

2

Voltage

18V

Motor Type

Brushless

Battery Capacity

2 Ah

Battery Included

(2) 2 Ah batteries, charger

Maximum Torque

575 In.-Lbs. (hammer drill/driver)

View on Amazon: Bosch 18V Brushless Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit Affiliate link

The Bosch GXL18V-241B22 is an 18V two-tool combo kit featuring a brushless hammer drill/driver and a 2-in-1 impact driver/wrench. It delivers 575 in.-lbs. of torque in the drill. The kit includes two 2 Ah batteries and a carrying bag. This setup suits users who need masonry drilling capability and quick socket changes without carrying extra adapters. It offers solid performance for general construction tasks.

Pros

• Brushless motors for extended runtime
• 575 in.-lbs. max torque in hammer drill
• 2-in-1 impact driver/wrench with friction ring
• Includes carrying bag and two 2 Ah batteries

Cons

• Smaller 2 Ah battery capacity limits runtime
• Lower torque compared to FUEL competitors
• No smart connectivity features listed

Good fit if

• You need to drill into masonry or metal
• You want a single tool for driving and wrenching
• You prefer a compact carrying bag for transport

Skip if

• You require high-capacity batteries for all-day work
• You need maximum torque for heavy-duty structural work
• You want smart tool tracking or connectivity

Verdict: Bosch GXL18V 18V Brushless Combo provides a versatile hammer drill and 2-in-1 driver for users who value masonry capability and compact storage over raw power output.

5 Best budget

RIDGID 18V SubCompact Brushless 2-Tool Kit

Best for: compact DIY tasks

Number of Tools

2

Voltage

18V

Included Tools

Hammer Drill, Impact Driver

Motor Type

Brushless

Battery Capacity

2.0 Ah

Battery Included

(2) 2.0 Ah Batteries, Charger

View on Amazon: RIDGID 18V SubCompact Brushless 2-Tool Kit Affiliate link

This RIDGID kit includes a hammer drill and impact driver. Both tools use brushless motors for efficiency. It comes with two 2.0 Ah batteries and a charger. The set fits into a bag. This 18V cordless setup suits users who need compact tools. It is a practical option for light to medium tasks where portability matters.

Pros

• Brushless motor technology for longer life
• Includes two 2.0 Ah batteries
• Compact subcompact design
• Comes with a carrying bag

Cons

• Lower battery capacity than 4.0 Ah alternatives
• No smart connectivity features
• Only includes two tools in the set

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight kit for tight spaces
• You already own 18V RIDGID batteries
• You prefer brushless motor efficiency

Skip if

• You require high-capacity batteries for all-day work
• You need more than two tools
• You want smart app connectivity

Verdict: RIDGID 18V SubCompact Brushless 2-Tool Kit is a solid choice for users prioritizing compact size and brushless efficiency. It fits DIYers who need portability over raw power.

6 Also great

RIDGID 18V Sub-Compact Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit

Best for: compact tasks requiring high torque

Number of Tools

2

Voltage

18V

Included Tools

Hammer drill, impact driver

Motor Type

Brushless

Battery Capacity

1.5 Ah

Battery Included

2 batteries and charger included

View on Amazon: RIDGID 18V Sub-Compact Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit Affiliate link

This RIDGID kit includes a 1/2-inch hammer drill and an impact driver, both powered by 18V brushless motors. It delivers up to 1,800 in-lbs of torque. The set comes with two 1.5 Ah batteries and a charger. The sub-compact design fits into tight spaces. It is a solid option for users who need durable tools with a compact footprint.

Pros

• Brushless motors provide extended runtime and motor life
• 1,800 in-lbs of maximum torque for high performance
• Die-cast gear box enhances tool durability
• Quick-release hex collet simplifies bit changes

Cons

• 1.5 Ah battery capacity offers less runtime than higher-capacity options
• Sub-compact build may feel less robust for heavy-duty industrial use
• Includes only two tools in the kit

Good fit if

• You need a compact tool for tight spaces
• You value brushless motor efficiency
• You require high torque in a small package

Skip if

• You need more than two tools in your kit
• You require high-capacity batteries for long jobs
• You prefer a full-size hammer drill for maximum power

Verdict: RIDGID 18V Brushless Sub-Compact Combo is a reliable choice for users who prioritize compact size and brushless efficiency. It suits those who need high torque in a small form factor for general construction tasks.

7 Best 24v

FLEX 24V Brushless Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit

Best for: Users needing higher voltage power density

Number of Tools

2

Voltage

24V

Motor Type

Brushless

Battery Capacity

5.0Ah

Battery Included

2 batteries and charger included

Maximum Torque

2,500 in-lbs

View on Amazon: FLEX 24V Brushless Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit Affiliate link

This FLEX kit offers 24V brushless power in a two-tool bundle. It includes a hammer drill with up to 3,000 RPM and 1,500 in-lbs of torque, plus an impact driver delivering 2,500 in-lbs. The set comes with two 5.0Ah batteries and a 160W charger. You get a one-touch collet for quick bit changes and dual self-tapping modes for precise screw driving. It suits users needing higher voltage output from a compact cordless system.

Pros

• 24V brushless motor system for increased power density
• Hammer drill reaches 3,000 RPM with Turbo Mode
• Impact driver provides 2,500 in-lbs of torque
• One-touch collet allows single-handed bit changes
• Includes two 5.0Ah batteries and 160W charger

Cons

• Higher voltage may exceed standard 18V tool compatibility
• Only two tools included in the combo kit
• Hammer drill lacks a dedicated keyless chuck for quick size changes

Good fit if

• You need higher torque for dense materials
• You prefer the efficiency of brushless motors
• You want fast charging with a 160W unit

Skip if

• You only own or plan to buy 18V batteries
• You require a three-tool or larger kit
• You need a standard 18V ecosystem for all projects

Verdict: FLEX 24V Brushless 2-Tool Kit delivers distinct voltage advantages for users seeking higher RPM and torque in a compact form. It fits professionals who prioritize raw power output over standard 18V compatibility.

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See also

• milwaukee 0880 20 18v cordless lithium ion alternatives
• milwaukee m18 magnetic drill alternatives