Looking Beyond the Milwaukee M18 18V Cordless Power Tool Combo Kit? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How alternatives compare to Milwaukee

Makita 18V LXT Compact 2-Tool Combo Kit

The Makita 18V LXT Compact 2-Tool Combo Kit focuses on portability rather than volume. It includes a 5.0 Ah and a 1.5 Ah battery, whereas the Milwaukee set provides three batteries of varying capacities. The Makita kit lacks storage bags and additional tools like saws or grinders. It weighs significantly less due to the smaller box size. You should choose this if you need lightweight tools for tight spaces. It sacrifices the extensive tool range and organized storage of the Milwaukee 8-Tool set for easier handling and lower bulk. This option suits light-duty tasks where carrying eight tools is unnecessary.

Makita 18V LXT Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit

The Makita 18V LXT Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit prioritizes motor technology over quantity. It features brushless motors, which offer better efficiency and durability compared to standard brushed motors often found in larger kits. It includes a single 5.0 Ah battery, while the Milwaukee kit provides three batteries. The Makita set excludes storage bags and additional tools like circular saws or grinders. It is heavier per tool but lighter overall as a package. Choose this if you value high-torque performance and longevity in just two core tools. It gives up the versatility of an eight-tool arsenal for focused, high-quality basics.

Makita 18V LXT Sub-Compact Brushless 2-Tool Kit

The Makita 18V LXT Sub-Compact Brushless 2-Tool Kit is designed for confined spaces. It uses brushless motors and includes a 5.0 Ah and a 1.5 Ah battery. The Milwaukee kit offers three batteries and eight tools in heavy-duty bags. This Makita kit is much smaller, measuring 9.25 inches in length. It lacks the extensive tool range and storage solutions of the Milwaukee set. You should pick this for overhead work or tight areas where bulk is a problem. It sacrifices raw power and variety for extreme compactness. This is a specialized choice for users who prioritize maneuverability over having a complete set of tools.

Milwaukee M18 Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit

The Milwaukee M18 Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit keeps you within the same brand ecosystem but reduces the tool count. It includes a hammer drill and impact driver, whereas the Milwaukee 8-Tool set adds a circular saw, grinder, reciprocating saw, multi-tool, and work light. This kit likely includes fewer batteries and lacks the two contractor bags. It is lighter and more portable. Choose this if you only need drilling and driving capabilities. It gives up the comprehensive utility of the 8-Tool set for a simpler, more focused setup. This is ideal for contractors who already own other M18 tools or only perform basic fastening tasks.

RYOBI ONE+ 18V Drill and Circular Saw Kit

The RYOBI ONE+ 18V Drill and Circular Saw Kit targets homeowners rather than professionals. It includes a drill driver and circular saw with a 5.0 Ah and 1.5 Ah battery. The Milwaukee 8-Tool set offers eight tools, three batteries, and two heavy-duty bags. This RYOBI kit is smaller and lighter, measuring 13 inches in length. It lacks the durability and extensive tool range of the Milwaukee professional kit. Choose this for basic home repair tasks. It gives up the versatility and runtime of the Milwaukee set for a simpler, more affordable entry point. This suits users who only need a drill and saw for occasional projects.

Milwaukee M18 FUEL Brushless 7-Tool Combo Kit

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Brushless 7-Tool Combo Kit offers a middle ground between the 2-tool and 8-tool sets. It includes seven brushless tools, one less than the Milwaukee 8-Tool set, and likely fewer batteries. It focuses on brushless motor efficiency for better runtime and durability. The kit excludes one tool from the 8-Tool set, such as the work light or multi-tool. It includes a single 5.0 Ah battery. Choose this if you want high-performance brushless tools but do not need every single accessory. It gives up one tool for a potentially lighter, more efficient package. This is ideal for crews that value motor technology over maximum tool count.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Milwaukee M18 18V 8-Tool Cordless Combo Kit

Best for: contractors needing a full 8-tool set

Number of Tools

8

Voltage

18V

Battery Capacity

Two high-capacity, one compact

Battery Included

3 batteries and charger included

Included Accessories

Charger, 2 tool bags

Power Source

Cordless

View on Amazon: Milwaukee M18 18V 8-Tool Cordless Combo Kit Affiliate link

This Milwaukee M18 18V Cordless Power Tool Combo Kit includes eight tools: a hammer drill, impact driver, circular saw, angle grinder, reciprocating saw, multi-tool, and work light. It comes with three batteries (two high-capacity, one compact) and a charger. The set is stored in two heavy-duty contractor bags. This kit suits users needing a broad range of tools for construction, remodeling, and maintenance tasks.

Pros

• Includes eight essential tools for various tasks
• Comes with three batteries for extended runtime
• Two heavy-duty contractor bags for organized storage

Cons

• Heavier build at 25 pounds total
• Larger footprint with 24.5-inch length
• Includes one compact battery with lower capacity

Good fit if

• You need a wide variety of tools in one kit
• You value organized storage with included bags
• You require high-capacity batteries for extended use

Skip if

• You prefer a lighter, more portable setup
• You only need a couple of specific tools
• You want a more compact storage solution

Verdict: Milwaukee M18 8-Tool 18V Kit is a comprehensive solution for professionals needing a full range of tools and organized storage. It fits contractors who prioritize versatility and runtime over portability.

2 Also great

Makita 18V LXT Compact 2-Tool Combo Kit

Best for: light-duty tasks in tight spaces

Number of Tools

2

Voltage

18V

Included Tools

1/2 in. driver-drill, impact driver

Battery Capacity

1.5 Ah

Maximum Torque

1,460 in. Lbs.

Chuck Size

1/2 in.

View on Amazon: Makita 18V LXT Compact 2-Tool Combo Kit Affiliate link

This Makita 18V LXT kit includes a compact driver-drill and an impact driver. The drill offers 480 in. lbs. of torque with two speeds. The impact driver delivers 1,460 in. lbs. of torque. Both tools weigh under 3.3 lbs. with the included 1.5 Ah battery. This setup suits users who prioritize lightweight, compact tools for tight spaces over high-capacity batteries.

Pros

• Compact drill weighs only 3.3 lbs with battery
• Impact driver reaches 1,460 in. lbs. max torque
• Ergonomic handles with rubberized soft grips
• Drill features two speeds for varied tasks

Cons

• Includes only 1.5 Ah batteries for limited runtime
• Two-tool set lacks additional tools found in larger kits
• Drill torque is lower than impact driver output

Good fit if

• You need lightweight tools for overhead work
• You work in tight spaces requiring compact designs
• You already own higher-capacity Makita 18V batteries

Skip if

• You require a large number of tools in one kit
• You need high-capacity batteries for all-day jobs
• You prefer brushless motors for maximum efficiency

Verdict: Makita 18V Compact 2-Tool Kit fits users who value lightweight, compact designs for tight spaces over high-capacity batteries. It is ideal for light-duty tasks where portability matters more than raw power or runtime.

3 Also great

Makita 18V LXT Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit

Best for: Users needing durable, high-torque basics

Number of Tools

2

Voltage

18V

Included Tools

Hammer driver-drill, impact driver

Motor Type

Brushless

Battery Capacity

5.0 Ah

Maximum Torque

1,590 in.-lbs.

View on Amazon: Makita 18V LXT Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit Affiliate link

The Makita XT297T is an 18V LXT cordless combo kit featuring a brushless hammer driver-drill and impact driver. It includes two 5.0 Ah batteries and a Rapid Optimum Charger. The impact driver delivers 1,590 in.-lbs. of torque with four speed settings. Its XPT technology offers dust and water resistance. This kit suits users who prioritize durability and runtime in a compact two-tool package.

Pros

• Brushless motors optimize battery energy for up to 50% longer run time
• Impact driver features four speed settings for precise control
• XPT engineering improves resistance to dust and water
• Rapid Optimum Charger actively controls current and temperature

Cons

• Includes only two tools, limiting immediate versatility
• Hammer drill lacks the high-speed range of larger drills
• No included carrying case or storage bag listed

Good fit if

• You need a durable, weather-resistant starter kit for basic jobs
• You value long battery runtime from 5.0 Ah cells
• You prefer brushless motor efficiency in a compact form

Skip if

• You require a full set of eight or more tools
• You need a dedicated carrying case included in the box
• You are looking for a hammer drill with higher RPM ranges

Verdict: Makita 18V Brushless 2-Tool Kit delivers robust torque and runtime for focused tasks, making it ideal for users who want quality over quantity in their initial power tool investment.

4 Also great

Makita 18V LXT Sub-Compact Brushless 2-Tool Kit

Best for: tight spaces and overhead work

Number of Tools

2

Voltage

18V

Motor Type

Brushless

Battery Capacity

1.5Ah

Maximum Torque

350 in.lbs.

Power Source

Cordless

View on Amazon: Makita 18V LXT Sub-Compact Brushless 2-Tool Kit Affiliate link

This Makita CX203SYB kit includes a 2.9 lb sub-compact drill and 1.5 Ah battery. It features a brushless motor with 350 in.lbs. of torque. The metal gear housing adds durability. The compact 5-7/8 inch length fits tight spaces. It suits users needing lightweight tools for detailed work or overhead tasks. The 1.5 Ah battery offers quick charging but shorter runtime.

Pros

• Brushless motor delivers 350 in.lbs. of peak torque.
• Lightweight 2.9 lb weight with battery reduces fatigue.
• Compact 5-7/8 inch length fits tight spaces.
• Metal gear housing increases durability.

Cons

• Small 1.5 Ah battery limits runtime.
• Only includes two tools.
• Sub-compact size may lack power for heavy-duty tasks.

Good fit if

• You need lightweight tools for overhead work.
• You work in tight spaces.
• You want durable metal gear housing.

Skip if

• You need high-capacity batteries for long jobs.
• You require more than two tools.
• You prefer full-size power for heavy-duty drilling.

Verdict: Makita Sub-Compact 18V Brushless 2-Tool Kit is ideal for users who prioritize weight and compactness over raw power and battery life. It fits those doing detailed or overhead work in confined areas.

5 Best impact driver

Milwaukee M18 Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Kit

Best for: contractors needing a hammer drill

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 kit includes an 18V hammer drill and a compact impact driver. It comes with two extended capacity XC batteries and a multi-voltage charger. The set weighs 10.9 pounds and fits in a contractor bag. You get a 1/2-inch chuck on the drill and a 1/4-inch hex on the driver. It suits users who need reliable 18V power in a compact form.

Pros

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

Cons

• Only includes two tools in the set
• Total kit weight is 10.9 pounds
• Lacks a hard case for storage

Good fit if

• You need a hammer drill for masonry
• You want extended battery capacity
• You prefer a contractor bag for transport

Skip if

• You require more than two tools
• You need a hard protective case
• You want a sub-compact drill size

Verdict: Milwaukee M18 2-Tool Hammer Drill Kit provides essential 18V power with extended battery life. It is ideal for contractors who need a hammer drill and impact driver in a portable bag.

6 Best budget

RYOBI ONE+ 18V Drill and Circular Saw Kit

Best for: basic home repair tasks

Number of Tools

2

Voltage

18V

Included Tools

Drill/driver, circular saw

Battery Capacity

1.5 Ah

Battery Included

2 batteries and charger included

Power Source

Cordless

View on Amazon: RYOBI ONE+ 18V Drill and Circular Saw Kit Affiliate link

This RYOBI ONE+ kit includes an 18V drill/driver and circular saw. It comes with two 1.5 Ah batteries and a charger. The set weighs 10 pounds and measures 13 by 9 by 8 inches. You get a compact setup for basic home projects. The 1.5 Ah capacity suits light tasks. It fits users who need just two essential tools.

Pros

• Includes drill/driver and circular saw
• Two 18V batteries provided
• Compact 10-pound weight
• 18V platform compatibility

Cons

• Small 1.5 Ah battery capacity
• Only includes two tools
• No brushless motor mentioned

Good fit if

• You need a drill and saw
• You prefer lightweight gear
• You want basic 18V tools

Skip if

• You need more than two tools
• You require long battery life
• You want professional grade power

Verdict: RYOBI ONE+ 18V 2-Tool Kit offers a simple start for homeowners. It fits those who only need a drill and saw for light work.

7 Best premium

Milwaukee M18 FUEL Brushless 7-Tool Combo Kit

Best for: contractors needing seven specific tools

Number of Tools

7

Voltage

18V

Motor Type

Brushless

Battery Capacity

5.0 Ah

Battery Included

Two 5.0 Ah Batteries, 1 Charger

Chuck Size

1/2 in.

View on Amazon: Milwaukee M18 FUEL Brushless 7-Tool Combo Kit Affiliate link

This Milwaukee M18 FUEL kit includes seven brushless tools powered by two 5.0 Ah batteries. It features a hammer drill, impact driver, reciprocating saw, circular saw, grinder, impact wrench, and LED work light. The REDLINK PLUS intelligence protects tools during heavy use. You get a comprehensive set for various construction tasks. The system offers extended runtime and durability for professional daily demands.

Pros

• Seven brushless tools for versatile job site tasks
• Two 5.0 Ah REDLITHIUM batteries for extended runtime
• REDLINK PLUS intelligence prevents tool overload
• Includes dedicated LED work light for visibility
• Mid torque impact wrench with 4-mode drive control

Cons

• Heavier build at 13.7 pounds compared to compact kits
• Larger footprint requires more storage space in contractor bags
• Grinder uses a paddle switch which may feel less ergonomic to some users

Good fit if

• You need a complete set of seven essential tools for daily professional use
• You require high torque and brushless motor efficiency for heavy-duty cutting and drilling
• You want extended battery runtime with two 5.0 Ah packs included

Skip if

• You prefer lightweight sub-compact tools for overhead or tight-space work
• You already own a large portion of the M18 system and need fewer tools
• You prioritize minimal weight and compact storage over tool variety

Verdict: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 7-Tool Brushless Kit delivers comprehensive power for contractors who need seven specific tools in one purchase. You get maximum versatility and runtime, making it ideal for crews that value having every essential tool ready on site.

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Frequently asked questions

See also

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