Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Milwaukee M12 FUEL 12V Brushless Drill/Driver
Best Compact BrushlessMilwaukee M18 FUEL 18V Brushless Drill/Driver
Best OverallPrice
$180-$220
$179-$280
Summary
Don't let the 12V rating fool you — the M12 FUEL punches like an 18V drill in a package half the size. The Spruce called it 'a beast in disguise' after two years of real-world use.
The M18 FUEL is the drill professionals and serious DIYers reach for first. Brushless motor, 500 in-lbs max torque, and a 5-year warranty make it the most capable 18V drill you can buy.
Pros
- 400 in-lbs torque matches many heavier 18V drills
- Only 5.95 inches long — fits in the tightest spaces
- Brushless motor with exceptional battery life per The Spruce's 2-year test
- Includes 2.0Ah and 4.0Ah batteries in the kit for flexible runtime
- LED worklight, metal belt clip, and fuel gauge included
- Brushless motor delivers longer runtime and more power than brushed competitors
- 500 in-lbs max torque — highest in its class per CNET testing
- Industry-leading 5-year tool warranty, 2-year battery warranty
- M18 battery platform compatible with 100+ Milwaukee tools
- Compact design fits tight spaces despite 18V power
Cons
- Handle may feel too large for users with smaller hands
- Stiff speed selector switch reported by testers
- Lags slightly when drilling holes deeper than 1.5 inches with spade bits
- More expensive than comparable 12V brushed options
- Most expensive option on this list
- 1.5Ah batteries included in base kit are smaller capacity
- Overkill for light household tasks like furniture assembly
Our take
This is the drill I'd recommend to anyone who works in tight spaces or hates arm fatigue. At 2.5 lbs with 400 in-lbs of torque, it matches many 18V drills on performance while being dramatically easier to handle all day.
If you're going to invest in one drill that lasts a decade, this is it. Milwaukee's FUEL line is what tradespeople actually use daily — the brushless motor and build quality are in a different league from budget options.
Buy
