Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
DeWalt 12V Max Cordless Drill
Best CompactMilwaukee 2903-22 18V Brushless Drill
Best Professional GradePrice
$100-$150
$200-$280
Summary
Wirecutter's top pick for everyday household tasks — compact, light, and surprisingly capable. Drilled 30 one-inch holes and sank 100+ screws on a single charge in testing.
The top pick for anyone who needs pro-level power and durability. Wirecutter calls it out as the benchmark 18V professional drill, and Milwaukee's M18 ecosystem is one of the most expansive on the market.
Pros
- Extremely compact and lightweight for easy one-handed use
- Impressive battery life — 30 holes and 100+ screws per charge in Wirecutter testing
- Wirecutter's top pick for common household projects
- DeWalt's reputation for build quality and reliability
- Professional-grade brushless motor for demanding tasks
- Part of Milwaukee's extensive M18 battery platform
- Highly regarded by both pros and serious DIYers
- Strong long-term durability and reliability reputation
Cons
- 12V limits power for heavy-duty drilling into masonry or thick lumber
- Smaller battery platform than 20V DeWalt lineup
- Comes with only one battery in some kit configurations
- Significantly more expensive than homeowner-grade options
- Overkill for light around-the-house tasks
- M18 batteries are pricier to expand
Our take
If you hate heavy tools and mostly hang pictures, assemble furniture, or do light repairs, this 12V DeWalt punches well above its size and weight.
If you're doing serious work or plan to build out a full tool ecosystem, Milwaukee is where you want to land. It costs more, but you'll never outgrow it.
Buy
