Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Milwaukee 2903-22 18V Brushless Drill
Best Professional GradeRyobi 18V HP Brushless Drill
Best OverallPrice
$200-$280
$100-$160
Summary
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.
The undisputed community favorite for home use. Brushless motor means longer life and better performance, and the massive ONE+ battery ecosystem means your investment grows with every tool you add.
Pros
- 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
- Brushless motor lasts longer and delivers better performance than brushed models
- Compatible with Ryobi's massive ONE+ 18V battery ecosystem
- Excellent bang-for-buck value for home use
- Frequently goes on sale during Ryobi Days events with free battery deals
Cons
- Significantly more expensive than homeowner-grade options
- Overkill for light around-the-house tasks
- M18 batteries are pricier to expand
- Not ideal for heavy professional or jobsite use
- Battery platform less premium than Milwaukee or DeWalt
- Brushless models cost more upfront than brushed versions
Our take
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.
Reddit is nearly unanimous on this: for homeowners, Ryobi brushless is the answer. The Ryobi Days sale makes it even harder to argue against.
Buy
