Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Milwaukee M18 2606-22CT 18V Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
Best Value Heavy-DutyMilwaukee M18 FUEL 18V 1/2-Inch Hammer Drill/Driver Kit
Best Overall Heavy-DutyPrice
$149-$179
$229-$329
Summary
The highest maximum torque rating (500 in-lbs) of any 18V brushed drill, and it crushed the competition in high-torque tests by completing 20% more bored holes than second place. Best-in-class performance at a mid-range price.
The go-to drill for professionals who need serious power in a compact package. Dominates in torque, hammer drilling, and runtime — it's the drill serious tradespeople actually buy.
Pros
- 500 in-lbs maximum torque — highest in its class per CNET testing
- Completed 20% more bored holes than second-place finisher in lab tests
- 5-year tool warranty, 2-year battery warranty
- Charger supports both M18 and M12 batteries
- Includes hard carrying case and two 1.5Ah batteries
- Compact at ~7 inches yet powerful enough for 1.5-inch holes in steel and masonry
- AutoStop safety feature reduces injury risk on bind-up
- Includes two batteries so one charges while you work
- Brushless motor runs cooler and lasts longer than brushed alternatives
- 5-year tool warranty — best in class
Cons
- Most expensive 18V brushed drill in its category
- Only 1.5Ah batteries included — smaller capacity than some competitors
- Brushed motor (not brushless) means slightly shorter lifespan
- No true variable speed — only two-speed settings
- Doesn't include drill bits
- Premium price compared to budget alternatives
Our take
CNET's lab testing showed this drill outperformed every other 18V brushed drill in torque tests — that's not marketing, that's measured results. For the price, nothing else comes close on raw power.
If you're doing real work — framing, concrete, metalwork — this is the drill. Milwaukee's M18 FUEL platform is what pros reach for, and the hammer drill variant handles everything from wood to masonry without breaking a sweat.
Buy
