Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Milwaukee M18 2606-22CT 18V Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
Best Value Heavy-DutyRIDGID 18V Brushless Cordless Drill Starter Kit
Best Heavy-Duty Value KitPrice
$149-$179
$179-$202
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.
800 in-lbs of torque and a 4.0Ah battery in a kit that pros say performs like Milwaukee and Makita at a fraction of the price. Backed by Home Depot's Lifetime Service Agreement — the best warranty deal in the category.
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
- 800 in-lbs of torque — more than most competitors at this price
- Includes 4.0Ah battery, charger, and carrying case in the kit
- Home Depot Lifetime Service Agreement covers normal wear and tear
- Brushless motor for efficiency and longevity
- 2,100 RPM max speed matches premium brands
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
- Heavier than competitors due to the larger 4.0Ah battery
- Home Depot exclusive — limited availability elsewhere
- Less brand recognition than Milwaukee or DeWalt on job sites
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.
The Ridgid is the dark horse of heavy-duty drills. Reviewers who work in the trades said it performed as well as professional brands — and the lifetime warranty means you're covered forever. Hard to beat that value proposition.
Buy
