Milwaukee M18 Cordless Combo Tool Kit Review Power and Durability Tested

Description

Benefits of the M18 Cordless Compact Combo Tool Kit

Testing the Milwaukee 2696-24 M18 Cordless Compact Combo Tool Kit revealed some impressive advantages that make it a versatile companion for various projects. The kit includes a 1/2-inch hammer drill/driver, a Sawzall reciprocating saw, a 1/4-inch hex impact driver, and a work light, all powered by Red Lithium batteries. This setup immediately struck me as well-rounded for tackling everything from light carpentry to demolition tasks. The cordless design combined with the high torque ratings—550 in-lbs on the hammer drill and an outstanding 1400 in-lbs on the impact driver—means I could power through jobs without worrying about cords or losing power mid-task.

The work light’s fold-away hook and 135-degree rotating head truly came in handy during low-light situations, especially when I was working in a cramped basement corner. It’s a small feature, but it made a noticeable difference in productivity. I also appreciated the balanced weight distribution of the tools, which helped reduce fatigue during extended use.

• Includes hammer drill, reciprocating saw, impact driver, and work light
• Powered by high-capacity Red Lithium batteries for long runtime
• Ergonomic design reduces user fatigue
• Work light with adjustable head and hands-free hook

Drawbacks to Consider

Despite the overall positive experience, several shortcomings popped up during use. The weight of the combo kit, while manageable, is on the heavier side at 21.6 pounds, which might be a concern for those needing ultra-light tools for extended usage. Additionally, the charger takes about an hour to fully recharge the batteries, which can feel like a bit of a wait when you’re in the middle of a project and reliant on continuous power.

Another downside is the plastic construction of some components, which, although durable, sometimes felt less premium compared to metal-bodied competitors. The reciprocating saw’s noise level was also noticeably high, which can be a nuisance in residential areas or shared workspaces. Lastly, the kit doesn’t include any extra blade or bit accessories, so you’ll need to factor in additional purchases to maximize its utility.

• Heavier than some competing kits at 21.6 lbs
• Charger requires about an hour for a full battery recharge
• Plastic parts feel less robust than metal alternatives
• Reciprocating saw is quite loud during operation

Versatility and Performance in Various Tasks

Using this combo kit across different projects, from drilling into hardwood to cutting through metal piping, I found the tools’ performance to be reliably strong. The hammer drill’s variable speed settings (0-450/0-1,700 rpm) allowed for precise control, which was especially useful when switching between materials like drywall and concrete. The impact driver delivered rapid torque for driving large screws without stalling, which impressed me during deck assembly work.

The reciprocating saw’s patented gear-protecting clutch and counterbalance mechanism reduced vibration noticeably, making it easier to handle for longer periods. This feature stood out compared to other saws I’ve used, where vibrations caused premature hand fatigue. The work light’s 100 lumen output provided just enough illumination without being blinding, which suited indoor and outdoor tasks perfectly.

Ergonomics and User Experience

My coworkers and I tested the tools in various scenarios, and ergonomics emerged as a significant plus. Each tool felt comfortable in hand, with thoughtfully placed grips and intuitive controls. The compact design suited tight spaces, and the red and black color scheme provided good visibility on job sites.

That said, the weight distribution varies slightly between tools, with the impact driver feeling a bit front-heavy. While this didn’t drastically affect performance, it did require a bit more wrist strength for precision work. The work light’s fold-away hook was a clever addition, allowing me to hang it on scaffolding or beams, which freed up both hands during complicated tasks.

Quality for Price: Is It Worth the Investment?

Assessing the price-performance of this combo kit, it offers solid value for the money considering the power and versatility packed into the four tools. The five-year warranty provides additional peace of mind, signaling the manufacturer’s confidence in durability. Although the kit is priced higher than some budget brands, the Red Lithium battery technology and inclusion of a work light elevate it beyond entry-level options.

I noticed that the contractor bag included is rugged and spacious, making transportation and storage easier, which adds to the overall package’s value. For DIY enthusiasts or professionals who need reliable cordless power tools with solid runtime, this kit represents a smart purchase. However, if weight is a priority or noise sensitivity is a concern, looking elsewhere might be beneficial.

Market Rivals and How This Kit Compares

Comparing this combo kit to popular competitors like DeWalt’s 20V MAX or Bosch’s 18V systems, the Milwaukee set shines in several areas. The hammer drill’s torque and speed range compete favorably, while the impact driver’s 1400 in-lbs torque edges ahead of many rivals. The Sawzall’s counterbalance mechanism is a standout feature not always found in competing reciprocating saws, reducing user fatigue effectively.

However, some rival kits offer more accessories or additional batteries, which could sway users needing complete setups out of the box. Bosch tools tend to be quieter and lighter, which might appeal more to users sensitive to noise or those requiring ultra-portable designs. DeWalt often impresses with battery compatibility across a broader range of tools, providing more ecosystem flexibility.

Overall, this combo kit excels in power and ergonomic design, but slightly lags in weight and accessory inclusions compared to its closest rivals.

Highlights Worth Noting

• Powerful M18 REDLITHIUM battery system ensures long run times and quick recharges
• Hammer drill and impact driver deliver high torque suitable for demanding tasks
• Reciprocating saw’s vibration reduction technology enhances comfort during use
• Work light with adjustable angles and hands-free hook boosts usability in dark spaces

Areas for Improvement

• The total weight may be cumbersome for extended handheld use
• Battery recharge time could be shorter for improved workflow
• Plastic components feel less premium compared to metal-bodied competitors
• Lacks included accessory bits and blades, requiring extra purchases

Testing the cordless combo kit from Milwaukee has been an insightful journey. Its thoughtfully engineered tools deliver on power and versatility, while some minor drawbacks like weight and recharge time deserve consideration depending on your specific needs. This kit strikes a balance between professional-grade features and user-friendly design, making it a solid choice for many tool users.

Additional information