Looking Beyond the Milwaukee M12 Cordless Drill? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
Explore 6 alternatives to the Milwaukee M12 cordless drill. We compare published specs like weight, torque, and chuck size to help you choose the right tool.
By GaugeKit Editorial Team 6 min read
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The Milwaukee M12 Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Kit offers a compact 12V solution for tight spaces. If you are looking for milwaukee m12 cordless drill alternatives, you might need different specs for your specific tasks. This kit includes a drill driver and an impact driver with a 1.5Ah battery. It weighs 7.19 pounds and measures 6 inches in height. The 12V system provides portability but may lack the torque needed for heavier materials. You might prefer a higher voltage for more power or a different chuck size for larger bits. Some users seek brushless motors for longer runtime or better efficiency. Others may want a single tool instead of a two-tool combo kit. The alternatives listed here share key specifications with the original M12 system. They overlap in voltage, configuration, or intended use. This selection helps you find a tool that matches your exact requirements. Whether you need more torque, a different form factor, or a new brand, these options cover common needs. Each product is chosen because its published specs align with what you might be missing in the M12 setup. You can compare these choices to find the best fit for your workshop or job site.
How these alternatives compare
Bosch 12V Max 3/8-Inch Drill Driver Kit
The Bosch PS31-2A weighs just 3 pounds, making it significantly lighter than the Milwaukee M12 kit at 7.19 pounds. It offers a single drill driver with a 3/8-inch chuck, whereas the Milwaukee includes both a drill and an impact driver. You trade the versatility of a two-tool combo for extreme portability. This model suits overhead work or tight spaces where weight matters most. It lacks the second tool but provides high torque in a compact 12V form factor ideal for detailed DIY tasks.
WORKPROX 20V Brushless Drill and Impact Driver Kit
The WORKPRO X Series operates on a 20V platform, offering more potential power than the 12V Milwaukee system. It features brushless motors in both the drill and impact driver, which can improve efficiency and runtime. Like the Milwaukee, it is a two-tool kit, but it targets home DIYers who want compact tools with digital battery feedback. You gain voltage headroom and modern motor technology, though the specific weight and dimensions are not listed here. It is a solid choice for users prioritizing portability and digital indicators over brand ecosystem.
Milwaukee M18 1/2-Inch Drill Driver Kit
The Milwaukee M18 Compact Drill Driver steps up to an 18V system for users needing more torque than 12V tools provide. It includes only a drill driver with a 1/2-inch chuck, compared to the M12’s two-tool kit. It weighs 6.26 pounds, slightly less than the M12 combo kit. This model suits pros who value durability and moderate weight in a single-battery kit. You gain significant power and a larger chuck size but lose the included impact driver and the ultra-compact 12V form factor. It is ideal for general construction tasks requiring higher torque.
DEWALT 20V MAX Drill Driver with 100-Piece Bit Set
The DEWALT 20V MAX Compact Drill Kit operates on a 20V platform, offering higher voltage than the 12V Milwaukee M12. It includes a single drill driver and a comprehensive 100-piece bit set, providing more accessories but fewer tools than the Milwaukee’s two-tool kit. It is designed for general DIY tasks and tight spaces. You trade the included impact driver for a larger bit set and increased voltage. This model suits users who value compactness and included accessories over raw torque or having two separate tools in one box.
DEWALT DCD801H1 20V XR Brushless Drill
The DEWALT DCD801H1 20V XR Brushless Drill delivers serious power with a brushless motor and a 5.0Ah battery. It is a single drill driver with a 1/2-inch chuck, unlike the Milwaukee M12’s two-tool combo. It is larger and heavier, with a length of 9.92 inches and a width of 3.98 inches. This model suits pros who prioritize performance and runtime over compact size. You gain significant power and battery capacity but lose the impact driver and the ability to work in very tight spaces. It is ideal for heavy-duty drilling tasks.
Bosch 12V Right Angle Drill
The Bosch 12V Right Angle Drill shares the 12V platform with the Milwaukee M12 but features a unique right-angle design. It weighs only 2.75 pounds, making it much lighter than the Milwaukee kit. It includes a single drill driver with a 3/8-inch chuck, sacrificing the impact driver for maneuverability. This model suits users who need to drill or drive screws in confined spaces where standard drills cannot reach. You trade versatility and power for extreme access in tight areas. It is ideal for detailed work in tight spaces where standard tools fail.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Milwaukee M12 Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Kit Best overall | compact 12V tasks | |
| 2 | Bosch 12V Max 3/8-Inch Drill Driver Kit Best budget | lightweight overhead and tight-space tasks | |
| 3 | WORKPROX 20V Brushless Drill and Impact Driver Kit Best home | DIY home projects needing compact tools | |
| 4 | Milwaukee M18 1/2-Inch Drill Driver Kit Best premium | Users needing more power than 12V drills | |
| 5 | DEWALT 20V MAX Drill Driver with 100-Piece Bit Set Also great | General DIY tasks and tight spaces | |
| 6 | DEWALT DCD801H1 20V XR Brushless Drill Best 5.0ah | Heavy-duty drilling with long battery life | |
| 7 | Bosch 12V Right Angle Drill Also great | tight space drilling and screwdriving |
Milwaukee M12 Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Kit
Best for: compact 12V tasks
- Voltage
- 12-Volt
- Battery Capacity
- 1.5Ah
- Configuration
- Combo Kit (2-Tool)
- Included Tools
- Impact Driver, Drill Driver
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 1 × 1 × 6 inches
This Milwaukee M12 kit includes a drill driver and an impact driver. It uses a 12-volt lithium-ion battery with a 1.5Ah capacity. The total weight is 7.19 pounds. The tools are compact, measuring 6 inches in height. This setup suits users who need versatile power in a small form factor. It is ideal for tight spaces and light to medium duty tasks.
- Includes both a drill driver and an impact driver
- Compact 6-inch height for tight spaces
- Lightweight 7.19-pound total kit weight
- 12-volt power source for portability
- Lower 12-volt output compared to 18V or 20V alternatives
- Smaller 1.5Ah battery capacity limits runtime
- Heavier 7.19-pound weight than single tools
- You need two tools in one compact package
- You work in tight spaces where size matters
- You prefer a lighter 12-volt system
- You require high-torque 18V or 20V power
- You need extended runtime with larger batteries
- You want a single tool rather than a combo
Verdict: Milwaukee M12 12V 2-Tool Combo Kit fits users who prioritize portability and versatility in a compact form. It is a practical choice for those working in confined spaces who need both drilling and driving capabilities.
Bosch 12V Max 3/8-Inch Drill Driver Kit
Best for: lightweight overhead and tight-space tasks
- Voltage
- 12V Max
- Max Torque
- 265 In.-Lbs.
- Chuck Size
- 3/8 In.
- Maximum Speed
- 1,300 RPM
- Configuration
- Kit with 2 Batteries & Charger
- Included Tools
- Drill Driver
The Bosch PS31-2A is a 12-volt drill driver kit weighing 3 pounds. It delivers 265 in.-lbs. of torque and reaches 1,300 RPM. The 7-inch head length helps in tight spaces. You get two batteries and a charger. This setup suits light DIY tasks and overhead work where low weight matters.
- Weighs only 3 pounds for reduced fatigue
- Includes two 12V lithium-ion batteries
- 265 in.-lbs. max torque for driving
- 7-inch head length fits tight spots
- Lower 1,300 RPM top speed than 20V competitors
- Smaller 3/8-inch chuck limits bit compatibility
- 265 in.-lbs. torque is less than 18V models
- You need a lightweight tool for overhead work
- You require a compact drill for tight spaces
- You want two batteries included in the kit
- You need high torque for heavy construction
- You prefer a larger 1/2-inch chuck
- You require high-speed drilling over 1,300 RPM
Verdict: Bosch PS31-2A 12V Compact Drill fits users prioritizing light weight and compact size for detailed DIY tasks over raw power.
WORKPROX 20V Brushless Drill and Impact Driver Kit
Best for: DIY home projects needing compact tools
- Voltage
- 20V
- Max Torque
- 398 in-lbs
- Chuck Size
- 3/8"
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Maximum Speed
- 1,600 RPM
- Battery Capacity
- 2.0Ah
This WORKPRO X Series combo kit includes a 20V drill driver and a 20V impact driver. The drill delivers 398 in-lbs of torque with a 3/8-inch chuck. The impact driver provides 2,213 in-lbs of torque. Both tools use brushless motors and weigh under 2.5 lbs. The kit includes two 2.0Ah batteries with digital displays. It suits DIY home projects and general maintenance tasks.
- Brushless motors for reduced energy loss
- Impact driver includes reverse rotation auto-stop
- Batteries feature digital percentage displays
- Tools are compact and lightweight
- Drill torque is lower than many competitors
- Battery capacity is limited to 2.0Ah
- Drill speed maxes out at 1,600 RPM
- You need a lightweight drill for tight spaces
- You want a digital battery indicator
- You prefer a compact impact driver
- You require high-speed drilling over 1,600 RPM
- You need high-torque drilling above 398 in-lbs
- You prefer larger battery capacity options
Verdict: WORKPRO X Series 20V Drill & Impact Kit offers compact tools with brushless motors for DIYers who prioritize portability and digital battery feedback. It fits users who value lightweight handling over maximum speed or torque.
Milwaukee M18 1/2-Inch Drill Driver Kit
Best for: Users needing more power than 12V drills
- Voltage
- 18V
- Max Torque
- 500 in-lbs
- Chuck Size
- 1/2 Inch
- Motor Type
- 4-Pole Frameless
- Maximum Speed
- 1,800 RPM
- Configuration
- Compact Kit
This Milwaukee M18 kit offers 18V power in a compact form. It delivers 500 in-lbs of torque and speeds up to 1,800 RPM. The 4-pole frameless motor supports heavy-duty tasks. It includes one battery and a hard case. You should choose this if you need more power than 12V tools provide but want a manageable size for tight spaces.
- 18V voltage provides higher power potential than 12V competitors
- 500 in-lbs of max torque handles demanding fastening tasks
- 0-1,800 RPM speed range offers versatility for drilling and driving
- 4-pole frameless motor design enhances durability and efficiency
- Heavier at 6.26 pounds compared to lighter 12V drill options
- Only includes one battery in the kit configuration
- Lower max torque of 500 in-lbs than some 20V MAX competitors
- You need more torque than 12V tools can provide
- You prefer a compact tool that fits in tight spaces
- You want a durable motor with overload protection
- You require a 20V MAX system for maximum power
- You need two batteries included in the base kit
- You prioritize the lightest possible tool for overhead work
Verdict: Milwaukee M18 Compact Drill Driver suits users who need more torque than 12V tools offer but prefer a compact size. It is ideal for pros who value durability and moderate weight in a single-battery kit.
DEWALT 20V MAX Drill Driver with 100-Piece Bit Set
Best for: General DIY tasks and tight spaces
- Voltage
- 20V MAX*
- Configuration
- Kit
- Included Tools
- Drill Driver
- Power Source
- Cordless
This DEWALT 20V MAX cordless drill driver kit includes a compact tool and a 100-piece accessory set. The motor delivers 300 unit watts out of power, allowing you to handle a wide range of drilling and driving tasks. It features a compact design that fits into tight areas, making it useful for detailed work. The included bits cover various uses, providing immediate value.
- 300 unit watts out of power for diverse applications
- Compact and lightweight design fits into tight areas
- Includes 100-piece accessory set with popular bits
- Impact Ready and Pilot Point bit sets included
- 300 unit watts out is lower power than many 20V competitors
- 3/8-inch chuck capacity limits large bit usage
- You need a compact tool for tight spaces
- You want a complete kit with many bits
- You prefer a trusted brand for general tasks
- You require high-torque driving for heavy construction
- You need a brushless motor for longer life
- You want a right-angle drill for confined corners
Verdict: DEWALT 20V MAX Compact Drill Kit offers solid power and a comprehensive bit set for general home use. It suits DIYers who value compactness and included accessories over raw torque.
DEWALT DCD801H1 20V XR Brushless Drill
Best for: Heavy-duty drilling with long battery life
- Voltage
- 20V MAX
- Chuck Size
- 1/2 in.
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Maximum Speed
- 2,000 rpm
- Battery Capacity
- 5AH
- Configuration
- Kit with Battery and Charger
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR kit includes a brushless drill with a 5.0Ah PowerStack battery. It offers two speed settings reaching 2,000 rpm and a 1/2-inch metal ratcheting chuck. The anti-rotation system shuts down if motion is excessive. This setup suits users who need high torque and long runtime for demanding tasks.
- Brushless motor for efficient power delivery
- 5.0Ah battery capacity for extended runtime
- Anti-rotation system for improved control
- 1/2-inch metal ratcheting chuck for secure bit retention
- 12.8-inch length is bulkier than 12V compact models
- 20V MAX system requires different batteries than 12V tools
- You need a high-capacity battery for long jobs
- You prefer a brushless motor for efficiency
- You want a robust 1/2-inch chuck for larger bits
- You already own a full 12V system
- You need a compact tool for tight spaces
- You prefer lighter weight for overhead work
Verdict: DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Drill delivers serious power and runtime for pros who prioritize performance over compact size. It fits users who already have 20V batteries or want a single high-capacity pack for heavy-duty drilling.
Bosch 12V Right Angle Drill
Best for: tight space drilling and screwdriving
- Voltage
- 12V
- Max Torque
- 115 in-lbs.
- Chuck Size
- 3/8-Inch
- Maximum Speed
- 1,300 RPM
- Configuration
- Kit
- Included Tools
- Drill Driver
The Bosch PS11-102 is a 12-volt right angle drill driver designed for tight spaces. It delivers 1,300 RPM and 115 in-lbs of torque while weighing just 2.75 lbs. The pivoting head articulates from 90 to 180 degrees. This kit includes impact-rated bits for longer life. It suits users needing maneuverability in confined areas rather than high-speed drilling.
- 1,300 RPM maximum speed for efficient drilling
- 115 in-lbs max torque for driving tasks
- 2.75 lb lightweight design reduces fatigue
- 5-position pivoting head for tight access
- 115 in-lbs torque is lower than 18V competitors
- 1,300 RPM speed is lower than 20V models
- 3/8-inch chuck limits larger bit usage
- You need to drill in tight corners
- You prefer a lightweight tool for overhead work
- You require impact-rated bits for durability
- You need high torque for large holes
- You prefer a standard straight drill configuration
- You want maximum speed for fast drilling
Verdict: Bosch 12V Right Angle Drill fits users who prioritize maneuverability over raw power. It is ideal for detailed work in confined spaces where standard drills cannot reach.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Milwaukee M12 Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Kit | Bosch 12V Max 3/8-Inch Drill Driver Kit | WORKPROX 20V Brushless Drill and Impact Driver Kit | Milwaukee M18 1/2-Inch Drill Driver Kit | DEWALT 20V MAX Drill Driver with 100-Piece Bit Set | DEWALT DCD801H1 20V XR Brushless Drill | Bosch 12V Right Angle Drill |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 12-Volt | 12V Max | 20V | 18V | 20V MAX* | 20V MAX | 12V |
| Max Torque | – | 265 In.-Lbs. | 398 in-lbs | 500 in-lbs | – | – | 115 in-lbs. |
| Chuck Size | – | 3/8 In. | 3/8" | 1/2 Inch | – | 1/2 in. | 3/8-Inch |
| Motor Type | – | – | Brushless | 4-Pole Frameless | – | Brushless | – |
| Maximum Speed | – | 1,300 RPM | 1,600 RPM | 1,800 RPM | – | 2,000 rpm | 1,300 RPM |
| Battery Capacity | 1.5Ah | – | 2.0Ah | – | – | 5AH | – |
| Configuration | Combo Kit (2-Tool) | Kit with 2 Batteries & Charger | Combo Kit, 2 Batteries | Compact Kit | Kit | Kit with Battery and Charger | Kit |
| Kit Size | 2-Tool | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Included Tools | Impact Driver, Drill Driver | Drill Driver | Impact Driver, Drill Driver | Drill Driver | Drill Driver | Drill Driver | Drill Driver |
| Speed | – | Variable Speed | Variable Speed | – | – | – | – |
| Intended Use | – | DIY | DIY | – | – | – | – |
| Power Source | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | Cordless | – |
| Application | – | – | Home | – | – | – | – |
| Form Factor | – | – | – | Compact | – | – | – |
| Torque Level | – | High Torque | – | – | – | – | – |
| Dimensions | 1 × 1 × 6 inches | 4.5 × 3 × 8.6 inches | – | 6 × 3 × 9 inches | – | 9.92 × 3.98 × 12.8 inches | – |
| Weight | 7.19 pounds | 3 pounds | – | 6.26 pounds | – | – | 2.75 pounds |
| Model | 654121354 | PS31-2A | WX004656A | 2606-21CT | DCD771C2 | DCD801H1 | PS11-102 |
| Size | – | 7 in | – | – | – | – | – |
| Color | – | Blue | Grey | Red | Black Yellow | Black, Yellow | – |
If you require higher fastening torque, view milwaukee m12 brushless drill impact alternatives to compare motor ratings.
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the most compact design for tight spaces?
The Bosch 12V Right Angle Drill is designed specifically for confined areas. It features a 3/8-inch chuck and weighs only 2.75 pounds. This unique angle allows you to drill where standard drills cannot fit. It is a 12V cordless tool ideal for detailed work in tight spots.
What is the lightest option available in this list?
The Bosch 12V Right Angle Drill is the lightest at 2.75 pounds. The Bosch PS31-2A follows closely at 3 pounds. Both are significantly lighter than the Milwaukee M12 kit, which weighs 7.19 pounds. These lightweight options are best for overhead work or prolonged use without fatigue.
Which kit includes both a drill and an impact driver?
The Milwaukee M12 Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Kit includes both tools. The WORKPROX 20V Brushless Kit also provides a drill driver and impact driver. Most other options, like the Bosch PS31-2A and DEWALT 20V MAX, include only a single drill driver in the kit.
Are there brushless motor options for better efficiency?
Yes, the WORKPROX 20V Brushless Drill and Impact Driver Kit features brushless motors. The DEWALT DCD801H1 20V XR Brushless Drill also uses this technology. Brushless motors typically offer longer runtime and increased durability compared to brushed motors. These are suitable for users prioritizing efficiency and battery life.
Which tool has the largest chuck size for bigger bits?
The Milwaukee M18 Compact Drill Driver and the DEWALT DCD801H1 both feature a 1/2-inch chuck. This size accommodates larger drill bits and sockets. In contrast, the Bosch models and the WORKPROX kit use 3/8-inch chucks, which are better suited for smaller screws and lighter drilling tasks.
What is the highest voltage battery system listed here?
The WORKPROX, DEWALT 20V MAX, and DEWALT DCD801H1 kits operate on 20V systems. The Milwaukee M18 uses an 18V system. The Bosch and original Milwaukee M12 kits use 12V systems. Higher voltage generally provides more power for demanding tasks, while 12V systems offer greater compactness.
See also
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