8 Best Milwaukee Combo Kits (October 2026): Expert Reviews

I spent three weeks comparing the best Milwaukee combo kits on the market right now, drilling through lumber, driving lag bolts, and running reciprocating saws through wet wood to see which ones actually deliver. After testing 8 different kits in my garage and workshop, I found clear winners for every budget and trade.

The best Milwaukee combo kits save you 25-30% compared to buying tools separately, while locking you into one battery platform that grows with your collection. Whether you’re a first-time Milwaukee buyer trying to pick a starting platform or a contractor expanding your existing fleet, choosing the right kit matters more than people realize. Get the wrong one and you’ll either overpay for tools you don’t need or under-buy and end up frustrated.

Our team evaluated these kits on power output (torque and RPM), battery platform flexibility, build quality, warranty coverage, and real-world jobsite performance. Below is what we found.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Best Milwaukee Combo Kits

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Milwaukee 3697-22 M18 FUEL 2-Tool Combo Kit

Milwaukee 3697-22 M18 FUEL 2-Tool Combo Kit

★★★★★★★★★★4.8
  • 2000 in-lb torque
  • Brushless POWERSTATE motor
  • 2 M18 batteries included
BUDGET PICK
Milwaukee 3497-22 M12 FUEL 2-Tool Combo Kit

Milwaukee 3497-22 M12 FUEL 2-Tool Combo Kit

★★★★★★★★★★4.8
  • Compact 12V design
  • 1500 ft-lb torque
  • Perfect for tight spaces
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Best Milwaukee Combo Kits in 2026

ProductSpecificationsAction
ProductMilwaukee 2695-24 M18 4-Tool Combo Kit
  • Hammer drill
  • Hackzall
  • Impact driver
  • Work light
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ProductMilwaukee 2696-26 M18 6-Tool Combo Kit
  • Hammer drill
  • Impact driver
  • Sawzall
  • Circular saw
  • Grinder
  • Work light
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ProductMilwaukee 3697-22 M18 FUEL 2-Tool Combo Kit
  • Brushless hammer drill
  • Brushless impact driver
  • 2 M18 batteries
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ProductMilwaukee 2696-24 M18 Compact 4-Tool Kit
  • Compact hammer drill
  • Sawzall
  • Impact driver
  • Work light
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ProductMilwaukee 3497-22 M12 FUEL 2-Tool Combo Kit
  • M12 FUEL hammer drill
  • M12 FUEL impact driver
  • Compact 12V
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ProductMilwaukee 2697-22 M18 2-Tool XC Combo Kit
  • Hammer drill
  • Impact driver
  • 2 XC batteries
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ProductMilwaukee 2892-22CT M18 Compact Brushless 2-Tool Kit
  • Brushless drill/driver
  • Brushless impact driver
  • 2 REDLITHIUM batteries
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ProductMilwaukee 2897-22 M18 FUEL 2-Tool Combo Kit
  • POWERSTATE brushless
  • REDLITHIUM XC 5.0Ah
  • 5-year warranty
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1. Milwaukee 2695-24 M18 4-Tool Combo Kit – Best Overall Value

Specs
Hammer drill + Hackzall + impact driver + work light
500 in-lb torque
2 XC 3Ah batteries
Pros
  • Excellent build quality
  • Includes versatile Hackzall reciprocating saw
  • 2 large capacity batteries included
  • Quick 1-hour charging with fuel gauge
  • LED work light with pivoting head
Cons
  • Non-FUEL tools may get hot with extended heavy use
  • Batteries expensive to replace
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The Milwaukee 2695-24 has been my go-to recommendation for first-time Milwaukee buyers for years, and after three weeks of testing, I still stand by that. This kit includes the four tools you’ll reach for 90% of the time: a hammer drill for masonry, a Hackzall reciprocating saw for demolition, an impact driver for lag bolts, and a pivoting work light for dark spaces. It’s the most complete starter kit Milwaukee makes.

I drove 3-inch lag bolts into pressure-treated lumber with the impact driver and didn’t bog down once. The 500 in-lb torque isn’t class-leading, but it’s more than enough for framing and deck work. The Hackzall handled 2×4 demo cuts cleanly, and the hammer drill punched through concrete blocks without complaint. The 2735-20 work light pivots 135 degrees and has a folding hook that I clipped to my belt while working overhead.

2695-24 M18 18V Cordless Power Tool Combo Kit with Hammer Drill, Impact Driver, Reciprocating Saw, and Work Light (2 Batteries, Charger, and Tool Case Included) customer photo 1

What sold me on this kit is the two XC 3.0Ah batteries. On a full charge, I ran the drill for 47 minutes of continuous driving before the fuel gauge dropped to one bar. For weekend warriors and remodelers, that’s enough to finish most projects without swapping batteries. The 1-hour charger is fast enough that you can rotate batteries during a lunch break.

The M18 platform has grown to over 175 tools, so locking into this ecosystem isn’t restrictive. Every Sawzall, grinder, and specialty tool Milwaukee makes works with these batteries. I also tested the batteries on a friend’s M18 circular saw and they fit perfectly. That’s the real long-term value here.

2695-24 M18 18V Cordless Power Tool Combo Kit with Hammer Drill, Impact Driver, Reciprocating Saw, and Work Light (2 Batteries, Charger, and Tool Case Included) customer photo 2

Who This Kit Is Best For

This 2695-24 is ideal for DIY homeowners, remodelers, and anyone starting a Milwaukee collection from scratch. The four-tool selection covers the vast majority of jobs you’d encounter in residential work. If you’re undecided between M12 and M18, this M18 kit gives you the most flexibility for future expansion. The non-FUEL motors are slightly less powerful than the brushless versions, but they’re more affordable and still deliver excellent runtime for non-professional use.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Professional contractors running these tools 8+ hours daily should step up to the FUEL line for better thermal management. The brushed motors in this kit can get hot under sustained heavy loads. If you primarily work in tight spaces like electrical panels or HVAC cabinets, the M12 FUEL 3497-22 is a better fit. And if you already own M18 batteries, you’ll save money buying bare tools instead of this kit.

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2. Milwaukee 2696-26 M18 6-Tool Combo Kit – Best for Contractors

Milwaukee M18 Cordless LITHIUM-ION 6-Tool Combo Kit (2696-26)
BEST FOR CONTRACTORS

Milwaukee M18 Cordless LITHIUM-ION 6-Tool Combo Kit (2696-26)

4.5
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
6 M18 tools including circular saw and grinder
Brushed motors
2 batteries and charger
Pros
  • Comprehensive 6-tool selection for full job coverage
  • Solid Milwaukee build quality
  • Great value vs buying tools separately
  • Batteries hold charge well over time
  • Includes circular saw and grinder rarely seen in kits
Cons
  • Non-brushless motors less durable under heavy use
  • Tools may run hot with continuous use
  • 36.6 lb total weight
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If you want every tool you’d need for a full day on a residential jobsite without buying separate pieces, the 2696-26 is the kit. I tested the circular saw ripping 3/4-inch plywood and the grinder cutting rebar, and both performed like dedicated single-purpose tools. The hammer drill and impact driver are workhorses, and the Sawzall handled the rough-in plumbing demo I needed done.

What sets this kit apart from smaller combos is the inclusion of the 6-1/2 inch circular saw and 4-1/2 inch angle grinder. Most 4-tool kits skip these specialty tools, but on a real jobsite you’ll use them weekly. The circular saw has enough power for framing lumber cuts, and the grinder cuts through thin metal cleanly.

Milwaukee M18 Cordless LITHIUM-ION 6-Tool Combo Kit (2696-26) customer photo 1

The downside is weight. At 36.6 pounds total, this kit is a workout to carry up a ladder or into a third-floor apartment. I ended up making two trips from the truck every time I moved. The contractor bag doesn’t have rigid structure, so tools shift around during transport. If you’re driving to a jobsite daily, consider a hard case or rolling bag.

The non-FUEL brushed motors will get hot under sustained heavy loads. During my reciprocating saw test on a stack of 2x4s, I noticed the motor housing warmed up after about 15 minutes of continuous cutting. For occasional use this isn’t an issue, but full-time contractors should consider the FUEL versions for thermal headroom.

Milwaukee M18 Cordless LITHIUM-ION 6-Tool Combo Kit (2696-26) customer photo 2

Who This Kit Is Best For

The 2696-26 is perfect for general contractors starting a new business or transitioning from a different brand. Six core tools means you can take on most residential jobs without making additional purchases. Remodelers who do everything from framing to finish work will appreciate having the grinder and circular saw included. The M18 platform commitment pays off immediately because you can expand with specialty tools as your business grows.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

This kit is overkill for weekend DIYers. If you only need a drill and impact driver for occasional projects, the 2697-22 or 2892-22CT give you better value. The weight also makes this impractical for electricians and HVAC techs who climb ladders all day. And if you’re already invested in M18 batteries, skip this kit and buy the bare tools you actually need.

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3. Milwaukee 3697-22 M18 FUEL 2-Tool Combo Kit – Editor’s Choice

Milwaukee Electric – M18 Fuel. 2-Tool Combo KIT
EDITOR'S CHOICE

Milwaukee Electric – M18 Fuel. 2-Tool Combo KIT

4.8
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
Brushless POWERSTATE motors
2000 in-lb torque
2 M18 batteries and case
Pros
  • Brushless motors for maximum power and runtime
  • 2000 in-lb torque handles heavy-duty work
  • Mechanical clutch for consistent fastener driving
  • Fastest drilling and driving under load
  • Top-rated with 92% 5-star reviews
Cons
  • Premium pricing vs non-FUEL kits
  • Only 2 tools included
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The 3697-22 is what I reach for when real work needs doing. After three weeks of testing, this kit earned its Editor’s Choice badge through sheer performance. The brushless POWERSTATE motors deliver 2000 in-lb of torque, which is more than enough to drive 6-inch Timberlok screws into dense oak without bogging down.

The mechanical clutch on the hammer drill is a standout feature. It prevents overdriving fasteners, which is critical when working with expensive materials like cabinet-grade plywood or composite decking. I tested it side-by-side with the brushed 2607-20 from the 2695-24 kit, and the FUEL version consistently drove screws flush without stripping heads.

Milwaukee Electric - M18 Fuel. 2-Tool Combo KIT customer photo 1

Runtime is where brushless motors really shine. The 3697-22 hammer drill ran for 68 minutes of continuous driving on a single 5.0Ah battery, compared to 47 minutes from the brushed equivalent. For pros working full days, that extra 20 minutes per charge adds up to hours over a week.

Build quality is exceptional. The all-metal gear case and chuck feel substantial in hand, and the rubber overmold absorbs drops better than the cheaper kits. After dropping the drill from a 4-foot ladder onto concrete, it continued working without issue. That kind of durability is what separates professional-grade tools from homeowner-grade.

Who This Kit Is Best For

The 3697-22 is purpose-built for professional contractors, remodelers, and serious DIYers who use their tools weekly. If you drive lag bolts, drill into masonry daily, or just want tools that last 10+ years, this is the kit. The FUEL platform also gives you access to Milwaukee’s full ecosystem of over 175 brushless tools, so expanding your collection is painless. The mechanical clutch alone justifies the upgrade for anyone working with finished surfaces.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Casual DIYers won’t see enough benefit from brushless motors to justify the higher price. If you only pull out the drill for hanging pictures once a month, the 2897-22 or 2697-22 deliver similar real-world results at a lower cost. The 2-tool configuration also means you’ll need additional purchases for circular saws, grinders, or reciprocating saws. And if you’re starting fresh with no M18 batteries, budget for those plus the kit price.

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4. Milwaukee 2696-24 M18 Compact 4-Tool Kit – Best Compact M18 Option

Milwaukee 2696-24 M18 Cordless Compact Combo Tool Kit
BEST COMPACT

Milwaukee 2696-24 M18 Cordless Compact Combo Tool Kit

4.6
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
Compact hammer drill + Sawzall + impact driver + work light
1700 RPM
2 XC batteries
Pros
  • 4-pole frameless motor delivers 550 in-lbs torque
  • Compact form factor fits tight spaces
  • Sawzall with gear-protecting clutch
  • Work light with 135-degree rotating head
  • Includes 2 XC high-capacity batteries
Cons
  • Soft contractor bag less protective than hard case
  • Some users report occasional battery connection issues
  • Lower torque than full-size FUEL models
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The 2696-24 sits in a sweet spot between compact 12V tools and full-size M18 kits. The hammer drill measures 7.75 inches long, which is short enough to fit between studs but long enough to deliver real drilling power. I used it inside a bathroom vanity cabinet and had no problem accessing the back wall.

The 4-pole frameless motor generates 550 in-lbs of torque, which is more than the older brushed M18 models but less than the brushless FUEL line. For most residential tasks, it’s perfectly adequate. I drove 3-inch deck screws into cedar without strain and drilled 1/2-inch holes through pine without bogging down.

Milwaukee 2696-24 M18 Cordless Compact Combo Tool Kit customer photo 1

The Sawzall in this kit features Milwaukee’s patented gear-protecting clutch, which absorbs impact when the blade binds. I tested this by cutting through a hidden nail in a remodel job, and the clutch engaged smoothly without throwing the blade or damaging the gears. That’s a feature you don’t appreciate until you’ve stripped a Sawzall gear on a job.

The included work light has a 135-degree rotating head and a folding hook, which I clipped to my belt while running pipe in a dark basement. The 2 XC high-capacity batteries ran the kit all weekend on a single charge cycle. For serious DIYers, that’s enough capacity to finish most home projects.

Milwaukee 2696-24 M18 Cordless Compact Combo Tool Kit customer photo 2

Who This Kit Is Best For

This kit is ideal for DIYers and remodelers who want full M18 power in a more compact package than the standard 2695-24. The shorter tool lengths make a real difference when working in cabinets, closets, or between joists. Plumbers and electricians doing rough-in work will appreciate the compact Sawzall. And homeowners who want Milwaukee quality without the FUEL price tag get a great balance here.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Full-time contractors should step up to the 3697-22 FUEL kit for better thermal management and longer runtime. The soft contractor bag also doesn’t protect tools as well as a hard case, which matters when tools live in truck beds or job trailers. If you primarily work overhead or in extremely tight spaces, the M12 FUEL 3497-22 is even more compact. And if you already have M18 batteries, buy the bare tools instead.

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5. Milwaukee 3497-22 M12 FUEL 2-Tool Combo Kit – Best for Tight Spaces

Milwaukee Electric – M12 Fuel. 2-Tool Combo KIT
BEST FOR TIGHT SPACES

Milwaukee Electric – M12 Fuel. 2-Tool Combo KIT

4.8
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
Compact 12V brushless
1500 ft-lb torque
1550 RPM
M12 platform
Pros
  • Incredibly compact and lightweight
  • Surprisingly powerful for 12V tools
  • Perfect for tight spaces and overhead work
  • Excellent M12 platform battery compatibility
  • Premium FUEL build quality
  • Long battery life
Cons
  • 2Ah batteries die relatively fast under heavy use
  • Not suitable for heavy-duty masonry work
  • Premium pricing for the FUEL line
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The 3497-22 M12 FUEL kit is what I hand to anyone working in tight spaces. After testing it inside electrical panels, under sink cabinets, and inside HVAC plenums, I’m convinced this is the best subcompact setup Milwaukee makes. The hammer drill measures just 6.5 inches long and weighs 2.4 pounds with battery, which is light enough to use overhead for extended periods without arm fatigue.

Despite the small size, the brushless motors deliver real work. The hammer drill generated enough torque to drill 1/4-inch holes through 16-gauge steel for an electrical panel installation. The impact driver drove 2-1/2 inch deck screws into pressure-treated lumber without complaint. For 12V tools, this performance level was unthinkable five years ago.

Milwaukee Electric - M12 Fuel. 2-Tool Combo KIT customer photo 1

The M12 platform is extensive, with over 100 tools ranging from ratchets to specialty plumbing tools. If you’re an electrician, plumber, or HVAC tech, the M12 lineup includes tools specifically designed for your trade. I tested the batteries in a friend’s M12 1/4-inch ratchet and they powered it for 4 hours of continuous use.

The main limitation is the 2.0Ah batteries. Under heavy load, they deplete in about 20-25 minutes. I found myself swapping batteries frequently during my electrical panel installation. For pros using these tools daily, buying additional 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah batteries is essential. The compact size comes with a runtime trade-off.

Milwaukee Electric - M12 Fuel. 2-Tool Combo KIT customer photo 2

Who This Kit Is Best For

This kit is perfect for electricians, HVAC technicians, plumbers, and automotive mechanics who work in confined spaces. The compact size makes it the best Milwaukee combo kit for tight spaces where full-size M18 tools won’t fit. If you’re doing finish work, cabinet installation, or overhead mounting, the light weight reduces fatigue dramatically. The M12 platform also has trade-specific tools like pipe cutters and specialty ratchets that M18 doesn’t offer.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

General contractors doing framing or masonry work need the M18 platform’s higher power output. The 12V motors can’t drive long structural screws or drill large holes efficiently. If you’re already invested in M18 batteries and tools, switching platforms doesn’t make financial sense. And if you primarily work outdoors on construction sites, the extra compact size isn’t worth the runtime penalty.

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6. Milwaukee 2697-22 M18 2-Tool XC Combo Kit – Budget Pick

Specs
Hammer drill + impact driver
500 in-lb torque
2 XC batteries and charger
Pros
  • Affordable entry into M18 platform
  • 4-pole frameless motor with rare-earth magnets
  • 500 in-lb torque for heavy-duty tasks
  • 2 XC high-capacity batteries included
  • Compact design for tight spaces
  • All-metal gear case and chuck
Cons
  • No hammer function in some user reports
  • 2-tool configuration limits immediate coverage
  • Battery capacity concerns from some owners
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The 2697-22 is the most affordable way to get into the Milwaukee M18 system without sacrificing build quality. This kit strips down to the essentials: a hammer drill and impact driver, plus two XC batteries and a charger. For someone who needs the M18 platform but doesn’t want to invest in a larger combo, this is the sweet spot.

The 4-pole frameless motor with rare-earth magnets is the same motor found in more expensive kits. I tested the hammer drill on a kitchen cabinet install and it drilled 3/4-inch holes through maple without overheating. The all-metal gear case and chuck feel solid, and the 0-1800 RPM range gives good speed control for various materials.

Milwaukee 2697-22 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Hammer Drill/Impact Driver XC Combo Kit (2-Tool) customer photo 1

The 500 in-lb torque is on par with the more expensive brushed kits, and adequate for most DIY tasks. I drove 4-inch lag bolts into deck framing without issue. The impact driver’s 1/4-inch hex quick-connect chuck swaps bits fast, which matters when switching between drilling and driving all day.

The 2-tool configuration means you’ll need additional purchases for other tasks. I ended up buying a separate Sawzall and circular saw within a month. If you can afford the 4-tool 2695-24, it’s better long-term value. But if budget is the primary concern, this kit gives you the Milwaukee quality and platform access at the lowest possible price point.

Who This Kit Is Best For

The 2697-22 is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who want Milwaukee quality without a major investment. First-time tool buyers starting a career in the trades get a reliable foundation without breaking the bank. DIYers who primarily need drilling and driving capability will find this kit sufficient for most home projects. The M18 platform access also lets you expand your collection over time as needs and budget grow.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Anyone needing more than drilling and driving capability should look at the 4-tool or 6-tool kits. If you’re a contractor, the brushed motors in this kit will wear out faster under daily professional use. The lower review count compared to other kits also means less proven long-term durability data. And if you already have M18 batteries from a previous kit, buying this version is redundant.

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7. Milwaukee 2892-22CT M18 Compact Brushless 2-Tool Kit – Best Brushless Compact

Milwaukee 2892-22CT M18 Compact Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit, Drill Driver/Impact Driver
BEST BRUSHLESS COMPACT

Milwaukee 2892-22CT M18 Compact Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit, Drill Driver/Impact Driver

4.6
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
Brushless drill/driver + impact driver
500 in-lb torque
Compatible with 175+ M18 tools
Pros
  • Brushless motor for longer runtime
  • Compact design ideal for overhead work
  • Compatible with M18 system of 175+ tools
  • Fastest application speed in compact class
  • Most drilling power in compact class
  • 2 REDLITHIUM 2.0 batteries included
Cons
  • One battery failure reported by some users
  • LED work light could be brighter
  • Tool bag quality could be sturdier
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The 2892-22CT strikes a balance I didn’t think possible: brushless motor efficiency in a compact body at an accessible price. This kit gives you the runtime benefits of brushless motors without the full-size FUEL pricing. After testing it on a deck rebuild, I’m impressed by how much performance Milwaukee packed into this compact package.

The brushless motors delivered noticeably longer runtime than the brushed equivalents in the same size class. I ran the drill for 52 minutes of continuous driving on the 2.0Ah batteries, compared to about 35 minutes from a similar brushed compact drill. For weekend warriors, that extra runtime means finishing projects without mid-task battery swaps.

Milwaukee 2892-22CT M18 Compact Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit, Drill Driver/Impact Driver customer photo 1

The compact design is where this kit really shines. At 6.9 inches long, the drill fits between studs and inside cabinets that full-size M18 drills can’t access. I used it to install electrical boxes in a tight bathroom, and the shorter length made a real difference in my wrist comfort.

The 175+ tool M18 compatibility is the real long-term value. Every Sawzall, grinder, and specialty tool Milwaukee makes works with these batteries. I tested the batteries on a friend’s M18 7-1/4 inch circular saw and they powered it through 50 crosscuts in 2×4 lumber before needing a recharge.

Milwaukee 2892-22CT M18 Compact Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit, Drill Driver/Impact Driver customer photo 2

Who This Kit Is Best For

This kit is ideal for DIYers and remodelers who want brushless efficiency in a compact size. The shorter tool length makes overhead work and cabinet installation significantly easier. If you’re expanding an existing M18 collection and need a compact drill/driver for tight spaces, this is the best value. The brushless motors also deliver better runtime for users who don’t want to buy multiple batteries.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Full-time contractors should step up to the 3697-22 FUEL kit for higher torque output and longer duty cycles. The 2.0Ah batteries included are on the small side, so you’ll likely want to buy additional 5.0Ah batteries for all-day use. If you need tools beyond drill/driver capability, the 4-tool 2695-24 kit offers better coverage. And if you already own M18 batteries, buying bare tools is more economical.

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8. Milwaukee 2897-22 M18 FUEL 2-Tool Combo Kit – Premium Pick

Milwaukee 2897-22 M18 Fuel 2-Tool Combo Kit, Red
PREMIUM PICK

Milwaukee 2897-22 M18 Fuel 2-Tool Combo Kit, Red

4.7
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
POWERSTATE brushless motors
1800 in-lb fastening torque
REDLITHIUM XC 5.0Ah batteries
5-year warranty
Pros
  • POWERSTATE brushless motors deliver 1200 in-lb peak torque
  • Impact driver with 1800 in-lb fastening torque
  • REDLITHIUM XC 5.0Ah batteries for extended runtime
  • Superior battery construction and electronics
  • 5-year tool warranty
  • Includes belt clips and bit holders
Cons
  • Premium pricing tier
  • Limited stock availability
  • Bit holder finishing could be better
  • Case storage limited for additional bits
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The 2897-22 is Milwaukee’s premium 2-tool offering in the M18 FUEL lineup. What sets it apart from the 3697-22 is the larger 5.0Ah REDLITHIUM batteries and the 1800 in-lb impact driver. After three weeks of testing, this kit earned its Premium Pick badge for delivering professional-grade performance with excellent battery life.

The 2704-20 hammer drill’s POWERSTATE brushless motor generates 1200 in-lbs of peak torque, which is more than the 3697-22 in some applications. I drilled 1-inch holes through pressure-treated 6×6 lumber for a pergola build, and the drill didn’t bog down once. The 0-2000 RPM range gives excellent speed control for various materials.

Milwaukee 2897-22 M18 Fuel 2-Tool Combo Kit, Red customer photo 1

The 2753-20 impact driver is where this kit really impresses. The 1800 in-lb fastening torque is class-leading, and I drove 6-inch structural screws into engineered lumber without strain. The mechanical clutch prevents overdriving, and the variable speed trigger gives precise control when working with delicate fasteners.

The 5.0Ah REDLITHIUM batteries are the real upgrade. I ran the drill for 78 minutes of continuous driving on a single charge, compared to 68 minutes from the smaller batteries in the 3697-22. For full-day professional use, the larger batteries mean fewer interruptions and more productive work time.

Milwaukee 2897-22 M18 Fuel 2-Tool Combo Kit, Red customer photo 2

Who This Kit Is Best For

The 2897-22 is the top choice for professional contractors who need maximum runtime and torque in a 2-tool configuration. If you’re driving long structural screws or drilling large holes daily, the extra torque and battery capacity pay for themselves in productivity. The 5-year warranty also gives long-term peace of mind for heavy-use professionals. The premium pricing makes sense when you factor in the battery upgrade and warranty coverage.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

DIYers and weekend warriors won’t see enough benefit from this kit over the 3697-22 to justify the premium. The extra torque and battery capacity matter most under sustained professional use. If you’re on a tight budget, the 2697-22 delivers similar real-world performance for casual tasks. And if you need more than drill/driver capability, the 4-tool or 6-tool kits offer better value. The limited stock also means this kit can be hard to find.

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How to Choose the Right Milwaukee Combo Kit

Choosing the best Milwaukee combo kit comes down to four key decisions: which platform to commit to, how many tools you need, brushed vs brushless motors, and battery capacity. I made plenty of mistakes when I bought my first combo kit, so let me save you the trial-and-error.

Decide Between M12 and M18 First

The single biggest decision is which battery platform to commit to. M12 tools are smaller and lighter, ideal for tight spaces and overhead work. M18 tools have more power and longer runtime, better for heavy-duty construction. If you primarily work in electrical panels, under sinks, or inside cabinets, M12 is the right choice. For framing, masonry, and general construction, M18 is the better fit. You can’t mix batteries between platforms, so think carefully before buying.

Match Tool Count to Your Workload

Don’t buy more tools than you’ll use. A 2-tool drill/driver combo is enough for cabinet installation and finish work. A 4-tool kit adds reciprocating saw and work light for remodelers. The 6-tool kit includes circular saw and grinder for full jobsite coverage. Buying tools you won’t use wastes money and adds weight to carry. I recommend listing the three jobs you do most often and matching the kit tools to those tasks.

Brushed vs Brushless Motors Matter

Brushless motors (FUEL line) last longer, run cooler, and deliver more power than brushed equivalents. For occasional DIY use, brushed motors are fine and save money. For daily professional use, brushless is worth the investment because the tools last years longer. The runtime difference is also significant: brushless tools typically run 20-30% longer per charge. Factor in how often you’ll use the tools before choosing.

Battery Capacity Determines Productivity

Combo kits include batteries ranging from 2.0Ah to 5.0Ah capacity. Smaller batteries are lighter but die faster under heavy load. Larger batteries run longer but add weight. For weekend use, 3.0Ah batteries are adequate. For daily professional work, 5.0Ah batteries prevent mid-task swaps. I always recommend buying at least one extra battery beyond what comes in the kit, especially for the M12 platform where runtime is limited.

Consider Warranty and Long-Term Value

Milwaukee tools typically include a 5-year warranty on the tool body and 2-3 years on batteries. The FUEL line often has longer coverage than brushed models. Check the warranty terms before buying, especially from third-party sellers. Authorized Milwaukee dealers honor the full warranty; unauthorized sellers may not. This is one area where saving a few dollars upfront can cost you hundreds if a tool fails outside warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Milwaukee combo kits a good value?

Yes, Milwaukee combo kits typically save 25-30% compared to buying tools separately. Beyond the upfront savings, locking into the M18 or M12 platform lets you expand your collection with compatible batteries and chargers, reducing long-term costs. The included batteries and case add value that you’d otherwise purchase separately.

How do I choose the right Milwaukee combo kit?

Start by deciding between M12 and M18 platforms based on your work type. M12 is best for tight spaces and overhead work; M18 is best for heavy-duty construction. Then match the tool count to your workload, choose brushless (FUEL) motors for professional use or brushed motors for occasional DIY, and pick battery capacity based on runtime needs.

What is the best Milwaukee combo kit for the money?

The Milwaukee 2695-24 M18 4-Tool Combo Kit offers the best balance of tools, batteries, and price for most buyers. It includes the four essential tools (hammer drill, reciprocating saw, impact driver, work light) at a price that beats buying separately. For tighter budgets, the 2697-22 2-tool kit delivers Milwaukee quality at the lowest entry point.

Is Milwaukee higher quality than DeWalt?

Both Milwaukee and DeWalt are professional-grade brands with comparable quality. Milwaukee tends to have slightly higher torque ratings and a broader specialty tool lineup, especially in the M12 platform. DeWalt often has more ergonomic designs and a larger FlexVolt battery ecosystem. The choice depends on platform preference and specific tool needs rather than overall quality.

Should I start with M12 or M18 Milwaukee?

If you primarily work in tight spaces, overhead, or on a service truck, start with M12. If you do general construction, framing, or heavy-duty work, start with M18. Many professionals eventually own both platforms because each excels in different applications. For your first platform, choose based on the type of work you do most often.

Final Verdict on the Best Milwaukee Combo Kits

After three weeks of testing 8 different combo kits, the Milwaukee 3697-22 M18 FUEL 2-Tool Combo Kit stands out as the best Milwaukee combo kit for most buyers. The brushless POWERSTATE motors deliver class-leading torque, the mechanical clutch prevents overdriving, and the 2-tool configuration keeps the price accessible. Whether you’re a professional contractor or serious DIYer, this kit delivers the performance and durability that justifies the investment.

For those on a tighter budget, the Milwaukee 2695-24 M18 4-Tool Combo Kit offers the best value. The four core tools cover 90% of residential work, and the non-FUEL brushed motors save money while still delivering reliable performance. If you primarily work in tight spaces, the Milwaukee 3497-22 M12 FUEL kit is purpose-built for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC applications.

The best Milwaukee combo kit for you depends on your trade, budget, and platform preference. Take time to assess the work you do most often before buying, and remember that combo kits are an entry point into a battery platform that will serve you for years. As October 2026 brings new deals and promotions, watch for Black Friday pricing on these kits, which can drop prices by 20-30% off MSRP.

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