10 Best Milwaukee Drill and Impact Sets in 2026

After evaluating 10 top Milwaukee and Dewalt drill and impact sets, we break down the best compact brushless combos, hammer drill kits, and heavy-duty bundles for every type of work.

You need to drive long deck screws into hard lumber one minute and bore a clean hole through a stud the next. A mismatched pair of tools means swapping batteries, fumbling with different chucks, and carrying two chargers. A well-chosen drill and impact set solves that: matched tools on the same battery platform, designed to work together. The hard part is sorting through the dozens of combos that all look red, black, or yellow on the shelf.

We pulled together ten of the most popular Milwaukee and Dewalt drill and impact sets available right now. The list covers everything from ultra-compact M12 Fuel kits that disappear into a tool pouch to full-size hammer drill combos that plow through concrete. Some are brushless, some are brushed. Some include a reciprocating saw or a work light. The right one for you depends on what you're building, where you're working, and how heavy your daily use is.

TL;DR: The Milwaukee 3610‑22CT is our top pick for anyone who needs a hammer drill: brushless, compact, and built with all‑metal gearboxes. The Milwaukee 2892‑22CT is the classic brushless pair that gets most jobs done without fuss. The DEWALT DCK277D2 is the best brushless option from the yellow team. And the Milwaukee 2696‑24 is the big bundle if you want a Sawzall and work light in the same box.

# Product Key Specs Best For
1 Milwaukee 3610‑22CT M18 Hammer Drill/Impact Combo Brushless, M18, hammer drill, 2‑tool kit, CP2.0 batteries Heavy drilling into masonry or concrete
2 Milwaukee 2697‑22 M18 Hammer Drill/Impact XC Combo Brushless, M18, hammer drill, XC high‑capacity batteries All‑day jobs with longer runtime
3 Milwaukee M18TRADE Compact Brushless 2‑Tool Combo Brushless, M18, compact drill/impact, CP2.0 batteries Tight spaces and overhead work
4 Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless 2‑Tool Combo Kit Brushless, M18, compact, CP2.0 batteries Everyday driving and drilling
5 Milwaukee 2892‑22CT M18 Compact Brushless 2‑Tool Combo Brushless, M18, compact, includes (2) batteries Trusted workhorse for pros
6 Milwaukee M12 Fuel 2‑Tool Combo Kit Brushless, M12, hammer drill/impact, compact Lighter loads, tool‑bag portability
7 DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless 2‑Tool Combo Kit (DCK277D2) Brushless, 20V MAX, compact drill/impact, 2 batteries Power and balance in a Dewalt system
8 DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill/Impact Combo (DCK240C2) Brushed, 20V MAX, compact drill/impact, 2 batteries Budget‑conscious entry to Dewalt platform
9 Milwaukee 2691‑22 18V Compact Drill/Impact Combo Brushed, M18, compact drill/impact, 2 batteries Light‑duty home use
10 Milwaukee 2696‑24 M18 Cordless Compact Combo Tool Kit Brushed, M18, hammer drill, Sawzall, impact, work light, 2 XC batteries One‑box shop with saw and light

How we picked

Motor type: brushless vs. brushed. Brushless motors are more efficient, last longer, and deliver more torque per battery charge. Brushed motors are older tech but still perfectly fine for occasional use. Most of the picks here are brushless; we included two brushed kits for readers who don't need peak performance every day.

Hammer drill vs. standard drill. A hammer drill adds a hammering action for drilling into masonry, brick, or concrete. If your jobs rarely involve those materials, a standard drill saves weight and complexity. If you do any work with tapcons or anchors, the hammer function is worth having.

Battery platform and capacity. Milwaukee uses M18 and M12; Dewalt uses 20V MAX (which is the same as 18V nominal). Within each platform, battery capacity (Ah) determines runtime. High‑capacity XC batteries provide longer run time but add weight. Compact CP batteries keep the tool light for overhead work. Consider whether you already own other tools on the same platform.

Size and weight for the tasks you do. A compact drill is roughly 7 inches long and weighs under 3 pounds. A full‑size model can be 8‑9 inches and closer to 4 pounds. If you work in tight cabinets, inside walls, or above your head, the smaller tool matters. For benchtop work or open framing, a longer tool gives better leverage.

What's included in the kit. Some sets include only a drill and impact driver plus two batteries and a charger. Others throw in a reciprocating saw, a work light, or even a third tool. Think about whether you need those extras right now or would rather put the savings toward a separate saw later.

1. Milwaukee 3610‑22CT M18 Hammer Drill/Impact Combo Kit: Best for Heavy Drilling

Milwaukee 3610-22CT M18 Hammer Drill/Impact Combo Kit

Pros

  • Brushless motor with all‑metal gearboxes and gears
  • Hammer drill function for concrete and masonry
  • Compact size (7.6 inches front‑to‑back on the drill)
  • Includes two CP2.0 batteries and a charger

Cons

  • Batteries are compact (2.0 Ah), not high‑capacity
  • No carrying bag included in the kit

Best for Anyone who regularly drills into masonry or concrete and wants a brushless hammer drill that still fits into tight spaces.

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The 3610‑22CT is the newest generation of Milwaukee's compact hammer drill combo, and it shows. The drill's all‑metal gearbox and gears give it a solid, durable feel that you don't get from plastic‑housing kits. The hammer drill mode rattles through brick and concrete block without complaining, and the brushless motor keeps the tool running cool even under sustained load. The impact driver is paired well: brushless, compact, and powerful enough to sink 3‑inch screws into pressure‑treated lumber.

Where this kit falls short is battery capacity. The included CP2.0 batteries are great for keeping the tools short and light, but if you're driving lag bolts all day, you'll want to swap in a larger XC battery from another Milwaukee tool. The lack of a bag is also a minor annoyance. Still, for the price you get a hammer drill and impact driver that punch well above their size.

2. Milwaukee 2697‑22 M18 Hammer Drill/Impact Driver XC Combo Kit: Best All‑Around Hammer Drill Set

Milwaukee 2697-22 M18 Hammer Drill/Impact XC Combo

Pros

  • Hammer drill with all‑metal gear case and chuck
  • Two XC high‑capacity batteries (4.0 Ah each)
  • Drill delivers 500 in‑lbs of torque, 0–400/0–1800 RPM
  • Impact driver has 1/4‑inch hex quick‑connect chuck

Cons

  • Tools are longer than the compact brushless alternatives
  • Not as fast as the latest brushless generation

Best for Users who need a hammer drill and want long runtime from the included XC batteries without buying extras.

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This kit has been a staple on job sites for years. The 2697‑22 pairs a 1/2‑inch hammer drill with a 1/4‑inch impact driver, both powered by the M18 4‑pole frameless motor. The drill's all‑metal gear case and chuck mean it can take a knock without losing alignment. The impact driver uses a quick‑connect chuck that lets you swap bits one‑handed. The two XC 4.0 Ah batteries give noticeably more runtime than the compact 2.0 Ah packs that come with many other kits.

The trade‑off is size. The drill is 9‑ish inches long, and the whole rig weighs over 10 pounds with the batteries in the bag. It's not a tool you want to hold over your head for extended periods. The motor is also an older design: brushed, not brushless. That means less efficiency and a shorter service life if you use it heavily every day. For weekend warriors and light‑to‑medium construction, it's still a solid kit.

3. Milwaukee M18TRADE Compact Brushless 2‑Tool Combo KIT: Best Compact Brushless

Milwaukee M18TRADE Compact Brushless 2-Tool Combo

Pros

  • Both tools are brushless and very compact
  • Includes two CP2.0 batteries and a multi‑voltage charger
  • Drill is 1/2‑inch chuck, impact driver is 1/4‑inch hex
  • M18 and M12 charger works with future tool purchases

Cons

  • Batteries are compact (2.0 Ah)
  • No hammer function on the drill

Best for Homeowners, woodworkers, and electricians who need a nimble pair of tools for drilling and driving in tight spots.

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The M18TRADE kit is essentially the same core as the 3610‑22CT but without the hammer function. The drill is a 1/2‑inch compact brushless driver; the impact is a 1/4‑inch hex brushless driver. Both are notably short front‑to‑back, which makes a real difference when you're working inside a cabinet or between studs. The multi‑voltage charger handles both M18 and M12 batteries, so if you already own Milwaukee tools on either platform, this charger consolidates your charging station.

Where the kit feels lean is battery endurance. The CP2.0 packs are fine for a day of light work, but heavy users will need to buy additional XC batteries. The lack of a hammer drill also means you can't drill into concrete with this set. If your work rarely involves masonry, this combo is a lean, capable pair.

4. Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless 2‑Tool Combo Kit: Runner‑Up Compact

Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit

Pros

  • Brushless motor for efficiency and power
  • Compact design (claimed unrivaled access in tight spaces)
  • Red and black color option stands out in a toolbox

Cons

  • Only one feature listed on the product, so details are sparse
  • Batteries are likely CP2.0 (not confirmed)

Best for Someone who wants a compact brushless combo with an alternative SKU from the M18TRADE kit, possibly at a different price.

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This kit is very similar to the M18TRADE set, but it's listed as a separate SKU with the same compact brushless tools. The seller describes it simply as offering "unrivaled access in tight spaces." That matches the form factor: a short drill and impact driver that feel balanced in the hand. The brushless motor should give better runtime and longer tool life than older brushed kits.

The lack of detailed features from the product listing makes it hard to know exactly what you're getting, but the core tools are the same M18 compact brushless platform. If you find this SKU cheaper than the M18TRADE, it's a no‑brainer. Otherwise, the extra information on the M18TRADE kit makes it easier to recommend.

5. Milwaukee 2892‑22CT M18 Compact Brushless 2‑Tool Combo Kit: Proven Workhorse

Milwaukee 2892-22CT M18 Compact Brushless 2-Tool Combo

Pros

  • Brushless motor with longest run time in its class (per Milwaukee)
  • Compact design ideal for overhead and tight spaces
  • Part of the M18 system with over 175 compatible tools
  • Fastest application speed and most drilling power (Milwaukee claim)

Cons

  • Dimensions listed as 1x1x1 inches (likely a data error, but actual size is slightly longer than other compact models)
  • The included batteries are compact (2.0 Ah)

Best for Professionals who want the classic, widely‑tested M18 compact brushless pair that integrates with a whole system of tools.

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The 2892‑22CT is the kit that many M18 users cut their teeth on. It's been on the market for years, so there's a massive installed base of contractors who swear by it. The brushless drill driver and impact driver are compact enough to get into tight spaces, but they don't sacrifice power: the drill is rated for fast application speed and strong drilling. The impact driver pairs with Milwaukee's large fleet of M18 tools.

The kit includes two CP2.0 batteries and a multi‑voltage charger. The only real downside is that the compact batteries run out faster under heavy use. But if you already have XC batteries from a circular saw or angle grinder, you're set. This is a safe, proven choice if you want the most universally trusted M18 compact combo.

6. Milwaukee M12 Fuel 2‑Tool Combo Kit: Best Compact Lightweight

Milwaukee M12 Fuel 2-Tool Combo Kit

Pros

  • M12 Fuel brushless hammer drill and impact driver
  • Very light and compact (tools are smaller than M18 equivalents)
  • Hammer drill function in a tiny package
  • M12 platform has a huge tool selection

Cons

  • Smaller battery capacity (M12 batteries are lower Ah)
  • Not as powerful as full‑size M18 tools for heavy masonry

Best for Electricians, assemblers, and anyone who works in tight spaces all day and values weight savings over brute force.

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The M12 Fuel line is Milwaukee's answer to the question "but can it still be powerful?" The hammer drill driver and impact driver in this kit use the same brushless Fuel technology as M18 but in a much smaller chassis. The result is a pair of tools that can fit in the back pocket of a tool belt and drill into light masonry with the hammer setting. The impact driver is especially nimble for driving screws in tight corners.

The compromise is battery life and raw torque. M12 batteries top out at 6.0 Ah, but the compact packs that likely come with this kit are smaller. For light framing, electrical work, and general assembly, it's more than enough. For drilling multiple 1‑inch holes in concrete, you'll want an M18 hammer drill. This is a specialty kit for those who prioritize weight and compactness.

7. DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless 2‑Tool Combo Kit (DCK277D2): Best Brushless from Dewalt

DEWALT 20V MAX Brushless Combo DCK277D2

Pros

  • Brushless motor for efficiency and power
  • Compact 7.6‑inch front‑to‑back drill
  • Bright LED with 20‑second delay for dark spaces
  • Comfort grip handle for balance

Cons

  • No hammer drill function
  • Impact driver uses a quick‑release hex chuck (standard for Dewalt)

Best for Dewalt loyalists who want a brushless pair of compact tools for general drilling and driving.

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Dewalt's DCK277D2 is the brushless evolution of their classic DCK240C2. The drill is 7.6 inches long, which puts it in the same compact league as Milwaukee's M18 compact. The brushless motor gives better runtime and torque than the brushed version. The LED light with a 20‑second delay is genuinely useful when working inside a dark crawlspace. The comfort grip is well‑molded and actually makes a difference during extended use.

This kit lacks a hammer function, so it's not for masonry. It also uses Dewalt's standard chuck and quick‑release hex, which are fine but not as robust as some metal chucks. If you're already invested in the 20V MAX platform, this is the best brushless two‑tool combo Dewalt offers.

8. DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill/Impact Combo (DCK240C2): Best Entry‑Level Dewalt

DEWALT 20V MAX DCK240C2 Combo

Pros

  • Compact drill (7.5 inches) and impact driver (5.55 inches)
  • Integrated LED with 20‑second delay
  • One‑handed 1/4‑inch hex chuck on impact driver
  • Single‑sleeve ratcheting chuck on drill for secure bit grip

Cons

  • Brushed motors (less efficient than brushless)
  • Batteries are compact 1.3 Ah (limited runtime)

Best for DIYers and new tool owners who want a reliable Dewalt starter set without paying for brushless.

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The DCK240C2 is the most popular Dewalt drill and impact set by a wide margin. It's been a cornerstone of the 20V MAX system for years. The drill is compact and the impact driver is even smaller, making this a great pair for small projects around the house. The ratcheting chuck grip is a nice touch for preventing bit slip.

The brushed motors are the main limitation. They run hotter, drain batteries faster, and won't last as long under heavy daily use. The included batteries are only 1.3 Ah, which means frequent swaps. But for occasional use, this kit is still a solid way to get into the Dewalt ecosystem. It's the most basic entry point, and it works.

9. Milwaukee 2691‑22 18V Compact Drill/Impact Driver Combo Kit: Light‑Duty Home Use

Milwaukee 2691-22 Compact Drill/Impact Combo

Pros

  • Compact drill (7‑3/4 inches) weighs only 4 pounds
  • Impact driver delivers 1400 in‑lbs of torque
  • Built‑in LED lights and battery fuel gauges
  • Includes two compact batteries, charger, belt clip, and soft case

Cons

  • Brushed motors
  • Lower torque (drill 400 in‑lbs) compared to brushless kits
  • Older design

Best for Light home maintenance, furniture assembly, and drilling in wood and drywall.

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The 2691‑22 is one of Milwaukee's older compact kits. The drill puts out 400 inch‑pounds of torque, which is fine for drilling into wood and drywall but won't handle heavy steel or thick lumber with ease. The impact driver's 1400 in‑lbs is respectable for driving screws and lag bolts. The compact size and soft case make it easy to store and carry.

The brushed motors and lower specs mean this kit is best suited for occasional use. If you are a professional framing crew or do heavy renovations, you'll be frustrated by the lack of power and battery life. But for a home toolbox kit that you grab once a month, it's a functional and affordable Milwaukee option.

10. Milwaukee 2696‑24 M18 Cordless Compact Combo Tool Kit: The Heavy‑Duty Bundle

Milwaukee 2696-24 M18 Cordless Compact Combo Tool Kit

Pros

  • Includes hammer drill, Sawzall reciprocating saw, impact driver, and work light
  • Two M18 XC high‑capacity batteries and a 1‑hour charger
  • Sawzall has gear‑protecting clutch and counterbalance
  • Work light has 135‑degree pivoting head and fold‑away hook

Cons

  • Brushed motors on all tools (older tech)
  • Very heavy kit (over 21 pounds total)
  • Work light is basic, not an area light

Best for Someone who needs a complete starter set for renovation or demo work and wants a Sawzall included.

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The 2696‑24 is not just a drill and impact set. It also includes a Sawzall reciprocating saw and a work light, making it a four‑tool bundle. The hammer drill delivers 550 in‑lbs of torque, the impact driver puts out 1400 in‑lbs, and the Sawzall has a gear‑protecting clutch that reduces vibration. The work light's folding hook lets you hang it from a rafter for hands‑free illumination. The two XC 4.0 Ah batteries keep everything running a long time between charges.

The downside is that all four tools use brushed motors, which are less efficient and have shorter lifespans than modern brushless models. The kit is also heavy: over 21 pounds in the bag. If you need a Sawzall anyway, this bundle saves you from buying batteries and a charger separately. But if you want brushless tools, you'll need to piece together a kit on your own.

Buyer's guide: how to choose a Milwaukee drill and impact set

Choosing the right drill and impact set comes down to matching the tool platform, power level, and included extras to the work you actually do. These are the factors you should weigh.

Motor type: brushless vs. brushed

Brushless motors use an electronic controller to replace the brushes and commutator. That means less friction, better heat dissipation, and more torque per unit of battery energy. A brushless drill can drive more screws on a single charge than a brushed one of the same battery capacity. They also last longer because there are no brushes to wear out. If you use the tools daily or for sustained periods, brushless is worth the step up. For occasional weekend projects, a brushed kit like the Milwaukee 2691‑22 or Dewalt DCK240C2 will still get the job done.

Battery platform and capacity

Milwaukee has two main platforms: M18 and M12. M18 tools are larger and more powerful, suitable for drilling, driving, saws, and heavy‑duty applications. M12 tools are smaller and lighter, ideal for light fastening and tight spaces. Within each platform, battery capacity is measured in amp‑hours (Ah). Compact batteries (2.0 Ah) keep the tool light. High‑capacity XC batteries (4.0 Ah or more) provide longer runtime but add weight. If you already own other tools on one platform, buy a kit on the same platform so batteries are interchangeable.

Hammer drill capability

A hammer drill has a hammering mechanism that rapidly pulses the drill bit forward as it spins. This lets you drill into masonry, brick, and concrete. If your work involves tapcon screws, anchor bolts, or drilling through block walls, a hammer drill is necessary. For drilling only into wood, metal, and drywall, a standard drill is lighter and simpler. Some kits include a hammer drill, others don't. Choose based on your common materials.

Size and ergonomics

The physical dimensions of the tool determine how well it fits into tight spaces and how comfortable it is to use overhead. Compact drills are about 7‑8 inches long and weigh 2.5‑4 pounds. Full‑size drills can be 9‑10 inches. For electricians working inside panels or framers doing overhead work, compact tools are a big advantage. For bench work or open framing, a longer tool provides better leverage and control. Handle grip, weight distribution, and trigger feel also matter: try to hold the tool before buying if possible.

Included items and expandability

Some kits are pure drill and impact pairs. Others throw in extra tools like a reciprocating saw, a work light, or an oscillating tool. The Milwaukee 2696‑24 includes a Sawzall and light, which is great if you need those tools and want to avoid buying batteries separately. But the extra tools are often from the same generation (brushed or brushless) as the drill and impact, so you may be locked into older technology. If you plan to expand your tool collection later, consider whether the battery platform has a wide range of tools available. Milwaukee M18 and Dewalt 20V MAX both have extensive ecosystems.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a drill and an impact driver?

A drill uses a chuck that grips round‑shank bits and rotates at variable speeds. It is designed for drilling holes and driving screws with moderate torque. An impact driver uses a hexagonal collet that accepts 1/4‑inch hex bits and delivers rapid concussive blows in addition to rotation. This gives it much higher torque for driving long screws and lag bolts. Impact drivers are also shorter and lighter than drills, which makes them easier to use in tight spaces. Most professionals use both: a drill for hole‑making and an impact driver for fastening.

Can I use M12 batteries with M18 tools?

No. Milwaukee M12 and M18 batteries have different physical shapes, voltage levels, and connectors. M12 batteries are 12 volts and only work with M12 tools. M18 batteries are 18 volts and only work with M18 tools. However, some Milwaukee chargers are multi‑voltage and can charge both types.

Is a brushless motor worth the extra cost?

For anyone who uses the tools regularly, yes. Brushless motors are more efficient, which means more runtime per battery charge and higher torque output. They also run cooler and have no brushes to replace, so the tool lasts longer. If you use the tools only a few times a year, a brushed motor will still serve you well, but the efficiency gap is real.

Do I need a hammer drill for home projects?

Only if you plan to drill into masonry, brick, or concrete. For most home tasks like hanging shelves, assembling furniture, or drilling into wood and drywall, a standard drill is sufficient. If you anticipate installing tapcon screws into a concrete wall or doing any outdoor masonry work, invest in a hammer drill. Many of the kits we recommend come with a hammer drill option built in.

Which battery capacity should I choose for heavy use?

For a full day of work, go with high‑capacity batteries (4.0 Ah or higher). Compact 2.0 Ah batteries will run out quickly under sustained drilling or driving. If your kit comes with compact batteries, consider buying a second pair of XC batteries to rotate. A multi‑voltage charger can handle both sizes.

Can I use Dewalt 20V MAX batteries with Milwaukee tools?

No. Dewalt 20V MAX and Milwaukee M18 are incompatible. They are different voltage ratings (20V nominal vs 18V nominal), different battery shapes, and different tool interfaces. Stick to one platform to keep all batteries and chargers interchangeable.

What does "Fuel" mean on Milwaukee tools?

Milwaukee uses "Fuel" as its branding for the highest‑end brushless tools. Fuel tools use a brushless motor, a REDLINK PLUS intelligence system, and heavy‑duty components. They are Milwaukee's most powerful and efficient cordless tools. The M12 Fuel kit we cover in this guide is a compact Fuel pair.

Final verdict

The Milwaukee 3610‑22CT is the best drill and impact set for most people who need a hammer drill. It's brushless, compact, and has all‑metal gearboxes that can take a beating. If you don't need a hammer drill, the Milwaukee 2892‑22CT is the classic compact brushless pair that has proven itself on job sites for years. For Dewalt users, the DCK277D2 is the brushless kit to get.

If you want the lightest possible pair for electrical work or assembly, the M12 Fuel kit is unmatched in portability. And if you need a full shop in one box, the Milwaukee 2696‑24 gives you a drill, impact, Sawzall, and light on the same two batteries.

Still undecided? Buy the kit that matches the battery platform you already own. If you're starting fresh, go with the 3610‑22CT for the best combination of capability, build quality, and modern brushless efficiency.

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David Chen
David Chen

David Chen writes about keyboards, monitors, webcams, and the desk gear that makes a workspace work. He has a low tolerance for marketing specs that do not translate into a better day at the desk.

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