Which kit is better for a homeowner?

The 2-tool kit. It covers drilling and driving, weighs 13.46 lb and costs $149.99 at West Marine as of November 4, 2026. Most homeowners rarely need a recip saw or circular saw.

Which is better for remodeling or trade work?

The 5-tool kit. The hammer drill, SAWZALL and 6-1/2 in circular saw handle masonry, demo and framing, and the XC5.0 batteries run longer between charges.

Is the 5-tool kit worth the extra money?

Yes if you would otherwise buy a saw. At $399.99 at WoodArtSupply as of November 4, 2026, it adds three tools, two 5.0 Ah batteries and FUEL brushless motors over the $149.99 2-tool kit.

Do the batteries fit both kits?

Yes. Both are M18 18V tools, so the CP2.0 and XC5.0 packs and the included multi-voltage charger work across the M18 line.

Which has more power?

The 5-tool kit. Its FUEL brushless motors and XC5.0 batteries deliver more power and run time. The 2-tool kit's brushed drill is rated 550 in-lbs, fine for common drilling and driving.

The 5-tool kit is the safer bet. It has brushless motors and a 5-year warranty; the 2-tool kit uses a brushed motor and lists no warranty.

M18 Compact 2-Tool Combo Kit vs Milwaukee 3697-25 M18 FUEL 5-tool Kit

Buy the 2-tool kit if you want a light, compact drill and impact driver for home and light jobsite work. Buy the 5-tool kit if you need a hammer drill, recip saw and circular saw for framing, remodeling or trade work. The 2-tool kit is $149.99 at West Marine as of November 4, 2026, and the 5-tool kit is $399.99 at WoodArtSupply as of the same date. That is about $250 more for three extra tools, two larger batteries and FUEL brushless motors.

Today the M18 Compact 2-Tool Combo Kit costs $250.00 less at its best price.

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