Which is better for drilling into concrete?

The M12 FUEL 3497-22. It has a hammer drill mode; the M18 2691-22 is a drill driver only.

Which has more torque?

The M18 kit on paper: 1,700 in-lbs on the impact driver and 550 in-lbs on the drill. Milwaukee does not publish torque for the M12 subcompact pair.

The M12 FUEL should, because its brushless motor has no brushes to wear out. The M18 kit's spec sheet lists a brushed motor.

Is the M12 kit worth $49 more?

Yes if you want brushless, hammer mode, a 4.0Ah battery and a lighter kit. No if you mostly fasten and drill wood and want to save money.

Which is better for overhead work?

The M12 kit. It weighs about 8.5 lb as a kit and the tools are the most compact in their class.

Do both include batteries and a charger?

Yes. The M18 kit has two CP2.0 packs; the M12 kit has one 4.0Ah and one 2.0Ah pack. Both include a charger and a bag.

M18 Compact 2-Tool Combo Kit vs Milwaukee M12 FUEL 3497-22

Buy the M12 FUEL 3497-22 if you want the most compact, brushless 12V kit with a hammer drill and a 4.0Ah battery. Buy the M18 2691-22 if you want 18V power and a lower price. The M12 kit is $199.00 at Amazon as of November 4, 2026; the M18 kit is $149.99 at West Marine as of November 4, 2026.

Today the M18 Compact 2-Tool Combo Kit costs $49.01 less at its best price.

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