Which kit is better for routing hardwoods?

The Milwaukee. Its router reaches 31,000 RPM and Milwaukee claims 250 ft. of 3/8 in. roundover in red oak per XC5.0 charge. The DEWALT router is capable but spins slower at the top end.

Which jigsaw cuts faster?

The Milwaukee jigsaw, at 3,500 strokes per minute versus about 3,200 on the DEWALT DCS334. Both are brushless and both use T-shank blades.

Is the DEWALT kit worth it if I already own 20V MAX batteries?

Yes. You get the router, jigsaw, a 5.0Ah pack and the DCB118 fast charger, and the tools share batteries with your existing 20V MAX gear. That usually beats starting on a new platform.

Do both kits include a battery and charger?

Yes. Each kit ships with one 5.0Ah battery and a charger: an M18 XC5.0 and standard charger from Milwaukee, a DCB205 and DCB118 fast charger from DEWALT.

Which router is easier to set depth on?

The Milwaukee, thanks to its micro-adjust dial plus macro-adjust button. The DEWALT uses a conventional plunge base with a depth rod and turret, which is fine but slower for fine tweaks.

Which kit lasts longer on one charge?

Milwaukee publishes a runtime figure: 250 ft. of roundover in red oak and 105 lin. ft. of cutting in laminated particle board for the jigsaw. DEWALT does not publish a comparable number, so the Milwaukee claim is the only one you can check.

M18 FUEL 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Compact Router & Jig Saw Combo Kit (2-Tool) W/5.0Ah Battery & Charger vs DEWALT 20V MAX Router Tool and Jig Saw, Cordless Woodworking 2-Tool Set with Battery and Charger

Both kits pair a compact cordless router with a D-handle jigsaw and one 5.0Ah battery plus charger, so the choice comes down to platform and feel. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL kit is the stronger pick for heavy routing in hardwoods, with a 31,000 RPM top speed and a claimed 250 ft. of 3/8 in. roundovers in red oak per charge. The DEWALT 20V MAX kit is the simpler, lighter-feeling option and its DCB118 fast charger tops the battery up quicker than a standard charger. No current prices were provided for either kit, so compare live store prices before deciding.

Ask our shopping agent