Which is better for a new electrician building a first bag?

The Milwaukee kit. It gives you pliers, a stripper, cutters, a knife and a pouch in one $29.88 purchase at The Home Depot as of November 3, 2026. Add insulated screwdrivers later.

Which has insulated screwdrivers for panel work?

The Klein 85850. Its insulated drivers include #2 Phillips and #2 Square, which the Milwaukee kit does not list. The Milwaukee kit is not stated as insulated.

Is the Klein set worth about $20 more?

If you work in panels and switchgear, yes. S2 steel, precision tips and insulation are what you pay for. If you need pliers and a stripper too, the Milwaukee kit plus a separate insulated driver costs less.

The Klein screwdrivers have a stated twist-resistant blade anchor and S2 steel, which favors them for driver life. The Milwaukee pliers and cutters are the heavier-duty cutting tools of the two, but no lifespan is published for either.

Can I use the Milwaukee screwdrivers on live circuits?

No. The kit does not list insulated drivers. Use the Klein insulated set or another rated insulated driver for anything energized.

Do either include a pouch or case?

The Milwaukee kit includes a 15-pocket electrician's pouch with a quick-adjust belt. The Klein 85850 lists no case or pouch.

Milwaukee Electrician's Tool Kit vs Klein 85850 9-Piece Electrician Screwdriver Set

Buy the Milwaukee kit if you want a broad starter bag of electrical hand tools for the lowest outlay: $29.88 at The Home Depot as of November 3, 2026. Buy the Klein 85850 if screwdrivers are what you actually need, especially insulated ones for panel work: $49.98 at Lowe's as of November 3, 2026. The Milwaukee set covers more tool types; the Klein set covers one type far more thoroughly and with insulation.

Today the Milwaukee Electrician's Tool Kit costs $20.10 less at its best price.

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