Milwaukee M12 Drill/Impact Combo Kit vs Makita 18V LXT Brushless 2-Pc Combo Kit

The Makita 18V LXT kit is the stronger all-round choice for most shoppers: 18V power, brushless motors, a 4-speed impact driver and two batteries make it a better fit for sustained drilling and driving in wood, metal and masonry. The Milwaukee M12 kit wins on size and weight, with a 5-inch impact driver that fits into cabinets, panels and overhead work where an 18V tool feels bulky. Build quality is solid on both, and owners of each platform praise the batteries and trigger control; the real decision is compactness versus headroom.

• Choose the Milwaukee M12 kit if you work in tight spaces, overhead or on service calls and want the smallest, lightest two-tool setup on a battery platform that spans over 125 tools.
• Choose the Makita 18V LXT kit if you drill and drive all day in wood, metal or masonry and want more power, a 4-speed impact driver and a hammer-drill option in one platform.