Which is better for drilling holes?

The M18 drill driver. It has a 1/2 in chuck, 550 in-lbs of torque and up to 1,700 RPM. The M12 ratchet has a 3/8 in square drive and is made for turning nuts and bolts.

Is the ratchet worth $99 without a battery?

Only if you already own M12 batteries and a charger. Otherwise add their cost, which makes it far more expensive than the $99 drill kit that includes both.

Which has the better motor?

The drill. It is brushless, which runs cooler and lasts longer. The M12 ratchet uses a brushed motor.

Can I use one battery on both?

No. The drill uses M18 batteries and the ratchet uses M12. Milwaukee sells a multi-voltage charger that handles both, and it comes in the drill kit.

Which is more compact?

The drill is 5.7 in long and 3.2 lbs with battery. The ratchet has a slim head for tight spots, but its listed width is 10 in.

The drill has an all-metal gear case and metal chuck plus a brushless motor. The ratchet's brushed motor wears over time, though both rate 4.4 out of 5.

Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless Drill Driver Kit vs Milwaukee M12 12V Lithium-Ion Cordless 3/8 in. Ratchet (Tool-Only)

These are different tools, not substitutes. The M18 drill driver is a complete kit with battery, charger and bag for $99 at Home Depot as of November 4, 2026. The M12 ratchet is tool-only at the same $99 at Home Depot, so you must already own M12 batteries and a charger. Buy the drill if you need drilling and fastening; buy the ratchet only if you already run M12 and work on nuts and bolts in tight spots.

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