Which is better for a homeowner with no cordless tools?

The drill driver. Drilling and driving screws covers more everyday jobs, and it costs $99.00 at Home Depot as of November 4, 2026. Add the multi-tool later for flush cuts and sanding.

Do they share batteries?

Yes. Both run on M18 18V REDLITHIUM packs, so one charger and battery set covers both tools. The multi-tool bundle includes two 5.0 Ah XC packs that also fit the drill.

Which lasts longer per charge?

The multi-tool bundle, because it ships with two 5.0 Ah XC batteries versus one 2.0 Ah CP battery in the drill kit. That is roughly 2.5 times the capacity per pack, and you carry a spare.

Is the multi-tool worth the extra $17.95?

Only if you need cutting, sanding or scraping. At $116.95 at Amazon as of November 4, 2026, it includes two larger batteries, which offsets much of the gap. If you need to drill, it is not a substitute.

Can the multi-tool replace a drill?

No. It has no chuck and no torque rating, so it cannot drill holes or drive fasteners. It complements a drill for flush cuts, grout removal and corner sanding.

Which is better for tight overhead work?

The drill. At 5.7 in long and 3.2 lbs with battery, it is built for overhead and tight spaces. The multi-tool is for awkward angles and flush cuts, not overhead drilling.

Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless Drill Driver Kit vs Milwaukee M18 Oscillating Multi-Tool with 2 Pack Red Lithium 5.0 Ah XC Batteries

These are different tools, not substitutes: the M18 drill driver bores holes and drives fasteners, while the M18 oscillating multi-tool cuts, sands, scrapes and grinds flush and in corners. Buy the drill if you need one core tool, and the multi-tool if you already own a drill and need flush cuts or detail work. As of November 4, 2026, the drill kit is $99.00 at Home Depot and the multi-tool bundle is $116.95 at Amazon. The multi-tool bundle carries two 5.0 Ah XC batteries versus one 2.0 Ah CP battery in the drill kit, so it is the better battery value per dollar.

Today the Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless Drill Driver Kit costs $17.95 less at its best price.

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