Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless Power Tool Combo Kit Review and Performance Insights

Description

Positive Features of the Milwaukee 3692-22CT M18 Compact Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit

Testing the Milwaukee 3692-22CT M18 Compact Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit has been quite an experience. The combo kit includes a compact brushless 1/2″ drill/driver, a compact brushless 1/4″ hex impact driver, two M18 REDLITHIUM CP2.0 battery packs, a multi-voltage charger, and a sturdy contractor bag that keeps everything organized. One thing I truly appreciated was how the brushless motors deliver impressive power and efficiency, helping me zip through drilling and driving tasks without much fuss. The compact design makes these tools ideal for working in tight spaces or overhead, which often comes in handy during home improvement projects or job site tasks.

• Brushless motors provide more power and longer tool life.
• Compact size fits well in cramped or awkward spaces.
• Two long-lasting REDLITHIUM CP2.0 batteries ensure less downtime.
• Multi-voltage charger supports both M18 and M12 batteries.

Limitations of the Milwaukee Combo Kit

Despite the power and convenience, a few things caught my attention that could use improvement. For starters, the weight of the kit, roughly 9.4 pounds, feels a little hefty when carrying it around all day, especially if you’re used to lighter tools. The batteries are not included out of the box, so you’ll have to buy them separately if you don’t already own M18 batteries. This adds to the initial investment and might be a drawback for users expecting a ready-to-go package. Also, while the contractor bag is practical, it doesn’t have much padding, so I’d be cautious about tossing it in with other heavy gear.

• The kit is somewhat heavy for extended use.
• Batteries are not included, requiring an additional purchase.
• The contractor bag lacks padding for extra protection.
• No LED work light on the drill/driver might limit visibility in dark areas.

Compact Design and Performance

Using these tools, I found that their compact size doesn’t compromise performance. The drill driver hits a maximum rotational speed of about 3,600 RPM, which is more than enough for most applications like drilling into wood, metal, or driving screws. The impact driver’s torque output is solid, at around 550 inch-pounds, providing enough power to handle tougher fasteners without stripping them. The brushless motors run efficiently, reducing heat and extending runtime. Their ergonomic grips make them comfortable to handle for precision work or repetitive tasks, which I noticed during some furniture assembly and light framing.

Battery Life and Charging Convenience

The M18 REDLITHIUM CP2.0 battery packs impressed me with their balance of power and runtime. They recharge fairly quickly with the included multi-voltage charger, which is versatile enough to handle both M18 and M12 batteries—a nice touch if you have other Milwaukee tools. The batteries held up well during continuous use, minimizing interruptions. However, I did notice that the batteries can get warm during heavy-duty jobs, so it’s best to give them time to cool down between uses. Overall, the combo kit offers reliable power support for various projects without frequent battery swaps.

User Experience and Versatility

I handed the combo kit over to some coworkers and family members to test as well. My nephew, who is new to DIY, found the intuitive controls easy to navigate, especially appreciating the variable speed triggers and clutch settings on the drill driver. The impact driver’s quick bit changes and compact head allowed him to reach screws in tricky spots without frustration. On the other hand, a coworker who’s used to heavier, corded tools mentioned the weight and battery dependency as minor hurdles. Still, everyone agreed that the combo kit strikes a fine balance between portability and power, making it suitable for homeowners and professionals alike.

Product Alternatives

Looking around the market, the Milwaukee combo kit competes with brands like DeWalt’s 20V MAX and Makita’s LXT series. Compared to DeWalt’s combo kits, Milwaukee’s brushless motors felt a bit more efficient, particularly in battery management and heat dissipation. On the flip side, DeWalt often bundles batteries, which might offer better initial value for some buyers. Makita’s tools usually excel in lightweight design, making them easier for extended overhead use, but sometimes at the expense of raw torque. The Milwaukee kit shines in offering a compact yet powerful solution, especially if you already have an M18 battery ecosystem.

Price Performance

Considering the features and quality, the combo kit offers solid value for money. The price aligns with other premium brands, but the addition of two high-capacity batteries and a multi-voltage charger sweetens the deal. If you’re invested in Milwaukee’s M18 line, this set is a practical investment that maintains compatibility with other tools. For newcomers, the need to purchase batteries separately might feel like an added cost, but the durability and power output justify the expense over time. The contractor bag, while simple, helps keep everything portable and organized, enhancing the overall package’s cost-effectiveness.

Benefits of Brushless Technology

A key benefit I noticed is the brushless motor technology, which provides not only more power but also better efficiency and longer tool life. The absence of brushes reduces friction and heat, allowing the tools to run cooler and extend battery runtime. This results in less downtime and more consistent performance, especially during demanding tasks. The combo kit’s motors also contribute to quieter operation compared to older brushed models, which is a nice bonus if you’re working in noise-sensitive environments or late at night.

Testing the Milwaukee 3692-22CT M18 Compact Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit revealed a versatile and powerful set of tools that can tackle a wide range of tasks with ease. The compact design, brushless motors, and reliable batteries make it stand out, although some aspects like weight and battery inclusion might give potential buyers pause. Comparing it to other options in the market helped highlight where it excels and where it could improve, making this review a comprehensive look at what to expect from this combo kit.

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