Difference between M12, M18, and M18 fuel???

The Grea

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Feb 12, 2025
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Good day, everyone! I’ve been into Milwaukee tools lately and been deciding between these 3 products. I’m a simple homeowner who wishes to do some DIY projects. I need some insights from you guys, thanks!
 
Between M12 and M18, M12 for me suits you best. The only difference between these two is their power. M18 offers 20-30% more power compared to M12 which isn’t really that much of a notice when doing some basic home DIYs.

M12 tools is much cheaper, light-weight, and they can do tight spots compared to M18. I would recommend M12 to you because it fits for basic DIY. Also, if you have any more budget, get brushless. It is way more better than brushed. 😊
 
If you’re talking about home DIYs, I think the M12 Fuel drill/driver is probably all you need! If you need to some yard tools, circular saws, and jigsaws, then go for M18 Fuel. Just go fuel bro, you won’t regret it!

Honestly, I purchased M18 because it came with batts and router, but to no avail M12 handles all my work easily… Just stick to M12 hahaha
 
Dude, as an M12 & M18 fuel owner, I would suggest you buy the M12 version. M12 is all you need man! Especially the M12 Fuel Hackzall, it is very convenient, easy to use and very handy yet powerful. No diss to M18, but when you need more power, you will eventually need the M18 version, especially the M18 Sawzall! Great items dude!
 
I owned both of the sets and I can tell you that M12 is better because I use it more often than M18. It’s true that M18 is more when it comes to power and using it all day long, M12 is as efficient and handier.
 
100% agree with M12 Fuel Hackzall and M18 Fuel Sawzall. Also, I know that they have a better version now, I think it is 2808 and it has a 1-1/4” stroke length.
 
M18 is basically for drilling bigger holes, if you need to drill pilot holes or driving screws all the time, its better to have M12. Been using M12 90% compared to M18.
 
M12 runs on 12 volts, M18 runs on 18 volts. Some tools offer both Fuel and non-Fuel versions for M12 & M18, they are all brushless. But take note of non-Fuel brushless tools that are exclusive for 18v tools.

This brushless technology is more advanced, offering more power, longer lifespan, and reduced battery drain technology. But for me, fuel models are way better, providing better quality and performance than any standard brushless tool. Also, non-fuel seems to be getting phased out by the company.

There are certain tools that is 12v and 18v versions. Be wary that they are different and they use different batteries.
 
You’ll never go wrong with M12 Fuel Drill/Driver! If you work on your yard all the time, you gotta go for M18 Fuel Quik-Lok System, you’ll thank me for this! 😁

Now, if you’re still not sure about needing a circular saw in the future, M18 brushed is just $100 for this type of job. If you have an extra buck, just go for Fuel instead of brushed. For just another 20 bucks, you’ll have a Fuel model which is the best type for me. 😁

Here are some ideas if you’re still confused:

  • Sawzall – M18 Fuel
  • Multi-tool – M12 Fuel
  • Jigsaw – M18 Fuel
  • Brushed Angle Grinder – cheap tool used for most jobs
  • Diablo blades – Anything with a blade
Just comment anything if you still have questions, buddy! Glad to help! 😊