Makita Drill vs Milwaukee Drill: Which Brand Delivers the Winning Drive?

Makita and Milwaukee stand as two of the most respected names in the power tool world, and their drills often spark heated debates among professionals and enthusiasts alike. Makita is known for precision engineering, smooth operation, and a balance between performance and battery efficiency.

Milwaukee, on the other hand, earns praise for raw power, advanced electronics, and rugged durability that thrives in tough jobsite conditions. Each brand builds drills with features tailored to different working styles, making the choice more about personal priorities than simple brand loyalty.

Torque output, speed settings, ergonomics, and battery technology all influence which drill fits best in a toolbox. Makita often appeals to users who value refined performance and extended runtime, while Milwaukee captures those who demand high torque and cutting-edge innovation.

This side-by-side comparison dives into strengths, weaknesses, and real-world performance to help match the right drill to the right kind of work.

Makita Drill vs Milwaukee Drill – Which One Fits Your Work Best?

Makita and Milwaukee have been leaders in the power tool industry for decades. Both brands are trusted by professionals, tradespeople, and DIY users. Their cordless drills are some of the most popular tools on the market. But they are designed with different priorities in mind.

Makita often focuses on smooth performance, efficiency, and battery technology. Milwaukee is known for rugged builds, long warranties, and practical designs. Choosing between the two comes down to power, runtime, weight, and intended use.

This guide compares two of their well-known cordless drill kits – the Makita and the Milwaukee Each kit includes a drill and an impact driver. We will break down their features, strengths, and weaknesses so you can make the right choice for your needs.

Makita Drill

About This Tool

The Makita belongs to the 18V LXT series, one of the largest cordless tool platforms in the world. This kit contains a 1/2-inch hammer driver-drill and a 1/4-inch impact driver, both with brushless motors for efficiency and longer tool life. Two 5.0Ah batteries, a rapid charger, and a durable tool bag are included.

This combo is built to handle drilling, fastening, and hammer drilling into materials like wood, metal, and masonry. The hammer drill mode is a key advantage for users who need versatility.

Features

• Brand: Makita

• Power Source: Battery powered

• Voltage: 18V

• Max Rotational Speed: 3,400 RPM

• Hammer Drill Torque: 530 inch-pounds

• Impact Driver Torque: 1,500 inch-pounds

• Battery Capacity: Two 5.0Ah lithium-ion batteries

• Special Feature: Variable speed settings

• Weight: 13.01 pounds (kit)

• Warranty: 3 years

What We Like

• High torque suitable for heavy fastening

• Brushless motors for better efficiency and less heat

• Large-capacity batteries for long runtime

• Hammer drill mode for concrete and brick work

• Wide compatibility with the LXT battery platform

• Fast charging reduces downtime

What We Didn’t Like

• Slightly heavier than some compact drill kits

• Price is higher compared to smaller capacity kits

My Opinion

The Makita is designed for demanding work. It delivers plenty of torque, long battery life, and the ability to work on different materials. It’s a strong choice for contractors, tradespeople, and anyone who works with power tools daily.

Milwaukee Drill

Product Details

The Milwaukee is part of the M18 cordless tool system. It comes with a 1/2-inch compact drill/driver and a 1/4-inch hex impact driver. Both tools are powered by Milwaukee’s lithium-ion battery technology.

The kit includes two compact 1.5Ah batteries, a charger, and a contractor bag. The compact drill is made for versatility, while the impact driver delivers quick fastening in a smaller package. Its compact size helps in tight work areas.

Features

• Brand: Milwaukee

• Power Source: Battery powered

• Voltage: 18V

• Max Rotational Speed: 1,800 RPM

• Drill Torque: 400 inch-pounds

• Battery Capacity: Two 1.5Ah lithium-ion batteries

• Special Features: Built-in LED lights, compact design

• Weight: About 1 pound (tools only)

• Warranty: 5 years

What We Like

• Very lightweight and easy to use overhead

• Compact design fits in small or awkward spaces

• Built-in LED lights improve visibility in dark areas

• Long 5-year warranty for peace of mind

• Comfortable grip for extended use

What We Didn’t Like

• Lower torque compared to the Makita

• Smaller battery capacity means more frequent charging

• Lacks a hammer drill function for masonry

My Opinion

The Milwaukee is well-suited for lighter projects, home repairs, and jobs where space is tight. It’s also a good choice for people who value a long warranty and a lighter tool in hand.

Detailed Comparison Of Makita VS Milwaukee

The Makita delivers more torque and higher speeds than the Milwaukee. It’s also equipped with a hammer drill function, making it capable of drilling into concrete and brick – something Milwaukee’s kit cannot do. Makita includes large 5.0Ah batteries, which provide much longer runtime compared to Milwaukee’s 1.5Ah batteries.

Milwaukee, on the other hand, offers a much lighter kit with a smaller footprint. This makes it more comfortable for overhead work and tasks in confined spaces. It also comes with a longer 5-year warranty, giving it an advantage in long-term coverage.

If your work involves construction sites, heavy fastening, and masonry drilling, Makita’s extra torque and runtime will pay off. If your work involves tight spaces, quick assembly jobs, or you need a lighter setup for daily use, Milwaukee will feel easier to handle.

FAQs

Q: Which drill is more powerful?
Makita has higher torque and speed, making it better for heavy-duty work.

Q: Which is better for small spaces?
Milwaukee is more compact and lightweight, making it easier to use in confined areas.

Q: Does Milwaukee have a hammer drill in this kit?
No, the Milwaukee comes with a standard drill/driver, not a hammer drill.

Q: Which has better battery life?
Makita’s 5.0Ah batteries last much longer between charges than Milwaukee’s 1.5Ah batteries.

Q: Which one is easier to handle for beginners?
Milwaukee’s lighter weight makes it easier for new users to handle.

Conclusion

The Makita and Milwaukee are both quality drill kits, but they serve different types of users. Makita delivers more torque, longer runtime, and extra versatility with its hammer drill function. It’s perfect for construction, remodeling, and demanding work.

Milwaukee focuses on compact design, lightweight handling, and extended warranty protection. It’s great for home improvement, furniture assembly, and smaller projects.

Your decision depends on the type of work you do most often. Heavy-duty tasks call for Makita. Lighter, precision-focused jobs are easier with Milwaukee.