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Milwaukee M18 Compact 1-inch Drill — Review & Specs | Pricepect | Pricepect

Home Cordless DrillsMilwaukee M18 Compact 1-inch Drill

Milwaukee M18 Compact 1-inch Drill — image 1

Milwaukee

Milwaukee M18 Compact 1-inch Drill

$111.93

3601-20Red Manufacturer Warranty

Cordless Drills Rechargeable Drills

Expert Review Analysis

The Milwaukee M18 Compact Brushless 1/2" Drill/Driver (model 3601-20) is a bare-tool cordless drill designed for professionals and DIYers who require a compact, high-torque tool for tight or overhead spaces. It features a 5.7-inch length, 550 in-lbs of torque, and a brushless motor with REDLINK Intelligence for durability and protection.

✓ Best for: Professional tradespeople or DIYers needing a compact, powerful drill for overhead work, tight spaces, electrical/plumbing installs, cabinetry, and overhead assembly where full-size drills are unwieldy.✗ Not ideal for: Users requiring a complete kit with batteries included, or those who need detailed battery runtime specifications before purchase.

Pros

✓Extremely compact 5.7-inch length provides superior balance and control in tight or overhead workspaces
✓High 550 in-lbs of torque allows for quick drilling and fastening in common applications
✓Brushless motor offers improved efficiency, longer runtime, and extended tool longevity

Best Seller Rank History

Now#4,069Best#32Worst#4,069 -4,012

Lower = better sales rank

Rating Trend

Rating4.5/ 5Reviews433+364 reviews

Specifications

Features

Chuck Size1/2 inch mm

Chuck MaterialMetal

Included AccessoriesBelt clip

Battery IncludedNo (Tool Only)

General

BrandMilwaukee

Length5.7 inches mm

Width2.2 inches mm

ManufacturerMilwaukee Electric

ModelM18COMPACT BRUSHLESS 1/2 INCH Drill/Driver

Performance

Max Torque550 in-lbs Nm

Max Speed1700 RPM RPM

Low Speed Range0-550 RPM RPM

Gear Case MaterialAll-metal

Intelligence SystemREDLINK™

Power

Voltage18V V

Motor TypeBrushless

Protection

REDLINK IntelligenceOverload protection and temperature monitoring

Construction

Gear Case MaterialAll-metal

Chuck

Chuck Type1/2 inch metal

Dimensions & Weight

Height7.95 inches

Width2.2 inches

Depth5.7 inches

Research Sources

milwaukeetool.com

milwaukeetool.com

northerntool.com

milwaukeetool.com

milwaukeetool.com

crawfordelectricsupply.com

clintonvillehardware.com

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User Reviews

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4.5

(256 reviews)

✓All-metal gear case and 1/2-inch metal chuck ensure high durability under heavy use

✓REDLINK Intelligence system provides overload and temperature protection for tool and battery safety

✓Lightweight 2.3 lbs tool-only weight reduces user fatigue during extended periods of use

Cons

✗Torque specifications vary inconsistently across similar models, causing potential confusion for buyers
✗Weight increases significantly when paired with a battery, reaching approximately 3.2 to 3.7 lbs
✗Limited detailed specifications regarding exact battery runtime or precise dimensional measurements
✗Bare-tool configuration requires separate purchase of M18 batteries and charger
✗Older or variant models may offer lower torque (500 in-lbs) compared to the 550 in-lbs of this model

From Expert Reviews

Praised by Experts

✓Compact 5.7-inch length is highlighted as ideal for excellent control in confined spaces
✓550 in-lbs torque and 1700 RPM provide sufficient power for quick professional applications
✓Brushless motor and all-metal construction are noted for durability and professional longevity

Expert Opinion

Search results lack direct expert reviews or editorials; however, manufacturer and retailer data emphasize the tool's compactness for tight spaces, high power output, and durability as standout traits for professional tradespeople.

What Users Say

No user reviews or feedback appear in the provided search results, so common themes, praise, or complaints from everyday consumers cannot be derived.

Common Complaints

Torque listed inconsistently across similar models (500 vs. 550 in-lbs), potentially indicating variant differences. Heavier with battery (e.g., ~3.2 lbs or 3.7 lbs in related models). Limited specs on battery runtime or exact dimensions in some listings

How It Compares

vs. Milwaukee M18 2801-22CT

Advantages

✓Shorter length (5.7" vs ~6.5")
✓Higher torque (550 in-lbs vs 500 in-lbs)

Disadvantages

✗2801-22CT is a kit that includes batteries, whereas 3601-20 is tool-only

Choose the 3601-20 for maximum compactness and torque, or the 2801-22CT if you need batteries included.

vs. Milwaukee M18 2701-20

Advantages

✓Shorter length (5.7" vs 6.875")
✓Lighter tool-only weight (2.3 lbs vs 3.7 lbs with battery)

Disadvantages

✗2701-20 is slightly longer and heavier, making it less ideal for tight overhead spaces

Choose the 3601-20 for a more compact and lighter experience compared to the older 2701-20 model.

vs. Milwaukee M18 2606-20

Advantages

✓Brushless motor offers better efficiency and runtime than the 4-pole brushed motor in 2606-20

Disadvantages

✗2606-20 is significantly longer (7.25") and lacks the advanced brushless technology

Choose the 3601-20 for modern brushless efficiency and compactness over the older brushed 2606-20.