DEWALT DW511
Score: 78/100
Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hammer Drill
Score: 88/100Rankings
The Milwaukee M12 FUEL 1/2" Hammer Drill is the most compact and lightweight hammer drill in its 12V class, featuring a POWERSTATE brushless motor and REDLINK PLUS intelligence. It delivers high torque and speed in a subcompact form factor, making it ideal for tight spaces and all-day use by tradespeople. Best suited for professionals such as electricians and plumbers who need a lightweight, compact drill for overhead, confined, or all-day use without fatigue.
The DeWalt DW511 is a reliable corded hammer drill featuring a powerful 7.8 Amp motor and ergonomic design for heavy-duty masonry and construction tasks. Its main drawback is the corded design, which limits mobility and requires access to power outlets. It is best suited for professional contractors and DIYers working in areas with easy access to electricity.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 12 Vbest | |
7.8 Abest | — | |
13 mmbest | 12.7 mm | |
— | 22,500 BPMbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.4 kg | 1 kgbest |
— | 400 in-lbsbest | |
3,000 RPMbest | 1,700 RPM | |
1 | 2best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Energy(1) | ||
Power Source | Corded | Cordless |
Chuck & Bits(2) | ||
Chuck Size (mm) | 13 mm | 12.7 mm |
Chuck Type | Keyed | Keyless |
Ergonomics & Design(2) | ||
Weight (kg) | 2.4 kg | 1.0 kg |
Handle Type | Side Handle | Pistol Grip |
Performance & Speed(2) | ||
No-Load Speed (RPM) | 3000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Speed Settings | 1 | 2 |
Features & Safety(1) | ||
Operating Modes | Drill/Hammer | 2 |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the DeWalt DW511 for its robust 7.8-8.5 Amp motor, which delivers high performance up to 3000 RPM, making it ideal for masonry and heavy-duty tasks. Editors note that while it is an older model lacking modern refinements like brushless motors, it remains a reliable choice for professionals who need consistent corded power without battery management concerns.
Everyday consumers frequently praise the drill's powerful performance in tough materials like concrete, noting its fast response and high RPM. Users appreciate the comfort provided by the side handle and trigger, as well as the value for heavy tasks. Common complaints focus on the limitations of the cord restricting mobility, the weight of certain variants feeling heavy overhead, and the outdated keyed chuck design.
Professional reviewers and editors praise the Milwaukee M12 FUEL Hammer Drill as the most capable 12V hammer drill on the market, highlighting its class-leading compactness, power, and balance.
Everyday users commonly praise the tool's portability, low fatigue, and surprising power for its size, particularly noting its effectiveness in wood, metal, and masonry. Recurring themes include appreciation for the LED light and variable trigger, but complaints focus on the need for precise clutch adjustment to avoid over-speeding in delicate tasks.
