Milwaukee M12 Fuel Hammer Drill
Score: 92/100DeWalt DCD794
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. While it lacks the raw power of larger platforms, its durability and ecosystem compatibility make it a top choice for professionals.
The DeWalt DCD794 is a 20V MAX XR brushless cordless 1/2-inch drill/driver designed for high-performance drilling, driving, and hammering tasks. It features a brushless motor for efficiency and is compatible with the entire DeWalt 20V MAX battery ecosystem. It is best suited for professional contractors and serious DIYers needing compact, powerful drilling in construction or remodeling.
| Attribute | | DeWalt DCD794 |
|---|---|---|
12 V | 20 Vbest | |
400 in-lbsbest | — | |
1,700 RPMbest | 1,650 RPM | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.2 lbsbest | 2.54 lbs |
17best | 15 |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | DeWalt DCD794 |
|---|---|---|
Chuck & Bits(1) | ||
Chuck Size | 1/2 inch | 1/2 |
Performance(4) | ||
Max Torque (in-lbs) | 400 in-lbs | in-lbs |
Max Speed (RPM) (RPM) | 1700 RPM | 1650 RPM |
Clutch Settings | 17 | 15 |
Speed Settings | 2-Speed | 3-Speed |
Ergonomics & Design(2) | ||
Weight (lbs) | 2.2 lbs | 2.54 lbs |
Handle Type | Pistol Grip | Standard |
Power & Battery(1) | ||
Voltage (V) | 12 V | 20 V |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
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.
Professional reviewers and tool testers highlight the DeWalt 20V Atomic and similar compact lines for their incredible performance, noting they blast through holes with zero bogging and offer superior power over 12V versions.
Everyday users and Home Depot shoppers praise the strong power upgrade from 12V models and the ease of torque adjustment, noting effectiveness in tight spaces.
“INCREDIBLE performance, blasting through holes with zero issues, no bogging”
