
Milwaukee M18 2656-20
Score: 82/100
Ridgid 18V Brushless
Score: 92/100Rankings

The RIDGID R862301B is an ultra-compact 18V brushless impact driver featuring up to 2400 in.-lbs of torque and a specialized self-tapping mode. Its small footprint and high power output make it ideal for tight spaces and heavy fastening tasks. While it offers excellent value and warranty coverage, users should be aware of potential trigger precision issues and faster battery drain on high settings.

The Milwaukee 2656-20 is an 18V cordless hex impact driver featuring a brushless motor and REDLINK Intelligence for optimized performance. It delivers 1,500 in-lbs of torque with a maximum speed of 2,750 RPM, designed for fastening applications in tight spaces. It is best suited for professional contractors and tradespeople requiring a compact, powerful fastening tool for light to medium-duty tasks.
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
1,500 in-lb | 2,300 in-lbbest | |
18 Vbest | 18 Vbest | |
2,750 RPM | 2,900 RPMbest | |
3,450 IPM | 4,200 IPMbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.8 lbs | 2.74 lbsbest |
| ↓ lower better | 5.69 in | 3.39 inbest |
1 countbest | 1 countbest | |
5 yearsbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
Performance(3) | ||
Maximum Torque (in-lb) | 1500 in-lb | 2300 in-lb |
Maximum Speed (RPM) (RPM) | 2750 RPM | 2900 RPM |
Impacts Per Minute (IPM) (IPM) | 3450 IPM | 4200 IPM |
Support(1) | ||
Warranty Duration (years) | 5 years | Lifetime years |
Build & Design(3) | ||
Tool Weight (lbs) | 2.8 lbs | 2.74 lbs |
Tool Length (in) | 5.69 in | 3.39 in |
Tool Width (in) | 2.93 in | 6.34 in |
Power & Battery(1) | ||
Battery Chemistry | Lithium-Ion | Lithium-ion |
Features(1) | ||
Chuck Type | 1/4 inch hex quick-connect | 1/4 in. Hex Quick-Eject |
Controls(1) | ||
Trigger Type | Variable speed | Variable Speed |

Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).

Professional reviewers and manufacturers highlight the Milwaukee 2656-20's brushless 4-pole frameless motor as a key advantage, noting it provides longer life and more power than brushed alternatives. The optimized impact mechanism is praised for delivering maximum power and application speed, enhancing job efficiency.
The provided search results do not contain specific user reviews, ratings, or detailed feedback from everyday consumers.

“best bang for buck”

“faster and more powerful”




Professional reviewers praise the Ridgid R862312 as faster and more powerful than prior models, highlighting its 2400 in.-lbs torque and 3400 RPM speed.
Everyday consumers love the power for heavy fasteners, quick bit changes, and the reliability of the Ridgid battery ecosystem.