Milwaukee M18 Fuel
Score: 88/100
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 M18 FUEL 1/4" Hex Impact Driver is a high-performance cordless tool featuring a POWERSTATE brushless motor and REDLINK PLUS intelligence, delivering up to 2,000 in-lbs of torque. It offers a compact design and four drive control modes, making it versatile for both precision fastening and heavy-duty applications. It is best suited for professional contractors and electricians requiring reliable daily jobsite fastening within the M18 ecosystem.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
2,000 in-lb | 2,300 in-lbbest | |
18 Vbest | 18 Vbest | |
3,900 RPMbest | 2,900 RPM | |
4,400 IPMbest | 4,200 IPM | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.2 lbsbest | 2.74 lbs |
| ↓ lower better | 4.47 in | 3.39 inbest |
3 countbest | 1 count | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 6.34 inbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(3) | ||
Maximum Torque (in-lb) | 2000 in-lb | 2300 in-lb |
Maximum Speed (RPM) (RPM) | 3900 RPM | 2900 RPM |
Impacts Per Minute (IPM) (IPM) | 4400 IPM | 4200 IPM |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Tool Weight (lbs) | 2.2 lbs | 2.74 lbs |
Tool Length (in) | 4.47 in | 3.39 in |
Features(2) | ||
LED Light Count (count) | 3 count | 1 count |
Chuck Type | 1/4-inch hex | 1/4 in. Hex Quick-Eject |
Controls(2) | ||
Speed Settings | 4-mode | 3 |
Trigger Type | Variable speed | Variable Speed |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional sources emphasize the tool's power and speed leadership within its class, describing the POWERSTATE motor as delivering unmatched power for a wide variety of applications. Experts highlight the brushless motor's durability and the compact design as significant advantages for jobsite accessibility, while praising the Drive Control feature for enabling seamless transitions from precision work to heavy-duty tasks.
Everyday users consistently praise the tool's compact size, lightweight construction, and reliable power delivery. The versatility of the drive control modes and the convenience of one-handed bit insertion are frequently highlighted as key benefits, with users noting reduced fatigue and improved performance in demanding fastening tasks.
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.
“best bang for buck”
“faster and more powerful”
