Great comparison, thanks! I got the newer Bosch brushless 6 months ago here in Europe. Super light and perfect for narrower spaces with lots of power. For me the Milwaukee hand guard would be in the way sometimes.
If you talk to a cabinet installer, most that use a Festool prefer that tool, because installing cabinets isn’t about power, it’s about control of your tool, and seating cabinet screws perfectly as smooth as possible. I’m not gonna lie, I bought the Milwaukee because for a DYI’r it has wayyyyy more options to use any bits you want. Plus it has that sweet offset attachment. Plus Festool is priced at $300-$400 plus you have to buy Festool specific bits for that tool. The Festool battery only fits that tool. No flexibility whatsoever. So I may not be a cabinet installer, but I am a M12 and M18 Milwaukee user. The Milwaukee is a sound choice overall. Great review.
I'm based in Scotland so looking at this from a European stand point but i feel like some of the most important factors when purchasing a 12v driver were missed in this test. The most important in my opinion being the fine adjustment in torque/clutch setting for driving delicate screws and fixing during installations. Personally i own a makita 12v drill driver because of its ultra short body (doesn't have multi heads so not applicable) and the Mafell A10 m multi head driver. Mostly i use mine for kitchen and cabinetry installs, they very rarely drill holes (other than screw holes for handles or small pilot holes ) as i normally have an 18v combi drill to hand that is used for drilling into masonry for fixings. Lends its self well to poping holes in cabinets for pipes etc Normally i think your tests are on the money but i feel like you've missed so key factors in this one...
I am sure this has already been mentioned in the comments below but, I feel a nod should be given to Festool for coming up with this type of tool to begin with. And the CXS has probably been out 10+ years. I have the CXS,vMilwaukee, and Bosch versions of these types of drills and I tend to always reach for the CXS. If I need anymore power I actually jump to my 18V stuff. There is just something about the build quality/fit & finish about it that makes me really enjoy using it. Thanks for the reviews as always, Toolbox Team!
One thing that is forgotten about is platform investment. Milwaukee has hands down the most 12v tools. Second I would say Bosch. I have been using Bosch for a long time and they work flawlessly. If your doing woodwork for drilling I would go with FLEX 24v. I do HVAC work so I’m all about the 12V Bosch and Milwaukee.
Just bought the Milwaukee with 2 2AH batteries. Mailbox installation is the challenging application & home, because of working on the mounting space. I didn’t know of the other brands, & that was all they had @ Home Depot. I like it!
Hi there I'm an alarm engineer and I have been using the milwaukee m12 for 6 months now as my 1st and 2nd fix drill driver and it's always on my tool belt I love it apart from the direction button
Thank you for the great comparision. It helped me a lot on what to look for. I wanted to point out that the Bosch you compared is the old model. The newer version has a bushless moto making it smaller ang giving it a whopping 310 inc pound torgue. it would be interesting to see how it stands up to the others (especially with the 6AH battery giving it a better stand capeability)
I'm on the fence with the Milwaukee. I was looking for a new daily driver so I bought it a few days ago and returned it the next day. It was well built and attachments were handy but there were three things that really bothered me. 1) The size of the grip. This is a problem with all M12 tools as the grip has to be larger than it should be to accommodate the battery. This tool is meant to be held from the back like a drywall gun so I probably could have gotten over it. 2) The reverse switch is in the wrong place. Yeah once you get on board with holding it like a drywall gun then the button isn't so bad. 3) Not more compact that the tools I was trying to replace. Once you add an attachment out front and have your hand behind the tool the whole setup is longer than my full size Milwaukee Gen 3 drill. The "hand guard" only makes the situation worse and really does tend to get in the way in tight spaces. I did like the magnetic bit holder feature though! Minor gripes: Tool should run more quietly. High speed is a tad too fast for the amount of torque (bogs down). It should retain hex bits/drills without any attachment (not just with a magnet). LED light is just OK. Lowest setting on the clutch is still too much power for small fasteners. At the moment I'm trying out the 12V DeWalt Xtreme screwdriver as my daily driver. This thing is tiny, quiet, and powerful. Most of my drills have hex shanks so I don't miss the chuck. If I am in a really tight space I can just use my right angle drill. If I need a ton of power I can just use my Milwaukee Gen 3 drill. If I am framing with screws I will use my M18 surge.
You messed up by taking it back. I have ran all those tools and milwaukee hands ✋ down is way above the competition in durability trust me. Milwaukee is all I run now and they never disappoint.
The advent of brushless power and compactness have transformed this class. Ignore any brushed versions. The new Bosch is brushless, with 130% more torque than old model. This is a very useful comparison, if a bit subjective in places. Thank you for your efforts.
@@Tensquaremetreworkshop soft torque is 15 vs 20 Nm and hard torque is 30 vs 35 nm. The naming is confusing. They should name it by using the same parameter.
I've owned that Metabo for about a year now, hands down the best drill I've ever owned. Power of an 18v, weight of a 10.8v. It's so ergonomic, and I kid you not, one of those 4ah batteries sometimes last me over a week (I install office furniture for a living). You make a good point about the attachments being difficult to put on - the trick is to press the forward trigger whilst slotting them on and then they'll slot on like butter (this need not apply to the chuck attachment though). Don't know about your difficulties pulling them off, however - I've had no problems myself. The only other cons I can think of for this drill is that the battery slot is unconventional (release button at the back of the drill body) which means that once every blue moon to you'll put the drill down funny or unintentionally put pressure on the button and thus accidentally realise your battery. In a perfect world every drill's battery slots would be like Panasonic's but you can't win 'em all. The other slight niggle is that the 1/4" collet attachment is a bit on the wobbly side. Rarely really are 1/4" collets as sturdy straight as chucks but Metabo's attachment could've been more solid, considering its price. I'd love to give that Hilti a go, but regardless I don't see myself moving from the Metabo front, not in the world of 12volts anyway.
Brilliant review, thanks so much. As an amateur DIY wood worker who also makes the occasional cabinet etc, high power and carry cases are not important. What most attracts me is the ability to work in tight spaces, compact, light weight and reasonable cost, so it’s a draw between Bosch and Milwaukee. As the Bosch is more compact, I’ll go with that. It’s just a pity it’s not brushless and brushes are not replaceable. Thanks again.
Bosch has just released in North America the brushless version of the 12 volt flexiclick (higher torque, belt clip) and finally the 18 volt version with optional sds attachment!
Do you happen to have a hyper link for the Bosch 18V Flexi-click? I love the features all of these drills provide but could use a little more power in certain situations.
Matt Ro It’s available in Canada. Just came out. www.mississaugahardware.com/product/gsr18v-535fcb15-18v-ec-brushless-connected-ready-flexiclick-5-in-1-drilldriver-system-with-1-cor
The thing that you didn't mention about the festool proprietary central shaft thing is that the extra length and design makes the bit have FAR less wobble than a standard hex bit. This is great for really small screws, or in a situation where you don't want to slip out of a screw head and damage something.
That's why you get Metabo or Hilti and put a cenrotec chuck on it. Btw of all the brands Hilti has the cheapest chucks sold separately. I have to double check on that cause it was half a year ago. I have like 3 jacobs chucks, original bit holder, Mafell bit holder and centrotec. Drill bits that i use the most just stay in the chuck and i just click on/off quickly.
@@Tensquaremetreworkshop that annoys me to no end. That's why I got the Bosch. The 12V-35FC has 310 in-lbs torque and comes in an L-Boxx. The LED lighting is still sub par.
Will definitely be checking this video out later today, but just a heads up, bosch finally released the brushless flexiclick set in the USA, GSR12V-300FCB22.
@@ConcordCarpenter You tested the old version; the yellow led gave it away. The new one has a bright white led. Different model number too. I do hope you get a hold of one of those to put through the paces. The new brushless model kicks ass. Keep it up! I'd love to see the toolbox buzz crew do a head to head of the cordless 5" random orbit sanders on the market.
@@ConcordCarpenter The brushless version literally just came out in the states, so it's no surprise they sent you the old one. Like I said, I hope you get a hold of that one. I think you'll like it. :-)
While I am heavily invested in the M12 platform. For ergonomics, I prefer Hilti all day long. when you have to fit 3 18650s into a handle, it makes the tool very cumbersome for short stubby and fat hands like mine.
I want to love the Milwaukee, because I have various M12 tools, but did they design this "installation driver" for a 3 handed person? How are you supposed to hold something in one hand and drill with the other if you need to switch between F/R, which if you've installed anything, is quite a common need?? Lol
Reading your post made me remember what my buddy said about his CXS. He has had it over a decade and loves it! When I’ve worked with him I remember him raving about how well it works. He does kitchens and baths and one remembers how another broadcasts his glee when using the right tool! Festool was the start of these new amazing tools.
Nice comparison. I have the Bosch. I've accidentally dropped the attachments so often that I've decided to replace it. It honestly might happen three times during an evening in the garage (I'm not a professional). Adjusting the chuck torque limit I honesly WAY to often accidentally release the chuck from the tool. This review helped me choose what to exchange it with.
I have 4 Bosch 12v tools. They have been good and I like using them. But if I we’re starting from zero today, I would probably buy Milwaukee. They just seem to be more broadly innovative with developing new tools within the 12v platform. For me, cross tool battery compatibility is a huge factor.
I have the Festool and love the centrotec fitting, the level of play in the bit holder is virtually nil. Also, isnt it 10.8v I don't think this was mentioned in the review unless I missed it. Another great informative review guys, keep them coming and stay safe.
Yeah, there isn't a better bit holder that I've ever used that's as good as the Wiha Centrofix. The Fastcap taper lock comes close.
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The 10,8 V and 12v nonsense should everyone already know!!! It's MARKETING!!!! 18650er cells have the min. voltage of 3,6 V (x3 = 10,8V ) But a maximum end voltage after charging of 4V ( x3 = 12V ) Newer cells have even more endvoltage... 4,2 V ( ---> 12,6V package voltage ).
When you check power try and make sure many of these drills aren’t using the tiny batteries because the amp hours do make a difference.... not be partial to Milwaukee because I own them but even when I told a friend to buy the higher amp hour batteries for his makita tools he said they not only last longer but make more power.
I tried the Milwaukee, but wound up taking it back. Reasons: The placement high in the grip of the 18650’s just make it uncomfortable for longer use. Second switch placement on top, made it a pain to access except with two hands and taking it within view to ensure positive finger placement.
Hello TBB Team, I as a German know that the Festool CXS was not built for this test, if you have dealt with Festool a little more, the Festool does not know (except DRC and PDC) for construction workers but for finish carpenters. It does not matter that the drill driver is powerful and has a high speed, but is mainly used when installing fittings. And here you don't need high speeds, but a sensitive drill driver with a very low speed and good control. Anyone who has ever used a Festool drill driver knows that there is no more sensitive drill driver on the market than this one. What was also neglected in this test is the topic of service, because alongside Hilti Festool there is also a good deal, three years of service plus 10 years of spare parts guarantee !! You won't find that anywhere else. In a nutshell, Festool is a device in itself, which has no place in this test. All four other candidates are built for the rough, Festool is for the fine when accuracy is important. Because the other cordless screwdrivers are rather useless.
All of these are cabinet drills. None of them are powerful or meant for rough construction. They're all meant for finish carpentry. Festool is meant for finish carpentry in general, but these other brands make tools for all sorts of trades, not just construction.
@@histguy101 I’ve used all of these but the Metabo (although have owned other Metabo drills). The Festool has waaaaaay more control. Any Festool drill has way more control than any other drill. I prefer the T18 over the CXS because neither are torque monsters (gave the CXS away years ago). Meanwhile, I did some framing last week with nothing but 12v Hilti drills. From what I understand the Metabo 12v is significantly more powerful.
The Metabo looks a great bit of kit but it only comes with the keyless chuck attachment. Buying all the other heads pushes the price up quite a bit. I like the Milwaukee but I prefer using a small drill holster to using a belt clip and I doubt it'll fit with the front handle.
DeWalt got it wrong. I have a lot of their tools, but not the 12v- tacking the battery on the bottom is just stupid. Fitting it into the handle changes the whole balance (for the better) and is a major point of 12v tools. With brushless, they are as powerful as 18v brushed. And last as long.
Super helpful video, thank you. I was on a job site with someone that had the Hiliti, and was immediately sold on it's power. We put an 1" hole in framing lumber in a place where only it would fit. I wonder how Bosch's updated driver changes it's standing. It's now smaller and just as powerful as the Milwaukee for the same cost, though the reviews I've read still mention accidental accessory release.
Late to the party here, but the CXS includes an adapter for the Centrotec chuck that holds 1/4" bits. Additionally, the nose of the tool also accepts 1/4" bits, so if you go completely chuckless you can put any 1/4" hex shank bit into it; it will be magnetically retained (and if it's short, be a bear to pull out). Its trigger control is second to none that I've ever tried, and it's not built for drilling 3/4" holes through construction lumber - it's meant for drilling small holes and installing tiny to medium sized screws, and it excels in those tasks.
I have a Milwaukie which I use for everything. Don’t need another drill at all. This tool covers all I need. Attachments are nice to have in case, but as a go to drill and screw machine it’s as good or better than any other.
I can't see how Milwaukee won the ergonomics. The forward and reverse button location and type of button is a deal breaker. It will be the Metabo or the Festool. Hard to beat the German designs.
@@justinsgr8 some metabo are actually made in Germany. Well the good metabo tools are. The ones you get in Menards and alot of big box stores are the cheap china made crap
@@kentuckybeardsman I gotcha, I wanted the 12v multi drill but look into where it was made and it was china. Not that I care but I'm just speaking in the made in germany thing. I have hilti, milwaukee, making, dewalt and snap on drills and impacts along with sawzalls and everything else. I just like tools , I don't much care where it's made as long as it works. I tool that works is a good one to me. Im into getting the job done.
Good video For me Mafell A18 MBL hands down Mafell is the daddy of woodworking tools I have had so many festool tools over the past 15 years and was a big fan until I tried mafell plunge saw It makes ta 55 look silly
No, it sucks. Why get used to the bad? You will have trouble finding the current direction. You can't feel it so you will only have to look at these white triangles, and it is impossible to see which one is glowing in direct sunlight.
I sure wish “they” had some of these tools before I retired . Don’t laugh... I remember when the Yankee push screwdriver was the first cordless drill driver! Thanks for another great informative review!!!
Very cool test! Much appreciated. As a German, I was always wondering that there are so less multi head drills out there, maybe a festool patent thing which recently ran out, i dont know. For now I love the metabo, the bosch brushless and i like the Milwaukee. The latter downside here is unfortunately an upside in your comparison in the US : price. In Germany I would pay, as of today for the whole Pack with 2 Batteries way more than 300 €... An actual (not thorough) comparison Shows me the Milwaukee for 50€ more than the festool dont even talking about the Rest... Never the less, the price thing is always divided by a big ocean, what the Rest is concerned, love your test, love your approach couldnt want more. Keep up guys and thanks
Hey brother. Thank you for the great review. Buying the Milwaukee today. Your review sold me. Absolutely the best reviews on TH-cam period. Haha man would it be great if you where my neighbor. Wait no. Scratch that. I would be broke from buying to many tools.
Does the drilling jig have a leveling adjustment? If so, was it used to level the drilling angle of the bits? The reason I ask is because @17:58 minutes in the shot of the Milwaukee drilling with the spade bit, the bit appears to be pointing at a downward angle. This would lengthen the time it took to drill through the wood since the sled is linear and the bit is not, thus causing drag. If you were to manually drill a hole with the drill held at that angle, the bit would follow that angle and the hole would not be 90° through the wood. Otherwise it was a very informative video, and I still gave it a thumbs up vote.
I was so impressed with the in-depth information that I decided to subscribe. Very informative & a great variety of users. Nothing says it better than experience!
One thing I would consider is the overall 12v platform offered, how many other tools do they offer to run off the same batteries? That is a big factor for someone who is in the trades and might be using these tools.
I’m surprised you didn’t mention or seem to factor in the forward/reverse placement on the Milwaukee. I’m all for Milwaukee, but that is tripping me up. Thanks for another head to head though. Nice work. 👍🏻
There are 3 or 4 diferent models of 10,8V so caled 12max multihead milfucky chinesium brand, and only one is this front heavy crap weird switch presented here ( Milwaukee is 100% chinese brand, fuly owned by TTI HK along Ryobi China, AEG/Ridgid power tools, all hobby, and some other ex US brands. Only milwaukee is rated pro but last only 2 year of pro use, and sometimes even only 3 months from new before needing service). One is not brushless ( brushless are crap, 8X more noisy from the fan - larger diameter motor with higher RPM, wey more expensive elctronic driver, expensive motor, and even more expensive gears), nice angled grip, but the same stupid bulky reversed pack compared to Bosch. And there are 2 or 3 more brushless, one new stupid big and heavy, and one or two Okish but with ssme stupid bulky grip. Metabo had an older model bs quick pro, rebranded also as Mafell A10M, with same stupid reverse pack grip, 2 cells in the back and one in front, very bad... Bosch is OK, but FC angled head is stupid bulky. On FC2 for 14,4/18V there is an optional slim angled head, and also the FC2 bulky model, but for GSR 12V-15 FC and 12V-35 FC there is only the bulky one with blocking function for the excentric head. Hilti is more expensive in EU, is 200 E without the 2 x 4Ah paks and without charger...And is bigger. And is rated for 14mm drilling in wood, and bosch is rated for 25mm and can do even 35, and 12V-15 is heavy duty. Also Hilti SFE is noisy brushless noisy with expensive parts, and also has a metal outhercase chuck, front heavy and destructive for furniture on contact... GSR 12V-35 brushless is rated also heavy duty but is new, no long term feedback. Has higher RPM and a bit more torque so I think it needs a bigger pack with 2 rows, 4Ah or 6 Ah, 3 inside and 3 down, I don't trust the kit with 3Ah compact for this model, but for 12V-15 is good, and 2Ah also very good. Festool CXS is a waste, can't get flush in fiberboard 4x30mm even in speed1, and is slow and we need speed 2. Old Festool T12 @ 2,6 Ah compact was worlds better, altrough not for 35mm drilling...
@@loochan325 your point is? Some Milwaukee may not be great Especially the chapter stuff but it's much the same on other brands. I've had my brushless hammer drills 5 and 6 years still going strong. Most of my Milwaukee stuff has handled well.
@@abolit what are you talking about? Bosch tools are generally super reliable. You can always get a lemon but for real I've seen way more people wasting a Milwaukee or DeWalt cordless tool than a Bosch or Makita
Looked up the Hilti SFE 2-A12 on a Hong Kong suppliers site. For the tool, 2 small batteries and a cheap charger was going to be 2900 HKD. That is about $377. That is almost double the Milwaukee and Bosch prices.
Oswaldo Agurto I agree. The Bosch is $120-150 with the kit. Milwaukee is 229 kit, 179 bare tool. What rank it higher for me is the locking offset tool, the Milwaukee is only a magnet.
12V-15FC is no 1, and the reasons for that are: 1. 12V-35FC is wey noisyer like most brushless. 2. 12V-35FC has wey more expensive parts like all brushless, electronic driver and motor, also gearbox, etc., so repairing is absurd. 3. 12V-15 @ 15 Nm soft torqe or true torque vs 12V-35 @ 20Nm true torque is practicaly very close, more so considering the fact that I can use autoblocking to easy manual thitening. 4. 12V-15 is less expensive, and more so considering body parts. 5. Festool 8 Nm true torque in speed 1, is a bad joke, more so when is no more fully charged. 16Nm hard torque is from 2010 universal iso only from kinetic energy ar full speed 2 when stop in shock, and in speed 2 true torque is more close to 5 Nm... 6.milfucky is a fully oun 100% chinese HK brand, zero pride for an american and even less so for a european. 7. That particular milfucky has the worst ergonomy, front heavy and with that absurdly stupid top button placement. More so, that particular model has a vertical grip, and not the angled one that other milfucky show, and that mised angled grip is the only nice ting about milfucky ergonomic wise. In Europe therd are 4 difetent milfucky models, one is this crap, and all other show fine angled grip and reasonable reverse switch crosbolt type, two are noisy brushless, and one with brushes but still overpriced. 8. That Metabo is wey to big, enough said... 9. Older more compact Metabo, cloned also for Mafell, is compact, powerful, but slower and with horible ergonomics with that stupid reversed pack, very very bad, and also less reliable compared to Bosch that is heavy duty for its class. 10. Hilti is bigger and less powerfull, otherwise there is a new 4Ah pack with 21700 cells that is nice. This model SFE is new to me, never seen in Europe by me, but still less torque and bigger. In Europe I seen new gen 2 model that are brushless, more powerful but wey noisyer and also mote expensive parts, so no interest to me. Bosch is not perfect, for example under the trigger is no separation for next finger, is a little bulky but still compact, FC is longer then non GC or 12V-35FC and non FC, acu osck is hard to pray from the tool, the case has big toletances and so the gearbox si a little woubly, but all this are manageble small things compared to wey bigger fault found on others. Anywey, about the test here, there are other things to be sed or corect, more then just the unapropiate judgement about milfucky ergonomics... For instance, even if Festool has not enought torque even in speed 1, there are two big things that are not bad like they are described, first there is a mundane Festool magnetic adaptor for normal bits, usualy in the same kit or easely available, and second, there is reason whay festool -hwo is the inventor of the excentrichuck, does not need that on cxs/txs, because the particular angled adaptor for this particular tool is very thin and can get very close alone.
Loo Chan I work as an auto technician and vested in many Milwaukee M12 and Dewalt's 20v products. I am mainly a Dewalt guy. Having the m12 batteries, I almost, almost, bought the Milwaukee 5-1. Glad I didn’t. It does have a high grip, like a drywall gun. I didn’t mind it, but the switch button on top was a no-go. Being stuck at home now, I wanted a 5-1 for home projects. I purchase 12V FC-15. I like the balance, wide trigger, grip angle, good power. So impressed with the German driver, I bought the PS-41 impact too. And I like it better than my gen 2, 2553 impact. I seem to have better trigger controller on brushed tools. Bosch batteries are more repairable, unlike Makita batteries also.
I have a non-multi head Hilti drivers and would caution that since the lights are on the battery they may be obscured if you have big hands or are wearing gloves. Also their drivers are surprisingly heavy. I have had cordless Makita drills but the Hilti drivers weigh 30% more. If you are Hilti curious check the website. I got my reconditioned Hilti drivers for $49 apiece. They have many good deals there.
I was more concerned that the video clearly shows a 5 degree angle of impact but its being pressed in straight not following the angle of the bit which exacerbates the normal trough out of the chuck
Important issue of Milwaukee - 17:34 what on earth had happened to the center mount of the drill in the chuck ? How can you precisely drill if there is at least 3mm offset from center with the drill chuck ???
But on the last Amazon Day and HD and Lowe’s similar days I bought a ton of Milwaukee stuff. And two packs of their HO batt/charge kits. They’re awesome in that their power is unrivaled to what I’ve used. But they’re friggin heavy lol. I’ve noticed they don’t spin true at all drilling or whatever and I’m watching this vid at 20:20ish seeing the same wobble. Definitely don’t have my Makita’s precision or construction. Any thoughts?
There are many disadvantages to the Festool CXS. They don't make an offset chuck for it and the battery can't be used on any other Festool tool. Also, the centrotec system is limiting and very an added accessory expense. That being said I still love mine and plan on keeping it as long as possible. I've used the Milwaukee, which is super capable and extremely powerful. It doesn't feel as refined to me as the Festool drill but I would still recommend it. You could pretty much use the Milwaukee for everything and not have to carry multiple drills. You can drive lag screws with it, which is a real struggle for the Festool. Love the review. Would have liked to see the Dewalt in the lineup. It doesn't look like theirs is very popular though.
I had a Festool , very underwhelming in torque/power . I like the Flexclic , but only around the house , the chuck seems to like to come detached ! I currently carry the Milwaukee in the field ! I made a holster for mine that carries the drill , chuck , 90 degree adaptor . That said , I still have two dedicated angle drills .
The Festool CXS is the weakest of all professional 12v drills available, low rpm and torque. The design is quite old, its technically outdated. But it has the best handling and control, and power doesn‘t matter in fine carpentry.
The Bosch attachments come undone when changing the torque setting. People often accidently move the attachment retaining ring as well, unlocking it. Check the indicator after changing the torque setting.
Great detailed review as usual. Best is subjective. I own the Milwaukee and love it. However, the forward/reverse location is insane to me. They have literally hundreds of tool with the easy to use, tried and true slider. For me the Metabo is simply too friggin big for tight spaces. Looks like a full size 18v tool compared to the others. Some may need power over compactness though. I was going to get the Bosch just when the Milwaukee was introduced. Battery platform made my decision for me. I'm honestly a bit disappointed, since I'm also eying the 12v router and planer from Bosch. Now I'll have to wait on the boys from Wisconsin to bring out these two.
@@girthbrooks39 Yeah, designed and engineered in USA, built in China, owned by China. Can't argue that. The boys from China do a pretty good job on the tools that carry the Milwaukee label. But don't blame China. Blame corporate America. They sold all of our souls and didn't lose a minute of sleep over it.
Warranties, repair and service cost is also an important factor when you count value in long term of ownership. How does the others compare with HILTIs 20 years warranty for manufacturing faults, 2 year free repair, and after 2 year they have a maximum repair cost of 40% of what a new one cost for the rest of the tools life span. So no worries what it will cost to repair it in the future. That's why I lean on getting the Hilti, because I think it will be the best economical choise in the long run for. Also I like a company that makes sustainable pruducts that last and want to repair and not throw a away and just give out a new one. Also, if you get the 22v and/or 36v machines too, you can charge all betteries in the same charger, 12v, 22v, and 36v. I think Metabo also have one charger for their 12-36v system
As an everyday pro kitchen fitter. My Festool CXS is used many hours every day, out of a 12 hours day. It’s not the fastest, not the most powerful. But every time I try one the new 12 volts from the other brands. They just don’t quite make me satisfied, and I have tried and borrowed them all, from different colleges. The new Milwaukee as you ranked no1, just feels cheap and toy-ish in my hands when compared to my CXS. It has spindle runout, cannot stand up without falling on its nose with attachment on. The direction knob is a pain in the a.. to use. Grip is to thick. Angle chuck is bulky, bit magnet too weak, noisy. Price wise is the least thing I look at, when I shall use a machine so many hours everyday. Well we all do have different opinions. Btw. I do love my Milwaukee 18v table saw and my Surge and the new powerful M18 impact driver. But as an old Harley Davidson, or was it Buell Motorcycles commercial once stated. “You can’t run a spec sheet” Thanks Rob for another great review. But I’ll keep my CXS until it gets mahogany 😄
@A Concord Carpenter / ToolBoxBuzz A few things I had hoped would be part of your test: 1. *Chuck Wobble* or Runout (with bare driver hex chuck and standard drill chuck at least). 2. *Head Length* for compactness. Measured from the back of the motor housing to front tip of the hex bit holder, and to the tip of straight drill chuck jaws. 3. Wish you would have tested the *Bosch BRUSHLESS* version. It has a more compact Head Length AND Higher Torque. I also feel that the pistol grip design with the battery inside the grip only (not a rectangular base- or foot-type battery) is much more of an advantage for tight spaces, and for light weight when using overhead or contorted in tight spaces. With the Bosch, you have the OPTION of buying or using your existing 4.0ah & 6.0ah (or larger) rectangular base batteries. As a professional installer, who cares if you have to keep an extra battery or two on-hand? The pistol grip batteries keep the device compact and lightweight WHILE IN USE, i.e. the primary goal and feature of this type of drill/driver!
Couldn't agree more. Iam so tempted to buy the Milwaukee and I really want to like it but it's just that switch. Why on earth did they do that. The amount of times I'm switching between forward and reverse quickly having to do this with my other hand would really frustrate me. Especially if I was holding something in the other hand
@@andrewhay8033 Both the FWD/REV switch placement AND the grip/guard placement make it difficult to use one-handed while in tight spaces. The grip pushes your hand further back so your hand becomes pinched between obstacles in tight areas. A definite No-Go for its intended purpose as an "installation tool". Don't know what Milwaukee was thinking other than trying be popular/more attractive by copying or looking like the Festool.
yeah, I have the Festool and I should have bought the Milwaukee. The need for the extended but is the same problem I run into with my Bosch impacts. Aside from that, it is a phenomenal tool and it oozes quality.
i love the milwaukee 2505. i have two 6amp-XC and two 3amp-CP batteries. the recess switches are my new favorite because laying down your tool hard, slightly drop or straight up droping your tool doesn't flip the switched. the tool fits well into my cargo packets. and the grip is oddly unreal. when you go back to other tool, it takes time to shake off having now being off set from being directly the screw.
I'm a healthy guy, and even though I don't have any 12 volt batteries or Chargers I will seriously be considering this thing. It seems perfect for around the house or for jobs that I know ahead of time will be cramped
@@ConcordCarpenter thank you very much. I was concerned since in my country it's a very rare machine generally. So I needed someone with better knowledge who also knows how genuine it is.
I put my tools down regardless if they can stand up but, you can see the tool stand up in the video at 3:21. Button location I can surely agree on. Festool requiring specific bits and basically a lone tool (the batteries only go with this tool), makes this a hard sale for me.
Thanks. I invested in Milwaukee and was on the fence about this tool because of the location of the forward/reverse button. I will buy the tool now because of this video.
At some point it'll worth, if not factoring in at least mentioning depth of line. If I get the Bosch tool how deep and good is the rest of their 12v line VS the Milwaukee M12 line.
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I have the Bosch 12v 35 FC with a brushless motor... Which is more powerful than the one they testet Here but so far as I know the new Milwaukee line have a hack of new 12v tools and useful things... They just presented the new tools in Monaco.
I bet Milwaukee wins. Lol. Jk rob. Thanks for your time and effort in this one I paid $100 for the Bosch on sale at Lowe’s a while back. I’m pleased with it
I am confused. Why is the feature on Bosch where you can combine the attachments and do angled + offset or + drillhead not mentioned at all ?!! Also test of what tight spaces they work in with attachments would be relevant.
@@ConcordCarpenter ok, I didn't know they all did. I saw another test, maybe other models where Bosch was mentioned as the only one that did. And thank for Great tests btw. Watching from Denmark, see many of your video's
Great thorough review . Your reviews help me make informed decisions in selecting tools . The Milwaukee / Festool style with the hand guard looks really cool and can stand solidly on it's own but I think it gets in the way of certain projects. I have Milwaukee tools and they're high end and always land on the upper end of most reviewers but the electronic switch on top of the Milwaukee drill is a deal-breaker.I It's not easy access and counter intuitive. It's also recessed and not easy to change directions with just your thumb. Take's two hands and you have to stop to change it. Very poor design and the only one like it. I hope Milwaukee changes that. Just my two cents.
If you are still in the market for one of these Check out the newer 12V Bosch, GSR12V-300FCB22. Acme tools has it for $129, and I think it is the best of the bunch: more torque and faster top speed but still small and light. I ordered mine yesterday with another deal they had, and I got it for $122 with tax and shipping. We are living in the golden age of cordless tools.
Great comparison, thanks! I got the newer Bosch brushless 6 months ago here in Europe. Super light and perfect for narrower spaces with lots of power. For me the Milwaukee hand guard would be in the way sometimes.
If you talk to a cabinet installer, most that use a Festool prefer that tool, because installing cabinets isn’t about power, it’s about control of your tool, and seating cabinet screws perfectly as smooth as possible. I’m not gonna lie, I bought the Milwaukee because for a DYI’r it has wayyyyy more options to use any bits you want. Plus it has that sweet offset attachment. Plus Festool is priced at $300-$400 plus you have to buy Festool specific bits for that tool. The Festool battery only fits that tool. No flexibility whatsoever. So I may not be a cabinet installer, but I am a M12 and M18 Milwaukee user. The Milwaukee is a sound choice overall. Great review.
I'm based in Scotland so looking at this from a European stand point but i feel like some of the most important factors when purchasing a 12v driver were missed in this test. The most important in my opinion being the fine adjustment in torque/clutch setting for driving delicate screws and fixing during installations. Personally i own a makita 12v drill driver because of its ultra short body (doesn't have multi heads so not applicable) and the Mafell A10 m multi head driver. Mostly i use mine for kitchen and cabinetry installs, they very rarely drill holes (other than screw holes for handles or small pilot holes ) as i normally have an 18v combi drill to hand that is used for drilling into masonry for fixings. Lends its self well to poping holes in cabinets for pipes etc
Normally i think your tests are on the money but i feel like you've missed so key factors in this one...
I was sold on the Milwaukee until I saw the severe wobble and that electronic forward reverse button.. Great review, as always.
Thanks 👍
been waiting for this category forever
Got the bosch 12v and I love it. It's super light and well built.
Great to hear!
Just finished 5 kitchens with the Milwaukee. Thx for your advice and great video. I never buy new tools, until I have checked your videos.
Right on
Vibration, accuracy and clutch should be included in the test.
Great work.
I am sure this has already been mentioned in the comments below but, I feel a nod should be given to Festool for coming up with this type of tool to begin with. And the CXS has probably been out 10+ years. I have the CXS,vMilwaukee, and Bosch versions of these types of drills and I tend to always reach for the CXS. If I need anymore power I actually jump to my 18V stuff. There is just something about the build quality/fit & finish about it that makes me really enjoy using it. Thanks for the reviews as always, Toolbox Team!
One thing that is forgotten about is platform investment. Milwaukee has hands down the most 12v tools. Second I would say Bosch. I have been using Bosch for a long time and they work flawlessly. If your doing woodwork for drilling I would go with FLEX 24v. I do HVAC work so I’m all about the 12V Bosch and Milwaukee.
Just bought the Milwaukee with 2 2AH batteries. Mailbox installation is the challenging application & home, because of working on the mounting space. I didn’t know of the other brands, & that was all they had @ Home Depot. I like it!
The direction switch isn’t perfect but I love it otherwise. Nice solid tool.
Hi there I'm an alarm engineer and I have been using the milwaukee m12 for 6 months now as my 1st and 2nd fix drill driver and it's always on my tool belt I love it apart from the direction button
Thank you for the great comparision. It helped me a lot on what to look for.
I wanted to point out that the Bosch you compared is the old model.
The newer version has a bushless moto making it smaller ang giving it a whopping 310 inc pound torgue.
it would be interesting to see how it stands up to the others (especially with the 6AH battery giving it a better stand capeability)
I got my Milwaukee Installation driver a few months ago and I love it.
I'm on the fence with the Milwaukee. I was looking for a new daily driver so I bought it a few days ago and returned it the next day. It was well built and attachments were handy but there were three things that really bothered me.
1) The size of the grip. This is a problem with all M12 tools as the grip has to be larger than it should be to accommodate the battery. This tool is meant to be held from the back like a drywall gun so I probably could have gotten over it.
2) The reverse switch is in the wrong place. Yeah once you get on board with holding it like a drywall gun then the button isn't so bad.
3) Not more compact that the tools I was trying to replace. Once you add an attachment out front and have your hand behind the tool the whole setup is longer than my full size Milwaukee Gen 3 drill. The "hand guard" only makes the situation worse and really does tend to get in the way in tight spaces. I did like the magnetic bit holder feature though!
Minor gripes: Tool should run more quietly. High speed is a tad too fast for the amount of torque (bogs down). It should retain hex bits/drills without any attachment (not just with a magnet). LED light is just OK. Lowest setting on the clutch is still too much power for small fasteners.
At the moment I'm trying out the 12V DeWalt Xtreme screwdriver as my daily driver. This thing is tiny, quiet, and powerful. Most of my drills have hex shanks so I don't miss the chuck. If I am in a really tight space I can just use my right angle drill. If I need a ton of power I can just use my Milwaukee Gen 3 drill. If I am framing with screws I will use my M18 surge.
You messed up by taking it back. I have ran all those tools and milwaukee hands ✋ down is way above the competition in durability trust me. Milwaukee is all I run now and they never disappoint.
DeWalt is releasing their own 12v installation driver with muiltple chucks 9/21 -- you may like that.
The advent of brushless power and compactness have transformed this class. Ignore any brushed versions. The new Bosch is brushless, with 130% more torque than old model.
This is a very useful comparison, if a bit subjective in places. Thank you for your efforts.
no, its 30% more torque
@@mvhan911 35Nm vs 15Nm is actually an increase of 133%. Bosch official specs.
@@Tensquaremetreworkshop soft torque is 15 vs 20 Nm and hard torque is 30 vs 35 nm. The naming is confusing. They should name it by using the same parameter.
The most important thing to test is clutch sensitivity with smallest fasteners in those tools... And you test everything but that ....
Great pointthx
Who needs precision in finishing work anyway, speed and power is all you need 😉
@@ConcordCarpenter I do that by feel no situation is that consistent you can set it and for get it.
Agreed. My DeWalt drill is far too strong on even the lowest setting. The Bosch brushless Flexiclick has been flawless in this regard.
I've owned that Metabo for about a year now, hands down the best drill I've ever owned. Power of an 18v, weight of a 10.8v. It's so ergonomic, and I kid you not, one of those 4ah batteries sometimes last me over a week (I install office furniture for a living).
You make a good point about the attachments being difficult to put on - the trick is to press the forward trigger whilst slotting them on and then they'll slot on like butter (this need not apply to the chuck attachment though). Don't know about your difficulties pulling them off, however - I've had no problems myself.
The only other cons I can think of for this drill is that the battery slot is unconventional (release button at the back of the drill body) which means that once every blue moon to you'll put the drill down funny or unintentionally put pressure on the button and thus accidentally realise your battery. In a perfect world every drill's battery slots would be like Panasonic's but you can't win 'em all. The other slight niggle is that the 1/4" collet attachment is a bit on the wobbly side. Rarely really are 1/4" collets as sturdy straight as chucks but Metabo's attachment could've been more solid, considering its price.
I'd love to give that Hilti a go, but regardless I don't see myself moving from the Metabo front, not in the world of 12volts anyway.
Brilliant review, thanks so much. As an amateur DIY wood worker who also makes the occasional cabinet etc, high power and carry cases are not important. What most attracts me is the ability to work in tight spaces, compact, light weight and reasonable cost, so it’s a draw between Bosch and Milwaukee. As the Bosch is more compact, I’ll go with that. It’s just a pity it’s not brushless and brushes are not replaceable. Thanks again.
There's a newer brushless model as well. It's been available for quite some time.
Bosch has just released in North America the brushless version of the 12 volt flexiclick (higher torque, belt clip) and finally the 18 volt version with optional sds attachment!
Do you happen to have a hyper link for the Bosch 18V Flexi-click? I love the features all of these drills provide but could use a little more power in certain situations.
Matt Ro
It’s available in Canada. Just came out.
www.mississaugahardware.com/product/gsr18v-535fcb15-18v-ec-brushless-connected-ready-flexiclick-5-in-1-drilldriver-system-with-1-cor
Matt Ro there is a link in description below
@@ConcordCarpenter Much obliged, sir. Stay busy and stay safe!
That thing is pretty nice looking
Did you see the wobble in the Milwaukee at 17:30? I tried one that was just as bad and the tool shook in my hand when used at high speed. Not good.
The thing that you didn't mention about the festool proprietary central shaft thing is that the extra length and design makes the bit have FAR less wobble than a standard hex bit. This is great for really small screws, or in a situation where you don't want to slip out of a screw head and damage something.
That's why you get Metabo or Hilti and put a cenrotec chuck on it. Btw of all the brands Hilti has the cheapest chucks sold separately. I have to double check on that cause it was half a year ago. I have like 3 jacobs chucks, original bit holder, Mafell bit holder and centrotec. Drill bits that i use the most just stay in the chuck and i just click on/off quickly.
I own two festool drills and can't confirm Centrotec has less wobble. If I want less wiggle I use the Jacobs chuck😂
@@ivannedkov centrotec fits on hilti confirmed?
Use a magnetic bit holder, and you get a secure screw hold.
@@Tensquaremetreworkshop that annoys me to no end. That's why I got the Bosch. The 12V-35FC has 310 in-lbs torque and comes in an L-Boxx. The LED lighting is still sub par.
Will definitely be checking this video out later today, but just a heads up, bosch finally released the brushless flexiclick set in the USA, GSR12V-300FCB22.
I think that's the one we got
@@ConcordCarpenter You tested the old version; the yellow led gave it away. The new one has a bright white led. Different model number too. I do hope you get a hold of one of those to put through the paces. The new brushless model kicks ass.
Keep it up! I'd love to see the toolbox buzz crew do a head to head of the cordless 5" random orbit sanders on the market.
@@NWGR Not only the led color. This 5year old model is longer than the new one.
@@NWGR Interesting - Bosch set us that one.
@@ConcordCarpenter The brushless version literally just came out in the states, so it's no surprise they sent you the old one. Like I said, I hope you get a hold of that one. I think you'll like it. :-)
While I am heavily invested in the M12 platform. For ergonomics, I prefer Hilti all day long. when you have to fit 3 18650s into a handle, it makes the tool very cumbersome for short stubby and fat hands like mine.
I want to love the Milwaukee, because I have various M12 tools, but did they design this "installation driver" for a 3 handed person?
How are you supposed to hold something in one hand and drill with the other if you need to switch between F/R, which if you've installed anything, is quite a common need?? Lol
I found myself holding this tool like a drywall gu in the web of my thumb - one you try it you'll see its easy
Festool was the original drill with the offset heads. My Festool is 12 years old now and still super smooth!
Same here I got the t15 and it’s brill.
Reading your post made me remember what my buddy said about his CXS. He has had it over a decade and loves it! When I’ve worked with him I remember him raving about how well it works. He does kitchens and baths and one remembers how another broadcasts his glee when using the right tool! Festool was the start of these new amazing tools.
C12 and C18 here….. the 18 is a safe queen and the 12 keeps soldiering on. Got one of the last bps 12 s batteries. Cxs is next need it want it😜
Metabo is best!! Powerfull, light and the quick chuck is easy to use. To adjust and install and remove
Nice comparison. I have the Bosch. I've accidentally dropped the attachments so often that I've decided to replace it. It honestly might happen three times during an evening in the garage (I'm not a professional). Adjusting the chuck torque limit I honesly WAY to often accidentally release the chuck from the tool. This review helped me choose what to exchange it with.
I have 4 Bosch 12v tools. They have been good and I like using them. But if I we’re starting from zero today, I would probably buy Milwaukee. They just seem to be more broadly innovative with developing new tools within the 12v platform. For me, cross tool battery compatibility is a huge factor.
I have the Festool and love the centrotec fitting, the level of play in the bit holder is virtually nil. Also, isnt it 10.8v I don't think this was mentioned in the review unless I missed it. Another great informative review guys, keep them coming and stay safe.
Yeah, there isn't a better bit holder that I've ever used that's as good as the Wiha Centrofix. The Fastcap taper lock comes close.
The 10,8 V and 12v nonsense should everyone already know!!! It's MARKETING!!!!
18650er cells have the min. voltage of 3,6 V (x3 = 10,8V )
But a maximum end voltage after charging of 4V ( x3 = 12V )
Newer cells have even more endvoltage... 4,2 V ( ---> 12,6V package voltage ).
I think Kühn was trying to communicate the fact that 10.8v and 12v are the same thing.
@@robertrada4783
Sorry my English is not so good
Kühn it was just a comment on the stated voltages.
Hope you don’t mind but I went straight to the end and looked at the results THEN I looked at the whole video!
Great work guys!
When you check power try and make sure many of these drills aren’t using the tiny batteries because the amp hours do make a difference.... not be partial to Milwaukee because I own them but even when I told a friend to buy the higher amp hour batteries for his makita tools he said they not only last longer but make more power.
I tried the Milwaukee, but wound up taking it back. Reasons: The placement high in the grip of the 18650’s just make it uncomfortable for longer use. Second switch placement on top, made it a pain to access except with two hands and taking it within view to ensure positive finger placement.
Hello TBB Team, I as a German know that the Festool CXS was not built for this test, if you have dealt with Festool a little more, the Festool does not know (except DRC and PDC) for construction workers but for finish carpenters. It does not matter that the drill driver is powerful and has a high speed, but is mainly used when installing fittings. And here you don't need high speeds, but a sensitive drill driver with a very low speed and good control. Anyone who has ever used a Festool drill driver knows that there is no more sensitive drill driver on the market than this one. What was also neglected in this test is the topic of service, because alongside Hilti Festool there is also a good deal, three years of service plus 10 years of spare parts guarantee !! You won't find that anywhere else. In a nutshell, Festool is a device in itself, which has no place in this test. All four other candidates are built for the rough, Festool is for the fine when accuracy is important. Because the other cordless screwdrivers are rather useless.
Anton Busse great feedback, thanks!
Very true, you hit the nail on the head.
Accurate to make little hole and screw 😁 guarantee 10 y for weakness
All of these are cabinet drills. None of them are powerful or meant for rough construction. They're all meant for finish carpentry.
Festool is meant for finish carpentry in general, but these other brands make tools for all sorts of trades, not just construction.
@@histguy101 I’ve used all of these but the Metabo (although have owned other Metabo drills). The Festool has waaaaaay more control. Any Festool drill has way more control than any other drill. I prefer the T18 over the CXS because neither are torque monsters (gave the CXS away years ago). Meanwhile, I did some framing last week with nothing but 12v Hilti drills. From what I understand the Metabo 12v is significantly more powerful.
The Metabo looks a great bit of kit but it only comes with the keyless chuck attachment. Buying all the other heads pushes the price up quite a bit.
I like the Milwaukee but I prefer using a small drill holster to using a belt clip and I doubt it'll fit with the front handle.
Love my Bosch set! They have a newer brushless version I’ll get when and if the old one dies
Great video as always guys! I wonder how the DeWalt 12 volt version of this tool would stack up? They were late to the party.
DeWalt got it wrong. I have a lot of their tools, but not the 12v- tacking the battery on the bottom is just stupid. Fitting it into the handle changes the whole balance (for the better) and is a major point of 12v tools. With brushless, they are as powerful as 18v brushed. And last as long.
Super helpful video, thank you. I was on a job site with someone that had the Hiliti, and was immediately sold on it's power. We put an 1" hole in framing lumber in a place where only it would fit. I wonder how Bosch's updated driver changes it's standing. It's now smaller and just as powerful as the Milwaukee for the same cost, though the reviews I've read still mention accidental accessory release.
Late to the party here, but the CXS includes an adapter for the Centrotec chuck that holds 1/4" bits. Additionally, the nose of the tool also accepts 1/4" bits, so if you go completely chuckless you can put any 1/4" hex shank bit into it; it will be magnetically retained (and if it's short, be a bear to pull out). Its trigger control is second to none that I've ever tried, and it's not built for drilling 3/4" holes through construction lumber - it's meant for drilling small holes and installing tiny to medium sized screws, and it excels in those tasks.
I have a Milwaukie which I use for everything. Don’t need another drill at all. This tool covers all I need. Attachments are nice to have in case, but as a go to drill and screw machine it’s as good or better than any other.
You do great reviews/tests...thank you!
I can't see how Milwaukee won the ergonomics. The forward and reverse button location and type of button is a deal breaker. It will be the Metabo or the Festool. Hard to beat the German designs.
And it's M12, so it has the big fat handle to accommodate the old batteries.
That's features not ergonomics. Big difference
From what I read they are made in China 😉
@@justinsgr8 some metabo are actually made in Germany. Well the good metabo tools are. The ones you get in Menards and alot of big box stores are the cheap china made crap
@@kentuckybeardsman I gotcha, I wanted the 12v multi drill but look into where it was made and it was china. Not that I care but I'm just speaking in the made in germany thing. I have hilti, milwaukee, making, dewalt and snap on drills and impacts along with sawzalls and everything else. I just like tools , I don't much care where it's made as long as it works. I tool that works is a good one to me.
Im into getting the job done.
Good video
For me Mafell A18 MBL hands down
Mafell is the daddy of woodworking tools
I have had so many festool tools over the past 15 years and was a big fan until I tried mafell plunge saw
It makes ta 55 look silly
Great head to head! What are your thoughts on the location of Milwaukee's forward/reverse button? Seems like it would take some time to get used to.
No, it sucks. Why get used to the bad? You will have trouble finding the current direction. You can't feel it so you will only have to look at these white triangles, and it is impossible to see which one is glowing in direct sunlight.
I sure wish “they” had some of these tools before I retired . Don’t laugh... I remember when the Yankee push screwdriver was the first cordless drill driver!
Thanks for another great informative review!!!
You never had to worry about recharging its battery!.
Pete Stanhope me too
I use to use a yankee for doing door hardware in the 80-90's
@@davidhull1610 No, it was your OWN battery that needed recharging after hours of yankee use.
@@chuckschillingvideos that's what a cold beer was invented for! 👍
Had the Bosch for years in uk needs a brushless body, maybe soon impact and drill driver released in uk this month.
Very cool test! Much appreciated. As a German, I was always wondering that there are so less multi head drills out there, maybe a festool patent thing which recently ran out, i dont know. For now I love the metabo, the bosch brushless and i like the Milwaukee. The latter downside here is unfortunately an upside in your comparison in the US : price. In Germany I would pay, as of today for the whole Pack with 2 Batteries way more than 300 €... An actual (not thorough) comparison Shows me the Milwaukee for 50€ more than the festool dont even talking about the Rest... Never the less, the price thing is always divided by a big ocean, what the Rest is concerned, love your test, love your approach couldnt want more. Keep up guys and thanks
Thanks for the comment
How did you not mention the extremely "unique" fwd/reverse and lock buttons on the Milwaukee?
i think because of that it should be at 5th place, but 1st for some reason ...
im only talking about ergos of course, it is a quality equipment but that fwd/ reverse ..... i don't like it.
@@adamchc3701 I don't see any reviews where people like it. Seems like a clear fail by milwaukee.
@@adamchc3701 "sponsorship" 😁
Hey brother. Thank you for the great review. Buying the Milwaukee today. Your review sold me. Absolutely the best reviews on TH-cam period. Haha man would it be great if you where my neighbor. Wait no. Scratch that. I would be broke from buying to many tools.
Wow.This is an excellent comparison video. Great job.
Does the drilling jig have a leveling adjustment? If so, was it used to level the drilling angle of the bits? The reason I ask is because @17:58 minutes in the shot of the Milwaukee drilling with the spade bit, the bit appears to be pointing at a downward angle. This would lengthen the time it took to drill through the wood since the sled is linear and the bit is not, thus causing drag. If you were to manually drill a hole with the drill held at that angle, the bit would follow that angle and the hole would not be 90° through the wood. Otherwise it was a very informative video, and I still gave it a thumbs up vote.
Autotech1 optical illusion- we leveled each driver prior to the rest. Does look that way though doesn’t it?
@@ConcordCarpenter Great video guy's 👍🏻 I know this isn't very scientific but what did the guys testing think was the best in there opinion?
Very thorough comparison, thanks.
Thanks for watching!
Great video. I own (2) Milwaukee installation drivers. I believe the 179.00 price quoted for the Milwaukee is for the tool only. - Kit price is 229.00
I was going to bring up the same thing thank you
How do you like the forward/reverse switch? It's such a deal breaker for me
@@MrArcticPOWER it's a disaster.
festool CXS is still the best in this category. The ergonomics is unbeatable... I tried them all (except the Bosch)
I keep hearing about flimsy/cheap build feel in the festool. Is this true? And is the cxs a brushed tool?
Thanks
@THE BELL LIFE FAN CLUB thank you for the response. Think I’m going to buy 👍
@THE BELL LIFE FAN CLUB thank you, I had read that and hoping the quality is just as good 👍
@THE BELL LIFE FAN CLUB thanks so much !
it is brushed but does not feel cheap or flimsy.
Paid $179 for my installation kit I’m happy o try out my Milwaukee one
I was so impressed with the in-depth information that I decided to subscribe. Very informative & a great variety of users. Nothing says it better than experience!
Welcome aboard. Check out our other head to heads
@@ConcordCarpenter I will
One thing I would consider is the overall 12v platform offered, how many other tools do they offer to run off the same batteries? That is a big factor for someone who is in the trades and might be using these tools.
I love these reviews so much...not sure why but I can't look away. Would love to geek out testing a bunch of tools all day! ha
Keep up the good work!
I’m surprised you didn’t mention or seem to factor in the forward/reverse placement on the Milwaukee. I’m all for Milwaukee, but that is tripping me up. Thanks for another head to head though. Nice work. 👍🏻
There are 3 or 4 diferent models of 10,8V so caled 12max multihead milfucky chinesium brand, and only one is this front heavy crap weird switch presented here ( Milwaukee is 100% chinese brand, fuly owned by TTI HK along Ryobi China, AEG/Ridgid power tools, all hobby, and some other ex US brands. Only milwaukee is rated pro but last only 2 year of pro use, and sometimes even only 3 months from new before needing service). One is not brushless ( brushless are crap, 8X more noisy from the fan - larger diameter motor with higher RPM, wey more expensive elctronic driver, expensive motor, and even more expensive gears), nice angled grip, but the same stupid bulky reversed pack compared to Bosch. And there are 2 or 3 more brushless, one new stupid big and heavy, and one or two Okish but with ssme stupid bulky grip. Metabo had an older model bs quick pro, rebranded also as Mafell A10M, with same stupid reverse pack grip, 2 cells in the back and one in front, very bad...
Bosch is OK, but FC angled head is stupid bulky. On FC2 for 14,4/18V there is an optional slim angled head, and also the FC2 bulky model, but for GSR 12V-15 FC and 12V-35 FC there is only the bulky one with blocking function for the excentric head. Hilti is more expensive in EU, is 200 E without the 2 x 4Ah paks and without charger...And is bigger. And is rated for 14mm drilling in wood, and bosch is rated for 25mm and can do even 35, and 12V-15 is heavy duty.
Also Hilti SFE is noisy brushless noisy with expensive parts, and also has a metal outhercase chuck, front heavy and destructive for furniture on contact...
GSR 12V-35 brushless is rated also heavy duty but is new, no long term feedback. Has higher RPM and a bit more torque so I think it needs a bigger pack with 2 rows, 4Ah or 6 Ah, 3 inside and 3 down, I don't trust the kit with 3Ah compact for this model, but for 12V-15 is good, and 2Ah also very good.
Festool CXS is a waste, can't get flush in fiberboard 4x30mm even in speed1, and is slow and we need speed 2. Old Festool T12 @ 2,6 Ah compact was worlds better, altrough not for 35mm drilling...
@@loochan325 your point is?
Some Milwaukee may not be great
Especially the chapter stuff but it's much the same on other brands.
I've had my brushless hammer drills 5 and 6 years still going strong.
Most of my Milwaukee stuff has handled well.
You can get the brushless bosch in the USA now.
Time for a REMATCH!
right and send it in for repair after two weeks...no, thanks u
@@abolit what are you talking about? Bosch tools are generally super reliable. You can always get a lemon but for real I've seen way more people wasting a Milwaukee or DeWalt cordless tool than a Bosch or Makita
Looked up the Hilti SFE 2-A12 on a Hong Kong suppliers site. For the tool, 2 small batteries and a cheap charger was going to be 2900 HKD. That is about $377. That is almost double the Milwaukee and Bosch prices.
Fudge Festool!!! Milwaukee baby
Bosch won to me. The new brushless is out and is more compact than its predecessor; it's also equal in torque as the Milwaukee now.
I'm with you. I have that one for a while and the 12v 15 FC as well and it's a hack of more power!
Bosch, even the old one they test, should have ranked higher.
Oswaldo Agurto I agree. The Bosch is $120-150 with the kit. Milwaukee is 229 kit, 179 bare tool. What rank it higher for me is the locking offset tool, the Milwaukee is only a magnet.
12V-15FC is no 1, and the reasons for that are:
1. 12V-35FC is wey noisyer like most brushless.
2. 12V-35FC has wey more expensive parts like all brushless, electronic driver and motor, also gearbox, etc., so repairing is absurd.
3. 12V-15 @ 15 Nm soft torqe or true torque vs 12V-35 @ 20Nm true torque is practicaly very close, more so considering the fact that I can use autoblocking to easy manual thitening.
4. 12V-15 is less expensive, and more so considering body parts.
5. Festool 8 Nm true torque in speed 1, is a bad joke, more so when is no more fully charged. 16Nm hard torque is from 2010 universal iso only from kinetic energy ar full speed 2 when stop in shock, and in speed 2 true torque is more close to 5 Nm...
6.milfucky is a fully oun 100% chinese HK brand, zero pride for an american and even less so for a european.
7. That particular milfucky has the worst ergonomy, front heavy and with that absurdly stupid top button placement. More so, that particular model has a vertical grip, and not the angled one that other milfucky show, and that mised angled grip is the only nice ting about milfucky ergonomic wise.
In Europe therd are 4 difetent milfucky models, one is this crap, and all other show fine angled grip and reasonable reverse switch crosbolt type, two are noisy brushless, and one with brushes but still overpriced.
8. That Metabo is wey to big, enough said...
9. Older more compact Metabo, cloned also for Mafell, is compact, powerful, but slower and with horible ergonomics with that stupid reversed pack, very very bad, and also less reliable compared to Bosch that is heavy duty for its class.
10. Hilti is bigger and less powerfull, otherwise there is a new 4Ah pack with 21700 cells that is nice. This model SFE is new to me, never seen in Europe by me, but still less torque and bigger.
In Europe I seen new gen 2 model that are brushless, more powerful but wey noisyer and also mote expensive parts, so no interest to me.
Bosch is not perfect,
for example under the trigger is no separation for next finger, is a little bulky but still compact,
FC is longer then non GC or 12V-35FC and non FC, acu osck is hard to pray from the tool, the case has big toletances and so the gearbox si a little woubly, but all this are manageble small things compared to wey bigger fault found on others.
Anywey, about the test here, there are other things to be sed or corect, more then just the unapropiate judgement about milfucky ergonomics...
For instance, even if Festool has not enought torque even in speed 1, there are two big things that are not bad like they are described, first there is a mundane Festool magnetic adaptor for normal bits, usualy in the same kit or easely available, and second, there is reason whay festool -hwo is the inventor of the excentrichuck, does not need that on cxs/txs, because the particular angled adaptor for this particular tool is very thin and can get very close alone.
Loo Chan I work as an auto technician and vested in many Milwaukee M12 and Dewalt's 20v products. I am mainly a Dewalt guy. Having the m12 batteries, I almost, almost, bought the Milwaukee 5-1. Glad I didn’t. It does have a high grip, like a drywall gun. I didn’t mind it, but the switch button on top was a no-go. Being stuck at home now, I wanted a 5-1 for home projects. I purchase 12V FC-15. I like the balance, wide trigger, grip angle, good power. So impressed with the German driver, I bought the PS-41 impact too. And I like it better than my gen 2, 2553 impact. I seem to have better trigger controller on brushed tools. Bosch batteries are more repairable, unlike Makita batteries also.
Hi, How do you think about Dewalt multi head DCD703F1? Thank you.
That Hilti is pretty sweet!
I have a non-multi head Hilti drivers and would caution that since the lights are on the battery they may be obscured if you have big hands or are wearing gloves.
Also their drivers are surprisingly heavy. I have had cordless Makita drills but the Hilti drivers weigh 30% more.
If you are Hilti curious check the website. I got my reconditioned Hilti drivers for $49 apiece. They have many good deals there.
I wonder if the milwaukee would have done better on the spade bit test if the chuck had less throwout 🤔
I was more concerned that the video clearly shows a 5 degree angle of impact but its being pressed in straight not following the angle of the bit which exacerbates the normal trough out of the chuck
I’m just wondering how the Milwaukee won the ergonomics with the way it requires to switch forward and reverse.
Important issue of Milwaukee - 17:34 what on earth had happened to the center mount of the drill in the chuck ? How can you precisely drill if there is at least 3mm offset from center with the drill chuck ???
"Could be an optical illusion" (c) A Concord Carpenter / ToolBoxBuzz
But on the last Amazon Day and HD and Lowe’s similar days I bought a ton of Milwaukee stuff. And two packs of their HO batt/charge kits. They’re awesome in that their power is unrivaled to what I’ve used. But they’re friggin heavy lol. I’ve noticed they don’t spin true at all drilling or whatever and I’m watching this vid at 20:20ish seeing the same wobble. Definitely don’t have my Makita’s precision or construction. Any thoughts?
12:37 I see hazard - insulation material dust. Why your ceiling is not closed?
There are many disadvantages to the Festool CXS. They don't make an offset chuck for it and the battery can't be used on any other Festool tool. Also, the centrotec system is limiting and very an added accessory expense. That being said I still love mine and plan on keeping it as long as possible. I've used the Milwaukee, which is super capable and extremely powerful. It doesn't feel as refined to me as the Festool drill but I would still recommend it. You could pretty much use the Milwaukee for everything and not have to carry multiple drills. You can drive lag screws with it, which is a real struggle for the Festool. Love the review. Would have liked to see the Dewalt in the lineup. It doesn't look like theirs is very popular though.
Got the Milwaukee 4in1 use it the most unless I really need an impact driver m12 all day long, love it:)
I had a Festool , very underwhelming in torque/power . I like the Flexclic , but only around the house , the chuck seems to like to come detached ! I currently carry the Milwaukee in the field ! I made a holster for mine that carries the drill , chuck , 90 degree adaptor . That said , I still have two dedicated angle drills .
The Festool CXS is the weakest of all professional 12v drills available, low rpm and torque. The design is quite old, its technically outdated. But it has the best handling and control, and power doesn‘t matter in fine carpentry.
The Bosch attachments come undone when changing the torque setting. People often accidently move the attachment retaining ring as well, unlocking it. Check the indicator after changing the torque setting.
Good video. To measure "size" in the future, vacuum seal the tools and then use water displacement .
Thanks for this! I am moving from Bosch to Milwaukee and was curious about the Milwaukee because the Bosch Flex tool is one of my favorites.
Is that Metabo installation tool brushless? And can you throw an 18v battery into it?
Great detailed review as usual. Best is subjective. I own the Milwaukee and love it. However, the forward/reverse location is insane to me. They have literally hundreds of tool with the easy to use, tried and true slider. For me the Metabo is simply too friggin big for tight spaces. Looks like a full size 18v tool compared to the others. Some may need power over compactness though. I was going to get the Bosch just when the Milwaukee was introduced. Battery platform made my decision for me. I'm honestly a bit disappointed, since I'm also eying the 12v router and planer from Bosch. Now I'll have to wait on the boys from Wisconsin to bring out these two.
I believe you mean the boys from China.
@@girthbrooks39 Yeah, designed and engineered in USA, built in China, owned by China. Can't argue that. The boys from China do a pretty good job on the tools that carry the Milwaukee label. But don't blame China. Blame corporate America. They sold all of our souls and didn't lose a minute of sleep over it.
Warranties, repair and service cost is also an important factor when you count value in long term of ownership. How does the others compare with HILTIs 20 years warranty for manufacturing faults, 2 year free repair, and after 2 year they have a maximum repair cost of 40% of what a new one cost for the rest of the tools life span. So no worries what it will cost to repair it in the future. That's why I lean on getting the Hilti, because I think it will be the best economical choise in the long run for. Also I like a company that makes sustainable pruducts that last and want to repair and not throw a away and just give out a new one. Also, if you get the 22v and/or 36v machines too, you can charge all betteries in the same charger, 12v, 22v, and 36v. I think Metabo also have one charger for their 12-36v system
As an everyday pro kitchen fitter. My Festool CXS is used many hours every day, out of a 12 hours day. It’s not the fastest, not the most powerful. But every time I try one the new 12 volts from the other brands. They just don’t quite make me satisfied, and I have tried and borrowed them all, from different colleges. The new Milwaukee as you ranked no1, just feels cheap and toy-ish in my hands when compared to my CXS. It has spindle runout, cannot stand up without falling on its nose with attachment on. The direction knob is a pain in the a.. to use. Grip is to thick. Angle chuck is bulky, bit magnet too weak, noisy.
Price wise is the least thing I look at, when I shall use a machine so many hours everyday. Well we all do have different opinions. Btw. I do love my Milwaukee 18v table saw and my Surge and the new powerful M18 impact driver.
But as an old Harley Davidson, or was it Buell Motorcycles commercial once stated.
“You can’t run a spec sheet”
Thanks Rob for another great review.
But I’ll keep my CXS until it gets mahogany 😄
Tried and true bother - use what works for you!
The Milwaukee doesn’t fall over...sure you’re talking about the installation driver?
Todd Fratzel Yes i meant the installation driver.
Hi great video,can i ask if it was your own money and you could only choose between the hilti 12v or the metabo 12v which one gets your money 💰
Thanks
Metabo
what about the brushless bosch flexiclick.
@A Concord Carpenter / ToolBoxBuzz
A few things I had hoped would be part of your test:
1. *Chuck Wobble* or Runout (with bare driver hex chuck and standard drill chuck at least).
2. *Head Length* for compactness. Measured from the back of the motor housing to front tip of the hex bit holder, and to the tip of straight drill chuck jaws.
3. Wish you would have tested the *Bosch BRUSHLESS* version. It has a more compact Head Length AND Higher Torque.
I also feel that the pistol grip design with the battery inside the grip only (not a rectangular base- or foot-type battery) is much more of an advantage for tight spaces, and for light weight when using overhead or contorted in tight spaces.
With the Bosch, you have the OPTION of buying or using your existing 4.0ah & 6.0ah (or larger) rectangular base batteries.
As a professional installer, who cares if you have to keep an extra battery or two on-hand? The pistol grip batteries keep the device compact and lightweight WHILE IN USE, i.e. the primary goal and feature of this type of drill/driver!
Chuck Wobble? "Could be an optical illusion" (c) A Concord Carpenter / ToolBoxBuzz
I hate the pistol grip with the battery inside it. Just feels too bulky
Can this units screw screws
I can't get used to the top selector switch on the milwaukee. I want to like it, but its dumb they put it on top and 100% the reason I won't buy it.
Took awhile to get used to
It does suck and it's not really for people working in real tight spaces, badly thought through and should of been noted on the test 🙁
Couldn't agree more. Iam so tempted to buy the Milwaukee and I really want to like it but it's just that switch. Why on earth did they do that. The amount of times I'm switching between forward and reverse quickly having to do this with my other hand would really frustrate me. Especially if I was holding something in the other hand
@@andrewhay8033
Both the FWD/REV switch placement AND the grip/guard placement make it difficult to use one-handed while in tight spaces. The grip pushes your hand further back so your hand becomes pinched between obstacles in tight areas.
A definite No-Go for its intended purpose as an "installation tool".
Don't know what Milwaukee was thinking other than trying be popular/more attractive by copying or looking like the Festool.
@@bbfoto7248 they(Milwaukee) had to make exact copy of CXS, but on M12 platform. No more.
good video man, going to pick up a festool tomorrow
Thanks
yeah, I have the Festool and I should have bought the Milwaukee. The need for the extended but is the same problem I run into with my Bosch impacts. Aside from that, it is a phenomenal tool and it oozes quality.
Thanks for sharing
i love the milwaukee 2505. i have two 6amp-XC and two 3amp-CP batteries. the recess switches are my new favorite because laying down your tool hard, slightly drop or straight up droping your tool doesn't flip the switched. the tool fits well into my cargo packets. and the grip is oddly unreal. when you go back to other tool, it takes time to shake off having now being off set from being directly the screw.
I'm a healthy guy, and even though I don't have any 12 volt batteries or Chargers I will seriously be considering this thing. It seems perfect for around the house or for jobs that I know ahead of time will be cramped
Would you recommend 12v Metabo BS 12 for DIY? 🤔
Yes!!
@@ConcordCarpenter thank you very much. I was concerned since in my country it's a very rare machine generally. So I needed someone with better knowledge who also knows how genuine it is.
Hard to believe Milwaukee has better ergonomics than festool, specially the buttons location and it can’t stand upright.
I put my tools down regardless if they can stand up but, you can see the tool stand up in the video at 3:21. Button location I can surely agree on. Festool requiring specific bits and basically a lone tool (the batteries only go with this tool), makes this a hard sale for me.
Also used the Festool for some jobs and it fits really great in my hands, best I have ever experienced in fact.
Thanks. I invested in Milwaukee and was on the fence about this tool because of the location of the forward/reverse button. I will buy the tool now because of this video.
Great review on these products. Thanks
18:02 - The drill is not in line, and the rigg is fixed?🤔
At some point it'll worth, if not factoring in at least mentioning depth of line. If I get the Bosch tool how deep and good is the rest of their 12v line VS the Milwaukee M12 line.
I have the Bosch 12v 35 FC with a brushless motor... Which is more powerful than the one they testet Here but so far as I know the new Milwaukee line have a hack of new 12v tools and useful things... They just presented the new tools in Monaco.
Great point
One question, didn't that Milwaukee also had a very severe wobble? I like Milwaukee but the wobble sucks monkeys if that was what it was.
myshots101 yes it wobbles but nowhere near as bad as dewalts.
What wobble? I haven’t noticed anything
@@PatrickBrokkr check the video
I bet Milwaukee wins. Lol. Jk rob. Thanks for your time and effort in this one
I paid $100 for the Bosch on sale at Lowe’s a while back. I’m pleased with it
I believe he works for Milwaukee tool (Chiynna made tools. )😃 or he is a part time salesman for some Mars’s real state commercial.
I have the Bosch, and I got mine in the smallest L-Boxx with an inlay that has each accessory in its own slot. (Europe)
I am confused. Why is the feature on Bosch where you can combine the attachments and do angled + offset or + drillhead not mentioned at all ?!!
Also test of what tight spaces they work in with attachments would be relevant.
Jesper Fogh because they ALL DO IT
@@ConcordCarpenter ok, I didn't know they all did. I saw another test, maybe other models where Bosch was mentioned as the only one that did.
And thank for Great tests btw.
Watching from Denmark, see many of your video's
How does Milwaukee perform against the dewalt one that came out
Great thorough review . Your reviews help me make informed decisions in selecting tools . The Milwaukee / Festool style with the hand guard looks really cool and can stand solidly on it's own but I think it gets in the way of certain projects. I have Milwaukee tools and they're high end and always land on the upper end of most reviewers but the electronic switch on top of the Milwaukee drill is a deal-breaker.I It's not easy access and counter intuitive. It's also recessed and not easy to change directions with just your thumb. Take's two hands and you have to stop to change it. Very poor design and the only one like it. I hope Milwaukee changes that. Just my two cents.
If you are still in the market for one of these Check out the newer 12V Bosch, GSR12V-300FCB22. Acme tools has it for $129, and I think it is the best of the bunch: more torque and faster top speed but still small and light. I ordered mine yesterday with another deal they had, and I got it for $122 with tax and shipping. We are living in the golden age of cordless tools.