Hey everyone! I'm a DIY enthusiast and often find myself using different tools on weekends. I've been using some Ryobi tools, but I recently bought a Milwaukee brushed 12v ratchet kit. Now I'm weighing my options on whether to stick with Ryobi or switch to Milwaukee's 12v lineup. How do the M12 tools compare against the Ryobi One+ brushless tools? Will I see a difference in performance, or are they about the same?
3 Answers
Honestly, if you're just a DIYer, either brand will work for you. However, there's a general rule of thumb: when comparing 12v to 18v tools, 18v usually has the edge in power. The M12 ratchets and impact wrenches are fantastic for what they are, but if you need something for heftier tasks, you might want to lean towards 18v options. That said, both have their place in a tool collection!
I’ve used both brands a lot, and while I started with Ryobi, I’ve switched mostly to Milwaukee. The M12 lineup has a great balance of size and strength, especially for those messier DIY projects where you don't want to ruin your expensive gear. But hey, Ryobi is really budget-friendly and covers a lot of niche products that might appeal to you. Ultimately, it’s really a personal choice, and you don’t have to stick to just one brand. Both have their advantages!
I say go for both! I have a mix of Ryobi and Milwaukee tools, and they each serve their purpose. Ryobi offers loads of affordable tools, like niche ones you won’t find anywhere else, but I find Milwaukee’s M12 hammer drill and impact wrench super reliable for my projects. And while Ryobi is a bit bulkier sometimes, their affordability can’t be beat. Don’t feel limited to just one brand; find what works best for you!