Milwaukee Carry-On Power Supply

As someone who frequently works on job sites and occasionally enjoys a camping trip, the Milwaukee Carry-On Power Supply (model 2845-20) has been an intriguing addition to my toolkit. This portable power supply promises to deliver 3600 starting watts and 1800 running watts of pure sine wave inverter energy, making it suitable for a variety of tools and sensitive electronics. Here’s my comprehensive take on its performance, features, and overall utility.

Design and Build Quality

Milwaukee has a reputation for rugged, well-built tools, and the Carry-On Power Supply is no exception. Weighing in at 28 pounds without batteries, it’s not exactly featherweight, but the heft gives it a reassuringly solid feel. The integrated carrying handle and optional shoulder strap make it relatively easy to transport, though the unit does become noticeably heavier once you add four M18 batteries.

One of the standout features is its lockable battery bays, which add a layer of security to prevent theft. However, the plastic construction of the locking mechanism could be a weak point; anyone with basic tools could potentially bypass it. The batteries are inserted from the top, making it easy to swap them out, and the design allows for simultaneous charging of all four batteries, which is a significant plus.

Performance

The power supply excels in delivering clean, stable power. I tested it with a variety of tools and appliances, including a circular saw, a refrigerator, and even a space heater. For high-wattage tools, the unit performed admirably, providing consistent power without any hiccups. The pure sine wave inverter is a boon for sensitive electronics, ensuring they run smoothly without risk of damage.

However, the unit does have some limitations. It requires all four batteries to be installed to function, and if one battery fails, the entire system shuts down. This can be particularly frustrating if you’re relying on it for critical tasks. Additionally, the unit does not support pass-through charging, meaning you can’t use it to power devices while it’s plugged in and charging the batteries.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is a mixed bag. Using four 12.0 HD batteries, I found that the power supply could run a refrigerator for about 12 hours, which is impressive. However, when running high-draw tools or appliances like a space heater, the runtime drops significantly. For instance, with four 5.0Ah batteries, the unit powered a small heater for just about 10 minutes.

One major drawback is the standby drain. Even when not in use, the unit consumes power, which can deplete the batteries overnight if left connected. This makes it less ideal for emergency backup situations unless you’re vigilant about disconnecting the batteries when not in use.

Usability and Features

The Carry-On Power Supply is user-friendly, with straightforward controls and clear indicators for battery charge levels and power output. The inclusion of both USB-C PD and USB-A ports is a nice touch, allowing you to charge phones and other devices simultaneously. The unit also functions as a battery charger, which is convenient, although it charges more slowly compared to Milwaukee’s dedicated rapid chargers.

Applications

This power supply shines in specific scenarios. For job sites where noise and emissions are a concern, it offers a quiet, clean alternative to gas generators. It’s also a great companion for camping trips, providing ample power for lights, small appliances, and electronic devices.

However, it’s not without its limitations. The inability to hot-swap batteries without shutting down the unit is a significant inconvenience, especially for continuous use applications. The lack of multiple input power sources, such as solar or car socket charging, also limits its versatility.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee Carry-On Power Supply is a robust, well-designed unit that excels in delivering clean, stable power for a variety of tools and electronics. Its build quality and thoughtful features like lockable battery bays and simultaneous charging make it a valuable addition to any toolkit.

However, it’s not without its flaws. The standby drain, inability to function with fewer than four batteries, and lack of pass-through charging are significant drawbacks. For those heavily invested in the Milwaukee M18 platform, this power supply offers a convenient, portable solution for on-the-go power needs. But for others, especially those looking for more versatile or emergency-ready power solutions, the limitations might be a deal-breaker.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Carry-On Power Supply? If you’re already invested in Milwaukee’s M18 ecosystem and need a portable, emissions-free power source for job sites or camping, then yes, it’s a solid choice. Its performance and build quality are top-notch, and it offers a level of convenience that gas generators simply can’t match.

However, if you’re looking for a more versatile power solution with features like hot-swappable batteries, multiple input charging options, and better standby efficiency, you might want to explore other options. The Carry-On Power Supply is a step in the right direction, but it falls short in a few critical areas that could make or break its utility depending on your specific needs.