Milwaukee PACKOUT 20oz Tumbler - Black

The Milwaukee PACKOUT 20oz Tumbler in black is a striking addition to any tool enthusiast's collection, seamlessly blending functionality with the rugged aesthetic Milwaukee is known for. As someone who appreciates the durability and reliability of Milwaukee products, I was eager to put this tumbler to the test.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that stands out about this tumbler is its robust construction. Made from high-quality metal, it feels substantial in hand without being overly heavy. Weighing in at just under a pound, it strikes a good balance between sturdiness and portability. The sleek black finish not only looks great but also matches other tools in the Milwaukee lineup, making it a visually appealing choice for those who like their gear to coordinate.

One of the standout features is its twist-to-lock connectivity, which allows the tumbler to securely attach to PACKOUT storage solutions. This modular connectivity is a game-changer for those who are constantly on the move, whether on a job site or during off-road activities. The ability to lock the tumbler into place adds a layer of convenience that’s hard to overlook.

Temperature Retention

When it comes to keeping beverages at the desired temperature, this tumbler excels. Thanks to its double-wall vacuum insulation, I found that my coffee stayed hot for several hours, even in colder weather conditions. Similarly, cold drinks remained chilled throughout the day, making it versatile for both hot and cold beverages. This level of temperature retention is a significant plus, especially for those long workdays where a refreshing sip or a hot coffee can make all the difference.

The Lid: A Double-Edged Sword

The lid design is where the tumbler both shines and falters. It features a sliding magnetic lid that’s easy to open and close, even when wearing gloves. The magnet helps keep the lid securely in place, which is a thoughtful touch. However, the lid is not without its flaws.

Firstly, the lid tends to spritz liquid when opened or closed quickly. This can be particularly annoying if you’re in a rush or if you’re around other people. I found myself having to cover the opening with my hand to avoid spraying coffee or water on nearby surfaces or colleagues.

Secondly, the lid is not spill-proof. While it’s fine for keeping your drink secure in a cup holder or when the tumbler is upright, any tilting or shaking can lead to leaks. This is a significant drawback for a product designed to be part of a mobile system like PACKOUT. If you’re someone who likes to carry your drink in a backpack or if you move your storage solutions around frequently, this could be a deal-breaker.

Ease of Cleaning

Cleaning the tumbler is relatively straightforward, thanks to its dishwasher-safe design. However, the lid requires a bit more attention. The dual-layer magnetic design means you’ll have to take it apart to clean it thoroughly, which can be a bit cumbersome. While not a major issue, it’s something to keep in mind if you prefer low-maintenance drinkware.

Practicality and Everyday Use

In everyday use, the tumbler performs admirably. It’s great for keeping your beverage at the right temperature, and the sturdy build means it can withstand the rigors of a job site or outdoor activities. The twist-to-lock feature is particularly useful, ensuring that your drink stays put even in rough conditions.

However, the lid’s tendency to leak and spritz liquid does detract from its overall practicality. For a tumbler that costs around $30, these issues are somewhat disappointing. While the tumbler’s other features and its compatibility with the PACKOUT system are excellent, the lid’s design flaws cannot be ignored.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee PACKOUT 20oz Tumbler is a well-built, stylish, and functional piece of gear that fits seamlessly into the PACKOUT ecosystem. Its temperature retention capabilities are impressive, and the twist-to-lock feature adds a layer of convenience that’s hard to beat. The all-black design is both sleek and practical, making it a great addition to any Milwaukee fan’s collection.

However, the lid’s design leaves much to be desired. The issues with leaking and spritzing liquid are significant drawbacks, especially for a product that’s meant to be part of a mobile, rugged system. While these flaws don’t entirely negate the tumbler’s many positives, they do make it less practical for certain uses.

Would I recommend this tumbler? If you’re a Milwaukee enthusiast who values the modular connectivity and temperature retention, and you don’t mind the occasional leak or spritz, then yes, it’s a solid choice. However, if spill-proof reliability is a must for you, you might want to look elsewhere or wait for Milwaukee to address these lid issues in a future iteration.