Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2" Drill/Driver with ONE-KEY

Milwaukee has long been a trusted name in the world of power tools, and their M18 FUEL 1/2" Drill/Driver with ONE-KEY (model 2805-20) continues to uphold that reputation. After putting this drill/driver through its paces, I can confidently say it offers a compelling mix of power, compactness, and smart features, though it does have a few quirks.

Design and Build Quality

Right off the bat, the M18 FUEL Drill/Driver impresses with its compact design. At just 6.9 inches in length and weighing 4.62 lbs, this is one of the more maneuverable drills I've used. Its compact size doesn't sacrifice power; it’s capable of delivering up to 1200 in-lbs of torque and speeds up to 2000 RPM. This makes it an excellent choice for working in tight spaces or for extended periods without causing fatigue.

The all-metal ratcheting chuck is robust and provides a solid grip on drill bits. However, I did notice that the chuck can sometimes be a bit slippery, making it challenging to lock smaller bits securely. This issue can be particularly frustrating when working with hardwood or other dense materials where a firm grip is essential.

Performance

In terms of performance, the brushless motor shines. The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor delivers impressive torque and speed, and the variable speed settings (0-550 RPM and 0-2000 RPM) allow for precise control over drilling and driving tasks. The anti-kickback technology is a welcome feature, especially when working with tougher materials. It adds a layer of safety and control that is much appreciated.

The inclusion of ONE-KEY technology is another standout feature. This allows for customizable settings, so you can tailor the tool's performance to specific tasks. It's particularly useful for professionals who need consistency and precision across various projects. The ONE-KEY app is intuitive, and setting up custom profiles is straightforward.

Battery Life and Charging

The M18 FUEL Drill/Driver uses Milwaukee's REDLITHIUM battery system, which provides excellent run time. I found that even the 2.0 Ah batteries included in some kits offer ample power for most tasks. The battery life is long enough that I rarely needed to swap batteries mid-job. There's also a handy battery gauge on the front, so you always know how much charge you have left.

However, the charger included in most kits is the standard version, not the Rapid Charger. The standard charger gets the job done, but it’s noticeably slower. If you’re looking for quicker turnaround times, investing in the Rapid Charger might be worthwhile.

Ergonomics and Usability

One of the most striking aspects of this drill/driver is how comfortable it is to use. The rubber grip handle fits well in hand, providing a secure and comfortable grip even during prolonged use. The drill is well-balanced, which reduces strain and makes it easier to control.

The LED light located at the base is helpful for illuminating your work area, though its placement could be better. I found that it doesn't light up the work area as effectively as some competitor models. This is a minor gripe, but it’s worth mentioning for those who often work in low-light conditions.

Accessories

The kit version of this drill/driver often comes with a tool bag, which is functional but could use some improvements. The bag is quite large and lacks internal organization, making it a bit cumbersome to carry around. A more compact, organized carrying solution would be a welcome addition.

Reliability and Quality Control

While my experience with the M18 FUEL Drill/Driver has been largely positive, I have encountered some inconsistencies with the batteries and chargers. On rare occasions, a battery might not charge correctly, showing a red and green flashing light. This seems to be a known issue, and Milwaukee could do more to address it. That said, when functioning properly, the batteries and chargers are reliable.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2" Drill/Driver with ONE-KEY is a powerful, compact, and versatile tool that should serve both professionals and serious DIYers well. Its high torque and speed capabilities, along with the customizable ONE-KEY settings, make it suitable for a wide range of applications.

Despite some minor issues with the chuck and the LED light placement, the overall performance and build quality of this drill/driver make it a strong contender in its category. The reliability of the battery system could use some improvement, but it’s not a deal-breaker given the tool's other strengths.

Recommendation

I would recommend the M18 FUEL Drill/Driver to anyone in need of a powerful, compact, and feature-rich drill/driver. Its performance and versatility are impressive, and the ONE-KEY technology adds a layer of customization and convenience that sets it apart from many competitors. Just be aware of the potential battery and charger issues and consider investing in a Rapid Charger for faster charging times. Overall, this drill/driver is a solid investment for anyone looking to get serious work done.