Makita vs Milwaukee cordless tools compared

Milwaukee M12 and M18

Milwaukee M18 is the main 18 V range. Fuel marks the brushless, high output models, such as the M18 FPD3 percussion drill and M18 FID2 impact driver. Standard M18 tools, such as the BPD drill, are cheaper and simpler. The M12 range is a separate compact system popular with electricians and plumbers for tools like the four head FDDX drill driver.

M12 and M18 batteries are not interchangeable, so many trades run both. The upside is that M12 tools are genuinely small and light.

Makita LXT, twin 18 V and XGT

Makita LXT is the 18 V range, with hundreds of power and garden tools. Larger tools, such as plunge saws and SDS drills, take two 18 V packs at once for 36 V. That lets you run bigger tools on the batteries you already have.

Makita's XGT range is 40 V max (36 V nominal) with its own batteries and is aimed at heavy tools. It does not take LXT packs without an adaptor, so think about whether you need it. Most home and many trade users stay with LXT.

Two 18 V drill kits side by side

These are both kits that include at least one battery and a charger, so they work out of the box.

Compare Milwaukee drills →

Power and feel

Milwaukee's Fuel drills post very high torque figures, which suits large augers, hole saws and self feed bits. That power needs a firm grip and a side handle. Makita's equivalent high torque drill driver, the DDF486, lists 130 Nm, while its compact drills are tuned for light weight.

If your work is mostly fixing, cabinet fitting and general DIY, top torque matters less than weight and clutch control. If you bore through joists all day, it matters a lot.

Garden tools and outdoor kit

Makita's LXT range includes mowers, strimmers, hedge trimmers, blowers and chainsaws on the same 18 V packs, and twin 18 V garden tools for heavier work. If you want one battery family for the house and garden, that breadth is a real advantage.

Milwaukee's M18 range has outdoor tools too, including hedge trimmers, blowers and chainsaws, but it is more focused on construction, plumbing and electrical trades. Check that the garden tools you need are sold in the UK before you commit.

Buying from UK listings

Both brands are sold worldwide, and US versions often appear on marketplaces. US Milwaukee codes usually have four digits and a dash, such as 2804-20, while UK and EU codes read like M18FPD3-0. US Makita codes start with X, such as XPH, while UK codes start with D, such as DHP. US kits come with 120 V chargers and US plugs, which are no use on a UK supply.

Check that the listing names the UK model code and, for kits, a UK plug charger. If the listing says it is sold from abroad, confirm the warranty applies in the UK.

Which should you choose?

Choose Milwaukee if you are a trade user who wants the strongest drills and drivers, or if M12 compact tools suit your work. Choose Makita if you want one battery for house, garden and workshop, light compact tools and twin 18 V options for bigger tools.

Compare current models in our Makita LXT and Milwaukee guides, and read how to choose a battery platform.

Note:High torque drills can twist violently if a bit jams. Use the side handle, start slow and wear eye protection. Follow the manual.

Frequently asked questions

Can Milwaukee M18 batteries fit M12 tools? No. M12 and M18 are separate systems with different packs and chargers, although some Milwaukee chargers take both.

Is Makita 36 V the same as XGT 40 V? No. Makita's 36 V tools here use two 18 V LXT packs. XGT is a separate 40 V max range with its own batteries.

Which has the better warranty? Both offer extended UK cover with registration. The FPD2 listing mentions 3 years, Makita listings 1 plus 2 years. Check current terms on each brand's UK site.

Which is better for a beginner? Either works. A beginner who also gardens may find Makita's range more useful, while M12 suits those who want small, light tools.