Every year, cordless tools represent some of the widest ranging tool innovations. And that’s the way it should be right now. After all, battery technology is improving very quickly, and there’s still no end in sight. That level of innovation includes nearly every trade, and that makes this the largest category each year. So while most of the cordless tools are here, there are some trade-specific models to check out in the other divisions as well. Here are your 2017 Pro Tool Innovation Award Winners for the Cordless Tools division!
Winner – Batteries
Dewalt Flexvolt Battery
What they said:
The FLEXVOLT battery’s ability to automatically change between two voltages gives users a serious advantage when it comes to efficiency. It’s the battery that not only powers but improves the runtime of our DEWALT 20V MAX tools, so you don’t have to invest in a whole new system. It’s the battery that brings the power of corded to a new lineup of 60V MAX and 120V MAX DEWALT tools so you can finally work on a fully cordless jobsite. The revolutionary battery will change the way work gets done.
What we say:
FlexVolt is the battery that changed the way we looked at cordless tools thanks to its ability to power both 20V Max and 60V Max tools. With a pair of batteries, you unlock 120V options as well. It’s not that current battery voltages don’t have enough power, it’s that no one has been able to harness it to get cordless table saws, 12″ miter saws, and other high-power tools to perform as well as their corded counterparts. And DeWalt keeps you using the 20V Max line with FlexVolt batteries so you’re not limited to only FlexVolt tools.
Price: $149 – $199
For more information, click here.
Finalists
- Bosch GBA18V63 CORE18V 6.3 Ah Battery – Read the Review
- Metabo 7.0Ah LiHD and 3.5Ah LiHD compact 18V Batteries
Winner – Battery Chargers
Metabo Desktop Charger Asc Multi 8, 14.4-36 V, “Air Cooled”
What they said:
Metabo’s ASC Multi 8 is the industry’s first industrial grade charger charging 8 batteries at the same time! Made of robust aluminum and designed to the hung on a wall, this is the perfect solution for heavy duty industrial sites. 8 batteries charge at the same time, which means when you are done working another battery is always ready. Featuring Metabo exclusive air-cooling technology, hot batteries can be placed on the charger and start charging rapidly while preserving the life of the battery.
It is capable of charging both 18V and 36V batteries, including Metabo’s latest 7.0Ah LiHD packs. This is the perfect solution for industrial applications when the operators need to be ready.
What we say:
We don’t often hear much about “industrial chargers”, but the fact of the matter is that industrial sites are a completely different – and tougher – environment than residential construction sites. What sets Metabo’s industrial charger apart is more than just its aluminum construction, though. It also charges up to 8 batteries simultaneously and handles 18V and/or 36V batteries. Whether it’s a one man job or a small crew, you won’t have to worry about outworking the charger’s ability to keep up.
Price: $999
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Drill/Drivers
DeWalt 20V Max XR Tool Connect 3-Speed Hammerdrill DCD997P2BT
What they said: 
The 20V MAX XR Tool Connect 3-Speed Hammerdrill (DCD997), connects to the Tool Connect app for customization and diagnostic features. The user can adjust the speed and torque for applications that require consistency and limited variability. The brightness and delay setting of the tool’s LED light is also customizable. Another tool-specific feature that can be customized, found exclusively in the 20V MAX XR Tool Connect Hammerdrill (DCD997), is Bind-Up Control. Finally, diagnostics can monitor productivity by counting the number of trigger pulls and duration of tool use. These features plus others provide important information on tool use, temperature, battery charge and more. The benefits of the Tool Connect system are far reaching. One advantage is that the tools can be set to become disabled when they’re out of range, which helps to deter theft. It also solves for common time management issues and helps make jobsite reporting convenient and accurate. This system is designed for jobsite productivity and efficiency and to save owners, tool crib managers and general contractors money due to lost or misplaced jobsite assets. In addition, the app is a secure, closed system so unauthorized accounts cannot see the whereabouts of assets.
The benefits of the Tool Connect system are far reaching. One advantage is that the tools can be set to become disabled when they’re out of range, which helps to deter theft. It also solves for common time management issues and helps make jobsite reporting convenient and accurate. This system is designed for jobsite productivity and efficiency and to save owners, tool crib managers and general contractors money due to lost or misplaced jobsite assets. In addition, the app is a secure, closed system so unauthorized accounts cannot see the whereabouts of assets.
What we say:
DeWalt’s Tools Connect system is gaining more momentum now that tools are coming out with the technology built in. Taking things up a notch from Milwaukee’s One-Key System, an internal rechargeable battery means that your tool still sends out location data even if the 20V Max battery pack is off the tool. Combining Tool Connect with Bind-Up Control makes the DeWalt DCD997 one of the most full-featured cordless drills available.
Price: $349
For more information, click here.
Finalists
- Metabo SB 18 LTX-3 BL Q I and BS 18 LTX-3 BL Q I 1/2″ 3-Speed Drill and Hammer Drill
- Hilti SF 6H-A22 ATC Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver – Read the Review
Winner – 12V Cordless Impact Drivers
Milwaukee M12 FUEL 1/4″ Hex Impact Driver 2553-22
What they said: 
Milwaukee Tool’s next generation M12 FUEL ¼” Hex Impact Driver raises the bar of performance for 12V Impact Drivers. The completely redesigned Impact Driver delivers 20% faster application speeds, outputs an industry-leading 1,300in-lbs of torque, and is over 1” shorter than competitive 12V Impact Drivers. With Milwaukee’s leading 4-mode drive control that includes TEK screw mode, this tool is the most advanced and highest performing product in its class.
What we say:
Traditionally, Milwaukee hasn’t played fair in the 12V sector with drills and impact drivers on the M12 Fuel line that perform closer to their 18V counterparts. But Milwaukee is now shrinking the size and taking a huge chunk out of the length on their latest M12 Fuel Impact Driver without sacrificing power to get it. While that’s a win on its own, the 2553 also gives you four drive control modes, including TEK screw mode to help maintain control when fastening.
Price: $169
For more information, click here.
Winner – 18V Cordless Impact Drivers
Milwaukee M18 FUEL SURGE 1/4″ Hex Hydraulic Driver Kit
What they said:
Due to their versatility, compact size and high speed, impact drivers are easily one of the most prevalent tools on the jobsite, and we continue to drive innovation in this category. From the revolutionary performance delivered through M18 FUEL in 2012, to the major
productivity enhancements delivered through ONE-KEY in early 2016, Milwaukee has always been on the forefront of fastening technology. We are excited to once again bring this category to the next level with SURGE. With the combination of M18 FUEL technologies and FLUID-DRIVE Hydraulic Powertrain, SURGE provides a better user experience through quieter operation and less vibration, while driving small to medium diameter fasteners equal to or faster than a standard impact driver.
What we say:
There are a few “hydraulic” drivers on the market now, but what Milwaukee steps ahead of the competition with the M18 Fuel Surge. They took the best of what an oil pulse driver can be on both sides of the spectrum to dial in a system that is powerful enough to cover light and medium fastening, quieter than an impact driver, and enjoys the compact design of modern impact drivers. It’s a true impact driver replacement that doesn’t trade off the reasons we reach for an impact driver in the first place.
Price: $249
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Cordless Impact Wrenches
Milwaukee M18 FUEL High Torque ½” Impact Wrench with Friction Ring Kit
What they said:
Completely redesigned, the M18 FUEL High Torque 1/2″ Impact Wrench is a full pneumatic tool replacement and will outperform all cordless competitors. With up to 1,400ft-lbs of Nut-Busting torque and the ability to remove high torque fasteners up to 2X faster than the competition, it provides unmatched productivity for users. The new tool is also over 1/2″ more compact and features Milwaukee’s industry-leading 4-Mode drive control with bolt removal mode.
What we say:
Innovation isn’t always about producing more power, but there are 1400 ft-lbs of class leading, nut busting torque available in Milwaukee’s newest M18 Fuel Impact Wrench. We know you might not necessarily need that much torque, but if you work in heavy automotive and industrial settings, there’s a good chance you eventually will. And while the tool certainly isn’t compact, we appreciate that Milwaukee still managed to drop 1/2″ from the length and give us 4 modes of operation.
Price: $449
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Ratchets
Milwaukee M12 Fuel 12-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 3/8 in. Ratchet Kit
What they said:
When we introduced our M12 Cordless Ratchets in 2011 we focused on replacing one of the most common hand tools in the world with a cordless solution that increased productivity for our users. However, a majority of professionals still used pneumatic ratchets due to the power output over the current cordless solutions. The M12 FUEL Ratchets make this a thing of the past. These new ratchets provide the industry’s first cordless replacement for a majority of pneumatic solutions. With up to 60ft-lbs of torque, the most compact head design, and the industry’s first brushless motor in a ratchet, these tools help lead the shift in the marketplace from pneumatic to cordless.
What we say:
When it comes to replacing hand tools with cordless tools, Milwaukee’s M12 lineup stands on the front edge. The original M12 ratchets probably could stand on their own for a little while longer, but Milwaukee decided to push the envelope further with brushless motors for 2017. With 60 ft.-lbs. of torque available and even better runtime and life, most mechanics, electricians, MRO crews, and plumbers can leave hand and pneumatic models back at the shop.
Price: $229
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Screwdrivers
DeWalt 20V Max XR Versa-Clutch Adjustable Torque Screwgun Kit (4.0 Ah)
What they said:
Part of the extensive DEWALT 20V MAX* system which features over 70 tools, the screwgun provides a cordless and convenient solution for applications. Whether the application is pre-fabricated metal, installations, or even deck work, the screwgun limits damage of fasteners, a common user frustration.
The 20V MAX XR Versa-ClutchTM Adjustable Torque Screwgun (DCF622) advances DEWALT’s line of cordless fastening capabilities. With a focus on ergonomics, the screwgun is balanced from front to back and protected with a rubber over-mold that helps the user grip the tool comfortably. Featuring a quick release chuck, easy clutch and depth setting, an LED work light, lock on and belt hook, the 20V MAX XR Versa-ClutchTM Adjustable Torque Screwgun (DCF622) completes a wide variety of applications on the jobsite, including post frame building and metal roofing.
What we say:
At first glance, the DeWalt DCF622 looks like a number of other cordless drywall screwguns. The fact of the matter is it’s not. For one, it’s not just built for driving drywall screws. It’s rated to handle all kinds of screwdriving tasks in metal and wood, including metal roof installation and metal to metal fastening. The 622’s given name tells us more. Officially dubbed the DeWalt 20V Max XR Versa-Clutch Adjustable Torque Screwgun, the new driver features the Versa-Cutch system.
The DeWalt DCF622 brings the idea of a stanard drill/driver clutch to its screwgun with the same goal of reducing the number of damaged fasteners. The collar twists like a drill, though it’s a lower profile front like you’d expect from this class of tool.
Price: $329
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Specialty Drill/Drivers
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Mud Mixer with 180° Handle Kit
What they said:
When you take a look at the variety of mud mixing solutions available to drywall contractors, stucco, concrete, and tile masons, not only are many hindered by cords but not a single one is a dedicated solution for the trades. With this in mind, we set out to do what others haven’t and engineered a mud mixing solution from the ground-up that’s a dedicated solution for these professionals. From speed control to better functionality, the M18 FUEL Mud Mixer with 180° Handle is the first mixer that’s been designed specifically to address the needs of the trades. Engineered to tackle heavy compounds, such as concrete, it has the performance to fully replace corded mixers. Finally, professionals have a mud mixer that adapts to the way they work – increasing their productivity and mobility like never before.
What we say:
Pros have tried to figure out exactly what the limits are when it comes to mixing with a cordless drill. And the results are pretty unanimous – you get a drill with a burned up motor. Battery technology and brushless motors are finally aligning to give us the combination of low-speed torque and runtime needed for a legitimate mixer. Going beyond simply the ability to mix, you’ll notice the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Mud Mixer also takes a stand on mixer ergonomics, offering a rotating handle setup that gives you more control in thick mixes.
Price: $349
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Cordless Stud and Joist Drills
DeWalt Flexvolt 60V Max VSR Stud And Joist Drill With E-Clutch System
What they said:
For roughing in plumbing and electrical, the DEWALT 60V MAX 1/2″ VSR Stud and Joist Drill (DCD460) is ideal in use on double, triple, four, and five 2X wood as well as engineered lumber (such as Microllam beam). Incorporating the E-Clutch System and a mechanical clutch help to keep the user in control and protect the tool. The VSR Stud and Joist Drill is a DEWALT Perform & Protect tool, which is designed to provide a high level of control without sacrificing performance. A 2-speed transmission and VSR trigger allow the user to achieve the optimal speed for the application and the unit’s brushless motor maximizes runtime and durability. Added features of the Stud and Joist Drill include an adjustable bail handle, an onboard chuck key storage, and LED work light to help illuminate the application.
What we say:
Rough ins that go through more than just a single piece of 2x material need a special drill with a ton of torque. While we’ve had these drills for quite some time, DeWalt takes things a step further by giving us an E-Clutch to protect you from bind ups that have the potential to cause serious damage.
Additionally, you get a brushless motor, and DeWalt keeps the comfortable handle form you’re used to on their drills and impact drivers on the FlexVolt Stud and Joist Drill.
Price: $349
For more information, click here
Winner – Cordless Angle Grinders
Hilti AG 600-A36 Cordless Angle Grinder
What they said:
The Hilti Cordless angle grinder AG 600-A36 delivers similar grinding performance of a 7-in corded grinder with reduced weight and improved maneuverability. Powered by the Hilti B36/5.2 CPC Li-Ion battery pack, the AG 600-A36 angle grinder has class-leading power, a slim design and is lightweight for better versatility on the job. Its built-in Active Torque Control (ATC) helps protect the user from kickback without impacting performance.
The Hilti AG 600-A36 features a brushless motor that extends the life of the tool by up to three times as long as the average grinder. It will also deliver more work per charge than other cordless angle grinders currently available because it uses batteries with Hilti CPC technology, enabling a higher charge and deeper discharge per cycle.
The angle grinder’s 5/8-in x 11-in Kwik-lock keyless flange system allows for quick blade changes and utilizes industry standard thread-on consumables such as grinding, flap, diamond and wire wheels to help drive productivity.
What we say:
If you’ve used Hilti tools for, well, anything, you know they excel in performance, ergonomics, and durability – a trio that’s pretty rare at this level. Hilti is just starting to introduce brushless motors into some of their more mainstream cordless options. That takes their already excellent performance to another level. But what really sets this grinder apart from the others is the combination of Hilti’s Active Torque Control for Safety and their Kwik-lock tool-free flange system.
Price: $899
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Glue Guns
Ryobi 18V One+ Hot Glue Gun
What they said:
RYOBI introduces the ONE+ Hot Glue Gun. This Hot Glue Gun is compatible with any RYOBI 18-Volt battery and has over 3.5 hours of runtime. With an LED on/off indicator, you’ll always know when your glue gun is in ready to use and when it is off. It is self-standing, and has a 2-finger trigger for enhanced control. This professional hot glue gun is designed to work with All-Purpose, High Strength Adhesives and more
What we say:
Ryobi’s 18V One+ Hot Glue Gun is more than just a handy craft tool around the house. It’s turned into one of the most handy cordless tools around the Pro Tool Reviews shop and nearly all the guys want one. It’s not just the fact that you’re cutting the cord on a glue gun, it’s that you’ll start finding all kinds of reasons to use it both on the jobsite and at home because it’s so darn convenient.
Price: $29.97
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Heat Guns
Milwaukee M18 Compact Heat Gun 2688-20
What they said:
Heat guns are frequently used by a wide variety of our core user groups alongside other Milwaukee cordless solutions for many critical installation processes. Current solutions are corded, large, clunky, and not optimized for the places where users need to work which vastly impacts user productivity. The M18 Compact Heat Gun provides a solution with the M18 system promise to improve productivity for professionals in the trades.
What we say:
Having a cordless heat gun is a dream come true. It could be used by Pro painters that need to get rid of small areas of lead-based paint. For any application that’s up in the air, having no cord to drag around and get caught on ladders and scaffolding is fantastic. Painters aren’t the only beneficiaries, though. Thanks to Milwaukee, Pros can now cordlessly heat shrink wiring, finish heat shrink electrical connectors, soften adhesives, thaw frozen pipes, and more!
Price: $119
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Heaters
Ridgid Brushless 18V Hybrid Forced Air Propane Heater
What they said: —
The RIDGID GEN5X Brushless 18V Hybrid Forced Air Propane Heater is another Industry first! Hybrid Technology allows the heater fan to be powered by any RIDGID 18V battery or regular extension cord giving maximum jobsite versatility. It will also keep you warm on the coldest jobsites with an output of up to 60,000 BTU! This unit is backed with the RIDGID 3-Year Limited Warranty.
What we say:
Propane heaters require two power sources – propane for the heat and electrical energy to power the fan that moves the heat out into cold spaces. Ridgid lets you either use or cut the cord with a Hybrid system that can run off a single Ridgid 18V battery. Don’t have a charged battery handy? Plug in an extension cord. You’ll be able to heat up to 1350 square feet on High. When you don’t need all the power it can produce, a 5.0 AH battery will run the 18V Hybrid Forced Air Propane Heater for 7 hours, and a 20-lb propane tank will last roughly 12 hours.
Price: $129
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Routers
Makita 18V LXT Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless Compact Router
What they said:
With Makita’s proud history in the woodworking category, particularly in the compact router space with our corded RT0701C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router, it’s extremely exciting to bring to market a true cordless compact router for the professional. The new 18V LXT Router has a compact design, durable aluminum housing, and purpose-built brushless motor that delivers the power and performance that pro’s demand. With its dust extraction capability and full range of accessories and bases, all of them having been sold with our previously-released corded compact router, the new cordless XTR01 is an easy and cost-effective way for the thousands and thousands of current Makita users to go cordless and extend the value of their current router accessory investment.
What we say:
As more power-hungry tools make the jump from corded to cordless models, woodworkers are one of the major beneficiaries. What we love about Makita’s cordless router design is the no-compromise effort to keep the power and the form factor of their 1-1/4 HP router. Why is that a big deal?
Users can move between the two routers without having to purchase a complete second set of accessories. Keep the cord when you need the runtime, drop it for cordless convenience, and get the same performance and feel with either one.
Price: $165.59
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Sanders
Ridgid Brushless 18V 3 x 18″ Belt Sander
What they said:
RIDGID introduces the GEN5X Brushless 18V 3 X 18 in. Belt Sander. The RIDGID cordless Belt Sander is built to handle the toughest tasks on any jobsite with its variable speed dial and tool-free belt release. This sander has the power of a corded unit without the hassle of a cord. And best of all it is backed by the RIDGID Lifetime Service Agreement. FREE parts, FREE service, FOR LIFE.
What we say:
Cordless finish sanders have been in play for a couple of years now, but I’m not sure anyone on our team thought the first cordless belt sanders would make their way onto the scene for another year or two. Ridgid steps up to the plate with the Gen5X Brushless Belt Sander and it made an impression on our Pros. It’s not just first step – there’s enough power combined with common features to make this a legitimate supplementary tool for any Pro’s corded model.
Price: $149
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Circular Saws
DeWalt FlexVolt 60V Max Framing Saw DCS577
What they said: 
Achieving 2-7/16” depth of the cut at 90° for use in woodcutting applications. The 60V MAX 7-1/4” Framing Saw has a bevel capacity of 53° with stops at 45° and 22.5° with its blade oriented to the left of the motor. The saw has an electronic break that helps stops the blade after the trigger is released. Featuring a durable, high-grade magnesium shoe and an efficient brushless motor, the saw achieves smooth, accurate cuts and long runtime. The 60V MAX 7-1/4” Framing Saw also includes a lower blade guard. Ideal for use in a variety of wood cutting applications such as oriented strand board (OSB), plywood, hardwoods, dimensional lumber, and flooring, for use by framers, concrete formers, carpenters, and general contractors. Available where DEWALT products are sold in fall 2017, all DEWALT high powered cordless tools will come standard with a three-year limited warranty, one-year free service contract and 90-day money-back guarantee.
What we say:
2016 and 2017 saw massive innovations when it comes to cordless circular saws and DeWalt introduced 3 new models that have turned the category on its head with the FlexVolt Circular Saw, a new 20V MaxBrushlesss Circular Saw, and now a FlexVolt Framing Saw. Technically, it’s not a true worm drive, but the new DeWalt FlexVolt Framing Saw has more power than a standard worm drive (2400 watts). You’ll need to use a diamond punch-out blade. As it stands, this promises to be one of the most powerful cordless circular saws available.
Price: $279
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Cordless Track Saws
DeWalt Flexvolt 60V Max 6-1/2″ Cordless Tracksaw
What they said:
With an efficient brushless motor, specially designed transmission, and precision ground woodworking blade to minimize deflection, the track saw delivers a finished edge just like a table saw. The Track Saw is capable of an on-track cut depth of 2-1/8” (54mm) at 90° and 1-5/8” (41mm) at 45°. Including a depth scale to accurately indicate exact depth of cut, the scale accounts for the thickness of the track from the bottom of the track down to 1/16”. With straight plunge and a parallel-link plunge mechanism, the saw can be used in a variety of ergonomic orientations. A dual-edge track allows for fast setup and long anti-splinter guard length. In addition, a rail adjustment feature allows the saw to be accurately adjusted. Other features of the saw include an anti-kickback function with integrated shoe and variable-speed motor. Without any user adjustment necessary, the anti-kickback function stops the saw from moving backwards along the rail or from climbing out of the work piece when making plunge cuts. A variable speed motor allows the user to change the speed of cut that’s best for the material type and an enclosed guard has a 90% dust extraction capability when connected to a dust extraction device designed in accordance with the relevant regulations regarding dust emission.
What we say:
DeWalt’s FlexVolt line is giving us power output we haven’t seen in cordless tools before, and it’s taking some cordless categories to new levels. While there aren’t many to choose from, cordless track saws aren’t new. But creating one with enough power to run a finish blade effectively on a precision track system is a must if you’re going to get the attention of Pro carpenters and that’s exactly what DeWalt has done. They took their already-popular track saw and made it work flawlessly with their FlexVolt 60V Max battery platform.
Price: $379
For more information, click here
Winner – Cordless Miter Saws
Ryobi 18V One+One 10 In. Brushless Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw
What they said:
Ryobi introduces the first tool in its ONE+ONE lineup: the 18-Volt 10 in. Cordless Brushless Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw. The ONE+ONE system uses 2 ONE+ 18-Volt batteries for 2X the power, for a full 36-Volts of Max Power. Not only is this saw powerful, it’s extremely portable: carry it anywhere and cut what you need without the hassle of a cord or trying to find an electrical outlet. The brushless motor provides longer runtime and longer tool life, while the dual bevel design allows you to move the saw, not the material, for faster and more accurate cuts. The sliding head provides a maximum capacity of up to a 12 in. cross cut. Extended miter ranges from 45° left to 50° right to accommodate a wide variety of cuts. A machined cast-in miter scale is also included for accurate table alignment along with adjustable EXACTLINE laser alignment system that accurately aligns cutline with the blade.
What we say:
Ryobi makes a good move with their new 10″ cordless miter saw by introducing the One+One system that uses two 18V batteries. With a clear commitment to keep their users on one battery, this system gives the extra power needed for a 10″ blade without leaving the One+ 18V battery system. Sound familiar? It should. Ryobi isn’t the first one to use this concept. But like you’d expect, Ryobi drops a lower price point on the market than other manufacturers. In this case, less than $300.
Price: $299.99
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Cordless Reciprocating Saws
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall Reciprocating Saw w/ One-Key Kit
What they said: —
It’s been nearly 65 years since Milwaukee first invented the recip saw, and since that time the SAWZALL continues to lead the industry in durability and performance. With the renowned reputation and history of the SAWZALL, coupled with Milwaukee’s expertise and leadership in cordless technology, we’re proud to deliver a new SAWZALL that gives users unbridled power and, through ONE-KEY, the ability to harness that performance for an even better experience. It’s the SAWZALL like never seen before.
What we say:
Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel Sawzall with One-Key does much more than just add tracking and a few diagnostics when it comes to the built-in technology. With the One-Key app, you can dial in the type of blade you’re using and material you’re cutting into. That will allow you to automatically configure the tool’s cutting speed to optimize the cut and extend the life of your accessories. Whether it’s nail-embedded wood or metal demo, you’ll save money on blades and keep your productivity high.
Price: $299
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Cordless Soldering Tool
Milwaukee M12 Soldering Iron 2488-20
What they said:
The M12 Soldering Iron heats quickly and maintains an optimized temperature to deliver fast application speeds. The optimized temperature also helps to prevent against over heating or damaging wires. The heat indicator notifies user then the tool is ready-to-use and safe-to-store. The M12 Soldering Iron delivers unmatched access with the 3-stop pivoting head allowing users to adapt the tool for their application and the ability to solder in confined spaces.
What we say:
A cordless soldering iron – where has this been all my life? Well, there have actually been a few running around. But they’re woefully inadequate next to Milwaukee’s M12 Soldering Iron. It’s more than just having an option that’s on Milwaukee’s deep line of 12V tools. The pivoting head allows you to work in positions where you can actually see what you’re doing since you can get your hand out of the way and into a more comfortable working position.
Price: $69
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Cutout Tool
Hilti SCO 6-A22 22V cordless cut-out tool with brushless motor
What they said:
The new Hilti Cordless cut-out tool SCO 6-A22 delivers a corded performance with cordless productivity. From 5/8″ single layer to double layer drywall conditions and all the way up to heavy-duty, abuse resistant drywall, the SCO 6-A22 cordless cut-out tool can handle it. It features two, ultra-bright, LEDs positioned around the front of the tool to illuminate base material even in dark corners. The integrated dead-man paddle trigger turns off the tool when dropped.
The Hilti Cordless cut-out tool SCO 6-A22’s optimal airflow management guides dust away from the user’s face and the tool’s motor. The tool also has a brushless motor, sealed electronics and a large heat sink to provide outstanding performance and a long life.
Part of Hilti’s new 22 V tool portfolio, the Hilti SCO 6-A22 cordless cut-out tool utilizes the latest battery cell management system that allows for a fuller charge and deeper drain so users get more work per charge — up to 20 percent more than Hilti 18 V batteries, and up to 50 percent more than other 18 V 5.0 amp hour solutions. Like all other Hilti 22 V tools, the SCO 6-A22 is backwards compatible with all Hilti 18 V batteries.
What we say:
The Hilti 22V Cordless Brushless Cut-Out Tool is cordless, brushless, and remarkably powerful. It might look a little bigger than other cut-out tools you’ve used or seen, but don’t let that dissuade you. It still feels light at 4.2 pounds, and it’s got the chops to cut through doubled-up drywall sheets and even cement board. Safety features like a dead man’s switch that brakes the bit instantly, an exhaust that blows respirable dust away from the user, and two bright LED work lights make this an excellent tool for interior finish Pros.
Price: $379
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Vacuums
RIDGID R86090B GEN5X Brushless 18V
What they said: 
The RIDGID GEN5X Brushless 18V Wet/Dry Vacuum is the strongest 18V wet/dry vacuum in the industry! The Brushless Motor delivers maximum runtime, power, and an extended motor life. This vacuum is Lifetime Service Agreement eligible meaning FREE parts, FREE service, FOR LIFE.
What we say:
The Ridgid Gen5x Brushless Handheld Vac is more than just a glorified “dust buster”. It actually has high enough suction performance to handle dry cleanup without turning to a full dust extractor. It’s also much more convenient than dragging out the big old corded unit and has the power needed to make cleanup easy. With well over 20 minutes of runtime, Pros will be able to clean up an entire work area quickly without having to switch batteries. Ergonomically, it’s a well-designed unit for cleaning up everything below the waist. The basic attachment set covers everything needed for post-work cleanup and delivers enough reach to effectively vacuum hard floors.
Price: $79.97
For more information, click here.
Winner – Jobsite Radios
RYOBI ONE+ 18V SCORE WIRELESS SPEAKER SET
What they said:
Introducing RYOBI Score. This 2-Piece set contains one P760 Primary Wireless Speaker and one P761 Secondary Wireless Speaker. Both speakers feature SKAA technology which allows up to 5 speakers to connect instantly. By connecting first with the Primary Speaker via Bluetooth, 4 other add on speakers can connect to the primary speaker instantly, using SKAA technology. These add on secondary speakers only work when the primary speaker is present. With up to 150 ft. of SKAA range, these speakers can be placed virtually anywhere in the home or on the job site and can still connect whether there is a wall separating them or not. The primary speaker also features an integrated FM tuner with 5 presets and an integrated auxiliary port for more listening options (P760 Primary Speaker ONLY). Each speaker has independent volume control so you can set your preferences as needed. Each speaker features a high-quality driver and passive radiator, so you will always receive clear, robust sound. Additionally, each speaker is equipped with a metal bar for convenient carrying, hanging, and storing of your device. Not only are these speakers compatible with any RYOBI ONE+ 18-Volt battery, they also include an AC power adaptor that allows you to use electric power as well.
What we say:
When you think of premium wireless sound systems, Ryobi might not be the first name that comes to mind. But they’ve done something really special with the Ryobi Score Wireless Speaker Set. It starts with high-quality speakers. We’re not talking high-quality jobsite speakers, but the kind of quality you want in a whole-home audio system. From there, SKAA technology combines wireless internet with Bluetooth to give you much greater range than you’ll get in a Bluetooth-only system.
Price: $199
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