Each and every year, cordless tools seem to dominate the Pro Tool Innovation Awards program. Manufacturers seem to have grasped the “steering wheel” of battery technology with both hands and show no sign of laying off the gas. As we continue to watch battery technology evolve and expand, we can’t help but find ourselves impressed with the increased runtime, power, and efficiency we get from these tools.
More and more, cordless power tools have replaced their corded electric and gas counterparts. At this point we’ve stopped wondering where the limits are—they may not be any left. In any case, this year’s 2023 Pro Tool Innovations and our Cordless Tools award winners and finalists should make an impression.
WINNER – Batteries
Kress Commercial 60V 4Ah CyberPack / KAC804
What they said:
The Kress Commercial CyberSystem ushers in the post-gas era for commercial-grade outdoor power equipment. Kress Commercial batteries, called CyberPacks, have the fastest charge time, highest power output and longest life span of any battery on the market. With Kress’ advanced battery management system, the 4Ah CyberPack charges from 0 – 80% in 5 minutes or less and from 0 – 100% in less than 8 minutes, meaning zero downtime for professionals.
Aside from being the industry’s fastest battery charge, Kress CyberPack batteries last up to 3,000 charge cycles – up to 10x more than traditional lithium-ion batteries using cylindrical cells. In terms of power, Kress CyberPack batteries supply up to 3.5kW of power to each tool’s brushless motor, which converts to approximately 4.35 Hp or roughly the same amount of power as that of a commercial-grade 64cc 2-stroke engine.
With an IPX5 rating, CyberPacks are designed to finish the job even on wet-weather days. Equipped with advanced battery communication technology, Kress CyberPacks can connect to the Kress Commercial app for advanced battery diagnostics, theft protection, fleet management and more.
What we say:
In the highly competitive battery category, there were several new innovations our voting team ha to consider. When the dust settled, Kress came away as the winner with their commercial CyberPack battery design. With an impressive 3500W output capability and outstanding 3000 charge cycle life, they’re well-built for the OPE industry. But what makes them even more special is that they can reach a full charge in just 8 minutes, solving the runtime issue for lawn care and landscaping Pro by having fresh packs ready before the ones they’re using fully deplete.
Price: $549.99
For more information, click here.
Finalist
WINNER – Battery Chargers
FLEX 1120W 4-Port Simultaneous Rapid Charger FX0451-Z
What they said:
The FLEX 1120W 4-Port Simultaneous Rapid Charger is a multitasking powerhouse, fully charging up to four batteries at the same time at 280W per port in as little as 30 minutes. Its Smart Charge Gauge indicator lights allow you to easily monitor charging levels, and the durable design of its Battery Lock System prevents accidental disconnection during recharging. The charger is compatible with select FLEX Stack Pack™ storage solutions for easy organization and transportation to and from the jobsite.
What we say:
You’d think battery chargers would be a fairly boring category, but this year’s vote was tight thanks to several outstanding options. Flex came away with the win for their 4-Port Simultaneous Charger. Each of the four ports can charge at a rate of 280 watts, and can run at that pace simultaneously. That’s better than any 4-port charger we’ve seen so far, and keeping your power tools operating without interruption for charging is the number one concern our team has for its charging needs.
Price: $289.99
For more information, click here.
Finalist
- DEWALT DWST08050 TOUGHSYSTEM 2.0 Dual Port Charger Box
- Milwaukee Tool M18 Dual Bay Simultaneous Super Charger (48-59-1815)
WINNER – Combo Kits
Milwaukee Tool M18 FUEL 2-Tool Combo Kit w/ONE-KEY 3696-22
What they said:
Evolving alongside constantly changing jobsite needs, Milwaukee® delivers the next generation of high-performance drilling and driving solutions with the introduction of their NEW M18 FUEL™ Drill and Impact. Leading as the most powerful solutions on the market, the M18 FUEL™ ½” Hammer Drill and M18 FUEL™ ¼” Hex Impact Driver deliver the fastest driving speeds and with enhanced safety.
True to all M18 FUEL™ solutions, the new M18 FUEL™ ½” Hammer Drill and M18 FUEL™ ¼” Hex Impact Driver combine three exclusive innovations – the POWERSTATE™ brushless motor, REDLITHIUM™ battery pack, and REDLINK PLUS™ intelligence – to deliver unmatched power, speed, and control.
The M18 FUEL™ ½” Hammer Drill/Driver is the most powerful drill in its class, featuring AUTOSTOP™ Control Mode to deliver enhanced safety at a most compact size. The hammer drill delivers 30% more power under load to complete holes in dense woods for greater productivity throughout the workday. With increased thermal motor capability, users are able to tackle more applications back-to-back with less bog down. The M18 FUEL™ ½” Hammer Drill/Driver is the shortest hammer drill in class at just 6.9” in length. The improved compact design allows for ultimate access without the sacrifice of power. Milwaukee delivers disruptive innovation to the drilling and driving market by being the first manufacturer to utilize machine learning combined with advanced sensors to optimize the user experience and provide enhanced safety. Utilizing data from users in the field and lab correlated data points, Milwaukee leveraged advanced machine learning to account for the numerous and challenging variables associated with drilling a hole with a ½” drill. The combination of real-life and machine data points led to the development of an industry-leading solution that shuts down the tool’s motor in order to prevent over-rotation. Furthermore, the advanced algorithm minimizes nuisances shut-downs that can hinder productivity, delivering the best reacting anti-kickback control on the market. This AUTOSTOP™ feature delivers a safer drilling experience, providing users with maximum control and reduce kickback during bind-up situations.
The new M18 FUEL™ ¼” Hex Impact Driver is the most powerful impact driver, reaching the fastest driving speeds while providing users with ultimate trigger control. This impact driver increases productivity with the ability to drive through a full range of applications with 30% more speed than other manufacturers. The POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor features greater thermal capability that allows users to complete more applications in a row without losing power or speed. The M18 FUEL™ ¼” Hex Impact Driver has an improved, compact design at only 4.47” in length to give users ultimate access with uncompromised durability and performance. As an added benefit, tri-led lighting reduces shadows and provides greater visibility for a brighter workspace. Delivering industry leading performance, the M18 FUEL™ Impact Driver is designed with ultimate trigger control that provides end-to-end control, from precise to heavy-duty applications. This feature delivers smoother acceleration to prevent damage to fasteners and material, without the sacrifice of overall power, speed, or finesse while gaining control. The impact driver combines power and best-in-class control to maximize users’ versatility and increase daily productivity.
What we say:
Milwaukee lands on top of the combo kit category thanks to the latest upgrade to the M18 Fuel Hammer Drill/Impact Driver Combo. For the hammer drill, you get outstanding power and speed in a package that seems too compact to house such performance. The addition of kickback control makes it even better. The impact driver shaves a little more length while stepping up with even more speed than the previous model.
One-Key seals the deal with customizable tool controls, inventory, tracking, and more. You’ll have a hard time finding any other combo kit that packs this much innovation into its tools.
Price: $449
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Drills/Drivers
Milwaukee Tool M18 FUEL 1/2” Hammer Drill/Drill Driver with ONE-KEY 2906-20
What they said:
The M18 FUEL™ ½” Hammer Drill/ Drill Driver with ONE-KEY™ is the most powerful solution in its class, maintaining the highest power under load. Delivering 30% more power, it provides users with less bog down when drilling to improve productivity and efficiency on the job.
At just 6.9 inches in length, this hammer drill is the shortest in its class. With a compact, ergonomic design, users are provided more access in tight spaces without the need to sacrifice power.
Milwaukee’s hammer drill also features adjustable AutoStop™ technology to deliver the best-reacting bind-up protection. Designed to prevent over-rotation in application, this new machine learning technology offers adjustable Low, Medium, and High sensitivities to best meet the desired performance, offering users the capability to create customizable RPM settings via the app.
As a complete problem-solving solution, Milwaukee’s new hammer drill is integrated with ONE-KEY™ technology, allowing users to sync the tool wirelessly with their mobile device or desktop via the free ONE-KEY™ app. Users can upload data and history to create custom reports, identify where and when the tool was last seen, and track the utilization and service intervals of the tool to maximize uptime and maintain inventory.
What we say:
Milwaukee already stepped up its hammer drill game significantly by adding kickback control in its 4th generation M18 Fuel model. In the past, when One-Key comes on board, you add customizable tools controls along with tracking, inventory, and other benefits. However, the One-Key upgrade came with a surprise this time—customizable kickback control. more than just on and off, you can adjust the sensitivity to three different levels and reduce the number of non-binding stops you experience while you’re working.
Price: $249
For more information, click here.
Finalist
WINNER – Multi-head Drills/Drivers
Milwaukee Tool M12 Installation Drill/Driver 2503-20
What they said:
Milwaukee Tool continues to drive jobsite productivity to new heights with the introduction of the M12 FUEL™ Installation Drill/Driver, developed specifically for the installation phase of construction and for MEP service contractors. The versatile new tool features 4 dedicated solutions (3/8” Chuck, 1/4″ Hex, Offset, and Right-Angle) that can attach in 16 different positions to reach uniquely challenging locations. This 4-in-1 functionality, combined with the tool’s compact size and ability to deliver up to 300 in-lbs of max torque, provides users with unrivaled access and control, and maximum productivity.
“Since the introduction of the M12™ System in 2008, our goal has always remained the same: to deliver compact and durable solutions that can access the tightest, hardest-to-reach spaces, replacing hand tools and challenging manual applications. However, despite the incredible compact size of these tools, there were still certain, confined spaces even our leading solutions couldn’t easily access – especially during installation jobs and applications that MEP service contractors commonly encounter,” said Cole Conrad, VP of Product Management. “It was clear we needed to develop a solution that pushed the boundaries of versatility to provide this unrivaled access on our M12™ System – and it needed to have the performance and control necessary to accomplish these applications productively. Thus, the M12 FUEL™ Installation Drill/Driver was borne!”
The tool is purposely designed from the ground-up to make users’ jobs easier and more productive. An inline grip at the back positions the users’ hand higher on the tool, providing better access and control in tighter spaces. In addition, the top of the tool is flat, allowing it to be placed flush against surfaces for additional access when needed. These unique features combine with the tool’s compact size and weight allowing users to maneuver for best access in hard-to-reach places. The front of the tool is also equipped with a magnetic bit holder that securely holds multiple bits, as well as a removable belt clip, enhancing jobsite productivity.
What we say:
Multi-head drills are becoming more popular thanks to their ability to fasten and drill in spaces that are really tough to get to with a traditional design. What caught our voters’ attention is Milwaukee’s physical design of the M12 Installation Drill/Driver. With a grip section directly in line with the main housing, you’re able to more comfortably get the right grip for the way you’re drilling, and its flat top lets you work right up against material more easily. Plus, the front hand guard gives you some protection against scraping up your knuckles in those tight places.
Price: $229
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Right-Angle Drills/Drivers
FLEX 24V 2-Gear 1/2″ Right Angle Drill
What they said:
Punch through stud after stud with the FLEX 24V 2-Gear 1/2” Right Angle Drill when roughing in pipe for plumbing. This ½-inch right angle drill is an ideal tool for plumbers and delivers industry-leading 2,400 inch-pounds of torque. Turbo mode unleashes maximum power and increased speed up to 1,650 RPM in Gear 2. Its magnesium gear box delivers maximum durability in a lightweight housing and anti-kickback technology lets you work with confidence. The drill’s ergonomic rubber-covered top handle provides comfort when working and a rafter hook offers easy storage when not in use.
What we say:
Right angle drills are the workhorses of rough-in jobs and their transition to cordless was a welcome improvement. FLEX is stepping up even more with a monster 2400 in-lbs of torque that won’t struggle when you’re working with large self-feed bits and hole saws. When you’re working with smaller sizes, the 1650 RPM top speed lets you cruise through faster than other brands. Kickback control finishes off the major highlights for a right angle drill that professionals can count on to do the job better and faster than ever before.
Price: $429.99
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Drills/Drivers, Screwdriver
Skil Twist 2.0 Cordless Screwdriver
What they said:
From assembling furniture and toys to tightening screws in hard-to-reach cabinets, get small jobs and repairs done quickly and comfortably with the SKIL 4V Twist 2.0 Rechargeable Screwdriver. This ergonomic electric screwdriver features a patent-pending pivoting head that locks between three positions — 0, 22.5, and 45 degrees — for improved comfort in tight spaces. It delivers up to 22 inch-pounds of torque and features three torque settings that allow you to adapt to the application at hand. Its trigger button is conveniently located for easy one-finger use, and its bright LED lights up dark spaces. The cordless screwdriver’s integrated battery features a USB-C charging port with included cable for convenient recharging.
What we say:
Skil added a new twist on the classic cordless screwdriver with a pivoting head helps you access tight areas more effectively. With its simple push button operation for forward and reverse, it’s easy to use. Skil took it s step further than its competitors with the torque settings, allowing you to use the screwdriver for nearly any project or hobby. The best part is the price. For less than a set of quality screwdrivers, you can have a far more convenient way to drive and loosen screws.
Price: $29.99
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Fans
Skil MultiVolt Brushless 4in. Clamp Fan
What they said:
The SKIL MULTIVOLT Brushless 4 In. Clamp Fan uses SKIL multivolt technology to be powered by either PWRCORE 12™ or PWRCORE 20™ batteries. It also offers a hybrid AC option to be powered via USB-C. This convenient, compact clamp fan delivers powerful airflow up to 200 CFM with airspeeds up to 11 MPH. Its industrial threaded clamp provides strong holding capacity. This cordless fan is built for tight spaces or easy on-the-go use, and its multidirectional pivoting and swiveling head can send air where you need it. It runs up to 14 hours on low when powered by a PWRCORE 20™ 2.0Ah 20-volt battery or up to 8.5 hours on low with a PWRCORE 12™ 2.0Ah 12-volt battery.
What we say:
Clamp fans are a convenient way to stay cool around your home, office, pool, or anywhere you might appreciate a gentle breeze. Skil raised the benchmark in a couple of significant ways. First, it’s capable of using a USB-C cable, PWRCore 12 battery, or PWRCore 20 battery for power. Simply pick the power source that’s most convenient for you, and it’s game on. Secondly, Skil put a brushless motor in this fan, offering more efficient operation on battery power and a longer life than brushed models. Since it’s Skil, you know it’s going to be a great value, too. With a price tag just under $30, this is a must-have addition that’s extremely affordable.
Price: $29.99
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Glue Guns
RIDGID Power Tools 18V High Temperature Glue Gun R860433
What they said:
The RIDGID 18V Professional High Temp Glue Gun reaches operating temperature in only 90 seconds, allowing users to minimize start up time and maximize productivity. It features three temperature settings up to 400° F for user control and tool versatility. The integrated temperature indicator blinks while heating up, and turns solid when it is ready to use at the desired heat. Unlike traditional stroke adjustment knobs, the new to world stroke adjustment dial allows users to precisely customize their glue output for each application to meet their specific industry needs. On the back of the tool, there’s a large window for easy glue stick access for all sticks up to a 16mm max stroke length. On top of a standard nozzle, this Professional High Temp Glue Gun includes a spreader nozzle for a flatter bead of glue and an extended precision nozzle for a smaller bead of glue to get tight and intricate spaces. For improved visibility in low-light situations, this glue gun also features an LED work light.
What we say:
Glue guns are nice to have, but cordless glue guns are where it’s at for a variety of jobs and projects. Ridgid’s latest high temp heat gun hits the 400°F mark and can be ready to go in as little as 90 seconds. What sets it apart from the pack is the output adjustment. Ridgid cleverly uses a dial on the back of the tool that adjusts the stroke length of your trigger pull, increasing or decreasing the amount of glue you’re applying and cutting back on waste. Three included tips make this a fantastic hot glue gun for all levels of users, but particularly appropriate for professional hot gluing applications.
Price: $79
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Impact Drivers
Milwaukee Tool M18 FUEL ¼” Hex Impact Driver with ONE-KEY 2957-20
What they said:
The M18 FUEL™ ¼” Hex Impact Driver with ONE-KEY™ is the most powerful in its class, providing users with the fastest driving speeds. Increasing productivity with the ability to drive through a full range of applications, this impact driver delivers 30% more speed than other manufacturers. Featuring a POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor, users can complete more applications back-to-back without losing speed or power.
The M18 FUEL™ ¼” Hex Impact Driver with ONE-KEY™ is designed with ultimate trigger control to improve application control without the need to sacrifice power while specialized tri-LED lighting provides greater visibility for a brighter workspace.
Featuring a machine learning self-tapping screw mode, this impact driver offers custom drive control via in-app customizable RPM settings to deliver ultimate customizable control in application. With integrated ONE-KEY™ technology, Milwaukee’s new impact driver provides users with advanced tool tracking capabilities, allowing customization, tracking, and management via the free ONE-KEY™ app.
Milwaukee is committed to improving productivity by providing performance-driven and trade-focused solutions so users can perform an entire day’s work on one battery system. The M18 FUEL™ ½” Hammer Drill/Driver with ONE-KEY™ and M18 FUEL™ ¼” Hex Impact Driver with ONE-KEY™ are fully compatible with the entire M18™ line, now offering more than 250 power tool solutions.
What we say:
When Milwaukee launched their 3rd generation M18 Fuel impact driver, it was tough to see how it could get much better. The design team was up to the task, though, and the 4th generation features an even shorter head profile while gaining more speed. One-Key adds the customizable controls, tracking, inventory, and more features we’ve come to appreciate. Plus, the self-tapping screw mode features a machine learning function that makes it even more effective than before.
Price: $199
For more information, click here.
Finalist
WINNER – 12V Impact Drivers
Milwaukee Tool M12 FUEL SURGE 1/4″ Hex Hydraulic Driver 2551-20
What they said:
Milwaukee Tool continues to revolutionize the tool industry with the introduction of the new M12 FUEL™ SURGE™ ¼” Hex Hydraulic Driver. As the first 12V subcompact hydraulic driver in the market, the SURGE™ uses a technology called FLUID-DRIVE™ Hydraulic Powertrain* which delivers 2X less noise and vibration and maintains peak torque longer than standard impact drivers.
The new M12 FUEL™ SURGE™ operates up to 2X quieter than standard impacts, which not only makes it an excellent option for quieter work environments such as maintenance in an occupied building or service work, but it also provides inherent hearing benefits.
Being the only subcompact hydraulic driver in the market, the compact design offers users a new solution for working in tight spaces. Its smaller size allow for it to be easily transported on a tool belt or in a backpack and allows the best access in confined workspaces.
With up to 2X less vibration, the smoother performance of SURGE™ provides more control and creates less fatigue and strain on the user. The exclusive FLUID-DRIVE™ Hydraulic Powertrain design essentially replaces the traditional hammer and anvil mechanism found in standard impacts with a hydraulic mechanism that generates the power necessary to create torque. Because there’s no metal-on-metal contact, the net result is smoother performance, with a decrease in noise and vibration, as well as longer sustained torque.
With faster driving speeds than standard impacts in certain applications, and 450 in/lbs of sustained torque, the new tool delivers unmatched performance.
What we say:
There are a handful of cordless impact drivers and we keep reaching for over and over again is the M12 Fuel Surge. Quiet and quick with less violent operation than a traditional impact driver, it’s a compact tool that keeps up with the 18V models. Even if you don’t have any other M12 tools, this is one you should add to your tool box.
Price: : $149
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Inflators
Milwaukee Tool M18 Inflator 2848-20
What they said:
Milwaukee Tool solves user frustrations with speed, accuracy and capacity when filling tires with the introduction of the M18™ Inflator. As the fastest 18-volt cordless tire inflator on the market, the tool is driven to provide unmatched performance, versatility, and the durability to survive demanding transportation maintenance applications.
As the fastest 18-volt cordless tire inflator on the market, the tool can top off 33″ light truck tires in under a minute and is equipped with TrueFill™ Technology to provide speed and accuracy. Users need quick fill speed to decrease downtime and stay productive. In addition to speed, the inflator is built with TrueFill™ Technology that includes an auto pressure check feature, and an automatic shut-off feature. The auto pressure check feature activates to ensure a tire’s targeted pressure is achieved. The automatic shut-off feature stops at selected PSI to prevent overinflation. These features allow the M18 Inflator to overcome external variables of tire inflation such as temperature, tire size, tire condition, rate of inflation, and more.
In addition to the unmatched performance, the inflator has the versatility to save up to four PSI memory presets. When the professional consistently fills tires to the same PSI, they do not have to take the time to set the PSI target with each application. Optimized for passenger, light truck, and other medium-duty tires, the professional can be more productive with less downtime.
As a portable cordless solution, the M18™ Inflator is built with more durable and versatile onboard attachments such as the inflator hose and nozzle storage, decreasing the hassle when going from job to job. Also, the inflator is built with an internal cooling mechanism to extend the tool’s life. An internal fan allows the unit to run without cooling for over 20 minutes, so the user can complete more demanding applications and move from task to task without the risk of shutdown.
What we say:
Milwaukee did a lot of things right on their latest M18 inflator. Unsurprisingly, it starts with high performance and the 2848 boasts the fastest filling time in the 18-volt class. It’s more than just speed, though, with Milwaukee’s TrueFill technology ensuring your tire gets an accurate fill every time. Built with professional productivity in mind, there are four presets you can customize and an internal cooling system ensures you can run continuously for more than 20 minutes.
Price: $169
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Inverters Over 1000W
RYOBI 18V ONE+ 1800W Power Station RYi818BG
What they said:
RYOBI introduces the all-new 18V ONE+ 1800W Power Station to its lineup of portable power solutions. With 3,000 starting watts and 1,800 running watts, this power station is the perfect, cordless portable power solution for the jobsite, tailgate, campsite, or if the power goes out. The quiet operation and zero emissions mean it is safe to power televisions, fans, refrigerators, and more indoors. Pure sine wave technology means sensitive electronic equipment such as projectors, radios, and audio/visual equipment can be safely powered by the power station.
With four types of outlets, this Power Station is ready to provide portable power for whatever kind of devices users need to recharge. (3) 120V AC 15A outlets are great for powering refrigerators, TVs, fans, and other appliances. The unit also includes (2) USB-A 12W Max outlets, (2) Fast Charge USB-A 18W Max outlets, and (2) USB-C 45W Max outlets to recharge several personal devices simultaneously.
With the combination of outlets and wattage, this power station has the ability to power a television for up to ten hours* – making it ideal for tailgates or backyard parties. In the event of a power outage, it has the ability to operate a refrigerator, television, WiFi router, and keep a mobile device topped off simultaneously. This unit can be monitored remotely via Bluetooth and the GENCONTROL app. The GENCONTROL app allows users to monitor battery levels and power consumption, reset, and shut off the unit remotely.
Best of all, this Power Station is part of the RYOBI 18V ONE+ System of over 280 cordless products that all work on the same battery. Any RYOBI 18V ONE+ lithium battery can be utilized by this Power Station, and with hot swap capability, users can conveniently change batteries without losing any power. With a capacity for up to eight 18V ONE+ lithium batteries, users can extend their runtime to meet their needs. The universal USB-C charging port enables 18V batteries to be charged via a wall adapter, car charger, or solar panel
What we say:
Ryobi 18V One+ users have been patiently waiting for a larger power supply solutions, and boy, did Ryobi deliver! with 3000 starting watts and 1800 continuous watts of pure sine wave energy, it’s much more capable than most of the integrated battery options you may be considering. Its generous suite of 120V AC, USB-A, and USB-C outlets take care of running or charging a wide range of products, and can handle several at the same time. Blutooth connectivity and Ryobi’s GENCONTROL app offer convenient monitoring and shut down right from your phone. From power outages to camping trips, Ryobi’s 18V One+ Power Station makes your batteries that much more versatile.
Price: TBA
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Inverters Under 1000W
HART 20V 1000W Max 3-in-1 Inverter Kit HGNV011VNM
What they said:
Take cordless to the next level with the HART 20V 1000W Max 3-in-1 Inverter Kit. This inverter gives the user (3) options to power their product: 12V Car Adaptor (120W total), HART 20V Battery (300W total), or Car Battery (1000W total). These 3 ways to power make it easy for the tailgater, camper, traveler, and much more. This inverter can power small appliances, TVs, lights, projectors, laptops, etc.
When using appliances such as mini-fridges and projectors, it is best recommended to connect the inverter to a car battery to reach the 1000W output. When using smaller appliances with less output, such as TVs and slow cookers, slide on your HART 20V battery and get the ultimate portability! For handheld devices like phones, laptops, and lights, feel free to power or charge from the convenience of your car using the 12V outlet.
Not only do the 3 power modes give it the ultimate portability, but it also has an integrated handle and an onboard LED Light so you can take it with you wherever. The 1000W Inverter has (2) 120V outlets, (2) USB-A outlets, (1) USB-C outlet, and a 12V Outlet with Cord. This product also comes included with car battery clamps, a 20V 2.0Ah Battery, and Charger.
What we say:
HART now has an essential road trip companion with its 3-in-1 inverter. For your typical daily needs, the inverter’s ability to use a HART 20V battery or your vehicle’s 12V outlet keep your small devices charged up and running. When you need power up to 1000 watts, you can connect directly to a 12V vehicle battery and draw the power to run small appliances. Speaking of small, you might be surprised at how compact this unit is considering the power it’s able to deliver. Whether it’s going in your daily driver or supporting your vacation on the road, you’ll easily be able to find enough space to make sure that HART goes with you.
Price: $199
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Mixers
RYOBI Power Tools 18V ONE+ HP Mud Mixer PBLMM01B
What they said:
RYOBI introduces the all-new 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 1/2″ Mud Mixer to its powerful line of ONE+ HP Brushless products. RYOBI ONE+ HP Technology delivers more power, runtime, durability, and speed utilizing brushless motors, advanced electronics, and high performance lithium technology.
Delivering up to 800 RPM, this mud mixer can mix over 30 buckets per charge* for minimal downtime. The Mud Mixer features a die-cast metal gear casing for enhanced durability and is ideal for mixing materials like grout, mud, concrete, paint, and more. The hardened steel chuck fits all standard 1/2″ paddles, allowing for a variety of uses both on the jobsite and during projects at home. With high and low gear sets on the die-cast housing and three additional speed settings on the handle (for a total of six speeds) users will have complete control while mixing different materials based on the needs of the application. Low gear is ideal for mixing heavier materials like mortar or concrete that will require more torque. High gear enables faster mixing speeds for thinner substances such as paint or grout. With an ergonomically designed handle and weighing just 7 lbs. this mixer will reduce user fatigue during long stints of use no matter the speed.
Best of all, this 1/2″ Mud Mixer is part of the RYOBI 18V ONE+ System of over 280 cordless products that all work on the same battery. Harness the power to do more with the all-new RYOBI 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 1/2″ Mud Mixer.
What we say:
Ryobi’s 18V One+ HP Brushless Mud Mixer doesn’t feel or perform like a first-generation tool. It’s strong, performs well, and is easy to use while avoiding the temptation to overcomplicate the design. If your DIY projects include mixing or you’re a budget-conscious Pro that appreciates the value of Ryobi’s brushless tools, this cordless mud mixer gets two thumbs up from our team.
Price: $199
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Oscillating Multi-tools
Milwaukee Tool M18 FUEL Oscillating Multi-Tool
What they said:
Our M18 FUEL™ Oscillating Multi-Tool generates the fastest cuts, the power for demolition, and the lowest full tool vibration. The POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor delivers 10,000 to 20,000 OPM with an aggressive 4.2-degree oscillation angle to deliver the fastest cuts over the competition. The cordless multi-tool also gives you the power to complete many demanding applications with ease, such as large cuts through hardwoods and nail-embedded wood, pushing the limits of what a multipurpose oscillating tool can do. Vibration dampening technology delivers the lowest full tool vibration, letting you make cuts more comfortably with less fatigue. REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence ensures you achieve unmatched levels of performance, protection, and compatibility. The M18 REDLITHIUM™ XC5.0 battery delivers more work per charge than competitive batteries on the market when used with the multitool. The MILWAUKEE M18 FUEL Oscillating Multi-Tool has a 10-Setting Dial with an additional Auto-Load Feature, allowing you to adjust the speed to the application. An integrated 180-degree LED light provides maximum visibility in low-light situations.
What we say:
Milwaukee revitalized their cordless oscillating tool with a pair of options, including the M18 Fuel oscillating multi-tool. On one hand, they developed a vibration control system that could finally compete with Fein. Then they stepped up performance with a 20,000 OPM top speed and aggressive 4.2° oscillating angle that produces incredibly fast cuts. If high performance is your top priority, Milwaukee has one of the most complete oscillating tools you could hope for.
Price: $149.99
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Circular Saws
SKIL PWRCORE 20 XP Brushless 7-1/4 In. Rear Handle Circular Saw
What they said:
Extreme POWER. Extreme PERFORMANCE. The SKIL PWRCORE 20™ XP Brushless 7-1/4 In. Rear Handle Circular Saw is packed with 40V power thanks to two PWRCORE 20™ 5.0Ah lithium-ion batteries with patented technology that deliver 25% longer run time and up to 600* cuts per charge! Take on demanding jobs and rip through 3X lumber in one pass with the brushless motor’s intelligent power management system, which delivers 5,300 RPM for the extreme cutting performance. Plus, get smooth and accurate cuts with the included 24 Tooth 7-1/4 In. Carbide-Tipped Blade. Take advantage of versatile features including an adaptable dust port to direct sawdust away from the work area, an LED light, built-in rafter hook and tether notch, and 0–53° bevel capacity to cut a variety of angles. All this SKIL power and performance is backed by an industry leading 5-year warranty. So, go ahead, take it to the extreme. It’s a SKILSAW.
What we say:
Skil designed the 2×20 rear handle circular saw to meet the needs of professional contractors. In our opinion, the performance and build earn a thumbs up from our testing team. Then there’s the value—$250 for a kit is awfully attractive when other kits run $100 – $200 more. If you’re looking for a way to cut the cord on your worm drive without breaking the bank, give the Skil PWRCore 20 XP rear handle circular saw a shot.
Price: $249.99
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Reciprocating Saws
Milwaukee Tool M18 FUEL SAWZALL Reciprocating Saw w/ ONE-KEY 2822-20
What they said:
Our M18 FUEL™ SAWZALL® Recip Saw is the next generation of legendary performance and durability, designed for the toughest applications on the job site. The MILWAUKEE® M18 FUEL™ SAWZALL® is the fastest cutting reciprocating saw in its class and leverages a POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor to provide you with 3,000 SPM and a 1-1/4″ stroke length for faster material removal. REDLINK™ PLUS electronics ensure maximum performance under stress as well as protection from overloading, overheating, and over-discharging. The M18™ REDLITHIUM™ XC5.0 Battery Pack (not included) delivers you up to 2.5X runtime and provides more work per charge and more work over the life of the pack than competitive batteries. The M18 FUEL™ SAWZALL® Recip Saw is designed to perform in the most demanding applications and is our most durable cordless reciprocating saw yet. A wear-resistant blade change, anti-corrosion blade clamp, and metal reinforced battery rails provide longer component life and stand up to the toughest jobsite conditions. The M18 FUEL™ SAWZALL® Recip Saw is lighter weight than the previous generation and features an adjustable shoe, integrated LED light, and a hanging hook for convenient storage on the job.
What we say:
We already hold the original Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall with One-Key in high regard thanks to its incredibly refined One-Key controls. Now it gets even better with higher performance and a blade brake—while dropping a 1/2-pound off the weight! Even if you’re not ready to jump on the One-Key train just yet, there’s a version without it that still gets the same performance boost, brake, and weight loss.
Price: $199
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Compact Speakers
DEWALT Rechargeable Mini Bluetooth Speaker DCR008
What they said:
Experience up to 14 hours of runtime* with the DEWALT DCR008 Rechargeable Mini Bluetooth® Speaker . This rugged speaker is jobsite tough with its rugged housing and an IP67 rating for dust and water protection. The carry strap & buckle allow for convenient transportation and storage. Charge the DEWALT DCR008 Rechargeable Mini Bluetooth® Speaker in as little as 2 hours using 5V 1A power supply (not included). Multiple Button Functions: include volume up, volume down, play/pause, power and charge indicator LED, Bluetooth status icon Stereo pairing: Link 2 speakers for stereo sound Fits standard cup holders (>3” diameter)
What we say:
The concept of a small form Bluetooth speaker isn’t new, but DeWalt did some things on their design that really got our attention. The carry strap makes it easy enough to hold. However, it combines with the speaker’s compact size to easily strap to your tool bag and take everywhere. Better yet, the DCR008 is designed with an IP67 rating, making it capable of handling whatever the jobsite or the weather decide to throw at it. Since the speaker has its own integrated battery, you don’t have to worry about tying up one of yours just to listen to your music while you work.
Price: $79
For more information, click here.