2023 Cordless Tools Awards Winners

Every year, cordless tools tend to overwhelm the Pro Tool Innovation Awards program. This year that extended from construction tools well into the outdoor power equipment landscape. As battery technology continues to evolve, we see consistent improvements in power density, runtime, and stability. This translates into efficiency gains that help business owners save money, time, and overhead costs.

Cordless power tools haven’t completely replaced corded tools or gas in every category, but they’re getting closer each year. If anything, the 2024 Pro Tool Innovation Award winners for Cordless Tools feature award winners and finalists who demonstrate the sheer dominance of battery-powered tools.

Winner – Batteries

SKIL PWRCORE 20™ Lithium 2.0Ah 20V USB-C Battery

What they said: 

More Power for More Projects. The SKIL PWRCORE 20™ Lithium 2.0Ah 20V USB-C Battery is backed by an innovative temperature management system that results in longer runtime and battery life. Each cell is surrounded by revolutionary phase change materials to keep the battery cool and powering through any project. The battery features two-way rapid charging via USB-C, allowing you to charge the battery or personal devices with its integrated USB-C port. Pulsing USB-C port LED lights indicate charging and discharging status, so you can quickly see if your USB-C port is active. The battery is 20 percent smaller than SKIL batteries with a USB-A port, and it powers any SKIL 20V tool in the PWRCORE 20™ lineup.

What we say: 

We’ve seen batteries that charge other devices via USB. The Skil PWRCORE 20 2.0Ah 20V USB-C battery, however, is the first we’ve seen that features two-way charging. That means you can recharge it via USB-C if you don’t have easy access to a Skil battery charger. The battery features a temperature management system that protects the pack and extends both runtime and battery life. Each cell is also surrounded by phase change materials to maintain optimal temperature. This could be a step toward eventually getting everyone’s long-coveted dream of universal battery charging.

Price: $80

For more information, click here.

Finalist


Milwaukee MXF010-0 MX FUEL™ Portable Battery Extension

What they said: 

Our MX FUEL™ Portable Battery Extension allows you to operate any MX FUEL™ Equipment while taking all of the weight of the MX FUEL™ battery pack out of your hands, delivering lighter tool weight and less fatigue on handheld equipment. The MX FUEL™ Portable Battery Extension maintains peak performance, providing the same power you’d expect from any MX FUEL™ Equipment.

Fully compatible with all MX FUEL™ batteries, this solution allows you to benefit from the most run-time by leveraging our most capable battery packs without compromising on weight and ergonomics. The 8′ tether adapter gives you the flexibility to operate hand-held equipment from the ground, a lift, a ladder, or scaffolding. The backpack harness with adjustable straps and carrying handle provides easy transport. Easily remove the backpack harness as needed for use in stationary applications. Its durable construction enables use in the toughest jobsite conditions.

What we say: 

Milwaukee MX Fuel batteries offer more power and capacity for equipment operation, but the added weight can be an issue with some tools. The MX FUEL™Portable Battery Extension reduces user fatigue by removing the battery weight from handheld tools. The Portable Battery Extension offers a lighter, more ergonomic solution with an 8-foot tether adapter whether working from the ground, a lift, or scaffolding. The adjustable backpack harness ensures easy transport, and its durable construction withstands the toughest jobsite conditions, making it an essential tool for professionals seeking improved efficiency and comfort.

Price: $499

For more information, click here.


Winner – Battery Chargers

Kress Commercial KAC844 CyberLite Charger

What they said: 

Kress Commercial now offers a lighter, more portable CyberTank option – the CyberTank Lite DC-DC Charging System powered by the new CyberLite Charger. With the CyberTank Lite DC-DC Charging System, professional landscapers can reap the benefits of the Kress Commercial CyberTank with the added advantages of increased portability due to the CyberLite Charger’s smaller size and lighter weight. The CyberTank Lite system is ideal for small crews, landscapers with limited truck or van space, and crews that cover expansive properties or need an additional boost during peak season.

Portable DC-DC charging with the CyberTank Lite System is facilitated by the CyberLite Charger, which transfers power from the new 1.5kWh CyberCapsule to 240Wh CyberPacks on-the-go. Landscapers simply need to connect the CyberCapsule to one side of the CyberLite Charger and a 240Wh CyberPack to the other to begin recharging. The CyberLite charger weighs just over 25 pounds and is roughly the size of a small backpack – or a five-gallon gas can – meaning it is portable enough to go where it is needed most, whether in the back of a truck or across a large property for fast, easy and mess-free recharging.

The Kress Commercial CyberLite Charger is IPX5-rated, meaning it can withstand drops, dust, impacts and vibrations with unwavering reliability. Additionally, the CyberLite Charger is equipped with charging status and diagnostic alerts, an air cooling system, and is warrantied for four years.

What we say: 

Kress has been a pioneer in DC-to-DC fast charging for landscapers looking to make the jump to battery-powered outdoor power equipment. The Commercial CyberLite DC-DC Charging System moves the goal lines closer by providing a more compact, affordable, and lightweight charging system. Weighing just over 25 pounds, the CyberLite Charger is easy to transport, making it ideal for small crews or those with limited space. It allows for fast, on-the-go recharging of 240Wh CyberPacks in just 12 minutes using the 1.5kWh CyberCapsule. Its rugged IPX5-rated construction ensures durability, while intuitive LED indicators provide feedback on charge progress and system diagnostics.

Price: $1000

For more information, click here.

Finalist


Winner – Combo Kits

DEWALT DCK294D1P1 2-Tool Auto Combo Kit

What they said: 

Tackle tough jobs in small spaces with DEWALT® tools designed to be compact and powerful. The Atomic™ 20V MAX* ½ in. Cordless Impact Wrench with Hog Ring Anvil provides up to 300 ft-lbs. of max fastening torque and 450 ft-lbs. of max breakaway torque with this compact power tool that offers easy maneuverability without sacrificing power. The ATOMIC™ 20V MAX* Brushless Cordless 3/8 in. Ratchet delivers 70 ft-lbs. of max torque, the ratchet helps you tighten and remove a broad range of nuts, bolts, and other fasteners of various sizes. This 2-tool combo kit also includes a 20V MAX* XR® 5.0 Ah battery, 20V MAX* XR® 2.0 Ah battery, belt hook, charger, and kit bag.

What we say: 

The DeWalt Atomic line continues to impress with 20V tools that are the size of 12V tools. The 20V MAX 1/2 in. cordless impact wrench and 3/8 in. ratchet combo kit combines two powerful and truly compact tools that are quite useful for MRO and automotive professionals. The 1/2-inch impact wrench delivers up to 300 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 450 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, while the 3/8 in. ratchet provides 70 ft-lbs of torque. The kit includes both compact and extended 20V MAX XR batteries, a charger, and a convenient kit bag.

Price: $379

For more information, click here.


Winner – Cut-Off Tools

CRAFTSMAN CMCM300B V20 BRUSHLESS RP™ 3 in. Cut-Off Tool

What they said: 

The CRAFTSMAN® V20* Brushless RP™ 3 in. Cut-Off Tool features a powerful brushless motor to deliver More Runtime and Better Performance**. This tool allows a ¾” depth of cut, and provides versatility with its adjustable shoe. The addition of an LED light and dust port adapter can help keep a bright and clean workspace during projects. The CMCM300B comes with 3 different cutoff wheels to give you the ability to cut multiple materials including tile, metal, and more. When the job is done, easily store the Cut-Off Tool alongside the rest of your CRAFTSMAN® collection on the VERSATRACK™ wall storage system (sold separately).

What we say: 

The Craftsman V20 Brushless RP 3-inch cut-off tool delivers excellent runtime and has a 3/4-inch depth of cut. The adjustable shoe, variable speed trigger, and forward/reverse functions let you adapt the tool to various materials like tile and metal. Additionally, an LED light and dust port adapter ensure a clean, well-lit workspace. Craftsman also made it easy to hang the CMCM300B on their Versatrack storage system.

Price: $119

For more information, click here.


Winner – Drills/Drivers

Hilti SF 10W-22 Cordless Drill Driver

What they said: 

Coming in strong with the most powerful and longest run time on the market, the SF 10W-22 Cordless drill driver is powered by the all-on-one Nuron battery platform. The SF 10W‑22 is the ultimate drilling solution for wood and metal. With four speeds to meet a variety of project needs, this powerful tool effortlessly handles the toughest jobs, like drilling large holes into wood and metal; cutting recesses and through holes using hole saws up to 6” diameter.

Built to last, the SF 10W-22 features a full metal chuck, brushless motor, rubber bumpers and optimized cooling to better withstand intense use under demanding jobsite conditions. Equipped with an LED light and Active Torque Control (ATC) technology, this cordless drill driver offers safer drilling by reducing the risk of injury or accidents from uncontrollable spinning. Pair it with our high-performing bits and accessories for even greater performance and productivity.

What we say: 

The Hilti SF 10W-22 cordless drill is one of the only drills on the market with four mechanical gears. That lets it tackle a wide range of tasks, from drilling large holes up to 6-inches in diameter to mixing thinset. Built to endure tough jobsite conditions, it includes a full metal chuck, brushless motor, and rubber bumpers. Active Torque Control (ATC) technology minimizes the risk of injury from kickback, while a quickly adjustable or removable handle lets you gain the leverage you need for any type of drilling.

Price: $299

For more information, click here.


Winner – Cordless Screwdrivers

DEWALT DWHT66719 14pc FLEXDRIVE™ Cordless Screwdriver

What they said: 

Make quick work of assembly applications with the FLEXDRIVE™ 14 pc. Cordless Screwdriver Set. The screwdriver features a compact design that conveniently fits in your tool pouch, with FLEXDRIVE™ 360 degree collar for seamless slide-to-drive control. With 6-stage torque adjustment and a rechargeable 2Ah integral battery, the FLEXDRIVE™ Cordless Screwdriver delivers up to 680 machine screws per charge*.

What we say: 

The DeWalt FlexDrive 14 pc. cordless screwdriver set provides a compact tool that easily stores in your tool pouch. A 6-stage torque adjustment and a rechargeable 2Ah integral battery offers enough versatility and power to drive up to 680 machine screws per charge. It also features an innovative 360-degree collar that lets you seamlessly engage manual control for when you need the most possible torque. Pros need powerful cordless drills, but a handy screwdriver like this can work wonders in place of manual tools.

Price: $90

For more information, click here.


Winner – Specialty Drills/Drivers

Hilti SBT 6-22 Cordless Drill Driver + S-BT Screw-in Studs

What they said: 

Experience high torque and extreme durability with Hilti’s specialized metal drill, the SBT 6-22 Cordless drill driver. Its powerful, brushless motor combined with the Nuron 22V battery delivers enough torque for all steps of fastening on steel, from drilling the pilot holes to tightening the grating discs or nuts. Built-in Drill Assist gives feedback when the tapered drill bit has reached the intended depth for S-BT studs, and users can complete installations more efficiently with its calibration-free performance—stopping automatically once the preset embedment depth has been reached.

To further maximize performance, Hilti created the S-BT Threaded screw-in studs, which are specifically designed to be used with the SBT 6-22. S-BT Threaded screw-in studs are available in various sizes and base materials for optimal installation in a range of use cases, including mild and highly corrosive environments. These threaded screw-in studs provide durable, reliable fastening and can do so without electric supply cords or heavy equipment for installation. Additionally, select stud models can eliminate rework on coated steel, while others are equipped with enhanced protection against static electricity. These features, among other benefits, help create safer, more efficient applications for its users.

What we say: 

The Hilti SBT 6-22 Cordless Drill Driver is specifically engineered for metal drilling and fastening tasks. The built-in Drill Assist feature ensures precision by providing feedback when the tapered drill bit reaches its maximum depth. The tool automatically stops once the preset embedment depth for the anchor is achieved. Needless to say, it makes the installation of S-BT studs much easier, letting you tackle grating discs, cable trays, strut, and multi-purpose fasteners.

Price: $479

For more information, click here.


Winner – Fans

Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Hybrid Whisper Series 20″ Air Cannon

What they said: 

The RYOBI 40V HP Brushless Hybrid WHISPER SERIES 20″ Air Cannon adds a powerful all day cooling solution to RYOBI’s line of 40V products. Utilizing 40V HP Technology to deliver more power, runtime, durability and speed utilizing brushless motors, advanced electronics and HIGH PERFORMANCE lithium technology. 3 speed settings give users ultimate control of air flow reaching up to 6,300 CFM on high that can be felt across jobsites, ball fields, warehouses and more.

Part of our WHISPER SERIES, this fan provides maximum air flow without the unnecessary noise of traditional corded fans. Customize the direction of airflow with the 180° pivoting head for any application. The durable metal construction, 6″ all-terrain wheels and multi-position handle make this fan the perfect companion for any environment. Run this fan for up to 34 hours with a RYOBI 40V 12Ah battery or utilize the hybrid technology with an extension cord to provide unlimited runtime. This 40V HP Brushless Hybrid WHISPER SERIES 20″ Air Cannon is backed by the RYOBI 3-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty and includes (1) RY40HF01 40V HP Brushless Hybrid WHISPER SERIES 20″ Air Cannon and Operator’s Manual. Battery and charger sold separately.

What we say: 

The RYOBI 40V HP Brushless Hybrid Whisper Series 20″ Air Cannon delivers up to 6,300 CFM of airflow. It has three adjustable speed settings, and the hybrid design lets it operate off both battery and 120V corded power. On battery, it provides up to 34 hours of runtime. It’s also extremely quiet—just 58 dBA on High. The metal construction and inclusion of large wheels for transport make this an all-around winner for just about any setting.

Price: $229

For more information, click here.


Winner – Battery-Powered Generators

Ampace Technology Andes 1500

What they said: 

The innovative Andes 1500 sets a new industry benchmark for portable power solutions, offering a fast full charge with Ampace’s A-Boost technology from zero to 100 percent in only 55 minutes. Its impressive longevity of up to 6,000 cycles is boasted by durable commercial-grade LFP battery cells. Ampace’s exclusive Battery Management System and advanced charging algorithms further enhance the Andes 1500’s unparalleled battery safety, reliability, and performance. Utilizing third-generation silicon carbide semiconductor material and a digital signal processor-controlled high-frequency bidirectional power conversion system, the Andes 1500 achieves an inverter efficiency of up to 95 percent, bringing five percent additional battery energy to users.

With a capacity of 1462Wh and 13 versatile ports, including USB-A, USB-C, AC, and DC options, and a 96W car socket, users can charge all the devices they need whenever and wherever. The Andes 1500 comes with a 2400W rated AC output (Surge 4800W), allowing it to power most user devices and 99 percent of appliances.

With Ampace’s innovative A-Turbo technology, the Andes 1500 exceeds expectations with an output of up to 3600W. It delivers instant peace of mind with a swift 20ms emergency power supply switch for seamless transitions during outages. Additionally, it provides stable power output even in extreme temperatures as low as -20°C/-4°F.

The Andes 1500 provides safety and durability with its high-quality, IP55-rated LFP battery cells that are UL-certified, puncture-resistant, and non-flammable. With 7 integrated protections, the intelligent safety warning algorithm can detect potential battery risks in advance, safeguarding against issues before they arise.

With the Ampace App, users can seamlessly monitor power levels, customize settings, perform firmware upgrades, navigate the ambient lights, adjust LED brightness, manage temperature, and set sleep mode.

What we say: 

The Ampace Andes 1500 features rapid charging and is built with some advanced safety features. Equipped with Ampace’s A-Boost technology, it charges from zero to 100% in just 55 minutes. Its commercial-grade LFP battery cells ensure an impressive lifespan of up to 6,000 cycles. The Andes 1500 also boasts a 2400W rated AC output (with a 3600W boost capability), providing reliable power for 99% of appliances, even in extreme temperatures. With its high inverter efficiency of 95%, intelligent safety algorithms, and versatile connectivity options, we think the Ampace Andes 1500 should meet even the most demanding user’s needs.

Price: $1,399

For more information, click here.


Winner – Battery-Powered Jobsite Generators

Milwaukee Tool 3300R ROLL-ON™ 7200W/3600W 2.5kWh Power Supply

What they said: 

Our ROLL-ON™ 7200W/3600W 2.5kWh Power Supply provides the best power for the toughest jobs, instant set-up to eliminate gas and temporary power hassles, and provides power anywhere. ROLL-ON™ includes a REDLITHIUM™ Integrated 2.5kWh Battery, which provides high power and runtime to sustain high-demanding applications. This battery is non-removable, and no additional batteries are needed. ROLL-ON™ is equipped with (2) 20A GFCI duplex outlets with circuit breakers, (1) USB-C, and (1) USB-A to provide power for multiple 20A corded tools, chargers, and sensitive electronics.

The Power Supply delivers 7200W of starting power and 3600W of running power to power tough applications. ROLL-ON™’s pure sine wave inverter protects sensitive electronics and features pass-through power for the ability to charge and discharge simultaneously. ROLL-ON™ can be instantly set up on the job, eliminating the hassles of gas or temporary power, such as heavy extension cord use, outlet overcrowding, maintenance, pull starts, and gas management, in order to maximize your productivity on the job. With the ability to be powered anywhere, ROLL-ON™ can be used from indoors to temporary outdoor use with no emissions, quiet operation, and an IP54 rating to withstand jobsite conditions.

The ROLL-ON™ is fully compatible with the PACKOUT™ Modular Storage System and includes 9.5″ All-Terrain Wheels to withstand jobsite environments such as gravel, dirt, and mud. Integrated with ONE-KEY™ technology, allowing the ability for tracking, management, and adjustable charge rate options to maximize outlet usage onsite. ROLL-ON™ includes a 3-year warranty. Compatible with the ROLL-ON™ 7200W/3600W 2.5kWh Power Supply Cover (48-11-3300) to protect against dust and debris in storage (sold separately).

What we say: 

Getting power on the jobsite isn’t always the easiest task, and loud gas generators present problems in many environments. The Milwaukee Roll-On 7200W/3600W 2.5kWh Power Supply has 7200W of starting power and 3600W of continuous power. It effectively supports high-demand applications, eliminating the need for gas or temporary power setups. The integrated 2.5kWh RedLithium Battery ensures reliable runtime, while four 120V GFCI outlets and two USB ports (A + C), ensure versatile power options. It also features a pure sine wave inverter to protect sensitive electronics, and you can both charge and discharge the Roll-On at the same time. Finally, it’s IP54-rated to handle challenging environments, and 9.5-inch all-terrain wheels help you get it on and off the jobsite.

Price: $4,499

For more information, click here.


Winner – Heat Guns

Ingersoll Rand H3111 IQV20™ Cordless Heat Gun

What they said: 

Meet the HOTTEST tool on the market. When you need heat in a hurry, the Ingersoll Rand® IQV20™ Cordless Heat Gun delivers – reaching operational temperatures up to 20% faster than the leading cordless competitors. Quickly customize to your application requirements with two airflow speeds up to 10 cfm and variable heat control settings up to 1022°F.

The H3111 also features a lightweight build for comfortable all-day use and a dual-speed slide switch for continuous, hands-free operation. Change attachments easily without handling hot parts with the twist nozzle ejector. Compatible with all Ingersoll Rand IQV20™ batteries, this tool enables portable productivity in a package that really brings the heat.

What we say: 

The Ingersoll Rand IQV20 Cordless Heat Gun reaches operational temperatures quickly. A variable heat control goes up to 1022°F, and the tool features two air speeds that accommodate a wide range of applications, from electronics to paint removal. The dual-speed slide switch enables comfortable, hands-free operation, while the twist nozzle ejector allows for safe and quick attachment changes.

Price: $129

For more information, click here.


Winner – Impact Drivers

DeWalt DCF860 20V MAX XR® Brushless 3-Speed 1/4 in. Impact Driver

What they said: 

This 20V MAX XR® 3-Speed High Torque Impact Driver is engineered for the demands of the pro with a max torque of 2,500 in-lbs., making it our highest torque impact driver†. Maximize productivity with up to 63% faster driving, a no-load speed of 0-3,800 RPM, 9 built-in LEDs, and a 3-speed mode select to power through tough jobs

What we say: 

The DeWalt 20V XR 3-speed high torque impact driver delivers up to 2,500 in-lbs. of torque—possibly the highest torque impact driver in its class. With a no-load max speed of 3,800 RPM and three selectable speed modes, it should make quick work of even the toughest fastening jobs. For lighting, DeWalt outdid itself, including not three but nine built-in LEDs around the collet for excellent visibility in low-light conditions.

Price: $199

For more information, click here.


Winner – Oscillating Multi-tools

RIDGID R86242 18V Brushless Multi-Tool

What they said: 

The RIDGID 18V Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool is the most versatile tool on the jobsite delivering the power to quickly cut and sand through any project. RIDGID’s brushless motor technology delivers maximum performance and longer runtime. This Multi-Tool delivers up to 75% faster cutting and 70% reduced vibration allowing you to accomplish more in a day with greater comfort. The three-speed selector and variable speed trigger make this Multi-Tool extremely versatile, allowing precise cutting through any material with speeds ranging from 0-20,000 OPM.

The 4° oscillation angle maximizes cutting efficiency and precision, allowing you to tackle tasks faster and with greater accuracy. Seamlessly swap accessories with the tool-free accessory change so you can move from one task to the next with ease. Perform detailed work and maneuver in confined areas as this Multi-Tool is designed with 10% more compact head.

As always, this RIDGID 18V Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool is 100% compatible with all RIDGID 18V batteries. This tool is backed by the Industry’s Best Lifetime Service Agreement, simply register within 90 days of purchase for FREE Parts, FREE Service, FOR LIFE. The R86242B includes the 18V Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool, sanding pad, sandpaper, segment blade, and plunge cut blade.

What we say: 

Ridgid increased both the speed and power of its 18V brushless oscillating multi-tool while reducing vibration by up to 70%. This lets users work more quickly and with less fatigue. The tool’s three-speed selector and variable speed trigger offer precise control, with speeds up to 20,000 OPM. The 4° oscillation angle makes for an aggressive cut, while the tool-free accessory change system decreases the time it takes to swap out blades and accessories. Backed by Ridgid’s Lifetime Service Agreement, this multi-tool seems like a great choice for professionals looking for a powerful and reliable multi-tool.

Price: $149

For more information, click here.


Winner – Circular Saws

Milwaukee 2834-21HD M18 FUEL™ 7-1/4” Circular Saw

What they said: 

Our M18 FUEL 7-1/4” Circular Saw is designed for the professional carpenter, remodeler, and general contractors who rely on high-performing and durable tools. Leveraging the latest in cordless technology, this saw offers class-leading performance, providing the power to complete more demanding applications and the cut speed to achieve greater productivity. The POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor delivers 6,000 RPM, maintaining high speed under load, providing users the ability to complete their most demanding applications efficiently. The latest in REDLINK PLUS™ Electronics ensures maximum tool performance and protection from overload, overheating, and over-discharge.

When paired with an M18 REDLITHIUM™ FORGE™ HD12.0 Battery this saw delivers 750 cuts per charge and is fully compatible with all M18 REDLITHIUM™ batteries. The ergonomic, compact, and lightweight design makes the saw a perfect solution for all-day cutting. Positive bevel detents and depth detents offer added productivity and reduce downtime. Additionally, the saw has an electric blade brake, LED work light, rafter hook, and all magnesium guards and shoes, keeping the user productive and providing the durability to handle the toughest job site conditions.

What we say: 

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 7-1/4” circular saw delivers 6,000 RPM, but it also maintains that high speed under load. Paired with an M18 RedLithium Forge HD12.0 battery, it maximizes its power and delivers up to 750 cuts per charge. The saw’s ergonomic design, 2-5/8″ max cut depth, positive bevel and depth detents, and durable magnesium components are all icing on this flagship piece of cake. Additional features like the electric blade brake, LED work light, and rafter hook just make it float higher in a sea of stiff competition.

Price: $449

For more information, click here.


Winner – Compact Speakers

Milwaukee 2955-20 M12™ Bluetooth® Speaker w/PACKOUT™ Compatibility

What they said: 

The Milwaukee 2955-20 M12™ Bluetooth® Speaker w/PACKOUT™ Compatibility includes a 3.5” woofer and high-frequency tweeter to provide CLEAR SOUND experience. AUDIO LINK allows you to play music through multiple compatible Milwaukee® devices (over 200+) creating a larger sound experience. Integrated nail hook, d-hook, and various listening orientations provide maximum JOBSITE VERSATILITY.

What we say: 

The Milwaukee 2955-20 M12 Bluetooth Speaker is Packout-compatible and mounts right to the top of any Packout toolbox. The compact speaker features both a 3.5-inch woofer and a high-frequency tweeter to deliver dynamic audio on the jobsite. Milwaukee also included its Audio Link technology to let you sync up as many as 200 compatible Milwaukee devices for seamless playback. This could, for example, spread the sound across even the largest of work sites. The speaker includes an integrated nail hook and D-hook for flexible mounting. I can’t imagine any Milwaukee tool user who isn’t going to want one or two of these as part of their daily loadout.

Price: $130

For more information, click here.


Winner – Jobsite Speakers

What they said: 

The RYOBI 18V ONE+ VERSE™ LINK™ Stereo takes studio-quality sound anywhere you go. Integrated 50W subwoofer & dual 15W midrange speakers create a more immersive listening experience by offering a wider sound stage for your listening needs. Stream from 1 speaker or for even greater sound, use the VERSE™ technology to connect any additional VERSE™ compatible speaker, no app required. Quickly & easily connect 100+ VERSE™ speakers with up to 125′ of speaker to speaker connection range.

Listen to what you want where you want with 250’ of BLUETOOTH® range & FM radio with 10 customizable presets. Select your dynamic listening experience with Hi-Fi, Bass+, Treble+, and Voice equalizer modes. Hi-Fi for best overall listening experience, Bass+ for boosting low-end frequencies, Treble+ for boosting high-end frequencies and Voice for listening to your favorite podcast or audio book. Hybrid technology allows for up to 12 hours of runtime (using a 6Ah battery) or unlimited runtime when used with an extension cord, keeping you working as long as you need.

Organize, access & transport with ease on the RYOBI LINK wall & mobile storage system with the LINK compatible base & collapsible handle. Best of all, it is part of the RYOBI ONE+ system where any 18V ONE+ battery works with any 18V ONE+ product. This 18V ONE+ VERSE™ LINK™ Stereo is backed by the RYOBI 3-year manufacturer’s warranty and includes PCL601B 18V ONE+ VERSE™ LINK™ Stereo & operator’s manuals. Battery & charger sold separately.

What we say: 

We found the Ryobi 18V Verse Link Stereo to be one of the loudest yet clear jobsite radios we’ve ever heard. An integrated 50W subwoofer and dual 15W midrange speakers deliver a full sound that carries across the jobsite. Ryobi’s Verse technology lets you connect and sync up to 100 compatible speakers and extend your listening zone up to 125 feet. The stereo includes Hi-Fi, Bass+, Treble+, and Voice EQ modes. Hybrid power gives you up to 12 hours of runtime on a battery or infinite runtime with any extension cord. You can also mount this speaker to your Link wall system or any Link-compatible Ryobi toolbox.

Price: $199

For more information, click here.


Winner – Vacuum Lifters

DeWalt DCE592B 20V Grabo Lifter

What they said: 

Grab & lift construction materials with the 20V MAX GRABO Lifter (DCE592). With a lift-load capacity of up to 265 lbs. MAX, this Lifter utilizes a powerful electric vacuum pump to lift a wide range of heavy construction materials, including glass, tile, and metal, as well as semi-porous materials like wood, drywall, concrete, and natural stones. This product is equipped with a built-in pressure sensor that automatically controls the pump that helps maintain the vacuum grip. Featuring a digital pressure gauge display, audio alarm, and a double-action button, the 20V MAX GRABO Lifter helps maximize user control during lifting, carrying, or installation applications.

What we say: 

Grabo created a truly impressive tool, and now DeWalt has made it even better with the DCE592 20V Grabo Lifter. With a lift-load capacity of up to 265 lbs., this lifter uses an onboard electric vacuum pump to secure the handle and let you lift heavy materials such as glass, tile, metal, wood, drywall, and natural stone. Because a built-in pressure sensor maintains a constant vacuum, it even works on porous materials—unlike a “suction cup” that can simply lose its seal. The digital pressure gauge display, audio alarm, and double-action button give you a sense of security against accidental release during lifting and installation. DeWalt also improved the ergonomics—and, having used the original, the tool simply looks way cooler in Yellow!

Price: $249

For more information, click here.