cheap bosch power tools brands
Bosch provides a complete line of corded power tools (like Bosch rotary hammer drills and routers), cordless tools (like 12V, 18V, and 36V Bosch cordless drills and impact wrenches), and accessories engineered to survive any jobsite and allow professionals to take control of their work. Robert Bosch Tool Corporation is a worldwide leader in the manufacturing of power tools, rotary and oscillating tools, power tool accessories, laser and optical leveling devices, and range finding tools. Ohio Power Tool is currently the only Bosch Systems Specialist (BSS) store location in Central Ohio. The BSS partnership means the Bosch location will stock a wide range of Bosch Tools and accessories, as well as provide repairs, service, financing options, and special deals on Bosch power tools. Ohio Power Tool is also the first to receive new Bosch tools and receive many other benefits exclusive to the BSS premier tool dealers. Bosch is leading the way in power tool innovations. Check back regularly to see all the new products at Ohio Power Tool and find the Bosch power tool that"s right for the job.
When shopping for the best corded and cordless power tools for your home DIY project or professional jobsite, look no further than CPO Outlets for the best new and reconditioned tools selection at unbeatable prices. We offer thousands of power tools from bestselling brands such as DeWALT, Makita, Bosch, Jet, Metabo, Sawstop, Porter Cable, Skil, Craftsman, Flex, Black & Decker, GearWrench, Edwards and more.
With so many options to choose from, consider the ideal tool platform and battery voltage for your project. 12V tools are ideal for all-purpose use and great for tackling common projects around the house and are also a great option for tool beginners. If you"re looking for more power & flexibility or have more demanding projects, an 18V tool may be a better fit. Additionally, if you already own power tools, consider power tools from your existing tool brands and battery platform, as batteries are not compatible across different brands.
CPO Outlets offers wide range of power tools such as drills, impact wrenches, saws & table saws, nailers & staplers, grinders, woodworking tools, metalworking tools, concrete tools, combo kits as well as power tool accessories. Whether you"re doing a home repair, assembling furniture, or building a storage shelf, CPO has the power tools you need to make tackling the job a cinch.
When considering corded vs cordless, consider whether you need power or convenience. A cordless drill is convenient for projects when you"re required to be mobile, like on a jobsite, or don"t have a power outlet nearby, but may not be able to hold enough power to sustain long-term use - be sure to have a back-up battery on hand. Alternatively, consider opting for a corded drill for continuous use or more demanding tasks. Corded electrical power tools are great when you need continuous power consumption or have larger tasks, like cutting larger pieces of wood.
No matter the task, if you"re looking for high-quality, reliable power tools, CPO Outlets has what you need at the best prices. Check out our deal zone for current sales & promotions or shop our reconditioned power tools and save even more for the same quality performance. We offer always fast shipping with most items delivered to your door in 2 days, and orders over $99 qualify for free shipping.
Welcome to Bosch Blue. This is the website of the professional blue power tools from Bosch – for trade and industry professionals. The Power Tools Division of the Bosch Group is the world market leader for power tools and power tool accessories. The core success factors are innovative strength and pace of innovation. As a professional, a lot is expected of you: speed, reliability, competence, endurance – in short: excellent results. So isn"t it only fair to demand the same from your power tools? The professional blue power tools from Bosch are engineered for excellence – meeting the highest standards in speed, precision and robustness for great, professional work results. Professional blue power tools from Bosch – For professionals from professionals.
Bosch Tools typically pack a punch, and their drilling and cutting accessories are second to none. The brand provides powerful and advanced cordless products—particularly for concrete drilling. Their drills and impact drivers remain one of our favorite brands to use here in the shop. From the Bosch Hell-ion Turbo charger to their advanced X-Lock grinder system, the brand constantly innovates. Because of this, we keep our eyes open for Bosch tool deals that offer dramatic discounts for our tradesmen readers.
Bosch doesn’t always offer the best tool deals and discounts so you have to pay attention and watch the calendar. They do a lot with reconditioned tools, but they’re also quick to discount select tools by $50 or more.
They have special deals on their 18V cordless power tools, and we’ve even seen $50 off select concrete tools. Most of those involve corded rotary hammers—but still great discounts on some key Bosch tools. Aside from that, check out deals on lasers, compact 12V tools, and reconditioned products.
When shopping for the best Bosch tool deals, remember this brand offers some incredibly advanced Core 18V Batteries. They also have some of the fastest charge times in the industry, and the Bosch StarLockMax revolutionized oscillating multi-tools. While other brands engage in more advertising, Bosch continues to make tools that present compelling solutions for tradesmen working construction. Getting good deals on their tools just makes it that much better.
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Readers have been asking the same question in different ways. Dewalt, Milwaukee, Ryobi, Flex, Metabo HPT, Hilti, Kobalt, Hercules, and even Makita have all been launching new cordless power tools, technologies, and accessories. What has Bosch Tools been up to?
I haven’t heard from Bosch Tools USA about any new tools in a very long while, but the brand has been actively promoting their products via consumer newsletter emails and ads sprinkled around social media.
The performance comes from the core batteries. Testing in the past has been done with the older generation batteries. Now we use the CORE batteries which are more efficient with the power output. This gives us the small power increase.
I didn’t understand at the time – and must admit I still don’t. The new model provides “even more power to get the job done” because “testing in the past has been done with the older generation batteries.”
There are two other tools included in this campaign – their proprietary X-lock grinder accessory interface that launched nearly 4 years ago, and a cordless drill.
A lot has been happening in the professional cordless power tool space: Milwaukee is advertising many new cordless power tools (see the Pipeline 2022 launches!), Dewalt is promoting their next-gen PowerStack batteries, Flex has an entire line of next-gen Stacked Lithium batteries, Hilti launched their new Nuron cordless platform, Makita has… XGT?, and more.
They recently quietly introduced their first 12V Max cordless power tool in a very long time – a compact angle grinder. The same exact – or nearly identical – tool launched in Europe 6-1/2 years earlier.
Bosch Tools USA has been focusing very heavily on their 2-in-1 impact, which launched in 2021. We’re about to enter 2023, do we only have more of the same to look forward to?
When you are buying power tools, it makes sense to choose a brand and stick with them. You do not have to worry about different types of batteries, different ways of doing things, and all the other hassles that come into play when you mix and match tools.
Before we jump into listing the best brands, I want to point out that the brand order is not ranked. The reality is that there is no one size that fits all. No one brand contains all of the best power tools, so what you find amazing in one brand, your neighbor is going to find in another.
The power tool industry is big and complex. One brand might make the best drill while the other might make the best jigsaw. Also, the power tool lineup within each brand can get very granular, because most brands want to cover the widest market possible.
I did some major renovations in and around the house recently, so I had plenty of opportunities to talk with various contractors about the tools of their trade.
The homeowners I talked to are my DIY friends and neighbors. I’ve heard them say that they’ve either inherited their tools, bought them on sale, or they did thorough research before buying them.
But, generally speaking, each brand on this list has at least 2 years of wear and tear coverage on their tools. If you want to get deeper, I have included a link to each brand’s website, where you can also find their warranty pages.
As for websites, there isn’t much research available, but there is one that stands out. It has recent research conducted by Lifestory Research on the most trusted power tool brands in America.
You may find tools aimed at homeowners being used on worksites, and vice-versa. Some companies create high-quality tools in both markets, while some fall short and others create amazing one-offs.
The tool market is competitive, with new companies entering the market all the time, but our recommended brands have risen to the top with years of experience, high-quality tools, and expert customer service.
Now, they offer construction tools, outdoor equipment, and more. They have amassed a large line of cordless tools, leading the way with a cordless revolution.
They also have corded, gas-powered, and multiple battery-powered tools. Their One-Key platform allows them to manage compatibility and maintenance across all of their battery-powered tools.
They make some of the best tools for electricians, HVAC technicians, and automotive workers. They are popular with professional contractors, and suitable for the most rugged and tough jobs.
A well-known brand that was established in 1915, but was not recognizable as the power-tool company that we know today until 1958. First came the planer, then drills, followed by everything else.
You will find Makita tools on construction sites and in workshops around the world. Their power tools are solid, and they also offer yard equipment and a range of pneumatic tools.
They even make a cordless coffee maker that you can use on job sites. And if you want your tools to be powerful and stylish, you can reach for the LXT sub-compact brushless series.
Once based in Japan, the tools are now manufactured all around the world without any drop in quality. A favorite on job sites, their power tools are complemented by extra convenience equipment such as fans and radios.
Raymond E. DeWalt invented the radial arm saw in 1923. The result of that is the multinational company that is around today. They are one of the original power tool manufacturers.
The success led to the acquisition of the company by Black & Decker in 1960, though there was a bleak period for a few decades as people saw Black & Decker as an amateur power tool company.
DeWalt manufactures hundreds of different power tools, with corded and cordless options. When they took over ELU, they began manufacturing German woodworking tools too.
The combination of hand tools and power tools became popular with contractors, and their reputation has grown. They have a wide variety of tools, accessories, stands, tool boxes, yard equipment, job site aids, and more. Some say that they have the best carpentry and concrete tools on the market.
When it comes to batteries, they have a range. The company manufactures the standard 12V and 18V batteries for compact tools, along with 20V and 40V batteries for outdoor equipment.
However, where they stand apart from the competition is with their FLEXVOLT technology. Depending on what tool the FLEXVOLT battery is attached to, it will switch between 20V and 60V, powering almost anything. Very cool!
Festool market themselves on quality. Their tools may cost you a little more than the competition, but you are paying for excellence. The engineering of the tools is incredible, they provide superior customer service, and they pride themselves on ease of use and portability.
The dust collection system alone is worth buying the tools that generate a lot of dust, such as sanders and routers. This makes the brand especially popular with contractors and carpenters. The dust-collection system is integrated into the needed tools, and it gives professionals the confidence to go into people’s homes and not leave a mess.
The German company builds tools that are worth the money. If you need to do a professional job, or you have a lot of jobs to attend to, then the tools should be one of your top choices.
You would expect a tool company to stand out based on the quality of their tools but, while Bosch does make excellent tools, that is overshadowed by the fact that they are 90% owned by a charitable organization, Robert Bosch Stiftung. They are a company that cares.
That technology does come at a price. Bosch tools are usually more expensive than their rivals, but you are paying for the extra quality. They are a favorite among serious amateurs, semi-pros, and professionals. If you need to do the job well, Bosch will help you.
They have a range of tools that not many other companies can compete with, and their tools are used for heavy-duty jobs, such as skyscraper construction and bridge repair.
They also pride themselves on aftercare. They support their customers with excellent customer service, solutions, and accessories. Their large sales force is also available to visit job sites to aid in problem-solving and to deliver tools and accessories as quickly as possible.
If you check with any handyman or contractor, you will likely find that they use Ridgid tools on their job sites. Their line of power tools may be limited, but they are still worth mentioning. They mainly produce drills, impact drivers, and saws.
Their limited range of power tools does mean that they do not have as advanced battery technology as other companies, but they compensate for that by offering one of the best warranties on the market.
As we mentioned before, a lengthy warranty often means complete trust in the tools, and tools that are built to last. This is the case with Ridgid. They may not have the biggest line of tools, but they do guarantee quality.
The following brands are largely focused on hobbyists, homeowners, and semi-pros, but sometimes you’ll see these power tools used by professionals as well.
The Ryobi company is owned by Techtronic Industries, just like Milwaukee. You could see the two power tool manufacturers as two arms of the same company, Milwaukee servicing professionals and contractors and Ryobi focusing more on homeowners and semi-professionals.
They have a variety of tools, but you may be most familiar with one of them, even if you do not know that it is a Craftsman tool. Everyone knows the Weedwhacker brand, and these string trimmers are used by a lot of people. Craftsman owns the Weedwhacker brand, along with manufacturing many other gas-powered, battery-powered, and corded outdoor and yard equipment.
They also pride themselves on their Versa System, a system for organizing tools, equipment, and accessories within a workshop. With this system, they are firmly marketing themselves towards hobbyists and homeowners.
Almost everyone knows Black+Decker. Founded in 1910, the company produces power tools for professionals and amateurs. It made its name in 1917 by inventing the portable electric drill and has gone from strength to strength, weathering some storms in its time.
They focus on the most commonly used tools, drills, sanders, and screwdrivers, and put a lot of energy into nailing (excuse the pun) those few select tools.
They do manufacture other tools, and you will find specialized tools in their range. From accessories to hand tools, they manufacture pretty much anything, though their core focus is on the most popular tools.
They are often compared to Ryobi, and have a similar quality, though Ryobi has been in the power tool market for longer and has more tools in its lineup.
Their new XTR lineup of cordless power tools is the most powerful yet. It offers 50% better performance than before and its meant for serious DIY’ers and semi-professionals. It also offers exceptional value for money.
A new company on the scene, they are sold through Walmart, and the power and money that Walmart has to back the tools are phenomenal, allowing them to hit the ground running.
Along with the affordability, you have convenience. As they are sold through Walmart, you can go into any store to find the tools, buy new accessories, or find replacements. And, with Walmarts renowned return policy, there is less risk.
Founded in 1926 in New Orleans, the tool company is now based in Stuttgart after being acquired by the German company Boschin 1996. More recently they have been acquired by Chevron, a Chinese power tool manufacturer.
Skil is the Skil in Skilsaw. The Skilsaw Model 77 was introduced in 1937, and a power-tool company was built around it. Many American houses and buildings were built using the Skilsaw.
Milwaukee power tools are the most searched for brand with 13,500 searches per month. DeWalt (9,900) and Ridgid (7,700) follow closely in second and third place. Ryobi is the go-to brand for many homeowners, which is also apparent from the search volume (5,700). Probably the biggest surprise on the list is Hart (4,000) which is gaining rapidly in popularity.
As expected, Ryobi has a lead over the competition; however, it’s surprising to see how much HART Tools has gained in popularity. They seem to have overtaken long-time and established brands like Kobalt and Skil and are now close behind Craftsman.
There are many power tool companies out there, both for professionals and homeowners. There is a reason why the recognizable names are the ones who have mostly been around for a long time. With years of experience and feedback, they have been able to mold and shape their companies, driving them forward in a competitive industry.
As we said at the beginning, there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to power tool brands, but there is a brand out there that is right for you. All you have to do is choose the one that fits your needs.
The Power Tools division of the Bosch Group is the world market leader for portable electric power tools and power tool accessories. The professional blue power tools and accessories from Bosch are developed for professionals. Bosch creates new innovations in power tools and accessories by working intensively with professionals who use power tools as part of their everyday work.
If you"re stuck on the kind of drill to buy, the answer can be complex. For starters, if you own other cordless tools, the best cordless drill for you is the one you could share batteries with. That"s a great reason to stick with the brand and voltage you already own, unless you specifically need different features or you"re looking to switch brands. Otherwise, assuming this is your first cordless tool, it comes down to two main factors -- performance expectation and price. If you"re only assembling Ikea furniture and hanging shelves, a 12-volt drill is all you need. If you"re planning on getting into more substantial work, longer use times or light construction, you"re better off with an 18-volt.
As far as price is concerned, you will typically pay more for 18- over 12-volt power tools, as well for brushless versions over brushed. But the price gap between 12- and 18-volt, and between brushed and brushless, continues to shrink. Soon, unless you need a smaller, lighter or less powerful tool, there will likely be no reason to choose 12-volt over 18-volt. Hopefully you"ll still at least have the option for the lightweight drill model.
This list only covers 12- or 18-volt drills with brushed motors. Brushed motors are the traditional power tool design that have physical carbon brushes that maintain contact with the part of the motor that spins. That means the brushes see constant friction when the drill is in use and will eventually wear out. That friction generates a fair amount of heat, leading to as much as a 20% loss in torque efficiency (energy that is transformed to rotational force) compared with brushless motors. Brushless motors work primarily by way of magnets and have no physical, friction-inducing parts. This efficiency gain gets you better performance and drilling power over the course of a battery charge compared with the same drill in a brushed model.
The trick is that you might need to pay extra for a drill with a brushless motor. For example, I tested the Milwaukee brushed motor Model 2606-22CT, which costs $179. The brushless version, Model 2801-22CT, normally costs $20 more. Holiday deals might narrow that gap (or even make some 18-volt drills cheaper than their 12-volt counterparts), so keep an eye out if you see a good power tool deal. I"ll update this list with brushless drill tests on my next pass.
That said, in rare cases, some drills can fail at performing some of the basic functionality you might expect. Keep reading and you"ll be sure to avoid those pitfalls and end up with the cordless power drill that will best suit your needs. I took 16 of the most popular brushed cordless drills, bored over 200 holes and seated over 4,000 screws over a few days to lock down performance expectations.
Although it"s the most expensive 18-volt drill, this Milwaukee drill has tons of drilling power. It crushed the competition in our high-torque tests, completing 20% more bored holes than the second-place finisher. At 500 inch-pounds, no other drill has a higher maximum torque rating. It has one of the better warranties, with five years for the tool itself, and two years for the battery. This cordless drill kit includes an M18 compact half-inch drill driver and two M18 lithium-ion batteries.
This category was almost too close to call. The Ryobi"s performance, drilling power and specs were nearly identical to the Bosch. So it boiled down to how each drill felt during the performance tests. This Ryobi felt like it could be the most powerful drill on the entire list, while the Bosch just felt weak and had trouble breaking through the two-by-fours during the high-torque bore test. Although the Bosch scored second overall in the low torque test and third in high torque, Ryobi took first in low torque. Combined with the overall feel of the two drills, it puts the Ryobi drill kit as the value pick.
All of the drills I tested are brushed models that use a 12- or 18-volt battery. You can find different bundles online and in your local big-box retailer, some with extra batteries, some with only one battery and some that are even packaged with other power tools or bare tools only. To keep the pricing comparison as level as possible, each of these includes the drill, a charger, one (or two) batteries and, in most cases, some kind of accessory to carry everything around.
Running the low-torque tests takes longer than the high-torque tests, so there"s more time to get the feel of the tools themselves. Generally speaking, the drills all feel like you"d expect, but there were a couple of features that stood out. On the 18-volt DeWalt, the hand grip feels small. This may actually be a benefit for some people, but for me, it was a little off-putting. I was also not a fan of the trigger on the 18-volt Ridgid. It felt like I had to pull the trigger farther back to reach max power than on other drills. This, over time, leads to a little extra hand cramping. Not ideal if you"re planning on using it for hours at a time.
Another feature, which may not necessarily be a decision-maker for you, is the battery-release mechanism. The front-tab has become the standard and works better on some models than others. All of the battery-powered tools I own personally are front-tabs. I"ve grown to really like the side tab release, however. It"s a more natural feel and tends to be an easier release as well. In the 18-volt drills listed, Ridgid, Milwaukee and Ryobi all have side tab releases. For me, Ridgid"s design feels the most comfortable.
The DeWalt DCD701F2 12-volt drill combines power, comfort, and convenience in a way that none of the other tested drills do. In our tests, it bored 30 1-inch holes through a 2-by-10 on a single battery charge—results that show it can handle just about anything within the four walls of a home, and even the occasional foray into more aggressive work such as a small decking repair. The DeWalt 12-volt’s power is on a par with that of some of the other drills we looked at, but it particularly excels in ergonomics and convenience features. The molded handle seems to account for every curve and bulge of the hand, making this drill the most comfortable we’ve ever held. The battery is designed so that the drill can stand upright when not in use (other drills, like the runner-up Bosch, need to be placed on their side), and the LED is positioned such that it illuminates the drill front better than most. The DCD701F2 also comes with a nice belt hook, and the battery gauge is on each battery rather than on the tool, so you can check batteries without having to insert them into the drill.
If the DeWalt 12-volt is overpriced or unavailable, we also like the Bosch PS31-2A 12V Max 3/8 In. Drill/Driver Kit. This 12-volt Bosch couldn’t drill as many 1-inch holes on a single charge as the DeWalt in our tests, but it still has more than enough power for general home tasks. In our own measurements, we found it to be about 5 ounces lighter than the DeWalt 12-volt, but it feels heavier because the balance isn’t as good. The Bosch battery slides up into the handle, making the grip fatter and not as contoured as the DeWalt’s. The LED also doesn’t illuminate as well.
If you take on projects that require drilling lots of holes and sinking long screws, we recommend stepping up to the DeWalt DCD791D2 20V Max XR Li-Ion Brushless Compact Drill/Driver Kit. This is a larger, 20-volt drill, but it shares all of the most important characteristics of the smaller, 12-volt DeWalt: It’s very powerful and extremely comfortable to hold and use, and the little convenience features, such as the belt hook and the case, are spot-on. Compared with our 12-volt pick, this larger drill completes tougher jobs much faster, doing the same work in less than half the time, with a battery that lasts longer. The well-positioned LED can also be switched on independently of the drill, a unique feature that makes it a rudimentary flashlight, which could come in handy in nearly any crawl space. For around-the-house tasks, the added speed and power are often unnecessary. But for more production-oriented work, such as putting down decking or building a garden shed, they make a noticeable difference.
Nearly identical to the 20-volt DeWalt (with minor compromises), this model is recommended if you see it at a lower price, or if you already use Milwaukee’s cordless tools.
If the DeWalt 20-volt drill is not available, we also like the 18-volt Milwaukee 2801-22CT M18 1/2 in. Compact Brushless Drill/Driver Kit. It’s very similar to the DeWalt DCD791D2 in power, ergonomics, and overall design (18- and 20-volt tools are the same—the difference is just marketing). The negatives: It has only a single-setting light that turns on and off with the drill, and the case has hardly any room for drill or driver bits. Those are minor points at best, however, so if you’re already invested in Milwaukee’s cordless tools, or if you find this drill at a lower price than the DeWalt, go for it.
The small 20-volt DeWalt Atomic offers more power than the 12-volt, but not as much as the larger 20-volt. It’s a good choice for a DIYer to buy into DeWalt’s expansive 20-volt line.
We think that most people will be happy with the power and size of the DeWalt 12-volt, but if you’re looking for a little more, yet you’re hesitant about the size and weight of the larger 20-volt DeWalt, we recommend the DeWalt DCD708C2 Atomic 20V Max Li-ion Brushless Compact Drill/Driver Kit, which splits the difference between the two. This is a relatively new category of tool, usually referred to as subcompacts (although DeWalt refers to theirs as simply “compact”), that is closer to the size of a 12-volt, yet it uses the 20-volt batteries. Combined, this gives it power and size right between the two classes: The tool has enough power for more substantial DIY projects such as light framing, but it’s not as streamlined and easy to use as the 12-volt. We see it as a good drill for someone starting out on the DIY road who may not want to deal with the weight and bulk of the larger drills. Along the same lines, the Atomic is part of DeWalt’s extremely large 20-volt line of tools, all with compatible batteries, so it’s a nice place to start if you expect to grow your collection of cordless tools in the future.
In the past decade, cordless drills have become more powerful, lighter, and energy-efficient, making corded drills practically obsolete. These improvements in cordless drills come thanks to advancements in lithium-ion battery technology and the introduction of brushless motors, which are more powerful despite requiring less energy. And the changes aren’t unique to cordless drills; they’ve occurred across many of the power tools we test.
“A more recent trend we’re seeing is interchangeable batteries that work among a brand’s entire suite of power tools,” says Courtney Pennicooke, CR’s market analyst for cordless drills. “So you can use the same batteries for your drill, chainsaw, and string trimmer. You can adjust the voltage to match the project you’re working on and save money by buying bare tools to complete your set.”
The voltage of your drill dictates the size of the job it can tackle. Higher-voltage drills, which we call heavy-duty in our ratings, have 18 to 20 volts or more of power. They’re typically heavier but also more capable of tackling difficult tasks like boring a large hole through studs or joists, or driving hundreds of screws on a single battery charge, which is what you’d want if you were building a deck.
Lower-voltage drills, which we call general use drills in our ratings, typically use about 12 volts. They offer plenty of power for most household tasks, like hanging a shelf or tightening screws, and they weigh less, too. But despite the capabilities of these smaller drills, most people prefer larger, heavy-duty options. In fact, according to a recent CR member survey, two-thirds of those who own cordless drills have a model that’s 18 volts or more.
For our cordless drill tests, we narrow down the field to the most widely available models and run them through a series of tests in our lab, where we use a device called a dynamometer that measures torque under different loads. We translate those readings into scores for power, speed, and run time. We also incorporate ratings for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction based on data from CR’s member surveys.
Many construction workers and woodworkers swear by specific brands. It’s daunting to step out of your comfort zone and try something new, especially if you could be left with a product that ruins your project. If you are looking to expand your horizons or want to find out some of the best power tool brands, our experts have created a comprehensive review.
Makita is the first power tool brand on our team’s list not for its higher price tag, but for its quality construction. Makita is often associated with durability and top quality when it comes to their power tools and has quickly become one of the most trusted power tool brands.
Established in 1915, it’s also one of the most long-standing names in construction tools. Although the brand was around for over a century, it wasn’t until 1958 when they really made a splash in the power tool business.
They stunned the market with their exceptional planer, and then made their way to power drills and then branched out to all the different woodworking tools we see today.
From power tools, corded tools and even a coffee maker you can keep with you on-site, Makita has become synonymous with versatility and quality. Especially known for their cordless platform, Makita’s products are now available worldwide and have become a favorite professional brand for many. 2. Dewalt Tools/Black & Decker Brand
Let’s start with Dewalt first. It is one of the oldest and best-known tool makers on the market. Their claim to fame was thanks to the radial arm saw, invented by Raymond E. Dewalt, the namesake of the company. With all eyes on the brand, it captured the attention of what was deemed an amateur power tool brand, Black & Decker, which eventually acquired Dewalt and rebranded and created more innovative tools.
From there, Black & Decker has become a household name in itself, making not only power tools and also specialized tools, but they also created everyday products such as a portable electric drill and many other tools.
Dewalt on the other hand focused more on the power tool industry and created cordless power tools and corded options. In fact, Dewalt even manufactures its own range of battery technology meant for their cordless options. Instead of becoming one brand with one aim, Dewalt and Black & Decker are focused on different areas of the power tool market. 3. Milwaukee Tools
Milwaukee is another brand our team of professionals believe has made headway manufacturing power tools. Milwaukee, by no surprise, was first established in Wisconsin, back in 1924. To this day, the brand has been through its fair share of acquisitions and in 2005 has made a more permanent home under the umbrella of Techtonic, which also owns Ryobi and the famed Hoover brands.
As a power tool company, Milwaukee’s headlining product at the time was their lightweight one-handed drill that reduced operator fatigue. Of course, they have other power tools as well, but the Hole Shooter is when we can pinpoint their rapid rise to fame.
Now, when we take a look at the mark Milwaukee has made, we see a long line of the most innovative tools including ones meant for construction in both corded and cordless options. Milwaukee is our experts’ choice for diversity as they also offer gas-powered tools, impact drivers and even outdoor equipment!
Another characteristic of the brand that our experts really appreciated is the One Key system. This allows maximum compatibility within the tool company for all their products. Milwaukee has consistently been the go-to for the plumbing and HVAC industries. 4. Ridgid Tools
Speaking of plumbing and HVAC, Ridgid is also a popular brand among these industries. Not only do they provide the best value, but they are the best plumbing tool manufacturer in the world. Starting in Ohio in 1923, Ridgid owes their success to their high-quality tools, especially the legendary red pipe wrench.
Rather than power tools, Ridgid focuses on hand tools. Next time your professional contractor comes over, you will definitely be able to find at least one Ridgid tool in his toolbox.
Our experts still feel their line of power tools deserves an honorable mention as our team has seen and used their miter saws and table saws and felt that they performed just as well as other brands. 5. Bosch Tools
Bosch Tools is another one of the veteran brands our experts have on the list. The company was first conceptualized and founded in 1886 by Robert Bosch. Like the other brands mentioned, Bosch is also known to produce high-quality tools, but their main characteristic is the fact that they are mostly owned by a charitable foundation.
Having been around for so long, it’s no surprise that Bosch finds a place among the most known brands on the market. To have become one of the most trusted power tool brands, Bosch has time and time again created top-quality and reliable power tools.
If you are looking for a brand that creates high-quality cordless power tools, then our team stands fully behind Bosch. They perhaps have the most trusted battery platform and the widest selection of cordless tools all powered by industry-leading battery technology.
As you would expect, Bosch tools do charge a premium for its cordless tools, but knowing what you are getting will last longer than its rivals, perform better and help a cause, the price is worth it. 6. Craftsman Tools/Black & Decker
Craftsman is yet another brand that Black & Decker has acquired over the years. Its history starts in 1927 when Sears [1] first founded the company. Since the acquisition, Craftsman along with Dewalt has helped Black & Decker conquer the power tool industry and they still gave Sears the option to use existing suppliers for manufacturing.
You may find the Craftsman name on the side of some of the best power tools on the market, but our experts believe the WeedWhacker deserves an honorable mention. Craftsman owns the WeedWhacker brand and also manufactures a wide array of gas, corded and cordless power tool options plus outdoor equipment and yard equipment.
Craftsman also boasts the Versa System, which is a system for organizing tools. You won’t have to worry about having compact tools just to keep your workspace neat. With this system, Craftsman is the preferred brand for homeowner tools and for hobbyists.
If you have heard of Lowe’s, then chances are you may have seen the Kobalt name. They are the tool division of the retail giant and produce power tools meant for homeowners and professionals alike.
One of the best features of the Kobalt brand is the accessible price point. Our team found their new tools to be priced well for the value and is a great brand for beginners. There are so many brands to choose from, but our team suggests Kobalt for hobbyists and DIYers as well. 8. Ryobi Tools
Milwaukee is more of a professional-grade brand while Ryobi caters to homeowners and DIYers for the same company. Our team would recommend Ryobi-produced chainsaws for people dabbling in woodworking or construction, but some of their tools can visit job sites and do well. However, we would advise choosing Milwaukee over Ryobi for more commercial purposes.
Ryobi has circular saws, excellent radial arm saws, impact drivers and many other tools in its arsenal that are great for small jobs. 9. Metabo HPT Hitachi
A part of Hitachi, the Japanese brand famous for home appliances, Metabo is their division for power tools. As you would expect, Metabo comes with the quality and care you would come to rely on from a large conglomerate like Hitachi. Like other brands, Metabo specializes in certain power tools such as angle grinders and other heavy-duty tools.
Not only does Metabo have the full weight of the Hitachi reputation behind them, but they also offer the same performance, which is why they come at a higher price similar tothe Festool brand. If you require a tool that Metabo manufactures for the bulk of your work, our team wouldn’t recommend going with any other brand. 10. Hilti Tools
We now make our way out of Japan and into Europe, more specifically into a country called Liechtenstein, and the home of the Hilti brand. Hilti is best known for its pneumatic tools, namely the TE 17. Hilti is still the one brand known for its signature red hammer drills, which are also among the only smaller tools they have.
Hilti mainly focuses on larger commercial or industrial tools suited for professional use. For this reason, not many other companies are on the same playing field. Hilti products are even seen on bridge expansions.
Excellent power tool options are not the only thing Hilti has to offer as they also have excellent after-service and a large sales force that can come onsite to help with your power tool malfunctions. 11. Porter-Cable/Black & Decker
Porter-Cable is our team’s other recommendation for pneumatic tools. It is also a well-established company. It was founded in 1906 in New York and has also since then joined the Black & Decker family. Our pros would say they are middle of the line compared to its brothers also under the same parent company, but we also believe they provide excellent quality and value for the price. 12. Skil
However, that was not the end of its journey and Skil was then acquired by Chevron, a Chinese power tool manufacturer. Choosing Our Top Power Tool Brands
Speaking of taking customer opinions into account, the next characteristic is customer experience. The hallmark of an exceptional brand or company isn’t just the brushless tools or impact drivers, but the customer service.
It doesn’t matter if the brand manufactures gardening tools, yard equipment or a cordless drill, how the customer is treated will impact the reputation of the company. Our team did extensive digging into the customer reviews on most search engines and major rating websites such as Trustpilot.
What kind of after-service and customer care did the tool brands offer? Power tool brands need to include an extensive warranty with their products and hopefully a money-back guarantee as well.
Aside from general user ratings, our team also took a very close look at expert and professional ratings for the power tool brands. Of course, we also tested power tools from each brand including Ryobi and Ridgid power tool brands, and compared their performance, reliability, durability and versatility to rank them accordingly.
Since we have many experts in the field, we made use of our team’s contacts and friends in the field to compile very detailed ratings to find the best power tools. For example, our team started noticing more people gravitating towards Makita than Skil, which explains their positions on the list.
Our experts also stress that each brand has their specialty. For example, Hilti is more of a professional and industrial brand rather than one that makes DIY power tools. For this reason, our team will advise homeowners to go for a brand like Porter-Cable rather than Hilti, even though it ranks higher on the list. Warranty Length
As we mentioned, the warranty will dictate customer satisfaction to some level when buying power tools, which is why the warranty length is so important. In general, our experts say the longer the warranty for the power tools is, the higher-quality the products are. Of course, this is just a generalization, but it’s one that our team found to be true most of the time after years of experience in the industry.
Unfortunately, brands don’t usually offer an all-encompassing brand warranty, so most power tools come with individual ones that offer different coverage. Because of this, our team felt the best way was to compile the average warranty length for each brand. Our results showed brands that offered 1 to 2-year warranties were pretty standard and middle of the pack. The best tools are the ones that offer lifetime warranties.
Then, our team focused on the actual sales for each brand. It doesn’t matter if the brands have exceptional reviews if their power tools do not sell. We scoured the web for info such as search volume and trends for each brand to determine their spots on the list. The popularity of each brand is also an indicator of the sales success.
Lastly, our team took to the forums to read and take part in the discussions on each brand. Questions about comparisons between tools and brands, to more specific questions such as compatibility issues and accessories are often discussed on these forums. We saw a focus of praise around the best tools for certain brands and our team made further judgements from there to find the best spot on the list.
In an effort to dig further, our team also engaged in constructive conversations with the posters on the forums. We asked questions as to why they formed their opinions about each brand and what tools they would recommend for different jobs. Our team also made it a point to solicit the advice of professionals and hobbyists alike to get the most well-rounded view of opinions.
Bosch is the power tool brand that has the best batteries. Not only are their cordless tools the longest-lasting, but they are also some of the most powerful options on the market. Aside from performance, Bosch batteries are also extremely durable and can handle the elements to render their cordless power tools the best of all.
Yes, Milwaukee is better than Dewalt if you are looking for compact power tools or battery-powered options. It comes down to what project or job you have at hand, but for durability and quality, our team feels that Milwaukee has an edge and they also have a more extensive warranty on their products.
No, Ryobi is not better than Dewalt in a professional sense. Dewalt has a wider range of tools for various skill levels while Ryobi is a good entry-level brand for beginners, DIYers, and homeowners. That being said, Ryobi does come at a better price point, but our experts advise against relying on Ryobi products for heavy-duty jobs. Conclusion
After extensive research, our team has deemed Makita as the overall best power tool brand. Makita is renowned for their quality and is praised for their cordless platform. Their tools are durable and they have over a century of experience in creating woodworking power tools to have reached the status they have today. If you are looking for reliability and trust, there is no brand better.
The company has a long history of excellence that they display through all their technological advances. These days, Bosch is a global engineering company, established in over 60 countries. They offer many technological services, especially in the surveillance and automotive industries. It’s a source of German pride that the Bosch name is 135 years old, but the North American division of Bosch Power Tools was only just formed in 2003, the same year they invented the cordless screwdriver with a lithium-ion battery.
Today, the Robert Bosch Tool Corporation creates and manufactures all kinds of power tools, accessories, levels, and more. They have no parent brand, but hundreds of subsidiaries under their brand name.
After a man named Albert Seibert acquired the company in 1924, the company’s goal was to improve their invention and create longer-lasting tools on the market.
Though the company has been sold four times since its beginning, their mission has been the same. They have improved the design of useful tools and invented some new ones. Most notable is their invention of the reciprocating element in the hacksaw, and a variety of blades to cut different materials included.
The days of finding a locally manufactured product in any industry are long gone, but that doesn’t have to mean that the quality goes down. Bosch manufactures its power tools in mainly Malaysia, Taiwan, and China, but some of their tools and accessories are made in Germany and Switzerland.
As a Chinese-owned company, most Milwaukee power tools are manufactured in China. Chinese factories dominate all industries in terms of quality in relation to cost.
When it comes to power tools, they have a reputation for professionalism. In fact, their website mostly focuses on providing the professional builder with professional tools.
Bosch has a great line of power tools that come at mid-range prices. The technology in these tools is top-notch for the prices they can be bought for.
For their line of cordless power tools, Bosch has a good reputation for excellent batteries. Their cordless combo kit comes with 4-amp batteries, which last a long time while on the job.
When it comes to cordless power tools, Milwaukee has a wider variety of options available. With Milwaukee batteries already in hand, you could purchase things like a leaf blower and a nail gun while using the same batteries.
The prices between these two brands are generally the same overall. Milwaukee has some cheaper power tools, while Bosch has some cheaper other options.
Milwaukee’s impact and driver cordless drills are all highly rated products. They sell a more affordable set of batteries than competing brands that are compatible with all of their cordless power tools.
Bosch’s warranty is a flat 1-year limited for all of their power tools, additionally covering any electrical, safety and performance checks with a service protection plan. The customer is responsible for shipping the defunct product to and from the service center.
Milwaukee’s warranty varies depending on the product. Most of their portable power tools come with up to 5 years of a limited warranty. Check the specific product warranty before you buy, as replacement parts aren’t always covered in a limited warranty.
For power tools, you can expect at least a year-long warranty to cover some basic things like quality control, malfunctions, and certain other checks concerning the working condition of the power tool. There is always a company number that you can call to talk to someone about what’s going wrong with your product.
Because most tools are an investment and you tend to stick with one brand, it’s important to choose a brand that has customer service up to your standards.
Bosch has a customer service line just like all the other power tool brands, but can be not so helpful if something goes wrong with your tool, according to customer reviews. For people who have received less than ideal products from Bosch, they have had little or no help from customer service. Plus, if something goes wrong, you are responsible for paying shipping to and from a service center.
First up is Bosch and Milwaukee’s versions of power tool combo kits. When you are a beginner DIY’er, you want to find a tool combo kit that will suit your needs and last you a long time. These two brands offer their own versions of combo kits. Both combo kits have near 5-star ratings, with the Milwaukee coming in just slightly higher
The Bosch CLPK22-120 12-Volt Cordless Combo Kit includes a drill driver, impact driver, two batteries and a battery charger. The carrying case is hard, therefore probably difficult to fill all the pieces back into. The design of the tools in this kit are more compact, therefore they more easily fit into compact spaces.
The Milwaukee 2598-22 M12 Fuel 2 Piece Kit comes with a hammer drill, hex impact driver, two batteries and a charger. This kit comes with a cloth carrying case, which is much easier to put tools back into. This kit, for just a little bit more money, offers brushless motors for both tools.
When it comes to cordless power tools, most people tend to stick with the brand they already have batteries for, as they are usually interchangeable within the brand. The same goes for these reciprocating saws.
The Milwaukee Sawzall saw doesn’t vibrate as much as many other saws. This specific reciprocating saw has an amazing reputation as one of the best saws around. It’s got lots of power and limited kickback, a work light, and 90% 5-star ratings.
For the final faceoff of products, we chose a product that neither brand is completely well-known for and compared their features. Though cordless power tools are the newest and most hyped-up power tools, a lot of people prefer corded tools for consistent power through all projects. Here we have a Bosch and Milwaukee model of the classic corded circular saw.
The Bosch CS10 is the more affordable option and is slightly higher rated. Though it’s a little slower in RPMs than the Milwaukee equivalent, its motor is similar to a powerful worm drive saw.
The Milwaukee Circular Saw, Tilt Lock has more ripping power at 5800 RPMs. Purchasers complain about the included rip fence having poor quality, or that it had been forgotten in the packaging altogether.
Milwaukee gets our pick for performance due to their sole focus on power tools. They have a lot of good reputation based on consistent and positive customer reviews. People who buy Milwaukee rarely switch over to other brands, and it’s because the brand consistently performs well over all the power tools they manufacture.
We know that not everyone can afford top of the line power tools. Though these two brands have super similar prices, Bosch gets our pick for best price. Bosch consistently has a slightly lower price than Milwaukee across all power tools, without sacrificing much quality.
Pros and weekend warriors praise Milwaukee time and time again for lasting for a very long time. You definitely get what you pay for in this area. Milwaukee tools are built to last and their loyal fan base are always talking about it in the customer reviews.
For overall best quality of product and better customer service, our winner between this duel is Milwaukee. Perhaps because they don’t have as many “irons in the fire,” Milwaukee delivers some of the best power tools on the market.
Bosch, on the other hand, is a great choice as well. As we learned earlier, the strong engineering background means that Bosch can create the same great power tools as any other brand but at a more affordable rate.