Milwaukee 2801-21P M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver Kit DEALS
As a DIY enthusiast and occasional contractor, I’m always on the lookout for reliable, powerful tools that can handle a variety of tasks. When my old drill finally gave out, I decided it was time to invest in a high-quality replacement. After extensive research, I settled on the Milwaukee 2801-21P M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver Kit.
Milwaukee has a stellar reputation in the power tool world, and this drill promised a blend of power, portability, and durability that seemed perfect for my needs. Over the past few months, I’ve put this drill through its paces on various projects, from simple home repairs to more demanding jobsite tasks.
My experience with the Milwaukee 2801-21P has been overwhelmingly positive.
It’s a versatile, well-built tool that delivers impressive performance in a compact package. While it may be overkill for occasional DIYers, it’s an excellent choice for serious hobbyists and professionals alike. In this review, I’ll break down the drill’s features, performance, and value to help you decide if it’s the right tool for your needs.
Product Overview
The Milwaukee 2801-21P M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver Kit is a comprehensive package designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. At the heart of this kit is the compact brushless drill/driver, which boasts some impressive specifications:
– 1/2 inch all-metal chuck
– Brushless motor technology
– 500 inch-pounds of torque
– Two-speed gearbox (0-500 / 0-1,800 RPM)
– LED work light
– Reversible belt clip
– Compact design: 6.5 inches in length
– Weight: 3.4 lbs with battery attached
The kit comes well-packaged in a sturdy carrying case, which includes:
– The 2801-20 1/2″ drill/driver
– Two M18 REDLITHIUM CP2.0 compact batteries
– M18 & M12 multi-voltage charger
– Belt clip
– User manual
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the build quality of both the drill and the included accessories. The drill feels solid and well-balanced in hand, with a rubberized grip that provides excellent control. The red and black color scheme is classic Milwaukee, giving the tool a professional appearance.
One of the standout features is the brushless motor technology. This innovation promises longer runtime, more power, and extended motor life compared to traditional brushed motors. The all-metal chuck is another high-end touch, suggesting durability and precise bit retention.
- Brand New in box. The product ships with all relevant accessories
The included batteries are compact 2.0Ah units, which strike a good balance between power and weight. They feature a built-in fuel gauge, allowing you to quickly check remaining charge. The multi-voltage charger is a nice addition, compatible with both M18 and M12 batteries, which is great if you own other Milwaukee tools.
Overall, my initial impressions were very positive. The kit felt comprehensive and well-thought-out, with attention to detail evident in both the tool itself and the included accessories.
Design and Build Quality
The Milwaukee 2801-21P exemplifies the brand’s commitment to robust, user-friendly tools. The drill’s design is a perfect blend of form and function, with every element serving a purpose.
Aesthetically, the drill is quintessentially Milwaukee. The bold red housing is eye-catching and professional-looking, while the black accents provide a nice contrast. The design is modern and sleek, without sacrificing the rugged appearance that tradespeople often prefer.
The build quality is outstanding. The drill feels solid and well-constructed, with no rattles or loose parts. The housing is made from high-impact plastic that seems capable of withstanding jobsite abuse. I’ve accidentally dropped the drill a couple of times, and it’s shown no signs of damage.
One of the standout features in terms of build quality is the all-metal chuck. It’s robust and holds bits securely, with no slippage even under high torque. The chuck’s ratcheting mechanism makes it easy to tighten and loosen bits one-handed, which is a real time-saver on the job.
Ergonomics were clearly a priority in the design process. Despite its power, the drill is remarkably compact at just 6.5 inches in length. This makes it easy to use in tight spaces, a feature I’ve appreciated when working in cramped cabinets or between studs.
The grip is well-designed, with a rubberized overmold that provides excellent traction, even with sweaty hands. The balance of the tool is spot-on, reducing fatigue during extended use. The placement of the controls is intuitive, with the variable speed trigger, direction switch, and speed selector all easily accessible with one hand.
The belt clip is a nice touch, allowing you to keep the drill at hand while working on a ladder or moving around a job site. It’s reversible, accommodating both left and right-handed users.
One minor quibble is the LED work light. While it’s bright and well-placed to illuminate your work area, it doesn’t stay on for long after releasing the trigger. A slightly longer delay would be beneficial in some situations.
Overall, the design and build quality of the Milwaukee 2801-21P are top-notch. It’s clear that a lot of thought has gone into creating a tool that’s not just powerful, but also comfortable and convenient to use.
Performance and Functionality
When it comes to performance, the Milwaukee 2801-21P truly shines. I’ve used this drill for a wide variety of tasks, from hanging shelves and assembling furniture to more demanding jobs like drilling through metal and driving long lag bolts, and it’s handled everything I’ve thrown at it with ease.
The brushless motor is a game-changer. It delivers an impressive 500 inch-pounds of torque, which is more than enough for most drilling and driving tasks. What’s more, the brushless technology means the motor runs cooler and more efficiently, which translates to longer runtime and increased durability.
The two-speed gearbox offers great versatility. The low speed (0-500 RPM) is perfect for driving screws, providing excellent control and preventing over-tightening. The high speed (0-1,800 RPM) is ideal for drilling, allowing you to quickly bore through wood, plastic, and even light metals.
I’ve been particularly impressed with the drill’s performance in wood. It powers through 2x4s effortlessly, and I’ve used it with spade bits up to 1 inch without any bogging down. The all-metal chuck holds bits securely, with no slippage even under high torque.
For metal work, the drill performs admirably. I’ve used it to drill through 1/8 inch steel plate without issues. While it’s not a replacement for a dedicated metal drill for heavy-duty work, it’s more than capable for occasional metal drilling tasks.
The 18-volt battery system provides ample power and impressive runtime. With the included 2.0Ah batteries, I can usually complete a full day of moderate use on a single charge. For more intensive jobs, I’d recommend investing in some of Milwaukee’s higher capacity batteries.
Compared to my old drill, and even to some competitors I’ve used, the Milwaukee 2801-21P stands out for its combination of power and control. The variable speed trigger is responsive, allowing for precise control in delicate situations. The 18-position clutch is another great feature, letting you dial in the perfect amount of torque for driving screws without damaging the material or stripping the screw heads.
One area where this drill really excels is in its versatility. Whether I’m doing fine detail work or powering through tough materials, it has the range to handle it all. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals who need a reliable, all-purpose drill.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful brushless motor delivers excellent performance
- Compact and lightweight design for easy maneuverability
- Durable construction with all-metal chuck
- Versatile two-speed gearbox and 18-position clutch
- Compatible with Milwaukee’s extensive M18 battery system
Cons:
- LED work light could have a longer delay after trigger release
- Included 2.0Ah batteries may not be sufficient for heavy-duty, all-day use
- Higher price point compared to some competitors
User Experience
My day-to-day experience with the Milwaukee 2801-21P has been overwhelmingly positive. As someone who uses tools regularly but isn’t a full-time tradesperson, I’ve found this drill to be a perfect balance of power, portability, and ease of use.
There was virtually no learning curve with this drill. The controls are intuitive and the drill operates much like any other, just with noticeably more power and precision. The only adjustment I had to make was getting used to the power of the brushless motor – it’s significantly more potent than my old drill, so I had to learn to use a lighter touch in some situations.
For everyday tasks like hanging pictures, assembling furniture, or doing minor home repairs, this drill is a joy to use. It’s light enough that I can work overhead without fatigue, yet powerful enough to drive screws into hardwood without pre-drilling. The compact size has been a real advantage when working in tight spaces like cabinets or crawl spaces.
On more demanding projects, like building a deck or installing kitchen cabinets, the drill’s capabilities really shine. It has the power to drive long screws and lag bolts without struggling, and the two-speed gearbox lets me switch between high-torque and high-speed operation as needed.
The battery life has been impressive. For most of my projects, a single battery charge is more than sufficient. On the rare occasions when I’ve needed more, the included charger is fast enough that I can quickly swap batteries without significant downtime.
Long-term, the drill has held up extremely well. After several months of regular use, it shows no signs of wear. The chuck still operates smoothly, the motor is as powerful as ever, and even the batteries are holding their charge well. This durability gives me confidence that this tool will serve me well for years to come.
One aspect I particularly appreciate is the compatibility with Milwaukee’s M18 battery system. I’ve since purchased a few other M18 tools, and being able to share batteries across all of them is incredibly convenient.
Overall, my user experience with the Milwaukee 2801-21P has been excellent. It’s a tool that not only meets but often exceeds my expectations, making my projects easier and more enjoyable.
Value for Money
At a retail price of around $144.29, the Milwaukee 2801-21P sits in the mid to high range for cordless drills. However, when you consider the quality, performance, and included accessories, I believe it offers excellent value for money.
The brushless motor technology is a significant factor in the drill’s value proposition. While it contributes to the higher initial cost, it promises longer motor life and better efficiency, which should translate to lower costs over the life of the tool. The durability of the construction also suggests that this drill will last for many years, further justifying the investment.
Compared to competitors in the same price range, such as the DeWalt DCD777C2, the Milwaukee 2801-21P holds its own. While the DeWalt drill is slightly faster in some drilling tasks, the Milwaukee offers comparable performance overall, with the added benefit of a more robust all-metal chuck.
It’s worth noting that for casual DIYers who only need a drill occasionally, this kit might be more than necessary. There are cheaper options available that would suffice for hanging the odd picture or assembling flat-pack furniture. However, for serious hobbyists, frequent DIYers, or professionals, the performance and durability of the Milwaukee 2801-21P make it a worthwhile investment.
The inclusion of two batteries and a multi-voltage charger adds significant value to the kit. Many competitors at this price point only include one battery, so having a spare is a nice bonus. The multi-voltage charger is also a plus if you plan on expanding your Milwaukee tool collection.
In my opinion, the Milwaukee 2801-21P represents a good investment for anyone who uses a drill regularly. Its performance, durability, and versatility make it a tool that will serve you well across a wide range of projects, potentially saving you money in the long run by eliminating the need for multiple specialized tools.
Conclusion
After extensive use across a variety of projects, I can confidently say that the Milwaukee 2801-21P M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver Kit is an exceptional tool that lives up to its reputation. It offers a compelling blend of power, portability, and durability that makes it suitable for both demanding DIY projects and professional use.
The brushless motor delivers impressive performance, while the compact design ensures excellent maneuverability. The build quality is top-notch, promising years of reliable service. While it may be overkill for occasional users, it’s an excellent choice for anyone who uses a drill regularly.
I would highly recommend this drill to serious DIY enthusiasts, home renovators, and professionals in trades like carpentry or electrical work. It’s versatile enough to handle a wide range of tasks, from delicate screw driving to heavy-duty drilling. The compatibility with Milwaukee’s M18 battery system also makes it a great starting point if you’re looking to invest in a cordless tool ecosystem.
While the price point is higher than some competitors, the performance, durability, and included accessories justify the investment for those who will use it frequently. In my experience, it’s a tool that not only meets expectations but often exceeds them, making it a pleasure to use and a valuable addition to any toolbox.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the battery typically last?
With moderate use, the 2.0Ah batteries usually last for a full day of work. Heavy, continuous use may require a battery change midday.
Is this drill suitable for masonry work?
While it can handle light masonry work with the right bit, it’s not designed for heavy-duty masonry drilling. For frequent masonry work, a hammer drill would be more suitable.
Can I use this drill with larger Milwaukee M18 batteries?
Yes, it’s compatible with all M18 batteries, including larger capacity ones for extended runtime.
How does the brushless motor compare to a traditional brushed motor?
Brushless motors typically offer more power, longer runtime, and extended motor life compared to brushed motors.
Is the chuck keyless?
Yes, it features a 1/2 inch keyless chuck for easy bit changes.
Can this drill be used as an impact driver?
While it’s powerful, it’s not an impact driver. For heavy-duty screw driving or working with large fasteners, a separate impact driver would be more suitable.
Does Milwaukee offer a warranty on this drill?
Yes, Milwaukee typically offers a 5-year warranty on the tool and a 3-year warranty on the batteries.
Milwaukee 2801-21P M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver Kit
3 used from $136.80
The Review
Milwaukee 2801-21P M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver Kit
The Milwaukee 2801-21P M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver Kit is a high-performance tool that offers excellent value for serious DIYers and professionals. Its brushless motor delivers impressive power and efficiency, while the compact design ensures easy maneuverability in tight spaces. The all-metal chuck and durable construction promise long-term reliability. With two speeds, an 18-position clutch, and compatibility with Milwaukee's M18 battery system, it offers versatility for a wide range of tasks. While it may be more than necessary for occasional users, its performance and durability make it a worthwhile investment for those who use a drill regularly. Despite a few minor drawbacks like the short LED light delay, it's an excellent choice that should serve users well for years to come.
Review Breakdown
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Features
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Design and construction
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Performance
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Price
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Ease of use
Milwaukee 2801-21P M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Compact Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver Kit DEALS
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