Milwaukee M12 FUEL 12-Volt Li-Ion Brushless vs Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless 3/8 in. Drill/Driver Kit
Updated July 2026 — Milwaukee M12 FUEL 12-Volt Li-Ion Brushless wins on rpm and torque, Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless 3/8 in. Drill/Driver Kit wins on sales rank and weight.
The Milwaukee M12 FUEL offers superior performance and features compared to the Ryobi ONE+, making it the better choice for professionals.
Why Milwaukee M12 FUEL 12-Volt Li-Ion Brushless is better
Performance
Milwaukee delivers higher RPM and torque.
Battery Life
Includes dual battery packs for extended use.
Accessories
Comes with a comprehensive kit including a ratchet.
Why Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless 3/8 in. Drill/Driver Kit is better
Price
Ryobi is significantly cheaper.
Weight
Both are lightweight, but Ryobi is easier for casual use.
Simplicity
Ryobi is user-friendly for DIY projects.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Milwaukee M12 FUEL 12-Volt Li-Ion Brushless | Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless 3/8 in. Drill/Driver Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Drill Type | Hammer Drill | Drill/Driver |
| Impact Driver | Yes | No |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Ion |
| Charger Included | Yes | Yes |
| Max Speed | 3300 RPM | Not specified |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the Milwaukee M12 FUEL and Ryobi ONE+ Drill Drivers
The Milwaukee M12 FUEL is a premium option, while the Ryobi ONE+ is more budget-friendly. The Milwaukee combo kit is priced at $369.97, compared to Ryobi's $119.00, making it about 69% cheaper. This substantial price difference reflects their target markets and intended uses.
The Milwaukee M12 FUEL features a hammer drill and impact driver, designed for professional-grade performance. In contrast, the Ryobi ONE+ is aimed at DIY enthusiasts and casual users looking for a reliable tool for home projects. Each drill has its strengths, catering to different user needs and preferences.
Performance Comparison
When it comes to performance, the Milwaukee M12 FUEL stands out with its advanced features and capabilities. The hammer drill delivers 1700 RPM and 350 in. lbs. of torque, enabling it to handle a wide variety of applications efficiently. The impact driver boasts a maximum speed of 3,300 RPM, which is among the fastest in its class.
On the other hand, the Ryobi ONE+ is designed for versatility and ease of use in everyday tasks. While exact RPM values are not specified, it is built to handle wood, metal, and plastic efficiently, making it suitable for home repairs and assembly work. Though the Milwaukee excels in professional settings, the Ryobi provides dependable performance for casual users.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is crucial for cordless tools, and here the Milwaukee M12 FUEL includes two battery packs: a 2.0 Ah compact battery and a 4.0 Ah extended capacity battery. This dual-battery setup enables longer work sessions without frequent recharging. The Milwaukee's REDLITHIUM technology also ensures more work per charge, adding to its efficiency.
In contrast, the Ryobi ONE+ comes with a single 1.5 Ah lithium-ion battery and charger. While this setup is sufficient for light to moderate tasks, users may find themselves needing to recharge more frequently during longer projects. The Ryobi's battery performance is reliable, but it does not match the versatility of Milwaukee's dual-battery system.
Design and Ergonomics
The Milwaukee M12 FUEL is designed to be compact and lightweight, weighing only 2.8 lbs, which enhances portability and reduces fatigue during use. Its 0.5 in. all-metal chuck ensures maximum grip and bit retention, contributing to its durability and performance in tight spaces.
The Ryobi ONE+ drill is also lightweight and easy to handle, but it lacks the compactness and advanced features of its Milwaukee counterpart. The design is user-friendly, making it comfortable for casual projects around the home. However, for professional use where precision and power are necessary, the Milwaukee's ergonomic design may offer a significant advantage.
Versatility and Features
In terms of versatility, the Milwaukee M12 FUEL is equipped with advanced features such as a 4-Mode Drive Control, allowing users to tailor the speed and power output to suit various tasks. This includes a Self-Tapping Screw Mode that reduces the risk of overdriving screws, making it ideal for intricate work.
The Ryobi ONE+ is designed for general home improvement tasks, providing reliable performance for drilling and driving. Its straightforward design caters to users who may not require specialized features but still need a dependable drill for everyday projects. While both tools serve their purpose, the Milwaukee's range of features offers more versatility for those who demand it.
Accessories and Add-ons
The Milwaukee M12 FUEL combo kit includes not only the hammer drill and impact driver but also two battery packs, a charger, and a contractor bag, providing a comprehensive solution for professional users. Furthermore, it comes with a free M12 3/8 in. ratchet, adding extra value to the purchase.
On the other hand, the Ryobi ONE+ kit includes the drill/driver, a single 1.5 Ah battery, a charger, and a Buho holster. While this bundle is sufficient for casual users, it lacks the extensive accessories offered by Milwaukee. For those looking for a complete kit, the Milwaukee provides superior value.
Sales Rank and Market Position
In terms of sales rank, the Milwaukee M12 FUEL holds a rank of 90,897, indicating a solid presence in the competitive market of power tools. The Ryobi ONE+, however, has a sales rank of 195,340, suggesting it appeals to a different segment of users, likely those looking for affordability over advanced features.
The difference in sales rank reflects their target audiences, with Milwaukee appealing more to professionals and serious DIYers, while Ryobi captures the budget-conscious consumers. This distinction is essential when considering which tool might be a better fit for your needs.
Which should you buy?
Ultimately, the decision between the Milwaukee M12 FUEL and the Ryobi ONE+ hinges on your specific needs and budget. The Milwaukee M12 FUEL, priced at $369.97, offers superior performance, advanced features, and a comprehensive accessory package that caters to professional users. Its lightweight and compact design, along with dual-battery support, makes it ideal for demanding tasks.
Conversely, the Ryobi ONE+, priced at $119.00, is an excellent choice for casual users and DIY enthusiasts. It delivers reliable performance for home projects without breaking the bank. If you are looking for a tool for occasional use, the Ryobi may be the right choice for you. However, if you need a high-performance drill capable of tackling heavy-duty tasks, the Milwaukee M12 FUEL is worth the investment.

