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Almost all major power tool brands include impact drivers into their offers, so you can choose between DeWalt’s, Makita’s, or Black + Decker’s models. Some of the best Milwaukee impact drivers stand shoulder to shoulder with the models produced by either of these manufacturers.
There are very few home improvement ideas that can be completed without an impact driver as it enables you to drill holes and drive screws. One of their main advantages over similar tools is their power as they utilize a power-train technology to generate more torque than a conventional drill.
Besides, these tools are usually lightweight so that their users don’t experience fatigue while performing different tasks. In this article, we are going to take a closer look at some of the best Milwaukee impact driver models and help you decide which one is the best for you.
The 9 Best Milwaukee Impact Drivers
| Best Overall: 2857-20 M18 Fuel™ ¼’’ Hex Impact Driver | Check latest price |
| Most Versatile: 2757-20 M18 Fuel™ ¼’’ Hex Impact Driver | Check latest price |
| Best Hydraulic Option: 2760-20 M18 Fuel™ Surge™ Hex Hydraulic Impact Driver | Check latest price |
| Best 2-Speed: 2667-20 M18 Fuel™ Cordless 2-Speed Right Angle Impact Driver | Check latest price |
| Most Affordable: 2551-20 M12 Fuel™ Surge™ Hydraulic Driver Bare Tool | Check latest price |
| 2467-20 M12 Fuel™ Hex Right Angle Impact Driver | Check latest price |
| 2851-20 M18™ Brushless 3-Speed Impact Driver | Check latest price |
| 2657-20 M18™ 2-Speed Hex Impact Driver | Check latest price |
| 2462-20 M12™ Hex Impact Driver | Check latest price |
2857-20 M18 Fuel™ ¼’’ Hex Impact Driver – The Most Compact Milwaukee Impact Driver
Reaching the screw you want to tighten isn’t always easy, but the Milwaukee 2857 M18 Fuel18™ Hex Impact Driver certainly makes work in tight spaces easier. This hand tool is just 4.59 inches long and it is remarkably lightweight so that anyone can handle using it with just one hand.
You shouldn’t judge its power by its size, as this impact driver features a POWERSTATE™ motor that can generate up to 2000 in/lbs of torque which enables it to drive screws or drill holes at remarkable speeds.
Besides, the Custom Drive Control features enable you to adjust the tool’s speed to the application for which you want to use it.
REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence technology prevents you from overloading the impact driver so that you can utilize it for a demanding task without having to worry about damaging it. The compatibility with the One-Key™ technology lets you track or customize this tool as you see fit.
If pure power is what you’re looking for, there’s none better than the Milwaukee 2857. It’s a solid performer across all screw diameters and no slouch in the ergonomics department, either.
Pros
- M18 Fuel™ batteries ensure long runtimes
- The impact driver’s motor can produce 2000 in/lbs of torque
- Inserting bits doesn’t require much effort
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Doesn’t work with hex bits larger than ¼ inch
- Produces high noise levels
2757 M18 Fuel™ ¼’’ Hex Impact Driver – The Most Versatile Milwaukee Impact Driver
It is hard to think of a fastening task you cannot perform with the Milwaukee 2757 M18 Fuel™ Hex Impact Driver, as it offers a maximum of 3000 RPM and 3700 IPM without the load.
In addition, this tool is compatible with all hex bits sets up to ¼ inch which enables you to work with different types of screws or create holes that have different diameters.
This 18V impact driver is powered by REDLITHIUM™ batteries from Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel™ series that are famous for their durability and long runtime. This tool is also equipped with the REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence system that keeps it from overheating or overloading.
The One-Key™ technology works together with an app and its Unlimited Tool Customization feature allows you to use preset speeds for particular material materials and control the tool’s speed or power output.
You can create four custom profiles that are saved on the cloud as soon as the impact driver reaches the desired speed.
The Milwaukee 2757-22CT is a 1/4" Hex impact driver kit. Equipped with the Powerstate brushless motor, it can generate no-load RPMs of about 3,000, a no-load IPMs of 3,700, and a torque of 1,800 in-lbs for fast and efficient driving speeds.
Pros
- Excellent customization options
- POWERSTATE™ brushless motor can develop 1800 in/lbs of torque
- Offers tool tracking features
- Durable construction can withstand heavy-duty usage
Cons
- Bit sets must be purchased separately
- May struggle while drilling through hard materials
2760-20 M18 Fuel™ Surge™ Hex Hydraulic Impact Driver – The Best Milwaukee’s Hydraulic Impact Driver
If you are looking for a model that won’t make too much noise while you are using it then the Milwaukee 2760-20 M18 Fuel™ Surge™ hex hydraulic impact driver is a great choice for you.
The tool’s Fluid-Drive™ hydraulic powertrain reduces the vibrations by three times when compared to other Milwaukee’s models and it cuts its noise level down by half. The 2760-20 impact driver has a POWERSTATE™ brushless motor that can develop speeds that vary from 0 to 3000 RPM.
REDLITHIUM™ batteries enable you to use this impact driver for the most demanding applications without having to recharge them, but you should keep in mind that the batteries and the charger must be purchased separately.
The Drive Control™ technology provides you with complete control over the impact driver’s power and speed as it enables you to choose one of four modes that is best suited for the task you want to perform.
If you are looking for a solid, everyday impact that will do a majority of different applications, then the Milwaukee Surge 2760 is the way to go. The tool is lightweight, has a great balance, is low on vibrations, has plenty of speed, and best of all, it’s quiet.
Pros
- Comfortable grip
- The tool’s powertrain minimizes noise and vibrations
- Capable of operating at 3000 RPM
- Drive Control™ technology allows for the easy customization of the tool
Cons
- Bulkier and heavier than other Milwaukee’s impact drivers
- Cannot be used with fasteners that are larger than ¼-inch
2667-20 M18 Fuel™ Cordless 2-Speed Right Angle Impact Driver –The Best Milwaukee’s 2-Speed Impact Driver
Unlike the pistol grip models, the Milwaukee 2667-20 M18 Fuel™ Cordless 2-Speed right angle impact driver can offer accuracy even when used in a limited space. This impact driver is a specialist tool that is designed to help users reach screws they wouldn’t be able to reach otherwise.
Besides the tool can function in two different modes, as it produces 350 in/lbs of torque and as well as 1500 RPM and 2400 IPM while in Mode 1. Activating Mode 2 will grant you access to 675 in/lbs of torque, 2250 RPM, and 3400 IMP.
This impact driver also has excellent safety features, since the REDLINK™ Intelligence technology protects it from overheating or overloading. Moreover, the 2667-20 model has a LED work light that illuminates that area on which you want to perform a fastening or drilling job.
The tool weighs just 2.2lbs, and you can use it for a long time without getting tired.
Milwaukee M18 Right Angle Impact Driver offers excellent build quality, intuitive features, and the power to get the job done.
Pros
- Allows users to choose the output torque and speed
- 1.7-inch right angle head profile allows for fastening jobs in tight spaces
- Paddle switch offers a variety of gripping positions
- Features a LED work light that enables you to use the tool in low light conditions
Cons
- Lower power output than on conventional pistol grip models
- Vibrations can make controlling the impact driver difficult
2551-20 M12 Fuel™ Surge™ Hydraulic Driver Bare Tool – Most Affordable
Labeled as the first 12V hydraulic impact driver, the 2551-20 M12 Fuel™ Surge™ hydraulic driver bare tool surely lives up to the expectations. The Fluid-Drive™ hydraulic powertrain reduces the amount of noise and vibrations the tool makes, while at the same time it increases its maximum speed.
The POWERSTATE™ brushless motor enables you to use the tool at speeds that vary between 0 and 3200RPM and it also ensures constant power output that reduces the amount of time it needs to drive a screw.
Also, this hydraulic driver is equipped with a 4-Mode Drive Control that enables you to choose the model that is best suited for the material you are working with or prevent damaging a screw by stripping them out or overdriving them.
Overloading or overheating this tool is difficult as the REDLINK PLUS™ intelligence technology ensures that the impact driver operates at the optimum temperature.
This tool can drive fasters at higher setting speeds over a standard impact—in many applications. And with 450 in/lbs of sustained torque, the new tool delivers unmatched performance.
Pros
- High power output
- Easy customization with 4-Mode Drive Control
- Excellent safety features
- Low noise levels
Cons
- No LED work light
- Not compatible with hex bits larger than ¼-inch
2467-20 M12 Fuel™ Hex Right Angle Impact Driver
Despite being powered with an M12 Fuel™ battery that offers a shorter runtime than the batteries from the M18 Fuel™ series the Milwaukee 2467-20 Right Angle impact driver is still a powerful tool that can handle even the most demanding fastening jobs with ease.
Also, Milwaukee’s model has a ¼-inch head diameter which enables you to pair it with 1-inch insert bits. Its powerful motor is capable of delivering up to 600lbs of torque and providing you with 2450RPM and 3300IPM.
Consequently, reaching fasteners and making sure that they are firmly in place shouldn’t be a difficult task, as this 12V impact driver is easy to handle and it weighs just 2.73lbs. Besides, this tool doesn’t operate at a constant speed and you can adjust its speed to the requirements of the job.
Like most of Milwaukee’s impact drivers, this model is equipped with the REDLINK™ Intelligence technology that safeguards it from overheating and overloading.
This new M12 1/4″ right angle impact driver has the functionality of a right angle drill with the performance of an impact driver. 
Pros
- Helps users reach fasteners at unapproachable places
- The motor can deliver up to 600 in/lbs of torque
- The ¼-inch head is compatible with 1-inch insert bits
- Compact and lightweight design
Cons
- M12 Fuel™ batteries require frequent charging
- Produces a lot of noise
2851-20 M18™ Brushless 3-Speed Impact Driver
You can power the 2851-20 Brushless 3-Speed Impact Driver with any battery from Milwaukee’s M18™ series. This 18V tool has a brushless motor that can produce 1600 in/lbs of torque without draining the battery quickly.
The impact driver has 3-Mode Drive Control that lets you choose if you want to use the tool at 0 to 1700 RPM, 0 to 2600 RPM, or o to 3400 RPM. The maximum IPM output is 4200 IPM, but you can also reduce it to 3400 IPM or 1500 IPM.
The single-handed bit insertion option allows you to adapt to the on-site conditions quickly and without wasting time on changing bits between two fastening or drilling tasks. The REDLINK™ ensures that the tool cannot draw too much power from the battery and damage its components.
With a length of 5.1 inches and a width of 2.25 inches, this 3-speed impact driver can fit easily to most inaccessible places and secure a fastener effortlessly.
Compact design: provides excellent balance and control, ideal for overhead applications or work in tight spaces.
Pros
- 3-Mode Drive Control
- The quick and easy bit change process
- Features a LED work light
- Fits in most unapproachable spots
Cons
- Very loud
- The trigger can wear out quickly
2657-20 M18™ 2-Speed Hex Impact Driver
There are only a handful of models within the same price range that can offer the same set of features as the Milwaukee 2657-20 2-Speed hex impact driver. The 4-pole frameless motor has an optimized impact mechanism that is capable of producing 1600 in/lbs of torque.
As a result, you can decide if you want to use the tool in different IPM, RPM, and torque modes, which enables you to customize the tool in accordance with the demands of the project. This model also has a fuel gauge that displays how much battery you have left.
Like all the models that run on M18™ batteries this Milwaukee’s hex impact driver can last for hours before you have to recharge it. The tool is also equipped with an LED light that helps you get a better view of the fastener you want to tighten.
Impact drivers are changing the power tools industry. No model is more powerful in its class than the Milwaukee M18 Fuel. It is simply the best cordless drill for the money.
Pros
- Variable speed and torque
- Long battery life
- Comes with a belt clip for easy tool storage
- Fuel gauge lets you keep track of the battery’s remaining runtime
Cons
- Heavier than most Milwaukee impact drivers
- Not designed for use in tight spaces
2462-20 M12™ Hex Impact Driver
Despite being less powerful than most of Milwaukee’s impact drivers, the 2462-20 M12™ hex impact driver is still a reliable tool that can handle most fastening and drilling jobs.
Its features are not impressive, but the impact driver can still deliver 1000 in/lbs of torque and operate at the maximum speed of 2500 RPM. Arguably one of the tool’s major downsides is the absence of the technology that would prevent it from overdrawing power from the M12™ battery.
Also, the tool has a fuel gauge that lets you keep track of the battery’s remaining runtime. The Milwaukee 2462-20 model has an ergonomic handle that enables you to keep a firm grip on the tool while using it.
This model weighs under 2lbs and it is just 6-1/2 inches long, so you won’t have problems reaching fasteners that are not easily accessible.
Milwaukee 2462-20 is a lightweight and compact device that manages general home tasks with ease. 
Pros
- More affordable than models with similar performance capabilities
- Offers the maximum speed of 2500 RPM
- Ergonomic handle and a compact design keep user fatigue at the minimum
- Compatible with a wide range of hex bit sets
Cons
- Lacks overload protection features
- Not suited for heavy-duty usage
Things to consider while choosing the best Milwaukee Impact Driver
Milwaukee offers a wide selection of impact drivers that have different performance capacities which make them suitable for different applications.
High-end models usually generate more than 1500 in/lbs of torque, and they are usually aimed at professional users. However, torque isn’t the only feature you should be looking at while choosing an impact driver, as it only indicates how powerful the tool is.
You should also keep in mind that models that can operate at high speeds are more expensive than those that run at speeds lower than 2500RPM. Here are some of the most important aspects you should pay attention to if you want to get a Milwaukee impact driver.
Voltage
The manufacturer lets you choose between 12V and 18V models that are powered by M12™ and M18™ batteries.
The models powered by M18™ batteries are usually more powerful as their motor generates higher torque and speed than those featured on M12™ models.
Torque, RPM and IPM
Torque, RPM, and IPM values will help you understand better for which applications you can use a particular impact driver. Models that offer up to 1000 in/lbs of torque are only a good choice for lightweight usage because they are not powerful enough to perform heavy-duty tasks.
The noise level
Impact drivers are usually noisy, and Milwaukee’s models are not an exception. However, the manufacturer offers hydraulic impact drivers that generate less noise and vibrations than conventional models.
Opting for a quiet impact driver will also eliminate the need to wear ear protection while you are using the tool.
The weight and size
Fasteners are not always located at spots that are easy to reach, and you may not be able to use an impact driver if it is too big to fit into the space where you want to use it.
These tools are designed to be held with one hand, so it becomes more difficult to hold them for a long time as their weight increases.
Additional features
One-Key™, REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence or Drive Control™ technologies make using Milwaukee impact drivers much easier.
These technologies are not included on all models, and for that reason, the overload protection on models that don’t have the REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence may not be very good.
FAQs
Question: How are impact drivers different from a regular drill?
Answer: Impact drivers can produce more torque than a drill which is the reason why they are commonly used for demanding fastening jobs.
Answer: Yes, they do, as the manufacturer offers a 5-year limited warranty for all their impact driver models.
Answer: You will have to recharge the M12™ or M18™ batteries every few days, although this period may be longer if you are not using the tool frequently.
Answer: The price of a Milwaukee impact driver depends on the model since they can cost between $100 and $300 without additional accessories.
The Verdict: Which Milwaukee impact driver is the most reliable tool?
Performing simple everyday tasks like mounting a TV on a wall or assembling a new piece of furniture becomes much easier if you have an impact driver. Opting for one of Milwaukee’s model we covered in this article will ensure that you get a high-quality tool that is capable of great performances.
In case you are interested in an impact driver that is both lightweight and capable of operating at high speeds then the Milwaukee 2857-20 M18 Fuel18™ Hex Impact Driver is one of your best options.
A more affordable model like the 2551-20 M12 Fuel™ Surge™ hydraulic driver bare tool is a great choice for anyone in need of a quiet and powerful impact driver.
Which of the best Milwaukee impact drivers are you going to choose? Leave a comment and let us know or continue reading our impact driver vs impact wrench comparison to learn more about these tools.
If pure power is what you’re looking for, there’s none better than the Milwaukee 2857. It’s a solid performer across all screw diameters and no slouch in the ergonomics department, either.
