When you're wrestling with a stubborn fastener between floor joists or trying to drill a clean hole inside a cramped cabinet, the sheer size of your tool can quickly become your biggest obstacle. That's exactly the frustration Milwaukee is targeting with its newly released M18 Compact Brushless 1/2-Inch Drill Driver (3601-21CT) and 1/4-Inch Hex Impact Driver (3650-21CT). These drivers are designed to shave down their footprint without sacrificing the performance you expect on the jobsite.
The impact driver measures just 4.4 inches in length, while the drill driver comes in at 5.7 inches, delivering serious 18-volt power in a drastically smaller package. If you frequently find yourself working in tight quarters, it's worth looking closely at exactly how these new compact models balance their reduced size with the torque you need to get the job done.
Size That Actually Matters
The new Milwaukee M18 driver models prove you don't need bulk to get work done. The drill driver delivers 550 inch-pounds of torque and spins up to 1,700 RPM, handling most common drilling and fastening applications without feeling underpowered. At 3.2 pounds with the battery, it provides excellent control for overhead work or confined spaces where a full-size drill becomes a liability.
The impact driver delivers 1,700 inch-pounds of torque at up to 3,600 RPM. At just 4.4 inches long and 2.1 inches wide, it fits into spaces where standard impact drivers simply won't. The enhanced variable speed trigger gives you the control to avoid stripping fasteners or damaging materials when precision matters more than speed.
Built to Last, Not Just Small
Both tools feature all-metal gear cases and components, which means Milwaukee didn't compromise durability to achieve the compact size. The brushless motors deliver efficient power while REDLINK Intelligence optimizes battery performance for maximum runtime. Each kit includes an M18 REDLITHIUM CP2.0 battery, M12/M18 multi-voltage charger, and contractor bag.
These drivers join Milwaukee's M18 system with compatibility across 250+ cordless solutions. If you're already running M18 batteries, adding these compact drivers to your lineup means more versatility without managing another battery platform.
Shop the New Milwaukee M18 Compact Driver Kits
Features 5.7-inch length, 550 inch-pounds torque, 1,700 RPM, brushless motor, all-metal gear case, and 1/2-inch metal chuck. Weighs 3.2 lbs with battery for excellent overhead control. Kit includes drill driver, M18 REDLITHIUM CP2.0 battery, M12/M18 multi-voltage charger, and contractor bag. REDLINK Intelligence optimizes battery performance.
Features 4.4-inch length, 2.1-inch width, 1,700 inch-pounds torque, 3,600 RPM, brushless motor, all-metal gearcase and gears, and enhanced variable speed trigger. Kit includes an impact driver, an M18 REDLITHIUM CP2.0 battery, an M12/M18 multi-voltage charger, and a contractor bag. Unrivaled access in tight spaces with professional durability.
Milwaukee M18 REDLITHIUM Battery Options
Expand runtime with higher-capacity M18 batteries, including the 5.0Ah, 8.0Ah, and 12.0Ah options. All M18 batteries work across the entire platform for maximum flexibility.
About The Milwaukee Tool Brand
Milwaukee Tool has been engineering solutions for the trades since 1924, building a reputation for tools that withstand the abuse of professional job sites. The M18 platform represents Milwaukee's commitment to cordless innovation, with over 250 tools running on a single battery system. From compact drivers to heavy-duty demolition equipment, Milwaukee focuses on solving real problems that slow contractors and tradespeople down. Their investment in brushless motor technology, intelligent electronics, and battery chemistry means tools that work harder and last longer, backed by the kind of durability that keeps crews productive day after day.
