Milwaukee Vs. DeWalt: Which Brand's Cut Off Tool Is A Better Buy?

Two of the best power tool brands are Milwaukee and DeWalt. If you're shopping for a new battery-powered handheld tool, you may end up comparing DeWalt and Milwaukee before you make your decision. We decided to do exactly that with the two brands' cut off tools. A cut off tool has a 3-inch diameter spinning disc blade at the end of a handle. It's made for one-handed operation to cut metal pieces, tile, cement board, or plastic in a compact space. They're a little bit smaller than an angle grinder, which often requires two-handed operation. When you're comparing the DeWalt and Milwaukee cut off tools, which one represents a better buy for you? We'll break down the different features of each cut off tool to help you decide which one you may want to purchase. 

It's worth noting that if you already have the top DeWalt or essential Milwaukee tools in your toolbox, you'll probably want to stick with that brand, just so you can share the batteries among all your devices. If you primarily own and use the Milwaukee brand but decide to buy the DeWalt cut off model, you would have to invest in a new battery system. The batteries are not compatible between the two brands' systems. If you aren't worried about your existing battery systems and you just want the cut off tool that's the better buy, learn more about the key features that set the Milwaukee and DeWalt cut off tools apart.

The biggest difference in how the Milwaukee and DeWalt cut off tools perform is in the design of the power systems. DeWalt uses the 20-volt Max batteries, while the Milwaukee M12 battery is a 12-volt model. Think of the difference this way: A 20-volt tool will be able to do at least the same level of work as a 12-volt model, but the reverse is not always true because the 12-volt model may not have the power required.

YouTube reviewer Tool Deals prefers the ergonomics of the DeWalt cut off tool. The Milwaukee tool has a thicker handle with a larger diameter, making it tough for people with average-sized hands to hold and control compared to the DeWalt unit. YouTube reviewer Joe the Tool Guy likes that the DeWalt cut off tool has a storage space for an Allen wrench that allows you to change out the cutting blade easily. The Milwaukee model doesn't have this option. Joe the Tool Guy picked the DeWalt model as the overall better performing of the two cut off tools.

If you want to attach a vacuum or a dust collection device to the cut off tool, the Milwaukee cut off tool will give you more flexibility. It has a universal port, so you can attach a few different items to it. DeWalt's AirLock port is proprietary, which limits what you can use with it. Generally speaking, however, the DeWalt option is still the preferred choice.

For the Milwaukee M12 model, you'll pay $124.99 at Amazon and $99 at Home Depot. Both of these prices are for the tool alone. You can purchase a Milwaukee M12 12-Volt Lithium-Ion XC Battery Pack and Charger Starter Kit for $62.50 from Amazon.

The DeWalt 20V model costs $114.14 at Amazon, $129 at Acme Tools, and $129 at Home Depot. Just like the Milwaukee model, these prices do not come with the battery included. If you need to pick one up, the DeWalt 20V Max Battery Pack with Charger is available for $86.96 on Amazon.

If the price you'll pay for the cut off tool is the most important factor in choosing the DeWalt or Milwaukee models, our price comparison from various retailers shows that you'll want to shop around to find the best deal. On average, the Milwaukee tool is slightly cheaper than the DeWalt option, but this is dependent on where you decide to shop. DeWalt power tools generally have a hefty price tag compared to other brands, so we'd expect to see a higher price for the DeWalt cut off tool. While both cut off tools are good quality, the DeWalt option inches out the competition and is likely a better option if you're not already committed to one brand.