Head-to-head · Best Cordless Drills

Makita FD07R1 vs Milwaukee 3403-22

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Milwaukee 3403-22 comes out ahead by a clear margin (3.9 vs 4.5). The gap is mostly about DIY enthusiasts seeking efficiency and versatility — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #5 in Best Cordless Drills

Makita FD07R1

3.9

4 sources1 derived

The Makita FD07R1 is a 12V max EXT brushless driver-drill kit designed for compact use and extended runtime. Consumer Reports and tool reviewers praised its brushless motor efficiency and ergonomic design, noting it's well-balanced and comfortable for extended use. The tool's compact size and slide-style battery with LED indicator add convenience, though it sits mid-pack in terms of weight and torque compared to other models in its category. It's ideal for users who value portability and efficiency over maximum power.

Strengths

— Brushless motor for increased efficiency, longer runtime, and extended tool life
— Compact design with short length from tip to tail for tight space access
— Ergonomically designed handle with rubberized soft grip for superior comfort

Watch-outs

— Weight of 2.33 pounds may be heavier than some competitors in its class
— Max torque of 280 inch-pounds is mid-range compared to higher-end models

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Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Cordless Drills

Milwaukee 3403-22

4.5

3 sourcesall derived$166.74as of Sep 20

Consumer Reports reviewed the Milwaukee 3403-22 as a mid-tier M12 cordless drill and impact driver, noting its brushless motor delivers better efficiency than previous brushed models. The tool features a compact design that makes it suitable for detailed work in tight spaces, with a 1/4-inch hex chuck for versatile bit compatibility. While it offers lighter weight and easier handling thanks to the M12 voltage system, reviewers noted it lacks the power needed for heavy-duty construction tasks. This makes it well-suited for DIY enthusiasts and professionals who need a versatile, lightweight tool for general-purpose drilling and driving applications.

Strengths

— Brushless motor provides improved efficiency and runtime compared to brushed models
— Compact design suitable for tight spaces and detailed work
— Includes 1/4-inch hex chuck for versatile bit compatibility

Watch-outs

— Limited power output compared to higher-tier M12 models like 3404-20
— Not ideal for heavy-duty construction applications

$166.74 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Makita FD07R1

The Makita FD07R1 offers superior ergonomics and a brushless motor compared to the Milwaukee 3403-22 and DeWalt DCD701F2, but it's heavier and has less torque. Unlike the Skil Pwrcore, it lacks a hybrid chuck and USB charging, but it's more durable and efficient. Compared to the Milwaukee M12 Fuel model, it's less powerful but more affordable and ergonomic.

Milwaukee 3403-22

The Milwaukee 3403-22 stands out from the DeWalt DCD701F2 and DCD703F1 for its brushless motor efficiency, but it lacks the raw power of the Milwaukee M12 Fuel model. Unlike the Skil Pwrcore 12-Volt Cordless Drill Kit, it doesn't feature a hybrid chuck, and compared to the Makita FD07R1, it's less compact and ergonomic. However, it's more versatile than the Hercules HCB91K1 due to its 1/4-inch hex chuck and better overall performance.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Makita FD07R1	Milwaukee 3403-22
Voltage	12V	M12
Chuck Size	3/8	1/4-inch hex
Torque	280 inch-pounds	300 in-lbs
Speed	0-450 & 0-1,500 RPM	Fastest Speed Under Load
Battery Capacity	2.0 amp hour	4.0Ah
Weight	2.33 pounds	2.2 lbs
Motor Type	Brushless	Brushless
Battery	12V max CXT Lithium-Ion	M12 FUEL

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