Milwaukee Tool just launched their first M12 Subcompact cordless power tools, a drill and an impact driver, both featuring brushless motors.
Driven “with a focus on disruptive size reduction,” Milwaukee says that their new M12 Subcompact tools “are the most compact and lightest tools in the industry,” while also “delivering on performance for service and maintenance professionals.”
Basically, they’re designed to be small, lightweight, and still capable of pro work.
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The cordless drill (3401) and impact driver (3450) will be available separately and as part of a 2-tool combo kit (3494-22).
In this post we’ll go over the main takeaways, with a focus on the Subcompact aspect, and I’ll follow up with separate posts about the new drill and impact.
Milwaukee M12 Subcompact Drill (3101)
The new Milwaukee M12 cordless drill features 350 in-lbs max torque, and 2-gearbox settings with 0-450 and 0-1550 RPM speed range.
Milwaukee says the new Subcompact drill delivers the smallest size and lightest weight.
It weighs 2 lbs when paired with a 2Ah battery.
The drill has a 5.4″ length from chuck to rear. As a reminder, their flagship M12 Fuel hammer drill has a 6″ length.
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Price: $119 for tool-only (3401-20), $149 for the 2-battery kit (3401-22)
Milwaukee M12 Subcompact Impact Driver (3450)
The new M12 brushless impact driver is also advertised as delivering the smallest size and lightest weight.
It features 1100 in-lbs max torque and 0-3000 RPM speed range.
The size and weight savings should be especially noticeable when working overhead.
When paired with a 2Ah battery, the impact driver weights 1.7 lbs.
It has a 4.3″ length. As a reminder, the flagship M12 Fuel impact driver has a length of 5″.
Price: $119 for tool-only (3450-20), $149 for the 2-battery kit (3450-22)
M12 Subcompact 2-Tool Combo Kit
The combo kit comes with both tools, 2x 2Ah batteries, a charger, and tool bag.
Price: $199 (3494-22)
ETA: April 2025
Discussion
At this time, Milwaukee has 3 lines of M18 cordless drills and impact drivers – not including their Surge or specialty models. The M18 line has brushed motor tools, M18 compact brushless models, and M18 Fuel modes.
Technically they also still have a non-compact M18 brushless hammer drill, but it’s not a very visible or popular model.
In the M12 line, until now, they had older brushed motor M12 tools – drills, an impact, driver, and screwdriver, and M12 Fuel models.
The new M12 Subcompact tools fit somewhere in between – they have brushless motors but lack the premium features of M12 Fuel models.
For example, the drill has a 3/8″ chuck, rather than a 1/2″ chuck like the M12 Fuel model, and the impact seems to lack any speed selection settings or special modes.
Here is an excerpt from press materials, to help put the new tools into context (with line breaks added):
Weighing up to a 1/2-lb lighter than the competition, users are able to reduce muscle strain and fatigue from overhead use throughout the day.
Featuring premium metal components, professionals do not need to compromise with this lightweight solution, delivering durability required for the jobsite.
The M12 Subcompact Brushless Drill and Impact deliver performance for the Service Trades, as well as Carpenters, MRO, and HVAC Technicians.
The brushless motor delivers optimal tool performance, providing professionals with faster application speed compared to the current brushed products, to get the job done quickly.
Increased drilling capability in high-speed mode delivers power to complete the most common tasks. Additionally, users will see increased fastening torque to meet the demands of the professional.
Milwaukee says that the new Subcompact brushless tools will be joining “the largest sub-compact system on the market.”
At this time it isn’t clear whether Milwaukee will add other non-Fuel brushless tools to the line, such as a new one-handed Hackzall reciprocating saw.
They have introduced other non-Fuel brushless tools, but these are the first I’ve seen to be given special “Subcompact” designations, rather than sub-compact as a description.
It fits in well with their other naming schemes, such as how the M18 Compact brushless tools fill in the gap between brushed motor and premium brushless M18 models.
I expect to see a shift in Milwaukee’s promotional offerings. For example, it could be difficult for Milwaukee to sell the 2-battery M12 Subcompact drill kit for $149 when retailers still have the Holiday season 1-battery M12 Fuel brushless hammer drill promo kit for $99 right now.
Similarly, retailers are shifting over from holiday season promo pricing on the M12 Fuel hammer drill and impact driver combo kit, which was $179. Most but not all authorized dealers have moved back to $229 pricing after a few months, with the new promo giving buyers a free 5Ah battery.
With M12 Fuel combo kit promo pricing as low as $179, $199 for the M12 Subcompact combo kit seems a bit high.
Additionally, the M18 Compact brushless drill and impact driver combo kit was just $179 for the holiday season and surrounding months. The same combo kit was $189 the previous holiday shopping season, while the standalone kits have traditionally been $99 each including a single battery and charger.
All that is to say that I believe we’ll see lower seasonal pricing on these tools. Either that, or there will be far less promotional flexibility on Milwaukee’s other M12 and M18 Fuel and brushless cordless drill and impact driver offerings, which seems less likely.
This could be the start of a new Subcompact product line, but Milwaukee seems content to have a small range of M18 Compact brushless products. In other words, this could be the spearhead of a new lineup of M12 tools, but there are precedents that argue otherwise.
Ron
1st paragraph “ brushless batteries “ ?
Joe
Beat me to it!
Stuart
Thanks! *fixed* Sorry, I’m blaming it on today being a Monday.
Chris
All is forgiven Stuart!🤣
CA in NJ
Technically, all batteries are brushless. Except maybe for Sonicare toothbrush batteries. They all have brushes by definition.
Mike
Add a tab-less motor and we’ll be in business!
MM
I happen to be in the market for a compact non-hammer drill. So far I’ve been looking at Dewalt DCD800, Milwaukee M12 Fuel 3403, and Flex FX1131. At first this drill looked interesting, but the more I think about it I’m not so sure. It’s only a half inch shorter than the M12 Fuel so it’s not really that much more compact, and when you factor in the reduced chuck capacity & the plastic gearbox it doesn’t seem all that appealing to me. But maybe for some that half-inch and the weight savings are important?
Stuart
I am looking forward to getting my hands on these tools, and consider them a sidekick type of tool for less demanding tasks where size and weight savings are a high priority.
The M12 Fuel model has traditionally been an in-between “do you really need an 18V tool?” type of product. I see these as potentially suitable for light duty tasks, and a more compact and lighter go-to where there could be benefits.
If you want a compact-class do-it-all, then I’d say M12 Fuel, M18 Compact brushless, the Dewalt DCD800, or another compact 18V model.
MM
The “sidekick” role is exactly what I want a compact drill for. Reduced size/weight is of course the point, but for my needs I’d gladly give up a half-inch of length and a half-pound of weight for the greater capabililty of the Fuel model. I agee with Sam’s comment about the weight savings making sense if you have to do a lot of overhead work but that’s not really relevant for me.
It’s a pretty tough call, I think all 3 drills have a lot of potential.
I have many more Dewalt batteries than M12, including Powerstack 1.7s which seem like an ideal match for a tool like this, so that’s a strong case for the DCD800. That said it is also the largest of the three. The M12 Fuel is the most compact, especially when using a 3-cell pack. The Flex is sort of odd. The main part of the drill is the same size as the M12 Fuel, it’s a lot more powerful. It’s also available right now for only $99 kitted with a charger & 2.5ah standard cell (not pouch) battery. So far, so good. But it has a disadvantage in the bulk of its batteries. The tool itself might be nice and small like the M12 Fuel though its batteries aren’t so small.
Keith
You’re exactly right. I have two sets of the m12 fuel drills and I use them everyday. Surprisingly the m12 will handle up to three inch hole saws, i use 2-5/8″ on a daily basis. Mostly just for cutting out 5/8 melamine during cabinet installs but they put my old 18v makitas to shame. The weight savings definitely helps when alot of my drilling and screwing happens above shoulder level. I don’t know how i would feel about using these drills outdoors all the time, but for everyday drillling and screws up to 4.5″ they work great.
Sam
I think the big advantage would be for overhead work. I’ve done jobs where all you do is install overhead lights or drywall all day and lifting the drill overhead wears you down. If you don’t do a lot of overhead work I’d go for the fuel line.
Sfel
I have the dcd 999 and the dcd800 and I can not say enough how much I love the dcd800.
My case sounds slightly different than yours, I wanted something lighter than the monster dcd999 but I still wanted to be able to drive 12″ timber locks. I freaking love the dcd800. I’ve used the M12 fuel too and it’s a great little drill, obviously can’t match the power though. If you’re doing cabinet installs go m12. If you want real good power AND reasonably light weight, go dcd800.
MM
I don’t think we’re too far off. I recently retired my old DCD990 and replaced it with a DCD1007. I love the 1007 but it is heavy, and it’s also a hammer model, so I want something lighter and lacking the hammer function. I’m going to be using it for drilling metal with twist and step bits most of the time. I don’t need it to turn monster hole saws or drive huge screws, but I’m also not chasing every last ounce of weight for working overhead either. If I can get a tool that’s more capable but not much bigger then I’ll go for it, since I know there will be situations where a more capable drill isn’t convenient to go get but I will have this on hand.
I need to go to Lowe’s later today so I’ll try and examine the DCD800 and the FX1131 while I’m there.
James
I work for the parent company and get most of my new tool news from you lol
Droid
Where does it say it has a plastic gearbox?
Oops I meant to reply to MM
MM
I can’t see any metal between the rotating collar for the clutch and the red plastic housing. Just to be clear I’m talking about the outer housing of the gearbox, I’m sure the gears inside are metal!
Droid
Oyah I thought you meant the gears and I was getting concerned🤣
Saulac
This is a welcome news. I have complaining on here about how M12 tools have grown in size and weight over the years. Sure, it is understood that it would happen when the tools have grown so much in performance., but some recent M12 tools are just like M18 with a different battery. Thanks for not losing focus on M12, Milwaukee.
Jeremiah
I totally agree. I’ve got a couple M12 fuel drills and for most tasks whether I grab that or M18 fuel is more about which battery and other tools I’m using.
M12 fuel surge is my go-to driver that lives in my tool bag but this set could be a contender.
I’d love a subcompact brushless version of the M12 hackzall with a decent stroke length. When I got the fuel version I was disappointed to see it’s larger than the brushed. I want one that’s all about being compact and fitting in small spaces.
MattW.
Weak only a tiny bit shorter than the fuel models no thanks. I get it replace thoes old brushed fossils they are selling at holiday time. This only goes to make them more money and confuse the home owners like stated the fuels go on sale for less. Even at 99 bucks for the set I would rather have fuel. Don’t become ryobi drill line and make so many different lines.
ChipBoundary
They have a right angle drill/driver if you need something truly compact. This is for repetitive tasks where being lightweight and compact is a major boon. I install cameras for a living and running conduit at above head heights and on ceilings, as well as mounting cameras, this is unbelievable. Gonna pick one up myself.
JoelLikestools
I could see this replacing the brushed promo kits. Especially since the specs are so similar.
Tucker
The impact driver looks nice in that it is narrow vs some newer models, especially Dewalt which have grown very wide which can get in the way.
Not sure why I would choose the drill vs a Fuel model. A side by side would be helpful to compare them.
JR Ramos
Assuming they haven’t suddenly become honest about their torque/power stats, then this is probably +/- 35% less torque than they advertise, but it sounds like it should still be able to do most common screwdriving and small drilling tasks (talking only about the drill here).
Just comparing the Fuel hammerdrill models and assuming all use the 0.4 pound 2.0Ah battery, it looks like about 3/4 pound was lost from the 2nd gen 2404 and I think the 3rd gen 3404 lost about 1/4 pound over it’s predecessor. So all in all this subcompact looks to be considerably lighter weight. The size difference is just incremental but when you look at the weight changes in the last, what, four years or so, it’s significant.
Considering this drill loses a half pound of tool weight and we don’t see much metal (and considering the 3/8″ chuck), I wonder where they shaved the grams? Thinner housing? New smaller motor? Lighter shade of red? Hopefully the clutch is worth a hoot.
This might be really nice for those working overhead or doing lots of small machine screws and hex head tappers….HVAC and appliance repair, alarm installers, drop ceilings, etc. Otherwise I don’t see a whole lot of reason to get it over the Fuel model which is way more capable all around.
Scott F
Lighter shade of red – LOL
MikeIT
I’ve been waiting for a driver like this. There are tons of tasks that don’t require mega torque so I would rather trade power for a lighter, smaller driver. If they made a 3/8 impact that would be perfect but I guess I can put on a stubby 3/8 adapter until they do. I can’t wait for April.
Harrison
3/8 chuck is a bit of a miss, though understandable for keeping the size and weight down.
It’s nice to see brushless tools continue to proliferate beyond flagships. Hopefully these begin to edge out the old brushed models.
I can see these being a popular ‘first drill set’ for around the home or apartment.
Matt_T
On the drill I wonder how the effective length compares to the fuel version? A 3/8″ chuck is shorter on paper but the bit doesn’t normally seat as deep. So I suspect that will eat into the headline length reduction.
Stuart
Good question, I wouldn’t have considered that. The claims seem to be in comparison to the brushed motor model, which also has a 3/8″ chuck, but you’re right about how this might shrink the difference between this new model and M12 Fuel.
Matt_T
I did wonder where the “1” shorter” claim in the picture came from because your text right below it said 0.6″ shorter than Fuel.
I guess it depends on target market. Milwaukee appear to be pitching these as smaller/lighter alternatives to Fuel for the pro market. If they’re really a replacement for the brushed prosumer models it’s a no brainer upgrade aside from MSRP.
MM
I assume the 1 inch shorter claim was made vs. some unnamed competing brand rather than the Fuel.
Nick B
If these go on sale for a reasonable price, I might replace the brushed versions I carry in my truck tool bag just for the size and weight savings. The bag is just for helping friends and family with odd jobs so I don’t need the power of Fuel. Thought about grabbing another set of Fuels anyway since they’re smaller, but didn’t want to spend the money even with the promotions lately.
Saulac
I hope there is a way to identify the subcompact line? I like what Dewalt did with the Atomic line.
Dave
I had an IRS auditor once tell me his philosophy was “trust, but verify.”
Maybe he means something similar?
Ken
They need this in a screwdriver like the Dewalt 12V Xtreme.
chip hershberger
I will be adding the impact driver as it’s slimmer.
I’ve owned every generation of their m12 drills and impacts.
The drill doesn’t have any appeal to me as I use a surge for any bit that fits.
I’ve run many tapcons with the sds and surge.
Sds has been upgraded (chipping is awesome),now I need a gen 2 surge.
OddBall
Me too–I’m wondering why anyone would need both the M12 drill driver and the impact driver, especially if they just “sprung” for the M12 Fuel/Surge impact driver?
I guess the lack of a (calibrated) “clutch” would be one drawback of using the impact driver to drive screws that you were afraid of stripping, right?
Stuart
A lot of users, myself included, prefer to use a cordless drill for drilling and an impact driver for fastening. Sometimes I’ll use a drill or screwdriver for fastening smaller screws.
Joel Burke
To me it reads like they just released m12? I got heaps of m12 gear, great tools, the riveter makes me Abit weak at the knees, I’m 37 got early stages of arthritis in my hands, pulling rivets sucks with the wrong tool, was an epic addition to the kit. Got an old m12 caulking gun too, amazing, 20m shop front, two seals under the flashing, crank it and run, done in 2 mins and hands unharmed, caulked 8 tubes of glue in under 4 mins, we use two of them doing showers, the old man’s one is a Makita, it’s alrite haha
Stuart
These are new M12 Subcompact tools in the M12 sub-compact cordless power tool system. Needs a snazzier name.
OddBall
@Joel Burke,
Your caulking speed is an inspiration! (60 meters in 2 min. = one linear foot per second, right?) Damn!
And here’s hoping your hands get better soon! And if you have not yet done so, maybe see a doctor now (or a 2nd opinion?) and see what meds might help sooner rather than later? Just my .02.
Devon
I’d buy it at $150, but not for $200 when the fuel kit is $220.
TAC
Back in 2023 they patented Redlithium USB “compact” tools… I wonder what happened to those as they would, I presume, be light weight.
DHCrocks
is it smaller then the Bosch 12V?
Joseph Feher
I’m really interested to get my hands on these. I do commercial low voltage and run m12 stuff because it does 95 percent of what I need and is small and light. I usually end up carrying around an installation driver without a chuck installed, since it ends up being incredibly light and compact. So an even lighter drill/impact set would be nice to have.
OldDominionDIYer
Shrinking these tools at some point must come with diminishing returns, I mean how short does it have to be? Don’t get me wrong I admire there innovation and ability but at this point I would rather see them improve the performance more than shrink it another 3/8″ of an inch! My 7 year old M12 2503 is 6.6 inches long, 8 ounces heavier but has a higher rated RPM and the same torque and I can’t think of a good reason to upgrade. Not saying that isn’t a factor for other buyers but I would tend to think we’re at the end of the shrinking tools and hopefully they’ll focus on increasing performance in the future.
Big Richard
The new subcompact impact wrenches are up on their website now as well.
https://www.milwaukeetool.com/products/3049-20
https://www.milwaukeetool.com/products/3048-20
Look a good bit slimmer than the Stubbys. Unlike the subcompact drill and impact driver, these are Fuel designated. 100ft-lbs for the 1/4″, 225ft-lbs for the 3/8″
A W
I just picked up the kit from Northern Tool. $149 – $20 mailer coupon.
I really like the drill. Perfect size to compliment my M18 tools.
The non fuel hex chuck on the impact driver though is annoying (pull out to both insert and release the bit, vs the fuel quick change hex chucks on Fuel models where you can just push in a new bit with one hand.
I get that this is meant to be a lower price point, but it feels like a really simple user interface that I wish they had kept from the fuel models.