Best Cordless Power Tool Sets: 5 Best Choices

When I first started tackling bigger projects around the house—framing a basement or building a deck—I quickly realized that relying on individual, mismatched tools was inefficient. Investing in a quality cordless power tool set completely changed how I work, instantly organizing my shop and ensuring I always have a charged battery ready to go. We’ve sifted through dozens of options to bring you the five best choices available right now, comparing features, battery life, and overall jobsite versatility so you can find the ideal power tool kit for your needs, whether you’re a seasoned professional or a weekend warrior.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	DEWALT 20V MAX Power Tool Combo Kit, 9-Tool Cordless…	View on Amazon
	PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX 8-Tool Combo Kit Cordless Drill and…	View on Amazon
	CRAFTSMAN V20 Power Tool Combo Kit, 7-Tool Cordless Power…	View on Amazon
	RYOBI P1819 18V One+ Lithium Ion Combo Kit (6 Tools:…	View on Amazon
	M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Combo Kit 9-Tool with…	View on Amazon

DEWALT 20V MAX Power Tool Combo Kit, 9-Tool Cordless Power Tool Set with 2 Batteries and Charger (DCK940D2)

This massive 9-tool kit from DEWALT is built for the professional contractor or the dedicated homeowner who needs to cover almost every base. You’re getting the famous durability and reliable performance that DEWALT is known for, alongside an impressive assortment of tools including a drill/driver, impact driver, circular saw, reciprocating saw, and oscillating tool. It’s a substantial investment, but the 20V MAX platform ensures strong power output and great runtime, meaning less time waiting for batteries and more time getting the job done.

Key features that stand out:
– DCD771 Drill Driver: Delivers 300 unit watts out (UWO), making it powerful enough for demanding driving and drilling applications.
– DCF885 Impact Driver: Features 3 LED lights with a 20-second delay to properly illuminate dark workspaces without shadows.
– DCS381 Reciprocating Saw: Includes a keyless blade clamp for lightning-fast, tool-free blade changes.
– DCS393 Circular Saw: The 6-1/2-in carbide blade can cut a 2×4 at a 45-degree angle in a single pass.

Pros:
– Comprehensive 9-tool kit provides excellent versatility.
– Tools are known for jobsite durability and ergonomics.
– Fast, easy blade changes on both the reciprocating saw and oscillating tool.

Cons:
– The tools in this specific kit use brushed motors, which are less efficient than brushless models.

Best for: Professional contractors and dedicated remodelers who need a wide variety of reliable, branded tools from the start.

Expert Opinion: This set offers the most breadth for a user who needs consistent, proven performance across many applications. While the motors are brushed, the 20V MAX platform is incredibly robust and compatible with a huge range of high-performance tools down the line.

PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX 8-Tool Combo Kit Cordless Drill and Impact Driver, Circular and Reciprocation Saw, Jigsaw, Orbital Sander, Oscillating Tool, Flashlight (PCCK6118)

The PORTER-CABLE 8-tool kit hits a sweet spot for the serious DIY enthusiast looking for maximum tool variety without paying premium, professional prices. This set includes essential carpentry tools like a circular saw, reciprocating saw, and drill, but it also throws in bonus tools like a jigsaw, orbital sander, and oscillating tool, dramatically increasing its project flexibility. This kit is a fantastic entry point into the world of cordless tools, providing solid performance and great battery compatibility for general household repairs and medium-scale projects.

Key features that stand out:
– 1/2-Inch Drill/Driver: Features a 2-speed gearbox (0-350/0-1,500 RPM), offering flexibility between high torque and high speed.
– 1/4-Inch Impact Driver: Provides 1,450 in-lbs max torque and 3,000 BPM (Blows Per Minute), offering plenty of power for fastening.
– Circular Saw: Runs at 3,700 RPM and features a 50-degree beveling shoe for angled cuts.
– Reciprocating Saw: Features a tool-free blade release and 7/8-inch stroke length for efficient material removal.

Pros:
– Exceptional value with 8 tools included.
– Includes specialized tools like the orbital sander and jigsaw often missing in basic kits.
– Ergonomic design makes the tools comfortable for long periods of use.

Cons:
– Battery runtime might feel limited compared to professional-grade 4.0Ah+ batteries.

Best for: DIYers, hobbyists, and homeowners who need maximum tool variety for routine home maintenance and creative projects.

Expert Opinion: PORTER-CABLE excels at providing excellent value. This is a very smart purchase if you need a comprehensive setup right away but don’t require the extreme torque necessary for daily construction site work.

CRAFTSMAN V20 Power Tool Combo Kit, 7-Tool Cordless Power Tool Set with 2 Batteries and Charger (CMCK700D2)

CRAFTSMAN continues its tradition of quality and reliability with this V20 7-tool cordless power tool set. Designed to tackle demanding tasks, this kit provides powerful motors across the board, particularly the impact driver, which delivers impressive fastening torque. Being part of the V20 cordless system means you have access to a growing line of specialized tools that all run on the same reliable battery platform. This kit is ideal for users who prioritize strong performance in their core tools (drill, impact, saw) while still enjoying a good overall value.

Key features that stand out:
– 20V MAX 1/2 inch Cordless Drill: Provides 280 UWO of power with a two-speed gearbox for tackling tough materials.
– 20V MAX 1/4 inch Cordless Impact Driver: Delivers a substantial 1,460 in-lbs of torque for heavy-duty fastening applications.
– Reciprocating Saw: Features a 1-inch stroke length running at 3,000 SPM’s, enabling fast and aggressive cutting.
– V20 Cordless System: Ensures full compatibility with the large and expanding line of CRAFTSMAN 20V tools.

Pros:
– Excellent torque and speed specifications on the drill and impact driver.
– Tool-free blade change on the reciprocating saw is convenient.
– Good balance of power, features, and price point.

Cons:
– The included batteries may not provide enough runtime for heavy, all-day sawing tasks.

Best for: General household repair, light renovation projects, and users who have brand loyalty to the dependable CRAFTSMAN name.

Expert Opinion: CRAFTSMAN has focused on making sure the primary driving and drilling tools meet high performance standards. If you spend most of your time screwing and drilling, the impressive torque of the impact driver here is a major selling point.

RYOBI P1819 18V One+ Lithium Ion Combo Kit (6 Tools: Drill/Driver, Impact Driver, Reciprocating Saw, Circular Saw, Multi-Tool, LED Worklight, 4.0 Ah & 1.5 Ah Battery, Charger, Bag)

The RYOBI P1819 combo kit is the quintessential choice for the dedicated DIYer who loves having options. While the tools themselves offer competent, entry-level performance suitable for 90% of household tasks, the true strength lies in the ONE+ Ecosystem. With over 125 compatible tools, you can run everything from standard drills and saws to specialized items like leaf blowers and tire inflators all off the same batteries. This 6-tool set provides a great foundation, including a high-capacity 4.0 Ah battery for the power-hungry saws.

Key features that stand out:
– ONE+ Ecosystem: Over 125 different tools all run on the same 18V battery platform, making expansion incredibly affordable.
– Battery Versatility: Includes both a 4.0 Ah high-capacity battery for longer runs and a compact 1.5 Ah battery for lightweight tasks.
– Tool Variety: Kit includes all the essentials, plus an LED Worklight and a Multi-Tool for detailed work.
– Great Starter Set: Provides everything needed for a wide array of basic and intermediate projects.

Pros:
– Unbeatable ecosystem compatibility for future tool purchases.
– Excellent price point for the number of tools and batteries included.
– Includes a high-capacity battery standard for better saw performance.

Cons:
– Performance and torque output generally sit below professional-grade brands like DEWALT or Milwaukee.

Best for: DIY enthusiasts, apartment dwellers, and anyone who anticipates needing to expand their collection with specialized, non-standard tools.

Expert Opinion: You buy into RYOBI for the system, not just the single kit. If you value flexibility and the ability to affordably acquire niche tools later on, this is the most sensible choice.

M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Combo Kit 9-Tool with 2-Batteries, Charger and Tool Bag

When the job demands relentless power and high-output performance day after day, you turn to Milwaukee. This 9-tool M18 combo kit is truly a professional-grade selection, including powerful items often missing in other kits, such as a High-Torque Impact Wrench and a Grinder. Built around the revolutionary REDLITHIUM battery system and powerful 4-Pole Frameless Motors, these tools deliver more runtime and greater power compared to standard lithium-ion competitors. This set is engineered for maximum jobsite productivity and longevity.

Key features that stand out:
– Complete 9-Tool Set: Includes professional essentials like a grinder, compact blower, and high-torque impact wrench for demanding tasks.
– Powerful REDLITHIUM Battery System: Provides superior runtime and performance, designed to withstand rigorous jobsite conditions.
– Milwaukee 4-Pole Frameless Motor: Robust internal design and rare-earth magnets ensure longer tool life and enhanced efficiency.
– Durable & Ergonomic Design: Tools are built for superior handling and reduced fatigue during extended, heavy-duty use.

Pros:
– Top-tier power and motor efficiency suitable for continuous professional use.
– REDLITHIUM batteries offer excellent monitoring and protection systems.
– Includes specialized high-power tools for mechanics or metalworkers.

Cons:
– This kit represents the highest upfront investment of the options listed.

Best for: Professional contractors, mechanics, builders, and anyone requiring industrial-level power and durability in a comprehensive kit.

Expert Opinion: Milwaukee sets the benchmark for battery performance and raw power. If you are going to put your tools through daily abuse, the engineering in the M18 line ensures they will stand up better than almost anything else on the market.

Cordless Power Tool Set Comparison Insights

Choosing between these excellent cordless power tool sets often comes down to balancing budget against required power.

If sheer power and performance are your priority, the Milwaukee M18 kit and the DEWALT 9-tool set are the clear front-runners, designed for daily jobsite abuse and demanding applications. Milwaukee edges out DEWALT slightly with its superior motor technology and specialized high-torque tools.

For the serious DIYer focused on value and accessibility, the CRAFTSMAN V20 set offers professional-level impact driver torque at a lower price point, making it excellent for heavy fastening tasks.

The RYOBI ONE+ system wins hands-down if you value the ability to expand into dozens of unique specialized tools using the same batteries, making it the most versatile option for home hobbies and garden tasks.

If you are a beginner looking for the most tools for the price, the PORTER-CABLE 8-tool kit provides a highly comprehensive starting point, including an orbital sander and jigsaw, for a very competitive budget.

Final Verdict: Which Cordless Power Tool Set is Right for You?

The “best” kit depends entirely on your usage profile. We’ve broken down the choice based on user type:

For the Jobsite Pro (Highest Power & Durability): Go with the M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Combo Kit (Milwaukee). It’s the highest investment, but the performance, battery life, and inclusion of specialized tools like the grinder and high-torque wrench justify the price for daily work.

For the Dedicated Contractor (Best All-Around Jobsite Value): The DEWALT 20V MAX 9-Tool Kit is the gold standard for versatility and reliability. It covers almost every basic framing, cutting, and driving need a professional might encounter without having to spend extra on individual tools immediately.

For the Master DIYer (Best System Expansion): The RYOBI P1819 18V One+ Combo Kit is the most practical choice. You get reliable tools for all household tasks, and the potential to expand into specialized garage and yard tools is unmatched.

Comprehensive FAQ about Best Cordless Power Tool Sets

What is the advantage of choosing a combo kit over buying tools individually?

The primary advantage is cost savings and guaranteed battery compatibility. Combo kits bundle tools, batteries, and a charger, often giving you a steep discount compared to purchasing each item separately. Furthermore, you guarantee that all your new tools run on the same battery platform, simplifying charging and organization on the jobsite.

Should I prioritize brushless or brushed motors when buying a power tool kit?

While all kits listed are high quality, brushless motors are generally superior. They are more efficient, meaning they use less battery power, provide more torque, and have a significantly longer lifespan because they generate less heat and have no carbon brushes to wear out. For professionals who use their tools heavily every day, prioritizing a brushless kit (like the Milwaukee M18) is usually recommended.

How important are the amp-hour (Ah) ratings of the batteries in a cordless power tool set?

Amp-hour (Ah) directly relates to runtime. A higher Ah battery (like 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah) will run a tool significantly longer than a smaller battery (1.5Ah or 2.0Ah). For tools that demand high power consumption, such as circular saws and reciprocating saws, you should always use the largest Ah battery available for the best performance and runtime.

What are the essential tools every homeowner should look for in a power tool kit?

The absolute essentials for general home projects include a drill/driver (for drilling holes), an impact driver (for setting screws), and a reciprocating saw or circular saw (for cutting materials). Many of the best cordless power tool sets also include a work light, which is surprisingly useful for working in crawl spaces or basements.

Are 18V and 20V MAX batteries interchangeable?

Technically, 18V and 20V MAX often refer to the exact same battery pack. Manufacturers like DEWALT label their batteries as 20V MAX because that is the initial peak voltage of the battery off the charger; however, the nominal, sustained voltage is 18V. As long as the battery is from the same brand’s platform (e.g., DEWALT 20V MAX tools only accept DEWALT 20V MAX batteries), they are interchangeable.

How can I ensure the longevity of my cordless tool set batteries?

To maximize tool longevity and battery life, avoid storing batteries in extreme heat or cold (like a car trunk). Always charge them completely before storing for long periods, and try not to drain them to absolute zero repeatedly. Using the proper charger supplied with your cordless tool kit also helps regulate charging cycles and protects the battery cells.