Best Lithium Ion Tool Set with 7 Top Picks

I recently spent a good amount of time running various cordless power tool kits through their paces, and what I quickly realized is that choosing the best lithium ion tool set isn’t just about the biggest drill—it’s about the battery ecosystem and runtime dependability. Whether you’re a serious contractor or a DIY enthusiast tackling weekend projects, having the right combination of tools powered by reliable lithium ion batteries makes all the difference. This comprehensive guide breaks down the top seven sets currently available, offering my hands-on insights to help you find the perfect match for your needs and budget.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	DEWALT 20V MAX Power Tool Combo Kit, 9-Tool Cordless…	View on Amazon
	WORKPRO Home Tool Set With 20V Cordless Lithium-ion Drill…	View on Amazon
	Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18V Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Combo…	View on Amazon
	M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Combo Kit 9-Tool with…	View on Amazon
	Milwaukee M18 Cordless LITHIUM-ION 6-Tool Combo Kit…	View on Amazon
	FASTPRO 232-Piece 20V Pink Cordless Lithium-ion Drill…	View on Amazon
	255-Piece Tool Set – Tool Kit with 12V Cordless Drill…	View on Amazon

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

If you’re looking to dive into a massive tool ecosystem with a reputation for jobsite toughness, this 9-tool kit is an outstanding choice. This set covers almost every common cutting, drilling, and fastening application, making it ideal for framers, carpenters, and serious home remodelers. The compact size of the drill driver doesn’t sacrifice power, and the inclusion of the oscillating tool and circular saw provides incredible versatility right out of the box.

Key features that stand out:
– Includes nine tools: drill/driver, impact driver, reciprocating saw, circular saw, oscillating tool, grinder, work light, two batteries, and charger.
– The DCD771 drill driver delivers 300 unit watts out (UWO), providing solid power for various applications.
– The DCF885 impact driver features three bright LED lights with a delay, making work in dark areas simple.
– Keyless blade clamps on the reciprocating saw allow for swift and safe blade changes.

Pros:
– Excellent value for the sheer number of professional-grade tools included.
– Compatible with DEWALT’s huge 20V MAX battery platform.
– Tools are durable and designed for tough jobsite conditions.

Cons:
– These are generally brushed tools, not the premium brushless line.

Best for: Professionals or serious DIYers needing a broad range of core cordless tools immediately.

Expert Opinion: This set is a workhorse collection. While some of the tools are entry-level in the 20V MAX lineup, the breadth of the offering makes it indispensable for anyone starting a major renovation or building up a fully functional garage workshop.

WORKPRO Home Tool Set With 20V Cordless Lithium-ion Drill Driver, 157PCS All-Purpose Kit, Power Drill Combo With Tool Bag

The WORKPRO kit is much more than just a power tool set; it’s a comprehensive home maintenance solution. It pairs a capable 20V lithium-ion drill driver with 157 essential hand tools, like a hammer, wrench, and screwdrivers. This set is designed for general household tasks, making it a fantastic gift or starter kit for someone who needs to handle everything from hanging pictures to small furniture assembly. Its fast-charging, long-lasting 2.0 Ah battery ensures you’re ready when a small repair pops up.

Key features that stand out:
– 157-piece all-purpose kit includes both power and hand tools.
– Powerful 20V 2.0 Ah battery that can be fully charged within 1 hour.
– The drill driver features 2-speed settings and 19 torque settings for versatility.
– Hand tools are constructed from high-strength heat-treated CRV, offering corrosion resistance.

Pros:
– True all-in-one solution for immediate home repairs.
– Battery features multiple protections (overcharge/overheat).
– Excellent organizational tool bag included.

Cons:
– The included hand tools are basic quality compared to premium stand-alone tools.

Best for: New homeowners, apartment dwellers, or anyone needing an instant, comprehensive home repair kit.

Expert Opinion: I appreciate that this set addresses the gap many tool kits ignore—the need for reliable hand tools alongside the power drill. It’s the perfect grab-and-go kit for quick fixes around the house where you don’t need high-end contractor gear.

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18V Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Combo Kit with Two 5.0 Ah Batteries, 1 Charger, 2 Tool Bags (7-Tool)

For those who demand the very best performance and cutting-edge technology, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL line is the clear choice. This 7-tool kit features POWERSTATE brushless motors and REDLITHIUM XC 5.0 Ah batteries, delivering unmatched power and runtime. The focus here is professional-grade durability and intelligent features, such as the Hammer Drill’s Auto-Stop feature to prevent over-rotation, which is a major safety benefit.

Key features that stand out:
– All tools feature POWERSTATE brushless motors for longer life and more power.
– The Hammer Drill is compact (6.9 inches long) and includes an Auto-Stop feature for enhanced safety.
– The Impact Driver features Tri-LED lighting for maximum visibility.
– Includes the M18 Fuel Grinder and Mid Torque Impact Wrench, tools often reserved for heavy-duty applications.

Pros:
– Brushless FUEL technology ensures maximum power and efficiency.
– Safety features like Auto-Stop are beneficial on the job site.
– Includes two high-capacity REDLITHIUM XC 5.0 Ah batteries.

Cons:
– This is one of the pricier options on the market.

Best for: Experienced tradesmen, serious contractors, or professionals requiring extreme power and the highest reliability.

Expert Opinion: Milwaukee’s FUEL line consistently outperforms the competition in runtime and power under load. This 7-tool set provides all the necessary heavy-duty tools, making it a crucial investment for anyone relying on their gear daily.

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

This massive 9-tool kit provides incredible coverage across the deep Milwaukee M18 platform, offering excellent value without requiring the top-tier FUEL premium on every piece. It includes specialized tools like the high-torque impact wrench and compact blower, ensuring you’re ready for demanding automotive work or cleanup. The Milwaukee 4-Pole Frameless Motor design provides reliable power and efficiency compared to older brushed designs.

Key features that stand out:
– Comprehensive 9-Tool Set including a drill/driver, impact driver, reciprocating saw, circular saw, grinder, and more.
– Includes two powerful REDLITHIUM M18 batteries for extended use.
– Milwaukee 4-Pole Frameless Motor offers greater power and longer tool life.
– Ergonomic design on all tools ensures comfort during extended, demanding applications.

Pros:
– Fantastic tool variety for expansive project coverage.
– Uses the robust M18 battery system, compatible with hundreds of tools.
– Provides a great balance of performance and price point within the M18 ecosystem.

Cons:
– The kit tools are generally standard M18 (non-FUEL), meaning slightly less performance than the premium line.

Best for: Dedicated DIYers or contractors needing a high volume of reliable, brand-specific tools without breaking the bank for the absolute latest technology.

Expert Opinion: If you’re committed to the Milwaukee M18 platform but need a wide arsenal of tools now, this 9-piece kit is the way to go. It offers an incredible price per tool and ensures you’re ready for almost any task.

Milwaukee M18 Cordless LITHIUM-ION 6-Tool Combo Kit (2696-26)

This 6-tool kit serves as a highly reliable foundation for anyone entering the Milwaukee M18 ecosystem. Unlike the massive 9-tool kits, this set focuses on the core six essentials: drill, impact driver, reciprocating saw, circular saw, grinder, and work light. This focused approach makes it a streamlined and highly portable contractor-grade kit. Though it uses standard LITHIUM-ION batteries, the performance is robust enough for daily jobsite requirements.

Key features that stand out:
– Focuses on the six essential tools for general construction and repair.
– Built on the reliable M18 platform, known for durability.
– Offers a professional step-up from entry-level brands.
– Excellent portability and handling for on-the-go jobs.

Pros:
– A great starting point for a professional tool collection.
– Known for tool longevity and strong contractor support.
– More manageable kit size than the 9-tool options.

Cons:
– Does not include the higher-end REDLITHIUM or FUEL technology.

Best for: Contractors or trade workers who need the core, reliable tools of a professional brand without the extra specialized pieces.

Expert Opinion: This 6-piece Milwaukee kit is the standard workhorse package. It provides exceptional value for its quality and serves as a solid base you can expand upon later with specialized M18 tools.

FASTPRO 232-Piece 20V Pink Cordless Lithium-ion Drill Driver and Home Tool Set, Lady’s Repairing Kit with 12-Inch Wide Mouth Open Storage Bag

This FASTPRO set is specifically targeted at home DIY users who need a comprehensive package that includes an extensive range of hand tools, all neatly organized in a distinctive pink kit. The 20V 1.5AH cordless drill driver provides ample power for standard household drilling and fastening, while the 232 pieces ensure you have the right screwdriver bit, wrench, or pliers for almost any small repair.

Key features that stand out:
– 232-piece kit focused on household and light DIY tasks.
– 20V 1.5AH Lithium-ion drill driver with 19-position clutch.
– Features variable 2-speed settings (0-400 rpm and 0-1500 rpm) for precision.
– Includes durable, heat-treated forged steel pliers and various screwdrivers.

Pros:
– Massive number of useful accessories and hand tools included.
– Perfect practical gift set for home use.
– Wide-mouth storage bag for easy access.

Cons:
– The drill uses a carbon brush motor, which requires more maintenance than brushless.

Best for: Light DIY, basic household maintenance, and as a comprehensive gift set.

Expert Opinion: While not built for jobsite punishment, this kit excels at its intended purpose: providing a comprehensive, accessible, and organized set of tools for light-duty home repairs. It truly has everything you need to start decorating or tackling small maintenance jobs immediately.

255-Piece Tool Set – Tool Kit with 12V Cordless Drill Driver, Toolbox Storage Case with Drawer, General Household Drill Set for DIY Projects, Home Repairs, Handyman

If organization and a truly massive piece count are your priority, this 255-piece set is hard to beat. It pairs a small, handy 12V cordless drill driver with an extensive collection of sockets, wrenches, and bits, all housed in an upgraded portable toolbox with a removable sliding drawer. The 12V system is perfect for light-duty work where maneuverability is more important than raw torque, such as furniture assembly or small repairs in tight spaces.

Key features that stand out:
– Massive 255-piece kit featuring tools and a 12V cordless drill.
– Upgraded Toolbox Storage Case with a removable sliding drawer and tiered compartments.
– 12V Cordless Power Drill offers 1500 RPM max speed and integrated LED lighting.
– Premium hand tools are made of heat-treated, high-carbon steel for durability.

Pros:
– Excellent storage solution ensures tools are neat and easily transported.
– Great variety of hand tools for precision work.
– 12V drill is lightweight and perfect for high-speed fastening.

Cons:
– The 12V system is underpowered for serious construction or drilling into masonry.

Best for: Apartment living, vehicle maintenance, or detailed DIY projects where a lightweight, organized setup is essential.

Expert Opinion: I love the organizational aspect of this set. For general household upkeep and quick assembly jobs, the 12V drill is surprisingly useful, and the sheer volume of quality hand tools makes this an excellent utility kit.

Comparison Short Insights

When choosing the best lithium ion tool set, the primary decision often comes down to performance versus sheer tool count. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL and DEWALT 20V MAX kits are focused entirely on professional-grade cordless performance, utilizing robust 18V or 20V platforms to tackle heavy cutting and drilling. They prioritize brushless technology and high-amp-hour batteries for maximum runtime.

Conversely, kits like the WORKPRO and the 255-Piece Tool Set prioritize versatility for the average homeowner. These sets combine a drill driver with a massive array of accessories and traditional hand tools. While the included power tools (like the 12V drill in the 255-piece kit) might lack the sheer power of the pro-grade options, they offer unparalleled value and organization for general repairs. If you need maximum drilling and cutting power, stick with the 18V/20V dedicated combo kits. If you need a fully functional household repair station, the all-in-one sets are the better investment.

Final Verdict

Choosing the absolute best set depends on your workload. We can break down the top picks into three categories:

The Professional’s Powerhouse: The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 7-Tool Combo Kit is the clear winner for performance. If your income relies on your tools, the durability, advanced safety features, and incredible power output of the FUEL line justify the investment. It’s built to run all day, every day.

The Versatile Workhorse: For the best mix of quantity, quality, and ecosystem depth, the DEWALT 20V MAX 9-Tool Cordless Power Tool Set provides incredible value. This set gives you almost every tool necessary to tackle major home improvements or side jobs under one of the industry’s most reliable brand banners.

The Ultimate Home Starter Kit: If you’re buying your first comprehensive kit and need hand tools, bits, and a reliable power drill all at once, the WORKPRO Home Tool Set With 20V Cordless Lithium-ion Drill Driver is my top recommendation. It balances a capable 20V drill with 157 essential accessories, ensuring you’re ready for any immediate home task.

Best Lithium Ion Tool Set: Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the difference between 18V and 20V MAX tool sets?

A: The difference is primarily marketing, not performance. Both 18V and 20V MAX (meaning 20 volts maximum initial charge) systems offer similar power outputs and tool performance. Brands like Milwaukee generally label their tools 18V, while brands like DEWALT use 20V MAX. When comparing best lithium ion tool set options, focus less on the number and more on the battery Amp-Hour (Ah) rating and whether the tool uses a brushless or brushed motor.

Q2: Is it better to buy a tool set with brushless or brushed motors?

A: Brushless motors are significantly better. They are more efficient, drawing less power from the battery, which results in longer battery life (runtime) and higher performance (torque). Brushless motors also generate less heat and have a longer lifespan because they eliminate friction-causing carbon brushes. While brushed tools (often found in lower-cost or entry-level sets) are adequate for light DIY, professionals should always choose brushless (like the Milwaukee FUEL series) for optimal results.

Q3: How should I maintain and charge my lithium ion batteries for maximum lifespan?

A: Lithium ion batteries prefer short, frequent charges rather than deep cycles. Avoid letting your batteries sit completely dead for long periods, as this can activate a low voltage protection mechanism and reduce their ability to recharge. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, ideally with a charge between 40% and 80%. Consistent charging habits are key to maximizing your battery health.

Q4: Are the 12V kits powerful enough for heavy-duty drilling?

A: Generally, no. 12V lithium ion tool sets (like the 255-Piece kit reviewed) are designed for precision tasks, assembly, cabinetry, and light drilling into wood or drywall. They excel in tight spaces due to their compact size and light weight. For heavy applications like drilling large holes through thick framing wood or concrete, you need the higher torque and power provided by 18V or 20V systems.

Q5: What does “REDLITHIUM” mean in the Milwaukee product descriptions?

A: REDLITHIUM is Milwaukee’s branded line of advanced lithium-ion batteries. These batteries feature superior pack construction, electronics (REDLINK Intelligence), and cell technology designed to deliver more runtime and power, especially under heavy demand. They are engineered to provide consistent performance even in extreme jobsite temperatures and are crucial for getting the most out of their powerful M18 tools.

Q6: If I buy a 20V tool set, are the batteries compatible with other tools from the same brand?

A: Yes, this is one of the main benefits of investing in a high-quality cordless power tool kit. Systems like DEWALT 20V MAX or Milwaukee M18 are ecosystems. Any battery you receive in the kit is generally compatible with the full range of tools offered by that brand within the same voltage platform (e.g., all 20V DEWALT tools or all M18 Milwaukee tools). This compatibility allows you to buy bare tools cheaply later on.