Milwaukee M12 Fuel 2553-20 Review

After putting this impact driver through the TechGearLab tried and true tests, it was obvious that this model stood out as one of the best. It held its own against much bigger, bulkier models with higher voltage batteries. One of our favorite features of the M12 Fuel is that the controls are located on top of the driver's body. This driver has several settings, and because of the positioning, they are very easy to select.

Performance Comparison

Speed

For the first part of our speed testing, we timed how long each model took to drive a 3-⅝" ledger screw, then repeated the process four times to calculate an average. The M12 Fuel was nothing special when compared to the fastest models, but when comparing results to other 12-volt models, it was in a league of its own.

With an average ledger screw drive time of 6 seconds, this model was nearly twice as fast as the other 12-volt models in our review.

For the second part of the speed test, we timed how long each model took to drive a ½" by 3" lag bolt and then how long it took to back the fastener out. The Milwaukee M12, again, outperformed the other 12-volt models — it drove the bolt in 26 seconds and loosened it in 11 seconds.

Torque

To test torque, we welded some ½" grade 8 bolts to a steel I-beam so that we could see the maximum foot-pounds of pressure that each driver could deliver.

The Milwaukee M12 Fuel was able to tighten nuts to an average of 143 ft-lbs. For further testing, we used a torque wrench to tighten nuts onto the I-beam bolts to certain tightnesses to see how strong each model was at loosening.

The M12 Fuel was able to loosen a tightened nut to 275 ft-lbs, but it took 10 seconds to do so.

Convenience

Some elements in the convenience category are easy to measure, such as size and weight, while other features are more subjective and require real hands-on testing. Convenience was a strong metric for the M12 Fuel; we found it very easy to use.

One of the primary reasons to go with a 12-volt impact driver is they are more compact and lighter than models that use higher voltage batteries — the Milwaukee M12 is no exception.

It only weighs 1.7 lbs without the battery, and it is a mere 132 mm long — these are fantastic traits for people that will be using the driver in awkward positions or tight places.

The M12 has a button for changing between four different settings. There are three RPM options and a “self-tapping” setting that helps reduce the possibility of stripping or breaking screws and overdriving. Having a variety of settings is great for people who are looking for an impact driver for finish carpentry or other applications that don't require a large amount of torque. The button to change between modes is conveniently located on the top of the tool body.

The M12 comes equipped with a quick insert chuck that makes attaching bits a cinch even with one hand. It also has a belt clip that you can install on either side of the driver. The light on the Fuel is located right above the trigger and has a good amount of brightness. However, it has a strange shadow pattern due to the size and location of the light. The light stays on for 10 seconds but won't turn on unless the driver is activated.

Battery

To test battery life, we began by driving 14 ledger screws; then, we switched to a ½" by 3" lag bolt, where we drove the fastener into a pilot hole and removed it. We continued with this process over and over until the batteries ran out of energy. The Milwaukee M12 Fuel could completely drive and remove the lag bolt twice and drive 40 ledger screws before the battery was toast. This driver was easily the best performance we saw from a 12-volt model.

Noise

To measure noise we used a sound meter to take decibel readings while we drove a ledger screw, then repeated the process four times to calculate an average.

It produced an average of 97 dBa during our testing, which did not earn it a very good score for this metric. Regrettably, the M12 Fuel was far from quiet.

It's always a good idea to double-check with the manufacturer to see what type of personal protective equipment they suggest for the tool operator.

Should You Buy the Milwaukee M12 Fuel?

When it comes to 12-volt models, the M12 Fuel is the strongest, fastest, longest-lasting impact driver we've used. It can be a bit pricey, but like other Milwaukee drivers, if you already own an M12 battery and charger, the price tag is easier to swallow. This is our top choice for a high-performance impact driver in a compact, 12-volt package.

What Other Impact Drivers Should You Consider?