The question of which power tool brand is the best for woodworking is a common one that is frequently asked on forums and groups. To address this question, Lifestory Research conducted a survey to determine the most trusted power tool brands in America.
You comprehend the curiosity. As individuals who work with wood, it is common knowledge that power tools are essential in our workshops. However, the difficulty arises from the overwhelming number of brands available, making it a challenge to select the most suitable option.
As a result of our research, the brands you have previously utilized and the user ratings considered, you have consequently reduced your alternatives.
1. Milwaukee
Since its establishment in Wisconsin in 1924, Milwaukee has demonstrated remarkable advancements. Despite undergoing several changes in ownership, their excellence has remained consistent. In 2005, Techtonic, the owner of Ryobi and Hoover, acquired Milwaukee.
Their recognition increased as they introduced their renowned Hole Shooter, a lightweight, one-handed drill. Presently, the company provides a wide range of various construction and outdoor power equipment. Additionally, they have accumulated a substantial collection of cordless power tools, spearheading the cordless revolution.
In addition to woodworking, professional contractors have found Milwaukee power tools to be useful. Additionally, they have created a one-key solution that allows companies to effectively maintain and manage all of their battery-powered tools.
2. Dewalt
DeWalt, a multinational company, was founded in 1923 thanks to Raymond E. DeWalt’s invention of the radial arm saw. This recognition led many to consider them as the pioneers of power tool manufacturing.
Black & Decker acquired them in 1960, resulting in a significant decline that lasted for a few decades since Black & Decker was perceived as inexperienced in the power tool industry. However, a successful rebranding during the early 1990s transformed DeWalt into the preferred brand for both DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors.
Dewalt offers a variety of power tools including corded, cordless, and various models. Their most innovative product is the FLEXVOLT Battery, which has the ability to switch between 20V and 60V automatically. This feature allows it to power almost any tool it is connected to.
3. Bosch
Founded by Robert Bosch in 1886 in Stuttgart, this German company has become well-known in various residential and professional settings.
Bosch stands out due to its unique ownership structure, with 90% of the company owned by the charitable organization, Robert Bosch Stiftung. It is intriguing that a tool company would typically distinguish itself based on the quality of its tools, which is not the case with Bosch. Despite this, Bosch remains committed to producing tools that are of exceptional quality, reliability, flexibility, and high performance.
In the same way as DeWalt, they are pioneers in battery technology and possess a wide range of cordless tools. For those involved in woodworking, it is important to acknowledge that Bosch tools tend to be pricier than their competitors. However, this is reasonable given that you are investing in superior quality.
4. Ridgid
Established in 1923, Ridgid primarily specializes in producing equipment for the plumbing and HVAC sectors. Renowned in their portfolio are the red pipe wrenches, while they also manufacture power tools encompassing drills, saws, and impact drivers.
Although Ridgid power tools are not considered a major dealer, they are still extensively employed by construction and woodworkers. While they lack advanced battery technology like other brands, they make up for it by offering one of the most exceptional warranties in the market.
5. Ryobi
Ryobi, a Japanese power tool brand, is owned by Techtronic Industries, which also owns Milwaukee. These two power tool brands can be considered as different branches of the same company. While Milwaukee targets contractors and professionals, Ryobi is better suited for homeowners and DIYers.
Although Ryobi power tools may not possess the same level of durability as Milwaukee’s, they do offer affordability, which could explain their popularity among many hobbyists. It is essential to recognize that Ryobi tools are not intended for continuous and heavy usage, such as operating 24/7. If your projects involve extensive use of power tools, it would be advisable to consider alternative brands from this list.
6. Makita
Despite being established in 1915, it wasn’t until 1958 when Makita began making progress. They initially introduced their planer, followed by drills. Nowadays, Makita is recognized as one of the renowned power tool brands available. Their portfolio encompasses all the power tools necessary for establishing a woodworking shop, including sanders, routers, circular saws, angle grinders, hammers, and impact drivers.
Makita is renowned for its innovative yet uncomplicated nature. They have simplified their cordless platform by adopting a consistent voltage of 18V throughout their range of tools.
7. Craftsman
One of the biggest retailers for Craftsman tools is Lowe’s, so it would be wise for Lowe’s customers to consider checking out this brand. Since Stanley Black & Decker acquired Craftsman in 2017, our experts have noticed significant enhancements to this well-established tool brand, which continues to provide competitive prices.
According to Berendsohn, professional contractors may even be seen leaving with a Craftsman, as the brand’s tools occasionally perform on par with professional-grade competitors in Popular Mechanics tests. While Craftsman primarily offers battery-powered tools, it also offers a wide range of corded electric tools, particularly heavy-duty ones like chop saws and grinders.
If you want to build up a collection of power tools without spending too much, consider getting a combo kit. One option is the Craftsman V20 4-Tool kit, which has been recognized as a winner in our Home Renovation Awards. This kit includes a cordless drill, an impact driver, a reciprocating saw, and a flashlight. It also comes with two 20-volt batteries and a charger. The drill can be used as a power screwdriver, and the reciprocating saw is capable of handling the types of cuts through construction lumber that DIYers often encounter.
8. Black+decker
Black+Decker, which has been a reputable brand in the power tool industry for many years, is also well-regarded by our experts. While their small appliances, such as toasters and coffeepots, have been frequently tested in our Labs, we have also been impressed by the brand’s power tools, particularly considering their affordable prices.
Emery believes that Black+Decker tools are approachable and easy to use right from the start, a view that we generally share. However, it is worth noting that while brands such as Craftsman and Ryobi are suitable for heavy-duty tasks, Black+Decker tools are better suited for lighter projects such as drilling into drywall or refinishing furniture.
Our experts in the lab have the most knowledge about Black+Decker’s cooking and cleaning appliances, including the Spillbuster Cordless Spill + Spot Cleaner, which is one of our top-rated portable carpet cleaners. If you read the fun article titled “Why the Black & Decker Workmate Belongs in the Tools Hall of Fame,” you will find praise for the brand’s tools and accessories over the years at Popular Mechanics.
9. Worx
Worx, which has been in existence since 2007, is a relatively new player in the category. While it is widely recognized for its lawn and garden equipment, it also provides a strong range of power tools. Several of these tools have demonstrated excellent performance in our tests. One aspect that we appreciate about Worx is that its products are available at various major retailers, including Home Depot, Lowe’s, Walmart, and others. Additionally, we hold a high regard for the ergonomics of many of the tools offered by Worx.
“Worx tools are well-suited for individuals who may experience arm fatigue when using heavy-duty equipment,” Rachel comments. From paint sprayers to reciprocating saws, Worx tools push the boundaries of DIY tasks without being overly intimidating.
In terms of ergonomics, the Nitro 20V WORXSAW from Worx is our top choice among circular saws. It offers a comfortable fit and exceptional maneuverability for various lightweight cutting tasks. Rachel states that this Worx saw is particularly suitable for beginners, thanks to its compact design and 20-volt motor, which provide a good combination of convenience and power.
10. Skil
Skil is a brand that specifically targets professionals and is the DIY version of Skilsaw, a popular brand. Skil power tools are priced competitively and still possess many of the features found in the more robust Skilsaw brand. This similarity is particularly evident in handheld circular saws, a tool that Skilsaw originally invented in the 1920s. For a significant period, the term “Skilsaw” became synonymous with this particular tool, similar to how Kleenex and tissue or Q-tip and cotton swab are interchangeable terms.
Berendsohn emphasizes the effectiveness of Skil’s $50, 15-amp circular saw in our tests by stating that it was one of the best. If you only use it occasionally and intend to hire professionals for more demanding tasks, there is no requirement to invest four or five times the expense on an industrial-grade alternative.
As part of our lab pick, our experts praised the PWR Core 40 leaf blower from the same brand, stating that it offers the best value among all the cordless leaf blowers on our list (which includes the mentioned $50 circular saw by Berendsohn).
Rachel Rothman, chief technologist and executive technical director at the Good Housekeeping Institute, states that this leaf blower is well-constructed, considering its price, which includes a brushless motor. Our tests have proven that this design is durable over time.
What to look for when choosing the best power tool brands
To guide you in the right path, here are three aspects to consider when choosing among the power tool brands selected by our experts, as each brand produces high-quality items, yet some may be more beneficial to you.
In the past, there was a distinct trade-off between battery-powered and corded tools. Battery-powered models were more convenient to use but lacked power compared to corded ones. However, with the advancements in lithium-ion technology, battery-powered tools can now match the performance of corded electric tools in almost all areas.
The only aspect that is impacted is the duration of usage, as most battery packs require recharging after a few hours. In certain scenarios, corded tools are still favored by professionals who are active for eight or 10 hours a day.
If you choose to use battery-powered tools, think about the wide range of options available. “By doing this, you will be able to save money since you can simply buy the basic tool instead of purchasing a new battery each time, as you increase your collection of tools,” Emery advises.
In the past, the choice between DIY and professional options was primarily based on battery versus corded tools. However, as we have demonstrated, numerous professional-grade brands now offer extensive battery systems. Therefore, what advantages do you obtain by opting for professional tools?
Berendsohn states that the enhanced durability of the tool arises from its ability to withstand heat generated by friction and current flow in the more wear-resistant components. The tool is also made of tougher steels and more impact-resistant plastics, contributing to its durability.
Pro-grade tools are faster due to their high-efficiency motors and battery cells, as well as their circuitry which is capable of effectively handling heat-generated current.
According to Berendsohn, professionals place great importance on speed because it directly impacts their profits through output and efficiency. Additionally, professional tools provide enhanced feedback, effectively absorbing a higher amount of vibration. This feature is particularly crucial when using the tools continuously for long periods.
Pro-grade power tools have the biggest drawback of being priced two or three times higher than DIY models. Additionally, they have a heavier weight and are more difficult for amateurs to manage. The characteristics that appeal to professionals may not hold the same value for homeowners.
The terms of the warranty or service agreement are a reliable indicator of the overall quality, just like any other mechanical product. Most power tools typically offer a minimum of one-year coverage. However, in the highly competitive market, some companies have enhanced their offerings by providing three- or five-year warranties that encompass the repair or replacement of any faulty equipment.
Even some brands provide lifetime service agreements, which typically include labor costs and replacement parts. Emery believes that a brand’s willingness to support a tool throughout its expected lifetime speaks volumes about their credibility.
