The first brands that come to mind when purchasing a new power tool are typically the major ones. These popular brands are often favored by the majority of people.
Similar to iPhone and Samsung, these brands are the most prominent and sought-after choices among consumers when it comes to purchasing a smartphone. The majority of buyers typically have a preference for either an iPhone or a Samsung device.
Similarly, tool manufacturers follow a similar trend where people opt for major brands such as Milwaukee, Dewalt, Makita, etc. due to their availability.
1. Dewalt
Undoubtedly, Dewalt is among the most widely recognized brands you’ll encounter while selecting tools for your craft. They produce various power tools, PPE, and hardware, including drills, thickness planers, circular saws, table saws, and more.
In 1923, Raymond E. Dewalt established the company, and invented the Radial Arm Saw, which has propelled it to become a well-known global tool brand. It is particularly favored by both expert artisans and casual DIYers.
Despite its acquisition by Black & Decker in 1960, the product was not rebranded as Black & Decker. On the contrary, Black & Decker opted to rebrand their high-end and professional tools as Dewalt, thereby further strengthening and increasing the popularity of the Dewalt brand.
Dewalt offers a wide range of power tools, including those that run on either batteries or cords. In particular, Dewalt boasts a remarkable selection of cordless tools that operate on the 20V/60V Max FLEXVOLT battery system, which effectively furnishes power to all of the company’s cordless products. With the FLEXVOLT system, craftsmen have the ability to use the same battery across various cordless devices, regardless of their voltage requirements.
An example of this is that a 60V Max FLEXVOLT battery can power a 20V Max tool without issue. The battery will automatically adjust and only produce 20V once it is connected to the tool.
2. Craftsman
In 1927, Sears launched the Craftsman tool brand which is presently owned by Stanley Black & Decker. While Dewalt was also acquired by Stanley Black & Decker in March 2017, Craftsman was not rebranded as Black and Decker.
Craftsman produces a variety of power tools and accessories such as saws, power drills, thickness planers, tool storage solutions, and outdoor power equipment.
Craftsman manufactures various manual tools such as wrenches, screwdrivers, ratchets, and other items for mechanics. Despite the fact that the majority of Craftsman products are created by different manufacturers who adhere to specific design guidelines, the Craftsman brand is still regarded as one of the most dependable tool brands in the United States.
3. Skil
Skil, a worldwide tool brand, offers a vast selection of tools that cater to craftsmen worldwide. The company’s primary aim is to meet the needs of DIY users, presenting tools that enable ordinary individuals to perform basic home projects.
Skil however, also offers professional grade power tools for craftsmen under the name SKILSAW. So, whenever you go on Amazon or any other market place and search for their product, the once labeled Skil are for do-it-yourselfers while those labeled SKILSAW are professional grade products, which are usually much more expensive.
Considering that they created the first-ever mobile circular saw, known as Model 77, they have a significant presence in the power tool industry. This instrument has been recognized as “the saw that constructed America” in contemporary times.
Nowadays, Skil manufactures an array of tools such as sanders, power drills, jig saws, circular saws, table saws, reciprocating saws, sanders and more. Yet, the Model 77 worm drive circular saw is the product that brought them recognition and remains a part of their current lineup with only minor design modifications.
4. Milwaukee
Milwaukee not only refers to a city, but also to one of the leading brands of tools used by skilled workers today. Established in 1924, the Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation is a subsidiary of Techtronic Industries, a multinational power tool company based in Hong Kong. Additionally, Techtronic Industries owns other well-known brands like Ridgid and Ryobi.
Milwaukee has been manufacturing various kinds of power tools such as circular saws, nailers, grinders, electric hammers, sanders, handheld power drills, and more. Nevertheless, their most noteworthy accomplishment was the debut of the first-ever reciprocating saw in 1951, originally named Sawzall.
Delta Machinery remains unchanged in meaning.
Delta Machinery had undergone ownership changes from various companies, with Stanley Black & Decker being one of them, prior to Chang Type Industrial Co. Ltd.’s acquisition.
Throughout the years, Delta Machinery has consistently prioritized and manufactured superior woodworking tools. It is worth noting that the power miter saw, which was created during Delta Machinery’s tenure as the power tool Division of Rockwell, attests to this fact.
For those in search of professional-grade woodworking tools for their projects, Delta Machinery offers some of the top choices on the market.
The technology called SawStop remains the same.
Table saws manufactured by Sawstop come equipped with a unique safety feature that promptly halts the blade’s rotation upon accidental contact with a user’s hand, thus preventing severe harm.
Saws that are powered by tables are critical machines, yet they can also present a great danger if not handled with care and proper adherence to safety protocols while using them. The creation of the SawStop corporation was in response to this problem.
Unlike the other brands mentioned in this article, SawStop specializes in building table saws for woodworking purposes. Table saws that are fitted with their automatic blade braking system that stops the blade from spinning and withdraws it under the table if a user’s hand or body comes in contact with it. All this happen in less than 5 milliseconds.
SawStop is recognized for their technology that helps avoid finger amputations while using a table saw.
A certain type of saw is not favored by certain woodworkers for multiple reasons, primarily because the blade stoppage mechanism can be triggered by exceedingly damp or fresh timber. Therefore, it is not suitable for cutting all varieties of wood.
Once activated, the brake causes irreparable damage to the blade and is not able to be reused, resulting in additional costs for purchasing both a new blade and brake.
These are valid limitations and reasons for not owning one. Nevertheless, consider this perspective: what’s the price of a new blade and brake compared to a machine that guarantees your hands and fingers remain unharmed in case of mishaps during operation? This is precisely why individuals opt for Sawstop.
7. Bosch
This German institution, founded in Stuttgart by Robert Bosch in 1886, is recognized in numerous residential and professional settings.
Bosch’s distinctiveness stems from the fact that a philanthropic entity, Robert Bosch Stiftung, owns 90% of their company. It’s unexpected for a tool manufacturer to stand out based on their tools’ quality, yet Bosch still produces tools that are dependable, versatile, and high-performing.
Similar to DeWalt, they are pioneers in battery technology and possess a vast array of cordless tools. As a woodworker, it is important to mention that Bosch tools usually have a higher price tag than their competitors. However, this is justifiable since you’ll be investing in superior quality.
Popular items:
- BOSCH 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Jig Saw (JSH180B): The Bosch JSH180B Lithium-ion jig saw is compact and lightweight. Its T-shank blade change system allows the user to insert the blade just without the need for any tools, and when it’s time for a blade change, a turn of knob ejects the blade, so there is no need to touch a hot blade.
- Bosch Benchtop Router Table RA1181: This 15 Amp Corded 27 in. x 18 in. Aluminum Top Benchtop Router Table with 2-1/2 in. Vacuum Hose Port is a perfect addition to your workshop. Each router table includes a lightweight yet durable aluminum top and a sturdy ABS plastic base. The vacuum hose port fits standard 2-1/2 in. vacuum hoses for quick and easy clean up.
- BOSCH Combo Kit CLPK22-120 – 12-Volt Cordless Tool Set: This Bosch line of cordless tools uses the industry’s most advanced Lithium-ion technology. This gives the battery greater life and more run time, all in a lighter package.
8. Ridgid
Established in 1923, Ridgid’s primary focus is the manufacturing of plumbing and HVAC equipment. Its collection of renowned tools includes the famous red pipe wrenches, as well as power tools such as drills, saws, and impact drivers.
Although not considered a leading distributor, Ridgid power tools are extensively utilized by both construction workers and woodworkers. Although they do not possess the high-tech battery technology that many other brands do, their exceptional warranty policy serves to offset that.
9. Ryobi
Techtronic Industries, the parent company of Milwaukee, also owns Ryobi, a Japanese power tool brand. Although they are different brands, they can be viewed as two divisions of the same company. Whereas Milwaukee targets contractors and professionals, Ryobi is better suited for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts.
Although Ryobi power tools may not have the durability of Milwaukee’s, their affordability makes them a preferred choice for many enthusiasts.
It is crucial to keep in mind that their tools are not meant for extensive utilization (24/7). If your tasks involve frequent use of power tools, you might want to consider the other brands mentioned on this list.
The best products:
- BOSCH 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Jig Saw (JSH180B): The Bosch JSH180B Lithium-ion jig saw is compact and lightweight. Its T-shank blade change system allows the user to insert the blade just without the need for any tools, and when it’s time for a blade change, a turn of knob ejects the blade, so there is no need to touch a hot blade.
- Bosch Benchtop Router Table RA1181: This 15 Amp Corded 27 in. x 18 in. Aluminum Top Benchtop Router Table with 2-1/2 in. Vacuum Hose Port is a perfect addition to your workshop. Each router table includes a lightweight yet durable aluminum top and a sturdy ABS plastic base. The vacuum hose port fits standard 2-1/2 in. vacuum hoses for quick and easy clean up.
- BOSCH Combo Kit CLPK22-120 – 12-Volt Cordless Tool Set: This Bosch line of cordless tools uses the industry’s most advanced Lithium-ion technology. This gives the battery greater life and more run time, all in a lighter package.
10. Makita
Despite being founded in 1915, it was not until 1958 that Makita began to gain momentum. Their planer was their first success, followed by drills. Nowadays, Makita is recognized as one of the top power tool brands available.
Makita offers a complete set of power tools suitable for setting up your woodworking workshop. Their range encompasses sanders, routers, circular saws, angle grinders, hammers and impact drivers. Furthermore, Makita is recognized for its innovative yet simplistic approach. They have fine-tuned their cordless technology to feature a single 18V voltage throughout their entire tool collection.
11. Metabo HPT (Formally Hitachi)
It should be noted that Metabo HPT and Metabo are distinct brands even though they share the same parent company, KKR.
When Hitachi first began, they could be regarded as masters of all trades when it comes to power tools. They produced an extensive range of tools, including batteries, screens, construction machinery, and aircraft equipment, among others.
They went through a rebranding process in 2018, resulting in a name change from Hitachi to Metabo HPT, and now focus on manufacturing heavy-duty cutting tools like cut-off saws and angle grinders.
Although Metabo HPT tools may have a higher price tag than their competitors, don’t let that discourage you from giving them a chance, especially if they happen to make the specific tool you need for a project.
12. Black & Decker
Their recognition reaches beyond professional contractors. They first made a name for themselves in 1917 when they introduced the portable drill, seven years after their establishment in 1910. Ever since, they have continued to broaden their scope.
Despite DeWalt adopting a professional approach, Back & Decker opted to cater to the DIY market. Presently, they produce power tools frequently utilized by hobbyists including screwdrivers, drills, sanders, routers, and more.
Their portfolio includes cleaning equipment and home appliances, in addition to power tools.
Best-selling items:
- BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* Cordless 4-Tool Combo Kit: The ultimate DIY 4-tool cordless combo kit featuring 20V MAX* Lithium Ion drill/driver, circular saw, reciprocating saw and a work light.
- BLACK+DECKER 20-Volt MAX* Lithium-Ion Drill-Driver, LDX120C: Durable and powerful, this 20V MAX* cordless drill features an 11-position clutch to help prevent stripped screws. A compact, lightweight design enables you to work in tight spaces with ease, and an LED illuminates worksurfaces.
- BLACK+DECKER 20-Volt MAX* Drill-Driver And 68-Piece Project Kit: Ideal for a variety of household tasks and projects, this household tool kit features a powerful 20V MAX* Lithium Ion drill and 66 hand tools and accessories. Includes a carrying bag for portability and storage.
