Building out your cordless tool collection one piece at a time gets expensive fast. Combo kits package multiple tools, batteries, a charger, and a bag or case in one purchase. We compared three kits by their stated tool mix, included batteries and accessories, and fit for common buyer needs. This is a research comparison, not a measured performance ranking.
Quick Comparison
1. Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2-Tool Kit (3697-22)
The 3697-22 contains a hammer drill and impact driver, two 5.0Ah M18 batteries, a charger, and a carrying case. It does not include a saw, multi-tool, grinder, or inflator. Choose this package for drilling and driving; add the cost of any other tools your projects require.
2. Ryobi ONE+ 6-Tool Combo Kit (PCL1600K2)
The PCL1600K2 is a standard ONE+ kit, not an HP brushless bundle. It includes the PCL206 drill, PCL235 impact driver, PCL500 5-1/2-inch circular saw, PCL515 reciprocating saw, PCL430 multi-tool, and PCL660 LED light. A 1.5Ah battery, a 4.0Ah battery, a charger, and a bag are included, and every tool shares Ryobi's ONE+ battery platform.
3. Bosch 18V 4-Tool Kit (GXL18V-496B22)
Bosch lists a drill/driver, impact driver, reciprocating saw, and LED work light in this kit, with two 2.0Ah SlimPack batteries, a charger, and a carrying bag. This package does not include a circular saw or multi-tool. Bosch's product page contains differing impact-driver model references, so confirm the exact included tool with the seller.
How We Compared Combo Kits
We compared each kit by useful tool coverage, published specifications, included battery capacity, charger and storage, warranty, current retailer availability, and ecosystem flexibility. Because bundle contents can change, verify the exact model number and included components at the retailer before buying. This is a research and specification comparison, not a controlled runtime test.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Combo Kit
Check Battery Compatibility: Compare the batteries you already own with the tools you expect to add. Confirm compatibility for each exact model rather than choosing on a claimed platform-size ranking. Our Makita vs Milwaukee comparison explains additional platform considerations.
Brushless vs. Brushed: Premium kits in this list use brushless motors, while the Ryobi PCL1600K2 uses standard brushed tools to keep the entry cost lower. Brushless tools generally offer better efficiency and runtime, but a brushed kit can still make sense when broad tool coverage matters more than maximum performance.
Battery Capacity: Pay attention to included battery sizes. Kits with 5.0Ah batteries handle sustained heavy work, while 2.0Ah packs are lighter but drain faster. Multiple batteries let you keep working while one charges.
Assess Your Actual Needs: A larger kit can be wasteful if you will only use a few included tools. For basic home projects, a smaller kit with fastening tools, a saw, and a light may be enough; match the package to the work you expect to do. If you are still deciding whether you need both a drill and an impact driver, our impact driver vs drill comparison explains the real differences so you can commit confidently.
The Bottom Line
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2-Tool Kit is a focused option for buyers who need a hammer drill and impact driver. If budget is your priority, compare the current DEWALT and Ryobi prices carefully: the Ryobi ONE+ PCL1600K2 offers six standard tools and a broad ecosystem, while premium kits offer higher-performance brushless tools. The right value depends on your projects, the exact included tools and current prices.
Related Buyer's Guides
Looking for the best individual tools to complement your kit? Check out our other in-depth buyer's guides:
- Best Cordless Drills (2026) – Top-rated drill/drivers for every skill level and budget
- Best Impact Drivers (2026) – High-torque fastening tools for heavy-duty jobs
- Best Circular Saws (2026) – Powerful cutting tools for lumber and sheet goods
- Best Cordless Angle Grinders (2026) – Versatile grinders for cutting, grinding, and polishing
- Best Oscillating Multi-Tools (2026) – Swiss-army-knife tools for detail work and tight spaces
- Best Random Orbital Sanders (2026) – Smooth-finishing sanders for woodworking projects
- Best Nail Guns (2026) – Cordless nailers for framing, trim, and finish work
Giving a kit as a gift? See our cordless drill gift sets guide for complete drill and impact driver kits that include batteries.
FAQ
What should I look for in a cordless tool combo kit?
Focus on three things: battery platform (choose a brand you can commit to long-term), included tool mix (choose a drill and impact driver if your projects mainly need drilling and fastening), and what batteries come with it. Kits with two batteries are far more practical than single-battery kits -- you always have one charging while the other works. Avoid kits that include low-priority tools like work lights or oscillating tools unless those genuinely fit your work.
Is it better to buy a combo kit or individual tools?
Combo kits can offer value when you need the tools and batteries included. Compare the current full-kit price with the tools and packs you would otherwise buy separately. The trade-off is that you get the tools the manufacturer decided to bundle, not necessarily your exact wish list. If you already own batteries and need one specific tool, buy it bare. If you are starting fresh, a kit wins.
DeWalt vs Milwaukee vs Makita combo kits -- which platform is best?
Compare the exact tools, included batteries, service support and current prices for the projects you expect to do. A brand-wide ranking cannot establish the best kit for every buyer. See our Makita vs Milwaukee comparison for more platform considerations.
How many tools do I actually need in a combo kit?
For most homeowners and DIYers, a 2-tool drill and impact driver combo covers the vast majority of jobs. Adding a circular saw expands the kit substantially for woodworking and renovation. A reciprocating saw rounds out demolition and rough carpentry. Beyond 4 tools, value diminishes quickly unless you have specific needs for every included tool. Our recommendation: start with a 2 or 3-tool kit and add tools individually as you identify the need.
Related Combo Kit Guides
- Best Cordless Combo Kit Under $400 -- Tested kits for homeowners who don't want to overspend
- Ryobi vs DeWalt Cordless Tools -- Value vs professional grade -- which to choose
- DeWalt 20V MAX vs 60V FLEXVOLT -- When the FLEXVOLT battery upgrade matters
- Best Cordless Tool Combo Kit for New Homeowners -- Full starter kit picks for the first home purchase
- Best Cordless Tool Combo Kit for a New Homeowner -- Alternate breakdown by budget tier
Sources and Correction
- Milwaukee 3697-22 manufacturer package
- Bosch GXL18V-496B22 manufacturer package
- Makita XT507PG product page, discontinued
Correction, October 5, 2026: Corrected the Milwaukee 3697-22 and Bosch GXL18V-496B22 package contents, removed the discontinued Makita XT507PG and the unverified DEWALT DCK700D1P1 pick, removed unsupported decimal ratings, and revised the guide to three kits. Current retailer prices and availability have not been verified.
Additional correction: Removed unverified Milwaukee 3697-24MT and DeWalt DCK489D2 package recommendations. The guide now compares only the three listed, sourced bundles; retailer prices and stock have not been checked.
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George Perkins writes ToolShed Tested from his home shop in North Carolina, where he buys and uses the tools he covers. Articles say plainly which tools he has used himself and which picks rest on research. This guide is research-based: the picks come from manufacturer specs, manuals, warranty terms and owner feedback, not from George using each model.
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