The Top 9 Power Tool Brands to Grab First
Craftsman
Is there a more legendary tool brand than Craftsman? It’s one of the top choices for power tools; chances are, your father, grandfather—or perhaps even your great-grandfather—owned at least one. Craftsman tool , and quite possibly even higher than that figure suggests. Established in 1927 as an exclusive tool line for Sears—where products from various reputable manufacturers were sold under the "Craftsman" label—this brand established itself based on reliability by providing a lifetime guarantee over many years. As of 2017, Craftsman came under ownership of Stanley Black & Decker; these two iconic tool corporations had previously united forces back in 2010.
When I consider the term "Craftsman," it brings to mind a handheld tool with various applications, at least from my perspective. Craftsman V20 wireless ratchet wrench It meets the requirements. The device offers a variable speed of up to 300 rotations per minute (RPM) along with 35 foot-pounds of torque. Additional features consist of the option to toggle between power-driven and hand-operated use, as well as an LED light designed to brighten the workspace. Undoubtedly, this is quite a versatile tool for any handyman.
The battery and charger are purchased separately, and the era of lifetime no-questions-asked warranties has ended; however, Craftsman still stands behind their product with a warranty. power tools for 12 months.
Power source: Battery powered | RPMs: 300 | Torque: 35 foot-pounds
DeWalt
A brand with roots tracing back to the 1920s, DeWalt became widely recognized within professional circles. These experts began recognizing the exceptional durability of DeWalt products, established in 1924 by Raymond DeWalt after he created the radial arm saw. In 1960, the company was acquired by Black & Decker—now part of the same family as Craftsman—and divested itself of its radial saw division in 1989. Just three years later, in an effort to revamp their high-end tools, Black & Decker relaunched this segment under the DeWalt label.
The top power tool manufacturers also provide reliable battery-operated, cordless alternatives. This is an area where DeWalt excels. One of their most highly rated products is from 20-volt Max XR impact driver With over 8,400 five-star reviews on Amazon, this tool boasts impressive specs including up to 3,400 RPM and 1,835 inch-pounds of torque, making it effortless to handle big screws. Additionally, the Max XR impact driver comes with three LEDs to ensure visibility, preventing you from working in the dark.
The battery and charger are purchased separately.
Power source: Battery powered | RPMs: 3,400 | Torque: 1,835 inch-pounds
Skil
Not every power tool comes without a cord. In certain situations, using a tool powered by 120-volt Alternating Current (AC) directly from a wall outlet might be more advantageous. Such tools generally offer greater performance and ensure steady energy supply instead of risking running out of charge mid-task. Should you desire reliable corded tools, Skil is highly recommended. The brand was established by Edmund Michel, known for his invention of the circular saw in 1924.
Unlike DeWalt, Skil continues to manufacture the tool that made their reputation—what they refer to as "the saw that constructed America." 15-amp 7.25-inch circular saw includes a 5,300-RPM engine, a carbide-tipped saw blade, an integrated dust removal system to maintain visibility along the cutting path, and a single-laser guide for precise, straight cuts.
Power source: Corded electric | RPMs: 5,300
Makita
One modest move for humanity, one tremendous stride for power tools. In 1969, the same year we set foot on the lunar surface, Makita introduced the world’s first rechargeable power tool: a battery-powered drill Not too shabby for a company that had just entered the power tool market 11 years prior! Since then, Makita and the entire power tool sector have not looked back, with Makita becoming one of the top power tool brands around.
The Makita XFD10Z rechargeable drill continues the legacy, incorporating 55 years of research and progress. The four-pole engine provides up to 480 inch-pounds of maximum torque. Additionally, this drill features a two-speed gearbox, offers protection against dust and water, and comes equipped with dual LED lights.
The battery and charger are purchased individually.
Power source: Battery powered | RPMs: 1,900 | Torque: 480 inch-pounds
Milwaukee
Milwaukee is another top-notch tool brand steeped in history. Established in 1924, it quickly became familiar to those who have served their nation; starting from the 1930s, Milwaukee began manufacturing tools for the U.S. Navy and stood out as one of the fastest-growing brands in 2022 .
If there's one revolutionary item that cemented Milwaukee's position in the pantheon of tool manufacturers (even though such an item doesn't officially exist yet, it certainly deserves to be recognized), it would have to be the Sawzall. reciprocating saw , launched in 1951. Milwaukee continues to manufacture Sawzalls presently, with the most favored model being the 2621-20 M18 , a cordless version equipped with a 3,000-RPM motor. This tool includes a rapid-locking blade clamp along with an all-metal gear box designed to protect it when dropped. Additionally, a counterbalance system minimizes vibration.
The battery and charger are purchased individually.
Power source: Battery powered | RPMs: 3,000
Bosch
Possibly the most varied company on our list, Bosch operates across multiple sectors including automotive, home appliances, industrial technology, energy conservation, and healthcare as well as power tools.
In 1927, their revolutionary power tool became the first one driven by electricity. hammer drill , intended for application on masonry and concrete surfaces. Bosch continues to produce this type of product even now. 11255VSR Bulldog It’s a corded drill capable of locking a chisel into 36 distinct positions. Additionally, it includes a variable-speed trigger, a clutch designed to disconnect the transmission when the drill bit becomes stuck, and balanced power output for both forward and reverse modes.
Power source: Corded electric | RPMs: 1,300 | Torque: 2 foot-pounds
Ryobi
Ryobi traces its origins back to World War II when it started as a die-casting firm. However, it was not until the 1980s that the company began producing its own branded items for customers, including power tools Given that Ryobi doesn’t have roots tracing back to a single groundbreaking invention from over a hundred years ago, they produce an extensive range of power tools. These items are consistently recognizable due to their distinct green color and prominent logos.
Its P601 The One+ cordless plunge base trim router It is one of its top-selling items. Featuring a 29,000-RPM motor, the P601 One+ is perfectly designed for specialized tasks. woodworking projects. It features a sturdy aluminum base for stability, rubber coating for a firm grip and a built-in depth adjustment knob.
The battery and charger are purchased separately.
Power source: Battery powered | RPMs: 29,000
Black & Decker
When it comes to top-notch power tool brands, Black & Decker is tough to outdo. Since its founding in 1910, it has maintained a presence in the market, although it isn’t quite as prominent nowadays. This reduced visibility can be attributed partly to the company's merger with Stanley in 2010, an event that relegated it to secondary status beneath the same corporate umbrella shared with prestigious labels like Craftsman and DeWalt.
As mentioned, Black & Decker continues to produce high-quality power tools, such as their iconic handheld, pistol-grip electric drill—an innovation they introduced back in 1917. In recognition of this legacy, we recommend one of the brand’s models. corded model DR260C It’s a simple, affordably priced device equipped with a 5.2-amp engine capable of reaching up to 1,500 revolutions per minute. The tool features built-in storage within its handle for an additional drill bit and is backed by a two-year limited warranty from the manufacturer.
Power source: Battery powered | RPMs: 1,500
Ridgid
Ridgid has been manufacturing tools for over a century and is particularly famous for hand-operated tools such as plumber’s wrenches. Nevertheless, after being acquired by Emerson Electric, Ridgid also entered the market of power tools.
Ridgid's product range continues to be heavily skewed towards plumbing equipment as well as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning ( HVAC ) tools. One of their top sellers is its 120-volt drain-cleaning machine kit Including this gadget in your toolkit significantly reduces the need for plumber visits since it can unclog sinks, bathtubs, and showers using a powerful 450 RPM motor, a 30-foot internal cable, and a dual-part guide hose. Additionally, this specific set comes equipped with a toilet auger featuring a durable 3-foot flexible rod and a bulb-shaped end designed to navigate through tough blockages.
Power source: Battery powered | RPMs: 450
How We Selected the Top Power Tool Manufacturers
To select the premier power tool brands, I initially compiled a list of 20 manufacturers and whittled it down to an elite group of eight, considering factors like sales figures and consumer contentment reflected in Amazon reviews and rankings. Additionally, I contacted a local handyman for further insights and suggestions which helped finalize our choices.
Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Power Tool Brand
- Corded or cordless: Think about whether the ease of use offered by cordless tools justifies the hassle and expense associated with batteries and charging. Often, this trade-off makes sense; however, for certain devices, you might discover that being connected to an electrical outlet works perfectly well for your needs.
- Storage: Consider the location and manner in which you'll do it. save the new power tool When it's not in use, remember that your budget remains a crucial factor. Within practical limits, always aim to purchase the highest quality possible, otherwise, you'll likely spend more over time.
- Customer satisfaction: Consider what those who invested their savings and are now using the product have to share.
- Warranty: This holds significant weight in the realm of power tools, where issues can arise beyond it being merely a cast piece of metal. A warranty shorter than 12 months should raise concerns. However, warranties spanning two to three years are highly appealing.
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