Milwaukee M18 Battery Comparison
Table of contents
Welcome to our comprehensive buying guide, where we dive deep into the Milwaukee M18 battery lineup, designed to supercharge your Milwaukee tools and keep them running at peak performance.
From compact and extended capacity to high-output batteries, we'll explore their features, applications, and real-world advantages. We examine the Milwaukee M18 battery ecosystem, giving you the knowledge to make informed choices and keep your tools charged and ready to go.
Simplifying Battery Power: Volts vs. Amp-Hours and What They Mean for Your Tools
Understanding volts and amp-hours is essential because these two metrics provide distinct insights into the performance and runtime of your power tools.
- Volts: Think of volts as the measurement of tool power. It quantifies the power a battery can deliver at a given time. The higher the voltage rating, the more powerful your tool will be. So, if you're tackling demanding tasks that require substantial power, opting for a higher-voltage tool is a wise choice.
- Amp Hours (Ah): Conversely, Amp-hours represent the battery's runtime. This metric can be likened to the 'fuel tank' of the battery. A higher amp-hour rating means a larger 'fuel tank,' allowing you to run your cordless power tool on a single charge for a more extended period. If you have projects that demand longer operating times between charges, selecting a battery with a higher amp-hour rating is the way to go.
It's important to note that several factors within your power tool also influence how efficiently it transfers power from the battery and how long it can operate on one charge. These factors must be considered to ensure that your chosen battery aligns with the specific requirements of your project.
The Milwaukee M18 Battery Trio: CP, XC, and HD
Compact Power (CP) Batteries
The CP batteries are for individuals seeking lightweight and efficient power solutions. Packed with 5 Li-ion cells compatible with M12 and M18 tools, these compact batteries are designed to shine in tasks with moderate power demands and repetitive operations. As a result, they prove to be the perfect match for tools such as Screw Guns, Cable Cutters, and Drain Snakes.
Extended Capacity (XC) Batteries
Milwaukee XC batteries are your go-to solution for extended runtime and enhanced performance. With 10 Li-ion cells, these batteries provide extended run-time due to their larger size, making them ideal for powering demanding applications.
High Demand (HD) Batteries
HD batteries are exclusive to the M18 tool lineup and are built for high-demand situations. These batteries housing 15 Li-ion cells provide top-tier performance in high-draw equipment and tasks that require extended runtime, such as working with Rotary Hammers, Right Angle Drills, or String Trimmers. Unlike the CP and XC batteries, the HD series has upgraded battery technology to boost power and runtime significantly.
Key Features of Milwaukee Batteries
- Superior Pack Construction: With top-tier pack construction, electronics, and overall performance, this battery delivers exceptional work per charge and extends its work-life far beyond what you'd find elsewhere.
- Durable Design: Built for heavy-duty use, it remains resilient even in demanding conditions and operates reliably in temperatures as low as 0°F/-18°C.
- Compact and Lightweight: Its compact design allows you to maneuver easily in tight workspaces while minimizing fatigue during extended projects.
- REDLINK Intelligence: The integrated REDLINK Intelligence provides overload protection, ensuring your cordless power tools are safe during heavy-duty use.
- Discharge Protection: Prevents cell damage, enhancing the battery's lifespan.
- Temperature Management: An integrated temperature management system and individual cell monitoring contribute to maximizing the battery's life.
Milwaukee M18 Battery Comparison Chart
| Key Attributes | 2.0 Ah | 3.0 Ah | 4.0 Ah | 5.0 Ah | 5.0 XC | 6.0 Ah | 8.0 Ah | 12.0 Ah |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| REDLINK Technology | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Discharge Protection | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Fuel gauge onboard | Included. | Included. | Included. | Included. | Included. | Included. | Included. | Included. |
| Overload Protection | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Weight | .95 lbs. | 1.33 lbs. | 1.6 lbs. | 1.54 lbs. | 1.6 lbs | 2.3 lbs. | 2.33 lbs. | 3.42 lbs. |
| All-weather performance | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Watt Hours | 36 Wh | 54 Wh | 72 Wh | 90 Wh | 90 Wh | 108 Wh | 144 Wh | 216 Wh |
| High Output | No | Yes | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Lithium-ion cells | 18650 | 21700 | 18650 | 18650 | 18650 | 21700 | 21700 | 21700 |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years |
Milwaukee M18 2.0 Ah RedLithium CP2.0 Battery
The Milwaukee M18 2.0 Ah RedLithium CP2.0 Battery is the smallest and most budget-friendly option in the lineup, offering lightweight convenience and 2.0 amp-hours of runtime to enhance the performance and durability of your Milwaukee M18 cordless tools.
Product Specifications:
- Battery Type: 18 Volt Lithium Ion
- Amp Hour: 2 Ah
- Battery System: M18
- Voltage: 18V
- Warranty: 2 Year Limited Warranty
Milwaukee M18 3.0 Ah RedLithium High Output CP3.0 Battery
The Milwaukee M18 3.0 Ah RedLithium High Output CP3.0 Battery Pack provides the same power as an M18 REDLITHIUM XC3.0 extended capacity battery but in a lighter and more compact package. This makes it perfect for tackling tight spots and overhead work, giving you the versatility you need for various tasks.
What sets it apart:
- Unmatched Power and Cooling: Offering the same power and runtime as an M18 REDLITHIUM XC battery but in a lighter and more compact package, this 18-volt battery delivers exceptional performance while staying cool even during heavy-duty applications.
- Fade-Free Power: Say goodbye to power fades; this battery provides consistent, fade-free power, ensuring your tools perform consistently throughout various applications.
- Full Compatibility: Fully compatible with all Milwaukee M18 solutions, it can power your cordless tools without limitations.
Product Specifications
- Battery Type: 18 Volt Lithium-Ion
- Amp Hour: 3 Ah
- Battery Line: HIGH OUTPUT
- Battery System: M18
- Voltage: 18V
- Warranty: 2 Year Limited Warranty
- Length: 5.31 in
- Weight: 1.33 lb
- Height: 2.31 in
- Width: 3.3 in
Milwaukee M18 4.0 Ah RedLithium XC Extended Capacity Battery
The Milwaukee M18 4.0 Ah RedLithium XC Extended Capacity Battery Pack is reliable and is ideal for users who don't prioritize weight when choosing a lower amp-hour option. While it provides up to 2 times more runtime, a notable 20% boost in power, and double the recharges compared to standard lithium-ion batteries, it may not be the best choice for those with all-day work demands. For users requiring extended usage, we recommend the higher amp-hour options for more sustained performance.
Product Specifications
- Battery Type: 18 Volt Lithium-Ion
- Amp Hour: 4 Ah
- Battery System: M18
- Voltage: 18V
- Warranty: 3 Year Limited Warranty
Milwaukee M18 5.0 Ah RedLithium XC5.0 Extended Capacity Battery
The Milwaukee M18 5.0 Ah RedLithium XC5.0 Extended Capacity Battery is a lithium-ion battery pack known for its versatility. It serves as a reliable workhorse for a wide range of users. This battery offers extended runtime, a 20% power increase, and increased recharges compared to standard lithium-ion batteries, making it a popular choice.
Product Specifications:
- Battery Type: 18 Volt Lithium-Ion
- Amp Hour: 5 Ah
- Battery Line: REDLITHIUM
- FULL Recharge Time Standard Charger: 105 min
- FULL Recharge Time Rapid Charger: 60 min
- Battery Branding: REDLITHIUM
- Oil Resistance: No
- FULL Recharge Time Super Charger: 60 min
- Fuel Gauge: Yes
- Runtime: 5 Ah
- Voltage: 18V
- Warranty: 3 Year Limited Warranty
- Length: 4.5 in
- Weight: 1.54 lb
- Height: 2.8 in
- Width: 3.1 in
Milwaukee M18 REDLITHIUM XC5.0 Resistant Battery
The Milwaukee M18 REDLITHIUM XC5.0 Resistant Battery is the solution for those working in demanding environments like transportation maintenance and manufacturing. This battery is designed with a resistant housing that offers increased protection against common oils, greases, and solvents in these tough trades.
Key Features:
- Resistant housing, fuel gauge, and side labels for protection in challenging environments.
- Explicitly designed for transportation maintenance and manufacturing trades
- Offers up to 2.5 times more runtime and 20% more power than standard lithium-ion batteries
- Compatible with over 200 M18 solutions
Product Specifications:
- Battery Type: 18 Volt Lithium Ion
- Amp Hour: 5 Ah
- Battery Line: Resistant
- Battery System: M18
- Voltage: 18V
- Warranty: 3 Year Limited Warranty
Milwaukee 6.0 Ah RedLithium High Output XC6.0 Battery
The Milwaukee 6.0 Ah RedLithium High Output XC6.0 Battery Pack takes it up a notch with 1Ah more capacity than the previous model. This high output capacity means they offer 50% more power than standard m18 batteries, delivering even more performance and efficiency for your tools.
Product Specifications:
- Battery Type: 18 Volt Lithium-Ion
- FULL Recharge Time Standard Charger: 119 min
- FULL Recharge Time Rapid Charger: 64 min
- Oil Resistance: No
- FULL Recharge Time Super Charger: 35 min
- Fuel Gauge: Yes
- Runtime: 6 Ah
- Badge Branding: REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT
- Battery System: M18
- Voltage: 18V
- Warranty: 3 Year Limited Warranty
- Length: 5.46 in
- Weight: 2.38 lb
- Height: 3.25 in
- Width: 3.33 in
Milwaukee M18 8.0 Ah RedLithium High Output XC8.0 Battery
The Milwaukee 48-11-1880 M18 REDLITHIUM High Output XC8.0 Battery Pack offers 60% more runtime than the M18 REDLITHIUM XC5.0, ensuring more work is done per charge than any other XC battery.
Product Specifications:
- Battery Type: 18 Volt Lithium-Ion
- Amp Hour: 8 Ah
- Battery Line: HIGH OUTPUT
- Battery System: M18
- Voltage: 18V
- Warranty: 3 Year Limited Warranty
- Pack Qty: 1
- Length: 5.46 in
- Weight: 2.33 lb
- Height: 3.22 in
- Width: 3.3 in
Milwaukee M18 12.0 Ah High Output HD12.0 Battery
The Milwaukee 48-11-1812 M18 REDLITHIUM High Output HD12.0 Battery Pack has a 50% increase in power vs. all other batteries in the lineup, generating 15A corded power, significantly elevating the performance of the entire M18 system.
This power boost drives the next breakthrough in M18 FUEL, enabling you to tackle even the toughest tasks. It delivers more power and runs 50% cooler through heavy applications, allowing you to push your cordless tools harder and longer than ever before.
With a remarkable 33% more runtime than other professional power tool batteries, it provides the work-per-charge you need for complete corded replacement on the job site. With the power to cut up to 750 cuts in 2x4 with the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Metal Cutting Circular Saw, this battery pack is a game-changer for professionals who demand top-notch performance from their tools.
Product Specifications:
- Battery Line: REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT
- FULL Recharge Time Standard Charger: 241
- FULL Recharge Time Rapid Charger: 130
- FULL Recharge Time Super Charger: 60
- Battery System: M18
- Length: 5.99 in
- Weight: 3.42 lb
- Height: 3.89 in
- Width: 3.4 in
Important Information from Milwaukee about the M18 12.0 Battery is that “Due to the physical size increase of the M18™ REDLITHIUM™ HIGH OUTPUT™ HD12.0, it does not fit the following tools before a 6/1/2018 manufacturing date without applicable service parts: 2787-20, 2788-20, 2771-20, 2122-20, 2130-20, 2135-20, 2361-20, 2145-20, 2146-20, 2360-20. Milwaukee is committed to protecting users’ investments, offering free service upgrades for the listed products to any customer who purchases an HD12.0 battery pack. Users may visit eService at Milwaukee Service Dashboard for available service upgrades.”
For more information about the Milwaukee 48-11-1812 M18 REDLITHIUM High Output HD12.0 Battery Pack, check out our blog focused on it.
Milwaukee M18 Battery Chargers
Now that you've chosen your battery, it's time to ensure that you have the right charger to keep the power flowing.
Milwaukee M18 & M12 Multi-Voltage Charger
The M18 and M12 Multi-Voltage Charger is your all-in-one solution for efficiently charging cordless tools.
This combination charger accommodates M18 and M12 battery packs, eliminating the inconvenience of lugging around multiple chargers.
It charges your batteries sequentially, ensuring you're always working with a full charge and communicates with the battery pack to monitor individual cell voltage, temperature, and charge status. It is versatile, reliable, and compatible with various M12 and M18 battery packs.
Product Specifications:
- Charger Type: Standard Charger
- Max Input Amps: 2.1 A
- Max Output Amps: 2.5 Ah
- Output Voltage: 18v
- Input Voltage: 120v
- Recommended Charging Temps: 40-105°F
- Number of Ports: 2
- Voltage: 12v and 18v
- Warranty: 5 Year Limited Warranty
- Length: 9.8 in
- Weight: 2.01 lb
- Height: 4 in
- Width: 7 in
Milwaukee M18 Dual Bay Simultaneous Rapid Charger
The M18 Dual Bay Simultaneous Rapid Charger can charge two battery packs simultaneously, and it does so over 3X faster than standard sequential chargers. It accepts all M18 batteries, making it a versatile choice for your tool collection.
Thanks to its REDLINK Intelligence, this charger communicates directly with M18 batteries, monitoring cell voltage, temperature, and charge status to optimize charge duration and pack lifespan. Its compact size and wall-mountable design make it convenient for use on the job site, in your work trailer, or even on the top shelf of a job box.
Product Specifications:
- Charger Type: Rapid Charger
- Max Input Amps: 5.5 A
- Max Output Amps: 6 Ah
- Output Voltage: 18v
- Input Voltage: 120v
- Recommended Charging Temps: 40-105°F
- Number of Ports: 2
- Sequential Simultaneous: Simultaneous
- Warranty: 5 Year Charger Warranty
- Length: 10.83 in
- Weight: 3.54 lb
- Height: 3.63 in
- Width: 7.25 in
Milwaukee M18/M12 Vehicle Charger
The Milwaukee M18 & M12 Vehicle Charger is your solution for charging battery packs while moving. This charger harnesses the DC Outlet of any vehicle, ensuring that your batteries are always ready to power your tools, no matter where you are. It's designed for full system compatibility, accepting all M18 and M12 batteries.
REDLINK Intelligence communicates directly with the battery, monitoring cell voltage, temperature, and charge status to optimize performance and extend the battery pack's lifespan.
What sets this charger apart is its protective electronics, which automatically shut down the charger to prevent excessive discharge of your vehicle's battery, providing peace of mind and convenience on the road.
Product Specifications:
- Charger Type: Standard Charger
- Battery System: M18
- Voltage: 12v and 18v
- Weight: 1.45 lbs
- Vehicle Charging: Plugs into vehicle 12V or 24V DC Outlet
- Charges all M18 & M12 Batteries: Full system compatibility
- Protective Electronics: Automatically shuts down charger to prevent excessive discharge of vehicle battery
Milwaukee M18 Six Pack Sequential Charger
The Milwaukee M18 Six Pack Sequential Charger brings efficiency to the forefront with its compact design and practical features.
Designed for maximum productivity, this charger can sequentially charge up to six batteries, allowing you to spend less time swapping out batteries and more time working on your projects.
It offers added convenience with integrated hang holes for vertical mounting, a pass-through plug to save outlet space, and a handy carrying handle for easy transport.
This charger is compatible with M18 compact batteries, delivering a 30-minute charge time and extended capacity (XC) batteries in just 60 minutes.
Product Specifications:
- Battery System: M18
- Voltage: 18V
- Warranty: 5 Year Limited Warranty
Milwaukee M18 PACKOUT Six Bay Rapid Charger
The Milwaukee M18 PACKOUT Six Bay RAPID Charger is the first dedicated charging solution designed to integrate with the Milwaukee PACKOUT modular storage system seamlessly.
This innovative charger allows you to charge two batteries simultaneously at a RAPID charge rate, providing up to 40% faster charging than other standard rate chargers from Milwaukee Tool. With six M18 bays, it streamlines your charging process, reducing downtime and ensuring your tools are always ready for action. This charger is optimized for transportation and storage, fitting effortlessly into your PACKOUT stack and featuring a convenient carrying handle.
It also includes a USB-A port for charging personal electronics and storage caddies to keep them organized. With the M18 PACKOUT Six Bay RAPID Charger, experience reduced downtime, unmatched portability, and improved cord management.
Product Specifications:
- Charger Type: Rapid Charger
- PACKOUT Compatible: Yes
- Input Voltage: 120
- Length: 15.1 in
- Weight: 7.91 lb
- Height: 12.12 in.
- Width: 9.76 in.
- Charging Ports: (6) M18
- Wall Mountable: Yes, via PACKOUT Mounting Plate, Wall Plate, & Racking Shelf (Refer to PACKOUT Mounting Plate user manual for mounting capacities)
- Packout Compatible: Yes
Milwaukee M18 PACKOUT Light/Charger
The Milwaukee M18 PACKOUT Light/Charger is a portable light that boasts an impressive 3000 Lumens of TRUEVIEW High Definition Output, ensuring you have excellent visibility on the job site.
Designed for versatility, it fully integrates with the PACKOUT Modular Storage System, making it suitable for both on-stack and off-stack use. With three independent rotating light heads, you have complete control over the direction of the illumination. The light offers nine modes, including high, medium, and low settings, and can run for up to 31 hours with one M18 REDLITHIUM XC 5.0 Battery.
Additionally, it features an AC input for continuous runtime and battery charging. The integrated 2.1AMP USB output allows you to charge your devices, while a storage compartment provides space for small items. With an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance, 180 degrees of vertical and 300 degrees of horizontal rotation, this light is built to withstand tough conditions.
Product Specifications:
- Tool Warranty: 5 Year Tool Warranty, LED Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Length: 16.8 in
- Weight: 11.42 lb
- Height: 8.6 in
- Width: 9.8 in
- Modes Lumens: High 3,000L / Medium 1,500L / Low 1,000L
- Run Time (All Light Panels): 4/8/12 Hours
- Run Time (Main Light Panel): 5.5/12/19 Hours
- Run Time (Front/Back Panels): 10/21.5/31 Hours
- Voltage: 18V
- USB Charging Port: Yes
- Battery Charging: Charges All M18 Batteries
- PACKOUT Compatible: Yes
Milwaukee M18 & M12 Rapid Charge Station
The Milwaukee M18 & M12 Rapid Charge Station sets the industry standard for fast charging solutions. This cutting-edge station can simultaneously charge three batteries, up to 4 times faster than standard chargers. It accepts a combination of (3) M18 and (3) M12 battery packs, drastically reducing downtime by minimizing the need for frequent battery swaps on the job site.
Designed for convenience, the station features integrated hang holes for vertical mounting, a pass-through plug to conserve outlet space and a handy carry handle for easy transportation.
Product Specifications:
- Charger Type: Rapid Charger
- Battery System: M18
- Voltage: 18V & 12V
- Warranty: 5 Year Limited Warranty
Charging Forward: Milwaukee's Battery and Charger Technology
In conclusion, the Milwaukee M18 battery lineup offers many options to power your cordless tools effectively. Understanding the nuances of volts and amp-hours is crucial to choosing the right battery.
The Milwaukee M18 batteries come in three main categories: CP, XC, and HD, each with unique features and applications. Selecting the right combination of Milwaukee M18 batteries and chargers will empower your cordless tools to deliver top-notch performance, making your work efficient and hassle-free.
Milwaukee M18 Battery Comparison Frequently Asked Questions
Are these batteries compatible with all M18 tools?
- Yes, the M18 REDLITHIUM XC5.0 and XC6.0 batteries are fully compatible with the range of M18 cordless tools, ensuring versatility across your tool collection.
What is the most powerful Milwaukee M18 battery?
- The REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT HD12 battery is Milwaukee’s most powerful M18 battery.
How long does it take to charge a Milwaukee m18 battery fully?
- The charger maintains direct communication with the battery pack, constantly monitoring cell voltage, temperature, and charge status to guarantee a complete charge. This means your Milwaukee compact batteries can be fully charged in 30 minutes and extended capacity batteries in 60 minutes without requiring additional chargers on the job site.
What's the advantage of the REDLITHIUM technology in Milwaukee M18 batteries?
- REDLITHIUM technology is designed to provide longer runtimes and better performance compared to standard lithium-ion batteries. It also offers overload protection, ensuring your tools and batteries are safe during heavy use.
What's the typical lifespan of a Milwaukee M18 battery?
- Milwaukee M18 batteries are designed to last. The lifespan varies depending on usage and conditions, but they are built to withstand hundreds of charge cycles before any noticeable decline in performance. Regular maintenance and proper charging practices can extend their lifespan further.
Can I charge Milwaukee M18 batteries partially, or do I need to fully discharge them before recharging?
- You can charge Milwaukee M18 batteries at any state of charge without needing to discharge them fully. Modern lithium-ion batteries have no memory effect, so partial charging is fine.