Best Power Tool Combo Sets, Top Picks, Guide and Reviews

However, DeWalt has recently taken some pretty admirable steps towards expanding the output of their devices in the United States. In 2013 alone, the company has opened seven new manufacturing facilities in the US – in Tennessee, S. Carolina, N. Carolina, Kentucky, Maryland, Indiana, and Connecticut.

It is also worth mentioning that DeWalt’s parent company, Black & Decker, goes even farther back than DeWalt itself (1910) and is also a well-known household name. As you can already guess, the combination of these two names can produce only good things – and that is precisely what DeWalt’s power tools and power tool combo kits are.

One particularly noteworthy thing about this company is that they have a continually expanding 20V Max lineup, as well as many 120V Max FlexVolt and 60V Max tools and technologies that are innovative and truly game-changing. Their 3-speed brushless drills are especially popular, particularly with the professionals – their size, features, as well as the reasonable performance, have turned them into bestsellers. DeWalt also has an increasing selection of unique specialty tools on offer – such as the threaded rod cutter and the brushless framing nailer.

On the other hand, a mediocre 12V Max lineup is probably the biggest downside of DeWalt. It is simply inevitable to wish for black and yellow variants of tools made by other brands, but, in most cases, they simply aren’t there.

When it comes to combo kits, the company offers a full range of them, allowing both the periodical and professional users to finish their projects with ease. Their kits come with high-performance tool combos that do their job without a hassle and are often accompanied by things such as chargers, battery packs, and bags/boxes for easy carry and storage. These power tools usually come with DeWalt’s industry-standard 3-year limited warranty – it’s always nice to know that some sort of a guarantee backs your tools, and DeWalt definitely delivers in that field.

When it comes to power tools, DeWalt is undoubtedly one of America’s most famous brands. Founded in 1924, it is now a trade name of Black & Decker and has its headquarters in Towson, Maryland. The original company was started by Raymond E. DeWalt, who is well-known as the inventor of the radial arm saw.

The power tools manufactured by this company are well-known for their black and yellow design, which is often associated with safety equipment and is something that helped propel the company’s popularity. They are also renowned for ergonomics – no other company makes tools that fit so well in hand. However, one of the most essential facts in the company’s history is that it successfully revolutionized the cordless, handheld power tool market back in the 90’s, with ergonomic and highly efficient lines of drills, drivers, saws, screwdrivers, and wrenches.

On the other hand, we can’t avoid mentioning that most American power tool manufacturers, including DeWalt, have “sold out” and outsourced most of their production to maximize profits, abandoning their traditional American roots in the process. However, DeWalt has recently taken some pretty admirable steps towards expanding the output of their devices in the United States. In 2013 alone, the company has opened seven new manufacturing facilities in the US – in Tennessee, S. Carolina, N. Carolina, Kentucky, Maryland, Indiana, and Connecticut.

It is also worth mentioning that DeWalt’s parent company, Black & Decker, goes even farther back than DeWalt itself (1910) and is also a well-known household name. As you can already guess, the combination of these two names can produce only good things – and that is precisely what DeWalt’s power tools and power tool combo kits are.

One particularly noteworthy thing about this company is that they have a continually expanding 20V Max lineup, as well as many 120V Max FlexVolt and 60V Max tools and technologies that are innovative and truly game-changing. Their 3-speed brushless drills are especially popular, particularly with the professionals – their size, features, as well as the reasonable performance, have turned them into bestsellers. DeWalt also has an increasing selection of unique specialty tools on offer – such as the threaded rod cutter and the brushless framing nailer.

On the other hand, a mediocre 12V Max lineup is probably the biggest downside of DeWalt. It is simply inevitable to wish for black and yellow variants of tools made by other brands, but, in most cases, they simply aren’t there.

When it comes to combo kits, the company offers a full range of them, allowing both the periodical and professional users to finish their projects with ease. Their kits come with high-performance tool combos that do their job without a hassle and are often accompanied by things such as chargers, battery packs, and bags/boxes for easy carry and storage. These power tools usually come with DeWalt’s industry-standard 3-year limited warranty – it’s always nice to know that some sort of a guarantee backs your tools, and DeWalt definitely delivers in that field.

Makita

Of all Japanese manufacturers of power tools, Makita is probably the most famous. The signature green color of their products is synonymous with excellent performance, durability, and reasonable prices – it’s no wonder that the company’s annual sales measure in billions of dollars.

Founded all the way back in 1915, Makita now operates factories all over the world – in Mexico, Germany, Brazil, China, Canada, United Kingdom, Romania, and, of course, Japan. The headquarters are located in Anjō, Japan, where Makita started as a simple repair company more than 100 years ago. Nowadays, Makita is a highly innovative company – they have, for example, manufactured the first brushless motor fastening tools for aerospace and defense industries back in 2004.

However, the most crucial point in the history of this company is in the late 70’s, when Makita was the world’s very first company to introduce cordless tools. We think that it’s pretty safe to say that this gives them the right to call themselves the biggest innovators in the history of power tools. So, even though DeWalt is the one that revolutionized the cordless tools market some 30 years ago, it was Makita that engineered these things in the first place.

The cordless tools manufactured by this company are engineered for industrial applications, which is precisely why Makita equips most of them with their signature STAR protection computer controls. It’s a communication technology whose job is to monitor conditions during use, preventing things like overheating, over discharging and overloading. Another innovative feature of Makita power tools is the XPT (Extreme Protection Technology), a series of integrated seals that increase durability by channeling away water and dust.

Besides these innovative features, the company is also well-known for having a very broad (and still expanding) product selection – there’s a powerful Makita tool for everyone’s needs. Makita’s lines of cordless products are very competitive, and there is a steady stream of entirely new machines and devices that keep users well-equipped and happy. One particularly noteworthy thing is how fast Makita’s battery chargers are.

On the downside, we have to mention that the company can sometimes be somewhat slow when it comes to adapting to new trends (such as battery fuel gauges). Moreover, a vast selection of their products can sometimes be genuinely overwhelming – having too many tools to choose from, with their differences being challenging to identify, isn’t always a good thing.

Having a good Makita power tool is nice, but there is nothing more versatile and convenient than having a kit that contains all of your most common tools. That is precisely where the combo tool kits of this company come into their own. Each Makita bundle is always designed to tackle a specific task or a set of tasks – from hand vacuums, strimmers, multi-tools, cordless drill sets, and more. Both the boxes/bags and the components inside them are always well-made and quite durable, allowing Makita to be yet another Japanese manufacturer that contributes to the common belief that the tools coming from this country are among the world’s best.

Of all Japanese manufacturers of power tools, Makita is probably the most famous. The signature green color of their products is synonymous with excellent performance, durability, and reasonable prices – it’s no wonder that the company’s annual sales measure in billions of dollars.

Founded all the way back in 1915, Makita now operates factories all over the world – in Mexico, Germany, Brazil, China, Canada, United Kingdom, Romania, and, of course, Japan. The headquarters are located in Anjō, Japan, where Makita started as a simple repair company more than 100 years ago. Nowadays, Makita is a highly innovative company – they have, for example, manufactured the first brushless motor fastening tools for aerospace and defense industries back in 2004.

However, the most crucial point in the history of this company is in the late 70’s, when Makita was the world’s very first company to introduce cordless tools. We think that it’s pretty safe to say that this gives them the right to call themselves the biggest innovators in the history of power tools. So, even though DeWalt is the one that revolutionized the cordless tools market some 30 years ago, it was Makita that engineered these things in the first place.

The cordless tools manufactured by this company are engineered for industrial applications, which is precisely why Makita equips most of them with their signature STAR protection computer controls. It’s a communication technology whose job is to monitor conditions during use, preventing things like overheating, over discharging and overloading. Another innovative feature of Makita power tools is the XPT (Extreme Protection Technology), a series of integrated seals that increase durability by channeling away water and dust.

Besides these innovative features, the company is also well-known for having a very broad (and still expanding) product selection – there’s a powerful Makita tool for everyone’s needs. Makita’s lines of cordless products are very competitive, and there is a steady stream of entirely new machines and devices that keep users well-equipped and happy. One particularly noteworthy thing is how fast Makita’s battery chargers are.

On the downside, we have to mention that the company can sometimes be somewhat slow when it comes to adapting to new trends (such as battery fuel gauges). Moreover, a vast selection of their products can sometimes be genuinely overwhelming – having too many tools to choose from, with their differences being challenging to identify, isn’t always a good thing.

Having a good Makita power tool is nice, but there is nothing more versatile and convenient than having a kit that contains all of your most common tools. That is precisely where the combo toolkits of this company come into their own. Each Makita bundle is always designed to tackle a specific task or a set of tasks – from hand vacuums, strimmers, multi-tools, cordless drill sets, and more. Both the boxes/bags and the components inside them are always well-made and quite durable, allowing Makita to be yet another Japanese manufacturer that contributes to the common belief that the tools coming from this country are among the world’s best.

Due to the fact that they’ve been making tools for more than 100 years, it is no wonder that their corded and cordless drills are regularly updated and improved in all areas where possible. When we combine this with the affordable price (not offered by some other brands) we can easily see why Black & Decker tools are so popular with the users. It all started in Baltimore, and now it’s a worldwide known brand.

However, it should still be mentioned that B&D was a struggling brand for a while. Due to too many product variations and the lack of a strong brand position, the owners of Black & Decker hired a design company to help them redefine the brand. This is why the company now has a more straightforward and friendlier new logo, as well as the simplified and streamlined design of their latest power tools. Nowadays, their devices are more consistent and iconic, and the “Tough Guy” look has been completely abandoned. Even though this decision has brought a danger of alienating long-time fans, the risk has already paid off.

In some cases, power tools manufactured by B&D come with accessories, and these are known as combination kits. Just like most other power tool manufacturers, the Black & Decker also sells their drills and drivers in combo kits, most of which are of excellent quality and highly cost-effective. Their BDCDMT1206KITC combo kit is an excellent example of this – it’s a beautifully packed all-in-one kit that allows one to tackle all kinds of jobs around the household. The company sells many combo kits such as this one, and each of them contains quality tools that work just as advertised, as well as some useful accessories that make life easier.

Historically, this company has always had a pretty strong hold on the market of power tools. Founded as a Baltimore machine shop in 1910 by S. Duncan Black and Alonzo G. Decker (hence the name), Black & Decker was the company that invented the first pistol grip drill seven years later. Over time, their products grew to be so well-respected that they were used by NASA on their Apollo and Mercury missions.

DeWalt, which we already mentioned, was acquired by Black & Decker in 1960. The company markets DeWalt tools as their top-of-the-line products; while their own Black & Decker devices serve as middle-of-the-road series. Some products are manufactured for one line only, and some overlap, such as hand drills. Does that mean that B&D tools are worse than those sold under DeWalt name?

Actually, it doesn’t. Even though there aren’t as many die-hard B&D fans, that doesn’t necessarily mean that the power tools manufactured under this name are not good. The company’s older NiCad battery-operated drills were of excellent quality and phenomenally durable. Unlike some of DeWalt power tools, most Black & Decker devices are never an overkill for an average homeowner – they are versatile, simple to use, and can be utilized for a myriad of applications.

Due to the fact that they’ve been making tools for more than 100 years, it is no wonder that their corded and cordless drills are regularly updated and improved in all areas where possible. When we combine this with the affordable price (not offered by some other brands) we can easily see why Black & Decker tools are so popular with the users. It all started in Baltimore, and now it’s a worldwide known brand.

However, it should still be mentioned that B&D was a struggling brand for a while. Due to too many product variations and the lack of a strong brand position, the owners of Black & Decker hired a design company to help them redefine the brand. This is why the company now has a more straightforward and friendlier new logo, as well as the simplified and streamlined design of their latest power tools. Nowadays, their devices are more consistent and iconic, and the “Tough Guy” look has been completely abandoned. Even though this decision has brought a danger of alienating long-time fans, the risk has already paid off.

In some cases, power tools manufactured by B&D come with accessories, and these are known as combination kits. Just like most other power tool manufacturers, the Black & Decker also sells their drills and drivers in combo kits, most of which are of excellent quality and highly cost-effective. Their BDCDMT1206KITC combo kit is an excellent example of this – it’s a beautifully packed all-in-one kit that allows one to tackle all kinds of jobs around the household. The company sells many combo kits such as this one, and each of them contains quality tools that work just as advertised, as well as some useful accessories that make life easier.

Porter-Cable

This company was founded in 1906 by F.E. Cable, G. G. Porter, and R.E. Porter, who invested $2,000 into a tool shop that they ran out of a garage. More than one hundred years later, Porter-Cable is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of power tools – the black/red/grey color combination of their devices is immediately recognizable.

The company rose to fame in the 1920’s by introducing the handheld circular saw, as well as by having one of the world’s finest lines of electric belt sanders. This brand name can’t really be discussed without mentioning Art Emmons, who was responsible for the design/engineering of Porter-Cable for nearly four decades (until the early 1960’s). He managed to almost single-handedly build the company into a renowned and recognizable brand that it is today.

When Mr. Emmons retired, the company was sold to the Rockwell Company, who wiped out the name and decided to drastically cut back on the quality and production costs. They did this to compete with budget home power tools manufactured by Black & Decker, and it was not a good idea. Fortunately, the revival took place in mid-80s when Rockwell’s power tool division was bought by Pentair, who brought the Porter-Cable brand back and immediately increased the quality of its products.

Nowadays, the company doesn’t have a market position that is as strong as that of DeWalt or Bosch but still manages to successfully compete with rivals such as Ryobi or Ridgid. Porter-Cable mostly focuses on homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, as well as on value-minded professionals who want their tools to be reasonably priced but still powerful and efficient. Their 20V Max lineup started off with great impact drivers and drills, but then grew with budget-oriented tools that have been developed with lower pricing as the focus. However, the company’s portfolio is still quite impressive – they offer excellent drills, impact drivers, and nailers.

This value-approach is also present in the company’s new marketing message – speed, ease of use, ergonomics, and value. We can safely confirm that all other segments of this motto are accurate – the power tools manufactured by Porter-Cable always come with an ergonomic grip, they are very simple to use, and efficient enough to help you deal with most DIY tasks. When we combine this with the already mentioned affordable prices, we can easily see why are the P+C power tools considered as some of the best by so many DIY enthusiasts.

Having been in business for more than 100 years, Porter-Cable undoubtedly understands precisely what users look for in tools. This can be seen in their combo kits, which always contain tools and accessories that feature extended battery life, excellent ergonomics, low weight, exceptional durability, and other key elements. Is this brand for you? The only way to find an answer to that question is to do some research on your own – do this by checking out our reviews of the best Porter-Cable combo kits. We certainly wouldn’t hesitate to advise giving one of their power tools a shot, but that’s entirely up to you.

This company was founded in 1906 by F.E. Cable, G. G. Porter, and R.E. Porter, who invested $2,000 into a tool shop that they ran out of a garage. More than one hundred years later, Porter-Cable is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of power tools – the black/red/grey color combination of their devices is immediately recognizable.

The company rose to fame in the 1920’s by introducing the handheld circular saw, as well as by having one of the world’s finest lines of electric belt sanders. This brand name can’t really be discussed without mentioning Art Emmons, who was responsible for the design/engineering of Porter-Cable for nearly four decades (until the early 1960’s). He managed to almost single-handedly build the company into a renowned and recognizable brand that it is today.

When Mr. Emmons retired, the company was sold to the Rockwell Company, who wiped out the name and decided to drastically cut back on the quality and production costs. They did this to compete with budget home power tools manufactured by Black & Decker, and it was not a good idea. Fortunately, the revival took place in mid-80s when Rockwell’s power tool division was bought by Pentair, who brought the Porter-Cable brand back and immediately increased the quality of its products.

Nowadays, the company doesn’t have a market position that is as strong as that of DeWalt or Bosch but still manages to successfully compete with rivals such as Ryobi or Ridgid. Porter-Cable mostly focuses on homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, as well as on value-minded professionals who want their tools to be reasonably priced but still powerful and efficient. Their 20V Max lineup started off with great impact drivers and drills, but then grew with budget-oriented tools that have been developed with lower pricing as the focus. However, the company’s portfolio is still quite impressive – they offer excellent drills, impact drivers, and nailers.

This value-approach is also present in the company’s new marketing message – speed, ease of use, ergonomics, and value. We can safely confirm that all other segments of this motto are accurate – the power tools manufactured by Porter-Cable always come with an ergonomic grip, they are very simple to use, and efficient enough to help you deal with most DIY tasks. When we combine this with the already mentioned affordable prices, we can easily see why are the P+C power tools considered as some of the best by so many DIY enthusiasts.

Having been in business for more than 100 years, Porter-Cable undoubtedly understands precisely what users look for in tools. This can be seen in their combo kits, which always contain tools and accessories that feature extended battery life, excellent ergonomics, low weight, exceptional durability, and other key elements. Is this brand for you? The only way to find an answer to that question is to do some research on your own – do this by checking out our reviews of the best Porter-Cable combo kits. We certainly wouldn’t hesitate to advise giving one of their power tools a shot, but that’s entirely up to you.

Even though some of their tools don’t look like they’re up to heavy-duty job site conditions, Ryobi offers a very high “bang for the buck,” as they have a very strong variety of specialty tools, core tools, problem-solvers, and innovations. For example, their airstrike nailers are especially well-regarded by hobbyists and professionals alike.

In our opinion, Ryobi’s 18V One+ lineup is particularly noteworthy. In the same class, there is Porter-Cable’s 20V Max lineup, some Black & Decker tools, and Craftsman’s C3 lineup – choosing a tool from Ryobi’s 18V One+ lineup over any of these is a wise decision. There are over 100 unique products in this lineup, giving the user the ultimate control and versatility to get the task done – whether we’re talking about cutting, drilling, driving, fastening, trimming, clearing, edging, cooling, plumbing, lighting, mowing, or any other operation. A good number of these devices are cordless and powered by lithium-ion technology, so it’s quite easy to use them everywhere and anywhere.

An important question to ask here is why Makita is seen as the best of the Japanese power tool manufacturers if Ryobi is so good? The answer is probably in the fact that Makita is its “own company” and isn’t owned by any larger corporate ownership, unlike Ryobi (owned by Techtronic Industries).

When it comes to power tools, we can safely say that the multi-tool combo kits generally represent the best value, and that’s precisely where the brands like Ryobi can save you a lot of money. The company combines some of their best-rated tools in such kits, and supplies them with useful accessories and carrying bags. Most of their combo kits come with a 3-year limited guarantee, which is a pretty good sign that Ryobi is quite confident in the quality of their products.

Just like many other Japanese companies of this type, Ryobi also manufactures more than just power tools – they make components for telecommunication and automobile industries, printing equipment, builders’ hardware, and many other things. However, they’re mostly known for their Ryobi Tools brand, which covers the power tools that are sold through Home Depot in the US, Bunnings Warehouse in Australia and New Zealand, and regular hardware stores in the UK.

The company was founded under the name of Ryobi Seisakusho Co., Ltd. in 1943. The production of power tools started more than 20 years later (in 1968). In 2018, Ryobi operates more than ten manufacturing facilities spread across six countries and is a well-known brand name in the world of DIY enthusiasts.

Nowadays, the company positions itself as a reasonably-priced “pro-featured” brand of power tools and often targets enthusiast users, homeowners, and DIY-ers. While lots of professionals use tools manufactured by this company, others can’t imagine doing so, calling it a DIY tool brand. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing – if you’re starting out as a hobbyist or a woodworker, or you just need a couple of tools for your daily jobs, Ryobi is an absolutely fine choice.

Even though some of their tools don’t look like they’re up to heavy-duty job site conditions, Ryobi offers a very high “bang for the buck,” as they have a very strong variety of specialty tools, core tools, problem-solvers, and innovations. For example, their airstrike nailers are especially well-regarded by hobbyists and professionals alike.

In our opinion, Ryobi’s 18V One+ lineup is particularly noteworthy. In the same class, there is Porter-Cable’s 20V Max lineup, some Black & Decker tools, and Craftsman’s C3 lineup – choosing a tool from Ryobi’s 18V One+ lineup over any of these is a wise decision. There are over 100 unique products in this lineup, giving the user the ultimate control and versatility to get the task done – whether we’re talking about cutting, drilling, driving, fastening, trimming, clearing, edging, cooling, plumbing, lighting, mowing, or any other operation. A good number of these devices are cordless and powered by lithium-ion technology, so it’s quite easy to use them everywhere and anywhere.

An important question to ask here is why Makita is seen as the best of the Japanese power tool manufacturers if Ryobi is so good? The answer is probably in the fact that Makita is its “own company” and isn’t owned by any larger corporate ownership, unlike Ryobi (owned by Techtronic Industries).

When it comes to power tools, we can safely say that the multi-tool combo kits generally represent the best value, and that’s precisely where the brands like Ryobi can save you a lot of money. The company combines some of their best-rated tools in such kits, and supplies them with useful accessories and carrying bags. Most of their combo kits come with a 3-year limited guarantee, which is a pretty good sign that Ryobi is quite confident in the quality of their products.

Ridgid

Ridgid is the brand name of the Ohio-based Ridge Tool Company, best known for their distinctive red pipe wrenches. Founded in 1923, the company relocated to its current location in 1943 and became a subsidiary of Emerson Electric in 1966. Nowadays, they manufacture more than 300 different types of tools, most of which are targeted at HVAC technicians, plumbers, and construction workers.

The company’s power tool division, on the other hand, is handled by TTI for Home Depot, under an arrangement with Emerson, Ridgid’s parent company. A few other OEMs make some of the company’s floor-standing and benchtop tools. While they usually don’t have all of the latest and greatest specifications and features, the power tools manufactured by Ridgid are quite good – they’re well-designed and highly durable.

One of the best things about their power tool selection is the growing 18V lineup, which contains some pretty unique and innovative devices. There’s a good balance between the price and performance here, while the company’s Limited Lifetime Service Agreement covers batteries, parts, and service – for life. It’s one of the most significant benefits of purchasing a tool made by Ridgid – knowing that your device is under lifetime warranty undoubtedly inspires confidence in the durability of the manufacturer’s products.

In case your DIY/woodworking needs are simple, Ridgid power tools might be the only power tools you’ll ever need. Some of the company’s tools and innovations, like the latest cordless air compressor, are bound to convince the fans of other brands to consider mixing some orange into their toolbox. The budget-friendly price in no way affects the quality of these devices – they’re sturdy, well-engineered, and long-lasting.

While on the subject of ruggedness, the tools manufactured by Ridgid have indeed been built to withstand the usual job site conditions. This kind of durability and sturdiness is quite rare in this price category and is usually reserved for the professional toolkits. Their power tools effortlessly tolerate mud, dirt, and all kinds of weather conditions without a drop in their performance level.

In case you’re wondering why this brand isn’t as famous as, say, Bosch, it is because Ridgid isn’t the best player in the area of innovation. They don’t roll out new products as frequently as the other companies, and that’s precisely why they’re not so well-known, even despite the efficiency and reliability of their tools. It is, in our opinion, one of the most under-advertised brands out there.

Those who can’t afford best-in-class tools should definitely consider purchasing one of Ridgid’s combo kits. The company has dozens of such packages on offer, and they come in all possible tool and accessory combinations. Each kit comes with a battery pack and the charger, as well as with a sturdy black & orange carrying bag for easier transportation and storage.

In conclusion, Ridgid manufactures top-notch tools and sells them at mid-range prices. Sounds like a good deal? Check out our reviews of their combo kits and see for yourself – you just might find what you were looking for.

Ridgid is the brand name of the Ohio-based Ridge Tool Company, best known for their distinctive red pipe wrenches. Founded in 1923, the company relocated to its current location in 1943 and became a subsidiary of Emerson Electric in 1966. Nowadays, they manufacture more than 300 different types of tools, most of which are targeted at HVAC technicians, plumbers, and construction workers.

The company’s power tool division, on the other hand, is handled by TTI for Home Depot, under an arrangement with Emerson, Ridgid’s parent company. A few other OEMs make some of the company’s floor-standing and benchtop tools. While they usually don’t have all of the latest and greatest specifications and features, the power tools manufactured by Ridgid are quite good – they’re well-designed and highly durable.

One of the best things about their power tool selection is the growing 18V lineup, which contains some pretty unique and innovative devices. There’s a good balance between the price and performance here, while the company’s Limited Lifetime Service Agreement covers batteries, parts, and service – for life. It’s one of the most significant benefits of purchasing a tool made by Ridgid – knowing that your device is under lifetime warranty undoubtedly inspires confidence in the durability of the manufacturer’s products.

In case your DIY/woodworking needs are simple, Ridgid power tools might be the only power tools you’ll ever need. Some of the company’s tools and innovations, like the latest cordless air compressor, are bound to convince the fans of other brands to consider mixing some orange into their toolbox. The budget-friendly price in no way affects the quality of these devices – they’re sturdy, well-engineered, and long-lasting.

While on the subject of ruggedness, the tools manufactured by Ridgid have indeed been built to withstand the usual job site conditions. This kind of durability and sturdiness is quite rare in this price category and is usually reserved for the professional toolkits. Their power tools effortlessly tolerate mud, dirt, and all kinds of weather conditions without a drop in their performance level.

In case you’re wondering why this brand isn’t as famous as, say, Bosch, it is because Ridgid isn’t the best player in the area of innovation. They don’t roll out new products as frequently as the other companies, and that’s precisely why they’re not so well-known, even despite the efficiency and reliability of their tools. It is, in our opinion, one of the most under-advertised brands out there.

Those who can’t afford best-in-class tools should definitely consider purchasing one of Ridgid’s combo kits. The company has dozens of such packages on offer, and they come in all possible tool and accessory combinations. Each kit comes with a battery pack and the charger, as well as with a sturdy black & orange carrying bag for easier transportation and storage.

In conclusion, Ridgid manufactures top-notch tools and sells them at mid-range prices. Sounds like a good deal? Check out our reviews of their combo kits and see for yourself – you just might find what you were looking for.

Throughout the company’s rich 90+ years of history, some of their tools have been genuinely game-changing and deserve the status of landmarks – such as the portable electric hacksaw, the Hole-Hawg high-torque drill, the Sawzall reciprocating saw, and many other devices. There are more than 500 different tools in the company’s portfolio today, as well as 3,500 accessories – it’s a number that exceeds those of all other power tool manufacturers. Pretty impressive, wouldn’t you say?

In our opinion, one of Milwaukee’s most significant accomplishments is the fact that it was the first company to introduce the Lithium-Ion technology, integrating it into their V28 line of cordless devices back in 2005. They have been able to achieve this due to their understanding of the constantly-changing market requirements and demands – they’ve matched them with proofs seen in M28, M18, and M12 series.

The company’s market philosophy is a clear and motivating one – Milwaukee sees itself as a “solution provider”. Their cordless lineups are remarkably appealing, both in performance and in design – the bright red signature color of their devices is immediately recognizable. Another admirable thing about Milwaukee is that most of their power tools come with a 5-year limited warranty, which is a significantly longer period than those provided by other manufacturers.

Milwaukee’s combo kits are among the best on the market – they provide an excellent value for the money and combine the company’s most efficient tools and accessories into packages that are great for both professional users and DIY beginners. Their M18 and M12 drills and drivers are often accompanied by fast battery chargers and handy carrying bags, and provide users fantastic durability, power, speed, and torque. It’s a company that keeps up with the trends, so it’s no wonder that their power tools are always on high demand.

Founded in 1924, Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation is one of America’s well-known manufacturers of power tools. It makes tools such as drilling and material elimination devices, thermal imaging items, leveling items, check and recognition pieces, lighting testers, compress meters, digital meters, chargers, as well as clipping and cutting instruments. However, the company is most famous for their cordless drills and drivers, which are competing with devices made by DeWalt, Bosch, and others.

As the name suggests, the company was founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where it started out as a primarily repair business, until it rose to prominence with the invention of a small electric hand drill. Ever since then, the company had changed owners several times, with the latest change taking place in 2005 when it was bought by a massive international conglomerate called Techtronic Industries.

In a way, this means that the company has “sold out” and abandoned its traditional American roots. However, that didn’t have a severe effect on the efficiency and durability of their tools – Milwaukee still successfully engineers and markets quality drills, grinders, sanders, and many other devices. This combination of old, unparalleled reliability and some fresh, innovative ideas has turned Milwaukee into a favorite brand of many handymen all over the world.

Throughout the company’s rich 90+ years of history, some of their tools have been genuinely game-changing and deserve the status of landmarks – such as the portable electric hacksaw, the Hole-Hawg high-torque drill, the Sawzall reciprocating saw, and many other devices. There are more than 500 different tools in the company’s portfolio today, as well as 3,500 accessories – it’s a number that exceeds those of all other power tool manufacturers. Pretty impressive, wouldn’t you say?

In our opinion, one of Milwaukee’s most significant accomplishments is the fact that it was the first company to introduce the Lithium-Ion technology, integrating it into their V28 line of cordless devices back in 2005. They have been able to achieve this due to their understanding of the constantly-changing market requirements and demands – they’ve matched them with proofs seen in M28, M18, and M12 series.

The company’s market philosophy is a clear and motivating one – Milwaukee sees itself as a “solution provider”. Their cordless lineups are remarkably appealing, both in performance and in design – the bright red signature color of their devices is immediately recognizable. Another admirable thing about Milwaukee is that most of their power tools come with a 5-year limited warranty, which is a significantly longer period than those provided by other manufacturers.

Milwaukee’s combo kits are among the best on the market – they provide an excellent value for the money and combine the company’s most efficient tools and accessories into packages that are great for both professional users and DIY beginners. Their M18 and M12 drills and drivers are often accompanied by fast battery chargers and handy carrying bags, and provide users fantastic durability, power, speed, and torque. It’s a company that keeps up with the trends, so it’s no wonder that their power tools are always on high demand.

Bosch

When talking about power tools, it’s impossible not to mention Bosch. For millions of people around the world, the name of this brand is synonymous with reliability, durability, and high-efficiency. It is one of the world’s most known companies when it comes to electric appliances, and an excellent example of how renowned and well-respected Germany’s industries are.

After being around for more than 130 years, it is quite easy to say that this company has a pretty deep history. Its story began in 1886 in Stuttgart, where the guy called Robert Bosch decided to create a “Workshop for Electrical Engineering and Precision Mechanics.” Here, the company has entered the business world with ignition systems and spark plugs.

As far as the tools go, the company got into this sector almost 50 years later, in 1932. This was when they invented the hammer drill, which was the world’s first device of this type that could rotate and strike at the same time. Throughout its history, Bosch had its hands in a myriad of different areas in business, from Telehealth to the automotive industry. Listing all of their innovations would take a lot of time, but a few examples include the first mobile hydraulic lift, the first electric fridge, anti-lock braking systems for cars, three-way catalytic converters, e-Bike drives, and hybrid car technology.

Nowadays, the Bosch group has four business sectors – energy & building technology, industrial technology, mobility solutions, as well as consumer goods (this is where the power tools are). The power tool division was started only 15 years ago, with most products being manufactured in China, Taiwan, Mexico, and Malaysia. However, some of their tools are still being made in Europe, specifically in the home country of Germany and in Switzerland.

You can rarely find Bosch power tool users complaining about power or performance, or any other kind of manufacturer’s negligence – it is, in simple terms, one of the best power tool brands out there. Bosch understands the need for absolute professionalism when it comes to complex projects, which is precisely why most of their devices are engineered to match the users’ expectations in strength, performance, speed, and reliability. The company is well-known for their certified Blue strength, compliance to all safety regulations, as well as for their constant innovations in the world of power tools.

Bosch continues to provide pretty solid “core tool” offerings and often comes out with updates and upgrades. Due to the high reputation of their products, Bosch’s main competitor is DeWalt – there are numerous discussions trying to determine which one of these brands is the best of the best. Both their 18 volts and 12 volts tools are exceptionally popular with the professional users, with their 12 volts devices having better performance and durability than most other tools of this type on the market.

When it comes to combo kits, those offered by Bosch only confirm that it’s one of the best brands out there, especially when we consider that they include heavy-duty bags and boxes for increased portability.

When talking about power tools, it’s impossible not to mention Bosch. For millions of people around the world, the name of this brand is synonymous with reliability, durability, and high-efficiency. It is one of the world’s most known companies when it comes to electric appliances, and an excellent example of how renowned and well-respected Germany’s industries are.

After being around for more than 130 years, it is quite easy to say that this company has a pretty deep history. Its story began in 1886 in Stuttgart, where the guy called Robert Bosch decided to create a “Workshop for Electrical Engineering and Precision Mechanics.” Here, the company has entered the business world with ignition systems and spark plugs.

As far as the tools go, the company got into this sector almost 50 years later, in 1932. This was when they invented the hammer drill, which was the world’s first device of this type that could rotate and strike at the same time. Throughout its history, Bosch had its hands in a myriad of different areas in business, from Telehealth to the automotive industry. Listing all of their innovations would take a lot of time, but a few examples include the first mobile hydraulic lift, the first electric fridge, anti-lock braking systems for cars, three-way catalytic converters, e-Bike drives, and hybrid car technology.

Nowadays, the Bosch group has four business sectors – energy & building technology, industrial technology, mobility solutions, as well as consumer goods (this is where the power tools are). The power tool division was started only 15 years ago, with most products being manufactured in China, Taiwan, Mexico, and Malaysia. However, some of their tools are still being made in Europe, specifically in the home country of Germany and in Switzerland.

You can rarely find Bosch power tool users complaining about power or performance, or any other kind of manufacturer’s negligence – it is, in simple terms, one of the best power tool brands out there. Bosch understands the need for absolute professionalism when it comes to complex projects, which is precisely why most of their devices are engineered to match the users’ expectations in strength, performance, speed, and reliability. The company is well-known for their certified Blue strength, compliance to all safety regulations, as well as for their constant innovations in the world of power tools.

Bosch continues to provide pretty solid “core tool” offerings and often comes out with updates and upgrades. Due to the high reputation of their products, Bosch’s main competitor is DeWalt – there are numerous discussions trying to determine which one of these brands is the best of the best. Both their 18 volts and 12 volts tools are exceptionally popular with the professional users, with their 12 volts devices having better performance and durability than most other tools of this type on the market.

When it comes to combo kits, those offered by Bosch only confirm that it’s one of the best brands out there, especially when we consider that they include heavy-duty bags and boxes for increased portability.

One particularly interesting thing about this brand is its signature color – dark blue. Most other brands tend to focus on the so-called “home improvement” colors, which are often yellow, black, and red. The blue color of Kobalt’s drills and drivers look unique and fresh – it’s yet another example of how new the brand is and how its owner, Lowe’s, wants to attract DIY beginners even by using a “fresh” color scheme.

So far, we haven’t seen a lot of complaints regarding their devices, although it does sting that the brand has almost abandoned their 20V and 18V Max lineups. On the other hand, their all-new 24V brushless power tools are quite impressive.

The design manager of Kobalt, Kip Pohlman, was the one who introduced this new 24V brushless lineup and explained the idea behind them. He spoke about the product development, research, and the design methodology of these tools, saying that they were created for the residential construction job sites. To design and engineer these 24V drills and impact drivers, the workers went out and interviewed as many professional users as they could, which resulted in new manufacturing ideas that led to new tools.

In our opinion, one of the best things about this brand-new lineup is that it includes new battery packs, which were devised to work under load in temperatures from -4° to 140°F. These battery packs went through a couple of environmental tests (drop test, weather tests, etc.) to ensure that they can meet the harsh job site expectations – the company is planning to have a firm stand behind the warranty on their new products.

Moreover, another great thing about the new 24V tools is that they can be purchased in combo kits (6-tool, 4-tool, and 2-tool). We have decided to take a closer look at them and have analyzed a couple of such packages in our reviews.

Of all the power tool manufacturers on our list, Kobalt is the youngest – this company was founded in 1998 and is owned by the improvement chain Lowe’s. The brand was launched 20 years ago with the intention of competing with The Home Depot and Sears, and their respective brands of power tools. In 2011, the company had expanded its production and started manufacturing cordless power tools, putting itself on the map and catching the attention of all those interested in the DIY business.

Due to the fact that Lowe’s already has two budget-friendly lines of tools and supplies (Blue Hawk and Task Force), the Kobalt brand includes power, mechanics, and hand tools that are of better quality and reliability. Kobalt has been expanding their lineup of 24V Max cordless tools, which is relatively new but still consists of so-called “core tools” – saws, drivers, and drills. Even though the devices under this brand name aren’t as budget-oriented as those coming from Task Force and Blue Hawk, their newness still makes them look like homeowner-focused in the eyes of many professional users.

One particularly interesting thing about this brand is its signature color – dark blue. Most other brands tend to focus on the so-called “home improvement” colors, which are often yellow, black, and red. The blue color of Kobalt’s drills and drivers look unique and fresh – it’s yet another example of how new the brand is and how its owner, Lowe’s, wants to attract DIY beginners even by using a “fresh” color scheme.

So far, we haven’t seen a lot of complaints regarding their devices, although it does sting that the brand has almost abandoned their 20V and 18V Max lineups. On the other hand, their all-new 24V brushless power tools are quite impressive.

The design manager of Kobalt, Kip Pohlman, was the one who introduced this new 24V brushless lineup and explained the idea behind them. He spoke about the product development, research, and the design methodology of these tools, saying that they were created for the residential construction job sites. To design and engineer these 24V drills and impact drivers, the workers went out and interviewed as many professional users as they could, which resulted in new manufacturing ideas that led to new tools.

In our opinion, one of the best things about this brand-new lineup is that it includes new battery packs, which were devised to work under load in temperatures from -4° to 140°F. These battery packs went through a couple of environmental tests (drop test, weather tests, etc.) to ensure that they can meet the harsh job site expectations – the company is planning to have a firm stand behind the warranty on their new products.

Moreover, another great thing about the new 24V tools is that they can be purchased in combo kits (6-tool, 4-tool, and 2-tool). We have decided to take a closer look at them and have analyzed a couple of such packages in our reviews.

Brushless Motors

Power tools with brushless motors are more efficient and provide the user with 50 percent longer run times than those with brushed motors. They are built in a way that prevents a physical connection between the parts, which leads to the elimination of wasted energy and friction. However, an important thing to keep in mind here is that they’re limited to impact wrenches, drills, and drivers, and brushless tools could typically cost $30 to $100 more than their brushed counterparts.

Fuel Gauges

These devices are real life-savers when it comes to tools powered by Lithium-Ion batteries. Not only do they allow you to determine the amount of remaining charge quickly, but they also extend the battery life by letting you recharge the battery before it’s fully discharged. All it takes is a simple push of a button to check the remaining power level.

Working Light

Do you often work in areas with low visibility? If you do, look at buying a combo kit that contains tools featuring LED work lights. They’re a useful addition for working in dimly lit areas and — if included in your tool set — will always be close at hand. 

Additional Accessories

Some companies supply their combo sets with accessories, such as carrying bags/boxes, extra blades, screwdrivers, additional drill bits, etc. While these extras sometimes make the kit more expensive, they can help supplement your workshop with everyday necessities that you might not otherwise think to buy.

Sticking with One Brand

Once you get inside the manufacturer’s ecosystem, it is far cheaper and easier to stay in it then to have various products manufactured by multiple brands. This is particularly true for the majority of cordless tools – buying a single battery and charger allows you to use those same devices with most of the other tools made by the same company. For example, the Ryobi 18V One+ lineup consists of more than 50 tools, and all of them use the exact same battery platform.

Conclusion

Purchasing a quality combo kit is often a better choice than buying one individual power tool after another. Not only does it save money in the long run, but it also allows you to supply your workshop with tools and accessories that you might need for future projects, whether it’s just some simple tasks around the house or professional woodworking.

Fortunately, all the leading power tool brands have a number of such kits on offer. In most cases, these sets contain the top-rated tools of a particular brand, as well as some well-designed and robust accessories that can come in very handy in certain situations.

For those who are not so familiar with these companies, we’ve included a guide that points out the advantages of each brand. You may think that a brand such as Kobalt, for example, has no place in the company of names like Bosch or DeWalt, but sometimes even “underdogs” have a lot to offer enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Don’t forget to check out our straightforward and unbiased reviews of the best power tool combo sets — you are sure to find a kit that will make your DIY sessions more efficient, productive and — above all — enjoyable.