Best Circular Saws: Corded, Cordless and Mini Models Compared by Job Type
Best circular saws compared by job type: corded 7-1/4 inch models, cordless DEWALT options and a mini saw, with a depth-of-cut example and safety tips.
Hardware Tool Shop Editorial Team
Best Volt Meters for 2026: Top Picks by Use
The best volt meter for most people is a compact auto-ranging digital multimeter rated CAT III 600V, such as the Klein Tools MM400 for general use or the Fluke 117 for professional electrical work. If you only need to check voltage, the Fluke 101 is a palm-size meter and a non-contact tester like the Klein … Read more
Best Non Contact Voltage Testers for 2026
The best non contact voltage tester for most users is the Klein Tools NCVT-3 (or its NCVT-3P variant), a dual-range detector with a flashlight, a rugged body and a drop rating of about 6.5 ft. The Milwaukee 2203-20 is the closest alternative, and the Fluke 2AC is the choice for electricians who want a single-range … Read more
Best Digital Multimeters for 2026: Top Picks
The best digital multimeter for most people is the Fluke 117: it is a True RMS, auto-ranging meter rated CAT III 600V with a low-impedance mode that avoids ghost-voltage readings and a built-in non-contact voltage detector. For a lower price, the Klein Tools MM400 is a sound budget choice, and for lab-grade accuracy the Fluke … Read more
Best 20 Volt Cordless Grinders for 2026
The best 20 volt cordless grinder for most buyers is the DeWalt 20V MAX XR DCG413B, a brushless 4-1/2 in. grinder with a paddle switch and kickback brake. For maximum power on 6 in. discs, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2980-20 is the choice, and for Makita users the X-LOCK XAG26 offers tool-free disc changes. Ryobi’s … Read more
Best 20 Volt Brushless Drills in 2026: Top Picks
The best 20 volt brushless drill for most people is the DeWalt 20V MAX XR DCD800: it is compact, has plenty of torque for framing and cabinet work, and sits on the largest 20V battery platform in the big-box aisle. If you already own 18V batteries from Milwaukee or Makita, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2903-20 … Read more
Best 18 Volt Nail Guns for 2026: Brad to Framing
The best 18 volt nail gun depends on the nail you need to drive: the DeWalt DCN680 is the top 18-gauge brad nailer for most buyers, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel brad and finish nailers are the strongest choice for professionals, and the Makita XNB01Z is a smooth, light option for trim. For framing, a 21-degree … Read more
Best 18 Volt Drill Driver Combo Kits for 2026
The best 18 volt drill driver combo kit for most buyers is a two-tool brushless kit from the platform you want to grow into: the DeWalt DCK277C2, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2997-22 or the Makita XT281S-class brushless kit. All three pair a drill and an impact driver with two batteries and a charger, and the … Read more
Best 12 Volt Impact Drivers for 2026
The best 12 volt impact driver for most people is the Milwaukee M12 Fuel 1/4 in. hex impact driver (3453-20), which reviewers describe as driving like a compact 18V tool, with a maker-rated 1,500 in-lbs of torque. The DeWalt Xtreme 12V DCF801 is the lighter, cheaper alternative at about 1,450 in-lbs, and the Makita 12V … Read more
Best 12 Volt Cordless Drills for 2026
The best 12 volt cordless drill for most people is the Milwaukee M12 Fuel 3/8 in. drill/driver (2504-20), because it combines a brushless motor with the largest 12V tool range and enough power for shelves, cabinets and light framing. The DeWalt Xtreme 12V DCD701 is the lighter, cheaper alternative, and Makita’s 12V max CXT drill … Read more