If you work in automotive repair, HVAC, plumbing, or general maintenance, a cordless ratchet can save time and reduce fatigue. Milwaukee’s M12 FUEL™ cordless ratchets have quickly become the industry standard thanks to their compact size, excellent torque, and ability to fit into tight spaces. In this guide, we’ll cover the best Milwaukee ratchets, break down their features, and help you choose the right model for your work.
Quick Picks: Best Milwaukee Ratchets
- Best Overall: Milwaukee M12 FUEL 2557-20 3/8″ Ratchet – Excellent balance of torque, size, and usability for pros.
- Best Compact: Milwaukee M12 FUEL 2556-20 1/4″ Ratchet – Slim and lightweight for confined spaces.
- Best Heavy-Duty: Milwaukee M12 FUEL 2567-20 High Torque 3/8″ Ratchet – More torque for stubborn fasteners.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Milwaukee Ratchet
Here are the key factors to consider when picking the best Milwaukee ratchet for your needs:
- Drive Size: 1/4″ drive is ideal for precision and tight spaces, 3/8″ is the most versatile, and 1/2″ is best for heavy-duty work.
- Torque: Standard M12 ratchets provide 40–60 ft-lbs of torque, while high-torque models deliver up to 70 ft-lbs.
- Length & Size: Compact ratchets fit into tight spaces, while extended reach models provide access to recessed bolts.
- Batteries: All Milwaukee M12 ratchets run on M12 REDLITHIUM™ batteries, which are lightweight and widely compatible.
- Manual Override: All models allow you to use them as a traditional hand ratchet when needed.
Detailed Milwaukee Ratchet Reviews
1. Milwaukee M12 FUEL 2557-20 3/8″ Ratchet
Who It’s For: Professionals and mechanics who want the best all-around cordless ratchet.
- 55 ft-lbs of torque
- Brushless POWERSTATE™ motor
- Compact 11.8″ length
Pros: Versatile size, strong torque, durable build.
Cons: Slightly bulkier than 1/4″ models.
Final Verdict: The best overall Milwaukee ratchet for most mechanics. Check Price
2. Milwaukee M12 FUEL 2556-20 1/4″ Ratchet
Who It’s For: Auto techs and HVAC workers who need a slim ratchet for tight spaces.
- 40 ft-lbs of torque
- Compact 10.8″ length
- Lightweight design for overhead use
Pros: Slim profile, excellent for small fasteners, very lightweight.
Cons: Less torque than larger models.
Final Verdict: The best compact Milwaukee ratchet. See Price
3. Milwaukee M12 FUEL 2567-20 High Torque 3/8″ Ratchet
Who It’s For: Mechanics who need extra torque for stubborn bolts.
- 70 ft-lbs of torque
- Extended reinforced housing
- Brushless POWERSTATE™ motor
Pros: More torque than standard models, durable, reliable.
Cons: Slightly larger and heavier.
Final Verdict: The best heavy-duty Milwaukee ratchet. View Price
4. Milwaukee M12 FUEL 2560-20 1/2″ Ratchet
Who It’s For: Professionals handling larger fasteners in trucks and machinery.
- 60 ft-lbs of torque
- 1/2″ drive for heavy-duty sockets
- Durable and ergonomic grip
Pros: Great for larger bolts, versatile, professional-grade build.
Cons: Larger size limits access in tight spaces.
Final Verdict: The best 1/2″ Milwaukee ratchet for bigger fasteners. See More
5. Milwaukee M12 FUEL 2566-20 Extended Reach 3/8″ Ratchet
Who It’s For: Auto techs and pros needing access to recessed bolts.
- 55 ft-lbs of torque
- Extended reach design for hard-to-access areas
- Same power as the 2557 model
Pros: Excellent reach, powerful, compact head.
Cons: Slightly more expensive than standard ratchets.
Final Verdict: The best extended reach Milwaukee ratchet. Check Price
Comparison Table: Best Milwaukee Ratchets
| Model | Drive Size | Torque | Length | Best For | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2557-20 | 3/8″ | 55 ft-lbs | 11.8″ | Best Overall | View Price |
| 2556-20 | 1/4″ | 40 ft-lbs | 10.8″ | Compact Spaces | Check Price |
| 2567-20 | 3/8″ | 70 ft-lbs | 12″ | Heavy-Duty | See Price |
| 2560-20 | 1/2″ | 60 ft-lbs | 12.1″ | Larger Fasteners | View Price |
| 2566-20 | 3/8″ Extended | 55 ft-lbs | 14″ | Extended Reach | Check Price |
FAQ
Are Milwaukee ratchets brushless?
Yes, all Milwaukee M12 FUEL ratchets use POWERSTATE™ brushless motors for better performance and durability.
Can Milwaukee ratchets be used manually?
Yes, all Milwaukee cordless ratchets allow manual operation like a traditional hand ratchet when needed.
Which Milwaukee ratchet is best for automotive work?
The M12 FUEL 2557-20 3/8″ ratchet is the most versatile and popular for mechanics.
How long do Milwaukee ratchet batteries last?
M12 REDLITHIUM™ batteries typically last 3–5 years or 1,000+ charge cycles with proper care.
What’s the difference between extended reach and standard Milwaukee ratchets?
Extended reach ratchets are longer, making them better for recessed bolts, while standard models are more compact for general use.
Conclusion
The best Milwaukee ratchet depends on your work style and needs. For most users, the M12 FUEL 2557-20 3/8″ Ratchet is the top pick, offering excellent torque and versatility. If you need compact access, the 2556-20 1/4″ Ratchet is ideal, while the 2567-20 High Torque 3/8″ Ratchet is best for heavy-duty jobs. Extended reach and 1/2″ models round out the lineup for specialized applications. No matter your choice, Milwaukee ratchets deliver durability, power, and performance that professionals can trust.
Shop Milwaukee ratchets today and make fastening faster, easier, and more efficient.