Head to head
Festool DF 500 RQ-Set vs Milwaukee M18 FH
The Festool DF 500 RQ-Set is a domino jointing machine for loose-tenon joinery. The Milwaukee M18 FH is a 18v sds-plus rotary hammer with 4 operating modes.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Specifications side by side
| Festool DF 500 RQ-Set | Milwaukee M18 FH | |
|---|---|---|
| No-load speed | 25,500 rpm | 0-1330 rpm |
| Weight | 3.60 kg (without accessories) | 2.9 kg (without battery) |
| Power consumption | 420 W | - |
| Domino cutter diameters | 4, 5, 6, 8, 10 mm | - |
| Max routing depth | 28 mm | - |
| SDS chuck | - | 26mm SDS-Plus |
| Impact energy | - | 2.5 J |
| Impact rate | - | 0-4800 bpm |
Sources: Festool DF 500 RQ-Set, Milwaukee M18 FH. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the DF 500 RQ-Set if...
The DOMINO DF 500 replaced traditional dowelling and biscuit jointing for many furniture makers and joiners, letting them cut precise mortises for loose tenons quickly. It has no direct equivalent from the other brands in this catalogue, which is part of its appeal to Festool users.
Full DF 500 RQ-Set specifications →Buy or hire the M18 FH if...
The M18 FH is Milwaukee's cordless answer to corded SDS-plus hammers, used by electricians and fixers who want to drop cable and chase without a compressor or extension lead on site. It is aimed at users already invested in the M18 range rather than those buying on price alone.
Full M18 FH specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Festool DF 500 RQ-Set and the Milwaukee M18 FH?
The Festool DF 500 RQ-Set is a dOMINO jointing machine for loose-tenon joinery; the Milwaukee M18 FH is a 18V SDS-Plus rotary hammer with 4 operating modes.
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