Head to head
Festool DF 500 RQ-Set vs Milwaukee M18 FPD3
The Festool DF 500 RQ-Set is a domino jointing machine for loose-tenon joinery. The Milwaukee M18 FPD3 is a 18v brushless combi drill for drilling and driving with hammer action.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Specifications side by side
| Festool DF 500 RQ-Set | Milwaukee M18 FPD3 | |
|---|---|---|
| No-load speed | 25,500 rpm | 0-2100 rpm (2-speed) |
| Weight | 3.60 kg (without accessories) | 2.2 kg |
| Power consumption | 420 W | - |
| Domino cutter diameters | 4, 5, 6, 8, 10 mm | - |
| Max routing depth | 28 mm | - |
| Max torque | - | 158 Nm |
| Chuck | - | 13mm keyless metal |
| Percussion rate | - | 33,000 bpm |
| Max drilling capacity | - | 89mm (wood); 16mm (metal/masonry) |
Sources: Festool DF 500 RQ-Set, Milwaukee M18 FPD3. 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 FPD3 if...
The FPD3 is Milwaukee's current flagship 18V combi drill, bought by tradespeople already on the M18 battery platform who want high torque in a compact body. It competes directly with DeWalt's XR and Makita's brushless combi drills at the premium end of cordless drilling.
Full M18 FPD3 specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Festool DF 500 RQ-Set and the Milwaukee M18 FPD3?
The Festool DF 500 RQ-Set is a dOMINO jointing machine for loose-tenon joinery; the Milwaukee M18 FPD3 is a 18V brushless combi drill for drilling and driving with hammer action.
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