tool hire - head to head
Makita vs Milwaukee
Both makes turn up on the same shortlists, and the honest answer is that they are built for different buyers rather than one being better than the other. Here is what actually separates them - from a directory that sells neither.
| Makita | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Built in | Japan | USA |
| UK availability | Widely available - large UK network | Widely available - large UK network |
| Range covers | Cordless and corded power tools, Outdoor power equipment, Site lighting and accessories | cordless power tools, hand tools, storage, outdoor power equipment |
| Best known for | LXT and XGT battery platforms | M18 FPD3 |
Choose Makita if...
One of the two cordless platforms most British trades have already committed to, and battery platform lock-in is the real story in power tools - once a van is full of LXT batteries, the next tool is usually a Makita too.
Look at: LXT and XGT battery platforms
Full Makita profile →Choose Milwaukee if...
Milwaukee is bought by trade users who have standardised on its M18/M12 battery platform and want the newest cordless tech first. It is positioned at the premium end alongside Makita and DeWalt, with particular strength in drilling, fastening and outdoor power equipment ranges.
Look at: M18 FPD3, M18 FH, M18 FHSAG125XPDB
Full Milwaukee profile →Where to hire or buy either
Most UK tool hire companies carry several makes and advertise none of them, so the practical move is to find the firms covering your area and ask what is on the yard.
Makita vs Milwaukee - common questions
Is Makita better than Milwaukee?
Neither is better outright - they are built for different buyers. One of the two cordless platforms most British trades have already committed to, and battery platform lock-in is the real story in power tools - once a van is full of LXT batteries, the next tool is usually a Makita too. Milwaukee is bought by trade users who have standardised on its M18/M12 battery platform and want the newest cordless tech first. It is positioned at the premium end alongside Makita and DeWalt, with particular strength in drilling, fastening and outdoor power equipment ranges.
Which is easier to get hold of in the UK, Makita or Milwaukee?
Makita: Available everywhere tools are sold or hired in Britain. Milwaukee: Widely stocked through trade merchants and specialist power tool dealers (e.g. ITS, Power Tool World) rather than the mainstream DIY trade counters, with a large M18/M12 battery platform used across drills, saws and site equipment.
Can I hire rather than buy?
Yes. Most UK tool hire companies hire as well as sell, and many carry several makes without listing them. Search by your area and ask what they have on the yard.
Other comparisons
GetBrent is an independent directory and is not a dealer for, nor affiliated with, either manufacturer. Brand and model names are the trademarks of their owners, used here only to identify the products they refer to. Specifications vary by model year and market - confirm weights, dimensions and towing limits with the supplier before hiring or buying.