The Makita XT617T and the Milwaukee 2697-26 are both six-tool cordless kits covering drilling, driving, cutting and grinding, but they are not interchangeable. Their sixth tools differ (a LED light in the Makita kit, a multi-tool in the Milwaukee kit), their battery bundles differ, and they run on separate battery platforms. Manufacturer pages establish what each kit contains. No independent side-by-side testing of these two kits was found, so this article does not name a winner on power, runtime, durability or value.
Compare the exact model numbers first
Six-tool kits are sold in several generations, and older or discontinued versions still appear in search results. Before comparing, confirm that you are looking at the two models below:
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- Makita XT617T: an 18V LXT brushless six-piece kit, listed on the Makita USA product page for the XT617T.
- Milwaukee 2697-26: an M18 six-tool kit, listed on the Milwaukee Tool product page for the 2697-26.
Contents and stock can vary by model and retailer, so match the model number on the listing against the manufacturer page before you buy.
What each kit contains, tool by tool
The tool lineups line up by function, with one exception at the end of the list.
#1 Best Overall
- Ergonomically Designed: Work in tight areas with a compact design that gets into tough spots
- Both tools are designed to fit into difficult to reach spaces
- Complete a wide range of applications with a high-performance motor that delivers up to 300 UWO, and an impact driver delivering up to 1,400 in-lbs of torque
- Both the DEWALT impact driver and drill driver feature integrated LED work lights with a convenient 20-second delay, ensuring enhanced visibility in dimly lit or challenging work areas
- One-Handed Loading - Keep one hand free with a 1/4 in. hex chuck that accepts 1 in. bit tips
| Function | Makita XT617T | Milwaukee 2697-26 |
|---|---|---|
| Drill/driver | XPH14Z hammer driver-drill; up to 1,250 in-lb maximum torque (manufacturer specification) | 2606-20 compact drill/driver; torque not stated on the page reviewed |
| Impact driver | XDT20Z; up to 1,590 in-lb maximum torque (manufacturer specification) | 2656-20; torque not stated on the page reviewed |
| Circular saw | XSH03Z; 5,000 RPM no-load (manufacturer specification) | 2630-20; speed not stated on the page reviewed |
| Reciprocating saw | XRJ05Z | 2621-20 (Sawzall) |
| Grinder | XAG04Z angle grinder | 2680-20 grinder |
| Sixth tool | DML815 LED light | 2626-20 multi-tool |
Torque and speed figures come only from the Makita page. The Milwaukee page reviewed lists model numbers without comparable performance values, so the two kits cannot be compared on those specifications from the manufacturer material alone.
The sixth tool changes the kit’s purpose
The light and the multi-tool are the most important difference in the lineup. A DML815 LED light suits buyers who work in dim spaces, crawl areas or job sites without fixed lighting. A multi-tool suits buyers who want one tool for flush cuts, scraping, sanding and other close-quarters work. Neither is a substitute for the other, so the choice depends on which task you repeat most.
Batteries, charger and bag
The battery bundles are the second major difference, and tool count alone does not capture them.
| Item | Makita XT617T | Milwaukee 2697-26 |
|---|---|---|
| Batteries | Two BL1850B 5.0Ah LXT batteries | Battery models 48-11-1828 and 48-11-1815; capacity of 48-11-1828 not stated on the page reviewed |
| Charger | Rapid charger | M18/M12 dual-voltage charger |
| Bag | Tool bag | Contractor bag |
| Warranty | Not stated on the page reviewed; check the Makita listing | Not stated on the page reviewed; check the Milwaukee listing |
The Milwaukee product page is internally inconsistent about one battery. Its overview describes a 1.5Ah battery as 48-11-1818, while the in-box list names 48-11-1815. Treat the in-box list as the kit contents, and confirm the model with the seller before purchase.
Rank #2
- This CRAFTSMAN V20 Lithium 7 tool Combo kit provides the tools, batteries, charger, and accessories needed to get any job done
- Part of the V20 cordless system
- 20V MAX 1/2 inch cordless drill with powerful motor provides 280 UWO of power and 2 speed gearbox ranging from 0 to 400 RPM and 0-1, 500 RPM for demanding tasks
- 20V MAX 1/4 inch cordless impact driver provides 1, 460 in lbs of torque 2, 800 RPM and 3, 100 BPM for heavy duty fastening
- 20V MAX cordless reciprocating saw with 1 In stroke length running at 3,000 SPM's for speed of completing applications, tool-free blade release allows for quick and easy blade changes
The two platforms use different batteries and chargers. A Makita LXT battery does not fit a Milwaukee M18 tool, and the reverse is also true. If you already own one brand’s batteries, that platform match will usually matter more than any spec in this comparison.
Read the manufacturer claims with their basis
Makita says its BL brushless motor optimizes battery energy use for up to 50% longer runtime, and that the 5.0Ah battery provides up to 65% more runtime per charge. The comparison basis for these figures is not stated on the page reviewed, and they have not been independently verified. They should not be read as a measured advantage over the Milwaukee kit.
Makita’s product description says the kit is built for the pro-user who requires a wide range of best-in-class cordless solutions for drilling, driving, fastening, cutting, grinding, and lighting
. Milwaukee’s description says its M18 6-Piece Combo Kit is powered by the MILWAUKEE® M18™ cordless system to deliver you more torque, power, and longer run-time than the competition
. That is marketing language, not an established comparative result.
Older and discontinued versions to avoid by mistake
Several nearby model numbers can be mistaken for the current kits:
Rank #3
- Drill/Driver features a 3/8" chuck, 0-650 rpm ideal for consumer DIY projects, 11 position clutch to prevent stripping of screws and damaging work material and an LED work light for increased visibility in tight or dark spaces
- The circular saw's compact design makes it easy to use and reduces fatigue. The 5.5" blade is capable of cutting 2x lumber, and its high torque motor makes it ideal for consumer DIY projects. Adjustments are quick and easy with the tool-free depth of cut and bevel settings for angled cutting.
- Work light features up to 11 hours of runtime
- 2 batteries double the runtime for less down time on larger projects
- Part of the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* Lithium Ion Battery System
- Makita XT614SX1 is labeled discontinued on the Makita USA product page. It is a 3.0Ah six-piece LXT kit, so it is not the 5.0Ah XT617T.
- Milwaukee 2696-26 is a different M18 bundle that includes a work light and two 3.0Ah XC batteries, as shown on the Milwaukee Tool product page for the 2696-26.
- Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2896-26 is marked no longer available on the Milwaukee Tool product page for the 2896-26.
Product pages can stay online after a kit is discontinued. Check the Makita LXT combo kits page for current Makita offerings before treating any listing as current.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Price, stock and warranty need a same-day check
The manufacturer pages reviewed do not establish current retailer prices, so this article makes no price comparison. Before buying, check:
- Live price and stock for the exact model number in your country or region.
- The kit’s contents on the listing against the manufacturer page, including the battery model and the sixth tool.
- The warranty for the kit and its included batteries. Warranty terms were not stated on the manufacturer pages reviewed, and terms for one kit should not be assumed for the other.
How to choose between them
- If you need a light more than a multi-tool, the Makita XT617T’s DML815 LED light is the included difference.
- If you need a multi-tool and already own M18 batteries, the Milwaukee 2697-26 fits your existing system.
- If you already own Makita 18V LXT batteries, the XT617T’s two 5.0Ah batteries are the relevant bundle.
- If published torque or speed figures matter to your decision, use the Makita specifications. The Milwaukee page reviewed does not state comparable numbers.
Once you have the exact model and live price, the decision usually comes down to the platform you already own and whether you need the light or the multi-tool.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
