Milwaukee 2457-21 Impact Black,red Review

Our scorecard

The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other power tools and workshop machinery we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.

Overview

The Milwaukee 2457-21 is the kit version of the M12 cordless ratchet, adding a battery and charger to the 2457-20 bare tool and bringing the price to $129. The published specs confirm a 12V cordless platform, a no-load speed of 250 RPM, 1.5 amps, and a total weight of 4.06 pounds with battery installed. That weight is on the heavier side for a 12V ratchet, which is expected when the battery pack is factored in.

With 1,700 reviews at 4.7 stars, the 2457-21 is one of the most trusted cordless ratchets Milwaukee sells. The review depth means the 4.7 average is statistically solid, not an artifact of a small sample. Buyers know what they are getting: a proven M12 tool backed by Milwaukee's ecosystem, platform battery compatibility, and broad aftermarket support.

At 250 RPM the tool is not the fastest cordless ratchet available, but it covers the range of tasks that mechanics actually use a ratchet for: removing and reinstalling fasteners with moderate torque requirements in spaces where a full-size impact wrench does not fit. The 1.5-amp rating reflects the 12V battery included in the kit, and M12 batteries with higher capacity are available for extended run time.

Specifications

Performance notes

Cordless 12V M12 platform running at 250 RPM with a 1.5-amp battery. Total weight with battery is 4.06 pounds. The combination of compact 12V voltage and 250 RPM is well-matched to automotive ratcheting tasks such as brake caliper bolts, exhaust manifold fasteners, and underdash connector work. Not designed for maximum torque removal; use a larger impact wrench for stubborn fasteners.

What buyers say

Owners of the 2457-21 consistently rate the M12 ratchet as one of the most useful tools in their kit for the tasks where it fits. The battery-included configuration is frequently praised by buyers who want to avoid sourcing batteries separately. The most common feedback focuses on how much faster it is than a manual ratchet for repetitive jobs. Weight is occasionally mentioned as higher than expected once the battery is installed.