Milwaukee 2551-20 Drill Review
Our verdict
The Milwaukee 2551-20 is a 12-volt battery-powered drill spinning at 3000 RPM and weighing only 1.2 pounds, making it one of the fastest and lightest compact drills in the 12V class at $114.99.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Electricians, finish carpenters, and tradespeople who work in tight spaces and need a high-speed, low-weight drill on the Milwaukee M12 platform
Skip if
You need maximum torque for driving large fasteners or boring through dense material, where a higher-voltage platform would be more appropriate
- Power Source Battery Powered
- Voltage 12 Volts
- Amps 1.5 Amps
- Speed 3000 RPM
- Weight 1.2 Pounds
- Dimensions 7.5"L x 6.8"W x 3"H
- Priced 126% above the category median ($50.99 across 103 tracked models)
Our scorecard
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Owner rating4.6/5
4.6 average across 713 owner ratings
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Popularity2.8/5
713 owner reviews, more than most models here
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
Where most 12-volt drills top out at 1500 RPM, the Milwaukee 2551-20 reaches 3000 RPM, doubling the no-load speed within the same voltage class. Combined with a 1.2-pound weight and compact dimensions of 7.5 inches long by 6.8 inches wide by 3 inches high, it is purpose-built for precision, speed, and comfort in confined areas. The 1.5-amp draw keeps heat manageable during extended use.
At 4.6 stars from 713 verified reviews, owner satisfaction is consistently positive. Based on those reviews and the listed specs, the 2551-20 stands out for work like running conduit, driving trim screws, and any task where reduced arm fatigue matters more than raw torque. It runs on the Milwaukee M12 battery platform, which is compatible with dozens of other M12 tools.
Priced at $114.99, it is a mid-range buy for the 12V segment. Buyers already invested in M12 batteries will find the cost-per-capability ratio favorable, while new buyers may want to consider a kit that bundles batteries.
Pros
- 3000 RPM is twice the speed of most 12-volt drills in this segment
- 1.2 pounds is exceptionally light, reducing fatigue on overhead and repetitive tasks
- Compact footprint at 7.5 by 6.8 by 3 inches fits in confined spaces
- 4.6-star rating from 713 reviews confirms strong owner satisfaction
- M12 platform compatible with the Milwaukee cordless tool ecosystem
Cons
- 12-volt platform limits torque output compared to 18V or 20V drills
- At $114.99, priced near the kit version of competing 12V drills that include batteries
- 1.5-amp motor draw may be a constraint for sustained heavy-duty applications
Specifications
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Amps | 1.5 Amps |
| Speed | 3000 RPM |
| Weight | 1.2 Pounds |
| Dimensions | 7.5"L x 6.8"W x 3"H |
Performance notes
Battery powered at 12 volts, drawing 1.5 amps. No-load speed of 3000 RPM is the standout performance spec in this class. Weight is 1.2 pounds. Dimensions: 7.5 inches long, 6.8 inches wide, 3 inches high. Ideal for precision work, fast pilot-hole drilling, and driving smaller fasteners at speed.
What buyers say
Owners frequently describe the 2551-20 as a go-to tool for tight-space work and electrician tasks. The high RPM and low weight combination draws consistent praise. Some owners note that for heavier driving tasks they reach for a higher-voltage drill, but for intended precision and speed applications the satisfaction rate is high.
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Frequently asked questions
How does the Milwaukee 2551-20's 3000 RPM compare to other 12V drills?
Most 12-volt drills in this category are rated at 1500 RPM. The 2551-20's 3000 RPM no-load speed is double that figure, making it noticeably faster for drilling and driving tasks where speed matters.
Does the Milwaukee 2551-20 come with a battery?
The 2551-20 designation indicates a bare tool on the Milwaukee M12 platform. Batteries are not included and must be sourced separately.
Have more questions about this drill?
Reach the ToolGalaxy research team at hello@toolgalaxy.com.