Milwaukee 3485-20 vs Ingersoll 3101G
Choosing between the Milwaukee 3485-20 and the Ingersoll 3101G comes down to one core question: do you need cordless freedom or do you have an air compressor ready to go? The Milwaukee 3485-20 is a 12V lithium-ion die grinder priced at $184.97, while the Ingersoll 3101G is a pneumatic die grinder at $50.98 that spins at 20000 RPM with a track record of 2,583 owner reviews. Both are compact tools, but they serve fundamentally different shop setups.
Quick winner
The Ingersoll 3101G wins on price and proven owner feedback for shop users with compressed air; the Milwaukee 3485-20 is the pick for cordless portability on a 12V lithium-ion battery.
Key differences, measured
- The Ingersoll 3101G is 72% cheaper ($50.98 vs $184.97).
Side-by-side specs
| Spec | Milwaukee 3485-20 Grinder | Ingersoll 3101G Grinder |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $184.97 | $50.98 |
| Rating | ||
| Power Source | Lithium Ion Battery | pneumatic-powered |
| Weight | 1.65 Pounds | 590 Grams |
The two contenders
Milwaukee 3485-20 Grinder
The Milwaukee 3485-20 is a cordless die grinder powered by a 12V lithium-ion battery, listed at $184.97 and weighing 1.65 Pounds. Its 4.7-star rating across 159 reviews and 1,000 units bought last month point to strong recent demand among cordless tool buyers. Speed specs are not published in the listing, so confirm RPM directly with Milwaukee before purchasing for precision-grinding tasks.
Buy this if: Tradespeople and DIYers who need a cordless die grinder that works anywhere on a 12V lithium-ion battery, without a hose or compressor.
Check price on AmazonIngersoll 3101G Grinder
The Ingersoll 3101G is a pneumatic die grinder rated at 20000 RPM, weighing 590 Grams, and measuring 9.5 x 6 x 2 inches. At $50.98, it is the more affordable option by a wide margin, and its 4.6-star rating across 2,583 reviews reflects consistent satisfaction from mechanics and fabricators. It requires a compressed-air source, making it best suited to a stationary shop rather than field or remote work.
Buy this if: Shop technicians and fabricators who already run compressed air and want a proven, high-speed pneumatic die grinder at a budget price.
Check price on AmazonFrequently asked questions
What is the main difference between the Milwaukee 3485-20 and the Ingersoll 3101G?
The Milwaukee 3485-20 is cordless, running on a 12V lithium-ion battery, while the Ingersoll 3101G is pneumatic and requires a compressed-air source. The Ingersoll publishes a 20000 RPM speed rating; the Milwaukee's RPM is not listed in the available specs.
How do the weights compare?
The Milwaukee 3485-20 is listed at 1.65 Pounds. The Ingersoll 3101G is listed at 590 Grams. Both are compact die grinders, though the units differ in how they are published.
Is the Milwaukee 3485-20 worth the extra cost over the Ingersoll 3101G?
The Milwaukee 3485-20 is priced at $184.97 versus $50.98 for the Ingersoll 3101G. The added cost reflects cordless convenience and freedom from a compressor. If you already have a compressor, the Ingersoll 3101G offers strong value backed by 2,583 verified reviews at a 4.6-star rating.
Which tool has more buyer feedback?
The Ingersoll 3101G has 2,583 reviews compared to 159 for the Milwaukee 3485-20. The Milwaukee holds a 4.7-star rating and the Ingersoll 4.6 stars, so both rate highly among verified buyers.