If you are still busting your knuckles manually cranking a hand ratchet in a tight engine bay, it is time to upgrade. Cordless ratchets have completely revolutionized automotive and maintenance work, replacing heavy pneumatic air tools and their annoying hoses.
When it comes to cordless ratchets, the Milwaukee M12 battery system is the undisputed king. They offer the largest variety of specialized ratchets on the market. However, with so many options, figuring out which 3/8″ drive model is right for you can be confusing. We are going to break down the four most popular Milwaukee M12 3/8″ bare tool ratchets available in 2026, comparing their torque, speed, and best use cases so you can make the right choice.
Why Choose the Milwaukee M12 System?
The M12 platform is specifically designed for sub-compact tools. While 18-volt batteries are great for heavy-duty impact wrenches, they are too bulky to fit behind an engine block or under a dashboard. The Milwaukee M12 batteries slide directly into the handle of the tool, maintaining a slim profile that mimics a traditional hand tool.
Plus, because all of these ratchets run on the exact same M12 battery, you only need to buy the “Bare Tool” (tool only) to expand your arsenal without wasting money on duplicate chargers.
2026 Milwaukee M12 3/8″ Ratchet Comparison
Here is a quick breakdown of the four most popular 3/8″ drive options available right now. Note: We are comparing bare tools (no battery included) to keep the metrics standardized.
| Model # | Name | Max Torque | Speed (RPM) | Motor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2457-20 | M12 Standard 3/8″ | 35 ft-lbs | 250 RPM | Brushed |
| 2567-20 | M12 FUEL High Speed | 35 ft-lbs | 450 RPM | Brushless |
| 2560-20 | M12 FUEL Extended Reach | 55 ft-lbs | 200 RPM | Brushless |
| 3053-20 | M12 FUEL 3/8″ (New Gen) | 70 ft-lbs | 400 RPM | Brushless |
⚠️ Buy Authorized to Protect Your Warranty
We highly recommend buying your Milwaukee tools from an authorized dealer like Acme Tools so your 5-year warranty is fully validated. We run live hourly and daily trackers for Acme Tools so you never pay full price:
- 📉 Daily Price Drops: Track the Biggest Daily Acme Tools Price Drops
- 🔥 Milwaukee Clearance: Browse Active Milwaukee Power Tool Discounts
The Detailed Breakdown: Which Ratchet is Right for You?
1. The Entry-Level Standard: Milwaukee 2457-20
This is the classic, original M12 ratchet that started it all. Featuring a brushed 12-volt motor, it delivers 35 ft-lbs of torque and 250 RPM. Weighing in at just 1.9 lbs with a battery, it is incredibly maneuverable and features a 3/4″ low profile head.
Who is it for? The casual DIYer. If you only change your own oil, swap out spark plugs, or do light weekend maintenance, this is the most affordable entry point into the cordless ratchet world.
2. The Speed Demon: Milwaukee 2567-20 (M12 FUEL High Speed)
If time is money, this is your tool. By upgrading to the FUEL line, you get a POWERSTATE Brushless motor that spins up to a massive 450 RPM. While the torque stays at 35 ft-lbs, the fastening and removal speed is unparalleled. It also features an even smaller 0.75″ head profile to slip into the tightest crevices.
Who is it for? Automotive technicians and assembly line workers. When you are removing a long bolt with endless threads (like a water pump bolt), the 450 RPM speed will save you hours over the course of a week.
3. The Knuckle Saver: Milwaukee 2560-20 (M12 FUEL Extended Reach)
Sometimes the issue isn’t torque, it’s geometry. The 2560-20 features an extended neck that gives you industry-leading reach into the deepest engine bays. It sacrifices a bit of speed (200 RPM) to deliver a beefy 55 ft-lbs of torque through its extended investment cast steel yoke housing.
Who is it for? Diesel mechanics and heavy equipment techs. When you need to reach a serpentine belt tensioner or a buried suspension bolt without busting your knuckles against a hot exhaust manifold, the extended neck is a lifesaver.
4. The Powerhouse: Milwaukee 3053-20 (M12 FUEL Next Gen)
This is the latest generation of the M12 FUEL 3/8″ ratchet, and it completely redefines the category. It delivers a staggering 70 ft-lbs of max torque while still spinning at a highly productive 400 RPM. This model also features a modular trigger, allowing you to swap between a button and a paddle cap for a personalized grip.
Who is it for? The uncompromising Professional. If you want the absolute most power Milwaukee offers in a standard-length 3/8″ cordless ratchet, this is the apex predator of the lineup.
A Quick Note on Cordless Ratchets: Remember that cordless ratchets are not impact wrenches! If a bolt is seized, do not rely on the electric motor to break it loose. Use the tool manually to crack the bolt loose with physical leverage, and then pull the trigger to let the motor spin it out. This protects the internal gears and extends the life of your tool.