When it comes to the age-old question of Milwaukee vs. DeWalt, the answer is far more complex than most people realize. Are you asking about the quality of the tools themselves, or are you interested in the larger companies behind them? To provide a comprehensive answer, we must delve into the histories of both Milwaukee and DeWalt. We’ll explore their sizes, employee numbers, and parent companies. We’ll also examine the range of tools each brand offers, their reputations, and their innovations in the industry. Finally, we’ll consider their battery technology and the depth of their tool and accessory lines. There is a lot to consider when comparing Milwaukee to DeWalt.
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Milwaukee Power Tools Company History
Milwaukee Tool was an American power tool manufacturer based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin until 1924. Since then, it has operated as a subsidiary of Techtronic Industries (TTI), a Hong Kong company established in 1985. TTI also owns other well-known brands such as RIDGID, AEG, Ryobi (licensed), Hart Tools, Empire, Hoover, Dirt Devil, and Oreck. Milwaukee Tool produces both corded and cordless power tools, as well as hand tools and accessories like saw blades and drill/driver bits.
Milwaukee Tool has a rich history of quality and innovation. They introduced the lightweight Hole-Shooter in 1918, which became the first portable, one-handed 1/4″ capacity drill. Throughout the years, they have continued to pioneer new technologies, such as lithium-ion batteries and Bluetooth tool technology with the Milwaukee One-Key. In recent years, they have also entered the market of wireless power devices with their MX FUEL battery-operated tools.
Dewalt Company History
DeWalt is an American corporation known for its power tools in the construction, manufacturing, and woodworking industries. DeWalt is actually owned by Stanley Black & Decker and operates as one of their many brands. Stanley Black & Decker also owns other popular brands such as Irwin Tools, Craftsman, Lenox, Porter-Cable, Proto, Bostitch, Vidmar, and more.
DeWalt was founded in 1923 by Raymond E. DeWalt, the inventor of the radial arm saw. The company was later sold to Black & Decker in 1960. Since then, DeWalt has continued to expand its product line and innovation. They offer a wide range of power tools, machine tools, and accessories. In 2016, DeWalt introduced the FlexVolt, which was the construction industry’s first hybrid voltage battery pack.
Milwaukee Tool Manufacturing
Milwaukee Tool has a strong commitment to American manufacturing. They conduct most of their research and development at their offices in Brookfield, Wisconsin. While they manufacture tools and accessories worldwide, their primary manufacturing locations are in Asia, Mexico, Europe, and the United States. In fact, they have multiple manufacturing facilities in Mukwonago, West Bend, and Sun Prairie in Wisconsin.
Milwaukee Tool has recently announced plans to invest in further expansion in West Bend, Wisconsin, as well as in Cookeville, Tennessee. These investments will bring new jobs and contribute to the growth of the US economy. In 2020 alone, Milwaukee Tool plans to invest over $100 million and create 350 new jobs in the United States.
Milwaukee hole saws are in production at their Greenwood facility
They also have a range of tools that are proudly made in the USA. These include electrician’s hand tools, various drills, saws, levels, and more. While they do manufacture many cordless power tools internationally, their dedication to American manufacturing is evident through their investment in US facilities and job creation.
DeWalt Manufacturing
DeWalt, like many power tool companies, manufactures the majority of its inventory overseas. However, they have made efforts to bring some manufacturing back to the US. In 2013, DeWalt announced that they would assemble certain products domestically using globally sourced components. These components are imported from countries such as Brazil, China, the Czech Republic, Italy, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and the United States. You may have seen DeWalt products with the “Made in the USA Using Global Materials” label, indicating their commitment to domestic manufacturing.
DeWalt operates seven manufacturing plants in the United States, located in Connecticut, Maryland, Kentucky, Indiana, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee. These plants produce a wide range of DeWalt tools and products. In addition to these facilities, DeWalt’s parent company, Stanley Black & Decker, maintains 48 US manufacturing plants across multiple states.
Overseas manufacturing still dominates DeWalt’s production, primarily in Brazil, China, Czech Republic, Italy, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. However, their commitment to US manufacturing can be seen through their investment in domestic facilities and the jobs they create.
Milwaukee vs DeWalt Headcount
Determining the exact size of each company can be challenging, considering they are both part of larger parent companies. DeWalt claims to employ over 10,000 people across its facilities, while all of Stanley Black & Decker’s brands employ approximately six times that number. Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation employs over 5,500 people in the US alone. Their parent company, TTI, employs over 22,000 people worldwide.
Both Milwaukee and DeWalt have extensive operations and a significant number of employees. Their global presence in the power tool industry is a testament to their success and the quality of their products.
What Parent Companies are Behind Milwaukee and DeWalt?
Milwaukee Tool is a subsidiary of Techtronic Industries (TTI), a Hong Kong company established in 1985. TTI is a global leader in the design, manufacturing, and marketing of power tools, outdoor power equipment, hand tools, layout and measurement tools, appliances, and floor care products. TTI’s portfolio of brands includes Milwaukee Power Tools, AEG, Ryobi (licensed), Hoover, Oreck, Hart Tools, and more. TTI operates worldwide, with manufacturing facilities in Asia, Mexico, Europe, and the United States. TTI is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and has a strong market valuation.
DeWalt, on the other hand, is owned by Stanley Black & Decker (SBD), an American Fortune 500 company. SBD is a leading provider of tools and storage, commercial electronic security, and engineered fastening systems. Their portfolio of brands includes Stanley, DeWalt, Black + Decker, Craftsman, Lenox, Proto, Bostitch, and more. SBD operates globally and has a strong manufacturing presence in the United States, with 48 US manufacturing plants. They are listed on the New York Stock Exchange and have a significant market valuation.
Both Milwaukee and DeWalt are backed by reputable parent companies with a long-standing history in the power tool industry. These parent companies bring expertise, resources, and financial stability to support the growth and innovation of Milwaukee and DeWalt.
Milwaukee vs DeWalt Line Depth
When it comes to tools, both Milwaukee and DeWalt offer an extensive range of products. Milwaukee Tool alone has over 200 tools in their M18 line and 100 or more in their M12 line. Their product range includes cordless power tools, corded power tools, hand tools, and accessories. In recent years, they have also introduced the MX FUEL line of battery-operated tools.
DeWalt also offers a wide range of tools, including over 200 products in their 20V Max line. They have expanded their line with the introduction of the FlexVolt line, which includes dozens of tools. DeWalt’s product range covers professional-grade power tools for various industries and applications, as well as accessories and hand tools.
Both brands are committed to providing high-quality tools for professional contractors, tradespeople, and DIY enthusiasts. They offer a comprehensive selection of accessories, from blades and drills to hole saws and fasteners. DeWalt has a slight advantage when it comes to fasteners, thanks to their acquisitions of Powers Fasteners and Infastech.
While Milwaukee Tools may be slightly more expensive on average due to their focus on professional trade tools and larger batteries in their cordless kits, DeWalt offers more options for less expensive tools. Overall, the differences in pricing and tool options are not significant enough to make a clear distinction between the two brands. Both Milwaukee and DeWalt offer a wide range of high-quality tools for various budgets and applications.
DeWalt vs Milwaukee Warranty and Service
Both Milwaukee and DeWalt provide warranties and service for their tools. Milwaukee offers a 5-year warranty on most of their cordless power tools, as well as a Limited Lifetime Warranty on their hand tools and RedStick spirit levels. Their cordless outdoor power supplies come with a 3-year warranty, and their batteries have warranties ranging from one to three years. DeWalt offers a 3-year limited warranty on most of their cordless power tools, along with a 1-year free service contract and a 90-day money-back guarantee. DeWalt also offers lifetime warranties on their machine tools and limited lifetime warranties on their hand tools. Both companies recommend registering your tools for warranty service, as it helps with faster and easier repairs.
Brand Reputation and Conclusion
Both Milwaukee and DeWalt have established themselves as reputable brands in the power tool industry. Milwaukee has gained recognition for their innovation and quality, particularly in the introduction of lithium-ion batteries and Bluetooth technology. DeWalt, on the other hand, has a strong brand awareness and is well-known for their yellow-and-black tools, which are often seen on construction sites.
Over the years, Milwaukee has made significant strides in catching up to DeWalt and even surpassing them in some areas. Their commitment to American manufacturing and investment in US facilities demonstrate their dedication to producing high-quality tools in the United States. DeWalt has also made efforts to bring back manufacturing to the US and offers a wide range of tools and accessories.
Ultimately, the choice between Milwaukee and DeWalt comes down to personal preference, specific tool requirements, and budget. Both brands offer a diverse range of tools, innovations, and quality craftsmanship. It is important to research and compare specific tools within each brand’s lineup to find the best fit for your needs. Whether you choose Milwaukee or DeWalt, you can be confident that you are investing in a reputable brand with a history of producing top-notch tools.