Milwaukee M18FH-0 vs M18BH-0: Is the FH Worth the Extra Money?
If you’re shopping for a Milwaukee SDS+ rotary hammer and stuck between the M18FH-0 and the M18BH-0, you’re not alone. Both cordless tools sit in Milwaukee’s M18 lineup and cater to users looking for portable, capable hammer drills. But what exactly are the differences and is the M18FH-0 worth the extra cost?
Let’s break it down.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Milwaukee M18BH-0 | Milwaukee M18FH-0 |
|---|---|---|
| Max Impact Energy | 1.2 Joules | 2.7 Joules |
| BPM | 7,000 | 4,400 |
| RPM | 0–1,300 | 0–1,500 |
| Weight (without batt) | 2.5kg | 3.5kg |
| Anti-Vibration | Basic | AVS (Advanced Vibration System) |
| Drill Modes | 2-mode: Rotary Hammer, Rotary Only | 4-mode: Rotary Hammer, Rotary Only, Chisel, Chisel Adjust |
| Brushless Motor | No | Yes |
M18BH-0: Lightweight and Simple
The M18BH-0 is Milwaukee’s more compact SDS+ hammer, ideal for light-duty masonry drilling. With 1.2 Joules of impact energy, it’s suited for tasks like wall plug holes in brick, tile removal, or overhead work.
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- Great for overhead or extended use
- Lower price point
Cons:
- Lower impact energy
- Lacks a brushless motor and advanced vibration control
👉 Best for occasional or light-duty use.
💸 At the time of publishing, the cheapest price we found online was £129.98 at Toolstation. View it here
M18FH-0: Powerful and Professional
The M18FH-0 is the higher-end option, part of Milwaukee’s FUEL range. It delivers 2.7 Joules of impact energy and includes a brushless motor, advanced AVS, and a 4-mode selector.
Pros:
- Far superior drilling and chiselling performance
- More efficient and durable brushless motor
- Better user comfort with AVS
- Full-featured mode selection
Cons:
- Heavier and bulkier
- Higher price
👉 Best for frequent or heavy-duty use, including larger anchors and chiselling.
💸 At the time of publishing, the lowest price we found online was £203.99 at UK Planet Tools. Check availability here
So, Is the FH Worth the Extra Money?
If you only need an SDS+ drill occasionally or for light jobs like fitting wall plugs or light tiles, the M18BH-0 is a solid choice that saves you money.
But if you do a lot of masonry work or want something more powerful, longer-lasting, and comfortable to use the M18FH-0 easily justifies the higher cost. It’s simply in a different class of performance.
Final Verdict
- Get the M18BH-0 if: you’re a DIYer or tradesperson doing occasional, light-duty work and want to save on cost and weight.
- Go for the M18FH-0 if: you need higher power, brushless efficiency, and more versatility for regular or demanding use.
At SellToolsOnline, we help you compare your options and we’ll give you cash for your old gear too.