10 Best Cordless Ratchet Wrench

The Milwaukee 2457-20 is a compact 3/8-inch cordless ratchet wrench powered by a 12-volt battery (battery not included). It offers a decent torque of 35 ft-lbs and a maximum speed of 250 RPM, which is suitable for light to medium tasks like automotive work or general repairs. Its low-profile head design helps you work easily in tight spaces, such as engine bays. The tool is lightweight at just 454 grams (about 1 pound), making it comfortable to handle for extended periods. One helpful feature is the recessed forward-backward switch placed on the back of the head to prevent accidental changes during use. It also includes an LED light to brighten dark work areas, improving visibility in dim conditions.

The built-in fuel gauge on the side lets you quickly check the battery level, though you’ll need to buy the compatible M12 battery separately. Additionally, the smart REDLINK electronics protect the tool from overheating, which can extend its life. The maximum speed and torque might feel limited if you need a more powerful ratchet for heavy-duty jobs. Since it doesn’t come with a battery or charger, you’ll have extra costs if you don’t already own compatible Milwaukee M12 batteries.

If you want a compact, lightweight ratchet wrench for occasional tightening or loosening in cramped spaces, this model fits well. For more demanding, continuous use or higher torque needs, you might want to consider a more powerful option.

The Milwaukee M12FIR38-0 cordless ratchet wrench is a solid choice for professionals and serious DIYers who need a compact, powerful tool for tight spaces. Its 12V battery delivers up to 81Nm of torque, which is strong enough for a wide range of automotive and mechanical tasks, though it may be a bit light for heavy industrial work. The 175 RPM speed helps get jobs done faster, and the low-profile head design allows easy access in cramped areas. Weighing just 1.28 kg, it’s comfortable to handle without causing much fatigue.

The built-in LED light is a handy feature for working in dark or confined spots, and the fuel gauge helps you monitor battery life, with the tool sold as a skin only, so you'll need to buy the battery and charger separately. With a 12V battery, run time and power won’t match larger voltage models, making it best suited for lighter tasks or users who value portability and control over raw power. The variable speed trigger gives precise control, which is great for delicate jobs.

If you want a durable, well-built ratchet wrench that fits into tight spaces and offers decent power on a lightweight platform, this Milwaukee model is worth considering but requires investing in compatible batteries and chargers to get it running.

The DEWALT XTREME 12V MAX Brushless 3/8-inch Ratchet is a solid choice for those needing a compact and versatile cordless wrench. It delivers a strong 60 ft-lbs of torque, which is good for many fastening jobs without being overly bulky. Its brushless motor helps provide efficient power and a variable speed trigger lets you adjust the speed to fit your task, making it easier to work precisely. The 3/8-inch head size is fairly common and suitable for accessing tight spots, especially since the tool has a low-profile head design.

At just over 900 grams, it’s lightweight enough to handle comfortably for extended periods, which benefits those who work in tight or awkward spaces. Another useful feature is the built-in LED light that brightens your work area, particularly in dim or enclosed spaces. Since it uses DEWALT’s 12V MAX lithium-ion batteries (sold separately), you can expect decent runtime typical for this voltage class, although having to buy the battery separately might be inconvenient if you don’t already own compatible batteries. The tool’s glass-filled nylon housing improves durability against oils and solvents, which is a plus in tougher workshop environments.

Although it doesn’t come with a battery or charger included, its compact size, solid torque, and lighting feature make it well-suited for DIYers and professionals who want a dependable, portable ratchet wrench for medium-duty tasks.