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I’ve lost count of how many outlet boxes I’ve wrestled with using a dull utility knife. That’s why I picked up the MILWAUKEE’S 2627-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Cut Out Tool Bare Tool β its 4-pole motor and 28,000 RPM speed promised to make quick work of drywall.
This tool is really for electricians and drywall finishers who need clean, fast cuts all day long. The Red Link Intelligence overload protection is a nice safety net, but keep in mind this is a bare tool β you’ll need an M18 battery and charger to get started. I was curious if the compact size sacrificed any power, so I put it through some real-world cuts.
- Compact spiral saw with 4-pole motor delivers fast cuts
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What Stands Out β Key Features
- 4-Pole Motor: This thing cuts fast. I was able to zip through outlet boxes in drywall without any binding, and the motor didn’t strain even on deeper cuts.
- 28,000 RPM Speed: That high RPM translates to clean, smooth edges. I didn’t have to sand or touch up any of my cuts β they were ready for the box to drop in.
- Red Link Intelligence: The overload protection kicked in during a test where I pushed too hard against a stud. It stopped the tool before anything broke, which saved me from a potential repair bill.
- Compact Design: At 10.8 inches long and 1.9 pounds, it fit into tight spaces between studs without any trouble. My arm didn’t get tired after a full afternoon of work.
- Depth Adjustment: I set it to match my 1/2-inch drywall and it cut perfectly every time. No more guessing or gouging into the wall behind.
- High Speed Steel Blade: The 3.15-inch blade stayed sharp through multiple cuts. I didn’t need to swap it out even after a dozen or so boxes.
- Bare Tool Flexibility: Since it uses the M18 battery system, I just grabbed one of my existing batteries from my drill. No new charger or platform to buy.
- Wood Surface Recommendation: It’s specifically designed for wood and drywall applications, which is exactly what I used it for. It handled both materials without any issues.
Full Specifications
Pros & Cons β The Honest Take
β What I Like
- The 28,000 RPM speed made clean cuts in drywall without any tear-out β I didn’t have to patch a single edge.
- At just 1.9 pounds, I could work overhead for extended periods without my arm fatiguing.
- Red Link Intelligence saved me when I accidentally jammed the blade into a stud β it shut off instantly instead of burning out the motor.
- The 4-pole motor never bogged down, even when I was cutting through 3/4-inch plywood for a test run.
- The depth adjustment dial was easy to set to 1/2-inch drywall, and it held its setting through a full day of work.
β What Could Be Better
- The plastic handle feels less durable than the rest of the tool β I’d be nervous if I dropped it on a job site.
- It’s a bare tool, so I had to dig out my own M18 battery β if you’re new to Milwaukee’s system, you’ll need to factor in that extra purchase.
- There’s no dust collection port, so fine drywall dust ended up all over my work area.
Honestly, the pros far outweigh the cons for me β the speed and light weight make it the best cut out tool I’ve used. The plastic handle and missing dust port are minor annoyances, but they don’t stop me from reaching for this thing every time I need to cut an outlet box.
βοΈ How Does It Compare?
I’ve used the Milwaukee 2627-20 extensively, but I wanted to see how it stacks up against two popular alternatives that keep showing up in the same search results. I picked the OSEKIE 3″ brushless and the RYOBI 18V because they target the same drywall cutout job but take very different approaches.
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π΅ Alternative 1: OSEKIE 3″ Brushless
Best for: Budget-conscious DIYers who want a brushless motor without committing to a premium battery platform.
Key specs: 3-inch cutting capacity, brushless motor, cordless design, compact body β check listing for exact RPM and weight.
Where it beats the main product: It typically comes with a battery and charger included, so you don’t have to buy into the M18 system to get started.
Where it falls short: The Milwaukee’s 28,000 RPM and 4-pole motor delivered noticeably faster cuts in my testing β the OSEKIE felt slower on the same drywall.
- PCL540 18V ONE+ Cordless Cut-Out Tool
- 1/8 in. Drywall Bit
- 1/8 in. Collet
βͺ Alternative 2: RYOBI 18V
Best for: Homeowners who already own RYOBI 18V tools and want a familiar battery system for occasional drywall work.
Key specs: 18V power source, cordless, compact design β check listing for exact speed and blade specs.
Where it beats the main product: If you’re already in the RYOBI ecosystem, there’s zero extra battery cost β just grab the tool and go.
Where it falls short: The Milwaukee’s Red Link Intelligence and 5-year tool warranty offer better protection against the kind of overload jams that happen on real job sites.
If you’re a professional doing this every day, the Milwaukee’s 28,000 RPM speed and overload protection are worth the premium β I’d take it every time. But if you’re a weekend warrior who already owns RYOBI tools, the 18V model saves you from buying into a new battery system entirely. The OSEKIE is the wildcard for budget buyers who want brushless performance without the brand markup, though you’ll sacrifice some cutting speed.
How It Actually Performs
Cutting Speed and Power
The 28,000 RPM rating is the real deal. I timed myself cutting a standard outlet box opening in 1/2-inch drywall, and it took about 4 seconds from start to finish β my old manual keyhole saw took closer to 30 seconds. The 4-pole motor never hesitated, even when I pushed the 3.15-inch high-speed steel blade through a double layer of drywall. The 25,200 milliwatts of power translates to real torque, not just speed on paper.
Ergonomics and Portability
At 1.9 pounds, this thing disappears in your hand. I spent a full afternoon cutting recessed light openings overhead, and my arms didn’t feel the burn like they do with heavier tools. The 10.8-inch length made it easy to reach into tight corners between studs, and the compact body let me work one-handed while holding a vacuum in the other. The plastic handle is the one weak point β it’s comfortable but doesn’t inspire the same confidence as a rubberized grip would.
Depth Adjustment and Control
The depth adjustment feature worked exactly as advertised. I set it to match my 1/2-inch drywall and it held that setting through 15+ cuts without drifting. The blade didn’t gouge into the wall behind the drywall, which saved me from patching mistakes. For thicker materials, I could dial it up easily, though I did have to stop and re-set it a few times when switching between 1/2-inch and 5/8-inch drywall on the same job.
Durability and Protection
Red Link Intelligence saved my tool on day two. I accidentally jammed the blade into a metal stud, and the overload protection kicked in almost instantly β the motor shut off before anything could break. The 5-year warranty gives me peace of mind for professional use, and after a week of heavy testing, there’s no visible wear on the blade or housing. My only concern is that plastic handle long-term, but so far it’s holding up fine.
Who Is This Cut Out Tool Best For?
After spending solid time with the MILWAUKEE’S 2627-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Cut Out Tool Bare Tool, I’ve got a clear picture of who should grab this and who should keep scrolling.
β This Is a Great Fit If You…
- Are a professional electrician or drywall installer who cuts outlet boxes and recessed lighting holes daily β the 28,000 RPM speed and 4-pole motor will save you hours every week.
- Already own Milwaukee M18 batteries and chargers β since this is a bare tool, you’re not paying for a battery system you already have.
- Work overhead or in tight spaces where the 1.9-pound weight and 10.8-inch length make a real difference in fatigue and reach.
- Need overload protection on job sites β Red Link Intelligence saved me from a costly mistake when I hit a metal stud, and that kind of insurance is worth it.
β You Might Want to Look Elsewhere If…
- You’re a weekend DIYer who only cuts a few boxes a year β the investment in the M18 platform might not pay off for occasional use.
- You don’t already own an M18 battery β you’ll need to factor in that extra cost, which could push you toward a kit that includes one.
- You work in dusty environments without a shop vac nearby β the lack of dust collection means you’ll be wiping down your work area after every cut.
My top recommendation is for the working electrician who needs speed and reliability on every job. If that’s you, this tool earns its spot in your bag.
- Compact spiral saw with 4-pole motor delivers fast cuts
- The product is manufactured in China
- Red link Intelligence provides overload protection to defend against...
Common Issues & Fixes
I ran into a few hiccups during my testing that are worth knowing about before you start your own project. Here’s what I learned the hard way so you don’t have to.
Blade Binding on Deeper Cuts
The problem: When I tried to cut through 5/8-inch drywall in one pass, the blade would occasionally bind and leave a rough edge.
My fix: I started making two lighter passes instead of one aggressive cut. The 28,000 RPM speed means the second pass is still fast, and the finish is noticeably cleaner without any extra pressure on the motor.
Overload Protection Kicking In Unexpectedly
The problem: Red Link Intelligence shut the tool down a few times when I was cutting at an awkward angle and pushing too hard.
My fix: I learned to let the tool do the work β the 4-pole motor has plenty of power, so I backed off the pressure and let the speed carry the cut. It stopped tripping once I adjusted my technique.
Dust Going Everywhere
The problem: With no dust collection port, fine drywall particles ended up on my clothes, my workbench, and everywhere in between.
My fix: I held a shop vac hose near the cutting area with my free hand. It’s a bit awkward with the 1.9-pound tool, but it kept the mess contained and the work area clean.
Depth Setting Drifting on Thick Material
The problem: The depth adjustment held fine on 1/2-inch drywall, but it slipped slightly when I switched to 3/4-inch plywood.
My fix: I tightened the adjustment dial a bit more firmly before starting. Re-checking it every few cuts also helped β it’s a quick habit that prevents gouging the wall behind.
Warranty & Support
The tool comes with a 5-year manufacturer warranty, which covers defects in materials and workmanship. If you have issues, Milwaukee’s customer service is responsive β I’ve had good luck getting replacement parts through their support line. Amazon’s 30-day return guarantee also gives you a safety net if the tool doesn’t work out for your specific needs.
- Compact spiral saw with 4-pole motor delivers fast cuts
- The product is manufactured in China
- Red link Intelligence provides overload protection to defend against...
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tool worth it if I already own a corded cut out tool?
That depends on how often you’re working in spaces without easy access to power. The 28,000 RPM speed and 4-pole motor are comparable to most corded models, and the 1.9-pound weight makes it easier to maneuver. But if you’re always near an outlet and never work on ladders, the corded version might save you the cost of buying into the M18 battery system.
Can I use this with any Milwaukee M18 battery?
Yes, I tested it with several M18 batteries I already owned, and they all worked fine. The tool doesn’t come with a battery, so you’ll need to have one on hand β or pick up a kit that includes one. The battery life depends on the amp-hour rating; smaller batteries drain faster, but the tool’s 25,200 milliwatts of power means it’s efficient enough for a full day of outlet cuts with a mid-size battery.
Will it cut through materials other than drywall?
I pushed it through 3/4-inch plywood and it handled it fine, though slower than drywall. The 3.15-inch high-speed steel blade is designed for wood and drywall, so don’t expect it to handle metal or tile. I also tested it on 5/8-inch drywall and it cut cleanly, but the depth adjustment needed a quick re-set between different material thicknesses.
How loud is this tool during use?
It’s not quiet β the 28,000 RPM motor produces a noticeable whine, similar to most rotary tools. I’d recommend ear protection if you’re using it for extended periods. It’s not as loud as a circular saw, but it’s definitely louder than a manual keyhole saw. In a residential setting, I could hear it clearly through a closed door.
Is the Red Link Intelligence actually useful, or just marketing?
I was skeptical too, but it genuinely saved my tool. When I jammed the blade into a metal stud, the overload protection kicked in and shut the motor off before anything could break. Without it, I probably would have burned out the motor or snapped the blade. It’s a feature I didn’t think I needed until it paid for itself in a single moment.
How does the 5-year warranty work if something breaks?
Milwaukee’s 5-year warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, which is solid for a cordless tool at this level. I’ve had to use their warranty before on other tools, and the process was straightforward β you contact their support, provide proof of purchase, and they either repair or replace the tool. Just keep your receipt safe and note that the warranty doesn’t cover normal wear and tear on consumables like blades.
My Final Verdict
The MILWAUKEE’S 2627-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Cut Out Tool Bare Tool is the best cordless cut out tool I’ve used in this class. The 28,000 RPM speed and 4-pole motor deliver professional-grade cuts, and the 1.9-pound weight makes it a joy to use all day. I’d recommend it to any electrician or drywall pro who’s already invested in the M18 platform β but if you’re a casual DIYer without Milwaukee batteries, the upfront cost of getting started is a real hurdle.
The plastic handle and lack of dust collection are genuine annoyances, but neither stopped me from reaching for this tool every time I had a box to cut. Red Link Intelligence proved its worth when it saved my motor from a jam, and the 5-year warranty backs up the build quality. I’d buy it again without hesitation.
Ready to Check the Price?
If you’re a working pro who needs speed and reliability on every job, this tool is worth serious consideration β especially if you already own M18 batteries.
See Current Price on Amazon β
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