Key Takeaways
- Both kits feature brushless technology. The 3494-22 uses subcompact brushless motors while the 3497-22 features FUEL brushless technology, delivering 57% more drill torque (550 vs 350 in-lbs) for demanding applications.
- The FUEL kit comes with one 4.0Ah XC and one 2.0Ah CP battery, while the 3494-22 includes two 2.0Ah CP batteries, providing significantly more runtime potential.
- At just 5.4" in length and 2.0 lbs with battery, the 3494-22's drill is more compact than the 3497-22's 5.9" drill, ideal for ultra-tight spaces.
- The FUEL impact driver features Tri-LED lighting for maximum workspace visibility, compared to standard LED on the 3494-22, plus 4-Mode Drive Control for versatile fastening.
- GenuineTools offers Milwaukee® M12 combo kits at prices that are up to 60% off MSRP, with fast shipping and our 4.5 TrustScore rating reflecting customer satisfaction with authentic Milwaukee® products and responsive service.
Core Differences Between the 3494-22 & 3497-22 Drill Kits
Both Milwaukee® kits include a hammer drill driver and an impact driver with brushless motor technology, but the specifications and features create significant performance gaps.
The 3497-22 is positioned as Milwaukee®'s premium FUEL offering with enhanced components and capabilities, while the 3494-22 emphasizes ultra-compact size and lightweight design. Let's break down exactly what separates these two popular M12 combo kits.
Subcompact Brushless vs. FUEL Brushless Technology
The FUEL brushless technology in the 3497-22 represents Milwaukee®'s most advanced cordless platform, engineered specifically for maximum power in a subcompact form factor. The 3494-22's subcompact brushless design prioritizes the smallest possible footprint while still delivering professional-grade brushless performance. The difference is particularly apparent when drilling through dense materials or driving large fasteners, where the 3497-22's 57% torque advantage provides noticeably more power reserves.
Milwaukee®'s engineering teams designed these platforms for different priorities. The 3497-22 FUEL system targets users who need maximum power in a compact package, while the 3494-22 subcompact design serves professionals working in the tightest spaces where every fraction of an inch matters. Both eliminate the heat and inefficiency of brushed motors while providing long-lasting performance.
Power Output & Performance Specs
The 3497-22 FUEL delivers significantly more torque compared to the 3494-22. The hammer drill in the 3497-22 produces up to 1,700 RPM and 550 in-lbs of torque, while the 3494-22's drill reaches 1,550 RPM with 350 in-lbs of torque.
Similarly, the impact driver in the 3497-22 delivers up to 3,300 RPM and 1,300 in-lbs of torque compared to the 3494-22's 3,000 RPM and 1,100 in-lbs. These performance gains translate to faster drilling, more efficient fastening, and the ability to handle tougher materials without stalling or straining.
Design & Build Quality Comparison
Milwaukee®'s attention to detail is evident in both kits, with both featuring premium brushless motors and quality components throughout. The 3497-22 FUEL tools feature 1/2" all-metal chucks for maximum durability and bit retention, while the 3494-22 uses a 3/8" metal chuck.
The FUEL tools also incorporate 4-Mode Drive Control on the impact driver with dedicated self-tapping screw mode and Tri-LED lighting for maximum workspace visibility. Both kits have excellent build quality, though the 3497-22's larger chuck and enhanced features provide advantages in demanding applications.
Weight & Handling Differences
The 3494-22 achieves remarkable compactness with its drill measuring just 5.4" in length and weighing only 2.0 lbs with a 2.0Ah battery, making it the lightest and most compact option. The impact driver measures 4.3" long and weighs just 1.7 lbs with battery.
The 3497-22 FUEL drill is slightly longer at 5.9" and the impact driver measures 5" long (7.6" tall with battery), though both maintain excellent balance and control. Both kits feature Milwaukee®'s ergonomic grip design with premium rubber overmold, but the 3494-22's ultra-compact dimensions provide superior access in the tightest spaces while the 3497-22 offers more power for demanding tasks.
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Price Breakdown & Value Analysis
Current Market Pricing for Both Models
The Milwaukee® 3497-22 FUEL typically retails for around $249, while the 3494-22 can usually be found for approximately $199. These prices fluctuate during seasonal promotions and sales events, but the premium for the FUEL technology generally remains consistent. Both kits include two batteries, a charger, and a carrying case, ensuring you have everything needed to get started right out of the box.
What the Extra Cost Gets You with the 3497-22
The additional investment in the 3497-22 FUEL delivers substantial upgrades beyond the higher torque ratings.
The extra cost of the 3497-22 combo kit gets you a superior battery configuration with one 4.0Ah XC battery paired with a 2.0Ah compact battery, compared to the two 2.0Ah batteries in the 3494-22.
The FUEL tools feature 1/2" all-metal chucks for maximum bit retention, 4-Mode Drive Control with self-tapping screw mode on the impact driver, and Tri-LED lighting for enhanced workspace visibility. These improvements translate to tools that deliver more power and runtime while providing enhanced features for professional applications.
Long-Term Value Considerations
When evaluating long-term value, both kits offer excellent brushless motor longevity and durability. The 3497-22 FUEL provides more power reserves and superior battery configuration for demanding professional use, while the 3494-22 delivers exceptional value with ultra-compact brushless performance at a lower price point.
Both feature Milwaukee®'s advanced brushless technology that minimizes maintenance and extends tool life significantly compared to older brushed designs.
Battery System & Runtime Comparison
Battery technology represents one of the most significant differences between these two kits, with the 3497-22 offering a substantial advantage in capacity while the 3494-22 emphasizes lightweight compactness.
Battery Capacity & Type
The 3497-22 FUEL includes one M12 REDLITHIUM XC 4.0Ah extended capacity battery and one M12 REDLITHIUM CP 2.0Ah compact battery. In contrast, the 3494-22 comes with two 2.0Ah compact batteries.
This difference translates to significantly more runtime potential with the 3497-22, particularly when using the 4.0Ah battery which delivers up to twice the runtime of a standard 2.0Ah pack. The XC battery also maintains power output more consistently throughout the discharge cycle, ensuring the tools perform at their peak even as the battery depletes.
Charging Time Differences
Both kits include Milwaukee®'s standard M12 charger (48-59-2401), which requires approximately 30 minutes to charge a 2.0Ah battery and 60–70 minutes for the 4.0Ah battery.
While charging times are similar for equivalent battery capacities, the 3497-22's inclusion of both a compact and extended capacity battery provides more flexibility for managing charging cycles during extended work sessions.
Expected Runtime per Charge
The runtime difference between these kits depends heavily on which batteries are being compared. When using 2.0Ah batteries, both kits deliver similar runtime since they share brushless motor efficiency.
However, the 3497-22's included 4.0Ah battery provides substantially longer runtime; approximately 200+ screw drives (3" deck screws) compared to around 100 with a 2.0Ah battery. The 3494-22's ultra-compact design also contributes to efficiency, though the 3497-22 FUEL's enhanced power management can provide slight runtime advantages in demanding applications.
Milwaukee® 3494-22 vs 3497-22: Comparison Table
|
Feature |
Milwaukee® 3494-22 (Subcompact Brushless) |
Milwaukee® 3497-22 (FUEL Brushless Technology) |
|
Brushless Motor Type |
Subcompact brushless motors optimized for compactness |
POWERSTATE brushless motors for maximum power density |
|
Drill Torque |
350 in-lbs |
550 in-lbs (57% more torque) |
|
Impact Torque |
1,100 in-lbs |
1,300 in-lbs (18% more torque) |
|
Drill Speed (RPM) |
Up to 1,550 RPM |
Up to 1,700 RPM |
|
Impact Driver Speed |
Up to 3,000 RPM |
Up to 3,300 RPM |
|
Drill Length |
5.4 inches |
5.9 inches |
|
Impact Driver Length |
4.3 inches |
5 inches (7.6 inches tall with battery) |
|
Drill Weight (with Battery) |
2.0 lbs |
Slightly heavier |
|
Battery Configuration |
Two 2.0Ah CP batteries |
One 4.0Ah XC battery + one 2.0Ah CP battery |
|
Battery Runtime |
Good, with two 2.0Ah batteries |
Longer runtime, especially with 4.0Ah battery |
|
Chuck Size |
3/8" metal chuck |
1/2" all-metal chuck |
|
Lighting |
Standard LED lighting |
Tri-LED lighting |
|
Drive Control |
Standard |
4-Mode Drive Control with self-tapping screw mode |
|
Ergonomics |
Ultra-compact for tight spaces |
Slightly larger, designed for maximum power |
|
Performance Summary |
Best for ultra-tight spaces, lighter weight |
Best for demanding applications needing maximum power |
Choose Your Milwaukee® M12 Kit at GenuineTools
At GenuineTools, we understand that choosing the right tool affects your productivity and project success. That's why we stock the best Milwaukee® M12 combo kits at prices that respect your budget without compromising authenticity.
Our relationships with distributors enable us to offer competitive pricing (up to 60% off MSRP) on genuine products, backed by fast shipping, a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, and responsive service our 4.5 TrustScore reflects.
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If you're a professional contractor tackling demanding jobsite applications or a dedicated DIYer working in tight residential spaces, we're here to provide the expert guidance and quality tools you need. Browse our complete Milwaukee® M12 selection today, and experience the GenuineTools difference where professional-grade tools meet honest pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What's the main difference between the 3494-22 and 3497-22?
The primary difference is that the 3497-22 features FUEL brushless technology with significantly higher torque (550 in-lbs drill / 1,300 in-lbs impact) compared to the 3494-22's subcompact brushless design (350 in-lbs drill / 1,100 in-lbs impact).
However, the 3494-22 achieves the most compact dimensions in Milwaukee®'s M12 lineup at just 5.4" drill length. The 3497-22 also includes a superior battery configuration (4.0Ah XC + 2.0Ah CP) versus the 3494-22's two 2.0Ah batteries, plus enhanced features like Tri-LED lighting and 4-Mode Drive Control. Both feature quality brushless motors for long-lasting, maintenance-free performance.
Can I use the same batteries with both the 3494-22 and 3497-22 kits?
Yes, both kits use Milwaukee®'s M12 battery platform, making all batteries fully interchangeable between the tools. Any M12 REDLITHIUM battery will work with either kit, allowing you to mix and match batteries based on your specific needs. This compatibility extends throughout Milwaukee®'s entire M12 lineup, which currently includes over 150 tools.
Is the 3497-22 worth the extra cost over the 3494-22?
For users who regularly tackle demanding applications or need maximum power, the 3497-22's $50 price premium represents excellent value. The 57% higher drill torque, 18% higher impact torque, superior battery configuration with 4.0Ah XC battery, and enhanced features like Tri-LED lighting and 4-Mode Drive Control justify the additional cost for professionals and serious DIYers who will utilize these capabilities.
Why should I purchase Milwaukee® combo kits from GenuineTools?
At GenuineTools, we offer Milwaukee® combo kits at competitive prices that consistently beat big-box retailers. We source all products from premium grade distributors, ensuring you receive authentic Milwaukee® tools with full manufacturer warranty coverage. If you need the 3497-22 FUEL's maximum power, we help you get professional-grade Milwaukee® tools at honest prices.
*Note: Pricing and/or product availability mentioned in this post are subject to change. Please check the website for current pricing and stock information before making a purchase.