New Milwaukee and Ryobi Tool Announcements: 4 Releases Worth Watching

Introduction

Milwaukee and Ryobi have rolled out a fresh batch of releases, and this roundup covers four of the most interesting ones: a compact rechargeable flashlight, a battery-powered threading machine, a small M12 planer, and a versatile job site hand vacuum. Each one targets a different kind of user, from HVAC techs and pipe fitters to woodworkers and general contractors. Here is what you need to know before deciding which, if any, deserves a spot in your kit.

Milwaukee IA Flashlight

The Milwaukee IA flashlight is a rechargeable pocket light built for trades like HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical work. The cap comes off to expose the battery compartment, and it charges on a C-style faster charger. Milwaukee rates it at up to around 650 feet of throw, and it is water and dust resistant. You can also zoom to a finer point for more focused illumination.

The spec sheet is genuinely impressive for the size. At 0.57 pounds, it backs a limited lifetime warranty on the LED with four output modes: 2,000 lumens on high boost, 1,300 on high, 800 on medium, and 100 on low. Run time ranges from 24 hours on low, to 8 hours on medium, to 4 hours on high boost. Milwaukee also says it survived a 13-foot drop, three times, and charges three times faster than before. MSRP is $99, with a February 2023 release date attached.

Milwaukee MX Fuel Threading Machine

This one is for pipe fitters and plumbers. The MX Fuel threading machine is battery powered, comes with a collapsible stand and foot switch, and offers low and high speed settings. It is One-Key compatible, and the package includes two MX Fuel batteries and a charger rather than just one of each.

The headline feature for traditionalists is portability. Most threading work still happens on corded machines, so a battery-powered option opens up job sites without easy power access. Pipe capacity runs from 1/8 inch up to 2 inches, and Milwaukee is releasing universal dies for it, so you should not need to buy proprietary accessories to get started. MSRP is $699.99, with an April 2023 release window. Whether that price is fair depends heavily on how much you value cordless threading.

Milwaukee M12 Brushless 2-Inch Planer (2524-20)

For woodworkers and carpenters, the M12 brushless 2-inch planer is the smaller, lighter option in Milwaukee’s line. It has an adjustable depth gauge, a lockable kickstand that tucks away so it does not interfere with the workpiece, and vacuum hookup for dust control. It is clearly aimed at tasks like trimming door casings and cabinetry work where a full-size planer is overkill or too bulky for tight spaces.

The model number is 2524-20, and the specs back up the precision claim: up to 14,500 RPM, two blades on the cutter head, and 21 depth settings ranging from 0 to 5/64 of an inch. The package options include the planer itself, replacement 2-inch blades, a universal hose adapter, and a hex key. It carries a 5-year limited warranty on the tool, and it appears to already be available to order.

Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless Job Site Hand Vacuum

Ryobi’s new 18V One+ HP brushless job site hand vacuum is a three-in-one cleaner that works in stationary mode, stick mode, and hand vac mode. Thanks to One+ HP technology, it delivers more suction and filters more debris, and it adapts through nine different configurations. The included 1-1/4 inch hose adds flexibility for tighter areas, and the battery loads from the back.

If you already own Ryobi’s stick vacuum for hardwood floors, this extends the family rather than replacing it. It is built to pick up larger pieces of debris than the stick vac, with a range of attachments for different surfaces. Pricing comes in two ways: $119 tool only, or $159 as a kit with a 4Ah high-performance battery and charger. Given that the kit includes a battery and charger, the kit looks like the smarter buy for most people. It carries a 3-year manufacturer warranty and is sold exclusively at The Home Depot.

Buying Advice

Each of these releases makes sense for a specific buyer. The IA flashlight suits any tradesperson who works in dark mechanical spaces and wants a rugged, bright rechargeable light. The MX Fuel threading machine is a specialist purchase for pipe fitters who need cordless portability on job sites. The M12 planer is an easy recommendation for carpenters already invested in the M12 platform. And the Ryobi hand vacuum is a natural fit for One+ owners who want a compact, adaptable shop vacuum for job site cleanup. Match the tool to the work you actually do, and check whether a kit version with a battery saves you money before committing.

Conclusion

This batch covers a lot of ground: lighting, plumbing, woodworking, and cleanup. The IA flashlight and the M12 planer stand out as the most broadly useful, while the MX Fuel threading machine is a niche but notable step toward fully cordless pipe work. The Ryobi hand vacuum rounds things out as a flexible, affordable cleanup option. If any of these match your trade or your workshop, they are worth a closer look.