As 2025 comes to a close and the industry looks ahead to 2026, it’s the perfect time to look back at the tools that actually mattered this year. Not hype, not concept tools, real equipment that professionals bought, used, and put to work every day. Based on units sold and overall excitement, we ranked the Top New Tools of 2025, giving a clear snapshot of where the trades are heading.
From cordless drain cleaning and pipe prep to storage innovation and jobsite convenience, this list reflects one major theme: tools that save time, reduce strain, and deliver repeatable results are winning.
#10 – RIDGID K-46 Cordless Drain Snake (RD78048)
RIDGID built its reputation on drain cleaning, and the K-46 Cordless Drain Snake is a clear evolution of a tool plumbers have trusted for decades. While the original corded version set the standard, the cordless market has become crowded, forcing RIDGID to rethink usability, not just power.
The K-46 is available both as a bare tool and as complete kits for crews looking to get up and running immediately. The K-46 Cordless SinkSnake Kit (RD78053) includes a 5/16″ x 25′ IC cable along with an 18V 2.5Ah battery and charger, making it a solid entry point for residential service work. For plumbers who want maximum versatility, the K-46 Cordless SinkSnake Deluxe Kit (RD78058) steps things up with both a 5/16″ x 25′ cable and a 3/8″ x 35′ cable, the T-250 tool set, a carrying case, plus the same 18V 2.5Ah battery and charger, covering a wider range of drain sizes straight out of the box.
The standout improvement on the tool itself is the multi-position kickstand, which allows the unit to remain stable whether you’re working under a sink, beside a tub, or in a shower stall. This added stability reduces fatigue and improves control, especially in tight residential spaces. Powered by an 18V battery platform, the K-46 delivers enough torque to clear blockages up to 3 inches, making it ideal for common residential drain calls.
Compatibility remains a major selling point. The K-46 accepts ¼″ to ⅜″ RIDGID drain cables and the full lineup of RIDGID cutter heads, allowing plumbers to integrate it seamlessly into existing setups. When paired with battery crossover compatibility with RIDGID inspection equipment, the K-46 becomes a practical cordless foundation for modern plumbing crews, whether purchased as a standalone tool or as a fully equipped kit.
#9 – DEWALT 20V MAX Pipe Deburring Tool
(DW-DCE710B)
Pipe prep has traditionally been a manual task, but DEWALT changed that in 2025 with the launch of the DCE710B, the first dedicated cordless pipe deburring tool from a major manufacturer. Instead of an attachment or workaround, DEWALT committed to a purpose-built solution on its 20V MAX platform.
The tool handles ⅜″ to 2″ pipe across a wide range of materials, including PVC, copper, steel, and black iron. This makes it ideal for plumbers, HVAC techs, and mechanical contractors who need clean, consistent pipe edges for fittings and welds. By automating a repetitive task, it reduces hand fatigue while improving consistency job after job.
While the price is higher than manual reamers, the value becomes clear for professionals doing pipe work all day. Faster prep, consistent results, and less strain translate directly into productivity gains, one reason this tool exceeded expectations in both sales and adoption.
#8 – Milwaukee M18 FUEL ½″–1″ Steel Pipe Cutter (3469-20)
Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL Steel Pipe Cutter may not have launched with massive fanfare, but its performance quickly built a loyal following. Designed for ½″ to 1″ steel pipe, this tool delivers precise, square cuts without sparks, burrs, or secondary cleanup.
Compared to band saws and grinders, the pipe cutter excels in consistency and control. Every cut lands at a true 90 degrees, making it ideal for threading, welding, or direct fitting. This level of repeatability is especially valuable for mechanical contractors working in tight mechanical rooms or finished spaces.
At $429, it’s clearly aimed at professionals who cut pipe regularly. For those users, the reduced setup time, cleaner cuts, and quieter operation make it a worthwhile investment, especially when paired with a cordless deburring solution.
#7 – Milwaukee M18 FUEL Branch Conduit Bender
w/ AUTO-ZERO (5150-20)
Conduit bending has always been physically demanding and highly dependent on skill. Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL Branch Conduit Bender redefines that process by delivering repeatable, standardized bends without the physical strain of manual benders.
Launched to immediate demand at NECA, this tool uses AUTO-ZERO technology to maintain accuracy from bend to bend, ensuring consistency across crews and job sites. This is especially valuable for larger electrical projects where uniformity and precision are critical.
While the price is significantly higher than hand benders, contractors quickly recognized the long-term benefits: reduced fatigue, fewer errors, and faster training for newer electricians. It’s a prime example of Milwaukee targeting productivity at scale.
#6 – DEWALT 8-¾″ Construction Foot Jack
(DW-DWHT83550)
DEWALT’s Construction Foot Jack proves that innovation doesn’t always require batteries or electronics. This compact mechanical jack delivers 340 lbs of lifting capacity, making it an invaluable third hand for installers.
From hanging doors and cabinets to positioning windows and drywall, the foot-operated design allows precise control while keeping hands free. Unlike lower-capacity alternatives, this jack can be operated directly from the floor, increasing versatility on real job sites.
At around $129, it offers exceptional value and has quickly gained traction among carpenters, remodelers, and installers who see immediate benefits after using it once.
#5 – Klein Tools MODbox Single Drawers
(KLN-54844MB / KLN-54821MB)
Tool storage has been steadily evolving from simple boxes into fully customizable systems, and Klein’s MODbox Single Drawers are one of the clearest examples of that shift in 2025. While modular stacking systems have been popular for years, they’ve always shared the same frustration: once your stack is built, accessing tools buried in the middle or bottom usually means unstacking everything above it. Klein addressed that pain point directly by introducing drawer-based access within the MODbox platform.
The single-drawer design may seem simple on paper, but in real jobsite use it fundamentally changes how tradespeople organize and transport their tools. Instead of building tall stacks that must be broken down to grab one item, users can now keep frequently used hand tools, electrical supplies, or fasteners in drawers that slide open instantly. This makes it far easier to stay organized throughout the day, especially when moving between tasks or working out of a service vehicle where time and space matter.
Another key reason these drawers gained traction so quickly is how well they support workflow-driven setups. Electricians, HVAC techs, and service plumbers can tailor their MODbox stacks by task, bringing only what’s needed for troubleshooting, installs, or maintenance calls. That means fewer trips back to the truck, less wasted motion, and a cleaner, more efficient jobsite presence. The availability of different drawer configurations further reinforces the idea that storage should adapt to the user, not the other way around.
The popularity of the MODbox Single Drawers also reflects a broader industry trend: professionals are prioritizing accessibility, organization, and efficiency over raw storage capacity. Instead of carrying everything “just in case,” crews want systems that help them work faster and smarter. Klein’s move into drawer-based modular storage shows that even small design changes, when they solve real-world problems, can have a major impact on how tools are used day to day.
#4 – Milwaukee 366-Piece Master Mechanics Tool Set (48-22-9495)
The Milwaukee 366-Piece Master Mechanics Tool Set stands as one of the brand’s most ambitious and strategic hand tool releases to date. While none of the individual sockets, ratchets, or accessories were entirely new to Milwaukee’s lineup, the way they were packaged and organized completely changed how professionals viewed a “master set.” This wasn’t just a large assortment of tools, it was a fully integrated, job-ready system built around PACKOUT drawer storage.
The scale of the set also matters. With 366 pieces covering a wide range of fastening applications, this kit is designed to handle everything from daily service calls to full mechanical tear-downs. Instead of piecing together multiple socket sets, ratchets, and organizers over time, users get a complete solution that arrives ready to roll. That turnkey approach is exactly why demand spiked before launch and why the first shipment disappeared almost immediately.
What truly set this release apart was the custom foam organization inside PACKOUT drawers, giving every tool a dedicated place. That level of organization dramatically reduces downtime on the jobsite, eliminates tool digging, and makes it immediately obvious when something is missing. For fleet managers and shop leads, that visibility adds accountability. For individual techs, it means faster setups, cleaner tear-downs, and less frustration during the workday.
The response to this set reinforces a growing trend in the industry: professionals are moving away from piecemeal tool buying and toward complete, organized systems that integrate seamlessly into their existing storage platforms. Milwaukee didn’t just sell hand tools here, they sold efficiency, consistency, and workflow. With additional inventory expected in early 2026, it’s clear this release wasn’t a one-off success, but a strong indicator of where professional hand tool systems are headed next.
#3 – EGO Power+ Snow Shovels
(EGO-SNS1201 & EGO-SSA1200)
EGO’s cordless snow shovels are a perfect example of a tool filling a gap many tradespeople and homeowners didn’t realize existed until they saw it in action. Instead of replacing full-size snow blowers, these tools are designed to handle the kind of snowfall that’s common across much of the Midwest and similar regions, quick-hit storms, sidewalks, decks, steps, and tight areas were dragging out large equipment feels excessive.
Both the dedicated EGO-SNS1201 and the EGO-SSA1200 multi-head attachment clear a 12-inch-wide path through up to 6 inches of snow, making them ideal for cleanup after overnight snowfalls, touch-ups during the day, or clearing areas a snow blower can’t easily reach. For contractors, property managers, and facility maintenance crews, that means faster response times without the noise, fumes, or maintenance associated with gas-powered equipment.
Flexibility is a major advantage here. Users already invested in EGO’s multi-head system can simply add the attachment, while others may prefer the all-in-one dedicated unit for grab-and-go convenience. Functionally, both deliver the same performance, reinforcing EGO’s strength in battery-powered outdoor equipment without forcing users into a single configuration.
The popularity of these snow shovels caught many retailers by surprise, with demand quickly outpacing supply, especially in regions that don’t traditionally rely on snow equipment every winter. That response highlights a broader trend: cordless outdoor power tools are no longer niche products. As battery performance continues to improve, professionals and homeowners alike are embracing electric solutions for seasonal tasks, and EGO’s snow shovels are a clear sign that lighter-duty, high-convenience tools are becoming essential parts of modern equipment lineups.
#2 – Milwaukee M18 Brushless Precision Blower
(0887-20)
The Milwaukee M18 Brushless Precision Blower was one of the biggest surprises of 2025. On paper, the specs didn’t immediately grab attention, 39 CFM is modest compared to traditional blowers, and many assumed it would be a niche or novelty tool. That perception changed quickly once users experienced the real-world performance driven by its 570 MPH focused air velocity.
The key to this tool’s success lies in its precision tip system. Milwaukee includes multiple interchangeable tips designed to concentrate airflow exactly where it’s needed, whether that’s blowing debris out of a PACKOUT drawer, clearing dust from electrical panels, or cleaning out tight mechanical spaces. Instead of dispersing air broadly, the blower delivers controlled, high-speed bursts that are far more effective for detailed cleanup tasks.
In daily use, the Precision Blower has proven to be incredibly versatile. Electricians, HVAC techs, mechanics, and service crews quickly adopted it as a go-to solution for jobs where compressed air isn’t practical or available. The onboard tip storage keeps everything organized, reinforcing the grab-and-go nature of the tool and making it easy to keep in a truck or tool bag.
Its popularity underscores a recurring theme across 2025 tool launches: practicality wins. While it may not be the most powerful blower in Milwaukee’s lineup, it solves a common problem more effectively than larger, louder alternatives. The strong adoption of the M18 Precision Blower proves that well-executed, task-focused tools often outperform flashier releases when it comes to real-world demand.
#1 – Milwaukee PACKOUT Rolling Deep Drawer Toolbox (48-22-8420)
Earning the top spot of 2025, the Milwaukee PACKOUT Rolling Deep Drawer Tool Box represents one of the most important evolutions in modular storage since PACKOUT first launched. For years, professionals accepted one major compromise with stacked storage systems: once everything was stacked, accessing tools at the bottom meant unstacking the entire tower. Milwaukee finally eliminated that frustration by combining rolling mobility with full-width drawer access in a single base unit.
The deep drawer design fundamentally changes how tradespeople interact with their storage throughout the day. Instead of lifting heavy boxes or breaking down stacks, users can simply slide open the drawer and grab what they need, saving time, reducing strain, and keeping workflows moving. This is especially impactful for service techs and contractors who are in and out of their storage constantly, whether on the jobsite or working directly out of a truck or trailer.
At around $249, this tool box carries a premium price compared to traditional rolling PACKOUT bases. However, the response made it clear that professionals were willing to pay for meaningful improvements in efficiency. Sales volume and overall excitement showed that convenience, accessibility, and reduced downtime easily outweighed the added cost. The drawer also integrates seamlessly with the rest of the PACKOUT ecosystem, allowing users to build upward without sacrificing usability at ground level.
There has been some discussion around the drawer relying on the ground for stability, but real-world feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Most users quickly adapted their setups, and any concerns were overshadowed by the productivity gains. The overwhelming success of the Rolling Deep Drawer Toolbox perfectly encapsulates where modern tool storage is headed: less lifting, faster access, and smarter design that prioritizes how tools are actually used on the job.
2026 Popular Item Predictions: Tools Poised to Take Over the Jobsite
As 2025 wraps up, a few upcoming releases are already generating serious buzz. Based on early previews, trade show feedback, and customer demand, these tools and gear stand out as likely breakout hits in 2026. Whether it’s limited-run safety gear, major cordless expansions, or smarter jobsite tech, these predictions reflect where the industry is clearly headed next.
Lift Safety DAX Matte Black American Flag Hard Hat (LIFT-HDF-25PRM)
If 2026 has a “coolest hard hat on the jobsite” contender, this is it. Lift’s DAX hard hats have already built a loyal following thanks to their fiber-reinforced resin construction, comfort-focused suspension systems, and bold designs that stand out without sacrificing safety. The upcoming matte black American Flag edition takes that formula and pushes it even further.
Previous DAX American flag variants sold out quickly, and this version adds two factors that make demand even stronger: a matte black finish and a limited production run. Inside, Lift continues to deliver on comfort with generous padding and a balanced fit designed for all-day wear, something that matters just as much as protection for professionals on long shifts.
While these haven’t officially landed yet, early anticipation suggests they won’t stay on shelves for long once they do. For tradespeople who care about performance and personal style, this hard hat checks both boxes and is shaping up to be one of the most sought-after PPE releases of 2026.
STIHL New Cordless OPE: Leaf Blowers & 12″ / 14″ Concrete Cutters
STIHL’s push into professional-grade cordless equipment continues to accelerate, and 2026 could be a tipping point. Built around the AP battery system, STIHL has already rolled out backpack blowers, lawn mowers, chainsaws, and a 12-inch cordless concrete cutter, all aimed squarely at professional users.
What really turned heads this year was the preview of a 14-inch cordless concrete saw that reportedly outperforms STIHL’s legendary TS420 gas saw in certain applications. That’s a bold claim, considering the TS420 has long been considered the gold standard on jobsites. Combined with quieter operation, zero emissions, and reduced maintenance, it’s no surprise that landscapers, concrete crews, and municipalities are increasingly moving away from gas.
STIHL has also been aggressive with battery bundle promotions, lowering the barrier to entry by pairing tools with multiple batteries at a discount. That strategy is clearly designed to get more professionals fully invested in the AP platform, and the momentum suggests 2026 will see even more crews making the cordless switch.
Milwaukee M18 Bluetooth Jobsite Radio + Charger PACKOUT (2956-20)
Jobsite radios have come a long way, and Milwaukee’s upcoming M18 Bluetooth Jobsite Radio + Charger is shaping up to be one of the most advanced yet. Early confusion around its launch centered on one big question: Is it PACKOUT compatible? The answer turned out to be yes, despite initial messaging gaps, and that alone significantly boosted interest.
This unit combines premium sound quality, IP65-rated durability, an M18 battery charger, and Milwaukee’s Audio-Link technology, allowing multiple speakers to sync together across large jobsites. At around $299, it sits firmly in the premium category, but the feature set backs up the price point.
Another smart design choice is flexibility. While it integrates seamlessly into PACKOUT stacks, it’s not restricted to them, making it just as useful in shops, garages, or standalone jobsite setups. With pre-orders already gaining traction and shipping expected soon, this radio is positioned to become one of Milwaukee’s most popular accessories heading into 2026.
Looking back at the Top New Tools of 2025, one thing is clear: the tools that gained the most traction wasn’t just new, they solved real problems on real jobsites. From smarter storage and precision cleanup to cordless solutions that reduce strain and increase efficiency, this year’s most popular releases reflect how the trades are working today. Just as important, the early buzz around 2026 shows that momentum isn’t slowing down, with manufacturers doubling down on cordless platforms, integrated systems, and gear that blends performance with usability.
Whether you’re upgrading your setup, planning purchases for the year ahead, or just keeping an eye on what’s next, these tools offer a reliable snapshot of where the industry is headed. As always, all the tools discussed, and the expertise to help you choose the right one, can be found here at Ohio Power Tool. Thanks for following along, and here’s to working smarter, safer, and more efficiently in 2026.Don’t hesitate to reach out at cs@ohiopowertool.com or 614-481-2111 with any questions, comments, or concerns, and be sure to follow us on all your favorite social media channels to stay in the know on all the latest announcements, deals, news, and more!
