The new Milwaukee M18 Carry-on portable power supply (2845-20) made its debut at last week’s Pipeline 2022 media event.
This highly anticipated 15A power station features 1800W running power and 3600W peak starting power, and works with any Milwaukee M18 Li-ion batteries.
Additionally, it provides a pure sine wave AC output, which is suitable for powering everything from 15A tools to sensitive electronics.
While many tools with basic AC motor tools can handle the signal from “modified sine wave” power supplies and generators, many types of digital electronics work better with or even require a “pure sine wave” AC supply. With the M18 Carry-on’s pure sine wave output, this is something you won’t have to concern yourself with.
The Carry-on features (2) AC outlets, and both USB-A and USB-C PD charging ports.
M18 Carry-on Power Outputs
- 120V 15A (1800W total)
- USB-A: 5V, 2.1A (10.5W)
- USB-C: 5V/9V/12V/15V/20V, 3A (60W)
Milwaukee says the M18 Carry-on can be used for all kinds of tools and equipment, such as table saws, circular saws, air compressors, and pipe threaders.
It’s portable size can fit onto utility carts and scissor lifts, and allows it to be carried into confined spaces.
Each table in the group assembly area were equipped with Carry-on power stations, and media attendees made use of their USB charging ports in short order.
The Milwaukee M18 Carry-on can deliver longer sustained peak power through the most aggressive applications, such as table saws, and pipe threading.
As it’s powered by M18 batteries, the Carry-on does not generate any gas generator fumes, and can be used indoors. The Carry-on is also much quieter.
The Carry-on weighs 28 pounds without batteries.
The device is turned on with a single button, and has a 4-LED indicator fuel gauge.
A padlock can be used with adjustable lockbars to prevent unauthorized removal of the batteries.
D-rings on both sides can be used with a shoulder strap (49-16-2845, available separately).
I picked up the M18 Carry-on to get a feel for the weight. It’s not light, but it has a compact footprint and portable feel.
During the Q&A session at the end of the day, the Carry-on power stations’ fans were activating for short periods of time. They were audible, but not offensively so. Milwaukee says the noise level is rated at 66dB(a).
Milwaukee also designed the M18 Carry-on as a battery charger that’s capable of recharging all 4 attached batteries simultaneously. Its charging rate is 3A. You’ll need an appropriately-rated standard 3-prong extension cord for charging.
You can only charge the device when it is in not in discharge mode. In other words, you can charge the batteries or use the batteries to provide an AC output, but you can do both at the same time.
Is this the Milwaukee M18 power supply you have been waiting for?
Price: $699 (tool-only)
ETA: August 2022
First Impressions
I’m very optimistic. Milwaukee cordless power tool users have been asking for a power supply like this for quite a few years, and I don’t think the M18 Carry-on will disappoint.
Obviously, you’ll want to use this with higher capacity batteries, but it will work with any M18 Li-ion batteries.
Pros
- Compact and convenient size
- 1800W output, 3600W peak
- 2x outlets
- USB-PD and USB-A charging ports
- Lockbars for safeguarding batteries
- Clear controls – pushbutton operation and fuel gauge
- Sturdy-feeling construction
- Roll-cage to protect batteries
- Pure sine wave output
- Works with standard 3-prong extension cords
- Works with any M18 batteries
Cons
- Cannot charge batteries and power tools at the same time
- A bit heavier than I anticipated
- No IP dust or water resistance rating
- No Packout connectivity (yet?)
As was true for past media events, Milwaukee Tool covered attendees’ airfare, hotel accommodations, and meals.
