When it comes to tackling dewatering tasks the Milwaukee Stick Transfer Pump stands out as top-tier solutions. The M18 and M12 Stick Transfer Pumps are both designed to provide powerful and efficient water transfer in various applications, but they cater to different needs. Whether you’re working in trenches, basements, or vaults, choosing the right pump depends on the specific requirements of your project. We’ll compare the Milwaukee M18 Brushless Stick Transfer Pump and the Milwaukee M12 Stick Transfer Pump to help you make an informed decision.

Milwaukee M18 Brushless Stick Transfer Pump:
The Milwaukee M18 Brushless Stick Transfer Pump (Bare Tool) is built for heavy-duty dewatering tasks. If you need a pump with high output and superior durability, the M18 model offers several key advantages. Model: 2940-20


Key Features of the M18 Transfer Pump:
- Flow Rate: The M18 pump boasts an impressive flow rate of up to 25 gallons per minute (GPM). This makes it ideal for larger jobs where faster water transfer is crucial.
- Battery Life: The M18 can pump up to 1,000 gallons on a single charge, offering extended run-time for demanding applications.
- Max Head Height: With a 17ft maximum head height, the M18 allows for greater water pumping distances, making it suitable for large construction projects or areas with elevation differences.
- Filter Technology: The M18 is equipped with HYDROPASS™ filter technology. Providing a 360° filter to maximize flow even when dealing with heavy debris, minimizing downtime caused by clogging.
- Reach and Versatility: The pump offers a 48″ submersible reach and is compatible with a 1-1/4″ discharge hose or up to two ¾” garden hoses via the included Y-adapter.

The M18 Stick Transfer Pump is designed for tough environments like trenches, utility pole holes, or large water removal jobs, where powerful and quick water transfer is essential.

Pros of the Milwaukee M18 Transfer Stick Pump:
- Higher flow rate (25 GPM)
- Longer battery life (up to 1,000 gallons per charge)
- Increased head height (17ft)
- More submersible reach (48 inches)
- Compatible with larger discharge hoses
Milwaukee M12 Stick Transfer Pump:
The Milwaukee M12 Stick Transfer Pump is a more compact and lighter option. Its ideal for smaller jobs or when portability is a priority. Despite its smaller size, it still offers impressive performance for specific applications. Model: 2579-20


Key Features of the M12 Transfer Pump:
- Flow Rate: Offers a 9 GPM flow rate which is effective for lighter dewatering tasks.
- Battery Life: The M12 can pump up to 275 gallons on a single charge, making it well-suited for smaller, less demanding projects.
- Max Head Height: The M12 pump offers a 15ft maximum head height, which is slightly lower than the M18 but still sufficient for most light-duty applications.
- Filter Technology: Like the M18, the M12 features HYDROPASS™ filter technology, providing a 360° filter to maintain consistent flow in areas with debris.
- Reach and Portability: The 36-inch submersible barrel offers a shorter reach, but its lighter weight (4.2 lbs) makes it more portable for quick jobs in smaller spaces like basements, catch basins, or water meter boxes.

The M12 Stick Transfer Pump excels in smaller-scale dewatering tasks, where portability and ease of use are more important than raw power.
Pros of the M12 Transfer Pump:
- Compact and lightweight (4.2 lbs)
- Lower flow rate (9 GPM) for smaller tasks
- More portable for tight spaces
- Ideal for catch basins, trenches, and small-scale pumping
- Easy one-handed operation

Choosing between the M18 and M12 Stick Transfer Pumps depends on the scale and nature of your projects. If you need a powerful pump for large-scale, heavy-duty dewatering tasks, the M18 Brushless Stick Transfer Pump is the better choice. This is due to its higher flow rate, longer battery life, and greater head height.

However, if portability and convenience are more important for smaller tasks, the M12 Stick Transfer Pump is an excellent option. It’s lightweight, easy to handle, and perfect for quick jobs in tight spaces like catch basins, water meter boxes, and trenches.
Are you on Dewalt’s cordless platform? See the Dewalt 20V Transfer Pump HERE





