For homeowners and handymen who clear small drains often and want a machine that lasts. It costs more than the clones but is built and backed for years of use.
Amazon $629The Ridgid K-400 Drum Machine is the better drain cleaning machine overall, rated 3.8 to 3.7. The Ridgid K-400 Drum Machine leads on features. The Ridgid K-400 Drum Machine costs $70 less ($629 vs $699).
For a Milwaukee M18 owner who wants a cordless small line machine. It skips the extension cord but costs more than corded drum machines of the same size.
Acme Tools $699Prices were last checked November 3, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Ridgid K-400 Drum Machine for features (foot switch, reverse, cutters included vs foot switch, cutters included).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every small lines drain cleaning machine; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Ridgid K-400 Drum Machine | Milwaukee M18 Drum Machine 2817A-21 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.8/5 | 3.7/5 |
| Price 25% | 49 $629 | 43 $699 |
| Cable 25% | 70 75 ft of 3/8 in cable | 70 75 ft of 3/8 in cable |
| Motor 10% | 31 249 W motor | 50 motor power not published (neutral score used) |
| Features 20% | 65 foot switch, reverse, cutters included | 45 foot switch, cutters included |
| Warranty 20% | 100 lifetime warranty | 100 5-year warranty |
Specifications
| Ridgid K-400 Drum Machine | Milwaukee M18 Drum Machine 2817A-21 | |
|---|---|---|
| Cable | ||
| Type | Drum machine | Drum machine |
| Included cable | 75 ft x 3/8 in | 75 ft x 3/8 in |
| Drain sizes | 1.5 to 3 in | 1.5 to 3 in |
| Cutters included | 4 | 5 |
| Motor | ||
| Motor | 249 W | - |
| Horsepower | 0.3 hp | - |
| Speed | 170 rpm | - |
| Voltage | 115 V | 18 V |
| Cordless | - | Yes |
| Controls and build | ||
| Auto feed | No | No |
| Foot switch | Yes | Yes |
| Reverse | Yes | - |
| Weight | 45 lb | - |
| Warranty | Lifetime | 5 years |
