Universal motors are typically found on drills, circular saws, pad sanders, belt sanders, jig saws, mitre saws, routers and wet/dry vacs. They have the advantage of being compact while being able to produce high speeds and offer a wide range of speed and power. They are however noisier than induction motors and their life is limited by the quality of their brushes.

A motor whose rotational speed is directly proportional to the average motor voltage.