Cordless battery platforms explained
Buying cordless tools is really buying into a battery platform: one brand's batteries and chargers that fit all its tools in that range. Choose well and every future tool can be bought "body only", saving a lot of money.
The basics
- Batteries don't swap between brands. A Makita battery won't fit a DeWalt tool, and vice versa.
- Volts (V) is power. Most trade tools are 18V, with 12V for compact tools and higher-voltage ranges for heavy kit.
- Amp-hours (Ah) is runtime. A 5.0Ah battery runs roughly two and a half times longer than a 2.0Ah, but is heavier.
How to choose a platform
- What do you already own? If you have batteries, stick with that brand unless there's a good reason not to.
- What tools will you need later? Check the brand makes the specialist tools your trade uses (e.g. SDS drills, multi-tools, nailers, garden tools).
- What do people on site use? Sharing batteries and chargers with workmates is handy.
- Budget. Trade-focused platforms cost more. DIY-focused ranges are cheaper and have huge tool ranges for home use.
Saving money on batteries
- Twin packs are usually cheaper per battery than singles.
- "Kit" bundles sometimes cost little more than the batteries alone, so you get the tool almost free.
- Be very careful with cheap "compatible" batteries. Genuine cells are safer and last longer. Our bot skips no-name copies.
Our advice is based on product specifications, prices and common trade use. We don't do hands-on product testing.
