Cordless or battery-powered tools give you autonomy and freedom of movement. However, when buying, we often have doubts about whether they will be powerful enough or how long the battery will last. This practical guide will reveal everything you should know before buying battery tools.
at the time of choose between battery and corded tools we should not only look at whether we are going to work near a power outlet. New technological innovations in cordless tools have made some larger tools almost as powerful as their corded version. For this reason, they have become an option to take into account when buying a tool for your DIY work.
Advantages and disadvantages of battery tools
Although it is quite intuitive, it is worth reviewing the advantages and disadvantages of battery toolsyou may discover something new.
Advantage
- One of the drawbacks of corded tools is the possibility of the cord being damaged. In fact, it is quite common for it to be damaged by misuse, such as pulling on it when unplugging it. With cordless tools we won’t have that problem.
- Being cordless offers greater flexibility and portability, especially when working outdoors or on site.
- They allow you to maneuver and move freely in tight spaces, avoiding tripping or getting entangled with a cable (something in which I am an expert).
- Today, almost all power tools have a lithium-ion battery. These batteries last longer and their charge does not decrease when the tool is not in use.
- Some cordless tools come in kits that provide multiple tools with one or two batteries at a better price than buying them separately.
- They are usually easier to store than corded tools.
drawbacks
- Even the most powerful battery will be discharged and, without a doubt, it will be at the most inopportune moment. In addition, the performance of the tool will decrease as the battery becomes depleted.
- The fact of having to wait for it to recharge can cause you to lose time when carrying out a DIY project. To avoid this inconvenience, you must have at least one extra battery.
- The battery adds extra weight and bulk to the tool. Although lithium-ion batteries are generally lighter, keep in mind that the more power it has, the more it will weigh.
- A cordless tool offers less torque than the same corded tool. This means that some tools that require a lot of torque to do certain DIY jobs may fall short in their cordless version.
Are all cordless tools the same?
The power of a cordless tool is determined by the voltage stored in its battery. The lower it is, the less powerful it will be, although it is also true that the price will increase.
Currently, several brands have developed a system that allows the same battery to be used for different tools. In this way, by making the initial investment in the battery and universal charger, you save costs when buying several compatible tools.
In the following video you can see the advantages and disadvantages of this type of system, from my point of view and personal experience.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcLhv9933Vc
What kind of cordless tool to buy
As a general rule, it is convenient to choose the wired version of the tools that need a lot of power for an extended period of time. For example, with circular saws it all comes down to power and capacity, especially when cutting thick wood boards. Also, a cordless circular saw has a smaller blade than a corded saw.
Likewise, jigsaws, oscillating saws, and saber saws all offer better corded performance than their cordless version.
On the other hand, both drills and impact drivers are excellent cordless tools because they need the power in a blunt manner. However, if you’re looking for a battery-powered hammer drill that doesn’t fall short, I recommend you go for it with technology. brushless or brushless.
Another good option is nailers, rotary tools and cordless sanders, although in the case of the latter it is convenient to choose a battery with enough power and long life.
Have you ever hesitated between choose battery-powered or corded tools? If so, I hope that this practical guide has been useful to you and has managed to clear your doubts.
You can find more guides and inspiration for your DIY projects at
