Power tool batteries and chargers replace or top up the power supply of cordless drills, drivers, saws and similar tools. They suit DIY users, tradespeople and hobbyists who want to keep tools running or charge rechargeable cells. The range is small and focused, with DEWALT, XTAR and EINHELL as the brands.
How to choose power tool batteries and chargers
Match the platform. Cordless tool batteries are built around a manufacturer's own system, so the battery must fit the tool's connector as well as its voltage. Check the name of the battery line printed on your current battery or in the tool manual before ordering.
Check the voltage. Common cordless tool systems run at 18V, and some professional lines go higher. A battery with the wrong voltage will not work properly and can damage the tool, so the voltage on the label should match the tool exactly, unless the maker states that the battery is designed to switch between voltages.
Compare capacity in Ah. Amp-hours show how much energy the battery stores. A 2Ah battery is lighter and quicker to charge, which suits short jobs and overhead work. A 5Ah battery or larger runs longer between charges, which helps with sanding, cutting or drilling all day, but it weighs more in the hand.
Choose the right charger. A charger must be made for the same battery system and chemistry. Faster chargers save time on site, while a standard charger is fine if you charge overnight. Some chargers, such as those made for individual lithium-ion cells, are meant for standalone cells rather than tool battery packs, so read what the charger is designed to accept.
Buy a spare when work cannot stop. If you use a tool for long periods, a second battery lets you charge one while you work with the other. Two batteries of the same capacity also wear more evenly.
Brands we carry
- DEWALT: known for its professional cordless range, including FLEXVOLT batteries that work across both 18V and 54V tools.
- XTAR: known for chargers for individual lithium-ion cells, such as 18650 and 21700 sizes, often with displays that show charging progress.
- EINHELL: known for the Power X-Change system, where one 18V battery fits many tools across its home and garden range.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use any battery with my cordless drill?
No, you should use a battery designed for your drill's system. Most manufacturers use their own connector and electronics, so a battery from another brand usually will not fit or work safely. Check the model name and voltage on your tool before buying.
What does Ah mean on a power tool battery?
Ah stands for amp-hours and describes the battery's capacity. A higher figure means a longer runtime between charges at the same voltage. Higher-capacity batteries are usually heavier and take longer to charge.
Can a DEWALT battery be used on an EINHELL tool?
Generally no. DEWALT and EINHELL each use their own battery system with different connectors, so the batteries are not interchangeable. Buy the battery and charger from the same system as the tool you want to power.
How do I know which charger fits my battery?
Look at the label on the battery for the brand, system name and voltage, then pick a charger made for that same system. Using the charger supplied for that battery line is the safest route. If you are charging loose lithium-ion cells instead, choose a cell charger that supports the cell size and chemistry you use.
