Cordless Power Tools

Corded Versus Cordless: The Benefits and Disadvantages of Corded and Cordless Power Tools

Innovations across the power tool industry have improved the durability, strength and maneuverability of both corded and cordless power tools. Cordless tools, it seems, are becoming vastly more popular as battery and motor technologies continue to improve. New developments like Lithium-Ion battery technology has upped the ante for cordless tools, but other innovations have certainly not left corded power tools in the dust. New advancements in corded power tool designs have made corded tools, once cumbersome and lumbering, lighter weight and far easier to handle. Corded power tools still offer unrivaled power and performance, and generally have a longer life-span; when picking a tool, however, it is still not an easy choice as cordless tools offer compact ergonomics and superior mobility.

It's important to consider a few things before deciding which tool best suits you and your needs. The type of job and intensity of applications, the materials you intend to manipulate, and how often you will use your power tools are all factors in choosing between corded and cordless tools.

"So, what are the benefits of cordless tools?" you ask. Well, I'll tell you. Cordless power tools allow craftsmen to take the tools to the job rather than bringing work back to your tools; bringing work back to the shop or a stable power source can be a frustrating chore if not wholly impossible. Cordless tools offer superior convenience and portability, and with greater advancements in battery technology and tool design, cordless tools now have more power, less weight, and a longer run-time than ever before. Another striking benefit of using cordless tools is, well, they're cordless! Lugging and dragging around heavy cords can not only be a hassle but a hazard as well. For this reason, cordless tools also tend to be easier to store and transport. Cordless tools are ideal for home use and for use in high-traffic areas where cords can present a bigger safety hazard. Additionally, cordless tools are absolutely essential when working in unfinished constructions where, perhaps, there is no electrical power source available. However, it's not all sunshine with cordless tools, although their convenience is unmatched, they can't offer the constant high power that corded tools can. Cordless tools are less powerful to begin with and most (excluding those using Lithium-Ion batteries) lose power continuously as you work. Unlike corded, cordless power tools have a limited power source and rely on a fully charged battery to efficiently run. Cordless tools also tend to be a bit heavier and batteries can be expensive to replace.

Intrigued, you now ask, "Ah, so what then are the advantages of using corded tools?" Let me tell you. Corded power tools offer significantly more power and a constant, non-dwindling power source for continuous run-time. Corded tools offer a wider variety for more diverse applications and deliver the highest-performance for the most heavy-duty jobs. Corded tools allow users to perform without stops ensuring projects are completed without the hassle of changing and charging batteries. Because of their superior power and nonstop performance, corded tools are ideal for heavier construction jobs. They also tend to be less expensive - and you'll never have to replace a pricey battery either. Cordless tools are a stronger, more durable tool and are essential where jobs require constant and superior power. Corded tools provide unmatched power and deliver the most professional results to even the heaviest, heartiest, beefiest applications. On the other hand, while corded tools don't require battery replacements, they do have that lumbering cord; that heavy, fraying cord requires replacement as often as a battery does. While cords are generally less expensive to replace, they are much more frustrating and time consuming. Power cords present more problems than simply fraying or failing altogether - cords are dangerous; they present a serious electrical hazard, and are fairly easy to trip over. Corded tools also have limited mobility, and as its generally recommended to avoid using extension cords (which present an additional safety hazard) corded tools shouldn't go too far from the power source they're drawing from.

When choosing a tool, it is crucial to consider the capacities of of both corded and cordless types. Each offers different advantages to suit different demands and applications. Know the type of jobs you expect to perform, the type of materials you'll be working with, and consider how often you'll be firing up your tools - knowing these three things should help you choose precisely which tool, corded or cordless, will be your best companion on the job.

About the Author

As a student at the Univ of Utah, Mallory Kramer is earning her degree in English. 3 years ago she joined M&M Tool adding to their over 150 years combined experience. She specializes in tool parts & web communications. For over 60 years M&M Tool has provided the best service to the tool industry with parts, sales, & service to expert woodworking products, tools & machinery. Visit M&M Tool's Forum for professional woodworking articles and advice.

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