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.

Skil Power Tools Skil Power Tools 18v Cordless Drill 2888-03 $104.32 18v cordless drill 18V 2-speed cordless drill/driver Powerful 2-speed gearbox for high speed drilling and high torque applications 25 + 1 clutch settings matches driving power to your specific applications and prevents screw stripping Variable speed trigger lets you control your drilling speed when precision matters most 1/2? keyless chuck will accept a wide variety of bits and accessories Includes: 2 batteries, charger, double ended bit, and carrying case Brand #: Skil Power Tools 2888-03 UPC: 039725034267 Keywords: drill cordless 18v

Skil Power Tools Skil Power Tools 18v Cordless Drill 2260-01 $60.45 18v cordless drill 18V 16 clutch settins matches the driving power to your specific applications and prevents screw stripping Variable speed trigger lets you control your drilling speed when precision matters most 3/8? keyless chuck for fast and easy bit changes On-tool bit storage allows you to conveniently access bits Compact and lightweight for less user fatigue Soft-grip handle for user comfort and control Includes 1 battery, charger, double-ended bit, and carrying case Brand #: Skil Power Tools 2260-01 UPC: 039725034328 Keywords: cordless drill 18v

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Makita Power Tools MAK6933FDX2 14.4V Automotive Cordless Combo Kit $445.75 Includes: 6280DZ drill driver kit. 0350 01 200RPM 1 240inlbs. (103.3 ftlbs.) torque. 16 torque settings. 6933FDZ 14.4V 3/8 drive cordless impact featuring a built in LED light and 103ft.lbs of torque. Two 14.4V NiCd Batteries. ML140Flashlight. ML143 Florescent Work Light. Comes with a durable nylon kit storage bag.

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Hitachi Power Tools Hitachi Power Tools 12v Ni-cd Battery 324360 $41.03 12v ni-cd battery The model No. 324360 Hitachi EB1214S flat body is a 12V 1.4Ah NiCd battery for use with Hitachi 12V tools Brand #: Hitachi Power Tools 324360 UPC: 719592616574 Keywords: battery 12v ni cd cordless tool

Hitachi Power Tools Hitachi Power Tools 14.4v Ni-cd Battery 324367 $47.98 14.4v ni-cd battery The model No. 324367 Hitachi EB1414S is a 14.4V 1.4Ah NiCd battery for use in Hitachi 14.4 tools Brand #: Hitachi Power Tools 324367 UPC: 719592613863 Keywords: battery 14.4v ni cd cordless drill

Dewalt Power Tools 18 Volt Cordless Drill Driver Kit DC720KA $314.11 Compact size allows users to fit into tight spaces. Lightweight design minimizes user fatigue. Single sleeve ratcheting chuck reduces bit slippage. High performance frameless motor delivers maximum power. LED work light provides increased visibility in confined spaces. Includes 1 hour charger two 18 volt batteries screwdriver bit and heavyduty kit box. 2 speed settings. 18 volt. 1 700 maximum rpm. Length: 14.75. Width: 13.5. Height: 4.7

Dewalt Power Tools 12 Volt Cordless Drill Driver Kit DC742KA $229.32 Compact size allows users to fit into tight spaces. Lightweight design minimizes user fatigue. Single sleeve ratcheting chuck reduces bit slippage. High performance frameless motor delivers maximum power. LED work light provides increased visibility in confined spaces. Includes 1 hour charger two 12 volt batteries screwdriver bit and heavyduty kit box. 12 volt. 1 450 maximum rpm. 17 clutch settings. Length: 14.75. Width: 13.5. Height: 4.7

Hitachi Power Tools 18 Volt Cordless Driver Drill DS18DVF3 $255.89 Maximum tightening torque 45 Nm 400 inch per pound.50 keyless chuck. Fancooled motor for high power and improved durability. Electric feedback and brake for performing effective work. 22stage torque adjustable clutch. Two speed transmission with onetouch speed knob. Push button type reversing switch. Softgrip handle. Convenient 5position belt hook with integrated bit holder. Length: 23. Width: 18. Height: 5

DeWalt® - Cordless Impact Wrenches $529 Power tools with comfort grip. DeWalt® cordless impact wrenches has grip that provides maximum comfort. Sold individually in standard packs. Runs on 18.00V power source. Driven by heavy-duty impacting mechanism that directs torque to fastener without kickback. Includes durable magnesium gear case and all metal transmission for extra durability. Power tools have preferred rocker switch design for fast and easy fastening.

Makita Power Tools MAK6347DWDE 18V.5Cordless DriverDrill Kit $361.04 Twopiece D31 motor delivers power efficiency and serviceability in a more compact size. Dual ball bearings precision balancing and a refined highgrade field magnet guarantees maximum performance. All Metal Gear Transmission (0400 / 01 300 RPM) features a rugged 3stage 13planetary gear system providing smooth efficient power for the most demanding applications and extended durability. Exclusive Shift Lock Drive enables onetouch quick shifting from drill to driver mode for increased operator efficiency. The Shift Lock Drive System locks out the clutch for superior drilling. 2.6 Ah NiMH Batteries for greater capacity and longer run time no memory effect and environmentally friendly NiMH Batteries provide unmatched performance. Locking/racheting chuck for secure tightening of bits and unmatched grip strength. Large spindle bearing ensures positive oncenter drilling performance. Variable speed trigger for precise operator control. Ergonomically designed rubberized grip enhances comfort and increases operator control. Externally accessible brushes for serviceablility and longer tool life.? Includes (2) 18V NiMH Batteries MultiVoltage Charger amp; Case .Kit includes:. 2 ea. Battery 1834. MultiVoltage Charger. Phillips/Slotted Bit. Keyless Chuck. Battery Cover. Plastic Tool Case

Black Decker Power Tools 14.4V Cordless Dustbuster Cyclonic HandVac CHV1410 $58.9 Dustbuster. Cyclonic action with powerful spinning action keeps dust and debris away from the filter so suction power stays strong. AccuReach Eozzle extends for reach in tight spaces. Filter refresh dial clears debris from filter to improve suction. 3 stage filtration prevents dust from escaping into the air. Use for large and small messes around the home inside vehicles stairs furniture floors and counter tops. Wall mountable charging base. Includes handheld vacuum AccuReach extension nozzle crevice tool upholstery brush washable filter and plastic prefilter. 27 watts. Length: 17. Width: 7. Height: 4.88

Milwaukee® Electric Tools - Power-Plus Chargers $83.7 Energy-saving cordless tool batteries & chargers. Milwaukee® cordless tool batteries & chargers charge all Milwaukee® Power Plus batteries Equipped with 12-volt battery charging capacity Categorized as non-standard size battery charger Does not contain hazardous materials

Makita Power Tools MAKBTW450 18V LXT LithiumIon.5Cordless Impact Wrench $619.5 LXT LithiumIon battery optimum charging system produces 430 total lifetime work with 2x more cycles. Makita built motor delivers 325 ft. lbs. of torque in a compact size. Motor provides 1 600 RPM and 2 200 IPM for added muscle for tough jobs. More compact design at only 10 1/2 long and weighs only 7.5 lbs. for less operator fatigue. Large rocker switch for easier tool usage. Single L.E.D. light for increased job site visibility. Job site tested shock absorbent handle protects the battery housing for extra durability. Large tool hook ensures a secure clip when tool is not in use. Makita LithiumIon provides longer run time 5x lower selfdischarge (for use any time) amp; 16 firm holding contact terminals (for constant high power). 30Minute Rapid Optimum Charger communicates with the battery s builtin chip throughout the charging process to optimize battery life by actively controlling current voltage and temperature. 30Minute Rapid Optimum Charger has a builtin fan to cool the battery to produce more lifetime work. Soft grip handle provides increased work comfort on the job. 3year warranty on tool and 1year warranty on battery and charger Includes:. Tool hook and screw. Contractor Bag. 2 LithiumIon 3.0Ah batteries. 1 Rapid Optimum Battery Charger. Plastic battery cover

TopCell MX9630 Batteries Cordless Power Tool Battery for MAX 9.6V 3.0Ah NiCd $97.5 Designed to fit these MAX+ Cordless Power Tools: MAXJP509H. 9.6V 3.0 Ah NiCd. Satisfaction ensured. Manufactured to the highest quality available.

Makita Power Tools 18 Volt Compact LithiumIon Cordless Impact Driver Kit BTD14 $380.69 Cordless driver drill kit. Conveniently located forward and reverse switch for one handed operation. Compact tool body and lightweight design provide optimum balance and comfort. Ergonomic shape fits like a glove with even pressure and easy control. High power to weight ratio for efficient drilling. Ergonomically developed rubberized pistol grip for complete comfort and control. Includes compact LithiumIon batteries 15minute Rapid Charger and tool case. 18 volt.25 capacity. Length: 16. Width: 12.7. Height: 5.75

I Zoom Cordless 20 LED Power Light Tools Solutions $9.98 Add some light where you need it!The i Zoom FL2010 from Tool Solutions is a portable light with twenty bright white LEDs. The FL2010 features a pop up hook and a rubberized handle giving you options for using it as a hands free or personal spot light. It also features 180 tilt to aim those photons right where you need them. It s powered by three D batteries so you can place it anywhere you need light! Get yours today!Order now! Tool Solutions i Zoom FL2010 20 White LED Light General Features: Black silver color Twenty (20) white LED lights 100 000 hour rating 180 tilting neck Rubberized grip for spotlight use Pop up hanging hook Powered by three (3) D batteries Unit Dimensions: 10 x 4.5 x 4.5 inches (H x W x D) Weight: 1 lb. 4 oz w batteries

Makita Power Tools MAK6261DWPLE 9.6V .38Cordless DriverDrill Flashlight Kit $186.91 Makitabuilt motor delivers 200 in.lbs of torque. 2speed design (0400 / 01 300 RPM) covers a wide range of drilling and driving applications. 3/8 Keyless chuck for fast and easy bit changes. 16 torque settings plus drill mode for optimum torque control. Ergonomic shape fits like a glove with even pressure and easy control. Soft grip handle provides increased comfort on the job. ML903 Flashlight runs up to 2 hours per single charge. Includes: 2 ea. 9.6V NiCd Battery PA09 Universal Charger Plastic Tool Case and Flashlight. Capacity Steel: 3/8 . Wood: 13/16 . Battery (Ah):1.3 (NiCd). No Load RPM: Low: 0 400 High: 0 1 300. Length: 79/16 . Torque (in.lbs.): 200. Watt Hours:12.48. Net Weight (w/battery): 3.1 lbs.

Dewalt Power Tools 2 Gallon Cordless or Corded WetDry Vacuum DC500 $157.91 Runs off of 12 volt to 18 volt DeWalt battery packs or 120 volt AC. High efficiency filter traps 99.7 percent of drywall dust. Wet/dry filter eliminates change overs. Washable filtertap or water rinse to clean. Heavyduty rubber hose provides durability and flexibility. Drain port on tank for easy emptying of liquids. Onboard hose cord and accessory storage provides convenient transport and storage. Blower. Battery and charger sold separately. Length: 16. Width: 14.5. Height: 12.75

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