Which brand to start a cordless tool set?

[SteveL]

i know there are going to be a number of brand loyal responses but since I'm starting from scratch I want to make sure that I get off on the right foot. The only cordless tools currently owned is an older 14v Makita 3 piece set that is no longer supported for batteries. I like them a lot but they are getting tired and I need to add a recipricatng saw and eventually would like to add some other tools. These will not be used a lot so the batteries tend to sit for long periods of time between use.

Also not looking to spend a fortune but willing to pay for decent quality and warranty. Obviously there are a lot to choose from so I'm looking for some guidance from someone that has recently gone through this decision process. Open to almost anything from Ryobi to Dewalt and anywhere in between. Just want o make sure that whatever I choose isn't obsolete in a couple of years.

 

[Mohawk Dave]

if you do metal, Milwaukee

 

[vga]

my choice, DeWalt.

 

[d.mcfarland]

Milwaukee at this point is the leader. Doesn't mean the others aren't good.

 

[SteveL]

Actually don't do a lot with metal. Mostly wood, general construction and occasional aluminum.

 

[camd64]

I picked up a Makita XT505 set a few months ago for under $300 shipped and have been very happy with it. It isn't a brushless setup but for how much I use it has been perfect and the battery life has been great. Not to mention Makita has a ton of tools to choose from. I don't see them changing their lineup anytime soon.

 

[American Locomotive]

Just pick your favorite color. Teal, Red or Yellow. You'll get people that say Milwaukee, DeWalt or Makita is the best.

They're all solid choices.

 

[btdobie]

Go on YouTube and look up a channel called AvE. He does tear down reviews of all sorts of tools they are both informative and entertaining. The guy who does them is also very knowledgeable. Look into the archives; about 2 months ago he did the batteries for Makita, DeWalt, and Milwaukee.

I will also add that I am a Makita user and I really like them, but I'm sure you'll be happy with any of the major brands. So, don't beat yourself up to bad over this decision.

 

[d.mcfarland]

Since your criteria is batteries mainly, don't forget to check out Ridgid and their lifetime battery agreement.

 

[FigureItOut]

Ryobi has by far the longest span of battery compatibility, and likely will stick to that in the future. I don't use them, but by nearly every account they are perfectly adequate for all but professional daily use. The newer reciprocating saw is supposed to be quite good, and they have a pretty wide lineup.

 

[JRC3]

My father bought me some Ryobi 18v 4mah batteries (on sale 2/$100), a leaf blower, and hedge trimmers. Because of that I had the extra large batteries so I decided to pick up a Ryobi set as a backup to my regular tools and I think they are pretty solid for half the money.

 

[54FordPanel]

Since your criteria is batteries mainly, don't forget to check out Ridgid and their lifetime battery agreement.

Absolutely. Getting new batteries for bad ones a few years down the road is a big consideration.

 

[bushmechanic]

It would help to know if you're a fan of woodwork, metalwork, a professional in some assembly or construction field; or simply someone who finds themselves drilling into walls and cars.

Some of the best stuff out there isn't always ideal in certain environments.

I love my Bosch stuff (first "Brute" design from quite a while back at this point), as an example; but it's annoying as hell when building computers. That said, the ergonomics are wonderful for framing projects.

Shame I haven't framed anything in years. I've just been waiting for the batteries to go.

They finally did.

 

[DonkeyFluffer]

I have maybe 25 Ryobi 18V One+ tools and 8 Milwaukee M12 or M18 tools. With the exception of the Ryobi finish nailers, I'd say the Milwaukees are better all around. But I doubt most projects the average homeowner does will require that much refinement. With 1/2 to 2/3 the price of Milwaukee, an excellent range of choices to include yard tools, a commitment to support this battery platform, and their recent introductions of brushless choices, I'd say the Ryobi is something that would fit your needs well.

I do agree that Milwaukee metal tools and their fantastic line of impact wrenches and cordless ratchets are the way to go for work requiring those kind of tools.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

 

[lightning02]

i wouldn't use Ridgids lifetime battery agreement ******** as a deciding factor. it doesn't always workout for people. its hit or miss. i was in your shoes awhile back and really looked into them and for every one good story there is just as many bad ones when it comes to there lifetime battery.

with that said i was picking between dewalt and Milwaukees. i ended up going with Milwaukee's bc of there M12 line since that's what i use mostly. i didn't need the bigger stuff at the moment. so maybe you should think what power line of tools you will need more then which brand. iv been VERY happy with the m12 stuff so far. only dislikes is i think there m12 batteries are a bit over priced.

next year ill be in the market for the bigger voltage stuff.

 

[fordgasm]

Milwaukee at this point is the leader. Doesn't mean the others aren't good.

what he said.

I use Milwaukee FWIW.

 

[anndel]

Bosch, DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Rigid, Hitachi....all good. If looking for less expensive options, Ryobi and Porter Cable are decent.

 

[Jim Diesel]

Milwaukee. Only cause I own them and they have looked after me without any problems what's so ever.

 

[SteveL]

Had not really thought about the voltage options as I've always thought that bigger was better. But with the limited use mine will get, maybe 12v or 14v might be a better option as they are lighter and more compact. I do however like the idea of the 18v Ryobi being able to cross over to garden/yard tools. Hmmmmm, will need to go and look at each line in person to see which offer the best ergonomics and tool variety.

 

[Jazz1]

My Hitachi set is 10 years old. Batteries require charging more often now. Hitachi offered a 10 year warranty on batteries when I purchased

 

[DFB]

If a person needs general complement of cordless power tools for casual use I would consider an 18V combo package from Porter Cable or Ryobi. You would have the basic tools for most projects you probably get into. And could probably get 4 or 5 tools for price of maybe just 2 somewhere else.

Otherwise if your willing to build on more expensive brand of tools look at what is is available from each manufacturer in the different lines that they offer that you think you might eventually want.

12 volt tools are usually less expensive than their 18v counterparts and can be completely satisfactory depending on the job but some brands have a limited amount of choices but usually all the basics drill, hex screwdriver, impact driver, recip saw. light, radio. Others like Milwaukee for an example is seriously extensive.


As for the lithium ion batteries they hold up much better than earlier types and some brands have been retrofitting new batteries to use with older tools. And because advancements have come on at astounding rates there has been scenarios where certain manufactures have not supported some of their lines in the past but IMO I really cant see any of the big names walking away from the current products anytime soon though.

Oh man that would be such a bad business move

Certain brands seem to have more promotional buys than others, and most especially around the Holidays

 

[buckwheat_la]

Just pick your favorite color. Teal, Red or Yellow. You'll get people that say Milwaukee, DeWalt or Makita is the best.

They're all solid choices.

Agreed. So little between these that any is a good choice. Please stay away from Rigid. I can't even begin to tell you how difficult and useless the warrantee is....

 

[crewchief888]

i would be asking myself,
"what cordless tools do i need now, and what do i want to add on in the future" ?

then scope out the brand.

seems like a lot of the manufacturers have added tools in the last 2 or 3 years that were available only from a couple brands before.

i've had CM, ryobi, bluepoint, ridgid and milwaukee.

right now i'm in the milwaukee crowd. they've been abused more, and zero battery issues in 3 years.

 

[Voi]

I do however like the idea of the 18v Ryobi being able to cross over to garden/yard tools. Hmmmmm, will need to go and look at each line in person to see which offer the best ergonomics and tool variety.

I think Ryobi has a large selection of cordless yard tools but don't believe their 40V battery can work in their 18V tools like the Dewalt Flexvolt system. [EDIT] This thread got me poking around online and I don't believe all of Dewalt's yard tools are Flexvolt compatible.

You might also look at Makita. They have 36V yard tools that use two of their 18V batteries working in series. Their 36V X2 mower that's been in Europe for a while will supposedly be available in the US soon. I think being able to use the same batteries for both types of tools would be convenient. I also think Makita has the same yard tool options as Ryobi other than the snow blower.

If you do a lot of limb clean up like me I find compact, single-handed reciprocating saws very useful. I currently use my under-powered Bosch 12V but would love to have the M18 Fuel Hackzall.

Besides checking for ergonomics I think you really need to look online to see just how extensive each company's offerings are.

 

[TangoFoxTrot]

I started with the 18v DeWalt line and will probably stick with them even though they are now considered outdated.

If I was starting new from scratch, I would probably go with Milwaukee.

I would avoid Ryobi, I had a Lithium drill that's now basically a paperweight despite very little use.

One cordless tool I use more than any though is Bosch's small impact driver. Just an incredibly handy tool for so many tasks.

 

[Aqua-Andy]

Purchase whatever brand you like, cordless tools are not a long term commitment. I have trashed probably seven or more cordless sets over the years vs I still have almost every corded or air tool I have ever purchased.

 

[TNBurban]

Whatever 18v set you get I would suggest a 12v drill and impact driver set for general use. Makita, Milwaukee, Bosch, Dewalt, Ridgid. The 12v is much lighter and great for quick tasks, and easy to store one somewhere convenient. I have a full Bosch 18v set but use the 12v impact driver and drill for 90% of the tasks a drill or impact driver is needed.

 

[krcoomer]

If a person needs general complement of cordless power tools for casual use I would consider an 18V combo package from Porter Cable or Ryobi. You would have the basic tools for most projects you probably get into. And could probably get 4 or 5 tools for price of maybe just 2 somewhere else.



Otherwise if your willing to build on more expensive brand of tools look at what is is available from each manufacturer in the different lines that they offer that you think you might eventually want.



12 volt tools are usually less expensive than their 18v counterparts and can be completely satisfactory depending on the job but some brands have a limited amount of choices but usually all the basics drill, hex screwdriver, impact driver, recip saw. light, radio. Others like Milwaukee for an example is seriously extensive.





As for the lithium ion batteries they hold up much better than earlier types and some brands have been retrofitting new batteries to use with older tools. And because advancements have come on at astounding rates there has been scenarios where certain manufactures have not supported some of their lines in the past but IMO I really cant see any of the big names walking away from the current products anytime soon though.



Oh man that would be such a bad business move



Certain brands seem to have more promotional buys than others, and most especially around the Holidays

I have been satisfied with the Porter Cable 18 volt collection I started about 6 years ago. Am needing to replace batteries and now see more 20 volt tools than 18. I believe I would go with 20 instead of 18 volt since it seems to be the way of the future


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[ChrisLS8]

For home to light professional use I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Ridgid or Ryobi.

Both have extensive lineups (Ridgid oil impact is the best I've ever used), backwards battery compatibility and good warranty, especially Ridgids lifetime warranty. Some say it's hit or miss but I would be willing to bet they either didn't register properly or forgot to update the registration for the new tool/battery

 

[Aqua-Andy]

I believe I would go with 20 instead of 18 volt since it seems to be the way of the future


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They are the same thing. It's just one manufacturer lists the max charged voltage vs the nominal voltage of the cells. I get a kick out of online tool reviews that will state that one tool has a slight advantage because it is 20v instead of 18v. If they don't know this piece of information how can I believe any other information they spew forth.

 

[Git]

You need to look at the 'big picture' - because you will be committing to a battery system and it helps to see all the tools that are available

For example, I was a long time Bosch user but recently switched to Makita because of problems with the old Bosch Batteries.

What swayed me to Makita was some of their 'non-traditional' type tools. I have their hedge trimmer and I actually have two of the floor blowers (wife snagged my first one)

When it is time for a new impact driver - plan on purchasing their one that uses "oil impulse" technology

take a look:
https://www.makitatools.com/products/tools/cordless#f:18v

 

[cvcman]

i know there are going to be a number of brand loyal responses but since I'm starting from scratch I want to make sure that I get off on the right foot. The only cordless tools currently owned is an older 14v Makita 3 piece set that is no longer supported for batteries. I like them a lot but they are getting tired and I need to add a recipricatng saw and eventually would like to add some other tools. These will not be used a lot so the batteries tend to sit for long periods of time between use.

Also not looking to spend a fortune but willing to pay for decent quality and warranty. Obviously there are a lot to choose from so I'm looking for some guidance from someone that has recently gone through this decision process. Open to almost anything from Ryobi to Dewalt and anywhere in between. Just want o make sure that whatever I choose isn't obsolete in a couple of years.

Ive used and owned most all of them,,,I abuse them and the one tha I like the best is,,,Ridgid....18volt,,,I have the drills, sazall,,,,they are ricken POWERFULL...ill put them up against the DeWalt anyday !

 

[DFB]

I have been satisfied with the Porter Cable 18 volt collection I started about 6 years ago. Am needing to replace batteries and now see more 20 volt tools than 18. I believe I would go with 20 instead of 18 volt since it seems to be the way of the future


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Yea thanks for pointing that out Porter Cable just like Dewalt has both an older 18V tool line and the newer 20v MAX tools

So the newer Max line batteries aren't directly interchangeable with older 18V tools that is correct right but that Dewalt sells an adapter. I know Milwaukee had some early 18V Li-on tools that also aren't interchangeable with the latest Red Lithiums

Good to know things like this One time I come across what I first thought was a great deal and almost bought a new never used Milwaukee V18 circular saw at a flea mkt before I realized it wasn't compatible with the later battery and tools I already had. Just by looking at the saw there wasn't much noticeable difference in the earlier tool except for the battery 's connection slots

 

[jd_1138]

Really can't go wrong with Ryobi, Ridgid, Makita, Milwaukee, DeWalt. They all have all the basics covered well -- impact driver, impact wrench, drill, circular saw, reciprocating saw.

Makita right now has a special buy at the local Home Depot (maybe nationwide?). It's $59 (usually $99) and you get an impact driver, a 3.0 amp lithium battery, charger, and a hard case. Then you'd be in the teal blue crowd.

It says the "largest 18v lineup". I wonder if that's because DeWalt calls itself 20v? DeWalt is also a good option. It's the only brand made by an actual USA based co. with manufacturing here in the USA. That's what put me in the yellow camp. All things being nearly equal, the COO pushed me to DeWalt. Plus my pro carpenter cousin uses DeWalt, so I got to use some of his tools a couple years ago before buying my own.

 

[SantaAna12]

I have yellow, but what I wanted to say was my old Makita would not die either. I ended up giving it away! Your lack of batteries.....Man....Old Makitas. Respect.
Good luck on your new setup.

 

[jd_1138]

What swayed me to Makita was some of their 'non-traditional' type tools. I have their hedge trimmer and I actually have two of the floor blowers (wife snagged my first one)

At HD yesterday in the clearance section, they had a Makita 18V cordless blower marked down to $39 (from $99). Have the blower? Is it good?

 

[mtnkid85]

Makita is committed to there batteries, they've been using the same style for longer than anyone I think and they have a bus load of tools to choose from that are all powered by the same batteries.

The 36v tools seem to be getting a lot of development attention lately and It seems like they are killing it with them too. (Chain saw, blower, weed eater, 7 1/4" saw etc).

Makita is also working on the 18v subcompact line, which I am real excited about. Tools the size of the other companies 10.8vs that wil stilll run on all your other 18v batteries.

My vote is Makita

 

[jd_1138]

Makita even has a coffee maker. This would be cool for tradesmen or Amish carpenters working at houses without power. Have a fresh pot of coffee for breakfast and one for lunch with their sandwiches.

The carpenter I hired to help me at my mom's new house had the full Makita lineup. No coffee maker, but he did have the Makita radio boombox, table saw, and about 10 other tools.

 

[Git]

At HD yesterday in the clearance section, they had a Makita 18V cordless blower marked down to $39 (from $99). Have the blower? Is it good?

If it is this one - we have two of them. Really comes in handy out in the garage for blowing off sawdust, blowing off my motorcycle after washing it, etc. (Used to use my compressor - but this is easier) Wife uses hers to blow off the outdoor furniture and other things. They also make a longer nozzle for it

( Milwaukee has a similar version)

 

[krcoomer]

They are the same thing. It's just one manufacturer lists the max charged voltage vs the nominal voltage of the cells. I get a kick out of online tool reviews that will state that one tool has a slight advantage because it is 20v instead of 18v. If they don't know this piece of information how can I believe any other information they spew forth.

I agree about the negligible difference in function. I was referencing availability at Lowes for add ons of Porter Cable. The Lowes I was in yesterday did not have any 18V tools on the shelf, only 20V. Are you saying the battery is interchangeable, because I would much rather have a 5th or 6th drill on the shelf and still be able to run my other 18V tools for about the same price as 2 more batteries off Amazon.