Q: What are the best new technologies and innovations for power tools?
A: As battery technology advances, innovation in cordless tools is moving at a rapid pace and providing real increased efficiency opportunities on the jobsite. Lithium-ion cells are becoming slightly bigger, but the performance and runtime from the battery is reaching new levels. But more important than runtime is the resulting power – the wattage produced from the latest batteries. A typical battery can produce 800 watts, but now we’re seeing battery technology capable of producing 1000 to 1,500 watts – closer to the 120V outlet in your home. It really shows that technology in battery cells is becoming more advanced and we’re recognizing the need for corded tools to become cordless. We’re moving beyond cordless drills into higher-power tools like cordless reciprocating saws and miter saws, packing the power of a corded tool.
It’s important for professional tool users to know, however, that the higher battery voltage the less runtime. DeWalt may have a 60V battery, but it only provides two hours of runtime. Looking at an 18V battery, the user has the same performance level, but gets six hours of runtime, depending on the application. Sure, you can add the 3X voltage, but then you get 3X less runtime. That’s important to know.
Information provided by: Bosch Power Tools
