Guide to choose the best DeWalt batteries

Today, on the Mister Worker® Blog we ask Domenico Esposito, the Commercial Training Manager of the Stanley Black & Decker group, to answer the most frequent questions we receive about batteries and cordless power tools.

As an expert on DeWalt power tools, Domenico explains the major advantages of cordless power tools, how to choose the batteries best suited to your needs and how to use these tools to maximize battery life.

Domenico also discusses market trends and prospects for the world of cordless tools. It is a very innovative sector that continues to offer ever more performing products, characterized by power and autonomy considered unattainable until a few years ago. Moreover, in this blog post we will get deeper into the topic of DeWalt batteries, such as the 5ah battery, DeWalt 18v battery, and more.

What are the advantages of cordless power tools?

Cordless tools are preferred for three main reasons:

Improved Performance: Cordless power tools work with batteries that provide a long-lasting power. This way, the autonomy of tools is longer and professionals can also enjoy flawless performances.
High Practicality: They do not require a cable-connection, so they offer greater freedom of movement
Enhanced Safety: They allow for increased safety in the workplace, since cables and pipes can cause problems and injuries
Increased Time-Saving: Cordless tools can be used instantly without the need to find power sources, manage extension cords, or unplug and re-plug devices.
Greater Sustainability: These tools, especially when compared to gas-powered alternatives, tend to produce less noise and no direct emissions, making them more environmentally friendly.

How do I choose a DeWalt cordless power tool?

In response to the growing demand for cordless tools, the range of battery-powered tools available has widened. There is much more than DeWalt impact drivers and drills, the selection of cordless power tools encompasses several auxiliary tools, such as nail guns, routers, planers, multi tools, circular saws and more.

However, these electric tools have very different characteristics and professional users may face some difficulties when using batteries with different voltages, especially if dealing with non-compatible batteries and chargers.

What are the different types of Dewalt batteries?

DeWalt has developed three types of battery technology, designed for their cordless power tools. Each type varies in terms of voltage, capacity, and technology.

XR tools with 12v or a 18v platform, particularly effective on a wide range of applications
FLEXVOLT tools with a motor of up to 54v, capable of achieving performance comparable (if not superior) to that of corded tools.
POWER STACK tools that work through an innovative battery cell technology that donates them an outstanding amount of power.

The problem of battery compatibility was overcome thanks to the DeWalt FLEXVOLT battery, which provides a double voltage (18v and 54v) and can be used on the whole range of DeWalt cordless power tools of medium and high capacity. These products carry big advantages: not only do they reduce costs, but they also improve work efficiency.

Following this innovative concept, DeWalt is developing other products to create an increasingly organic system that aims to improve professional equipment's efficiency. Innovation also continues in the field of DeWalt accessories, which are developed to achieve maximum performance and improve the autonomy of cordless power tools (for instance, the new range of circular saws and saw blades is designed specifically for this purpose). From a safety point of view, all DeWalt power tools come as standard with extremely innovative safety mechanisms, such as anti-vibration, anti-kickback, anti-rotation systems, and a complete dust extraction system to work in a cleaner and safer work environment.

What is the difference between Dewalt 20V MAX and 20V XR batteries?

20V MAX Batteries:
- The "20V MAX" designation is a voltage classification for DeWalt's standard line of 20V lithium-ion batteries.
- They guarantee an extraordinary amount of power for most general tasks and are compatible with all 20V MAX tools.
- These batteries are available in different capacities (measured in amp-hours or Ah), in order to meet different runtime requirements.
20V XR (eXtreme Runtime) Batteries:
- These technologically advanced batteries are designed for extended performance.
- XR batteries typically have a higher amp-hour rating, providing longer runtime compared to standard 20V MAX batteries.
- They are also optimized for efficiency, since they use advanced technology to deliver more power with less weight.
- 20V XR batteries are compatible with all 20V MAX tools, but their advanced features often make them more expensive.

What is the difference between a DeWalt 2Ah and 5Ah battery?

The difference between these two types of batteries primarily lies in their capacity and the corresponding impact on runtime, weight, and size:

Capacity and Runtime: The amp-hour (Ah) rating indicates the battery's capacity and runtime. A 5Ah battery contains more energy and, therefore, provides more than twice the range of a 2Ah battery.
Weight and Size: A higher-capacity battery, like the 5Ah, will generally be larger and heavier than a 2Ah battery due to additional cells. The latter is lighter, as well as more compact, which can be advantageous in situations where portability and reduced tool weight are essential.
Usage: The 2Ah battery is suitable for light or moderate tasks where compactness and ease of handling are priorities. On the other hand, the 5Ah battery is better suited for demanding tasks where continuous operation and longer runtime are required.
Cost: A 5Ah battery typically costs more than a 2Ah battery due to the increased capacity and the materials used.

Ultimately, the choice between a 2Ah and a 5Ah battery depends on the specific requirements of the task and the desired balance between runtime and portability.

What does XR mean in DeWalt batteries?

The term “XR” stands for extreme runtime. Dewalt power tools with the XR logo have a brushless motor that better controls energy transfers and offers increased efficiency compared to brushed alternatives. Tools with this technology paired with high capacity batteries give the user a long lasting power to complete even the most demanding jobs.

The idea behind XR was to provide cordless tools that are tough on the outside and smart on the inside. This means improved run-time and performance, achieved thanks to an efficient management of the energy transfer from the DeWalt XR battery to the motor. Compared to previous lines, DeWalt XR batteries and tools are better protected from overcharging, overheating, overloading and deep discharge has been improved.

Which DeWalt battery is the best?

Between the various battery models, the DeWalt FLEXVOLT battery 20V/60V MAX* 15.0 Ah battery is certainly to be considered as the best. It provides a significantly higher capacity of any DeWalt battery. This battery can be used with XR and XR FLEXVOLT power tools and, thanks to the incredible results it guarantees, it is perfect for all those situations in which professionals need extended times of operation.

How long do Dewalt batteries usually last?

DeWalt batteries can last around 3 years, or 300 to 500 charge cycles. Of course, the battery pack’s lifespan depends on a number of external factors. These might be, for example, the state of the pack’s charge when it was stored, the conditions and the temperature of the room where the battery is placed and so on. If the temperature is too high or too low, the battery won’t be completely charged. It is always best to pay attention to the location in which batteries are stored. If they are kept in appropriate conditions, they can last even more than 3 years.

What is DeWalt's longest-lasting battery?

The brand’s longest-lasting battery is the 20V MAX* DeWalt PowerStack™ 5Ah battery. This battery stands out as the most powerful, efficient, and durable in its class.

With its extended lifespan and advanced technology, it provides reliable performance for demanding tasks while ensuring longer runtime and optimized power for a range of DeWalt tools.

How to extend the lifespan of Dewalt batteries?

To extend the life of a DeWalt battery, store it in a cool, dry place between 40°F (4°C) and 80°F (27°C), avoiding extreme temperatures. Use it regularly, recharging when the charge is down to about 20-30%.

Employ the correct charger and avoid overcharging or overheating the battery by letting it cool after heavy use. Remember to handle the battery with proper care to prevent drops or physical damage.

Regularly clean the contacts with a dry cloth to maintain good connectivity. These practices will maximize the lifespan and performance of your battery.

Battery life depends on the number of charging cycles, which vary depending on the type of battery, the manufacturer and the conditions of use. In particular, the number of charging cycles depends on the quality of the cells used in the manufacturing of the battery. DeWalt batteries (such as DeWalt 18v batteries and DeWalt 54v batteries) have first quality cells with a very low impedance so that they do not overheat and are not overloaded even when the most powerful tools are used. This allows for an increase in the autonomy of the battery and an increase in battery life.

Is it safe to leave the DeWalt battery on the charger?

It is commonly thought that leaving a battery in charge after it is fully charged will lead to damages to the pack and will shorten the lifespan. But DeWalt chargers are developed with a maintenance mode that allows batteries to remain connected even after they’re completely charged without unpleasant consequences. DeWalt also specifies that it is positive not immediately to disconnect the battery from the charger after the end of the charging process, as this way the DeWalt battery gets through the equalization and maintenance modes as necessary. Moreover, as pointed out before, it is recommended to completely charge the battery as soon as the power of the electric tool reduces, because letting the battery totally run down will negatively affect its life-cycle.

Is it possible to reset a DeWalt battery?

If the DeWalt battery shuts off, you can restore it by placing it into the charger and leaving it until the continuous light signal appears. This means that the battery is fully charged or has been reset. As far as timing is concerned, the battery usually charges in about eight hours. Here again, battery temperature plays a key role: if the internal temperature of the battery is too high (70°C or more), the charger will take action as soon as the internal pack temperature drops below 60°C, in order to avoid damages.

When should I buy a corded power tool?

Corded tools remain the best option only when cordless alternatives are unable to offer adequate performances in terms of power and/or autonomy. However, innovation in this field is moving fast. The DeWalt 54v battery performs with powers that exceed 1500-1600 W of a corded tool and there are also instruments that use two 54v batteries. As far as autonomy is concerned, we are moving towards a future where battery performance will be able to provide an adequate solution even to the most demanding expectations. It is only a matter of time, everything we know by tube or wire will soon be available as cordless.

New Dewalt tools and Technologies

The technologies that DeWalt is presenting aim at developing a wider and more performing range of cordless power tools. DeWalt is also working on the integration of digital tools and technologies in tooling, thus providing efficient management of the equipment, especially in large construction sites. While there are already applications that allow you to change the features of the tool via Bluetooth, in the future we expect the possibility to control the equipment remotely, switching to technologies that break the limit of the distance. Another fact to consider, is that professionals increasingly reward companies that offer credible and effective solutions to overcome the limit given by corded tools. Therefore, DeWalt is relentlessly pursuing a cordless jobsite.

Find out more about power tool batteries and chargers by reading this additional article on our blog.

How to choose the best DeWalt batteries for your power tools