Corded vs Cordless Power Tools. Which should you use?

Cordless power tools have grown hugely in popularity and performance in the last 10 to 15 years – which may have left you wondering whether it’s worth owning corded power tools anymore. So, should you be looking to go completely cordless, or is it worth keeping hold of those corded tools?

Why choose corded power tools?

The main reason for choosing corded tools is the consistent power they provide. Corded tools will run at either 110 or 240 volts (depending on whether you’re on a work site or at home). Compare this to the most powerful cordless battery at 54 volts, and there’s a clear distinction.

Since corded tools are plugged into mains electricity or a generator, they will provide that consistent power all day long. Even the best batteries will only last a few hours before losing power and needing to be recharged.

Batteries will also deteriorate over time with consistent charging and self-discharge if not used (click here to see our blog with everything you need to know about power tool batteries). Corded tools will maintain their productivity throughout the lifetime of the tool.

Why choose cordless power tools?

Without a power cord holding you back, you can use a cordless tool almost anywhere. The greater manoeuvrability means you can be up ladders or in cubby holes without stretching wires across a room. This also makes cordless tools safer, as there are no tripping hazards or possible electrical shocks from damaged wires.

Additionally, cordless tools don’t rely on mains power to work. As long as you have a fully charged battery or two, you can be on a work site without access to an electrical socket or power generator.

If you choose to stick to one tool brand, you can usually interchange your batteries with all the tools from that brand. For example, an 18V Lithium-ion DeWalt battery will work on all modern 18V DeWalt tools.

However, you can expand this tool range even further with a ToolSupply.SA! A ToolSupply.SA will convert your current 18V battery to work with 18V DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee and Ryobi tools.

A ToolSupply.SA can also negate the initial cost of owning battery-powered tools. With the ability to use an 18V battery across more than one tool range, you can buy tools from other brands, without adding the cost of an additional battery. They also offer you the ability to interchange between two separate battery systems and keep your tools powered for longer.

Conclusion

Your working environment and tool requirements will dictate whether you need a corded or cordless tool. If you’re mainly using your tools for DIY purposes, you can’t go wrong with cordless tools. Their power is more than sufficient to handle any job in and around your home, and you don’t have to worry about constantly fighting with wires.

However, if you’re using your tools for more heavy-duty purposes, you may be better off using corded tools. Their extra power and consistent supply of electrical current will keep you going all day.

Do you use corded or cordless tools more regularly? If you use cordless tools, have you ever used a ToolSupply.SA with them? Let us know in the comments below.

Visit our website at ToolSupply.SA to get your tools today and save yourself some money when buying your next cordless tool.