Cordless Tools Buyer's Guide

Cordless tools such as drills, saws and sanders are very convenient, not requiring any power source other than batteries. However, just because it's cordless does not mean you should not be a cautious consumer when evaluating brands and models. Power tools are a pricey investment and should be purchased wisely. After all, you want to be able to use them for a long time, so it pays to do your homework. Think of this buyer's guide as an introductory course on cordless power tools. It will help give you the tools to properly weigh the alternatives and make an informed choice.

Batteries

Most cordless power tools have relied upon nickel-cadmium rechargeable batteries, but more recently lithium-ion batteries have come on the scene. Ni-Cad batteries have been in use for a long time, but the complaint with them is that they are quite heavy and the cadmium can seep into the water supply if dumped in the trash. As an alternative, lithium-ion or Li-ion batteries are lighter and don't have the environmental aftereffects. However, based on some tests, many Li-ion batteries have difficulty recharging if run down to a complete discharge. If left for a long time without use, they lose life as well. Replacement Li-ion batteries are quite expensive, whereas Ni-cad batteries are much more reasonably priced. Despite being weightier, Ni-cad batteries don't have the recharge problem and thus still comprise most cordless power tool batteries.

Comfort Check

One of the best things you can do to check if a cordless tool--especially a drill--is for you is to simply hold it in your hand. Check the weight, the alignment and the all-around comfort of it. Some cordless drills attempt to be different by having a tilt to their driver. The best cordless drills, however, will point straight ahead. It won't be exceedingly heavy, but it won't be light either. It should be balanced in your hand, so you'll know when using it won't be uncomfortable.

Power Requirement

Cordless drills come with a particular voltage amount and torque. If your cordless drill will be kept around the house for everyday uses, you probably don't need the highest voltage, most powerful model. At home you are more than likely not drilling into steel girders, so get a drill that will do the jobs you need it to for a long time.

Technology Is Not always Better

Rather than spend $100 on a super-lightweight, portable Li-ion-powered cordless drill, purchase a nice screwdriver. A cordless drill should have a little weight to it to give you the power to drill quickly and effectively when you need to. A drill that is lightweight is typically light on power. Chances are, anything it can do well you can do by hand. 

Remember, when buying cordless power tools, weigh the pros and cons of the different battery types, physically hold it in your hand to check its comfort, be honest with yourself when you decide how much power you need, and don't try to substitute a fancy--and expensive--cordless drill for something a hand screwdriver can do just as well.