Power tools have come a long way, and lithium-powered options¹ are changing the game. Yet, many B2B buyers² still hesitate to make the switch. Are they missing out?

Lithium-powered tools offer longer battery life, faster charging, and better performance than traditional options, making them ideal for professionals who demand efficiency and reliability.

I’ve seen businesses struggle with outdated tools that slow down work and increase costs. If you’re still on the fence about lithium-powered tools, let’s break it down.

What is the difference between 12V and 18V battery?

Voltage is a key factor in a power tool’s performance. But does higher voltage always mean better results?

A 12V battery is lighter and ideal for light-duty tasks, while an 18V battery delivers more power and runtime for heavy-duty applications.

Understanding voltage in power tools

Voltage determines a tool’s power output. Here’s how 12V and 18V batteries compare:

Feature	12V Battery	18V Battery
Weight	Lighter, easier to handle	Heavier, more robust
Power	Best for light-duty tasks	Ideal for heavy-duty work
Runtime	Shorter, needs frequent charging	Longer, fewer interruptions
Cost	More affordable	Higher price but better performance

A 12V system is perfect for precision tasks like assembling electronics or light drilling. But for construction or automotive work, 18V provides the muscle needed.

What is the difference between 12V and 20V power tools?

Some brands market 20V tools, while others stick with 18V. What’s the real difference?

Technically, there’s no difference—20V tools are just 18V tools marketed differently, based on peak voltage rather than nominal voltage.

Marketing vs. Reality

Battery voltage is measured in two ways:

• Peak voltage: The highest possible output (often listed as 20V).
• Nominal voltage: The actual working voltage (typically 18V).

Most 20V tools use the same cells as 18V ones. The "20V" label is just branding. When comparing tools, focus on amp hours (Ah) and battery quality rather than just voltage.

Is a higher voltage battery better for cordless tools?

More voltage usually means more power, but is it always the best choice?

Not necessarily. While higher voltage batteries provide more power, they are heavier and may not be needed for every task.

Finding the right balance

• For everyday tasks like drilling and fastening, 12V or 18V is often enough.
• For cutting, grinding, or heavy-duty drilling, 18V to 24V may be better.
• Beyond 36V, tools become bulkier, which may not always be practical.

It’s all about matching the tool’s power to the job—more voltage isn’t always the best answer.

Are Dewalt 12V and 18V batteries interchangeable?

Many tool users hope to mix and match batteries to save money. But can you swap Dewalt 12V and 18V batteries?

No, Dewalt 12V and 18V batteries are not interchangeable because they use different battery platforms and connectors.

Battery compatibility explained

Dewalt designs batteries to fit specific voltage platforms:

• Dewalt 12V batteries work only with 12V tools.
• Dewalt 18V batteries work only with 18V tools unless an adapter is used.

If you want cross-compatibility, look into Dewalt’s FlexVolt system, which allows 20V/60V interchangeability.

How to tell if a battery is 12V or 24V?

If a battery isn’t labeled clearly, how can you identify its voltage?

Check the label, measure with a voltmeter, or count the internal battery cells to determine if a battery is 12V or 24V.

Methods to check battery voltage

1. Read the label – Most batteries have voltage printed on them.
2. Use a multimeter – Set it to DC voltage mode and measure.
3. Count the cells – Each lithium-ion cell is about 3.6V. A 12V battery has around 3 cells, while a 24V one has 6 cells.

If unsure, always check the manufacturer’s specs before use.

Conclusion

Lithium-powered tools offer efficiency, reliability, and longer battery life. Choosing the right voltage ensures the best performance for your needs.