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The Pros and Cons of Brushless Power Tools for Home DIY Projects

The Pros and Cons of Brushless Power Tools for Home DIY Projects

November 13,

Introduction

As DIY home improvement projects become increasingly popular, many homeowners are exploring power tools that make tasks easier and more efficient. Brushless power tools have emerged as a top choice known for their durability, power, and low maintenance requirements. But what exactly are brushless tools, and are they right for your DIY needs?

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In this guide, we'll explore the pros and cons of brushless power tools to help you decide. From understanding the key benefits and differences compared to brushed models to reviewing the best types for common home tasks, this article covers everything you need to know before investing in these innovative tools.

What Are Brushless Power Tools?

Brushless power tools use a motor without carbon brushes. Unlike brushed motors, which rely on brushes to transfer electrical current, brushless motors use an electronic controller to create power. This design provides several benefits, which we'll dive into below, and can improve your DIY experience, particularly for heavy-duty or continuous tasks.

Pros and Cons of Brushless Power Tools

A Homeowner Drills with Precision and Safety Gear

Advantages of Brushless Power Tools

  • Higher Efficiency and Performance:
    Brushless motors adjust power based on task demands, meaning they won't draw excessive power during lighter tasks. This feature results in greater efficiency and often a longer battery life, making these tools ideal for projects that require consistency and endurance.
  • Reduced Maintenance Needs:
    Unlike brushed motors that require regular replacement of carbon brushes, brushless motors are virtually maintenance-free, which saves time and money over the lifespan of the tool.
  • Increased Durability and Longer Tool Life:
    The absence of friction from brushes leads to a cooler-running motor, reducing wear and tear on the tool itself. This aspect is ideal for homeowners looking for reliable, long-lasting tools for home improvement projects.

Disadvantages of Brushless Power Tools

  • Higher Up-front Cost
    Brushless tools often cost more than their brushed counterparts. However, the longer lifespan and reduced maintenance can offset this initial investment, especially if you frequently use your tools.
  • Overpowered for Smaller TasksFor light, occasional tasks, brushless tools might be excessive. If you only need a drill for minor repairs, a brushed model could be more economical.

Corded vs. Cordless Brushless Power Tools: Which Should You Choose?

The choice between corded and cordless models can impact both your budget and convenience. Here's a breakdown of each to help you determine the best fit for your DIY projects.

Corded Brushless Power Tools

Pros:

  • Reliable, uninterrupted power
  • Typically lighter than cordless models (no battery weight)
  • Often lower in cost due to lack of battery components

Cons:

  • Limited mobility due to cord
  • Not ideal for tasks far from power outlets

Cordless Brushless Power Tools

Pros:

  • Enhanced flexibility and portability
  • Convenient for tight spaces and outdoor work
  • Rechargeable batteries offer extended run times

Cons:

  • Requires battery management (charging, replacements)
  • Heavier due to battery weight

If you frequently work around the house, a cordless brushless tool provides convenience and ease of use. However, if you don't mind staying close to an outlet, a corded model can be a budget-friendly choice without compromising power.

Top Brushless Power Tools for Common DIY Home Projects

To help you make an informed choice, here are some of the best brushless power tools available for essential home projects. These picks are chosen based on performance, affordability, and ease of use for DIY enthusiasts.

Brushless Drills

DEWALT 20V XR Drill Kit with Battery and Charger

  • Dewalt 20V MAX XR Drill
    A popular choice for both professionals and DIYers, this drill offers excellent battery life and power. The compact size is great for working in confined spaces.
  • Makita XFD131 18V LXT Drill
    Known for durability and consistent performance, this drill is a solid investment for home improvement tasks, with ample torque for most household applications.

Brushless Saws

DEWALT 20V XR Drill Kit with Battery and Charger

  • Milwaukee M18 Fuel Circular Saw Lightweight and powerful, this saw handles wood, drywall, and even metal with ease. It's ideal for homeowners tackling renovation or woodworking projects.
  • Ryobi P508 One+ Circular SawA more budget-friendly option, Ryobi's circular saw is reliable without a high price tag, making it a great choice for beginners or occasional users seeking quality on a budget.

Brushless Multi-Tools

Versatile Bosch GOP40-30 Oscillating Tool Kit: Complete with Accessories

  • Bosch GOP40-30C StarlockPlus Multi-Tool
    Featuring multiple attachments, this multi-tool is perfect for sanding, scraping, and cutting. It's versatile and designed for various DIY tasks.

High-Performance DEWALT 20V XR Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit

  • Dewalt 20V MAX XR Oscillating Multi-Tool
    With speed control and multiple accessories, this tool offers versatility, making it a great addition to a DIYer's collection.

Each of these tools offers a balance of power, efficiency, and reliability, making them excellent choices for homeowners and hobbyists alike.

Essential Safety and Maintenance Tips for DIY Power Tool Users

Brushless power tools require little maintenance, but there are still steps you can take to ensure they perform well and last a long time.

  • Safety First: Always wear safety goggles, gloves, and ear protection. Avoid loose clothing and keep work areas clear.
  • Battery Care for Cordless Tools: Store batteries in a cool, dry place, and avoid fully depleting them whenever possible to extend battery life.
  • Regular Cleaning: Use compressed air to blow dust out of your tools, especially after heavy use, and wipe down exteriors with a dry cloth.
  • Check for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect your tools for signs of damage or wear, and avoid overloading tools beyond their intended use.

Adhering to these tips can prevent malfunctions and extend the lifespan of your tools, keeping them in top shape for future projects.

Storage Solutions for Home Power Tools

Keeping your tools organized is just as important as choosing the right ones. Proper storage not only extends tool life but also keeps your workspace safe and efficient.

  • Toolboxes and Tool Bags
    Portable options like durable toolboxes or tool bags keep essentials on hand and are great for small spaces or apartments.
  • Wall-Mounted Storage
    Perfect for garages or dedicated workspaces, wall-mounted systems save space and keep tools accessible. Peg boards and hooks make it easy to see what you have and grab tools as needed.
  • Cabinets and Drawers
    Great for larger power tools, dedicated cabinets protect them from dust, while drawer inserts can help organize small accessories, bits, and attachments.

Proper storage will help you make the most of your investment and keep your tools ready for action.

Conclusion: Should You Choose Brushless Power Tools for Your DIY Needs?

For many DIY enthusiasts, the benefits of brushless power tools'efficiency, durability, and lower maintenance'make them a worthwhile investment, especially for frequent projects. With the right choice between corded or cordless models and with careful attention to safety and maintenance, brushless power tools can be powerful allies in your home improvement journey.

We may receive affiliate compensation for some of the links below at no cost to you if you decide to make a purchase.

Best cordless garden tools: in-depth buyer's guide

Jump to:

  • What are some of the most popular cordless tool system brands?
  • What's the difference between a cordless tool set and a cordless multi-tool system?
  • Are cordless garden tools right for you?
  • How to choose the best cordless tool system for you?
  • Everything you need to know about cordless tool batteries
  • Best cordless garden tool systems
Five reasons to buy cordless garden tools
  1. Cordless tools are light, quiet and efficient.
  2. They don't need fuel or an outdoor power source so there are no trailing cables or emissions to worry about.
  3. Lithium-ion batteries charge quickly, hold their charge and don't degrade in storage, which is important for gardening tools as they might not be used on a daily basis.
  4. If you're looking to buy more than one tool, you can use the same battery across a brand's range of power tools, which reduces cost.
  5. Cordless tools also don't need as much maintenance as their petrol counterparts, which saves time and money.

There are a number of cordless tool system brands, below we've listed some of the most popular. And if you're looking for specific cordless tool, you can see how various tools go head to head on test in our round-ups for the best hedge trimmers, the best cordless lawn mowers and the best pressure washers.

Worx

Worx's PowerShare outdoor tool range includes:

  • Hedge trimmer
  • Grass trimmer
  • Lawn mower
  • Pressure cleaner
  • Leaf blower
  • Chainsaw

The PowerShare range uses a 20V battery, which can also be used with their DIY power tools in the same collection.

Read our Worx WG779E cordless mower review and Landroid S300 WR130E robot mower review, which both won Gardeners' World magazine Best Buy awards.

Buy Worx cordless tools on Worx, Amazon and Ebay.

Stiga

Stiga's cordless tool range includes:

  • Series 100: Multi-tool system, lawn mower, hedge trimmer, grass trimmer and leaf blower. The tools in this range are powered by a 20V 4Ah battery.
  • Series 500: Multi-tool system, lawn mower, hedge trimmer, grass trimmer, leaf blower and chainsaw. The tools in this range are powered by two 48V 2Ah batteries.
  • Series 700: lawn mower, hedge trimmer, grass trimmer, leaf blower and chainsaw. The tools in this range are powered by Stiga E-Power E440, 4Ah batteries, which are sold separately.
  • Series 900: lawn mower, hedge trimmer, grass trimmer, leaf blower and chainsaw. The tools in this range are powered by Stiga E-Power E475, 7.5Ah batteries, which are sold separately.

Read our Stiga Collect 136AE Kit cordless mower review and our Stiga 500 Multi Tool System review, both of which won Gardeners' World magazine Best Buy awards.

Buy Stiga cordless tools on Stiga, Amazon and Just Lawn Mowers.

Stihl

Stihl's cordless tool ranges include:

  • AI: hedge trimmer, grass trimmer and leaf blower, which all have built in batteries.
  • AK: lawn mower, hedge trimmer, grass trimmer, leaf blower, scarifier and shrub shears, which are powered by AK10, AK20 and AK30 lightweight 36V batteries.
  • AP: lawn mower, hedge trimmer, pole pruner and chainsaw, which are powered by AP100, AP200 and AP300 36V batteries.

Read our Stihl Compact Cordless Power System review, HSA 56 Hedge Trimmer review and iMow 422P robot mower review, all of which won Gardeners' World magazine Best Buy awards.

Buy Stihl cordless tools on Stihl, Amazon and Just Lawn Mowers.

Bosch

Bosch's Power For All cordless tool ranges include:

  • 18V System: shears, hedge trimmer, hedge pole and grass cutter
  • 26V System: lawn mower, hedge trimmer, grass trimmer and leaf blower

Read our Bosch Power For All 18V Cordless System review and Rotak 32Li review, as well as the ALS Leaf Blower review and EasyHedgeCut 12-35 review, which both won Gardeners' World magazine Best Buy awards

Buy Bosch cordless tools on Bosch, Amazon and Tooled Up.

Makita

Makita Power For All cordless tool ranges include:

  • 18V System: leaf blower, hedge trimmer, grass shears, pole hedge trimmer, string trimmer, line trimmer, brush cutter and wheelbarrow
  • Twin 18V System: lawn mower, pressure washer, leaf blower, leaf vacuum, chainsaw, pruning shears, brush cutter and line trimmer
  • 40V System: leaf blower, hedge trimmer and line trimmer

Read our Makita DLM460PT2 Cordless Lawn Mower review, which won a Gardeners' World magazine Best Buy award, and our Makita DUH551Z Hedge Trimmer review.

Buy Makita cordless tools from Amazon, My Tool Shed and Tooled Up.

Ryobi

Ryobi cordless tool ranges include:

  • One+: lawn mowers, hedge trimmers, leaf blowers and chainsaws, which are powered by an 18V battery
  • MaxPower: lawn mowers, hedge trimmers, grass trimmers, leaf blowers and chainsaws, which use 36V batteries

Read our Ryobi One+ System review, which won a Gardeners' World magazine Best Buy award

Buy Ryobi cordless tools on Ryobi, Amazon and Ebay.

Greenworks

Greenworks cordless tool ranges include:

  • 24V: Multi Tool, lawn mower, hedge trimmers and grass trimmers, which are powered by a 24V 2Ah battery
  • 40V: lawn mower, hedge trimmers, grass trimmers and pressure washer, which are powered by a 40V 4Ah battery
  • 60V: lawn mower, hedge trimmers, grass trimmers and pressure washer, which are powered by a 40V 4Ah battery

Read our Greenworks 24V Multi Tool review.

Buy Greenworks cordless tools on Greenworks, Amazon and Ebay.

Senix are exported all over the world and different industries with quality first. Our belief is to provide our customers with more and better high value-added products. Let's create a better future together.

Flymo

Flymo cordless tool ranges include:

  • 2 C-Link: Multi tool system, lawn mower, hedge trimmer, blower and grass trimmer

Read our Flymo 2 C-Link Multi Tool system review

Buy Flymo cordless tools from Flymo, Amazon and Homebase

What's the difference between a cordless tool set and a cordless multi-tool system?

Cordless Tool Systems

These are individual tools, sold separately and usually with the choice of with or without a battery and charger. Therefore once you've bought your first tool, battery and charger from a particular range you only need to buy 'bare' tools from that range in the future. Tools available can include:

  • Strimmers
  • Hedge trimmers
  • Pole pruners
  • Leaf blowers
  • Vacuum blower
  • Lawn mowers
  • These usually come as a set that is made up of one pole with interchangeable heads

To find out more, watch our cordless tool system buyer's guide:

Cordless tools can require a bit of forward planning to keep your batteries charged - there's nothing more frustrating than waiting for batteries to charge when you're ready to start the job at hand.
If your cordless tool uses a rechargeable battery pack, it's often a good idea to have a spare, which can be charged while the other one is in use, but batteries can be expensive because they are complex to manufacture.

Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries need a special charger to match the battery's specific size, but this can increase the costs. Some cordless tools don't come with the battery and charger included, while others have a range of different sized batteries that fit the range and provide more power - great news, but they will require a specific charger to fit their size.

How to choose the best cordless tool system for you?

Think about your garden and what sort of tools you'll need to tackle different jobs and choose your range accordingly.

  • Consider the run time and charge time of batteries. For example how tall and long is your hedge and how big is your lawn - if you have small hedges, a short battery life isn't such an issue as it won't take too much time to cut. On the other hand, if you have a large lawn, you'll want to feel confident a cordless mower won't run out of battery half-way through the job. If the run time is short, you may want to consider choosing a model with a quick charge time or buy a second battery, so you're not delayed for too long.
  • Look out for cordless tools that show how much charge or run time they have left with an LED display on either the battery or charger (or both).

Everything you need to know about cordless tool batteries

Jump to:

  • What do the terms voltage (V), amp-hour (Ah) and brushless motors mean?
  • Which are the best batteries for cordless tools?
  • Are cordless garden tools right for you?
  • What do I need to know about Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries?
  • How long do lithium-ion batteries last?
  • Are Lithium-ion powered cordless tools the most sustainable option?
  • How do I dispose of lithium-ion batteries?

What do the terms voltage (V), amp-hour (Ah) and brushless motors mean?

Once you've chosen which type of cordless power tool you're looking for, it's time to think about power. Most brands offer a range of cordless garden tools, which vary when it comes to the power they offer, from entry level needs to a higher spec that is designed to be used in large gardens, and by professionals.

Three factors determine the power of your cordless power tool:

  • Voltage (V) - indicates how much power the lithium-ion battery can provide. The higher the voltage, the more powerful the battery, which is important if it's powering a tool that requires a bit more oomph, like a mower or leaf blower.. Keep in mind that more power generally means the battery will be heavier and more expensive too, so it's important to gauge what you need for your size garden or task
  • Amp-hours (Ah) - tells you how much charge the battery can deliver in an hour. If you have 2 batteries, you can double the run time.
  • Brushless motor - which means no energy is lost by the friction caused by traditional brush motors that rub against things. They are more energy-efficient and can run on batteries for up to 50 percent longer, but they're more expensive.

Sometimes cordless tools can be bought with an integrated battery, in other words the battery is built into the tool and you charge the whole tool as opposed to just the battery, but most often they come with a chargeable battery pack - usually lithium-ion - which is removed from the tool to charge and can be used to power other cordless tools in a brand's range. Integrated batteries are smaller than battery packs, making this type of cordless tool cheaper and lighter than those with removable batteries but the batteries don't hold a charge as long so they're ideal for smaller jobs.

Cordless tools with a chargeable battery pack might be a little heavier and more expensive but if you're happy to stay with one brand, you can use the same battery with other tools in the range. While you can expect to pay a little more for them, if you're happy to stay with one brand, you can use the same battery with other tools in the range assuming their size and voltage is compatible.

What do I need to know about Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries?

The most common batteries used in cordless tools are lithium-ion. Technology behind lithium-ion batteries has dramatically improved in recent years, because they're the same batteries used to power electric cars and energy storage. Significant investments have been made to develop the battery's efficiency and performance and you can now expect the same power from cordless tools as you would get with corded and petrol alternatives.

Lithium Ion (Li-ion) batteries are ideal for cordless garden tools because they provide a decent amount of power, and, despite being relatively small, can cope with being charged time and time again regardless if it's fully or half used, so you don't have to worry about charging it at the right time and in the right way.

How long do lithium-ion batteries last?

While this will always depend on use and storage, lithium-ion batteries hold their charge for months, even if only partially charged.

Lithium-ion batteries hold their charge for months, even if only partially charged.

In the long term, lithium extraction may have a detrimental impact on the environment, (according to earth.org, Lithium is extracted through 'water-mining', which requires an enormous amount of water throughout the process and toxic chemicals are needed to process lithium, leading to frequent water contamination and shortage lithium-producing countries). Ultimately, if lithium could be recycled, this would help manage the demands and make it a more sustainable option. In the meantime, they are a much better alternative to fossil fuels and signify a move towards sustainable development.

How do I dispose of lithium-ion batteries?

Although these rechargeable batteries come with a healthy lifespan of several years, ultimately when they need replacing they must be recycled. Some manufacturers will have the batteries back and recycle them, otherwise find your local recycling depot that will accept them.

Cordless garden tool systems on test

Stiga 500 Series

Our rating: 4.5 out of 5

Pros:

  • Range of batteries and chargers to choose from
  • Excellent performance and power
  • Helpful indicator lights
  • Tools well thought out with excellent features

Cons:

  • Heavy
  • Expensive - Battery and charger must be bought separately
  • Limited range of tools in the system

Our testers found the SHT 500 AE Cordless hedge trimmer was able to cut woody growth well and the rotating head locked easily into five positions. The battery on this tool is quite large meaning it could be heavy for some users. The SGT 500 AE Cordless grass trimmer is easy to assemble and the wide head cuts efficiently. The tool is very adaptable as the shaft is telescopic, the handle adjusts and head also rotates, with a wheel for effortless edging.

This tool set sits at the higher end of the price-range and is best for committed gardeners. The tools performed every job well so we judged it a Best Buy.

Read the full review at: Stiga 500 Series review

Stihl Compact Cordless Power System

Our rating: 4.5 out of 5

Pros:

  • Available with or without battery
  • Very easy to set up
  • Light, comfortable and well balanced to use
  • Tools have good features
  • Good value once you have a battery and charger

Cons:

  • Long charge time
  • Limited range of tools in the system

The hedge trimmer HAS 56 cuts woody growth efficiently and comes with a handy safety lock. The grass strimmer FSA 56 has an adjustable shaft and handle and copes with most rough lawn areas well. The leaf blower BGA 56 is light and quiet with an adjustable tube so it's suitable for most heights. There's only one speed setting but it handles leaves and smaller debris well.

There's no assembling as the tools arrived ready to go and the batteries charge in 80 minutes. We found the system was efficient and good value money and would suit regular gardeners or bigger gardens. We judged this a Best Buy through our expert cordless garden tools reviews.

Read the full review at: Stihl Compact Cordless Power System review

Bosch 18V Power for ALL Cordless System

Our rating: 4.3 out of 5

Pros:

  • Extensive range of tools in the system
  • Choice of batteries and chargers
  • Very light and comfortable
  • Good manoeuvrability
  • Tools have some good features

Cons:

  • Feel flimsy
  • Lack power
  • Short run time

We found the Universal Hedgecut 18-500 and Universal Grasscut 18-260 from this cordless garden multi tools system were simple to set up and the battery was easy to swap and recharge. The charger has indicator lights to let you know when the tool is fully charged. The hedge trimmer felt well-balanced and the 'Antiblocking system' stopped growth jamming the blades. However, it was less powerful than other tools and felt a little flimsy, although the blades were longer.

The grass trimmer head rotates easily for trimming although the cutting diameter is quite small. We liked the ergonomically designed handle and the way the battery tucked comfortably under the arm during use.

Read the full review at: Bosch 18V Power for ALL Cordless System review

Greenworks 24 V Cordless Series

Our rating: 4.3 out of 5

Pros:

  • Extensive range of tools available
  • Fast charging time
  • Good warranty length
  • Light, simple tools

Cons:

  • Limited range of batteries and chargers
  • Batteries and chargers purchased separately
  • Unusual handle design for some testers

The 24 V string trimmer and hedge trimmer cordless garden multi tools set comes with battery and charger included, which is unusual for this style of tool.

The grass trimmer has a rotatable head for edging but a slightly small handle meant the tool was uncomfortable for some testers. The hedge trimmer also had issues with the handle, as testers felt it was insubstantial. It is a light tool but struggles with thicker growth. The leaf blower was more comfortable to use and felt powerful, with two speeds plus a nozzle for more focused blowing.

Read the full review: Greenworks 24 V Cordless Series review

Save £30.99 on the Greenworks G24HT 24 V cordless hedge trimmer on Mad4Tools

Save £50.99 on the Greenworks line trimmer in a bundle with the Greenworks cordless mower on Mad4Tools

Individual cordless tool reviews

Our experts have also put a number of individual cordless tools through their paces, from various tool systems, including:

The company is the world’s best brushless garden tools supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.