Cylindrical Li-ion Batteries | Cordless power tools (drills, saws) | 18V, 250 Wh/kg energy density, UN38.3 certified (passes UN transport safety tests), CE certified | ▲ Highest energy density (250 Wh/kg) ▲ Fast charging ▲ Lightweight ▲ Safety certifications | Higher cost, requires BMS, flammable electrolyte risk |
Prismatic Li-ion Batteries | Compact power tools, handheld devices | 18V, 200–220 Wh/kg, ISO 17065 certified (safety compliance) | Better thermal management ▲ Lower cost than cylindrical ▲ Slim design | Lower energy density than cylindrical ▲ Heavier for same capacity |
Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) | Legacy tools, low-drain applications | 1.2V/cell (15 cells for 18V), 100 Wh/kg, no UN38.3 certification | Cheaper upfront cost ▲ No risk of thermal runaway ▲ Durable in deep discharge | Lower capacity ▲ Slower charging ▲ Memory effect ▲ No safety certifications |
Lead-Acid Batteries | Low-cost tools, backup power | 2V/cell (9 cells for 18V), 30–50 Wh/kg, IEC 60896 certified (basic safety) | Extremely low cost ▲ Robust in harsh environments ▲ No BMS required | ▲ Heaviest (5–10x denser than Li-ion) ▲ Short lifespan ▲ Environmental risks |
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄) | Safety-critical tools, commercial vehicles | 3.2V/cell (6 cells for ~19.2V), 120–160 Wh/kg, UL 2580 certified (fire safety) | ▲ Inherently safe (no thermal runaway) ▲ Long cycle life (2,000+ cycles) | Lower energy density ▲ Higher cost than lead-acid ▲ Slightly heavier than Li-ion |
Solid-State Batteries | Emerging high-end tools (prototype stage) | 18V+, 300+ Wh/kg (projected), ASTM E2089 certified (puncture resistance) | ▲ Highest safety ▲ No flammable electrolyte ▲ Potential for 2x lifespan | Not commercially available ▲ Extremely expensive ▲ Fragile material risks |