Your batteries decide which tools you can use, how long you can work and how much you spend. This guide explains battery systems, amp-hours and chargers in plain English.
Battery systems
Cordless tools are built around a battery "platform". A tool made for one platform's battery won't fit another's. We make tools and batteries for three of the most common 18V platforms:
- DeWalt-compatible (18V/20V)
- Makita-compatible (18V; many chargers also take 14.4V)
- Milwaukee-compatible (18V, plus a 12V range)
Pick the system you already own and every tool you add can share the same batteries. That's why we sell most tools as tool only as well as in kits.
What does Ah mean?
Amp-hours (Ah) measure how much energy a battery holds. A higher Ah battery runs longer between charges, but it's bigger and heavier.
- 5.0–6.0Ah: a good balance for drills, sprayers and caulking guns.
- 8.0Ah: longer run time for high-draw tools such as grinders, saws, blowers and impact wrenches.
Voltage (18V) stays the same: Ah is about run time, not power.
How many batteries do you need?
- One battery: fine for occasional DIY.
- Two batteries: one in the tool, one on charge, so you rarely stop.
- Three or four batteries: full days on site, or several tools in use at once. Our 3 and 4-battery kits come with a dual charger.
See 3-battery kits and 4-battery kits.
Single, dual or 4-port chargers
- Single-port rapid chargers charge one battery at a time.
- Dual-port chargers charge two batteries together, ideal with 2–4 battery kits.
- 4-port chargers charge a full set overnight or between jobs.
A higher charging current (amps) refills a battery faster. Each charger listing shows its current and which battery models it takes. Check your battery's voltage and model against the listing before you buy.
Looking after lithium-ion batteries
- Store batteries part-charged in a cool, dry place, not in a freezing van overnight.
- Let a hot battery cool before charging it.
- Charge on a hard, clear surface away from anything flammable.
- Use a charger made for your battery system.
- Stop using a battery that's swollen, cracked or gets unusually hot.
Are these genuine branded batteries?
No. Ours are independent replacement batteries and chargers designed to be compatible with those 18V systems. Each listing shows the compatible models.
Shop batteries and chargers.
DeWalt, Makita and Milwaukee are trademarks of their respective owners. Pro Direct Tools is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or authorised by these brands.