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Cordless power tool batteries are interchangeable?

Posted on November 29, 2021

cordeless powertool

Are cordless power tools batteries being interchangeable? The answer to this question is both yes and no.


Let’s first understand “why not?”

Batteries from two distinct brands of cordless power tools are not interchangeable. If you buy a Makita power tool, for example, you won't be able to use Milwaukee batteries with it. The explanation for this is straightforward. The incompatibility of a battery pack with an alternative brand's power tools is what allows manufacturers to remain lucrative over time!

Companies construct their batteries in such a way that they can't be used with power tools and power tool accessories made by a competitor.

This assures that consumers will return as their power tool batteries wear out and they need to replace them, or if they require an extra set to power their machine for large tasks.

Furthermore, the limitation of battery compatibility within brands benefits firms in avoiding warranty claims.


Now, from the above explanation, you can make it out that why the answer to this is also yes.

Yes, power tool batteries are interchangeable if they are from the same manufacturer.


If we sum up, the answer is that batteries from two distinct manufacturers of cordless power tools and power tool accessories are not interchangeable. However, batteries from the same brand can be used on other power tools from the same brand.


Do lithium-ion batteries for power tools interchange?

The answer to this is No. You can't use one battery in place of the other, whether it's alkaline or lithium-ion. The size and form (as well as the voltage) are incompatible with those of another manufacturer's product.


Can I use a 20v cordless power tool with a 40v battery?

Let's imagine you have a Milwaukee cordless drill that requires a 20v battery to operate. You just so happen to have a Milwaukee cordless circular saw with a 40v battery.

Is it possible to use that 40-volt drill? If they're from the same series, you'll probably be able to connect the battery to the drill, but what will happen then?

With that much power, it's unlikely that your drill will last very long. The cordless drill will most likely be fried by the 40v battery.

So, we would recommend not doing that! Instead, buy a suitable battery, such as a 20v in this case.

Now we hope you make the right choice based on the above information.