Let's Settle This! Are Cordless Power Tools REALLY Better? Torque, Cutting Speed, Noise, Vibration
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- Опубликовано: 11 июн 2022
- Corded & Cordless Tools Tested: Makita corded and cordless circular saws, Milwaukee Reciprocation Saws, DeWalt angle grinders, DeWalt Drills, Ridgid Oscillating Multitools. Tools tested for cutting speed, blade stop speed, weight, noise, and vibration. I buy all of the products and supplies used to test products to ensure unbiased reviews. So, thank you for supporting the channel!
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➡ As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
➡ Products Tested In This Video (in no particular order):
DeWalt Cordless Drill: amzn.to/3MI51IK
DeWalt Corded Drill: amzn.to/3xDGT5N
DeWalt Cordless Angle Grinder: amzn.to/3xCL2XS
Dewalt Corded Angle Grinder: amzn.to/3xE0uml
Milwaukee Cordless Reciprocating Saw: amzn.to/3Qflbwj
Milwaukee Corded Reciprocating Saw: amzn.to/3QdzYYo
Makita Cordless Circular Saw: amzn.to/3O3XHZa
Makita Corded Circular Saw: amzn.to/3QcoioJ
Ridgid Cordless Oscillating Multitool: Available at Home Depot
Ridgid Corded Oscillating Multitool: amzn.to/39msvFU
Videography Equipment:
Sony DSC-RX10 III Cyber-shot Digital Still Camera: amzn.to/2YdXvPw
Canon 70D Camera: amzn.to/31b5Gy0
Azden Microphone: amzn.to/34d3DLE
Go Pro Bundle: amzn.to/3Ca0ZVN
This video is only for entertainment purposes. If you rely on the information portrayed in this video, you assume the responsibility for the results. Project Farm LLC 
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This cannot be said enough: Your test rigs are absolutely incredible! They must take a ton of time and creativity, yet they always come out perfectly, and it's what makes this channel so uniquely useful. Well, that and about 500 other things :).
Thanks so much!
@Evan Mayer Couldn't agree more, Todd's testing is the best, He's the Wile E Coyote of the testing world LOL.
@@jasonodell608 he did catch his roadrunner but it’s name just happened to be TTI…. Lol
Can only agree. I kind-of hope that he's doing at some point a behind-the-scenes video, like how he comes up with a new test rig, the testing he does, but also how his place looks with all these test rigs being around and how the process is going on putting together a full review video. Love the content :)
Yep. Always impressed with PF's attention to detail. Excellent channel!
I personally feel like corded power tools don’t get the same love when it comes to R&D anymore.
No which is 1 of the reasons they're usually starting to fall behind. Just look at the corded tools and they just look cheap! Like why are so many corded tools still made with brushed motors???
There are some exceptions tho, I have a dewalt DWE4357, which actually IS a premium corded angle grinder. Has all the bells and whistles and it has 1700 Watts of brushless power for it's 125mm discs. I bought that one mostly for wire brushes as it has variable speed and I can tell you it certainly isn't a slouch!
Yep, if they put brushless motors on corded saws they'd rip but tbh there is very few uses for cordless saws now outside of stationary tool or super high drain tools
Companies get a heck of a lot more money from cordless because, once you buy one tool with their battery, you're much more likely to buy the next one from them so you can use the same battery.
Yep its all about getting you hooked onto one battery since the battery is what costs so much generally. After you get a few tools of one brand you'll continue buying that brand for the battery.
@@andrewk8636 AC motors are already brushless. A DC brushless motor works in a very similar way to an AC motor which is inherently way better.
It's also important to acknowledge that tool companies have a financial incentive to improve battery powered tools and make them more feature rich than corded. They make a lot more money on batteries than the actual tools.
Thanks for the feedback.
Yeah, batteries are the printer ink of the tool world.
I think it makes sense for the end users too though - let's face it, most people who are going to be buying LOTS of tools and batteries are probably using them all the time on job sites with possibly inconsistent power accessibility and still demand high performance or they'll shop elsewhere. For people using them all day every day the convenience also saves them time and money making the higher price worth it for corded power without lugging extension cables or generators.
As a DIY person, I might use a circular saw a couple times a year...I have a tough time stomaching $200 for a cordless one that I will probably use in my garage or back deck next to a plug anyway, and I'm also willing to accept slightly lower performance in a lot of things if its 1/3 the price and is sufficient for the job. If I really need to use it farther out in my yard, I can drag out the 12 gauge extension cord for that rare time.
@@JoshuaSaundersAtLarge They certainly are an ecosystem. Big companies like TTi produce battery tools for several brands such as Ryobi, AEG, etc. yet they're all incompatible with each others battery series.
Yes and no. Markup on both tools and batteries is very high (think of all those "buy a set, choose one for free" types of deals). Batteries don't account for nearly as much revenue, as the typical homeowner can buy the whole lineup of tools and still get by with two 2Ah batteries and one 4Ah. No need to get tens of batteries if you can only use one tool at a time.
Yes, contractors buy a lot of tools and batteries, but 1) I feel like they go through tools faster than they go through batteries; 2) homeowners buy a lot more tools than contractors -- the construction company does not have a circular saw for every employee for instance.
I own both corded and cordless tools and enjoy both. The big plus of the corded tools is twenty years from now they still work fine and I don’t have to worry about battery issues. That said I often use my cordless tools for ease of use, no cord.
Thanks for sharing.
That is true. I bought a Hitachi corded hammer drill about 15 years ago. I abused it a lot. I still have it, and it works just as fine, while a cordless Dewalt drill I bought two years ago has issues with the speed control.
True enough, but if you run a company you can go through 4 grinders or drills in a couple hours in the wrong hands or environment.
Came here to say the same. Still have some of my dads corded and air tools from 60 years ago. My cordless stuff be in the trash in 10 years because of battery issues guaranteed. Not because of anything nefarious its just the tech is in the batteries keep getting better. Backwards compatibility would be great but the tool company has no financial incentive to do so when then can sell you brand new tools.
Same here. One thing they have thought about is getting people stuck in their ecosystem. I buy the same brand just because I already have the batteries
Best tool boxes? Maybe you can do a video ranking every single tool type from your testing. Like all in one video, a list ranking drills, saws, sanders. Everything so a new person can just get a nice recommendation
Thank you for the video idea!
@@ProjectFarm I like the idea too, however, maybe split it into categories. Like best hand tools and best cordless tools... Its hard though because if somebody invests in a particular brand of tools, they are likely to stick with that brand due to battery compatibility. Maybe give each brand of tools a combined rating and see which is the overall best brand. 😂 Or maybe that will make too many people upset
That’s gonna get expensive 😂
I think a Milwaukee pack out test would be cool
@@ProjectFarm you aren’t comparing the convenient accessibility of NO EXTENSION CORD! Thats priceless
Idk if people realise how much preparation and how long it took you to record this and get all the information you gathered but I am very impressed! Keep up the good work
Thanks, will do!
As they say, Very Impressive!
@@ProjectFarm That could actually be a cool video of a different type, behind the scenes what goes into these test videos. You do an absolutely AMAZING job of them, and I'm quite sure I don't have a good appreciation for how hard you work to come up with these amazing test rigs that provide real-world-relatable data in a hands-on environment similar to how they would be used on an actual job site. RPMs and amps are whiz-bang easy to market stuff but your test tells me how frustrating or easy it will be to actually get the job done.
@@matthewmiller6068 this would be a video to bring to the top of the list!
@@ProjectFarm See Matthew Miller suggestion below ref a behind the scenes tour/video :D
I suspect what we are also seeing are the effects of R&D that has solely gone into battery based tools because it’s what the market prefers due to not having to deal with cables. A lot has changed in motors gear boxes and machining quality that is likely not justifiable for curved tools, not to mention that corded tools do not come with lucrative follow on purchases of batteries that make the tools far more expensive over their life, especially when considering that one needs multiple batteries to operate a tool all day every day, i.e., at capacity.
And with corded, they've only been researching how to make them as cheap as possible, so the build quality may not be what it used to be either.
@@InfernosReaper there are options for better corded tools. Comparing a hammer drill/driver to a bare bones corded hammerdrill leaves a bad taste in my mouth. The corded variant is designed to bore small holes in masonry and stone, the two most important characteristics are rotation speed and BPM. torque sufficient to clear dust from the surface and prevent binding is all that's necessary. Yes, if you're curious, I beat an older, expensive milwaukee combo hammer drill/ driver to death and went through 3 batteries a day doing relatively light work drilling holes for fasteners in an overhead concrete slab in a parking garage, for a couple weeks. That corded variant would have taken that damage, worked faster, and needed no recharging if I had used it instead.
@@InfernosReaper This is why I go to estate sales looking for the older Japanese, european and American-made corded and hand tools.
i'd guess that as well. logically if the same r&d went into both the cordless would always be better since its just a matter of how many amps you can get to the motor which just depends on the voltage, but seeing as the batteries are charged from the same wall you are plugging the cords into the battery voltage can only ever be the same or lower than the corded, but the battery loses volts as its used the corded doesn't. only way battery can be better is if you start adding a bunch of batteries to them, but then there is no point if the thing weighs half a ton, and you either need to wait hours for many batteries to charge or spend money on a charger for each battery
For construction workers, battery tools are the only option when the job site doesn’t have outlets cuz the building isn’t live yet and what little extension cords we do have is used for large tools like table saws and for lighting plus it’s a lot easier and safer when you’re on a ladder or lift.
You will always go far with honest scientific testing. This channel is pure gold for the consumer.
Thanks so much!
Being in new construction as an electrician, battery powered hand tools are a must. Everyone has an opinion on what brand and type of tools are the best. I’m always glad to know that someone is putting these opinions to the test in a fair, accurate and unbiased manner. This has got to be one of the best channels on YT for tradesmen. Great job as usual.
Electricians are team red and carpenters are team yellow. That is what is best.
Makes sense if you're often going from room to room and there are no outlets available _because you are installing the outlets_
This and tool box buzz are the channels I use before making a purchase.
I mean yeah for cutting conduit and screwing screws then battery is okay. But if your cutting 2-4 inch cores all day or cutting 250+ 4x4s a day than that's not the case unless you have like $10,000 worth of batteries. A $500 generator and $100 worth of 10g exstenton cord is WAY less than even 2 sets of batteries to run a sds max hammer drill or skill saw/sawall. They both have their application. I like battery, it's more portable. But for a skill saw or sawall or grinder especially a 7in grinder then plug in is what I reach for.
Thanks so much!
Todd has figured out the perfect way to acquire all of the tools without having to justify it to his wife.
Yep. Just pull out the "for educational purposes" card.
I don't think his wife's complaining considering the revenue this guy makes is close to a million a year
I think the joke went over your head.
It's for science!
@@TheTheRandomShow1234 probably closer to like half a million
Still one of my favorite channels!
Raw tests and Data, presented in a way any layman can understand. You sir, are awesome. Thank you for taking the time to create these videos. Hope you thrive
Thanks and you are welcome!
I have watched many of your in depth reviews of products over the years and they are great.
I am only disappointed that you don't have your own review channel on TV, they are that entertaining.
Thanks for watching! Thanks for the feedback.
It seems like the manufacturers have put more effort into improving the cordless tools than the old technology corded ones. Good video!
Thanks! Thanks for the feedback.
There's also the restriction that for a mains tool to use brushless motors, they'd have to first convert the power to DC and bring down the voltage. That kind of circuitry is both expensive and bulky. They use cheaper AC motors in the tools (that don't have the same features as high power DC ones) instead.
With cordless tools, your mains step-down hardware is all handled in the charger, a central device that you only need one of.
@@ConstantlyDamaged why must they bring down the voltage? If anything rectifying the ac should raise the voltage because the capacitor used in rectification.
@Damaged I do not believe your assertion is correct. A brushless DC motor in a given tool will be wound with the given supply voltage in mind. In the case for battery powered tools, typically anywhere from 18 to 60V being your bridge voltage depending on what you've got. There are some brushless corded tools being released by manufacturers such as DeWalt's DWE43240VS , though mine has been on backorder for 2 months because I don't want to be extorted by Grainger to get it sooner. I'd like to verify some of the design elements in it, but I don't have it.
Having said that, a BLDC motor can be wound with a higher DC bridge voltage in mind, making it possible to drive such a motor from a rectified AC->DC converter with no DC to DC voltage conversion being involved. The inverter(Part of any BLDC system) will then simply change its PWM duty cycle as it drives the motor phases to control current, which will control torque, which will control speed with the assistance of some feedback (motor position preferably for speed, but depends on implementation... and current sensing for the other primary feedback signal).
The manufacturers have just been pushing this battery crap on us as hard as they can, so it's more a function of R&D not being directed toward corded tools. Corded impacts tend to have pitiful torque ratings compared to their battery powered counterparts, for instance.
I remember when the corded saws were categorized by HP. Then they went to amps. It sounds crazy, but one of those old school HP rated circular saws will run circles around this new stuff. I had to make an 18' long stringer for an old victorian home I was remodeling. No One had a piece of oak 16" wide and 20' feet long. Finally my customer found one at an old redneck saw mill in the middle of nowhere. It was rough cut. Literally a slab cut off of a massive oak tree. It was about 2 1/2" thick and uneven widths. I had to make a straight piece out of it. My customer had a big table saw. (mine was at home in the shop). We tried to run it through it and it bogged the motor down. I got out my old school circular saw. He looked at me like I was nuts. He said you can't use that if it bogged down my table saw. We struck two lines (one on each side.) That old saw cut through that oak like butter. He was tripping. I then had to plane it, sand it, stain it and varnish it. It came out beautiful. My customer gave me a $500 tip when I finished that stair case.
What about a showdown between the battery chainsaws, string trimmers, and lawnmowers vs the gas ones? That would be interesting.
Great suggestion!! Thank you
Yes, great idea! Replying to get behind this idea and have it go to the top! ;-)
Been hoping for a string trimmer video. I need to buy one soon, and I don't like to purchase tools without consulting this channel first 😂
@@Doc__Vegapunk He just did one on string trimmers.
@@ProjectFarm I'm surprised you didn't compare the maximum run times between the cordless and corded tools. 😺
I base all of my tool buying decisions off of your videos. Seriously the most useful channel on RUclips.
Thanks for sharing!
Wow, the tool tests are great, but I really appreciate the test tracks. Your attention to detail and pursuit of consistency is impressive.
Thanks!
Every Sunday morning before Todd posts a new video, I find myself watching his old ones to pass the time.
Awesome! Thank you!!
the amount of work this guy goes through is mind-blowing. to be honest, I dont even care about power tools but I still stayed and watched the entire video lmao. its always interesting. thanks!
You are welcome!
If you ever have a garage sale for your old equipment I'd definitely be there 😉 Your tool collection must be massive by now! Thanks for all the tests! 💚
Actually what I don't save for future episodes I donate in my community. You are welcome!
@@ProjectFarm Wow, this guy is amazing!
Would love to see different wire connector tests (wago 221’s, traditional wire nuts, etc.) Thank you for such thorough reviews! Keep up the great work.
Definitely second this.
Thanks, will do!
Great Scott already did it.
Several people on RUclips have already done comprehensive tests (Great Scott did it and another guy did as well). Both tests were exactly the same. Wire nuts give less wire resistance than any of the other connectors (the wire heats up less and less power is lost as heat). However, all three types of connectors are legal under the NEC, so it will be up to your local codes or who you're working for.
Each tool has its place. I select Corded tools when I have a lot of cutting/work to do so I don't have to keep changing batteries. Also, Corded drills always cut the same unlike battery tools when the battery gets low. Thank you!
Agreed 100%, and another advantage of corded tools is if you only use your tools on occasion you don't have to wait for the batteries charge up, or worry about if they have gone bad on you having set around, just get an extension cord, and get to work, plus overall corded tools are cheaper to buy if you are putting a garage/workshop together on a budget.
Also if you only do something now and then not often corded tools are better always on hand and always work. Battery tools tools are good if you use them a lot and have more than one battery.
Buy extra batteries and you'll be good. Yes, they are expensive but I have a job and my convenience of not moving a cord around things is well worth any amount I need to pay 😉 Good luck to U out there! 👍
Exactly. Like that taco kid said, why can't we have both?
I like cordless because when you release the trigger it stops very quickly. I've broken a few drill bits with a corded drill (tried to break my wrist).
An expensive round of testing!! Kudos to Project Farm for their dedicated research.
Thanks!
@@ProjectFarm Are there any examples where a corded device exists in the same price bracket as the cost of a cordless device + battery? I would like to see that comparison and I feel it would be more fair than comparing the devices at a set price point and treating the battery cost as a separate thing. Part of the price of the cordless device is the manufacturers assumption that you will be buying their battery, and its pretty obvious there is a lot of margin baked into the cost of these battery packs.
Unfortunately its just not like for like as per the purpose of the video.
Most tool brands now have a dedicated range that is corded tool power in a cordless version - in this video dual 18V Makita ,however in the angle grinder test for example a 800w cordless vs a 1342watt machine or 1.8 horsepower makes it an irrelevant test and as such the results showed.
If the flex volt cordless grinder was used it would be far more comparable at circa 1500w.
Same in the multitool test, the brushless rigid model would perform more comparable to the corded one in this test.
He does do a great job overall but some of these inconsistencies can be a tad misleading, just something to consider before drawing any conclusions.
Love your work. Your summary at the end was perfect. Go with the corded tools if price is a factor, you will get similar output. If you need mobility and can pay a little extra get a cordless tool. And always use the right tool for the job, as per the geared vs single speed drill result.
As a DIY/home user I buy corded for most tools to avoid having to buy and manage batteries.
Thanks! Thanks for the feedback.
The big test for me on most of these tools is how they will compare in 10 years. The cordless will be near useless unless I get a replacement battery, and that assumes that they haven't moved on to a different style of battery by then. The corded one will still work.
Thanks for the feedback.
I have corded tools that are 30 years old. I have gone through 4 cordless drill, mostly because of needing battery replacements. I prefer corded for this reason since I am a DYIer and not a professional using these daily.
@Peter Allen : Exactly my thought !
This right here, when I got on my own back in 2009 I bought cordless power tools, but they were still Ni-Cad, of course a year later Lithium Ion came out, I couldn't afford to replace my tools, eventually all my NiCad tools crapped out. My dad on the other hand still chugging away with his power tools that all have to be plugged in..tools that are 40 years old. I went all corded since. Aside from my Impact Driver since I use that solely for portable jobs.
@@neoasura
In 2009 lithium ion power tools were around, but even those weren't close to what they are today. And they were expensive compared to today.
I definitely prefer corded angle grinders for zip cutting metal with the power that they have. I also like the capability of cordless when working on site
Thanks for sharing.
Totally agree grinders need accorded power for peak cutting and grinding amps he. Cordless simply don’t last in real work environment uses. I have both. My favorite in a 1966 model that’s now illegal on most job sites it’s it’s so industrialized strong made of heavy duty metals no plastics in this than again takes a lot of strength to use it. But for heavy duty jobs nothing can keep up with it. The cordless one I love the dewalt and it’s light enough my daughter uses it. Hint she can’t carry the 1966 model 😂 I admire her effort to be like dad. Lol dewalt an outstanding cordless jyst no cordless is equivalent to a corded tool for stamina. Batteries die electricity is consistent.
@@blackwidowsm pop
I own both an old school 15 amp metabo and a Milwaukee cordless one. Plenty of torque with the Milwaukee the only thing is the battery does eventually run out.
@@DavidStapley0982 Thats why you have multiple batteries....
Best Tool Tester in the WORLD!!! Amazing how far technology has advanced into the power tool industry. I love the comparisons and all the valuable information your content provides. You take informed buying decisions to a whole different level Todd. Thank you for your heartfelt response. It was tough to read through the whole thing without taking a moment. It meant a lot. Thank you Todd
Brandon S
Thanks and you are welcome!
I have a new appreciation for your channel due to the [NO SPONSOR] production. Most all channels are choosing to give their own infomercial for 2 to 5 min. during the video post. Bad enough that RUclips runs additional adds. A+
Thanks!
An important fact, that is often missed is at these tests, always new and fully charged batteries are used, but they don't stay that way when using them. And if you forgot to charge them, you can't use the tool at all for hours.
When using corded tools, you always have 100% power.
This is really an excellent point. The speed and torque of battery tools is highly dependent on voltage, which drops in a linear fashion until near the end of battery life.
But at the cost of portability though
By hours you mean half an hour right?
Surely if you are planning some DIY or are a professional having a charged battery is just part of the preparation? I mainly have corded tools, but I specifically purchased by cordless Hitachi driver where the battery has very low self discharge so can sit in the cupboard for literally years and is ready to go when I need it.
Several hour charging time dates back to before lithium batteries were common, more than a decade ago. A lithium battery can reliably be charged in much less than an hour, certainly won't take several hours. Battery powered tools aren't always ideal though, I'll agree to that. For driving screws and light cutting my battery drill and battery circular saw are ideal. For heavier cutting or just cutting a lot in general I prefer my corded saws. For metal drilling you can't beat a good old corded drill press.
I have a 3/8 variable speed reversing drill by Milwaukee. It's corded, and it was purchased in 1978. I have replaced the trigger and power cord. It still works just fine for driving screws. I can't tell you how many cordless vsr drills I've bought and thrown away over the years, the main reason being battery obsolescence and tool quality. I still use my Dewalt cordless tools all the time, but I doubt they'll be around in another 40 years, but I bet the old Milwaukee will be.
Thanks for sharing.
Correct
Steve, try the Ridgid. Fabulous power, and you can’t beat the Lifetime Guarantee - batteries included. Oh, and it has a 1/2” chuck. You’ll never appreciate driving screws more, especially NOT having to drag an extension cord up a ladder.
I love that you get straight to the point and have the charts of comparison at the end👍🏽
Thanks!
You must have a BIG warehouse to store all the tools that you have got for these videos over many years :) Anyhow, these test videos or yours are very well thought out and a joy to watch, thank you!
Actually what I don't save for future episodes I donate in my community.
@@ProjectFarme
Been waiting for this. I personally prefer corded for demanding tools like air blowers, sanders, etc cause batteries are expensive in the long term. But impact wrench and drill definitely battery.
Edit : the 10amp or more on corded was useful info too
For home, battery. I'm lazy as hell, I take out a battery powered tool much sooner. No cable, extender, outlet searching... Click, do, forget.
In work however, we need punch, we usually already have a power source nearby, so mostly corded.
@@redlinegme593 absolutely. I've procrastinated small home jobs because I didn't want to go get a cord and deal with it.
Thanks for sharing.
impact wrench for serious torque i always go air.
@@ronblack7870 Yeah no doubt. Air is king for max torque. Especially Astro Onyx THOR in 3/8 or larger line
For the Drill test it would have been nice to see a test using the drill as a drill, with something like a 1 inch auger bit. Corded drills are designed to be drills, not screwdrivers or impact wrenches, so seeing it doing what it was designed to do would have been nice.
Thank you for the feedback!
That's what I was thinking. The corded doesn't have a clutch. I'd also be interested in comparing the hammer action of a corded vs cordless. I have a feeling the hammer action on the corded drill is much larger than the cordless.
Thanks for this! Hope this opens up a series of corded vs battery accross all the options! Also, old corded (from the 80's, 90's etc) vs new corded. Great stuff!
You are welcome! Thanks for the suggestion.
As always, great information and video. I hope you know how much you’re testing is appreciated. Thanks for another!
Thanks and you are welcome!
I'd bet by this stage in the game, you have accrued a collection of power tools that is second-to-none, and many would consider "very impressive!!" 😄
True, sir…. But many of them have been destroyed by the others. And a great pile of material for recycling LOL. I think next he might review storage sheds.
probably returns them the next day
You are a legend Todd… another great video, with meticulous research and effort put into the end result. I truly believe you are the most accurate and entertaining tool review channel out there. Keep up the good work. Watching from Prince Edward Island, Canada.
Wow, thank you!
Having a blade break in a saw is great, I sometimes like to tie off my guard with some wire when it’s getting in the way… but then every time you finish a cut you gotta wait for the blade to stop before setting it down, so I’ve been loving the blade break feature as well as the rafter hooks that cordless saws are coming equipped with
Thanks for the feedback.
Wow, thought provoking comparisons! Thanks. My cordless 7-1/4” saw can’t match the power of the worm drive I bought in 1977, but it’s easier to carry and very handy when there’s no power nearby. Both types of drill motors have their uses. “Obsolete” older corded drill motors are cheap, and very handy for wire wheels, flap wheels, etc. The cordless spends more time driving screws and even mixing paint than it does drilling holes. I have corded tools from the 60’s, the 70’s and the 80’s. I wonder if any of my cordless tools will last 50 years.🙄
Thanks!
I can't get my cordless tools to last 5-10years let alone 50. Nothing is made to last forever anymore. Now that we let China make everything, 1 year is a win.
I would just like to add that corded tools can be found at garage sales, marketplace, craigslist, etc for pennies on the dollar in good shape. Keep up the great work.
Cordless from 10 years ago are not expensive too. And there are inexpensive off-brand batteries for them as well
Thanks, will do!
@@feedbackzaloop those are not lithium ion but nicad. those really suck.
@@ronblack7870 NiCd are good for those under 10 bucks they are sold for. But still, there were li-ion already. Still have a couple of 12v Bosch from 2009 (compatible with recent batteries, of course)
@@feedbackzaloop Very true and cross platform battery adaptors are available online as well.
This was an interesting test and shows how far the tech has come in the last 20 years.
Even if the corded tools had won every test though, it wouldn't really matter because many of the job sites I go to don't have any power or there's only one spider box for everybody to share.
I remember the old days of running 100's of feet of extension cords or air hoses. What a nightmare. Now we even have cordless compressors if a guy wants to run air tools, but I switched to airless nailers long ago and will never go back.
I don't want a box full of spiders.... Just set it on fire.
@@iwinrar5207 🤣
You still need to charge.
@@D-B-Cooper You can do that with a small portable generator or even solar panel
exactly.....when I first started, I was debating corded or cordless. Both have their merit. However, cordless tools are a must for me for the same exact reason you mentioned. I would have lost many job opportunities and generator noise and fumes in enclosed areas is a no for me
This was fantastic!!!! I've always wondered which battery tools perform as well or better than corded tools!
I also like that you tested the major brands.
Thanks for another excellent test!
Thanks and you are welcome!
Straight to the point, it’s obvious this guy knows what he’s doing. Thank you sir
You are welcome!
Another high quality comparison video from Project Farm. Thanks for taking the time to create such informative content.
Would like to see how the corded adapter for dewalt’s cordless tools compares to a true corded tool and a cordless with a battery.
Thanks for the suggestion.
check out torque test channel, they tested this already
I been wondering why they never had those, and with your comment I realize they did finally add such an attachment. Seems like a logical choice over the old corded options.
Your closing statement pretty much covers it. Different tools for different needs. Well done on this one. Thanks for doing what you do.
Thanks and you are welcome!
I mentioned a few months ago, I was surprised by the difference between my corded DeWalt angle grinder and the cordless in that video. Also mentioned it nearly ripped itself from my hands... Seeing how much the corded version shakes explains a lot! Thanks for testing that!
You are welcome!
You have always done a good job testing tools, but I feel on these test you took it to a whole new level of professionalism. A++ Always love your content...
Thank you very much!
Can you please test gasket makers and Different gasket materials?
Thank you for the video idea!
Yes. This would be helpful for sure!
Leather gaskets and cork would be interesting
I’d like this as well! 😁
yes. great idea! 👍👍👍
sealing / gasketing is one of those horrible, messy and usually fairly urgent diy tasks that if you get wrong, the consequences are even worse and you have to start over with what little gunk you have left from before.
i'm gonna stop now because there are too many double-entendres but a good video suggestion. 😉😲
I love your no s#!+ straight to the point videos.. every second is always worth watching! Always fair tests and well made test rigs.. the effort you put in is much appreciated! They must take a long time to make and edit.
Don't change a thing bud! 😁
Thank you 👌
You are welcome!
Man, I commented on another video that I would like to see this, I didn't realize you had already done it. I'll have to make sure to search your existing videos before making a suggestion. Thank you for the work you do.
You are welcome!
Its been my theory for a while that many manufacturers have shifted almost all of their R&D and innovation to their cordless lines while basically just rebadging their older corded gear with the new years shapes and decals etc.
Its incredible how far cordless tools have come over the last 5-6 years.
Thanks for sharing.
Corded tools are finished products. I have several from 1960's: Metabo circular saw, high torque drills (AEG, B&D, Metabo), B&D sheet metal cutter etc.
Metabo saw was first used by my grandfather, then my father (both professionally) and now I use it.
The quality of that time German tools is unsurpassable: full aluminium body, second plastic cover inside that (for full electric insulation), protection against over heating, oil filled gearbox (yes, you can change gearbox oil), big ball bearings for durability, very finely balanced for minimal vibration, fully epoxy coated wiring inside the motor, thick rubber cable etc
It's not just a theory. I read an article a couple years ago saying most R&D is going into cordless because that's where the market is going.
I said the same thing R&D has completely quit on most corded tools and it started years ago. If you had corded and battery operated with equal engineering those battery tools would get smoked by the corded ones.
thats almost certainly what's happening. Theres no reason with as many amps and volts as a wall outlet can provide that a corded tool should be weaker than a battery powered tool. Any difference in power in the corded tool is clearly due to lazyness on the manufacturers part.
I watch your videos almost every week. This evaluation were about what I'd expect. As a user of both corded and battery I must say I like the battery tools stopping faster when the trigger is released, especially on the angle grinders. I find the cordless to be safer to use and it stops quickly instead of jerking out of your hands when making heavy cuts that grab the blades. And on the drills I break a lot less bits. I use a lot less bandaides this way. Your fixtures and methodical approaches to testing have clearly earned you a Masters Degree in Redneck Engineering! Luv it!
Wow, thanks
1
Pretty easy answer in my opinion...corded last longer and stay consistent powerwise but cordless are more convenient but only for a shorter period
Great point! Thank you
Cordless is always more convenient, but cords exists for a reason.
Headphones for example 😅
Did we watch the same video? Cordless have so many more improvements over corded. All the innovations are put into cordless, while corded have been made the same for 20 years.
@@WetDoggo thats kinda what I was saying haha
@@WetDoggo Bluetooth headphones and speakers
Might go to channel before I purchase any tools! Thanks for the time and effort you put into making these videos! I no longer need consumer reports :-)
You are welcome!
I use rigid octane from their old line up from last year and honestly I love all my cordless tools. I got three 9ah and one 6ah battery. I got the cordless octane grinder, 3/8th impact, and both 1/2 impacts. The 1100ft and the smaller one. I also have a 3/8 cordless extended reach ratchet from Milwaukee .I'm very glad I made these purchases. They help me everyday with zero issues. Rigid also has an awesome warranty thats very easy to set up.
Thanks for sharing.
Cordless tools are so much more handy than corded in so many cases. Anyone who has climbed a ladder with a corded tool knows the frustration of having the cord come apart as one gets in position to utilize it. With battery technology advances the ability to use battery powered tools a real plus. When I started building housing with Habitat for Humanity I bought my first battery powered drill, a DeWalt 14 volt which one needed multiple batteries. Nowadays I keep a couple of 20 volt batteries for my 1/2” impact and my 1/4” impacts. I still use corded for building things on my sawhorses where I don’t have to carry up a ladder.
Great video!
Great feedback! Thank you
You're supposed to tie the extension cord to the tool. You don't count on the plug holding things together. What's the matter with you! You tie cords off.
Great show, I don't use a cordless tool often enough to justify a large difference in the price of my tools. What you showed me is some of the cordless tools are worth buying over the corded models. What is also an expense that was not discussed, was the price of extra batteries and how often they need to be replaced when they have reached the end of their service life, for that reason I usually go for the corded tools. I got burned when the Milwaukie 18-volt tools went to a new style of lithium battery and would not work on the older models. I also like the older corded models because you can find them at yard/garage sales, and they work as well as the newer tools for pennies on the dollar.
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks you for busting a paradigm I had in my head! I never thought a skillsaw would come even close to corded performance. I need a new one and I have a load of Makita cordless tools so I think I might run out and grab this one. Good timing, thanks!
You are welcome!
The only channel I can trust when it comes to these tests. Keep it up
Thanks, will do!
Personally I like having a corded backup. Especially when drilling. The battery just can’t keep up with what I’m trying to do.
Thanks for the feedback.
I agree - it really depends what you need to do. Cordless drill will do small holes and screws all day long but put a hole saw or big spade bit and you chew thru batteries like they're going out of style. Also if you don't want to spend a small fortune, a corded $70 saw will outperform a cordless $70 brushed motor battery saw with ease.
@@matthewmiller6068 I agree. A hole saw is the drills worse nightmare. I use a 3 inch saw a lot it might get through one time, but you’ve gotta get it done seven more times well. It ain’t gonna happen.
Something I noticed is that when you were comparing sawzalls, the battery operated one, the shoe was coming off the 4x4. That could account for longer cutting times also, as the throw length would be reduced, since the saw is now vibrating, (instead of being steady on the 4x4) along with the throw. It also almost seemed like the blade was catching or having a hard time on the nails, which is when I noticed the shoe come off the wood, and the downward movement slowed, until the nail was cut. The corded saw, looked very smooth and steady by comparison.
I saw the same thing, the other thing I noticed is the angle changed when the show bounce happens.
He also compared a regular Sawzall to a Super Sawzall so not exactly the same too
Really think he could keep the shoe 1 32nd of an inch off the 4x4 like that if he tried. The shoe was being pushed off. The corded super has a ton more torque, that will keep that thing steady. Not a corded guy either just saying.
this is completely true, you have to push "in" with a sawzall to get a good cut. if that shoe is not firm against whatever you are cutting, than it doesn't work too well. the downward force isn't as important as keeping that shoe against the material.
@@colbywood8113 the price
the test jigs are beyond impressive. So much ingenuity haha. I love it!
Thanks!
One of the most impressive tests yet, which is saying a lot. Not just the money, either. Those test rigs! Never knew vibration meters existed. folks appreciate this thoroughness.
Thanks!
Been waiting for this test for a long time. You definitely gave a fair review to all the tools, and knew when to appreciate which corded or cordless tool is best for the job.
🥳🥳🥳 Video Ideas 🥳🥳🥳
• Best plastic Tupperware container for garage storage (large, medium, small)
• Best DIYer tabletop drill press
• Best cordless mini handheld-vaccuum (for cleaning in small spaces and inside car)
Thank you very much! Thanks for the suggestions.
It's pretty amazing just how good battery stuff has gotten in the last 10 years. Thanks for the great work.
Thanks for watching!
Maneuverability should’ve also been a key factor for tools like the sawzall, jigsaw, and angle grinder, not to mention workplace environment is a whole ton better then having plenty of cords all over the place
The test matrix frequently impresses me more than the product being tested. Thanks for taking the time to do completely unbiased test, much appreciated.
Thanks and you are welcome!
A cordless drill is one of greatest inventions of the 20th century, and my 9.6 DeWalt from '94 is still in use for my daughter. Other than that, I'd probably go with corded for many tools if line power is available, because cutting speed is not an important feature for me. And I speculate that the corded tools have not had many design upgrades that would make them comparable to cordless tools for some features. Also, except for the Ridgid brand (free battery replacement is included), all of the cordless tools will need batteries replaced at some point which can be a price factor too.
The greatest advantage of cordless is being able to work where there is no electric source. I had a corded angle grinder and hardly ever used it. The DeWalt cordless I bought has allowed me to do work I could never have done otherwise. The variety of blades, brushes, etc. makes it a very versatile tool. Lithium batteries have been totally reliable and last a long time between charges.
Thank you!
An idea for a video that I had when talking to some pals: Pilot holes. We know that they help prevent wood from cracking, but have no idea about the difference. And how much holding strength do you lose? Does drilling a bigger pilot hole really have a huge effect on lose of strength? What about the depth, does stopping half way give the best of both worlds? Anywhoo, love the channel and appreciate all the work you do.
Thanks for the video idea.
Very good test. I was quite surprised at how much better the corded sawzall was! I’ll remember that next time I have some cast iron pipe to cut through.
Good selection of tools too, each brand being known for their selected tool as being the best.
Thanks!
Always finding tests I didn't know I NEEDED to see!
Thanks for watching!
@@ProjectFarm Had another video idea... Shoe or Boot insoles. Watching "FP Insoles" and various other gel, foam, leather, and custom insoles being reviewed. But nobody comes close to your rigorous tests.
Imagine being this guy's neighbor:
"Hey, can I borrow a drill?"
"Sure, you can keep it too, I own 20+ of them and have several more on the way for my next test. Take an angle grinder and circular saw while you're at it I don't have the space!"
LOL
"Yes, you can. Would you like a corded drill or a battery-powered one? Do you want a Makita, a DeWalt, a Ryobi, a Porter-Cable, a Hitachi, a Kobalt, a Milwaukee, a Craftsman, a Bosch, a Black + Decker, or a Makita? Did you want a 6 volt, a 7.2 volt, a 9.6 volt, a 12 volt, a 14.4 volt or an 18 volt? Do you want one made in China, Viet Nam, Germany, the United States .... Hey, come back, I said you could borrow a drill."
Lol!
@@Colorado_Native LMAO!
Todd, you are the best and answering the questions we all have! Keep going ole buddy!!
Thanks , will do!
As always. Very informative video. You are thorough and methodical with the way you test any tool. Take away.....corded are great for indoors, or outdoor (when very close to an outlet), but battery operated gives you the freedom to roam around the yard or away. Sometimes, cordless can be used indoors without being limited by the cord, or schlepping the cord from one outlet to another outlet.
Thank you!
Thanks and you are welcome!
Definitely looks like manufacturers are focusing more on cordless tools instead of corded ones. The margins are much higher when you're selling $100-200 battery packs which can be just as expensive as the tools, in addition to the tool, so they put more effort into them.
One thing that wasn't covered in the video is endurance. I'm sure this is a no brainer for a lot of people, but if you're working on a construction site, tools will be used for prolonged periods of time which means battery endurance really matters. Lithium is pretty good at delivering full performance right until it runs out of juice, however if there is a loss in performance over time with the battery, or if the batteries overheat during extended cuts/grinds/usage, it will really detract from it's value.
this is exactly why i never buy batteries from the manufacturer, far more cost effective to "roll my own"
Thanks for sharing.
Not just endurance of use, but also longevity of the equipment. I still have quite a few corded tools because I really hate buying a new battery or two every 2 years because the cells are wearing out and only last 10 minutes of use by that point. It really adds to the cost when replacing batteries instead of just getting a corded tool out down the line and not having to worry about a thing
The only battery tools I keep around are a ratchet and a drill, because those tend to be things I care enough about the quick ease of use to justify.
Client I just did a job for bought a battery operated lawnmower (green and black but I don't think it was Ryobi). $350 for one of those batteries. He said he got around 2 hrs out of it, called, complained, they sent him another and said to throw the initial one away.
@@SusanWojcickiDidntEarnHerJob Greenworks, maybe?
It would be even more interesting to see a test like this if tool manufacturers put the same time and money into engineering corded tools as they do cordless. I feel like corded tool design has remained unchanged for the last 20 years.
Totally, doing a mains capable inverter would make them bigger (isolation required), while dealing with less voltage from a battery is easier(isolation optional).
Especially if you want to include complex stuff (microcontroller, LEDs e.t.c.).
It's probably pointless in the eyes of the manufacturer. There's more demand for cordless tools, even when they perform worse.
@Subsonic1050 Corded tools have remained the same for well over 20 years. Unless you think corded tools were a new thing back in 2000?
I've been in the metalwork trade for over 40 years. Have corded tools that are over 25 to 30 years old. Not much has changed for them. I have switched almost completely to cordless. Because many job sites have no or limited access to power. Not having to run a mile of extension cord sure save time. Cordless tool will never be as durable but way more portable.
What kind of engineering do you mean? Seems like the corded stuff is already dialed in and built to use the power available. I would love to see more engineering on the functionality/convenience side.
I feel like the only engineering going on with cordless tools is the battery packs, and the performance improvements are simply due to higher output batteries. Eventually they may have to beef up their internals, but I get the feeling the last few generations of a lot of tools were probably the same components, just marketed with higher output batteries.
Idk if I would say its pointless to tool companies, but im sure they would rather be raking in profits than spending money on R&D. Its kind of a shame though because it seems like many improvements could be made, and it wouldn't take a rocket scientist.
I’m going to be honest, I’ll probably never buy any of the tools I see on your channel but I love watching to see what cool testing rigs you come up with!
Thanks for watching!
im addicted to your videos man you do a great job
Thanks so much!
One benefit of corded tools is they're a bit of a pain to move around the jobsite, which actually encourages you to work more efficiently by setting up your work space efficiently, and working systematically by making all your cuts in one location before moving onto the next
With the ease of moving around with cordless tools, I've found that sometimes it actually leads to a lot of wasted movement because you can move from task to task without finishing up one. The freedom is obviously super handy in many cases though, just an interesting thing I noticed.
Also, the durability, cost, and the ease of repair of corded tools is UNMATCHED. So for workhorse tools, like skilsaws, sawalls, nailguns (pneumatic), vacuums, etc, I prefer corded. For impact drivers, drills, osc multitool, etc I prefer cordless.
Thanks for sharing.
hahahahahahahahahahahaha
Never considered time to come to a stop. Of course the battery tools will stop more quickly. Makes me think of bandsaws with cast iron wheels that spin for a long time after turning the tool off. The good ones have brakes on them. For sure this would be a safety factor. Thanks!
I swear my 16 inch band saw takes 5 minutes to stop.
You are welcome!
@@timrankin8737 but its very satisfying to listen to that hum continue on and on.
Not only safety, but less chance of damaging something. The angle grinder we have at home takes a long time for the blade to stop spinning. We have damaged our outside table and garage floor by putting the angle grinder down before the wheel stopped spinning.
Makita does make corded saws with an electric brake. This isn't exatly an apples to apples test.
I was afraid manufacturers would purposely under develop corded tools to sell us more batteries.
I mean the tests do show that. Not dramatically in cutting performance in most of these examples but all the quality of life and niceties are stripped out. Noise, vibration, breaks... But I'm not sure if I would blame them for trying to hit a price point. It's very likely that very very few people would buy a 250$ corded tool over a 300$ cordless one.
They probably would if they owned battery companies.
@@SquintyGears I prefer corded tools for some applications, but things like, drills and leaf blowers are better off cordless. But I hate batteries with a passion so the fact that I prefer cordless in some cases is impressive.
@@MrPicklesAndTea yeah i never got the point of having a cordless circular saw for myself. contractors would probably benefit from it on a job site. but if you only use it at home or in your workshop space, how would you ever benefit from having to charge batteries.
Awesome
Your jigs are amazing! I love all the work you put in, thankyou!
Thanks and you are welcome!
I lived in Europe where the normal household current is 220v 50hz. I remember the power tools there seemed a lot better than 120v tools. That would be an interesting comparison.
Thanks for the video idea.
Yes - 110-120v is very much a North-American and Japan thing, and elsewhere 220-240v is the most common supply voltage.
Ditto for Australia's 240v
slight misconception, there are 230v variants even in the us and you can have compliant 230v receptacles in your home too
Here in New Zealand my larger hand-held Makita corded circular saw is 2300watts running on 240volts.
Great comparison!
Something that makes a cordless drill better is the brake, even without anti-kickback they are more manageable if a bit binds up. I’ve got a corded Milwaukee that will put you into a death roll like an angry crocodile.
Lol. Me too with the Milwaukie. Enough torque to twist my arm right out of its socket if I'm not careful.
Thanks! Thanks for the feedback.
I have a big pipe on my triple reduction Milwaukee D handle HD drill. Because she's got a bit of torque to her.
but that corded drill will go all day not the battery ones and not as strong
My Milwaukee corded fuel about does the same thing, seems to be the nature of gear reduced high power drills.
Love these videos and how thorough you are testing every last thing. Most of which, I don’t even consider until you’ve done it. My request would be to see which brand/style of hot rod floor insulation performs best reducing heat transferred through the floor, and overall cabin noise and resonance. Brands such as Killmat, Hushmat, thermo tac, etc.. Thanks!
Thanks! Thanks for the suggestion.
HI, I greatly appreciate the amount of time, hard work, and science that is put into your videos! Thank you Project Farm! I wanted to ask, if you can make video about Collated Drywall Screwdriver. Thank you again
🖐🤓
Your channel is VERY IMPRESSIVE! Thanks.
Thanks so much!
Yup. Your closing statement says it all... if you are close to an outlet, corded is ok... but if away from an outlet, battery is best. Just like a desktop computer vs a notebook... corded is generally better, but cordless wins on mobility. If I could can buy only one tool, cordless is my first choice.
Also depends how long I'll be using the tool. The longer you use it, the weaker the battery gets, corded is better even when not close to an outlet if you plan to use it all day or even a lot of cuts/holes/grinding
Id much rather use a desktop computer
Batteries are expensive
@@svenjorgensenn8418 And toxic
eh completely depends on what you're doing. If it's a big job with access to power i'd never bother with battery tools (drills being the exception) You're not going to see battery powered miter and table saws at construction sites.
You're my go-to when I'm deciding what make/model of tool to buy. Thank you!
You are welcome!
Great video!
A lot will depend on which corded tool that you compare with the cordless tools. I worked my way through college as a framing carpenter and that job puts power tools to the limit. We used Skill 77 worm drive saws, Milwaukee sawzalls and Makita 3/4" hammer drills. The Skill 77 is a beast, but I would burn out a motor every couple of years. Today's cordless tools are very good, but they will not perform under jobsite conditions for framing houses nearly as well as corded tools. The problem is not their power, the problem is their durability. As you use a cordless tool under max load conditions, the batteries drain very quickly. Typically, the motors on the corded tools are faster and more powerful. This aids the durability of these tools during 110 degree days when my saw handle got so hot, I could barely stand to pick it up because it burned my hand. Cordless tools just cannot stand up to this type of abusive use. Their motors burn out more quickly and their batteries fail in very hot or very cold conditions. Construction personnel do use cordless tools on the job, but usually for light work and convenience.
Until new designs for more durable and powerful batteries enter the industry, corded tools will rule construction jobsites. For homeowners, cordless tools are fine and more convenient.
I have a Fein multi-tool that is corded and it is far more powerful than any cordless multitool I have ever used. Also, it doesn't lose power like cordless multitools. The same is true for corded Skill 77 worm drive saws. There is no cordless replacement for them. Milwaukee just came out with a cordless worm drive saw, but I can almost guarantee that it will not keep up with a corded Skill 77 saw over an eight hour day, weeks and months on end. Even as bulletproof as the Skill 77 is, we could go through several saws a year.
As battery technology improves the gap is closing between corded and cordless tools, but there is still a very wide gap in performance and durability. That will change over time and as you state in your video, for homeowner use, cordless tool are sufficient.
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
Love your tests! Have you ever considered testing wood chisels? Hard to find much out there comparing cheaper vs more expensive ones!
Thanks! Thanks for the video idea.
Looking at that Makita corded saw; it looks like R&D (and design updates) on it ended 20 year ago. The cordless model looks contemporary. I wonder if the corded saw would have done better if some of the new tech developed for the cordless saw had been applied to it too.
It seems the cordless ones, generally speaking, had more modern designs + bells & whistles.
Good point, cordless had brushless motor, corded had brushed... That is a big difference. Not sure if they make corded brushless saws.
yeah most of the corded ones were just straight up missing features the cordless ones had.
Thanks for he feedback.
There are some AC tools that have brushless motors.
But any tool manufacturer is going to R&D the shit out of cordless purely for the fact that the customer can come back and buy more tools that use the same battery.
Thank you for these tests, very useful info.
My go to channel for truthful and we'll executed tests!
Great comparison test, I notice that here in Australia most of the tradesmen on building sites are using cordless tools. However as an amateur I mostly use corded, being cheaper (and I don't use them every day) Love this site, great testing methods. Also love the gas can comparison test using Cousins Farmerbago. :-D
Thanks!
I've always said that there's nothing really to settle in this debate. You choose the tool that is appropriate for the job and accept that differences are there, and that they actually represent advantages instead of "this is better than that". Corded wood routers are more stable than their battery equivalents, battery tools are safer if there is a chance of the tool getting wet. Pick your battle.
Thanks for sharing.
I might have missed something, but I don't think routers were covered. Might be a good suggestion if they weren't.
@@kenfuciusfpv2800 Illustrative examples, nothing more. The principle applies.
@@TristanJCumpole well it seems that from Todd's tests things are decidedly better or worse than other things. It seems to be specific to which tools are being tested. Routers were not tested.
@@kenfuciusfpv2800 Unwind a bit! This is about corded vs cordless.
This has been a long awaited answer to my concerns regarding power tools. Always thought corded ones are tougher and better in performance but as the video concluded, is not always the case. Thanks for the great and informative video as always leaving no doubta behind.
Thanks and you are welcome!
It just always amazes me the creativity of the test that tend to be very real world use. Always receive a like on each video from me
Thanks so much!