batteries plus stores
Making the Power Tool Battery Decision: NiMH vs. NiCad vs. Li-Ion
If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between NiMH vs. NiCad vs. LiIon you’re not alone – there are thousands of DIY home improvement types out there wondering the same thing as you, and wondering how to make the best decisions for their next power tool purchase.
Here’s a question you may be asking yourself: “What is the difference between NiMH and NiCd. How do Lithium Ion batteries work compared to the others?”
To tackle this question we have to look at the criteria for making the power tool battery decision. And then bring Lithium Ion into the equation to round out the choices when you’re next making a power tool purchase decision.
Read closely – your power as a consumer lies in your understanding of the products available!
Criteria for Making Your Power Tool Battery Decision
According to Building a Better Power-Tool Battery you should be looking at a battery’s run time, life cycle, volts and amp-hour rating.
Run Time:
Quite simply run time is the amount of work a tool can do before its charge runs out.
Life Cycle:
Life cycle is how many times the battery can be recharged during its life time.
Volts (Power):
Volts will determine work output of the tool. John Sara, cordless product manager for Milwaukee Electric Tool, says “Individuals currently using a 18-volt NiCad battery, should see 2 – 21/2 times more work output from a V28.”
Amp-Hour Rating
The higher the Amp-Hour rating the longer the battery lasts – be aware that power tool batteries of the same voltage will often have different Amp-Hour ratings.
NiMH vs. NiCad vs. Li Ion: Picking What’s Right for You
Nickel metal hydride (NiMH) Batteries:
I don’t think I could define it better than wiki pedia: ‘A nickel metal hydride battery, abbreviated NiMH, is a type of rechargeable battery similar to a nickel-cadmium (NiCd) battery but has a hydrogen-absorbing alloy for the anode instead of cadmium. Like in NiCd batteries, nickel is the cathode.’
Nickel metal hydride (NiMH) advantages:
– lighter than NiCad
– 2-3X capacity to equal size NiCad
Nickel metal hydride (NiMH) disadvantages:
– fewer life cycles compared to NiCad
– shorter run time
– performs the worst in cold temperatures, so keep that in mind if you plan to use tools powered by NiMH outdoors in cold weather
– higher self-discharge level than NiCad
– voltage drop at near-discharged levels
Nickel cadmium (NiCd) Batteries:
According to Wiki pedia: the ‘nickel-cadmium battery (commonly abbreviated NiCd and pronounced ‘nye-cad’) is a popular type of rechargeable battery for portable electronics and toys using the metals nickel (Ni) and cadmium (Cd) as the active chemicals.’
Nickel cadmium (NiCad) advantages:
– longer life cycles
– performs in cold temperatures (perform well to 20F)
– lower self-discharge level than NiMH
– no voltage drop at near discharged levels
Nickel cadmium (NiCad) disadvantages:
– Heavy, making it harder to use for longer periods of time
– May suffer from ‘Memory Effect’ or ‘False Bottom Effect’ if constantly discharged half-way and then recharged (wiki pedia)
The Lithium ion (Li-Ion) Battery:
The new comer to power tool batteries, Lithium Ion are hot because they have ‘one of the best energy-to-weight ratios, no memory effect and a slow loss of charge when not in use,’ according to Wiki pedia.
Lithium ion (Li-Ion) advantages:
– High performance in cold weather – to 0F – great for winter outdoor use
– Light weight. You can lift tools powered by Lithium Ion over your head all day.
– Increased life cycles over NiCad and NiMH, so it keeps going past other batteries
– more rapid charge times that get you back on the job more quickly
Lithium ion (Li-Ion) disadvantages:
– less tested than other battery formats – in early stages of development
– has a shelf life based on life of battery, not related to charge or charge time
– can sometimes erupt or explode in high heat – hot cars, direct sunlight, etc, or sometimes after tampering. a more dangerous battery than the others
– permanent damage to battery if stored at too-low discharge level, so be careful and keep these charged well
What battery is right for your power tool decision? Clearly there are many different options, and many different pluses and minuses for each battery type. That’s why it’s imperative that you come to your purchase prepared with knowledge that will help you make the right decision for your situation.
Plus you are certain to impress the guys at the big box tool depot when you display your knowledge about the different types of batteries and their different merits.
Now you know what to look for – life cycles, run time, volts and Amp-Hours and you know the three major battery types. I hope that with that information you’ll be better equipped to make the decision between a NiCD, NiMH or Li-Ion battery!
About the Author
Garrett French is the Editor for ToolCrib.com.
At www.ToolCrib.com you can find and compare tools, catch up on the latest topics and debates at the power tool blog and save tons of money on power tools by subscribing via rss or email to our power tool deal of the day.
|
|
EatSmart Precision Pro – Multifunction Digital Kitchen Scale w/ Extra Large LCD and 11 Lb. Capacity The EatSmart Precision Pro Digital Kitchen Scale is a versatile multifunction home appliance. Designed to be highly accurate and aesthetically pleasing, the Precision Pro is manufactured to the highest quality specifications. Weigh items up to 11 lbs quickly and accurately, with results displayed in four different units: grams / ounces / pounds / kilograms. For cooks – Weigh food items directly on… |
|
|
Presto 03510 FlipSide Belgian Waffle Maker $49.99 PRESTO 03510 WAFFLE MAKER BELGIAN 1350W. The professional-style rotating design bakes extra-thick Belgian waffles in minutes.The unique 180 flip design evenly spreads the batter for waffles with a crispy outside and fluffy, tender inside.Countdown timer and digital display signals when baking time is up.Easy to store! Dual function base locks in a vertical position for compact storage.1-year limit… |
|
|
Presto 04213 Electronic Digital Timer $4.49 Product Features. Electronic timer with LCD display shows minutes and seconds. Counts down from any time up to 99 minutes and 59 seconds. End-of-time alarm signal; memory function and stopwatch function. Versatile clip, magnet, and easel-stand options; requires 1 AAA battery. Measures 2-1/2 by 2-1/4 by 1/2 inches…. |
|
|
Panasonic TY-EW3D2MMK2 Ultimate 3D Starter Kit (Avatar 3D + 2 Rechargeable Glasses) $399.95 3D Ultimate Pack 3D Active Shutter EyewearApprox .088 lbsSize medium 3D Eyewear Headsize 23.6″ AroundRechargeable Battery for Repeated UseBuilt-in battery is charged using a USB terminalEasy to-operate slide switchMakes it easy to turn the power on and off3D Ultimate Pack includesOne Copy of AVATAR Blu-ray 3D Disc A PANASONIC EXCLUSIVEExperience Avatar in 3D at home!Two Pairs of Active Shutter 3D … |
|
|
Logitech Wireless Performance Mouse MX for PC and Mac $63.66 Darkfield Laser Tracking provides precise cursor control on virtually any surface even glass tables Micro USB cable charges mouse through puter or standard AC outlet even while in useTiny receiver stays in notebook and patible with additional wireless mouse or keyboard without multiple USB receiversSculpted right-hand shape designed to put hand in natural position for useHyper-fast scrolling gives… |
|
|
Apple iPad MC705LL/A (16GB, Wi-Fi, Black) NEWEST MODEL $499.00 Pick up the iPad and suddenly, it’s clear. You’re actually touching your photos, reading a book, playing the piano. Nothing comes between you and what you love. To make that hands-on experience even better, they made the fundamental elements of iPad better – the display, the camera, the wireless connection. All of which makes the third-generation iPad capable of so much more than you ever imagined… |
|
|
Apple iPad MD328LL/A (16GB, Wi-Fi, White) NEWEST MODEL $499.00 Pick up the iPad and suddenly, it’s clear. You’re actually touching your photos, reading a book, playing the piano. Nothing comes between you and what you love. To make that hands-on experience even better, they made the fundamental elements of iPad better – the display, the camera, the wireless connection. All of which makes the third-generation iPad capable of so much more than you ever imagined… |
|
|
Ortho 0165210 Malathion Plus Insect Spray Concentrate – 32 oz. $11.70 Concentrate. Excellent multi use insecticide. Controls a wide range of nuisance insects including mosquitoes. Can be used on ornamentals, roses, flowers, shrubs, trees, fruits, citrus, vegetables, and home foundation. Makes up to 96 gallon of diluted spray. Easy to apply with an Ortho Dial N Spray or a tank sprayer. 32 oz. bottle. Active: 50% Malathion…. |
|
|
LitterMaid Elite Mega Automatic Self-Cleaning Litter Box $199.99 ModernLitter Cleaner LitterMaid Elite Mega Limited Edition can add a new range of features and a modern sleek design to take automatic litter cleaning to a new level. The mega limited edition automatic litter cleaner automatically uses a durable steel rake to push the waste into a sealable container beneath the box after your pet has left. The cleaner is programmable so that you can program the bo… |
|
|
Kindle Touch 3G, Free 3G + Wi-Fi, 6 E Ink Display – includes Special Offers & Sponsored Screensavers $149.00 Top-of-the-line e-reader, with touch and free 3G wireless – Free 3G wireless, no annual contracts or monthly fees – Download books anywhere, no hunting for Wi-Fi hotspots – 3G wireless works globally – Most-advanced E Ink display, now with multi-touch – New sleek design – 8% lighter, 11% smaller, holds 3,000 books – Text-to-speech, plus audio books and mp3s – Massive book selection, over 800,000 t… |
|
|
2-Year SquareTrade Warranty plus Accident Protection for Kindle Fire, US customers only $44.99 … |
|
|
Kindle Keyboard 3G, Free 3G + Wi-Fi, 6 E Ink Display – includes Special Offers & Sponsored Screensavers $139.00 All-New, High-Contrast E Ink Screen -50% better contrast with latest E Ink Pearl technology Read in Bright Sunlight - No glare New and Improved Fonts - New crisper, darker fonts New Sleek Design - 21% smaller body while keeping the same 6 size reading area 15% Lighter - Only 8.7 ounces, weighs less than a paperback Battery Life of One Month - A single charge lasts up … |
|
|
Nike+ Stand Alone Sensor Kit $18.00 This wireless sensor works with your iPod nano or iPod touch (2nd generation) to track your workouts. Insert it into the built-in pocket beneath the insole of your Nike+ shoe and pair it with your existing Nike + iPod receiver attached to your iPod nano. This sensor is perfect as a replacement for a sensor that has been lost or has exhausted its battery. Or it’s great if you want to have a sensor … |
|
|
Bose® travel bag for SoundDock Portable $25.00 Stores and protects your Bose® digital music system in transit…. |
|
|
AmazonBasics Netbook Bag with Handle, Fits 7- to 10-Inch Netbooks, iPad, HP Touchpad (Black) $10.78 Convenient, comfortable, and easy to carry, the AmazonBasics Netbook Bag is a slim case designed to protect your electronics. Featuring a durable, weather-resistant Neoprene cover, this netbook bag helps cushion and protect mini laptops, netbooks, DVD players, Amazon Kindle, and more. Its customized design and padded handles let you tote your electronic device comfortably so it’s ideal for student… |
|
|
LeapFrog LeapPad Explorer (Green) $90.00 Introducing LeapPad Explorer, the personalized learning tablet just for kids. A built-in camera/video recorder, 100+ games and activities and innovative creativity and reading apps offer limitless learning and endless ways to play.Features include: •A broad curriculum that goes beyond school skills•A built-in camera and video recorder•Skill levels that automatically adjust to each c… |
|
|
LeapFrog LeapPad Explorer (Pink) $89.97 Introducing LeapPad Explorer, the personalized learning tablet just for kids. A built-in camera/video recorder, 100+ games and activities and innovative creativity and reading apps offer limitless learning and endless ways to play.Features include: •A broad curriculum that goes beyond school skills•A built-in camera and video recorder•Skill levels that automatically adjust to each c… |
|
|
Intex 110 – 120 Volt AC Quick-fill Electric Pump $12.99 Intex 120V AC Quickfill Pump inflates and deflates! This inflation pump’s vacuum function will allow you to draw nearly all the air out of an inflatable. This will result in a much smaller deflated item that is easier to pack and leaves you more storage space…. |
|
|
Battery Tender 021-0123 Battery Tender Junior 12V Battery Charger $19.35 If the battery in your motorcycle is difficult to get to, Battery Tender has the answer with the quick disconnect and a 12 foot cord. Bolt on one side to the battery and leave it there for convenient use when you need it. A complete 4-step charging program that includes initialization, bulk charge, absorption mode, and float mode will ensure the best maintenance for your motorcycle’s battery. The … |
|
|
New Trent iCruiser IMP1000 11000mAh External Battery Pack and Charger for The new iPad the 3rd Gen ipad, iPad2, iPhone 4S 4 3Gs 3G, iPod Touch (1G to 5G), Android (Samsung Galaxy Note S S2, HTC Sensation EVO Thunderbolt, LG Optimus V), Blackberry (Bold curve Torch), Droid(Motorola Razr), Plus Major Tablet PCs with 5V input (Samsung, Blackberry, HTC) etc $76.95 This is the 4th Generation USB power bank for the latest iPad 3 “the new ipad” and iPad 2. It will never let your smart phones and Tablet PCs run out of battery. This compact and ultra long-lasting backup battery will be your perfect power solution on the go. When you travel, there’s no need to charge your devices through an electrical outlet, the iCruiser IMP1000 is the ultimate power source! N… |
|
|
Battery Tender Plus Charger $64.95 Battery Tender Plus Charger The Battery Tender Plus is a 1.25 amp battery charger designed to fully charge a battery and maintain it at proper storage voltage without the damaging effects caused by trickle chargers. Included is a quick connect harness for hard to reach areas. Features Temperature compensated to ensure optimum charge voltage according to ambient temperatureAutomatically swit… |
|
|
TI-84 Plus Graphing Calculator for Dummies $8.87 If you have a T1-84 Plus Graphing Calculator, you have a powerful, sophisticated tool for advanced math. In fact, itâs so sophisticated that you may not know how to take advantage of many of its features and functions. Thatâs a good problem to have, and TI-84 Plus Graphing Calculator For Dummies is the right solution! It takes the TI-84 Plus to the next power, showing you how to:Display … |
|
|
EatSmart Precision Pro – Multifunction Digital Kitchen Scale w/ Extra Large LCD and 11 Lb. Capacity The EatSmart Precision Pro Digital Kitchen Scale is a versatile multifunction home appliance. Designed to be highly accurate and aesthetically pleasing, the Precision Pro is manufactured to the highest quality specifications. Weigh items up to 11 lbs quickly and accurately, with results displayed in four different units: grams / ounces / pounds / kilograms. For cooks – Weigh food items directly on… |
|
|
Presto 03510 FlipSide Belgian Waffle Maker $49.99 PRESTO 03510 WAFFLE MAKER BELGIAN 1350W. The professional-style rotating design bakes extra-thick Belgian waffles in minutes.The unique 180 flip design evenly spreads the batter for waffles with a crispy outside and fluffy, tender inside.Countdown timer and digital display signals when baking time is up.Easy to store! Dual function base locks in a vertical position for compact storage.1-year limit… |
|
|
Presto 04213 Electronic Digital Timer $4.49 Product Features. Electronic timer with LCD display shows minutes and seconds. Counts down from any time up to 99 minutes and 59 seconds. End-of-time alarm signal; memory function and stopwatch function. Versatile clip, magnet, and easel-stand options; requires 1 AAA battery. Measures 2-1/2 by 2-1/4 by 1/2 inches…. |
|
|
Contech CRO101 Scarecrow Motion Activated Sprinkler $59.99 The Contech Electronics Scarecrow Motion-Activated Sprinkler presents an innovative, humane way to keep pets and wildlife from disturbing your yard and garden without the use of complicated traps or potentially hazardous chemicals. The sprinkler combines a surprise spray of water with unexpected motion and noise to create a safe, effective deterrent to unwanted visitors, helping keep your garden l… |
|
|
Belkin Mini Surge Protector Dual USB Charger $13.30 Protect your electronic devices while traveling…. |
|
|
Howard Leight R-01526 Impact Sport Electronic Earmuff $73.23 To capture low level sound, the Impact Sport employs built-in microphones that amplify range commands and other important sounds. Users enjoy full, clear directional hearing in stereo. For protection, the Impact Sport actively listens and automatically shuts off amplification whenever harmful sound levels are reached. The earmuffs effectively block any noise, continuous or impulse, of 82dB or more… |
|
|
Panasonic TY-EW3D2MMK2 Ultimate 3D Starter Kit (Avatar 3D + 2 Rechargeable Glasses) $399.95 3D Ultimate Pack 3D Active Shutter EyewearApprox .088 lbsSize medium 3D Eyewear Headsize 23.6″ AroundRechargeable Battery for Repeated UseBuilt-in battery is charged using a USB terminalEasy to-operate slide switchMakes it easy to turn the power on and off3D Ultimate Pack includesOne Copy of AVATAR Blu-ray 3D Disc A PANASONIC EXCLUSIVEExperience Avatar in 3D at home!Two Pairs of Active Shutter 3D … |
