Cordless Tool: Corded Versus Cordless - The Benefits and Disadvantages of Corded and Cordless Power Tools

Innovations across the power tool industry have improved the durability, strength and maneuverability of both corded and cordless power tools. Cordless equipment, it seems, is becoming vastly more popular as battery and motor technologies continue to improve. New developments like Lithium-Ion battery technology has upped the ante for battery powered tools, but other innovations have certainly not left corded power tools in the dust. New advancements in corded power equipment designs have made corded tools, once cumbersome and lumbering, lighter weight and far easier to handle. Corded power tools still offer unrivaled power and performance, and generally have a longer life-span; when picking a tool, however, it is still not an easy choice as cordless equipment offers compact ergonomics and superior mobility.

Cordless Tool

It's important to consider a few things before deciding which tool best suits you and your needs. The type of job and intensity of applications, the materials you intend to manipulate, and how often you will use your power tools are all factors in choosing between cordless and corded.

Cordless Tool

"So, what are the benefits of cordless tools?" you ask. Well, I'll tell you. Cordless power tools allow craftsmen to take their equipment to the job rather than bringing work back to their tools; bringing work back to the shop or a stable power source can be a frustrating chore if not wholly impossible. Battery powered tools offer superior convenience and portability, and with greater advancements in battery technology and tool design, cordless equipment now has more power, less weight, and a longer run-time than ever before. Another striking benefit of using cordless power tools is, well, they're cordless! Lugging and dragging around heavy cords can not only be a hassle but a hazard as well. For this reason, battery powered equipment also tends to be easier to store and transport. Cordless tools are ideal for home use and for use in high-traffic areas where cords can present a bigger safety hazard. Additionally, these cord-free tools are absolutely essential when working in unfinished constructions where, perhaps, there is no electrical power source available. However, it's not all sunshine while working cordless, although their convenience is unmatched, they can't offer the constant high power that corded tools can. Battery powered equipment are less powerful to begin with and most (excluding those using Lithium-Ion batteries) lose power continuously as you work. Unlike corded, cordless power tools have a limited power source and rely on a fully charged battery to run efficiently. Working cordless also tends to be a bit heavier, and batteries can be expensive to replace.

Intrigued, you now ask, "Ah, so what then are the advantages of using corded tools?" Well, let me tell you. Working corded offers significantly more power and a constant, non-dwindling power source for continuous run-time. Corded tools offer a wider variety for more diverse applications and deliver the highest-performance for the most heavy-duty jobs. Corded equipment allows users to perform without stops ensuring projects are completed without the hassle of changing and charging batteries. Because of their superior power and nonstop performance, working corded is ideal for heavier construction jobs. They also tend to be less expensive - and you'll never have to replace a pricey battery either. Cordless tools are a stronger, more durable tool and are essential where jobs require constant and superior power. Corded equipment provides unmatched power and deliver the most professional results to even the heaviest, heartiest, beefiest applications. On the other hand, while corded power tools don't require battery replacements, they do have that lumbering cord; that heavy, fraying cord requires replacement as often as a battery does. While cords are generally less expensive to replace, they are much more frustrating and time consuming. Power cords present more problems than simply fraying or failing altogether - cords are dangerous; they present a serious electrical hazard, and are fairly easy to trip over. Corded equipment also has limited mobility, and as its generally recommended to avoid using extension cords (which present an additional safety hazard) corded tools shouldn't go too far from the power source they're drawing from.

When choosing a tool, it is crucial to consider the capacities of of both corded and cordless types. Each offers different advantages to suit different demands and applications. Know the type of jobs you expect to perform, the type of materials you'll be working with, and consider how often you'll be firing up your tools - knowing these three things should help you choose precisely which tool, corded or cordless, will be your best companion on the job.

Corded Versus Cordless - The Benefits and Disadvantages of Corded and Cordless Power Tools

Cordless Tool

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Bare-Tool Makita BJR182Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only, No Battery) Feature

Variable-speed D35 high-torque motor delivers 0-2,900 strokes per minute
1-1/8-inch length stroke for faster cutting and maximum productivity
Compact design at 17-3/4 inches long and 7.7-pound weight for reduced operator fatigue
Includes features such as tool-less blade change and shoe adjustments
Tool backed by three-year warranty

Bare-Tool Makita BJR182Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only, No Battery) Overview

LXT Lithium_ion battery and optimum charging system produces 280% total lifetime work with 2x more cycles. Makita built, D35 high torque motor delivers 50% faster cutting with a 1-1/8" stroke that cuts 2,900 SPM. Compact design at only 17-3/4" length and weighs only 8.1 lbs. for less operator fatigue. Ergonomic shape fits like a glove with even pressure and easy control. One-handed, fast tool-less blade changes and shoe adjustments. Two-piece armature and field along with externally accessible brushes for serviceability and longer motor life. 3-year warranty on tool and 1-year warranty on battery

Bare-Tool Makita BJR182Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only, No Battery) Specifications

Makita's 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Reciprocating Saw delivers faster cutting and demolition performance to the jobsite. The BJR182Z has a high-torque motor with a 1-1/8-inch stroke that is engineered for a range of cutting and demolition tasks. The LXT Lithium-Ion Battery (sold separately) makes this reciprocating saw perfect for remote use, where running a cord is not an option.

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BJR182Z Features

SPEED - 50% faster cutting from 2,900 SPM (1-1/8" stroke)

CONVENIENCE - "Tool-less" blade change and shoe adjustments

COMFORT - Less weight with comfortable ergonomic grip

PERFORMANCE - LXT Li-Ion batteries charge in 30 minutes, run longer and deliver 2.5X more cycles

Battery and charger not included

Tool Specifications

Length of stroke	1-1/8"
Max. cutting depth	Pipe (5-1/8"), Wood (10")
Strokes per minute	0-2,900 SPM
Battery	18V LXT Lithium-Ion
Overall length	17-3/4"
Net weight	7.7 lbs. (w/battery)

Makita-Built Motor Engineered for Versatile Power
The BJR182Z features a Makita-built high-torque motor with a 1-1/8-inch stroke that cuts 0-2,900 strokes per minute (SPM) for faster cutting. The BJR182Z has a maximum cutting depth of 5-1/8 inches for pipe, and 10 inches into wood (using a 12-inch blade). The BJR182Z also features an electric brake for productivity.

Ergonomic Design in a Compact Size
The BJR182Z weighs just 7.7 pounds (with battery, sold separately) with a more compact design at 17-3/4 inches long and an ergonomic shape that fits like a glove for reduced operator fatigue.

Versatile Design for a Range of Applications
The BJR182Z is engineered for the pro that wants more features, and is perfect for a range of applications including plumbing, flooring, electrical, demolition, and for general contractors who require a best-in-class engineered cordless reciprocating saw. The BJR182Z is just another example of Makita's commitment to innovative technology and best-in-class engineering.

About Makita's 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Tool Series
As one of the pioneers driving the cordless tool revolution, Makita changed the game with its breakthrough 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Series. Three years after its debut, Makita's LXT Series has grown from seven to over 35 tools, providing a wide range of cordless solutions for professional tradesmen. Makita also added 18V Compact Lithium-Ion for cordless power in a more compact size.

About Makita
Makita is a worldwide manufacturer of industrial quality power tools, and offers a wide range of industrial accessories. Makita applies leading-edge innovation to produce tools that are stronger, lighter, more powerful and easier to use. Makita USA, Inc. is located in La Mirada, California, and operates an extensive distribution network located throughout the U.S. For more information, please call 800/4-MAKITA (800/462-5482) or visit the website at makitatools.com. Makita is Best in Class Engineering.

Warranty
Every Makita Lithium-Ion tool is backed by Makita's 3-Year Warranty that covers repair due to defects in materials or workmanship up to three years from the date of original purchase. Makita Lithium-Ion batteries and chargers have a limited 1-year warranty. Please see makitatools.com for complete details.