Voltage is the pressure that a device can handle; it is the power and torque of a tool. Choosing between 12, 18, and 20-volt tools can be difficult if you do not know the reason behind these volt powers; all tool brands manufacture tools with different voltage power for various reasons. These different volts make the tool more powerful from the other tools and are designed and built with features to do specific tasks more efficiently. Read the comparison of 12 Vs 18 Vs 20 Volt Tools to find out what voltage tool is the right one for you.
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Our Verdict
18-volt and 20-volt tools are very similar; they both are robust, have high torque, and are used for tasks that require more power compared to a 12-volt tool. A tool that is categorized as 18-volt in some places, the same tool in other places, will be organized under 20-volt, which is why having either tool is the best option because they work smoothly and efficiently. They are the tools you need for professional or semi-professional work.
12 Vs 18 Vs 20 Volt Tools: Comparison Chart
Specification | 12 V | 18 V | 20 V |
---|---|---|---|
Type | Cord and cordless | Cord and cordless | Cord and cordless |
Power | Less powerful | powerful | powerful |
Weight | Light-weight | Heavy | Heavy |
Used | Household work, DIY | Construction and other projects | Professionals |
Torque | Less | More | High |
12 Vs 18 Vs 20 Volt Tools: Differences
1. Power
The main difference between 12v, 18v, and 20v tools is their power; the higher the voltage of the tool means the more influential the tool is, so here the voltage is 12, 18, and 20 volts, indicating the 12v tool has less power compared to the 18 and 20-volt tools.
2. Weight
Another difference is the weight 12-volt tools are much lighter and are the perfect tools to use when working in tight-working spaces. In contrast, 18 and 20-volt tools are heavier and are used at open workspaces.
3. Size
18 and 20-volt tools have a bigger motor meaning bigger size, so the size of 12-volt tools is much smaller than 18 or 20 volt.
4. Torque
You should always go for a tool with higher torque, a 12 volt has less torque compared to 18 and 20volt; a 20volt has higher torque than an 18 volt.
5. Charging Time
The tool that will charge faster is the 12v tools since they have less capacity and less power, so if you are doing a project where you’ll need fast backup, then you should opt for 12volt in comparison an 18v, and 20v tool takes more time to charge.
6. Long-Lasting
12volt tools will not last long since they have minimal capacity compared to 18 and 20-volt tools; the 18 volt and 20-volt tools will last longer on a single charge.
7. Price
The more powerful, bulky the tool is, the more likely it is to be expensive, so when it comes to price, the 18 and 20volt tools are pricier than the 12volt tools.
12 Vs 18 Vs 20 Volt Tools: Similarities
1.Corded And Cordless Tools
You can get 12v, 18v, and 20volt tool in both corded and cordless form.
2. Professional Use
The 18v and 20v tools are very powerful and have high torque, which is needed when doing professional work, which is which tools with 18 and 20volts are recommended.
3. Design
The 18v and 20v are designed in the same way, they have battery cells that are arranged in a group series of 5 wired, these cells are connected through a wire in a parallel arrangement.
12 Vs 18 Vs 20 Volt Tools: Best Tools Available
Drills
Drills are potent tools that come in both corded and cordless form; they are used to drill through various soft and hard materials; a powerful drill makes any drilling job easy; this is the most common tool found in any construction site or any woodworkers garage, having the best drill is very important.
1. Dewalt 219861 18V Compact Drill
Features:
- The voltage is18 volt, it is a powerful tool.
- Compact.
- This tool delivers two speeds, one ranging from 0-450 and 1500 rmp.
- This tool is designed for the user’s comfort; the handle grip is soft.
- This tool is durable.
- This is a corded tool.
2. iBELL Cordless Drill Driver CD12-74
This is a 12-volt tool; it is perfect for light-weight work, beginners, home workers, and DIYers; it’s a professional low power tool.
Features:
- it has a dual speed of 350 RMP and 1400 RMP.
- It is compact and light-weight.
- This tool has 12-voltage.
- This tool is ideal to use for all drilling work.
- This tool can drill through wood, plastic, and other materials.
- It weighs around 7 pounds.
3. Dewalt 20V MAX Cordless Drill
- Brushless motor of cordless drill combo kit delivers up to 57% more runtime over brushed
- XR Lithium Ion batteries with fuel gauge in cordless tools combo kit provide 33% more capacity over standard packs
- DCD791 20V MAX* 1/2-inch Drill/Driver in the drill/ impact driver combo kit has a compact (6.9-inch front to back) and...
Features:
- This tool features a brushless motor.
- It has 57 percent more run time.
- This tool is designed to work in tight spaces; it is compact and light-weight.
- It comes with an LED-light.
- It is a 20-volt brushless drill ( compare it with brushed) .
- This item weighs 3.5pounds.
Impact Drivers
1. DeWalt 20V (DCF885C1)
- INCREASED VISIBILITY: Has built-in LED with 20-second delay after trigger release
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN: Compact (5.55 in. front to back)and lightweight (2.8 lbs) design fits into tight areas
- ONE-HANDED BIT LOADING: Has a 1/4 in. hex chuck and accepts 1 in. bit tips
This tool is designed to fit into tight spaces; many contractors work with this tool because of its weight and extra visibility.
Features:
- The voltage of this tool is 20volts.
- The power source is a 20-volt lithium-ion battery.
- This tool weighs 2.8 pounds.
- It has a built-in LED-light.
- It accepts one-inch bit tips.
- It is mighty.
2. Makita XDT16Z 18V
- Quick shift mode uses the Brushless motor’s electronic controls to find the best balance of speed and torque for each...
- BL Brushless motor delivers 3, 600 max RPM and 1, 600 inches pounds of max torque
- 4 speed power selection (0 1, 100/ 0 2, 100/ 0 3, 200/ 0 3, 600 RPM & 0 1, 100/ 0 2, 600/ 0 3, 600/ 0 3, 800 IPM)...
This tool is faster and more potent than many other tools; it is compact and the best in its category.
Features:
- The voltage of this tool is 18v.
- This tool features a 4-speed power selection.
- It has 3600 RMP max.
- It weighs 2.33 pounds.
- The source of the tool is battery-powered.
- The torque is 1600 inch-pounds.
3. Ridgid GEN5X R86035SB 18-Volt
- This refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes...
This is a cordless impact driver; it is an excellent tool used by many.
Features:
- It has an 18volt power.
- It weighs 3.3 pounds.
- It has 0 to 2000 pounds of torque.
- It is affordable.
- Comes with a battery indicator.
Nail Guns
Nail guns are fast and precise tools; they are designed to drive large nails consistently and accurately; they are effortless and easy to use.
The best nail guns in the market today.
1. Dewalt 20V MAX Cordless (DCN680D1)
- 100% battery powered. Eliminates the hassle of using gas, compressor, and hose
- Brushless motor maximizes runtime and durability
- Micro nose improves line of sight and accuracy of nail placement (Compared to DEWALT DC608)
Features:
- This tool weighs 6 pounds.
- It has a 20v.
- It is a cordless tool.
- It is battery powered.
- It has an LED-light.
2. Hitachi NT1850DE
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This tool is equipped with a brushless motor technology; it is compact, easy to use, and is capable of driving up to 1,650 nails per charge.
Features:
- This tool has 18v.
- It is a cordless tool.
- It has a brushless motor.
- This item weighs 7.3 pounds.
- It has a low battery indicator.
- This tool also comes with an LED-light.
3. Metabo HPT Cordless
- INCLUDED: NR1890DRS, Compact 3. 0Ah Lithium Ion Battery, Fast Charger, Contractor Bag, Safety Glasses
- CORDLESS FREEDOM: Pneumatic power with 18 volt cordless freedom
- FASTENERS: Accepts round head 21 degree plastic strip collated nails from 2 Inch up to 3-1/2 inch in length and (0.113...
Features:
- This is an 18v tool.
- This is a brushless motor tool.
- It is a cordless tool.
- It can drive up to 400 nails per charge.
- This item weighs about 10 pounds.
Sander Tools
Sander’s are powerful tools that are used to smooth surfaces; you attach the sandpaper, and this machine moves it rapidly and helps smoothen the material.
1. Dewalt DCW210N-XJ 18V XR BL Cordless Sander
Features
- 18v tool.
- Battery-powered.
- Brushless motor tool.
- High efficiency and power.
- Built-in dust extraction.
- 35mm adaptor extraction system.
2. DeWalt 20V MAX Orbital Sander, Tool (DCW210B)
- Brushless motor provides runtime and efficiency to get the job done
- Variable-speed control from 8,000 to 12,000 OPM to match the speed to the application.
- Low-profile height allows user to get close to work surface for precise sanding.
Features:
- Battery-powered.
- 20 volt.
- Long run time.
- Suitable for a cleanup.
3. DeWalt 20V MAX Random Orbital Sander Kit (DCW210P1)
- Orbital sander with brushless motor provides runtime and efficiency to get the job done
- Variable-speed control of the hand sander from 8,000 to 12,000 OPM to match the speed to the application.
- Low-profile height of the power sander allows user to get close to work surface for precise sanding.
Features:
- Fine grit.
- Battery-powered.
- Brushless motor.
- Weighs 5.6 pounds.
- Lithium-ion batteries
12 Vs 18 Vs 20 Volt Tool: Overview
Overview Of 12- volt.
12-volt tools are less powerful and fewer capacity tools; they are tools used to do easy, simple, less power requiring projects/tasks. These tools are straightforward to use and are made compact, which means that you can use these tools in tight areas.
Different brands sell 12volt tools, so the user has plenty of options to choose from. Since these tools are not very powerful, it does not take much time to change the battery of the tools.
- Easy to use
- Charges quickly
- Light-weight
- Affordable
- Cord and cordless
- Less powerful
- Not be used for high power work
- Low torque
Overview Of 18 Volt
18-volt tools are powerful, high torque tools used by many handymen, woodworkers, and construction workers. Tools with 18v are demanded because of their power; they are used to do professional and semi-professional work and are used on various hard and soft materials.
Tools with 18v are available in all tool brands. Some tools are heavier than the other and more expensive than other 18v tools; this is because of their design and additional features. In general 18-volt tools are heavier and costly than 12-volt tools.
- Powerful
- High torque
- Good speed
- Cord and cordless
- Used for professional work
- Costly
- Heavy
- Beginners can find this tool a little complex
Overview Of 20 Volt
20-volt tools are very similar to 18-volt tools; in some countries, a tool will be known as 18-volt, and in other, it will be known as 20-volt. 20-volt tools are potent, and they have high torque; this voltage in the tool Is becoming popular by the day.
The tools are compact, versatile, and durable. Different tool brands make various 20-volt tools. Serious, challenging projects will be done by using 20-volt tools.
- Power
- Speed
- Torque
- Tools come with LED-light
- Cord and cordless
- Costly
- Heavy
- Complex to use
- Not for beginners
FAQs
1. Are 12-volt tools useful?
es, 12-volt tools are handy tools. They are used by DIYers, home workers, and professionals, too; these tools are light-weight, affordable, and can be used in tight workspaces.
2. Is 20-volt better than 12-volt?
Aspects such as power, torque make 20-volt tools better than 12-volt; the 20-volt tools are used to do tough jobs, whereas when you compare based on price and weight, then the 12-volt tool is better because they are affordable and light-weight.
3. Where do I use 18-volt tools?
Work that requires high-power or if your working on rigid materials, then you should go for tools that have 18-volts.
Conclusion
An 18volt and 20volt battery tools have a similar capacity, so having either voltage power in your tool is good, but a 12volt tool is not as powerful and does not have high torque.
A 12volt tool is used to perform easy, small household, DIY projects, or tasks that do not require much power.So keep In mind the nature of your work when choosing between 12, 18, and 20-volt tools.
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