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When it comes to diving into the world of power tools, one must know how battery voltages influence tool performance. In this article, we will highlight the disparities between DeWalt’s 20V vs. 60V battery platforms. As either a professional contractor or do-it-yourselfer, determining which voltage level for your batteries can have profound effects on how efficiently and successfully you complete your projects. Power output, performance and versatility are the main differentiators among these two battery types that I will show you how to distinguish in order to help you make a wise choice suited for your specific tool requirements.
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What’s the Difference Between 20V and 60V?
When comparing DeWalt’s 20V and 60V battery systems, the key differences lie in their power output, performance, and versatility. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right battery for your tools and tasks.
Power and Performance
- Handling Heavier Loads: The 60V batteries are specifically designed to handle heavier loads, making them ideal for more demanding tasks. This capability allows them to run tools that require more power without overheating or losing efficiency
- Cooler Operation: Due to their higher voltage and design, 60V batteries can operate cooler under heavy use compared to 20V batteries. This feature is crucial for maintaining the longevity and performance of both the battery and the tool it powers
- Versatility: A significant advantage of the 60V battery is its versatility. It can power not only 60V tools but also 20V tools, providing users with a flexible power solution. In some cases, two 60V batteries can be combined to power a 120V tool, further extending their usability across different tool requirements.
Is 60V More Powerful Than 20V?
When comparing DeWalt’s 20V and 60V battery platforms, it’s clear that 60V is more powerful than 20V. This difference in power affects both the load the batteries can handle and their efficiency during heavy use.
- Handling More Load: The 60V batteries are designed to manage heavier loads, which is crucial for running high-demand tools and applications. This makes them suitable for more intensive tasks where a robust power supply is necessary.
- Increased Efficiency: Under heavy use, 60V batteries maintain better efficiency. This efficiency translates to longer run times and more consistent power output, which is essential for professional-grade tools and demanding projects.
Can I Use a 60V Battery in a 20V Tool?
When it comes to using a 60V battery in a 20V tool, there are specific considerations to keep in mind regarding compatibility and safety. Here’s a detailed look at these aspects:
Compatibility
The DeWalt FlexVolt system is designed to allow some level of interchangeability between different voltage tools and batteries. This system enables a 60V battery to be used in 20V tools by automatically adjusting the battery’s output voltage to match the tool’s requirement. This means that when you insert a 60V FlexVolt battery into a 20V tool, the battery will step down its voltage to 20V, ensuring the tool operates safely and effectively
Safety
While the FlexVolt system does provide the flexibility of using a 60V battery in a 20V tool, it is crucial to adhere to manufacturer guidelines. DeWalt specifically designs these batteries to be compatible, but this might not be the case with all brands or models. Using a battery not intended for a specific tool can lead to potential risks such as damaging the tool, reducing its performance, or even safety hazards.
Key Point: Always use the battery as recommended by the tool’s manufacturer to avoid any issues. The FlexVolt technology is a great innovation that offers versatility, but it is designed to work within specified limits to ensure safety and tool integrity.
Can You Charge a 60V FlexVolt Battery on a 20V Charger?
When it comes to charging DeWalt FlexVolt batteries, there is often confusion about the compatibility between different voltages of batteries and chargers. Here’s what you need to know about charging a 60V FlexVolt battery using a 20V charger.
Charging Flexibility
DeWalt has designed their FlexVolt battery system with versatility in mind. A 60V FlexVolt battery can indeed be charged using a 20V charger. This is possible because DeWalt does not produce a separate 60V charger; instead, their 20V chargers are capable of charging the FlexVolt batteries. The batteries are structured with multiple cell banks that can be charged at 20V, and then configured in series to deliver 60V when used in a tool requiring higher voltage.
Key Point: You can safely charge a 60V FlexVolt battery with a DeWalt 20V charger, as the batteries and chargers are designed to be compatible across the FlexVolt range. This design allows for ease of use and flexibility, ensuring that users can charge their batteries with the chargers they have on hand, without needing multiple different chargers for different voltage batteries.
Summary
Choosing between a 20V and a 60V battery largely depends on your tool requirements and the nature of your work. Higher voltage batteries like the 60V offer more power and are suitable for more intensive tasks, while 20V batteries are adequate for regular, lighter duties. Always ensure compatibility and follow manufacturer guidelines to maintain tool efficiency and longevity.