In general, it is not easy to choose between cordless and corded tools for our home improvement project. However, there are some obvious things that we should consider. We know that corded tools must be continuously tethered and users could be stuck to within a specified radius form the power outlet and a bit more with extension cord. However, using excessively long cord could stress the tool due increasingly unstable electrical supply. So, not only corded tools limit our mobility, the cord itself could represent a safety hazard.
People who use corded tools are more likely to suffer from tripping and electrical injuries. Cord should be rearranged after we stop working and this will require more time. In general, corded tools can be quite inconvenient and awkward to use.
However, corded tools are useful if we are working in an enclosed space. We will have a non-depleting, constant power source and it will have a big impact on our productivity. In general, due to the better electrical supply, corded tools are often rated at higher power and they are more powerful and durable. Corded power tools are usually lighter, because it doesn’t have an additional compartment for battery and other power sources.
By staying light, corded power tools are more convenient to use and it can be made more durable. Often we could find that corded tools are more affordable than cordless ones. High-power, heavy-duty power tools often have corded design, which require continuous power supply and brute strength.
When we are planning to purchase a cordless power tool, we should consider their drawbacks as well. As an example, cordless tools don’t have a continuous power supply. The battery could be used only for a shorter period of time and with those embedded power packs, cordless tools are usually heavier and bulkier. Power tools with Lithium Ion batteries are generally lighter, but they are often more expensive. Any owner of cordless power tools would sometimes find that they can’t use the tools because the power is depleted.
More affordable cordless power tools usually have NiMH or NiCad batteries, but they are often bulkier. It should be noted that batteries in our tools will lose power gradually and we will eventually need to replace them.
On the other hand, cordless tools could give us unmatched mobility and we should be able to move from one area to another in our home. We could clamour up and down the ladder without much less risks and we could do it faster. There are obviously some issues with battery power, but newer models usually have lighter and longer-lasting batteries. Cordless tools can be used in areas where power sockets are not available. That’s the reason why even construction professionals rely on cordless power tools to complete specific tasks in more difficult areas. When choosing cordless tools, we should make sure that the batteries are replaceable and interchangeable.
In all, we may consider buying both the cordless and corded power tools if we really need them.
