Low-priced power tools

However, that's not always the case. It wouldn't be fair to say that inferior tools are included, but specification and sizes may not be what you expect. Don't rely on what you think you can see in a picture.

Check the actual figures. Images of the product can be misleading. Normally when we review a range of products we can give a good idea of the price you'll pay. However, because of the enormous variety available, that's almost impossible with power tool sets.

The main reason to buy a power tool set has to be to save money. Otherwise it would make more sense to buy each item individually. The price you pay will depend on the number of items in the kit, and the brand. Brands like Hitachi and Porter-Cable are trusted for their mid-range equipment. DeWalt tools are the professional option.

If you can find like-for-like to make a comparison, you'll probably see a spread of a couple of hundred dollars between budget cordless tool sets and premium alternatives. A case or tool bag is always a good idea, and even more so with a kit of tools that you want to keep together.

There are the tools you need, and those you don't! It's tempting to buy a big set — and they provide great value — but if you end up with a couple tools you'll never use, you might have spent more money than you needed to.

Given the choice, always buy fewer tools, of better quality. A big advantage with some power tool sets is the inclusion of two batteries — one can be charging while you carry on working.

It's not true of all combos though, so you might want to consider the price of an additional battery when making your decision. Is there much difference between 18V and 20V batteries? Those manufacturers who quote 20 volts are typically stating peak power. When running normally — which is almost all the time — these batteries supply closer to 18 volts. When comparing battery power, you want as many amp hours Ah as possible — this maintains power for longer durations.

Check the anticipated run time and recharging time to get an overall picture. Do interchangeable heads deliver the same performance as stand-alone tools? There's no reason why they shouldn't, but there's a proviso. We would expect an interchangeable tool set to be as good as individual tools from the same manufacturer. That's not the same as saying a budget model — whether stand-alone or one with swappable heads — is as good as a professional-grade tool.

What's the difference between a reciprocating saw, a tiger saw and a sawzall? None really. They're all names used by different manufacturers for the same type of saw. It's a very handy tool. You can cut a variety of materials just by changing the blade.

As with any cordless tools, true capabilities are closely related to the power available. BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers.

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Simple Yet Solid Bottom Line. Streamlined Set Bottom Line. Click here for testing insights. Models Considered. Consumers Consulted. Hours Researched. Updated November Written by Bob Beacham. Table of Contents Buying guide for best power tool sets Why buy a power tool set? Choosing your power tool set What should be included in your power tool set? A note about tool specification How much do good power tool sets cost?

Tips FAQ. Buying guide for best power tool sets There are many excellent cordless power tool sets on the market, designed to meet the needs of everyone from keen amateur to full-time pro. There may be tools in the set that you've never used before. If possible, practice with them on a piece of scrap. Get used to them before committing to the real job. Some tool sets include consumables, like drill bits and saw blades. This is a nice addition, especially if you're giving a power tool set as a gift.

Everything the recipient needs to get started is there in the kit. Whatever work you're doing with your power tools, get into the habit of always wearing goggles or safety glasses. Battery technology changes rapidly. They may not be compatible, even if they look the same.

Warranties could be seen as an indicator of how much confidence a manufacturer has in its tools. One year is a minimum. Some offer three or more. Other Products We Considered. The BestReviews editorial team researches hundreds of products based on consumer reviews, brand quality, and value. We then choose a shorter list for in-depth research and testing before finalizing our top picks. These are the products we considered that ultimately didn't make our top 5. Home Products Power Tools.

Filters: Results Clear All. Average Rating. Power Source. Product Features. Batteries Included. Battery Platform. Filters: Results. Estimates For. Zip Code. Combo Kit. Angle Grinder. Angle Grinder with Paddle Switch. Corded Rotary Hammer. Circular Saw. SDS-plus Rotary Hammer.