Battery platform: how do you choose the right interchangeable battery?
Difference between battery platforms
You can't automatically combine a battery and tool by the same brand. That's because some brands use multiple platforms to power their tools. For example, Makita has the CXT 12V Max and LXT 18V battery platform. The CXT 12V Max machines are light and compact. The LXT 18V machines are more powerful, but heavier and less compact too. Make sure to check which platform fits on your drill, jigsaw, or hedge trimmer.
Which battery platform should you choose?
The main difference between the battery platforms by the different brands are the number of tools that work on the battery platform. Decide which tools you want to use and choose a battery platform accordingly. Also think about how often you'll need the tools. Do you only use it occasionally? Choose the POWER FOR ALL 18V platform by Bosch DIY. Do you use it often or are you a professional? The Makita LXT 18V or the Bosch Professional 18V System is a good choice.
Choose the right voltage and amperage
The voltage of a battery should be the exact same as the volt class of the battery powered machine. So, a 18V battery goes with 18V tools and a 14.4V battery goes with 14.4V tools. Keep that in mind when you buy a separate machine. You can use the same battery for your lawn mower, sander, drill, or hedge trimmer as long as the voltage and battery platform are the same.