Most battery yard tools work only with batteries from the same brand and voltage line, called a platform. Choosing a platform is a long-term decision: batteries and chargers are expensive, and staying within one platform lets you share them across tools. This guide explains how to compare platforms.
Understanding battery labels
Voltage
Voltage relates to how much power a tool system can deliver. Yard tool platforms commonly range from lower-voltage lines for light tools to higher-voltage lines for mowers, blowers and saws.
Be aware of labeling conventions. Some brands label batteries by their maximum voltage (for example, “20V max”) and others by nominal voltage (for example, “18V”). A battery labeled 20V max and one labeled 18V can be essentially the same cell configuration described in different ways. Compare like with like.
Amp-hours (Ah)
Amp-hours describe battery capacity. Within the same voltage, a higher Ah battery generally runs longer but is heavier and costs more.
Watt-hours (Wh)
Watt-hours combine voltage and capacity (volts × amp-hours) and give a better comparison of stored energy across platforms. Some manufacturers list it on the battery.
What to compare between platforms
- Tool range: does the platform include every tool you expect to need: mower, trimmer, blower, hedge trimmer, chainsaw or pole saw? Check what is available now, not what may come later.
- Battery sizes: smaller batteries keep handheld tools light; larger batteries run mowers and blowers longer.
- Chargers: charge times differ widely; rapid chargers cost more. Check the charging time for the battery sizes you will use.
- Battery availability and price: spare batteries are a significant ongoing cost.
- Warranty: battery warranty terms can differ from tool warranties.
- Power tool crossover: some brands share batteries between yard tools and workshop power tools, which helps if you already own their tools.
Matching platform to yard
| Yard and tasks | Platform considerations |
|---|---|
| Small yard, light trimming and cleanup | A lower-voltage platform you may already own for workshop tools can be enough |
| Medium yard with mowing | A higher-voltage yard platform with mid to large batteries |
| Large yard, heavy blowing or cutting | High-voltage platform, large batteries and at least one spare; consider whether gas or riding equipment is better |
Practical tips
- Plan your first two or three tools together; kits often bundle a battery and charger.
- Buy bare tools (without batteries) once you have enough batteries.
- Rotate batteries during big jobs: one charging while the other works.
- Store batteries indoors within the temperature range in the manual, partly charged if the manufacturer recommends it for long storage.
- Use only the manufacturer’s batteries and chargers. Third-party batteries can affect warranty coverage and safety.
Battery safety
- Do not use or charge damaged, swollen or wet batteries.
- Charge in a dry location away from flammable materials.
- Follow local rules for recycling lithium-ion batteries; do not put them in household trash.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use batteries from one brand in another brand’s tools?
Generally no. Batteries are designed for a brand’s own platform. Adapters exist but may void warranties and introduce safety risks.
Is higher voltage always better?
Higher-voltage platforms suit high-power tools like mowers and blowers. For light tools, a lower-voltage platform keeps weight and cost down.
