When choosing cordless tool such as a cordless screwdriver or drill, it's important to understand what type of battery comes with it and which one is better for your needs. Not all cordless batteries are created equal and depending on how you plan on using your cordless tools, it could mean the difference of regularly buying expensive replacement batteries or having a set last for years.

Li-ion vs NiCad - Which one is better?

lithium ion vs nicad batteries

Bosch Lithium Ion Batteries

It's not so much a "which one is better" argument as it is a "which one is better for your intended use" question.

To begin with, let's look at the differences between NiCad batteries vs Lithium Ion batteries (Li-ion). They've been around quite a while. Lithium ion batteries are slowly taking the place of NiCad's due to several reasons.

First, NiCad batteries are generally heavier than Li-ion batteries. This may not mean much if you're an occasional user, but if you work every day with a cordless tool in your hands, the weight can add up really quick.

Second, NiCad's have a memory. In case you didn't know it, you're suppose to fully discharge the NiCad batteries before charging. And when you do recharge, you're suppose to recharge them fully. On the other hand, Li-ions aren't nearly as sensitive about how they are recharged. If you're battery is only half charged and you need to use it, go ahead. If you don't run it completely down before you recharge, not a problem!

Lithium-ion batteries also tend to go longer between charges than NiCad's. This can be a huge factor if you use your tools to make a living with.

Li-Ion batteries are also more environmentally friendly. The Cadmium used in NiCad batteries must be recycled properly to prevent possible damage to the envrionment.

nicad vs lithium ion batteries which is better

DeWalt NiCad Batteries

Some people say that the sudden stoppage of the tool when a Li-ion battery is dead is a Con. I don't think so. A NiCad slowly discharges when it's about dead, this results in your tool getting slower and slower which means you'll struggle with it a while before replacing the battery. When my tool goes dead instantly because the Li-ion is dead, I have no problem reaching for a fully recharged battery.

That's another difference between NiCad and Lithium Ion batteries. Typically an Li-ion battery can be fully recharged in about 30 minutes. It'll take an hour or more for most NiCad's.

Others will point out that Lithium-Ion batteries are more expensive than NiCads. And they're right. But since Li-ions usually last a lot longer than NiCad's, I'd say any cost are negligible. In fact, in the long run you may even save money with Li-ion batteries.

Which Battery Type is Right For Me?

For the life of me, I can't really see a instance where NiCad's would have much of a real world advantage over Li-ions. Whether you're a Contractor who uses their tool every day, or a DIY'er who's cordless tools may only see some use on the weekends, a lithium ion battery powered tool gives you much more advantages over NiCad battery powered tools in my opinion. In fact, due to the NiCads finicky battery recharging habits, I'd go as far as saying that if you're cordless tool battery sits more than it's used, then you'd definitely be money ahead with a lithium-ion battery!

Save money on the best replacement batteries for cordless tools. Use the links below to find the replacement batteries for your cordless tool.

Find Your NiCad Replacement Batteries Here

Find Your Lithion Ion Replacement Batteries Here