The first cordless kit you buy decides a lot more than you think. Two batteries and a charger turn into six batteries, two chargers and a dozen bare tools, and by then switching brands means starting again. That’s why the battery platform is the real decision, not the drill.
This guide compares the four 18V platforms most Australian tradies choose between, explains what volts and amp hours mean in practice, and covers warranty and battery safety. It’s based on Ryobi, Makita and DeWalt Australian product pages, Milwaukee and DeWalt warranty terms, and the ACCC’s lithium-ion safety guidance, checked in October 2026. We haven’t run battery life tests, so we don’t claim one brand lasts longer than another.
For drill brands and warranty periods, see our cordless drill brands comparison.
The four main 18V platforms
| Platform | What the maker says | Bigger sibling | Typical buyer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee M18 | Large trade range, plus the compact M12 system | MX Fuel for equipment | Commercial and trade users |
| Makita 18V LXT | Over 280 products in Australia, some tools run on two batteries as 36V | 40V XGT (separate batteries) | Trade and serious DIY |
| DeWalt 18V XR | 54V FLEXVOLT batteries switch to 18V in XR tools | 54V FLEXVOLT tools | Trade users needing high output tools |
| Ryobi 18V ONE+ | Over 200 products, system since 1996, works with older ONE+ tools | Separate higher voltage ranges | Home users and light trade |
All four are big systems. The differences that matter are which specific tools you need (a particular nailer, press tool or pipe threader), how much you’ll pay over time, and what warranty you get through authorised sellers.
Milwaukee M18 and M12
Milwaukee runs two main cordless systems: M18 for full size tools and M12 for compact tools such as small drivers, cutters and inspection gear. They use different batteries. Many electricians and plumbers end up with both, using M12 for close-in work.
Milwaukee Australia says its warranty isn’t valid for products bought from non-authorised websites such as Amazon and eBay. Buy tools and batteries through authorised dealers.
Makita 18V LXT and 40V XGT
Makita Australia lists over 280 products in its LXT 18V range. Some LXT tools take two 18V batteries to run at 36V, which lets you use bigger tools without leaving the platform. Makita also has a separate 40V XGT platform, with its own batteries, aimed at heavier tools. LXT and XGT batteries are not interchangeable.
DeWalt 18V XR and FLEXVOLT
DeWalt’s main trade platform is 18V XR. Its 54V FLEXVOLT batteries automatically switch voltage, so they run both 54V FLEXVOLT tools and the 18V XR range. That means one battery type can run heavier tools such as large saws as well as everyday drills.
Ryobi 18V ONE+
Ryobi Australia says its 18V ONE+ batteries are compatible with more than 200 ONE+ products, and the system has been running since 1996, with newer batteries working in older ONE+ tools. Ryobi is sold in Australia through Bunnings and is popular with home users, maintenance trades and as a budget second kit.
Volts and amp hours, in plain English
- Volts (V) roughly indicate the power class of the platform. Most trade tools are 18V; bigger tools use 36V, 40V or 54V.
- Amp hours (Ah) measure how much energy a battery stores. A 5Ah battery stores more energy than a 2Ah battery, so it runs longer under the same load, but it’s heavier.
- Compact batteries (around 2Ah) suit overhead work and drivers. High capacity batteries (5Ah and up) suit saws, grinders and all day work.
A common setup is two compact batteries for drivers and two high capacity batteries for saws and grinders.
The real cost: batteries over time
Once you own batteries, you can buy bare tools (no battery or charger), which cost less than kits. Over a few years, much of your spend goes on bare tools and extra batteries. When you compare platforms, price:
- the kit you’d start with
- the bare tools you’ll need in the next two years
- a spare high capacity battery
Kit promotions and bonus battery offers come up regularly, so it can pay to time purchases.
Accessories on Amazon Australia
Affiliate links (paid links). Open Amazon in a new tab. For accessories only: buy tools and batteries from an authorised dealer to keep the warranty.
Battery safety
Lithium-ion batteries can catch fire if damaged, overheated or charged with the wrong charger. The ACCC’s product safety guidance includes:
- use the original charger that came with the battery or tool
- charge on a hard, non-flammable surface such as concrete or tile, away from living areas
- don’t charge overnight or unattended, and unplug when full
- keep batteries cool and dry, and out of hot places such as a closed ute cab in summer
- stop using a battery that is hot, swollen or damaged
- if a battery smokes or catches fire, leave the area and call 000
Be wary of cheap non-genuine batteries. Take damaged or dead batteries to a battery recycling drop-off point rather than putting them in household bins.
Storing batteries in the ute and on site
The ACCC’s advice to keep batteries cool and dry matters for tradies, because a closed ute in an Australian summer gets very hot. Store batteries out of direct sun, take them inside overnight rather than leaving them in the ute, and keep them in a case so terminals can’t short against tools or screws. Charge them in a safe spot at home or in the shed, not in a site box full of rags.
Damaged batteries are a fire risk. If a battery has been dropped hard, crushed or soaked, stop using it.
Buying second hand
Second hand tools and batteries can be good value, but there’s less protection. You may not get the manufacturer’s warranty, and you can’t see how a battery has been treated. Inspect for cracks, swelling and corrosion on the terminals, and walk away from anything that looks damaged.
Which platform for which trade
- Electricians: Milwaukee M18 and M12 are common, partly because of specialist electrical tools. Makita and DeWalt also cover the basics well.
- Plumbers: look for the press tools, pipe cutters and drain gear you need on the platform before committing.
- Carpenters and builders: all four cover saws and drivers. Check nailers and larger saws, where FLEXVOLT, XGT and 36V setups help.
- Maintenance and handyman work: Ryobi ONE+ covers a huge range at lower prices.
Our impact driver vs drill guide explains the two tools most people start with.
Protect your investment
Batteries are expensive and easy to steal. Record serial numbers, keep receipts and store them locked away. Our tools insurance guide explains how theft from utes is usually covered.
Before you commit to a platform
- List every cordless tool your trade uses, including specialist ones.
- Check each is available on the platform you’re considering.
- Price two years of bare tools plus spare batteries, not just the starter kit.
- Buy from authorised dealers to keep the warranty.
- Set up a safe charging spot away from living areas.
Common questions
Can I use one brand's battery in another brand's tool?
Not directly. Batteries are designed for one brand's platform. Third party adaptors exist, but using them can affect your warranty and safety. Check the tool maker's warranty terms before using one.
Do Makita 40V XGT batteries fit LXT tools?
No. Makita's 40V XGT and 18V LXT are separate platforms with different batteries. Check Makita Australia's compatibility information before buying.
Does a bigger amp hour battery make a tool more powerful?
Mainly it runs longer. A higher Ah rating stores more energy, so the tool runs longer between charges, but the battery is heavier. Check the tool maker's recommended batteries for each tool.
How should I charge power tool batteries safely?
The ACCC's product safety guidance includes using the original charger, charging on a hard, non-flammable surface away from living areas, not charging overnight or unattended, and stopping use if a battery is hot, swollen, leaking or damaged.
