One Battery to Rule Them All?
So, you bought your first cordless drill. Let’s say it was a DeWalt. Then you needed a jigsaw — and it only made sense to buy another DeWalt, right? Same batteries, one charger, easy life.
And that’s how it starts.
Battery platform loyalty is the clever little trap (or convenience) that’s changed the way we build our toolkits. Brands like DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Ryobi and Bosch aren’t just selling you tools — they’re selling you into an ecosystem. A club. One that’s very hard to leave once you're in.
Why We Stick to One Brand (And Why That’s Not Always Bad)
There’s no denying the convenience:
- One charger for multiple tools = less clutter
- Swappable batteries = less downtime and fewer purchases
If you’re already invested, it’s often cheaper to just buy the “body only” versions of new tools — without battery or charger — as long as they match your current platform. And some brands (like Makita’s LXT or DeWalt’s XR range) give you access to over 100 compatible tools from one battery type. That’s pretty appealing.
The Catch: Are You Missing Out?
The downside? You might be passing up better or cheaper options just because they don’t fit your batteries.
Let’s say Ryobi makes a garden multi-tool that’s perfect for your shed. But you’re locked into Milwaukee batteries. Now you’re either buying a whole new kit… or doing without.
Some users get around this with battery adapters, but be warned — they’re not officially endorsed, and using them can void warranties or fry your electronics.
Brand-by-Brand: The Big UK Battery Ecosystems
If you’re just getting started or thinking of switching, here’s a quick glance at where each big UK brand shines:
- DeWalt 18V XR / 20V Max – great mix of pro and DIY tools, excellent battery life
- Makita LXT – vast range of compatible tools, widely available
- Milwaukee M18 – rugged, trade-grade quality, often pricier
- Ryobi ONE+ – budget-friendly, huge DIY range (yes, even lawnmowers)
- Bosch 18V – strong in both DIY and Pro ranges, good garden tool lineup
The Workbench Verdict
Battery platform loyalty isn’t always a trap — but it is a commitment.
If you’re in deep and happy with your setup, there’s no reason to change.
But if you’re just starting out or looking to expand, take a breath before you buy the next tool. It might be worth jumping the fence.
Still, if one battery fits 20+ tools and saves you from yet another charger tangled in a drawer — that’s loyalty we can live with.
Got your own thoughts on this? Drop us a message or let us know what you’re running in the workshop!
