The great power tools debate - What is the best brand?

[JoshRaf]

Hi All, I wanted to know what everyones opinions are on what  you think the best brands of power tools are for professionals, the at home DIYer and the one time users.

My personal preferences are as follows: 

Professional (top of the range):

1. DeWalt

2. Makita 

3. AEG

4. Bosche Blue

DIYer:

1. Ryobi

2. Bosche Green

3. Ozito Power Xchange (red)

One time user:

1. Ozito

2. XU1

[DanFine]

G'day all, aging not very gracefully tradie here...

Need to find a new cordless tools platform as quite a few of my seldom used AEG tools have just quit on me in the last couple of months. Now I know it's not battery fatigue as I am using and charging batteries constantly with tools like the circ saw, cipro, impact driver and drill but more speciality tools like one of the routers, planer, jig saw, rattle gun and my 2x subcompact impact drivers. These have all simply decided to stop working except for one of the SC ID was a chuck issue.

Now to the aging not so gracefully bit and the twist mentioned...

I now have CPS(Carpal Tunnel Syndrome) so want to hear people's experience with the different cordless platforms in regards to ergonomics and comfort particularly in extended usage.

Also if anyone has had a similar experience and found a solution? My next thing to try is wrapping the handles in a spongy tape or something but that's probably only going to be a temporary solution.

I appreciate you all reading this and look forward to your responses.

Cheers Dan

[EricL]

Hello @DanFine 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us and thanks for sharing your question about cordless tools.

It sounds like you’re facing a frustrating situation with both your tools and the added challenge of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CPS). Finding a new cordless platform with better ergonomics and comfort for extended use is definitely a worthwhile consideration.
 

When it comes to ergonomics, different brands offer varying designs. Makita and DeWalt are well-regarded for their comfortable grips, with Makita’s CXT line being particularly lightweight and easier to handle. DeWalt’s XR range also features well-balanced tools with rubber over-moulding, which can help reduce grip fatigue. Hikoki (Metabo HPT) has ergonomic designs as well, especially in their impact drivers. Bosch tools tend to have a slightly bulkier grip, and suitability will depend on your hand comfort. Metabo’s LiHD battery system is also worth considering, as it delivers strong performance with well-balanced tools.
 

Since you frequently use some tools while others remain idle for extended periods, it would be beneficial to test different models in-store to determine which grip and weight distribution feel most comfortable. Some features, such as paddle-switch grinders in Makita’s lineup, may be easier to operate compared to traditional trigger designs.
 

For managing CPS-related discomfort, anti-vibration gloves can help reduce strain, and wrapping tool handles in a cushioned material like tennis racquet grip tape or bicycle bar tape may provide additional comfort. Additionally, using lower torque settings where possible could help minimize excessive strain on your hands.
 

If symptoms persist, consulting a physiotherapist or hand specialist with experience in treating tradespeople may be beneficial. They can offer recommendations on grip modifications, exercises, or even wrist braces to reduce strain during tool use.
 

I hope you find a tool platform that meets your needs. If you end up testing a few brands, I would be interested to hear which one provides the best comfort for extended use.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @TedBear, @JoeAzza and @Nailbag for their opinion on the tools.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Dave-1]

Good Evening @DanFine 

You are talking to an aching ex tradie here as well, and oh yeah I know about health impacts on abilities. I get tendinitis in my wrist and man it impacts heavily on some projects. I also have to be extremely careful with bending my lower legs otherwise Gout gets triggered and that is not on my wishlist.

With your tools and batteries. You mention "its not battery fatigue" but my passing thought was even if they are charged but used rarely that will impact batteries useful time for sure. (the answer could be to discharge the batteries evey couple of months) I havnt used AEG (out of my price range) but would go to an effort to be able to keep using them as they are a decent tool. Instead of modifying the grips/handles how about strapping your wrist? I use a velcro strap after Ive been working sometimes and it makes a world of difference to the recovery time. The strap I have is something like this Wagner Body Science Premium Support Wrist Adjustable I dont use it during the job as I figure I am pushing myself too far and not aware of the pain

I also do the double think before I start the job, my left wrist is a lot weaker then the right wrist so I try and work it where I am using the stronger side. Right up to using clamps and taking longer on a task. It works mostly except when I push myself too hard.

I use Ozito battery torque drill and also a ozito battery impact driver. Both I have found comfortable to use, however the strength is not in my wrist to hold me in place while drilling say hardwood posts, I actually loop my arm and use the crook of my elbow to give pressure when drilling or using the impact driver same deal. I have a powered circular saw (right hand so no issue but same issue trying to hold it with my weak left hand so I clamp the timber or use my foot to provide pressure. I have a el cheapo grinder that is small enough and light enough to use in my right hand and hold the steel mesh in my left hand. 

I was going to suggest to come in store to a Bunnings ( @EricL  beat me) and play around holding the tools for 5mins (as in supporting them in the air), even without a battery in them you will feel the weight for sure and soon know which is more comfortable. 

I do find that powered tools generaly have a load more torque in them so easier to use but you need extension cords. Just thinking outside the job as I set up is how I handle that. We may be a little worse for wear but thinking it through (as in steps and work arounds) plus strapping may bring things back into the realm of possibilities.

Dave

[JoeAzza]

Hi @DanFine , sorry to hear about your CPS, I agree with @EricL  to consult with a specialist , they may be able to assist with your Carple tunnel, I know you can get supports for your wrist/arm that will help.

I have been using the Makita range of 18volt power tool range, for over 8 years, I find them easy to handle and the batteries last a long time too. I still have original batteries in use, so far Makita hasn’t failed me.

[Nailbag]

Hi @DanFine 

As far as ergonomics go, it literally is all personal. weight, balance of the tool and grip all comes down to your own physical attributes. So, your best bet is put the various brands in your hands. Personally I wouldn't advise wrapping any tape etc on the grips of most powertools. With wear this could become problematic with a safe grip and your ability to control the tool accurately. I would consider trying some of the wrist bands available as they can offer some support. There are the ones that extend into your grip, but I never found them suitable when using power tools. But I'm sure you have tried these yourself. I've also had CP in both wrists and I can highly recommend considering the operation if you can. For the few weeks of recovery, it will give you a lifetime of relief and full use of your hand/s without the pain and dumbness. I'm well in my 60's still on the tools and had the op's 8 & 10yrs ago and haven't looked back. A good mate of mine was a butcher and was in the same boat and also had both hands successfully done.

Regarding the sudden death of your entire AEG tool collection within 60days, is staggering for any brand. As someone ex Powertools industry 30yrs and currently in my 14th year of owning and extensively using AEG tools across most of the cordless range, I can honestly say I have had maybe 4-5 tools fail in all that time. A couple with electronic failures and a couple I simply worked to the ground. I look after all my tools, but I don't treat them like kit-gloves either. For the past 2yrs I'm full time on the tools self-employed and none have missed a beat, including all the types you have mentioned and then some. There has to be a common denominator worth investigating for such a widespread loss of your power tools. I also have a few now old Ryobi cordless tools and a couple of specialty Milwaukee, again now quite old.

Nailbag

[Noyade]

Hi @JoshRaf 

"I now have CPS(Carpal Tunnel Syndrome)"

My understanding is a Neurologist with nerve conduction studies provides the most accurate diagnosis.

Then a referral to usually a hand or orthopaedic surgeon.

My wife has just been diagnosed.

Rather than accommodate the problem - especially if it is this bad - get it surgically repaired.

My wife's tip - "do not get them both done at the same time!"

Cheers and good luck!

[Nailbag]

Your wife's tip is a good one @Noyade. Both myself and mate had each wrist done about 3-4mths apart once the first had fully recovered. The surgeon would be recommending this in any case.

Nailbag