this post was submitted on 27 Apr 2026
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Cordless power tools. Yes, they are useful in concept, but today they're just a loss-leader to sell you overpriced batteries.
I wouldn't call that a scam. (Modern) Cordless power tools are fucking incredible despite the branded batteries being a rip-off. I literally have corded tools that I don't even use because extension cords are a real pain in the ass some times.
As the other commenter shared, in Germany they're working on an interchangeable battery system. In the U.S., the manufacturers sell intro bundles cheaply to get us locked into their "ecosystem." That's the scam part. I've got a drill and impact driver set that i paid less for than the replacement cost of the included batteries. It's the same scheme as inkjet printers.
The batteries should 100% be universal and interchangeable (to whatever degree is practical). The whole ecosystem nonsense can get fucked.
But as a form factor cordless is inherently superior for a lot of tools. I'm not gonna haul an extension cord onto a roof or whatnot.
Right I won't deny the branded batteries are overpriced but that has nothing to do with the cordless power tools themselves, and with regard to Germany, I'm not sure what there really is to "work on" considering every pack is already the same 20V pack of 18650s with a few wires, a universal battery management system, and copper electrical contacts. "We're working on it" is just an excuse to continue this practice while pretending like "we hear your concerns."
I hate how the batteries are always incompatible with every other tool except (sometimes) the ones by the same manufacturer. Its tempting to get a petrol generator instead and just use corded tools.
You can buy adapters to use other batteries...it's an extra step but doable,
Now picturing a McGregor to Parkside to Ryobi to Bosch to ....
Massive stack of battery converters that ends up looping back round. Now you can take any tool and any battery and just split the stack where necessary. Of course if you want to go Parkside to McGregor you are going to have to have every single adapter in the stack.
Don't think I'm not tempted to try linking everything
Here in Germany at least, the OEMs are working together battery wise. The battery from X fits in Y and Z, whilst the battery from Y fits in X and Z.