Makita offers a variety of Cordless Power Tool Systems. From 7.2v to the high powered 24v Tool System. Before you make your first purchase it's important to think about which system is right for you. Buying the system with the most power isn't always the best choice. Which system is right for you? I've put together a condensed guide on what i find to be important factors in choosing the right tool system. I hope this guide will help make your choice easier.

It's best to remember that the system you choose should be based on one voltage. A 'system' is made up of basic components: the main tool like a drill along with a pair of batteries and a charger usually make up the basic system. From here you can add a saw, an impact driver, work light or even a radio. Expanding your basic system is the best way to take advantage of a cordless tool system. Having the ability to use the same batteries for different tools and accessories in your system is more convenient and saves a lot of time and frustration.

Makita makes 7.2v, 9.6v, 12v, 14.4v, 18v, and 24v. The most popular are the 12v, 14.4v, and 18v systems. The 7.2v and 9.6v are being phased out so it's best to avoid these as spare batteries and components may become harder to find in the future. Keep in mind that the most important part of your system is the battery. Makita makes batteries based on 'ah' or amp hour. this is a rating of how long the battery will last per charge. Basically the higher the 'ah' the longer the length of working time. We recommend batteries rated at 2.6 ah or higher for best performance.

Below is a brief pros and cons of the different voltage systems:

7.2v and 9.6v: PROS: small and light. CONS: being discontinued. may be hard to find replacements in the future.

12v: PROS: small and light. easy to work with in tight spots. variety of different tool options. CONS: lacks power for heavy duty applications like concrete drilling or cutting thick hard items.

14.4v: PROS: small and light. easy to work with in tight spots. variety of different tool options. CONS: lacks some power for heavy duty applications.

18v: PROS: enough power to do almost any job. variety of tool options and accessories. Batteries and tools are not that much higher in price compared to 12v and 14.4v CONS: a bit heavier than 12v and 14.4v

24v: PROS: can't complain about power. CONS: this line is being discontinued so availability is poor.

A little side note: Makita recently introduced the LXT line of tools which uses the lithium ion technology. This new system allows a user to have 18v power with the weight of a 12v. This system is incredible so it removes the cons of the previous 18v system mentioned above. the only negative would be cost. It's slightly more expensive than the older system but well worth it.