DeWALT 12V, 20V, and 60V tools: Explained

The next time you're wandering through the hardware store looking for your next power tool, you'll see brands like Milwaukee, Ryobi, DeWALT, and several others. It's already overwhelming, but then you'll realize each brand has several iterations. DeWALT fans have likely seen various near-identical 12V or 20V yellow tools on shelves, and here's what you need to know.

DeWALT is one of the most popular tool brands for enthusiasts and professionals alike, and choosing the right tool for the job is important. A 12V power drill from DeWALT is very different from a 20V model, and it offers select tools in 60V, too. Below, we'll break it down.

DeWALT 12V compact tools

Performance in a small package

Power tool brands often produce a single battery that fits dozens (if not hundreds) of tools, allowing everything to work together as a unified platform. Then, on top of that, you'll usually see different platforms that cater to other sizes, jobs, or performance. Once you buy a specific brand and battery size, you're sort of locked into that brand and platform and can continue buying tools that run on the same battery.

DeWALT's most popular option is the 20V line, but if you're looking for something a little smaller, more affordable, compact, yet extremely capable, you'll want to get a DeWALT 12V tool. It's the smallest of DeWALT's three main tool platforms.

The DeWALT 12V MAX line consists of dozens of tools perfect for getting the job done. They're similar to the Milwaukee M12 line and are designed to deliver compact performance in tight spaces. Almost every 12V tool is small, lightweight, yet perfectly balanced for one-handed use, all while still being powerful enough for most tasks.

If you're just getting started with power tools for around the house, or are a light DIY enthusiast, the 12V platform is perfect. DeWALT offers a wide range of products, including drill and driver combos, impact wrenches, ratchets, angle ratchets, oscillating tools, circular saws, and more. And again, all of these tools are affordable and can run on the same 12V Max battery packs ranging from 1.5Ah to 5Ah.

The DeWALT 20V difference

More than 300+ tools and products

Next up is the massive DeWALT 20V platform , which is extremely popular for a myriad of reasons. DeWALT's 20V system is one of the largest, offering over 300 tools and products that all run on the same 20V battery. This vast collection encompasses nearly every power tool imaginable, including specialized tools for specific professions. If you need it, there's a good chance DeWALT makes one.

Fun fact: DeWALT's 20V tools aren't inherently better than the Ryobi One+ 18V or Milwaukee 18V tools because they have two extra volts. Actually, there's no real power difference between a DeWALT 20V tool, older DeWALT 18V models, or other brands offering 18V lineups. It's a marketing distinction where DeWALT refers to the battery's maximum voltage when charged, while 18V is the nominal (average) voltage. They're the same; it just sounds better for marketing.

That's not to say DeWALT's 20V tools aren't special, because they are. DeWALT utilizes cutting-edge battery technology and brushless motors, offering a wide range of battery sizes to fit any job. You can make a DeWALT 20V tool lighter and more compact by using a small 2Ah battery, or opt for models with capacities ranging from 3Ah to 10Ah, offering extended runtimes.

When you get a DeWALT 20V drill or impact wrench, it'll be more powerful and capable than the same tool from the 12V line. It all comes down to what you need.

Like virtually every other major tool brand, DeWALT offers a wide range of 20V tools, including drills, drivers, saws, fans, speakers, impact guns, angled wrenches, hammer drills, and more. You can get DeWALT 20V drills, nailers, grinders, lasers, rotary hammers, lawn care equipment, and so much more.

They're extremely powerful, versatile, and durable, which is why they're a fan favorite among electricians, trade professionals, and homeowners. However, things become confusing when you start exploring DeWALT's 20V, 20V Max, and 20V XR models, and other various subcategories. Just know that the DeWALT 20V platform is one of the biggest and best on the market.

DeWALT 60V platform

The power of corded tools, with the freedom of cordless

And finally, we have to talk about DeWALT's most powerful tools, the 60V platform . While most regular people and trade professionals use the DeWALT 12V or 20V lineup of tools, larger jobs often require bigger and more powerful tools.

The DeWALT 60V platform delivers the power of corded or gasoline tools, without the cords, smell, or noise. Built for heavy-duty applications, these tools give you the freedom to work wherever while delivering extreme power for tough jobs.

Often powered by a 20V/60V MAX FLEXVOLT battery, you can get DeWALT 60V tools like a combination jackhammer or rotary hammer, grinders, circular saws, cut-off tools, lawn mowers, and more. The idea here is that sometimes you'll need more power, torque, or cutting power than a traditional 18 or 20V tool, yet don't want to use a corded tool (or can't run a gas-powered item), which is when you'd spring for a 60V model.

Currently, the DeWALT 60V platform has roughly 100 different tools or products, but it's constantly changing with new additions, replacement models, or other advancements.

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So, which DeWALT line is right for you? Ultimately, it'll depend on your wants, needs, profession, or, more importantly, your budget. I know plenty of people who have DeWALT 12V tools for around the house, and they're more than capable for any job. However, when you need a bit more power, longer run time, or want to choose from over 300 tools, go with the DeWALT 20V line.

Additionally, there's nothing wrong with owning both; just know that your 12V tool won't work with a 20V battery. Well, not without an adapter. So, get yourself a new DeWALT 20V drill, driver, or impact wrench, and start stocking up on battery packs . You'll be ready for any job or project.