International Builders' Show Product Preview: Lithium-Ion Tools Move Into the Mainstream

It wasn't all that long ago that you had to pay a premium for cordless tools with lighter, longer-life lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries. But during my visits to the booths of several big tool manufacturers at the International Builders' Show, I noticed that several big companies are now offering higher-tech Li-Ion cells for less.

Much of the action is happening with lower-volt batteries. Ryobi's new 12-volt Li-Ion drill-driver ($79) weighs less than 2 pounds and comes with some big claims: Its battery is 30 percent smaller, 33 percent lighter, and offers four times more recharge cycles than the company's 12-volt NiCad cell, says the manufacturer of this Home Depot exclusive. Ryobi is also offering a new 18-volt Li-Ion four-piece cordless kit (shown), with a drill, circular and reciprocating saws, flashlight, two batteries, and charger ($179). The battery fits Ryobi's earlier One+ NiCad tools. You can also buy an 18-volt battery and one-hour charger alone for $99 to upgrade earlier Ryobi NiCad tools.

Ridgid's 12-volt Li-Ion drill-driver joins the company's other lithium-powered tools debuting this spring. A major talking point for the $129 drill is that you get free replacement batteries, parts, and service for as long as you own the drill. This tool features 30-minute recharging instead of the typical hour or more. Also new from Ridgid is a four-piece kit with an 18-volt hammer drill, reciprocating and circular saws, and impact driver ($499). Ridgid tools are sold at Home Depot.

The new Li-Ion battery on the new Craftsman (Sears) 16-volt drill ($119 with a flashlight) features inline cells for flatness and, like other Li-Ion batteries, has built-in protection against overheating and overcharging. A cushioned chuck is another perk. If you're too tough for a "homeowner" drill, check out Craftsman's two new Professional Li-Ion-ion drills with beefier, all-cast-aluminum gearboxes. The 12-volt drill runs $180; the 16-volt version (shown), $200. Both kits include a charger, second battery, and utility bag.—Bob Markovich

Essential information: Read our latest report on cordless drills to find the right tool for your workshop. For more information on cordless tools, click here. And see how we test cordless drills in our new video hub. Click on Home & Garden and scroll down to Cordless Drill Testing.