I'm eyeing some sales locally and wanted to know if the 1.7Ah Powerstack battery actually delivers the same power and voltage as the 5Ah version. Here are the deals I'm considering:
- DCD996 with a Powerstack 5Ah and a charger for $240.
- DCF809 with two Powerstack 1.7Ah batteries and a charger for $160.
My use tends to be for short bursts, so the combo with the 1.7Ah packs seems appealing. Plus, I could grab a used DCD999 later for $75. I already own some 5Ah XR batteries for long sessions, but I'm curious if the 1.7Ah could meet my needs without the extra weight. Also, I wish Powerstack came in a 12V option!
2 Answers
Both batteries are still 20V, but the 5Ah version has more cells which let it deliver power for longer. If you're using something like a drill, the 1.7Ah will still function well as long as it’s charged, but you might notice that intense tasks could drain it faster and it may not provide the same 'kick' as the 5Ah for extended use.
To be honest, neither deal sounds that great, especially from what I'm seeing here in Australia where prices are usually higher. For reference, you can grab a DCD805 and DCF850 McLaren edition kit with two 5Ah batteries for about $260 USD over here. A few months back, they were selling at around $280 with extras included. So, I'd keep looking for better offers!
Yeah, I get you. My prices in Mexico aren't much better! A DCD1007 bare tool goes for about $280 after taxes. It can be frustrating!
Exactly! The more Ah you have, the more consistent the power for heavy-duty tasks. Just keep that in mind if you plan on using it often.