Hey everyone! I've been seeing mixed opinions about the M12 XC 3.0 and the HO 5.0 batteries. People keep saying the 5.0 is significantly better, but from what I found, there's only a slight difference in peak amps—46 for the 3.0 versus 50 for the 5.0. Besides the longer runtime, is there really any substantial benefit to the 5.0? I just purchased two 3.0 XC batteries with my new tool, and I'm debating whether I should invest in the 5.0s. Am I missing something major here? I'd appreciate any insights or information, especially if you have some data to share! Also, I've noticed that the XC6.0 battery performs nearly as well as the 5.0. Where are these claims of the 5.0 being so superior coming from?
5 Answers
In my experience, the 5.0 seems to maintain its power better as the charge drops. The 3.0 is solid off the charger but loses steam quickly, while the 5.0 can handle high loads without fading out.
Generally, you’ll notice a dramatic difference with the HO 5.0Ah battery. It’s like night and day compared to the 3.0 in many cases. I'd say it’s worth getting the 5.0!
It also really depends on the tools you're using with these batteries. If you're using something that takes advantage of the added power, the 5.0 is a big step up. I've been following the Torque Test Channel for their comparisons, and they've highlighted some significant differences in performance.
Their tests showed the XC6.0 is almost on par with the HO 5.0, but the XC6.0 has less power than the 3.0.
I've been wondering the same thing! The HO 5.0 is hardly ever on sale while the XC 3.0 is pretty cheap. But I've heard for high torque jobs, everyone still prefers the HO.
I've found that the 5.0 batteries really push tools like the stubby impact wrenches to their maximum capability. Depending on what you're using, the 5.0 does seem to outperform the 3.0.
Crazy! That little difference actually brings about 200 ft-lbs more breakaway torque. But yeah, battery specs can be misleading sometimes.
Does it really? The gap between the two doesn't seem massive to me.
That definitely makes sense, thanks for explaining!