Makita is one of the biggest brands of cordless power tools. Makita is known for its superior quality drills and saws. Their products are known for their durability. This is the reason why their older models are still commonly in use.
Makita Replacement batteries are highly in demand and this is the reason why it is produced by various companies.
Makita’s early range of replacement batteries of 9.6 volts was Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd). They were the first easily available rechargeable batteries. However, they were heavy, hazardous and failed to deliver good battery performance. Next come Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH), which lasted longer and delivered a better performance as compared to NiCd batteries. However, they were more expensive as compared to NiCad batteries and also demanded careful handling while charging. Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery is the latest kind of replacement batteries used for power tools. NiCd and NiMH batteries can not be used in Makita’s Li-ion powered tools. In the case of NiCd and NiMH batteries, the power is utilized quickly as soon as the tool starts working, whereas, the Li-ion batteries deliver consistent power for a longer period of time.
The life cycle of a battery is determined by the number of times it can be recharged. Li-ion batteries recharge much faster than NiCad batteries. Higher the ampere-hour rating, higher will be the recharge time. For example, an 18-volt lithium-ion battery of 2.0 Ah charges rapidly as compared to an 18-volt lithium-ion battery of 5.0 Ah.
NiCad batteries suffer from the memory effect. This means that, if they are charged one quarter, and you recharge them, they consider only three-quarter charge. Each time you do this, it only turns worse. Therefore, in the case of NiCad batteries, it is essential to recharge them only once they are deeply discharged. However, this is not the case in NiMH and Li-ion batteries as they can be recharged as per the requirement.
Overcharging NiCd and NiMH batteries can affect its performance. Makita batteries usually have a built-in circuit that is designed to prevent overcharging. However, it is advisable not to do so. Makita Lithium-ion Extreme Technology batteries come with built-in charge indicator.
Never store batteries for a longer period of time without charging. They need to be charged about 50%. Makita’s LXT batteries are already supplied with 30% charge for storage purposes.
Makita power tool batteries come with a good protective casing in order to keep them safe from physical damage. But this has its own limitations. If they are dropped down or anything is dropped on them, it could damage the cells within the batteries.
Makita replacement batteries come in a wide variety of price ranges.
Some of inexpensive Makita replacement batteries would cost you around $20 to $30. These are the slim line style 9.6-volt models that slide up into the handle.
The medium priced 12 volts, 14.4 volt and 18 volts NiMH batteries would cost you somewhere around $30 to $40 each. By buying them in pairs, you could save around $10.
Makita’s original 18 volt LXT is slightly expensive as they cost around $80 to $110. With these original batteries, you can be assured of the quality as they are high performance 5.0 Ah versions.
Rechargeable batteries & Power tools 