Beginner's Guide to Cordless Power Tools

Making the switch to cordless power tools is a smart move for any beginner woodworker. With greater mobility, less clutter, and easier setup, cordless tools simplify everything from quick repairs to major DIY projects. But before you start building your collection, it’s important to understand why choosing tools from a single brand ecosystem matters—especially when it comes to battery compatibility.

Why Battery Compatibility Matters

Not all cordless tools—and their batteries—are created equal. One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is mixing brands and ending up with a dozen chargers and incompatible batteries. Choosing tools from a single manufacturer streamlines your workflow, saves money, and gives you flexibility to expand your kit over time without added clutter.

Getting Started with Festool’s Cordless System

Festool 576869 Cordless Drill CXS 12 2,5-Set

Cordless Drill – Everyday Essential

Festool 576869 Cordless Drill CXS 12 2,5-Set

Compact, lightweight, and reliable. This drill is ideal for everyday tasks around the shop. It comes with two high-quality lithium-ion batteries, rubber-coated for protection, a charge indicator, and a 2.5 Ah rating for longer runtime. Compatible with Festool’s entire 18-volt cordless line.

Festool RSC 18 EB-Basic

Reciprocating Saw – Demolition & Rough Cuts

Festool RSC 18 EB-Basic

This cordless reciprocating saw gives you serious cutting power for tough jobs like demo work or rough lumber cuts—all without being tethered to a wall outlet.

Jigsaw – Detail & Curve Cuts

Festool PSC 420 EB-Basic CARVEX

For fine curves and detail work, this cordless jigsaw delivers clean, controlled cuts. It’s ideal for furniture-making, cabinetry, and sign-making projects.

Festool KSC 60 EB-Basic KAPEX Cordless. Seriously.

Sliding Compound Miter Saw – Precision Crosscuts

Festool KSC 60 EB-Basic KAPEX

This cordless sliding compound miter saw offers portability without sacrificing cutting accuracy. A great choice for job site work or mobile workshops.

Festool CTC SYS I HEPA-Basic CLEANTEC

Cordless Dust Extractor – Clean as You Go

Festool CTC SYS I HEPA-Basic CLEANTEC

Keep your workspace clean and breathable with this cordless dust extractor. It's HEPA-rated and fully mobile, making it perfect for on-the-go or small-space work.

Festool’s cordless lineup doesn’t stop there. You can also pick up a cordless eccentric sander for smooth finishes and a cordless angle grinder for metal and heavy-duty work. Need more power on hand? Extra batteries are available to keep you running without interruption.

Exploring the Fein Cordless Tool Lineup

Fein ASCM 18-4 QMP ASHammer Drill / Driver Set 

High-Torque Hammer Drill/Driver

Fein ASCM 18-4 QMP AS

Built for high torque and control, this hammer drill features an extendable auxiliary handle and comes with a rechargeable 4 Ah CORE 18V battery. It’s a powerhouse for tough jobs.

Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit – All-In-One Versatility

Fein’s AmpShare MultiMaster AMM700 Max Kit AS includes two 4 Ah Procore batteries, a charger, and a full accessory set. Perfect for sanding, scraping, plunge cutting, and more—all in one cordless tool.

Fein might be the better choice for metalworkers, thanks to their specialized cordless tools. Check out their magnetic base cordless core drill, ideal for precision drilling in steel, the cordless slitting shear for fast sheet metal cutting, and the cordless die grinder for grinding and deburring in tight spots. Need more runtime? Extra batteries are available to keep your tools powered up.

Note on Dust Collection

Fein Turbo I Wet/Dry Vacuum is a powerful option for dust extraction, but it’s not cordless. If cordless dust control is a priority, Festool may be a better fit.

Which Brand Is Right for You?

Festool: Great for users building a fully cordless workshop, including dust extraction. Premium build quality and battery compatibility across a wide range of tools.

Fein: Known for precision and durability. Tools often come with extra batteries and accessories, making them a solid choice if you prefer all-in-one kits, even if they cost more upfront.

Final Thoughts for Beginners

As a beginner, you can’t go wrong with either Festool or Fein—but the key is to commit to one platform. This keeps things simple, organized, and budget-friendly in the long run. Start with a few high-quality cordless tools, and build your workshop one project at a time.

Pro Tip: Get yourself a Woodpeckers CDS Cordless Drill Station for easy storage - because you will inevitably end up with more than one cordless tool!