18v 3.0 amp vs 4.0 amp - what are the size/weight differences?

[derekcohen]

The new purchase is a CXS 18 skin. I have two 3.1 amp batteries from a 18v PDC which work in it, but would like to get another. I gather that the 3.0 is a replacement for the 3.1. Then I read that the 4.0 is lighter than its predecessor, and this may be to go to if it is a similar size and weight as the 3.0

What can you tell me about these batteries? I am after the LIGHTEST battery, only extra duration if the mass is not compromised. Lastly, I want to check that "airstream" does not prevent a battery being used in these drills?

Regards from Perth

Derek

 

[Jacks Moonshiner]

Derek

I have a 3.0 battery on my CXS18 .
I initially used the 4.0 HighPower but got a 3 a bit later to lighten its load a wee bit.

To answer your queries , the 4 is a lil bit bigger and a lil bit heavier.
If , like you state, the smallest footprint is what takes precedence, I’d go with the 3.0.

 

[Coen]

The "highpower" packs have 21700 cells. The current draw rating on these cells is amazing. The 3.0 have high density 18650 cells that can't keep up (in comparison to the 21700s) under extreme load.

But the CXS isn't an extreme load, so if you want light, sure get the 3.0

I have a bunch of the equivalent Bosch packs with 21700s. They allow for some insane abuse. The cells are packed in there naked (no wrapper) with a press fit to facility heat transfer.
Haven't seen the inside of a Festool Highpower battery though. But their design (the bumper, bluetooth, probably different (might very well be better) BMS ends up being 600 grams instead of the 515 grams of the Bosch equivalent.

 

[derekcohen]

Many thanks for the replies.

Try as I may, I cannot find 3.0 batteries in Australia. Only 4.0 .... is the 3.0 being discontinued?

Regards from Perth

Derek

 

[Jim_in_PA]

Derek, per my reply on SMC, it appears the choices are 4.0 AH or 5.0 AH at this point, at least from whom I buy Festool currently. My CSX-18 came with the 4.0 AH batteries and they are not dissimilar in size to the 3.1 AH batteries you have shown on your drill/driver. It's said that the 4.0 AH batteries are 20% less heavy than the 5.x AH batteries and about 50% smaller. For your purposes, the 4.0 AH batteries would be ideal, IMHO.

 

[derekcohen]

Thanks Jim. I knew you would respond. I have not visited SMC yet, but had a notification you replied there as well.

Well, 4.0 is better than 3.0, as long as they are similar in size and weight.

Regards from Perth

Derek