Milwaukee M12 REDLITHIUM XC6.0 Battery

As a seasoned DIY enthusiast and a contractor, I’ve had the opportunity to test and use a variety of tools and accessories. One such accessory that I tried recently is the Milwaukee M12 REDLITHIUM XC6.0 Battery. This battery is a part of Milwaukee’s M12 series, which is known for its compact yet powerful design, making it a popular choice among professionals and hobbyists alike. With a claim of enhanced runtime, power, and lifespan, I was eager to see if this battery lived up to its promise.

Initial Impressions

Out of the box, the M12 REDLITHIUM XC6.0 Battery feels robust and well-constructed. It’s slightly heavier than the standard M12 batteries, weighing in at 0.9 lbs, but this is expected given the increased amp hour capacity of 6.0. The dimensions (2.6 in width, 3.4 in length, and 4.5 in height) make it a bit bulkier, but it’s still manageable and compatible with over 70 Milwaukee M12 cordless tools. The battery features a durable construction, which is supposed to withstand the rigors of various job site conditions.

Performance and Runtime

Upon first use, the battery was impressive. The power output was consistent, and it provided a noticeable boost in performance compared to the standard 2.0 or 4.0 amp hour batteries. I tested it with several M12 tools, including the compact inflator, rotary tool, and an M12 flashlight. In all cases, the tools performed admirably, and I experienced longer runtimes, which is crucial when working on extended projects without frequent interruptions for recharging.

Charging and Compatibility

Charging the M12 REDLITHIUM XC6.0 Battery using Milwaukee’s M12/M18 chargers was straightforward. The communication between the tool, battery, and charger is optimized to enhance performance and protect against overload. However, I did encounter some challenges here. After a few cycles of charging and discharging, I noticed that the battery started displaying red and green flashing lights on the charger, indicating a charging problem. This was disheartening, as it disrupted my workflow and delayed my projects.

Durability Concerns

Further usage revealed more issues. Despite its durable construction, the battery failed to maintain its performance over time. After several charges, two of the batteries I tested exhibited the same red/green flashing issue. Upon inspection, I realized that some of the internal cells had failed, resulting in an inability to hold a charge. This was particularly frustrating, considering the battery’s premium price point and the expectations set by Milwaukee’s reputation for quality.

Warranty and Customer Service

Milwaukee offers a 3-year limited warranty on the M12 REDLITHIUM XC6.0 Battery, which is reassuring. However, my experience with the warranty process was mixed. While Milwaukee did replace one of the faulty batteries, another warranty claim was denied due to the purchase not being from an authorized distributor. This was disappointing, as it highlighted a potential gap in Milwaukee’s customer service, especially when dealing with genuine issues.

Overall Experience

Despite the initial impressive performance, my overall experience with the M12 REDLITHIUM XC6.0 Battery has been a rollercoaster. The battery delivers on its promise of enhanced power and runtime, making it a valuable accessory for those who need extended usage for their tools. However, the durability issues and the inconsistent performance over time are significant drawbacks. The repeated charging failures and the hassle of dealing with warranty claims add to the frustration.

Recommendation

Given my experience, I find it challenging to recommend the M12 REDLITHIUM XC6.0 Battery wholeheartedly. While it does offer superior performance and longer runtime initially, the durability concerns and the potential for charging failures cannot be overlooked. If you rely heavily on your tools for professional use, the risk of frequent disruptions might outweigh the benefits of the increased capacity.

For those who still wish to invest in this battery, I would advise purchasing it from an authorized distributor to ensure you can leverage the warranty if needed. Additionally, having backup batteries, such as the 4.0 or 5.0 amp hour versions, might help mitigate potential downtime due to battery failures.

In conclusion, while the Milwaukee M12 REDLITHIUM XC6.0 Battery has the potential to be a game-changer in terms of power and runtime, the durability issues and inconsistent performance make it a risky investment. Until Milwaukee addresses these concerns, you might be better off sticking with their more reliable battery options or exploring alternatives.