DeWalt 20V MAX XR POWERSTACK Oil-Resistant Compact Battery

Compact, powerful, and surprisingly resilient, the DeWalt 20V MAX XR POWERSTACK Oil-Resistant Compact Battery (DCBP034G) has redefined my expectations for what a battery can do. Right out of the box, the difference in size and weight compared to older models is immediately noticeable. This compact battery is designed to fit seamlessly into the 20V MAX ecosystem, and its performance certainly doesn't disappoint.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this battery is its size. At just 4.5 inches in height and weighing under 13 ounces, it’s significantly smaller and lighter than its predecessors. This compact design makes it particularly well-suited for tasks that require maneuverability in tight spaces. The overmolded rubber bottom is a thoughtful touch, providing a non-slip surface that minimizes the risk of the battery slipping or damaging surfaces when placed on furniture or other delicate areas.

One minor hiccup I encountered was with the battery release lever. It protrudes slightly more than the older models, which initially made it a bit tricky to remove from tools. However, after a few uses, this became less of an issue as I got used to the new design.

Performance and Power

Despite its smaller size, the Powerstack battery delivers an impressive punch. I tested it across a range of tools including a flashlight, impact driver, oscillating tool, and hammer drill. In each case, the battery provided consistent, reliable power. For instance, when using it with my impact driver, the balance and reduced bulk were immediately noticeable, making extended use much more comfortable.

One of the standout features of this battery is its ability to deliver high current draw, which translates to noticeable improvements in power for demanding tasks. While using it with my oscillating tool, I experienced a significant boost in performance compared to the older 2.0Ah battery. The Powerstack performed on par with my 5.0Ah battery, but with much better balance and reduced weight.

In terms of runtime, the battery exceeded my expectations. During a particularly demanding job, I used it to run a blower for an extended period, and while I didn’t push it to exhaustion, the battery remained cool and maintained a steady power output throughout. Similarly, during a drilling task with my hammer drill, the Powerstack provided ample power and improved balance, making the job easier and more efficient.

Durability and Lifespan

Another key advantage of the Powerstack battery is its durability. The oil-resistant construction makes it resilient against damage from oil, grease, and solvents, which is a significant plus for those working in environments where such substances are common. Additionally, the battery's robust construction ensures it can withstand impacts and drops, which is always a concern on busy job sites.

DeWalt claims that the Powerstack battery has twice the service life of its predecessors, thanks to its innovative pouch cell technology. While I haven’t had the battery long enough to verify this claim fully, the initial signs are promising. The battery has maintained its performance and charge cycles well, and I haven’t noticed any significant degradation in power or runtime.

User Experience

Using the Powerstack battery has been a largely positive experience. The LED charge indicator is bright and easy to read, providing a quick and clear view of the battery’s status. This is a small but valuable feature, especially when you’re in the middle of a job and need to know how much power you have left at a glance.

One area where the battery excels is in its weight and balance. The reduced weight makes it ideal for tasks that require prolonged use, such as sanding or drilling. The improved balance also reduces fatigue, allowing for more precise and controlled work. This is particularly beneficial when working in awkward positions or over extended periods.

Areas for Improvement

While the Powerstack battery has many strengths, there are a few areas where it could be improved. The release lever, as mentioned earlier, takes some getting used to and could be more user-friendly. Additionally, the battery’s capacity is on the lower side at 1.7Ah, which means it may not be the best choice for very long or power-intensive tasks. However, for most standard applications, this capacity is more than sufficient.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the DeWalt 20V MAX XR POWERSTACK Oil-Resistant Compact Battery is a game-changer in many ways. Its compact size, impressive power output, and durability make it a valuable addition to any tool kit. The improved balance and reduced weight significantly enhance the user experience, making it easier to handle and reducing fatigue during extended use.

While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the release lever and lower capacity, these are far outweighed by its benefits. For those looking for a reliable, powerful, and durable battery that can handle a variety of tasks with ease, the Powerstack battery is an excellent choice. Its innovative design and performance make it a worthwhile investment, and I would highly recommend it to both professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.