Cordless tools are rapidly overtaking their corded cousins in the construction trades, as well as for the average homeowner and do-it-yourselfer. The convenience of cordless tools more than makes up for their increased price in many people's eyes, helping them to justify the expense. When you have to do a quick project, cordless tools make it much easier to accomplish.
These cordless combo tool kits combine several tools from the same manufacturer, all of which operate off the same power system. Typically, the kits come with two batteries and a charger, making it possible to work more or less continually, depending upon the recharge speed of the batteries. Since these tools all use Lithium-Ion batteries, it’s possible to pull a partially recharged battery from the charger and use it without any risk of damage.
There are a couple of advantages of buying these types of kits rather than buying individual tools. First of all, the kits provide several tools for a lower price than if you were to buy them individually which ultimately saves you money. A second savings comes from the fact you’re buying all of your tools for the same battery system. That reduces cost on batteries and chargers, especially when you start comparing it to having a mishmash of tools from different manufacturers.
All of the kits have at least one drill and at least two saws. The saws are circular and reciprocating. While that doesn't give you the capability of cutting curves like you can with a scroll saw, it will handle most construction related tasks. Some of the larger kits add a scroll saw, as well as other tools.
It's real easy to get carried away when you start looking at kits like this and decide you need everything. But before buying, take the time to think about the projects you do and the types of tools needed for them. On the flip side, some of the additions to the kit may be what you end up using the most. Many cordless tool manufacturers are now building smaller sized impact drivers, which are great for driving screws into a deck or other tasks where a normal drill/driver doesn't have enough torque. You'll also find work lights in these kits which there are never enough of in anyone's tool kit.
Another thing to consider when choosing a kit is any cordless tools you currently own. If you already have some tools from a manufacturer, the addition of more from the same manufacturer could put you in a position of having more chargers and batteries available for your tool collection. Unless there’s a real reason to buy another brand, it’s worth purchasing consistently.
All of the kits come with soft-sided cases for storing and carrying your tools. This is convenient if you’re limited in workshop space, or just for carrying the tools to the area where you are working on the project. These heavy-duty canvas cases are rugged and can handle the weight of multiple tools, without tearing.
Finally, some of the manufacturers offer more than one combo kit. In those cases, I've listed their best cordless tool combo kits in 2022 but you might want to check their websites to see if they have any smaller kits available.