Metabo HPT's new T-Power tabless battery system and 12A charger represent a significant leap forward in the company's power tool technology. This comprehensive review delves into the performance and features of this innovative system, comparing it directly to Metabo HPT's previous battery lines. We examine the speed and capabilities of the 12-amp charger, a key component offering dramatically faster charging times compared to its predecessors. The review also explores the weight, size, and compatibility of the new T-Power batteries, assessing their performance across a range of power tools under both moderate and heavy-duty use.This in-depth analysis goes beyond superficial comparisons, dissecting the internal components of the T-Power battery and rigorously testing its performance in real-world scenarios. We explore whether the claimed improvements in efficiency and power output translate into tangible benefits for the user. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a clear and unbiased assessment of whether the Metabo HPT T-Power system offers a worthwhile upgrade for existing users and represents a compelling option for those considering entering the Metabo HPT ecosystem.
Pros And Cons
- Charges 18vt and 40v batteries quickly (12 amps)
- Significant improvement over older chargers
- Lighter than older batteries
- Backwards compatible with 18vt and 40v tools and chargers
- Charges quickly with the new 12-amp charger
- May not show significant performance difference in moderate use
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The New Metabo HPT T-Power Battery System
Metabo HPT has entered the tabless battery arena with its new T-Power battery system. This follows a trend in the power tool industry towards improved battery technology, seen with manufacturers like DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Makita.
The T-Power batteries are designed to offer a significant upgrade, addressing issues with previous Metabo HPT chargers' slower charging speeds. The company boasts improved performance and efficiency compared to their older battery lines.
This new battery system represents a notable move by Metabo HPT, making it a serious contender in the market's technological advancements.
The Revolutionary 12 Amp Fast Charger
The accompanying charger is a key element of this new system. It features a remarkable 12-amp charging capacity, comparable to Makita's XGT charger. This allows for significantly faster charging times compared to older Metabo HPT chargers.
A standout feature is its backward compatibility. It's designed to charge both the new 40V T-Power batteries and the older 18V batteries without any adapters, simplifying the charging process.
This all-in-one solution enhances usability and eliminates the need for multiple chargers, a significant convenience for users.
Weight and Performance Comparison
Surprisingly, the new T-Power batteries are lighter than their predecessors, weighing in at 2 lb 1.4 oz compared to 2 lb 2.8 oz for the older models. This reduction in weight is a welcome improvement, making them easier to handle during prolonged use.
The footprint remains identical, ensuring compatibility with existing tools. The reviewer tests the batteries with a reciprocating saw, drill, and impact driver to assess any performance differences.
Initial tests indicated minimal discernible difference in speed or power between the old and new batteries under moderate use. Further testing was required to determine any significant performance benefits.
Real-World Performance Tests
In-depth tests using a reciprocating saw revealed negligible time differences between the new and old batteries, indicating similar cutting power under normal conditions. However, tests with a heavy-duty impact driver revealed a slight but noticeable improvement in performance with the new T-Power battery under high stress.
Cutting through dense wood and driving larger lag bolts demonstrated the T-Power battery's increased power output. The tool ran with less bogging down when using the new battery, especially in the most demanding conditions.
These results indicate that the advantages of the T-Power battery system are most noticeable in situations requiring higher power output and prolonged use.
Internal Battery Disassembly and Conclusion
The reviewer disassembled the new T-Power battery to reveal the tabless 21700 cells. While the exact manufacturer wasn't identified, the design is clean and efficient.
Overall, the Metabo HPT T-Power battery system shows promise, particularly the 12-amp fast charger which is a definite upgrade. The batteries themselves offer marginal gains in real-world performance unless working under heavy load.
Considering potential sales and bundled offers, the T-Power batteries might be a worthwhile investment. However, the 12-amp charger is recommended for anyone already using Metabo HPT tools and dealing with slow charging times.