DEWALT XR XTREME RUN TIME CORDLESS TOOLS

We got to check out DeWalt’s new XR series of drills and drivers at a recent media event. If you haven’t yet checked these out, you need to take a second look and observe the increased run-time of these new brushless tools. The XR line features the company’s update 2 .0Ah and 4.0 Ah 20V batteries as well as new brushless motors. Combined, the XR technology offers some really compact tools that are built to drill longer, drive in more screws, and run cooler than any of DeWalt’s cordless drill/drivers made to date. The differences—even compared to DeWalt’s previous line-up—are amazing. DeWalt has released Compact Hammer Drills and Drill/Drivers as well as Impact Drivers in both kit and tool-only configurations. In the Fall we should see even more XR series tools. It should be a good year to wear yellow and black to the job site.
What Are DEWALT XR Batteries?
DEWALT 20v MAX XR batteries are just like standard 20-volt batteries, but they last longer relative to their size. The XR stands for Extended Runtime, so you get extra life out of them before running out of juice.
WHAT IS DEWALT XR XTREME RUN TIME
- Up to 57% more Runtime
A brushless motor controls energy transfer efficiently within the tool. 20V MAX* XR brushless motor power tools give you more runtime. Get more done.
- 33% More Capacity
XR Lithium-Ion batteries with fuel gauge provide more capacity and more runtime in the same size.
- Compact and Lightweight
Compact and lightweight, DEWALT’s XR brushless drills and hammer drills gets the job done in tight areas.
- Built-in LED Light
XR Power tools contain an LED light with 20-second trigger release delay. This provides increased visibility in dark or confined space
Are there a difference between xr battery and the 20v max battery?
The XR labeling was originally used on the higher amp hour batteries. All of our DEWALT batteries are XR.
Thanks,
DEWALT Customer Care
DEWALT 20v MAX And FlexVolt – What’s The Difference?

For those who haven’t been paying attention, DEWALT revolutionized cordless power tool in 2016 when they released the FlexVolt platform the first-ever multi-volt battery system. FlexVolt batteries pack 60 volts to power highly demanding tools including DEWALT’s Atomic compact cordless tools, outdoor power equipment, work lights for the job site saws, and nearly any tool in your truck and your trailers. As a bonus, FlexVolt batteries actually step down and run at 20 volts when attached to lower-power tools.
Besides the heavy-hitting FlexVolt, DEWALT is still running strong with their tried and true 20-volt MAX platform. This lithium-ion system of slider batteries is compact, rugged, and made for jobs needing moderate power.
What About DEWALT Battery Compatibility of a 20-Volt Battery In A 60-Volt Tool?

It will not fit. There are plastic tabs on all 60 and 120-volt tools that physically prevent using 20-volt batteries. FlexVolt batteries have special ports that allow their use.
What Do FlexVolt Batteries Fit?
FlexVolt batteries are compatible with all DEWALT 60 and 20-volt DEWALT tools. A few exceptions exist that we’ll touch on below.
What Do DEWALT 20 Volt Batteries Fit?
Standard DEWALT 20 volt batteries are compatible with all 20-volt tools, as well as all 20-volt chargers. This means that once you join the DEWALT platform, you have access to over 100 products that all use the same battery technology.DEWALT 20v MAX batteries can’t be used in FlexVolt 60v and 120v MAX tools, however. The lower voltage doesn’t provide enough juice for the high-demand motors.
Do These Batteries Work In Brushless Tools?
Yes, DEWALT batteries will work in all DEWALT tools of the correct voltage whether the tool is brushed or brushless. Brushless refers to the construction of the motor. Brushless tools will use the batteries more efficiently and therefore last longer per charger, however, than brushed tools,.
What is the difference between MAX, XR, and ATOMIC?
DEWALT offers cordless tools of varying features.
DEWALT 20V MAX is the next line after 18V, introducing lithium ion batteries.
- standard size
- brushed motor
DEWALT 20V XR improved on the 20V MAX line by introducing brushless motors and high capacity lithium ion batteries.
- enhanced components
- compact
- brushless motors
DEWALT 20V ATOMIC are designed to be compact and powerful for a wide range of applications.
- more compact size
- reduced weight
- optimized for tight spaces, overhead work, and longer periods of use
- brushless motor
Are There Exceptions To These DEWALT Battery Compatibility Rules?
Yes. While most DEWALT batteries fit on all tools they are marked as compatible with, there are a few that don’t. Due to their size, FlexVolt packs don’t fit all smaller tools and adapters. A few newer compact 20v MAX packs are slightly longer than others, and so also don’t fit all tools or chargers.
Shop DEWALT replacement batteries and chargers at Power Tool Connection.
DEWALT Battery Compatibility Chart

Are there a difference between xr battery and the 20v max battery?
The XR labeling was originally used on the higher amp hour batteries. All of our DEWALT batteries are XR.
Thanks,
DEWALT Customer Care
Hi Chris. Thank you for very interesting article. I’ve got lot of Dewalt tools but to be fair I haven’t heard before about XR batteries. But looking on your review its sees as a great option, especially 57% more runtime is impressive. Price is also quite reasonable and Im looking forward to test them in practice.
Thank you
I’m about to but more thinks on from dewat.