Not that long ago, battery-powered outdoor equipment was a promising idea, but not all that practical. But battery technology has improved, and the power of modern lithium-ion batteries has grown substantially. First there was 18 volts, then 36 volts, then 40, 56 and now even 80 volts from a single battery!

Reliable push-button starting, quieter operation and no messing with gas (or worse, mixing gas and oil!) or clogged carburetors. You’ll find most of the major manufacturers making these next-generation tools: Echo, Ryobi, Milwaukee, Oregon, Kobalt, Craftsman, Stihl and Greenworks.

Each offers many tools that take the same batteries: mowers, trimmers, chain saws, blowers, pole trimmers, hedge trimmers and more. The new 80V battery from Greenworks will even run a snow blower! Cordless tools cost more up front, but they are super-handy! If you’ve ever doubted that battery-powered tools would pack enough power for you, give these new ones a try.