Yes — with an important caveat. DeWalt FLEXVOLT batteries are backwards compatible with all DeWalt 20V MAX tools, but standard 20V MAX batteries cannot be used in FLEXVOLT 60V or 120V tools. Here’s the full breakdown.
The Short Answer
FLEXVOLT batteries work in 20V MAX tools. Standard 20V MAX batteries do not work in 60V MAX or 120V MAX tools. This one-way compatibility is by design — FLEXVOLT batteries automatically switch their voltage depending on which tool they’re inserted into.
How FLEXVOLT Auto-Switching Works
DeWalt FLEXVOLT batteries contain cells that are wired to automatically reconfigure between parallel and series connections. When you insert a FLEXVOLT battery into a 20V MAX tool, the cells connect in parallel, delivering 20V with higher amp-hour capacity. When inserted into a 60V MAX tool, the cells switch to series, delivering 60V.
For example, the DeWalt DCB612 FLEXVOLT battery is rated at 6.0Ah at 20V or 2.0Ah at 60V. The total energy (watt-hours) stays the same — you’re trading voltage for capacity or vice versa.
Which Batteries Work in Which Tools?
20V MAX tools accept both standard 20V MAX batteries (DCB200 series) and FLEXVOLT batteries (DCB606, DCB609, DCB612). Using a FLEXVOLT battery in a 20V MAX tool gives you longer runtime due to the higher amp-hour rating at 20V.
60V MAX tools require FLEXVOLT batteries only. Standard 20V MAX batteries physically fit the rail but lack the additional connection points needed for 60V operation. The tool will not power on with a standard 20V battery.
120V MAX tools (like the DHS790 mitre saw) require two FLEXVOLT batteries running in series. These are the highest-power cordless tools in the DeWalt range and cannot operate with standard 20V batteries.
Do They Use the Same Chargers?
Yes. All DeWalt 20V MAX chargers are compatible with FLEXVOLT batteries, and vice versa. The DCB115, DCB118, and DCB1112 chargers all work across the entire 20V/60V range. The FLEXVOLT batteries simply charge at 20V regardless of their dual-voltage capability.
What About DeWalt 12V MAX?
DeWalt’s 12V MAX (formerly 10.8V) battery platform is entirely separate. These batteries use a different, smaller rail and are not compatible with 20V MAX or FLEXVOLT tools. There are no adapters available for cross-use between 12V MAX and 20V MAX systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a DeWalt 20V battery in a 60V tool?
No. Standard 20V MAX batteries cannot power 60V MAX tools. You need a FLEXVOLT battery, which automatically switches to 60V when inserted into a 60V tool.
Can I use a FLEXVOLT battery in my 20V MAX drill?
Yes. FLEXVOLT batteries are fully backwards compatible with all 20V MAX tools. The battery automatically drops to 20V and provides extended runtime thanks to its higher capacity at that voltage.
Are DeWalt 20V MAX and 20V MAX XR batteries interchangeable?
Yes. 20V MAX and 20V MAX XR refer to the tool lines, not the batteries. All 20V MAX batteries (including XR-branded ones) work in all 20V MAX tools. XR batteries typically offer higher capacity (4.0Ah, 5.0Ah, 6.0Ah) compared to standard 20V MAX batteries.
Will FLEXVOLT batteries damage my 20V MAX tools?
No. FLEXVOLT batteries automatically regulate to 20V when used in 20V MAX tools. There is no risk of overvoltage. In fact, using FLEXVOLT batteries can be beneficial as they often provide higher amp-hour capacity at 20V.
Is it worth buying FLEXVOLT batteries for 20V tools?
If you only use 20V MAX tools, standard 20V batteries are more cost-effective. FLEXVOLT batteries make sense if you own (or plan to buy) any 60V or 120V tools, since they work across your entire DeWalt cordless range.
