If you own cordless tools from multiple brands, you’re probably buying duplicate batteries for each platform. Battery adapters solve this problem by letting you use a Makita battery in a DeWalt tool, or a Milwaukee battery in a Ryobi drill, without buying new cells. This guide covers everything you need to know about cross-brand adapters: which combinations work, the best products to buy, and whether they’re actually worth using on the job.
Battery adapters are the missing link between the major platforms. For less than £25, you can unlock your entire battery collection across brands. Whether you’re a tradesperson with tools from multiple manufacturers or a DIYer who’s accumulated kit over years, adapters let you rationalise your battery spend and reduce clutter in the van or workshop.
Browse Power Tool Battery Adapters on Amazon
How Battery Adapters Work
A battery adapter is a simple mechanical clip: one end accepts a battery from one brand (say, a Makita 18V LXT pack), and the other end presents a connector that fits another brand’s tool (a DeWalt 20V MAX drill). The battery slides into the clip, makes contact with two metal terminals, and delivers power to the tool. Remove the battery from the adapter when you’re done — the adapter sits dormant until you need it again.
Adapters are tool-use only. You cannot charge a battery through an adapter, and you should never attempt to. The clip is purely mechanical; it doesn’t regulate voltage or current, so both tools and batteries must be compatible in terms of voltage and connector type. The good news is that 18V (Makita, Ryobi, Bosch) and 20V MAX (DeWalt, Craftsman) systems are essentially the same voltage — approximately 18–20V when fully charged — so cross-platform adapters between these families are safe and common.
Quick Compatibility Matrix
| From Battery | To Tool | Adapter Available | Typical Price | Detailed Guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makita 18V LXT | DeWalt 20V MAX | Yes | £16–25 | Makita to DeWalt Adapter |
| DeWalt 20V MAX | Makita 18V LXT | Yes | £16–25 | DeWalt to Makita Adapter |
| DeWalt 20V MAX | Milwaukee M18 | Yes | £17–25 | DeWalt to Milwaukee Adapter |
| Milwaukee M18 | DeWalt 20V MAX | Yes | £17–25 | Milwaukee to DeWalt Adapter |
| Milwaukee M18 | Makita 18V LXT | Yes | £17–25 | Milwaukee to Makita Adapter |
| Makita 18V LXT | Milwaukee M18 | Yes | £17–25 | Makita to Milwaukee Adapter |
| Makita 18V LXT | Ryobi ONE+ 18V | Yes | £17–25 | Makita to Ryobi Adapter |
| DeWalt 20V MAX | Ryobi ONE+ 18V | Yes | £17–24 | DeWalt to Ryobi Adapter |
Best Battery Adapters by Brand
Makita Battery Adapters
Makita 18V LXT batteries are popular across the trade and DIY. If you want to use Makita batteries in DeWalt, Milwaukee, or Ryobi tools, adapters are readily available. See our Makita 18V LXT platform page for full compatibility details.
DeWalt Battery Adapters
DeWalt 20V MAX is the largest platform by market share in the UK. Adapters give you instant compatibility with Makita, Milwaukee, or Ryobi tasks. Visit our DeWalt 20V MAX compatibility page for details.
Milwaukee Battery Adapters
Milwaukee M18 is premium kit. Adapters let you expand your Milwaukee batteries across Makita, DeWalt, and Ryobi platforms. Details on our Milwaukee M18 platform page.
Ryobi Battery Adapters
Ryobi ONE+ 18V is the budget-friendly platform. Adapters work mainly in one direction — from Makita or DeWalt into Ryobi tools.
What to Look for in a Battery Adapter
Build Quality: Look for ABS plastic and brass or plated steel contacts. The clip should feel solid with no flex or wobble when a battery is inserted.
Secure Fit: Push the battery in fully. It should seat with a distinct click or friction. If it wiggles, the adapter won’t deliver consistent power.
Current Rating: A quality adapter should handle at least 10A continuous current, ideally 15A.
Safety Features: Premium adapters include overcurrent protection, overheat sensors, or thermal fuses.
Bonus Features: Some adapters include a USB output port for charging your phone on site.
Safety Warnings & Limitations
Never charge batteries through an adapter. The adapter clip is not designed for charging circuits. Always remove the battery and charge it in a dedicated charger.
Not suitable for highest-draw tools. Large angle grinders and reciprocating saws can draw 20A+ under load. Reserve adapters for moderate-draw tools like drills and small circular saws.
Check seating before use. A loose connection will cause voltage sag and tool shut-off mid-task.
Remove the battery when not in use. Adapters don’t have the thermal management that tool bodies do.
Third-party products — use at your own risk. Manufacturers will not warranty damage caused by adapter use.
Badaptor vs Generic Adapters
Badaptor is a UK-made premium brand with a lifetime warranty. Price: £23–29 per unit. Generic adapters from Amazon start at £16–22. For professional use, Badaptor is worth the premium.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are battery adapters safe to use?
Yes, if they’re well-made and used correctly. Premium brands like Badaptor are tested and warrantied.
Can I charge batteries through an adapter?
No. Never attempt to charge a battery through an adapter. Always use a dedicated charger.
Do adapters work with high-power tools?
It depends on the adapter’s current rating. Reserve budget adapters for moderate-draw tools like drills.
Will using an adapter void my tool warranty?
Technically, yes — using third-party accessories can affect warranty terms. It’s an at-your-own-risk decision.
What’s the difference between 18V and 20V MAX?
Practically nothing. Both are approximately 18–20V. The adapters exist because of different connector designs, not voltage incompatibility.
Are Badaptor adapters worth the extra cost?
For professional or frequent use, yes. A £25 Badaptor comes with a lifetime warranty.
Can I use a Ryobi battery in a Makita tool?
Yes, with the correct adapter. See our Makita 18V LXT compatibility guide for details.
Do battery adapters reduce performance?
Minimally, if the adapter is well-made. A quality adapter adds negligible voltage drop.
Related Guides
Makita 18V LXT Battery Compatibility | DeWalt 20V MAX Battery Compatibility | Milwaukee M18 Battery Compatibility
