Why it's best to avoid using counterfeit and knockoff batteries

Key Takeaways

• Purchasing from an authorized reseller is the only way to avoid counterfeit batteries
• Counterfeit and knockoffs offer lower run times, lack basic safety features, and can void your tool's warranty
• Price may be lower up front, but overall value is far worse due to potential problems

You may have come across listings on eBay or Amazon for cheap batteries and chargers produced by third-party manufacturers that are designed to work with popular tool brands. They cost a fraction of what the standard OEM models do, all while claiming to be fully compatible with each brand's primary line of tools and accessories.

Counterfeit or knockoff power tool batteries might seem like a bargain, but they come with serious risks that could endanger both your tools and your safety. These imitation batteries are often made with substandard materials and lack the rigorous quality control of genuine products, increasing the chances of overheating, fire, or even explosion.

Additionally, counterfeit batteries can damage your power tools by delivering inconsistent power or causing electrical malfunctions. Choosing authentic, manufacturer-approved batteries is essential to ensure reliable performance and avoid costly - or dangerous - consequences.

With prices as much as 60% lower than manufacturer OEM battieres, these imitation power supplies seem like a great value based on just the price alone. For example, Milwaukee's standard M18 REDLITHIUM 2.0Ah Compact Battery Pack goes for $100, while its similar counterfeit can be purchased for as low as $40 on the net.

Saving that much on a battery sure is enticing, and for some, it may be the only way to get a replacement battery. The problem, however, is that these aftermarket options aren't held to the same regulations and standards that OEM products are.

The manufacturers of these knock-offs use cheaper materials to bring the prices down, they can downright ignore established safety standards altogether. The research and development done by the majors brands to ensure each battery performs as it should goes out the window.

Purchasing a battery at a fraction of the price may seem smart, but with what your sacrificing, the gamble of going with a counterfeit or knockoff battery just isn't worth it. You've already spent so much on your tools, are you really willing to risk damaging them?

Yes, these alternatives can technically power the tools they are designed for, and in some cases perform well enough to do the job. Put these knockoffs unders serious testing, however, and the cracks start to show with low run times, unstable power delivery, and a myriad of other performance issues.

Not only are these batteries constructed with lower quality materials, the rigorous testing and safety features found on standard OEM models are completely ignored in most cases. Power delivery regulation, cell life and quality, and even the durability is comprimised with these alternatives.

This can potentially cause of damage to your tools to start, but can lead to serious bodily injury if the battery decides to overvolt during use. These imitations have been known to short circuit and even catch fire during use - a dangerous outcome you'll want to avoid!

Add to that the potential of voiding your warranty when you use knockoff or counterfeit batteries, and you may be out more than just the price of a new battery. Most manufacturers won't honor your tool's warranty if it's fried by an unauthorized power source.

Making matters worse, the counterfeit batteries are specifically designed to look identical to the OEM models. So if you see an insane deal for OEM batteries or chargers on marketplaces like Amazon or eBay, be wary.

Prices can be expensive for new batteries produced by the original manufacturer, but you get exactly what you pay for. Not only are OEM models tested for maximum efficiency and compatibility with their respective tools, almost all have some sort of replacement warranty that makes it easy to get a new one if something goes wrong.

Plus, The Tool Nut regularly runs promotions that take upwards of 40% off select batteries. Keep an eye on our deals hub for the latest deals on batteries and chargers, but be sure to keep an eye out for our annual Battery Blowout savings event every January!

While The Tool Nut never recommends purchasing or using knockoff batteries for your tools, and we only source our products directly from the original manufacturers. However, if you still feel like taking the risk and going with the cheaper knock-off option, always do some incremental testing before you go full load with your tools.

This can at least help you avoid potential battery chemistry issues from destroying your tool - or something much more valuable.