Power Tools v/s Hand Tools: Which You Should Choose And Why
When it comes to choosing tools, the market offers a bunch of different options. There are several tools both power and hand tools, for the same purpose. For example, a hammer can be used for fitting a nail, but so can a drill machine.
That brings us to the question, which one is better? Should you go for power tools because they are easy and faster or should you go for hand tools because they provide more control and are cheaper?
Well, we are here to dive into the difference between hand tools and power tools, types of hand tools and types of power tools, advantages and disadvantages of both. So let’s get into it.
What Are Hand Tools?
Hand tools and construction tools that can operate without the use of a battery, cold, compressed air, or any power source. They don’t have a motor and are easy to use and carry around. As it doesn’t require an electric supply, these tools can be used anywhere, at any time and almost by anyone.
Hand Tools As Divided Into Categories
• Holding Tools
1. Clamps
2. Pliers
• Striking Tools
1. Hammers
2. Sledges
• Measuring Tools
1. Measuring Tape
• Cutting Tools
1. Filers
2. Drills
3. Reamers
4. Handsaw
• Sharpening Tools
1. Files
2. Rasps
• Others
1. Screwdriver
2. Wrenches
3. Spanners
4. Allen key
What Are Power Tools?
Power tools as opposed to hand tools can only work with the assistance of an electric supply. This could be in the form of batteries for portable power tools and plugs for non-portable ones. This not only limits where you can use these tools it also limits how long you can use them for, especially the battery-operated ones as you will need to change their batteries regularly.
Power Tools As Divided Into Categories
• Electric Power Tools
1. Impact Wrench
2. Lathe
3. Power drills
a. Impact driver
b. Hammer drill
4. Power Ratchet Set
5. Power Sander
6. Power Saw
a. Band Saw
b. Chain Saw
c. Circular Saw
d. Jigsaw
e. Milter Saw
f. Table Saw
g. Scroll Saw
h. Reciprocating Saw
• Portable Power Tools
1. Circular Saw
2. Jigsaw
3. Heat Guns
4. Nail Guns
5. Side Grinder
6. Wall Chaser
Difference Between Hand Tools And Power Tools
Hand Tool Power Tools
Control More control over the tool Slightly less control over the tool
Speed Slower to complete a task Can complete a task faster
Consistency Is as consistent as the human using it Highly consistent
Power Source No power source is required, can be used with no electricity Cannot be used without an electric power source
Cost Cheaper Expensive
Examples Handsaw, hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches Circular saw, power drills, angle grinder, electric sanders
Advantages and Disadvantages
Hand Tools Power Tools
1. Hand tools are more precise than power tools, especially for small intricate designs a. These tools are powered by an electric source and work at a very great speed to provide the same level of precision
2. They are much quieter than power tools b. As they have an engine, they are constantly buzzing
3. Irrespective of where, when and how long you are using them, they always work c. As they are dependent on either a battery or a power source, they may not be always accessible.
4. The speed of the tools is controlled by the human operating it and as a result it isn’t really hazardous. d. As it operates at a very high speed, there is always space for injury
5. These are lighter in weight and weigh less than 3 pounds e. Depending on which tool you are using these can weigh from 10 pounds and sometimes can also be unmovable.
6. As hand tools work as fast as the human using them, they are very slow f. Power tools in comparison are reasonably fast and can get the work done a lot quicker
7. The construction may get messy. g. They provide clean cuts and easy cleaning
8. They may not be able to cut through tougher or stronger materials h. They can easily cut through anything
9. Humans get tired i. They never get tired
Conclusion
In conclusion, the decision of whether to use power tools or hand tools depends on you. Depending on what you want to create, you can choose either of the two.
