If you're shopping for DeWalt power tools, you've probably come across two battery families that look similar but operate in different leagues: 20V MAX and FlexVolt. The confusion is understandable, as DeWalt uses the same physical casing for both, and both sometimes display "20V" on the label.
At Équipement Polar, we have been distributing DeWalt 20V MAX and FlexVolt batteries in Canada since 1991. This guide explains the real difference between the two platforms, and more importantly, which one to buy based on the tools you already own or plan to add to your collection.
Our Quick Picks
- You only have 20V tools → DCB205 20V MAX 5Ah: $118
- First FlexVolt purchase / mixed use → DCB606 FlexVolt 6Ah: $199
- Best FlexVolt capacity/price ratio → DCB612 FlexVolt 12Ah: $328
- Maximum job site runtime → DCB615 FlexVolt 15Ah: $438
- Best 20V duo for the day → DCB208 20V MAX 8Ah (pair): $328
DeWalt Battery Comparison Table
| Model | Platform | Capacity | Compatible with | Price CAD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DCB205 | 20V MAX | 5 Ah | 20V Tools Only | $118 |
| DCB208 (pair) | 20V MAX | 8 Ah (x2) | 20V Tools Only | $328 |
| DCB606 | FlexVolt | 6 Ah (20V) / 2 Ah (60V) | 20V and 60V Tools | $199 |
| DCB612 | FlexVolt | 12 Ah (20V) / 4 Ah (60V) | 20V and 60V Tools | $328 |
| DCB615 | FlexVolt | 15 Ah (20V) / 5 Ah (60V) | 20V and 60V Tools | $438 |
Prices in Canadian dollars at the time of publication. Check the current price on the product page. Free shipping on orders over $150 across Canada from equipementpolar.com.
Understanding the Two DeWalt Platforms
The 20V MAX Platform
20V MAX has been DeWalt's standard platform for over a decade. It powers the vast majority of their catalog: drills, impact drivers, reciprocating saws, impact wrenches, lights, and a good portion of cordless outdoor power equipment. A 20V MAX battery comes in various capacities, from 1.5 Ah for light tools up to 8 Ah for heavy-duty use.
The FlexVolt System
FlexVolt is a dual-voltage battery technology. The same battery operates at 20V on a standard tool and automatically switches to 60V when installed on a FlexVolt tool (circular saws, grinders, high-power blowers, rotary hammers). The voltage change occurs through the internal cell configuration, without user intervention. In practice, a FlexVolt battery does everything a 20V MAX battery does, plus it can power more powerful tools.
Why the Confusion Exists
Both batteries have the same casing format and clip onto the same 20V tools. There's nothing visually to prevent confusing them. The difference lies in the internal chip and cell configuration, which is invisible to the eye. This is why the exact model (DCB205, DCB606, DCB612, DCB615...) is the only reliable information, not just the "20V" label alone.
Compatibility: One-Way
A 20V MAX battery can only power 20V tools. A FlexVolt battery powers 20V tools AND 60V/120V FlexVolt tools. FlexVolt therefore covers everything 20V covers; the reverse is not true. This is why you can add FlexVolt to an existing 20V collection without buying anything new, but not the other way around.
1. DCB205 — DeWalt 20V MAX 5Ah Battery
The starting point for any DeWalt 20V tool collection. If you're only buying one battery, this is it.
The DCB205 is the most versatile 20V MAX battery in the DeWalt catalog. Its 5 Ah capacity covers most residential needs and light job sites without adding significant weight to the tool. Since it doesn't have the FlexVolt cell configuration, it costs significantly less than a comparable dual-voltage battery.
For an electrician, carpenter, or advanced DIYer equipped with standard 20V tools (drill, impact driver, reciprocating saw), this is the go-to battery: lightweight for tools held for extended periods, and durable enough for half a day of intensive work.
Pros
- Lowest price in the selection — $118
- Compatible with 200+ DeWalt 20V tools
- Lighter than an equivalent FlexVolt battery
- Standard size, easy to find as a replacement
Points to Consider
- Does not work with 60V FlexVolt tools
- 5 Ah might be limited for a full day on a power-hungry tool
Ideal for: Any 100% 20V tool collection — drills, impact drivers, reciprocating saws, lights.
Not ideal for: Those who own or plan to get a 60V FlexVolt tool — see the DCB606 below.
Price: $118
View DCB205 at Polar →2. DCB606 — DeWalt FlexVolt 6Ah Battery
The FlexVolt entry point. The battery to get as soon as a first 60V tool enters your collection.
The DCB606 is the lightest and most affordable FlexVolt battery. It automatically switches to 20V on your standard tools and to 60V on a circular saw, grinder, or FlexVolt rotary hammer. It's the logical choice when a single 60V tool justifies the switch to dual voltage, without wanting to immediately invest in maximum capacity.
Pros
- Lowest FlexVolt entry price — $199
- Also works on all your existing 20V tools
- Lighter than the DCB612 and DCB615
Points to Consider
- Only 2 Ah in 60V mode — limited runtime on power-hungry tools
- For intensive 60V use, the DCB612 or DCB615 will last longer
Ideal for: First FlexVolt tool, occasional 60V use, light mixed 20V/60V collection.
Not ideal for: Intensive 60V job site use all day long — see the DCB612 or DCB615.
Price: $199
View DCB606 at Polar →3. DCB612 — DeWalt FlexVolt 12Ah Battery
The best capacity/price balance in FlexVolt, for those who regularly use a 60V tool.
The DCB612 doubles the 60V capacity of the DCB606 (4 Ah vs. 2 Ah), which significantly reduces stops for recharging on a circular saw or grinder used all day. In 20V mode, its 12 Ah also makes it one of the most durable batteries in the catalog for your standard tools.
Pros
- Doubles 60V runtime compared to DCB606
- 12 Ah in 20V — excellent runtime on standard tools too
- Same price as a pair of 20V DCB208s, but with added 60V compatibility
Points to Consider
- Heavier than the DCB606 — noticeable on tools held for long periods at arm's length
- A 60V fast charger (DCB118) is recommended to avoid long charging times
Ideal for: Regular FlexVolt use — circular saw, grinder, or rotary hammer used several times a week.
Not ideal for: Tools held for long periods overhead where extra weight is a burden — the DCB606 remains lighter.
Price: $328
View DCB612 at Polar →4. DCB615 — DeWalt FlexVolt 15Ah Battery
Maximum runtime in the FlexVolt range, for the most demanding job site days.
The DCB615 is the most durable DeWalt battery available at Polar. On a power-hungry 60V tool — circular saw, high-power blower, rotary hammer — its 5 Ah in 60V mode minimizes stops. This is the preferred option for crews working all day without easy access to a charger.
Pros
- Highest runtime in the FlexVolt range — 15 Ah in 20V, 5 Ah in 60V
- Minimizes interruptions on the job site all day long
- Compatible with the entire 20V and 60V collection
Points to Consider
- Most expensive and heaviest in the selection
- Longer charging time on a standard charger — a DCB118 fast charger is highly recommended
Ideal for: Intensive, all-day job sites, crews wanting to minimize recharging stops.
Not ideal for: Occasional use or tight budget — the DCB606 or DCB612 are sufficient for most uses.
Price: $438
View DCB615 at Polar →Need help choosing?
Our advisors in Quebec City and Chicoutimi know every model in this selection. Free advice, in store or by phone.
Contact Our Experts View All DeWalt Batteries →Which Charger for Which Battery
A standard 12V/20V charger like the DCB115 charges 20V MAX and FlexVolt batteries in 20V mode, but slower for larger capacities. To fully utilize a FlexVolt battery, a 60V compatible fast charger like the DCB118 significantly reduces recharge time.
| Model | Compatible | Type | Price CAD |
|---|---|---|---|
| DCB115 | 12V / 20V | Standard | $35 |
| DCB118 | 20V / 60V | Fast | $99 |
| DCB102 | 12V / 20V | Dual Port | $148 |
| DCB104 | 20V (4 batteries) | Quad Port | $248 |
On a job site with multiple tools in rotation, a DCB102 dual charger or a DCB104 quad charger avoids power outlet queues and always keeps a battery ready.
Which battery to choose based on your usage
You only have 20V tools
Stick with 20V MAX. The DCB205 5 Ah covers most residential and light professional needs, at a lower cost than FlexVolt. There's no advantage in paying for dual voltage if no tool uses it.
You own or plan to get 60V FlexVolt tools
FlexVolt becomes necessary, not optional. A DCB606 or DCB612 powers these tools while remaining usable with your existing 20V fleet.
You are already equipped with 20V and want to add a FlexVolt tool without buying everything new
This is the most common scenario, and the good news is: no need to buy new 20V batteries. Buy one or two FlexVolt batteries dedicated to the 60V tool, and keep your 20V MAX batteries for the rest of your tools. FlexVolt adds to your system; it doesn't replace it.
You work on construction sites all day
Prioritize capacity (Ah) over technology. A DCB615 15 Ah or a pair of DCB208 20V 8 Ah both reduce the number of stops, depending on the tools you use most during the day.
Practical Tip: The model number (DCB2XX for 20V MAX, DCB6XX for FlexVolt) is the only reliable way to distinguish between the two platforms. The "MAX" label alone is not enough, and buying FlexVolt "just in case" for a tool that never uses 60V makes no economic sense.
Ready to choose your DeWalt battery?
Équipement Polar has been distributing DeWalt 20V MAX and FlexVolt batteries since 1991. Free shipping on orders over $150, anywhere in Canada.
View 20V MAX Batteries → View FlexVolt Batteries →FAQ: DeWalt 20V vs FlexVolt Batteries
Yes. A FlexVolt battery automatically switches to 20V mode on a standard 20V tool. No configuration is needed.
No. A FlexVolt tool requires a FlexVolt battery to operate in 60V mode. A standard 20V MAX battery does not have the necessary cell configuration.
No. In 20V mode, a FlexVolt battery delivers the same voltage as a 20V MAX. The tool makes no distinction between the two.
No, unless you are adding 60V tools to your fleet. The two platforms coexist seamlessly: keep your 20V MAX for your current tools, and only add FlexVolt for tools that require it.
For intensive all-day use, aiming for 5 Ah and above in 20V MAX, or 6 Ah and above in FlexVolt, significantly reduces the number of recharges needed.
Équipement Industriel Polar has been distributing DeWalt 20V MAX and FlexVolt batteries since 1991. In-store in Quebec City (3425 Bd Wilfrid-Hamel) and Chicoutimi, or online at equipementpolar.com. Free shipping on orders over $150, anywhere in Canada in 2 to 5 business days.