Power Tools & Repair

How to shop for power tools and repair supplies online

Decide on platform or standalone. If you already own a major cordless system, check whether a new tool needs its own batteries. Evolution's cordless tools run on their own system, so for those buyers its corded saws may be the better fit. Always check whether a cordless listing is "tool only" or includes a battery and charger, since tool-only prices look far cheaper.

Saws for metal and masonry. Cold-cut chop saws with carbide-tipped blades cut steel with fewer sparks and cleaner, cooler edges than abrasive chop saws, and the blades last longer. Check maximum cut capacity for round and square stock, blade diameter and arbor size, and whether replacement blades are easy to buy. Multi-material saws are convenient for mixed job sites, but buy the right blade for each material; a wood blade on steel is dangerous.

Compact cordless tools. For tire inflators, check maximum PSI, whether it auto-stops at a preset pressure, and how many tires it can fill per charge (car and bike tires differ hugely). For precision electric screwdrivers, look at torque settings and the bit set's coverage of Torx, Pentalobe and tri-wing heads. These tools are for light jobs; warranties often exclude commercial use.

Sealants and waterproofing. Measure the area first and use the coverage rate on the label, which is usually given per liter per coat. Most liquid membranes need two or more coats and a dry weather window. Water-based products are lower odor and easier to clean up but may need longer cure times in cool weather. Ignore crossed-out "was" prices when comparing; our RTT Sealant review flags inflated compare-at prices on that store.

Warranties. Read what is covered. Evolution covers saws and drills for 3 years but excludes blades and accessories. Fanttik covers most items for 12 months, scooters for 6 and line lasers for 2 years. HOTO gives one year and excludes wear parts like brush heads and bits.

Shipping and return traps. Fanttik does not ship to Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico or PO boxes. Evolution charges Alaska and Hawaii a weight-based rate plus a $25 handling fee. Change-of-mind returns usually mean you pay freight, which is costly on a heavy chop saw. Evolution requires the blade to be included with any return.

Budget tiers. $30 to $100 covers precision drivers, inflators and dusters. A quality cold-cut chop saw runs several hundred dollars. Sealant projects scale with roof area, from a single tub for a patch to multiple buckets for a whole gutter run.

Which brand fits which buyer

• Metal fabricators, welders and steel framers who want a cold-cut chop saw: Evolution Power Tools.
• Landscapers and DIYers cutting pavers or concrete: Evolution Power Tools.
• Drivers wanting a trunk-ready tire inflator and car vacuum: Fanttik, if your address is in its service area.
• Renters, electronics hobbyists and gift buyers who want compact, good-looking tools: HOTO.
• Australian and NZ homeowners patching roof or gutter leaks: RTTSealant.