What Is Different About Milwaukee Power Tools Forge Batteries?

Milwaukee’s M18 Forge batteries use pouch-cell battery technology to deliver more power from a smaller package. In addition, M18 Forge pouch-cell battery construction reduces resistance across its internal connections to deliver higher potential electrical current, longer run time, and cooler operation when charging or under load.

Pouch-cell batteries are just what they sound like — a pouch containing battery chemistry (lithium-ion in this case) instead of it being in a hard case like more familiar batteries. Battery University says pouch-cell battery technology has been around since 1995 and delivers the highest level of packaging efficiency of any battery type. While there is some risk of pouch swelling due to excess gas generation while charging or discharging, it’s mostly mitigated with proper manufacturing techniques.

Milwaukee claims its M18 Red Lithium Forge XC6.0 delivers more power than its M18 High Output HD12.0 battery and provides the “best durability in harsh jobsite environments.” The durability claim stems in large part from its patented ingress coating designed to prevent dust, water, and chemical intrusion into the battery case. Additionally, the Forge battery case is made of upgraded plastic that resists damage caused by common oils, greases, and solvents typically found in workplaces.