If you are in the market for power tools, you have likely come across Porter-Cable. They are a power tool manufacturer and one of the biggest brand names in the industry, especially when it comes to durable and reliable power tools for mid-level users.
It is widely popular among homeowners, DIYers, enthusiasts, and other average users. They are also favored by metalworkers and woodworkers who have low to average workloads.
However, looking through the various brands in the market, you may have asked yourself, “Is Porter-Cable a good power tool brand?”
We will answer this question in this post by looking at some key factors that make offerings from this power tool brand worth your money.
Is Porter-Cable a Good Power Tool Brand?
Generally, Porter-Cable is regarded as one of the top brands for mid-level power tool requirements at competitive pricing. So, whether you are a woodworker, homeowner, repairperson, DIYer, or enthusiast, Porter-Cable is a good power tool brand for entry to mid-level workload requirements.
However, if your requirements exceed average usage, or if you are a commercial contractor with professional needs, you will find better, more powerful, and lasting options elsewhere. The Porter-Cable brand and its power tools are a great option for everyone else.
Let’s dive deeper into some key factors and categories to help you better understand how.
● Quality
Porter-Cable has done a decent job maintaining quality at low, pocket-friendly pricing. The low pricing is a major reason for Porter-Cable being a great power tool brand for most non-professionals. Even when compared to competitors in the market, Porter-Cable comes on top for quality at this budget.
This key factor makes their line of power tools great for the light and average user. However, you cannot expect the highest quality from Porter-Cable, because it isn’t possible at their price point.
● Manufacturing
Porter-Cable used to make most of their power tools in Tennessee. However, the brand’s position changed over time, and today, they produce a vast majority of its products in Mexico and China. This is partly how they can maintain decent quality at low pricing.
● Design
The overall lineup of Porter-Cable power tools provides an ergonomic, lightweight design that is easy to hold and maneuver. They don’t offer abundant features; however, the ones they do are great for the intended functions.
While design is mostly subjective and depends on your own preferences, we believe Porter-Cable power tools are well-designed, especially when considering competitor options at a similar budget.
● Durability and Reliability
Porter-Cable power tools are designed for the average user with low to mid-level workload requirements. If you use these tools as they are intended, you will find they are durable and reliable. However, you cannot expect them to last long if you use them for daily high-level workloads.
Overuse for heavy-duty tasks, especially daily use, will result in greater wear and ultimately damage Porter-Cable power tools within a year. When used for mid-level workloads, the power tools are plenty reliable and will last you a few decent years before you need replacements.
Considering the price of Porter-Cable power tools, this makes sense. You get good value for money so long as you don’t overuse or overload them.
● Range of Power Tools
Porter-Cable exclusively focuses on power tools (with a few exceptions), which is why they have a great range for you to choose from. Their power tools can be broadly categorized into corded and cordless tools for metalworking and woodworking.
They have a wide range of corded options for all the power tools you’d expect to be corded. This Porter-Cable 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench is a perfect example of such corded options.
However, Porter-Cable has a much larger variety of cordless power tools, which seems to be their main focus. This makes sense because they are targeting the average user who doesn’t need too much power and prefers the mobility of a cordless option.
Throughout their lineups, you will see they have at least twice as many cordless power tool options for every corded option they offer.
You’ll also find a wide range of cordless drills, brad nailers, saws, etc. Here are a few examples of their most popular cordless options.
All-in-all, you have plenty of variety and a comprehensive selection of power tools for metalworking, woodworking, or DIYing.
Battery System
The mobility and power for Porter-Cable cordless power tools come from their lithium-ion 20V Max Cordless battery system, compatible with all their cordless products.
From their impact wrenches and drivers to saws, drills, combo kits, and even some oscillating tools, these batteries will work with all tools. They are fairly solid, and average users won’t have to worry about running out of power before finishing their tasks.
You typically get one battery with every purchase of a cordless power tool. However, you can always buy a few extra if you feel the need.
● Warranty
Most Porter-Cable power tools come with a one-year limited warranty, which you should expect when buying mid-level power tools. If the power tools break due to underlying issues or faults, Porter-Cable offers free service for a full year after the date of purchase.
Some more expensive and powerful options come with a three-year limited warranty, which is standard for more expensive power tools. Moreover, Porter-Cable offers a 90-day money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with their product, which is great if you want to test their tools.
Our Final Thoughts
By now, you should have a good answer to the question, “Is Porter-Cable a good power tool brand?” It isn’t the best power tool brand out there, nor is it the most expensive. However, it is great for the average user.
Ultimately, it all depends on your needs. If you need a wide range of lightweight, quality, functional power tools for entry to mid-level use at affordable pricing, Porter-Cable is a great brand to consider, especially if you want cordless power tools for light woodworking or metalworking.
You get decent quality, normal warranty, fair durability, and good reliability at favorable pricing with this brand. This is a unique combination of selling points that you won’t easily find with competitors, making Porter-Cable so popular among DIYers, homeowners, and average users.
