Lowe’s has finally entered the tabless battery race, announcing new Kobalt 24V Max cordless power tool batteries that use advanced tabless cell technology. The move comes several years after competitor Ryobi launched their first tabless offerings, signaling that Kobalt is working to catch up in battery innovation.
What Are Tabless Batteries and Why Do They Matter?
Tabless battery technology represents a meaningful upgrade over traditional tabbed lithium-ion cells. From an engineering perspective, batteries constructed with tabless cells can deliver longer runtime compared to older designs, particularly when powering demanding tools and heavy-duty applications. The difference becomes most apparent when you push your equipment hard, such as driving fasteners all day or cutting through thick materials.
For lighter tasks like using a worklight, radio, or tackling minor projects, the performance gap between tabless and traditional batteries is minimal. Think of it this way: both an endurance runner and a sprinter will complete a short 10-foot walk at nearly identical speeds. The real advantage shows up when the demands increase.
The New Kobalt TXP Lineup
The new Kobalt TXP batteries arrive in two capacity options: 4Ah and 8Ah. According to Lowe’s specifications, the 4Ah model generates up to 1200 watts of power while providing what the retailer claims is the longest runtime of any Kobalt 24V battery. The 8Ah version doubles down, delivering up to 2400 watts and matching that runtime claim.
Both batteries also feature improved charge indicator lights, making it easier to monitor your battery status at a glance. Lowe’s has also indicated that the tabless cells support faster charging capabilities, though specific charger details remain unclear at this time.
Pricing for the new TXP batteries sits at $99 for the 4Ah model and $159 for the 8Ah model. Interestingly, Lowe’s appears to be clearing out older Kobalt Ultimate Output batteries, with previous 4Ah and 8Ah models marked down to $35 and $79 respectively.
Ryobi’s Head Start in Tabless Technology
Ryobi maintains a significant lead in the tabless battery space. The company launched their initial tabless batteries nearly three years ago and has continued expanding the lineup with higher-capacity options released more recently. Ryobi’s focus on battery innovation has helped establish them as the pace-setter in the cordless tool industry. For shoppers comparing battery platforms, Ryobi’s longer track record with tabless technology means more refinement and a wider range of compatible tools.
What This Means for Kobalt Customers
The arrival of Kobalt’s TXP batteries gives existing and prospective customers access to modern battery technology at competitive pricing. The new batteries promise improved performance for demanding applications without requiring users to switch brands entirely. However, some uncertainty remains about the full product roadmap. Lowe’s has not announced whether new Kobalt cordless tools optimized for the higher power output of these batteries are coming, or clarified specifics about faster charging options.
One complication for shoppers involves the recall history. Previous Kobalt 24V Max batteries with USB charging features posed a fire hazard under specific charging conditions, leading to a major recall and subsequent class-action litigation regarding how Lowe’s handled the situation. The new TXP batteries do not include USB charging, avoiding those documented safety concerns. The simpler design may actually be a safer approach for users concerned about battery reliability.
The Bigger Picture
The cordless tool industry continues shifting toward tabless and pouch cell battery technology across multiple brands. Battery innovation remains central to product competitiveness, with manufacturers like Bosch, Skil, and others introducing their own advanced cell designs. Kobalt’s entry into this space shows that Lowe’s recognizes the importance of keeping pace with Ryobi and other competitors.
For home improvement enthusiasts and DIYers, the proliferation of tabless battery options means better performance is becoming the standard rather than a premium feature. That’s good news for your wallet and your productivity on the job.
Should You Upgrade?
If you own Kobalt 24V tools and want improved runtime on demanding projects, the new TXP batteries represent a worthwhile upgrade. The performance gains justify the investment, particularly if you regularly push your tools hard. Casual users tackling lighter projects may find their older batteries adequate for current needs.
As the tabless battery revolution matures across all major brands, competition will likely drive prices down further while improving performance standards. Staying informed about these developments helps you make smarter purchasing decisions for your home workshop.
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