What Is the STIHL AP Battery System?

The AP System is STIHL’s professional-grade cordless tool range. Unlike entry-level garden battery tools, the AP lineup uses high-capacity, removable 36V batteries engineered for day-long use. Tools across the range share the same battery platform, reducing downtime and simplifying fleet management for commercial users.

Who Should Use the AP System?

This system is aimed at contractors, councils, and landscape professionals who need consistent power, quiet operation, and freedom from petrol. It's ideal for use in public spaces, schools, hospitals, or residential areas where noise and emissions matter. For domestic users with medium gardens or lighter needs, the STIHL AK System is a better fit.

Core Benefits

AP tools deliver constant power throughout the discharge cycle — meaning no slow fade as the battery runs down. They're also IPX4-rated for splash protection, making them suitable for year-round work. With no fuel, fumes, or engine maintenance, the AP System offers a cleaner, quieter way to work without compromising on output.

Battery Options and Performance

The AP System includes several battery sizes to match different workloads and tools. Each battery is interchangeable across the AP range, meaning one charge source can power everything from a hedge trimmer to a cut-off saw.

Compatible Tools in the AP System

The STIHL AP range includes over 30 cordless tools designed for professional use. This includes high-performance chainsaws like the MSA 220 C-B, brushcutters such as the FSA 135, hedge trimmers, blowers, mowers, pole pruners, and even the TSA 230 cut-off saw. All are built for daily workloads and harsh environments.

AP Battery Runtimes

AR Battery Runtimes

Battery Charging Options & Times

Fast charging helps keep you moving. The AL 301 is a reliable workhorse for single batteries, while the AL 301-4 charges up to four batteries in rotation — ideal for team setups. The AL 500 is the fastest charger in the range, perfect for topping up during short breaks.

The AL 101 and AL 301 chargers are also used with the AK range. This shared charging setup is useful for users running both systems on the same site or across multiple tools.

AP 20 and AP 30: Bridging Entry-Level to Professional

The new AP 20 and AP 30 batteries introduce a genuine entry point to the AP System without sacrificing build quality or core features. These batteries are lighter and more affordable, making them ideal for ambitious domestic users and semi-professionals who want to start with a STIHL pro-grade platform. With the same IPX4 certification, constant power output, and proven STIHL battery quality, they set a strong foundation for users who may upgrade to higher capacity batteries like the AP 300 S or AP 500 S as their needs grow.

This approach means you can invest in AP tools early, using an AP 20 or AP 30 for smaller tasks, and scale up to more powerful batteries when tackling heavier work — all without changing your tool lineup. It’s a flexible, future-proof way to enter the professional cordless market.

Upgrade to Higher Capacity Batteries

When you’re ready to take on longer shifts and more demanding tools, STIHL offers larger capacity batteries designed for serious professional use. The AP 200 S, AP 300 S, and AP 500 S provide higher energy content and greater maximum power output. These models include STIHL Connected functionality, allowing you to track battery health and usage data to optimise your fleet and avoid downtime.

If you need maximum runtime and torque, the AP 500 S sits at the top of the range. Designed for the toughest jobs, it’s ideal for all-day professional workloads without compromise.

Is the AP System Worth It?

If you need petrol-like power in a cordless format, the STIHL AP System is one of the most advanced platforms available. It's designed for commercial environments where reliability, performance, and total cost of ownership matter. While the initial investment is higher, the running costs are significantly lower than petrol, with fewer maintenance needs and no fuel storage issues.

What Is the STIHL AR Battery System?

The STIHL AR System is built for professionals who need extended runtimes and higher energy capacity than handheld batteries can provide. Featuring high-capacity backpack batteries like the AR 2000 L and AR 3000 L, this system powers all tools in the AP range but is ideal for energy-hungry equipment such as blowers, hedge trimmers, brushcutters, and cut-off saws. With up to 1,500 Wh of stored power, AR batteries are perfect for long days on-site without needing to swap or recharge. A durable carry frame and IPX4-rated weather protection make the AR System a top choice for heavy-duty outdoor work.

What we think

The STIHL AP System is a future-proof choice for professionals moving away from petrol without sacrificing performance. With rugged tools, intelligent battery tech, and a wide range of compatible models, it's an ideal system for serious outdoor work.

Frequently Asked Questions About the STIHL AP Battery System