What is the STIHL AP System?

The AP System is STIHL’s established 36V professional battery platform. It covers chainsaws, hedge trimmers, brushcutters, blowers, pole pruners, lawn mowers, pressure washers, vacuums and other professional cordless equipment.

The main benefit is being able to use compatible batteries across a broad working range. Rather than buying into a different battery platform for every tool, you can build a setup around the machines, batteries and chargers that suit your workload.

How does STIHL ALLPRO fit into the AP System?

ALLPRO is the latest development of STIHL’s professional battery range rather than a completely separate and incompatible system. The new ALLPRO batteries can be used across compatible AP tools and chargers, while new ALLPRO-compatible tools remain part of the wider professional AP platform.

The main improvements are found in the new ALLPRO Performance batteries. Depending on the battery and charger used, these can offer higher power output, faster charging, reduced heat build-up, improved wet-weather protection and a longer working life.

Visit our STIHL ALLPRO System page to view the latest batteries, chargers and ALLPRO products.

Who is the AP System for?

The AP range is aimed mainly at professional users and serious owners who need cordless tools capable of regular work. It makes particular sense for landscapers, grounds teams, contractors and larger property owners who want professional performance without relying entirely on petrol equipment.

Battery tools are especially useful where noise, exhaust fumes, fuel storage or maintenance are a concern. They can also be easier to start, transport and use across several shorter jobs during the day.

For lighter gardening around the home, the STIHL AK System will usually be the more suitable and affordable option. The AP System sits above the AK range in performance, tool choice and price.

Why choose the STIHL AP System?

• Professional cordless tools designed for regular use
• One compatible battery platform across a wide range of machines
• Choice of batteries to balance weight, runtime, output and price
• Quieter operation for public, commercial and residential areas
• No fuel mixing and fewer day-to-day servicing requirements than petrol tools
• Compatibility with the newer STIHL ALLPRO battery range

Choosing the right AP battery

The biggest battery is not automatically the best choice. A larger battery may provide more runtime or support a higher-demand tool, but it also adds weight and cost. For lighter machines such as hedge trimmers, a smaller battery can make the tool easier to handle throughout the day.

For chainsaws, blowers, brushcutters and other high-output equipment, the recommended battery matters more. A battery with insufficient output may limit the tool’s performance, even if it physically fits.

Check the recommended battery for the individual machine rather than choosing on capacity alone. You can also start with one or two suitable batteries and add more as your workload or tool collection grows.

Existing AP batteries or new ALLPRO batteries?

Existing AP batteries remain a practical choice for compatible tools and do not need replacing simply because ALLPRO has launched. Users who already own AP batteries can continue building around the same professional platform.

The newer ALLPRO batteries make the most sense where faster charging, higher output or intensive daily use justify the additional investment. The greatest improvements are provided by the ALLPRO Performance batteries rather than every battery carrying the ALLPRO name.

For a closer comparison, see our STIHL ALLPRO battery range.

AP batteries and AR backpack batteries

Most AP System users will be choosing between standard insert batteries and larger AR backpack batteries. Insert batteries are the simpler and more flexible choice for general professional work, particularly when moving between several different tools.

AR backpack batteries are intended for extended working times with compatible high-demand equipment. They can make sense for prolonged use of blowers, hedge trimmers, brushcutters and other machines where repeatedly stopping to change batteries would slow the job down.

For most users starting with the AP System, standard insert batteries offer the easiest and most versatile setup. An AR battery becomes more useful when long uninterrupted runtime is the main priority.

Charging and day-to-day use

Choosing the charger is just as important as choosing the battery. Occasional users may only need a standard charger, while professional teams may benefit from rapid chargers, multi-battery chargers or the newer ALLPRO high-speed charging options.

The fastest advertised ALLPRO charging times require specific Performance batteries, the correct high-speed charger and suitable battery temperatures. Existing AP chargers remain compatible, but they will not provide the maximum ALLPRO charging speed.

Consider how many tools will be running, how frequently batteries will be changed and whether charging is available during the working day. A well-planned battery and charger setup can be more useful than simply buying the largest available battery.

Is the STIHL AP System worth it?

If you use your tools regularly and want professional cordless equipment that can replace petrol for a meaningful part of your workload, the AP System is worth considering. It provides a wide tool range, several battery options and a platform that can grow as your requirements change.

The initial cost is higher than STIHL’s domestic battery ranges, but the AP System is built for a different level of work. Existing compatibility with the new ALLPRO generation also means users can access newer battery technology without abandoning their current AP tools and chargers.

If you only need occasional tools for a smaller garden, the AP System may be more equipment than you need. For professional users, larger properties and demanding workloads, it remains STIHL’s main cordless platform.

Frequently Asked Questions About the STIHL AP Battery System