Which STIHL Battery System Is Right for You?

STIHL offers a full range of cordless tools to suit every type of user — from occasional gardeners to professional landscapers. With low noise, zero emissions, and no fuel hassle, battery power is the future of outdoor work. But with four different STIHL battery systems to choose from, how do you know which one to pick?

This guide compares the four STIHL platforms — AI Line, AS System, Stihl AK Battery System, and Stihl AP Cordless Range — to help you choose the right one for your needs. We break down how they differ on power, runtime, charging, and compatibility.

AI Line: Simple Tools with Built-In Batteries

For light, occasional garden tasks

The AI Line is STIHL’s entry-level cordless range. Each tool has an integrated 18V battery built in — just plug in the cable to charge. No removable batteries, no extras to buy.

• Quiet and lightweight
• Simple one-plug charging
• Ideal for grass edging, light hedge trimming, and small clean-ups

AS System: Compact Power with Swappable Batteries

For pruning, shaping, and detail work

The AS System gives you more flexibility than the AI Line, with removable AS 2 batteries and a compact charger. It’s still easy to use but better suited to frequent trimming, pruning, and topiary.

• Removable AS 2 battery
• Quick swap and LED charge status
• Only compatible with AS tools and charger

Stihl AK Battery System: More Power for Larger Gardens

For regular garden maintenance and bigger spaces

The AK System features 36V lithium-ion batteries (AK 10, 20, 30) that work across a wide range of garden tools — including mowers, chainsaws, trimmers, and blowers.

• One battery fits all AK tools
• Great for medium to large gardens
• Shares chargers with the Stihl AP Cordless Range

Stihl AP Cordless Range: Heavy-Duty Tools for Professional Use

For landscapers, contractors, and serious workloads

The AP System is built for commercial use. It offers the highest performance, longest runtimes, and widest tool range — with over 30 pro-grade models available. Backpack battery options extend runtime even further.

• 36V batteries: AP 200, AP 300, AP 300 S, AP 500 S
• Interchangeable across the full AP tool range
• Shares chargers with the Stihl AK Battery System (AL 301, AL 500), plus AL 301-4

Battery and Charger Compatibility

Know what works with what

Each system uses its own battery type. AK and AP batteries are not cross-compatible with other systems, but they do share chargers — making it easier to manage tools if you’re using both systems.

• AL 101 – AK only
• AL 301 / AL 500 – Both AK and AP
• AL 301-4 – AP only (multi-slot)
• AS System – Uses its own charger
• AI Line – Built-in batteries with integrated chargers

Quick Guide: Which STIHL Battery System to Buy

• Small gardens or light use: Cordless AI Line
• Pruning and compact handheld tools: STIHL AS Tool Range
• All-round garden tools with more power: Stihl AK Battery Tools
• Daily commercial use: Stihl AP Professional Tools

Shop STIHL Battery Tools

View the Stihl range here, we stock the complete STIHL cordless tool range — from compact pruners to pro-grade mowers. Need help choosing the right battery setup? Our team can help match your workload with the right tools and batteries.

Final Thoughts

STIHL battery tools are cleaner, quieter, and easier to maintain than petrol. Whether you’re cutting a hedge or maintaining a large estate, there’s a STIHL battery system that fits. Choose your platform, match your battery, and get to work.