I have the older model 8″ w\o the rechargable battery,being able to drill holes inside wheelhouse w/o having to open windows & door was my reason for buying electric. Must have good blades.On a trip to Red last Feb. a friend brought the new style rechargable he got for x-mas along and we decided to give it a test. He cut all eight holes in my house, ice was 36″+, would a gas auger have been faster? YES,but the elec. rechargable did cut those eight holes. Hope this gives you an idea for comparison.