The big pro of battery is portability and the cons are upfront cost, upkeep of batteries and eventual replacement. If you travel, use it frequently, and all over your worksite it can definitely be worth it. If it's just for infrequent garage projects and occasionally helping at a friends house I think the cost and reliability of a cord could be the better value. If you're getting into the hobby and doing finish work, a table saw with a good fence may be your best investment.