Tools are so specialized now that there isn't a best brand for all, but there are certainly best brands for each tool. If one wanted to go with a single brand because of the ability to swap batteries and handles, etc - i'd suggest:
BOSCH - they are the best at a few things and very good at the rest. They make everything.
or
RIDGID - they aren't exceptional at anything, but are good to very good at everything. Assuming this is for light to moderate projects and maintenance - you can't go wrong with Ridgid and the deal sealer for them is the life-time warranty on everything...including batteries. Because it's all at Home Depot - you don't have to write emails or mail things - you just bring in the tool or battery and they'll either fix or replace.
@Gord - I've had a DeWalt Table Saw. I can't say it was terrible, but I wouldn't buy another. Blade changing; particularly adding Dado's is more difficult than it needs to be. Peripherals were poor to average in quality. I've moved onto a Bosch with Gravity Rise stand. So so slick and when space is a concern - this is the way to go. You can take it anywhere quickly and easily. As usual - the peripherals (extensions, etc) are just OK, but blade changing, power, and the stand are exceptional.
I'm going to an auction tonight - tons of Grizzly tools. Band saw, planer, big stuff. These auctions are the best - 90% of the buyers don't have the manpower or vehicles to even transport these larger machines - so you're often only bidding against 2-3 people and once they buy one or two big things, they're done.
