What does a power tool's "no-load speed" indicate?

A power tool's "no-load speed" is defined as the maximum speed the tool can reach when it is operating without any load or resistance applied to it. This measurement is crucial because it reveals the tool's potential performance capability, allowing users to understand how fast the tool can run when not impeded by the material it is cutting, drilling, or otherwise interacting with.

Knowing the no-load speed helps in evaluating the power tool's specifications and allows users to select the right tool for specific tasks. For instance, tools with higher no-load speeds are often better suited for quick cuts in softer materials and may not be ideal for harder materials where slower speeds may be required to maintain control and efficiency.

The other possible answers represent different concepts in the context of power tools, such as operational speeds under load or during regular use, but they do not define what the no-load speed is specifically.