Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Whisper Series 15" String Trimmer

There’s something unmistakably appealing about tackling yard work with a tool that combines power, efficiency, and quiet operation. The Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Whisper Series 15" String Trimmer, hereafter referred to as the Ryobi String Trimmer, brings a modern twist to the traditional string trimmer, making it an attractive choice for both casual gardeners and more serious yard enthusiasts. My experience using this trimmer has been largely positive, with a handful of notable caveats.

First impressions are often telling, and assembling the Ryobi String Trimmer was a breeze. The included instructions were clear, and all necessary components were present. The build quality felt robust, though not overly heavy, making it manageable even during extended use. One standout feature is the brushless motor, a significant upgrade over traditional models. This motor not only promises enhanced power and durability but also lives up to these claims in real-world use. The ability to adjust the cutting width between 13 inches and 15 inches adds a layer of flexibility that I found particularly useful for different types of trimming tasks around my yard.

One of the most impressive aspects of this trimmer is its quiet operation. Ryobi’s Whisper Series branding isn’t just marketing fluff; the trimmer genuinely operates at a lower decibel level compared to many gas-powered alternatives. This is a game-changer if you’re sensitive to noise or need to avoid disturbing neighbors. Even at higher speeds, the noise level remained comfortable, and I could easily have a conversation without shouting.

Power and performance are where the Ryobi String Trimmer shines. It effortlessly handled everything from thick, stubborn weeds to delicate grass edges. The .080" dual line provides a good balance of cutting power and durability. The bump feed head, dubbed REEL EASY+, simplifies the task of reloading the line. While it’s not flawless and sometimes required a couple of attempts to advance the string, it was generally more reliable and less frustrating than other systems I’ve used in the past.

Using the trimmer for extended periods, I did notice a bit of arm fatigue, primarily due to the weight distribution. The motor being located at the head makes the unit somewhat front-heavy, which could be tiring for some users, especially when working on larger areas. However, the lightweight design overall balances this out to some extent. The front handle is adjustable and provides a comfortable grip, though a shoulder strap option could have further alleviated the weight issue.

Battery life is a critical factor for any cordless tool, and the 6.0 Ah battery provided with this trimmer offers respectable performance. For regular home use, one full charge was more than enough to handle my average-sized yard. The 18V ONE+ system’s compatibility means I could swap out batteries from other Ryobi tools, which is a convenient feature. However, during more demanding tasks or prolonged use, I found that having a couple of spare batteries was necessary to avoid interruptions. The power-hungry nature of the brushless motor is a double-edged sword; while it provides excellent cutting power, it does drain the battery relatively quickly.

Durability is a mixed bag with the Ryobi String Trimmer. While the motor and main body seem built to last, the head and bump feed mechanism felt less sturdy. I encountered issues with the string breaking off inside the spool a few times, which required me to disassemble the head to fix it. This process was not overly complicated, but it was inconvenient and disrupted my workflow. Given that I’ve only used the trimmer for a few months, I’m cautiously optimistic about its long-term durability but mindful of these potential weak points.

One aspect that might not be immediately evident is the trimmer’s versatility. While primarily designed for trimming, its performance in edging tasks was commendable. By flipping the trimmer upside down, I could achieve clean edges along walkways and flower beds. The straight shaft design contributes to this versatility, though it might feel awkward initially until you get used to the balance and weight distribution.

Safety features are often overlooked but crucial. The Ryobi String Trimmer includes a decent-sized guard that provides adequate protection from flying debris. I would recommend wearing safety glasses and long pants, as the shield, though effective, does allow some debris to escape, especially when tackling thicker vegetation.

In conclusion, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Whisper Series 15" String Trimmer is a solid performer that brings several modern conveniences to the table. Its quiet operation, powerful brushless motor, and ease of use make it an appealing choice for those looking to transition from gas-powered to cordless trimmers. The compatibility with the 18V ONE+ battery system is a significant advantage, ensuring that you can seamlessly integrate it with other Ryobi tools.

However, the trimmer is not without its shortcomings. The front-heavy design can lead to fatigue during extended use, and the durability of the head and bump feed mechanism raises some concerns. Additionally, the power consumption means that you’ll need to have spare batteries on hand for larger jobs.

Would I recommend the Ryobi String Trimmer? Yes, but with reservations. If you have a modest-sized yard and value quiet operation and ease of use, this trimmer is an excellent choice. For those with larger properties or who demand exceptional durability, it might be worth considering other options or keeping a close eye on the trimmer’s wear and tear over time. Overall, the Ryobi String Trimmer strikes a good balance between power, convenience, and noise reduction, making it a worthy addition to the modern gardener’s toolkit.