Ryobi 18V ONE+ 4Ah Lithium-ion Starter Kit with 5" Random Orbit Sander

In my quest for versatile and reliable tools, I recently added the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 4Ah Lithium-ion Starter Kit with 5" Random Orbit Sander to my workshop. This kit, featuring two 4Ah lithium batteries, a charger, and the 5" random orbit sander, promised a mix of power, portability, and convenience. After several projects, I’ve formed a comprehensive opinion on its performance and functionality.

Unboxing and First Impressions

The first thing that struck me was the thoughtful design of the starter kit. The inclusion of two 4Ah batteries and a charger means longer work periods without the constant need for recharging. The batteries are compatible with over 280 Ryobi ONE+ tools, which is a major plus for those already invested in the Ryobi ecosystem. The charger is efficient and identical to the one that came with my Ryobi drill from last year, making it versatile for other tools.

Performance and Power

The standout feature of the sander is its powerful 10,000 orbits per minute (OPM), which translates to a smooth and efficient sanding experience. I used the sander to refurbish a teak veneer dining table, and it cut through the old finish effortlessly, leaving a smooth surface ready for refinishing. The speed is impressive, and the 40% reduced vibration makes it manageable to use for extended periods, even with one hand.

However, the lack of variable speed control can be a limitation. There were moments when I needed a gentler touch to avoid damaging delicate surfaces, and the fixed high speed made this a bit challenging. A variable speed option would provide more control and flexibility for different sanding tasks.

Design and Usability

The random orbit sander is ergonomically designed, fitting comfortably in hand and easy to maneuver. The hook and loop sanding pad system is incredibly convenient, ensuring secure attachment of the sanding discs. I found the grip on the sandpaper to be strong, sometimes even too strong, making it slightly difficult to remove the discs when needed.

One of the most talked-about issues is the dust management system. The sander comes with a dust collection port compatible with 1-1/4" & 1-7/8" hoses. In theory, this should allow for easy connection to a shop vac. However, I encountered significant issues with the dust bag repeatedly falling off during use. This was particularly frustrating when sanding overhead or at an angle, as it resulted in a cloud of sawdust. While the dust collector worked well in some instances, the inconsistent performance made cleanup an additional chore.

Battery Life

The 4Ah batteries included in the kit provide a decent runtime. During my sanding projects, I was able to work for over an hour on a single charge, which is impressive for a cordless tool. The long battery life means fewer interruptions, and having a spare battery fully charged and ready to go is a significant advantage. However, the batteries do take some time to recharge, so having a couple of spares is beneficial if you have an extensive project.

Value for Money

The Ryobi sander offers excellent value for money, especially considering the kit includes two high-capacity batteries and a charger. The sander’s performance is on par with some of the more expensive models on the market. It’s a robust tool capable of handling a variety of sanding tasks, from refurbishing furniture to preparing surfaces for painting.

Areas for Improvement

While the sander performs well overall, there are a few areas where it could be improved:

1. Dust Collection: The dust bag needs a more secure attachment mechanism. A twist-lock design or ridges to hold it in place would prevent it from falling off during use.
2. Variable Speed Control: Adding variable speed control would enhance the tool's versatility, allowing users to adjust the speed for different materials and tasks.
3. Soft Start and Instant Stop: Implementing a soft start and instant stop feature would provide better control and safety during operation.

Conclusion and Recommendation

In conclusion, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 5" Random Orbit Sander is a powerful, well-designed tool that offers excellent value for money. Its high-speed performance, strong battery life, and compatibility with the extensive Ryobi ONE+ system make it a compelling choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.

While there are some shortcomings, particularly with dust collection and the lack of variable speed control, these issues are not deal-breakers. The sander still performs admirably and is capable of handling a wide range of sanding tasks efficiently.

I would recommend the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 5" Random Orbit Sander for anyone looking for a reliable, cordless sanding solution. Its performance, ease of use, and value make it a worthwhile addition to any toolbox. If Ryobi addresses the dust collection issue in future models, this tool could easily become a top-tier option in its category.