Ryobi 18V ONE+ Stick Vacuum Kit

Investing in a cordless vacuum can significantly change the way you approach household cleaning tasks, especially when the vacuum is part of a versatile system like Ryobi's 18V ONE+ lineup. Owning a Ryobi 18V ONE+ Stick Vacuum Kit (PCL720K) has been a mixed bag of experiences, but it ultimately offers substantial convenience and functionality, albeit with some notable shortcomings.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing you notice is its sleek, self-standing design. This is a major plus as it allows you to pause your cleaning without having to lean the vacuum against a wall or piece of furniture. The vacuum's build feels sturdy, though it is somewhat top-heavy due to the placement of the battery and motor at the top. This can make prolonged use a bit tiring, particularly when using it in handheld mode.

The LED lights on the roller bar are a thoughtful addition, illuminating dust and debris in dark corners. However, these lights only function when the roller brush is engaged, which seems like a missed opportunity for those who might want to vacuum without the brush, perhaps on delicate flooring.

Performance

Suction power is one of the most critical aspects of any vacuum, and the Ryobi 18V ONE+ does a respectable job here. It offers two suction settings: an economy mode and a full-power mode. While the economy mode extends battery life, its suction is quite weak. The full-power mode is far more effective and does a good job of picking up debris from both carpets and hard floors. However, it still doesn't quite match the performance of a corded vacuum.

The vacuum's ability to convert into a handheld unit is another highlight. This feature is particularly useful for cleaning stairs, cars, and tight spaces. However, the attachment of accessories like the crevice tool and dust brush requires the use of an extension wand, which can be a bit cumbersome.

Battery Life

Battery life is a common concern with cordless vacuums, and the Ryobi 18V ONE+ is no exception. The kit includes a 4Ah battery, which provides a decent runtime but may not be sufficient for larger cleaning tasks. If you already own other Ryobi 18V tools, you can swap in higher-capacity batteries to extend cleaning time. This interchangeability is one of the major advantages of sticking with a single brand's ecosystem.

Usability and Maintenance

Ease of use is another area where this vacuum shines, albeit with some caveats. The vacuum is easy to maneuver, thanks to its articulated base, which allows for smooth navigation around furniture and corners. However, the placement of the power button is problematic. It’s too close to the handle, leading to accidental shut-offs during use.

The dust canister is easy to empty, though its small capacity means frequent trips to the trash can. The canister's design also necessitates full disassembly to remove hair and other debris that accumulate around the sides, which can be a bit of a hassle. Moreover, the rubber gasket on the canister is not affixed and can easily fall off during emptying, potentially getting lost in the trash.

Noise Level

At 73 dB(A), the noise level is reasonable and doesn’t feel intrusive. It’s quieter than many traditional vacuums, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a less noisy cleaning experience.

Customer Service and Warranty

Ryobi offers a 3-year limited warranty on this vacuum, which should provide some peace of mind. However, my experience with customer service has been less than stellar. Issues like broken wheels and missing parts have been difficult to resolve due to poor customer support and a cumbersome warranty claim process.

Final Thoughts

So, would I recommend the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Stick Vacuum Kit? The answer depends on your specific needs and existing investments in the Ryobi ecosystem. If you already own several Ryobi tools and batteries, this vacuum offers a convenient, cordless solution for quick clean-ups and smaller tasks. Its versatility, ease of maneuverability, and decent suction power (on full mode) make it a valuable addition to your household appliances.

However, if you’re looking for a primary vacuum for deep cleaning or larger spaces, this may not be the best choice. Its top-heavy design, small dust canister, and less-than-stellar customer service are significant drawbacks. Additionally, those without existing Ryobi tools might find better value and performance in other brands.

In summary, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Stick Vacuum Kit is a solid option for Ryobi enthusiasts and those in need of a secondary, cordless vacuum for quick clean-ups. While it has its flaws, its integration into the Ryobi 18V ecosystem and overall convenience make it a worthwhile consideration.