Ryobi 18V ONE+ String Trimmer/Edger Kit

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ String Trimmer/Edger Kit is an intriguing blend of versatility and convenience for anyone with a smaller yard or garden. I've spent a considerable amount of time with this tool, and it has certainly left me with mixed feelings. On one hand, its lightweight design and battery-powered simplicity make it an attractive option for quick, hassle-free trimming and edging. On the other hand, there are some durability concerns that might give potential buyers pause.

First things first, the portability of this trimmer is a game-changer. Weighing only 7.2 lbs, it's incredibly easy to maneuver, making it perfect for those who might struggle with heavier, gas-powered models. The pivoting head is particularly useful, allowing for seamless transitions between trimming and edging with just a press of a button. This feature alone can save you a lot of time and effort, especially if you have a lot of borders and edges to maintain.

The adjustable cutting width, ranging from 11 to 13 inches, is another feature that adds to its versatility. This allows you to optimize for either a longer runtime or a wider cut, depending on your immediate needs. The variable speed trigger also provides better control around delicate areas, such as flower beds or young trees.

However, while the design is user-friendly, the trimmer does have its drawbacks. One of my primary concerns is the durability of the tool. The shaft and pivot head, made from plastic, have shown signs of wear and tear much sooner than I expected. In fact, the tool snapped at the pivot head after only a few uses, which was disappointing. This seems to be a design flaw, as the plastic coupling in a load-bearing area should ideally be made of metal to withstand more stress.

Battery life is another aspect worth discussing. The 18V battery provides a decent runtime, but it's not exceptional. For small yards, you might find it sufficient, but if you have a larger area to cover, you might need to recharge or swap batteries mid-task. The 4Ah battery included in the kit does offer a good balance between weight and power, but an upgrade to a higher capacity battery might be necessary for more extensive jobs.

The trimmer's automatic line advancement system is a double-edged sword. While it's designed to make the tool more convenient by feeding the line as needed, it often overfeeds, leading to wasted line and frequent stops to untangle it. This can be quite frustrating, especially if you're trying to get through your yard work quickly. The line size itself, at 0.080 inches, is adequate for grass and light weeds but struggles with thicker, more stubborn growth.

One of the standout features is the ability to convert the trimmer into a mini-mower with the included wheeled base. This is particularly useful for very small lawns or tight spaces where a full-sized mower might be overkill. However, the mower functionality is limited. The cutting deck often requires multiple passes to achieve an even cut, and the deck's plastic construction feels flimsy. It flexes too much under pressure, making it less effective on uneven terrain.

Storage and maintenance are straightforward. The trimmer's compact size means it doesn't take up much space in your shed or garage, and the battery and charger are easy to manage. Cleaning the tool is also simple, as most of the debris can be wiped off with a cloth. However, the plastic parts do feel like they could break if not handled with care.

In terms of noise, the trimmer is relatively quiet compared to gas-powered models, which is a plus if you live in a neighborhood where noise might be an issue. The low noise level makes it more comfortable to use for extended periods, and you’re less likely to disturb your neighbors.

So, would I recommend the Ryobi 18V ONE+ String Trimmer/Edger Kit? The answer is nuanced. If you have a small yard with minimal obstacles and you prioritize ease of use and portability, this trimmer could be a good fit. Its lightweight design, pivoting head, and adjustable cutting width offer a lot of conveniences. However, if durability and power are your primary concerns, you might want to look at more robust options. The plastic construction and issues with the automatic line advancement system are significant drawbacks that can't be ignored.

In summary, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ String Trimmer/Edger Kit is a versatile tool that excels in ease of use and portability but falls short in durability and power. It's a good fit for small yards and light-duty tasks but might not hold up under more demanding conditions. If you decide to go with this model, be prepared for some potential frustrations and consider it more of a supplementary tool rather than a primary one for heavy-duty yard work.