Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 15" String Trimmer

When you need a versatile, cordless string trimmer that packs a punch, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 15" String Trimmer stands out as a compelling option. I’ve had the opportunity to use this tool extensively, and I’m here to share my experiences with it—both the highs and the lows.

First off, the power and efficiency of this unit are immediately noticeable. The brushless motor delivers impressive performance, allowing it to handle everything from standard yard maintenance to tougher, more demanding tasks. Even in thick, overgrown areas of my yard, the trimmer cut through vegetation with relative ease. The adjustable cutting width, which ranges from 13 to 15 inches, provides flexibility for different types of trimming tasks. I often found myself switching between widths depending on whether I was edging my lawn or clearing a larger area.

One of the standout features is the bump feed head. Reloading the line is typically a dreaded chore, but this trimmer simplifies the process significantly. The bump feed mechanism works smoothly for the most part, though I did experience occasional jams that required manual intervention. Nonetheless, the ease of reloading and the efficiency of the bump feed make it a significant improvement over older models I’ve used.

The variable speed trigger is another feature that enhances user control. Being able to adjust the speed on the fly allowed me to conserve battery life when tackling lighter tasks and ramp up the power when cutting through denser growth. Speaking of battery life, the 18V 6Ah battery included with the trimmer provided a decent amount of uptime. However, more demanding tasks drained the battery faster than I would have liked. For larger yards, I found it essential to have multiple batteries on hand to avoid interruptions.

While the trimmer excels in many areas, it’s not without its drawbacks. The first issue I noticed was the weight. Weighing in at 10.3 pounds, it’s heavier than some other models I’ve used, especially when fitted with the larger 6Ah battery. After extended periods of use, my arms grew noticeably fatigued. A shoulder strap could have mitigated this issue, but unfortunately, the design doesn’t support one easily.

Another point of contention is the trimmer’s balance. The motor is located in the head, making the tool somewhat front-heavy. This design choice made it more cumbersome to maneuver, particularly when I had to angle it for edging tasks. The front-heavy nature of the trimmer also meant that I had to frequently adjust my grip to maintain control, which added to the overall fatigue.

Durability is another mixed bag. On the one hand, the brushless motor and overall build quality feel robust and capable of handling tough jobs. On the other hand, the guard proved to be a weak point. It broke off after a few uses, and while it didn’t impact the trimmer’s performance, it was disappointing given the tool’s otherwise solid construction.

The noise level is another area where this trimmer shines. Despite its power, it operates surprisingly quietly. This is a significant advantage, especially if you’re like me and have neighbors in close proximity. The low noise level also makes it easier to hold a conversation while using the tool, which is a small but appreciated convenience.

One of the most significant selling points for me is the attachment capability. This trimmer is compatible with a variety of attachments, including an edger, blower, and pole saw. This versatility adds tremendous value, allowing you to tackle multiple yard tasks with a single power unit. The attachments are easy to swap out and click securely into place, making transitions between tasks seamless.

Despite its strengths, the trimmer does have some areas that could use improvement. The bump feed mechanism, while generally effective, occasionally failed to advance the line, requiring manual adjustment. This was particularly frustrating during longer trimming sessions. Additionally, the trimmer’s counterclockwise head rotation took some getting used to. It was different from other trimmers I’ve owned and initially led to some uneven cuts and debris being thrown in unexpected directions.

The battery ecosystem is another strong point in favor of this trimmer. Being part of the Ryobi ONE+ system means that the batteries are interchangeable with other Ryobi tools. This compatibility is a significant advantage if you already own other Ryobi products, as it allows you to maximize the utility of your battery investment.

In conclusion, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 15" String Trimmer is a powerful and versatile tool that excels in many aspects but is not without its flaws. Its power, ease of use, and attachment capability make it a strong contender for anyone looking to maintain their yard with a cordless option. However, its weight, balance issues, and occasional line feed problems are factors that potential buyers should consider.

Would I recommend this trimmer? Yes, but with reservations. If you have a smaller yard or don’t mind managing a few quirks, this trimmer offers excellent performance and versatility. However, for those with larger properties or who require a more balanced and lightweight tool, you might want to explore other options. Overall, it’s a solid addition to the Ryobi ONE+ lineup and a valuable tool for the right user.