Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless String Trimmer/Edger Kit

It's always exciting to add a new tool to your arsenal, and the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless String Trimmer/Edger Kit certainly piqued my interest. This tool, designed to handle trimming and edging tasks around residential yards, offers a host of features that promise efficiency and ease of use. But does it live up to the hype? Let's dig into my hands-on experience.

Design and Build Quality

Straight out of the box, the trimmer feels robust yet surprisingly lightweight. Weighing in at just 5.7 lbs, it's easy to maneuver, which is a significant plus for extended use. The adjustable cutting width, ranging from 11 to 13 inches, offers a nice level of versatility, allowing for quick adjustments based on the task at hand. The conversion to an edger is as simple as a twist, making it convenient for dual functionality.

However, the overall build quality does have a few quirks. The handle and trigger, while functional, have a somewhat flimsy feel. This isn't a deal-breaker, but it's worth noting if you're accustomed to more rugged, heavy-duty tools.

Performance and Power

The brushless motor is where this trimmer shines. It delivers impressive power for an 18V tool, making quick work of grass and even some denser overgrowth. The variable speed trigger is a fantastic addition, giving you better control over the power output, which is particularly useful for delicate trimming around flower beds or more aggressive cutting along fence lines.

The auto-feed head, designed for easy string reloading, performs adequately. It releases a bit of line every time you let go of the trigger, which can be both a blessing and a curse. On the plus side, you don't have to worry about bumping the head to feed more line. On the downside, it does tend to burn through the string more quickly than I'd like, especially if you're frequently stopping and starting.

Battery Life and Compatibility

The 18V ONE+ battery system is a major selling point for this trimmer, especially if you're already invested in Ryobi's ecosystem. The included 4Ah battery offers a decent run time, though it varies depending on the intensity of your tasks. For light trimming, you can expect around 30-45 minutes of continuous use, which is generally sufficient for small to mid-sized yards. However, for larger properties or more intensive tasks, you might find yourself needing a second battery.

One minor gripe is the charging speed. The included charger works fine, but it's not the fastest. It typically takes a couple of hours to fully recharge the battery, so having a backup battery can help minimize downtime.

Ease of Use

The Ryobi trimmer is user-friendly, even for those who might not be seasoned DIYers. Assembly is straightforward, and the tool is intuitive to operate. The lightweight design and balanced feel make it comfortable to use, even for extended periods. However, the noise level is a bit higher than expected, so ear protection is a good idea.

Durability

Durability is where the trimmer shows some room for improvement. While the tool itself seems sturdy, there are occasional issues with the auto-feed mechanism and the line getting tangled or wrapped around the shaft. These aren't deal-breakers but can be frustrating during extended use. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the battery life diminishing over time, which is something to keep in mind if you plan on using this tool frequently.

Additional Features

The trimmer's ability to convert to an edger with a simple twist is a fantastic feature, adding to its versatility. The edger works well for maintaining clean lines along sidewalks and driveways, though it may not be as effective for more challenging edging tasks.

Warranty and Support

Ryobi offers a 3-year limited warranty on this trimmer, which provides some peace of mind. However, the customer service experience can be hit or miss. It's worth noting that some users have had difficulty getting support through Home Depot, so you might need to be persistent if you encounter any issues.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

Overall, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless String Trimmer/Edger Kit is a solid choice for homeowners with small to mid-sized yards. Its lightweight design, powerful brushless motor, and battery compatibility make it a versatile and convenient tool for routine yard maintenance. However, it's not without its flaws. The auto-feed mechanism can be finicky, and the durability of some components leaves room for improvement.

If you're already invested in Ryobi's ONE+ battery system, this trimmer is a no-brainer. It offers good performance, ease of use, and the convenience of battery compatibility. For those new to Ryobi, it's still a worthwhile consideration, especially if you're looking for a lightweight, versatile tool for your yard.

However, if you require a more heavy-duty solution or have a larger property, you might want to explore other options with more robust build quality and longer battery life. In summary, I'd recommend the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless String Trimmer/Edger Kit for its convenience, performance, and value, but be aware of its limitations.