Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 5" Random Orbit Sander Kit

Sanding has always been a crucial part of my woodworking projects, and having the right tool can make a world of difference. Recently, I had the opportunity to test out the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 5" Random Orbit Sander, and I was keen to see how it stacks up against the competition.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this Ryobi sander was its compact and lightweight design. It's got a low profile, which makes it easier to control, especially when working on intricate details or tight corners. The build quality feels robust and durable, something I've come to expect from Ryobi tools. The inclusion of HP Technology indicates that this sander is designed to deliver improved power, runtime, and durability.

The sander has a comfortable grip that feels secure in hand, reducing the chance of slippage during use. This is particularly important for extended sanding sessions where fatigue can be a significant issue. The design also includes an integrated LED light, a feature that I found surprisingly useful for illuminating the work area, ensuring better precision.

Performance and Features

One of the standout features of this sander is its variable speed control, ranging from 7,000 to 11,000 orbits per minute (OPM). This allows for a more customized sanding experience, which can be crucial for different materials and finishes. I appreciated this feature, as it enabled me to start slow on delicate areas and ramp up the speed for more aggressive material removal when needed.

The brushless motor is another highlight, ensuring efficient performance and longer tool life. I found the sander to be powerful enough for most of my tasks, from smoothing rough surfaces to preparing a surface for finishing. The 3/32" orbit diameter ensures efficient material removal without leaving swirl marks if used correctly.

Dust Collection

Dust management is always a concern with sanders, and Ryobi has done a commendable job here. The tool comes with a dust bag, and it’s also compatible with 1-1/4" and 1-7/8" vacuum hoses. However, I did encounter some issues with the dust bag staying securely attached. It tended to fall off during use, which was frustrating and led to more clean-up. While the option to connect a vacuum hose is excellent, the attachment mechanism could use some improvement.

Vibration and Comfort

Sanding can be a physically demanding task, and vibration control is essential for comfort. Ryobi claims a 30% reduction in vibration with this model, and I did notice that it was less jarring on my hands compared to other sanders I've used. This reduction in vibration helps reduce fatigue, allowing for longer work sessions without discomfort.

Battery Life

The sander runs on an 18V battery, and the kit I used came with a 2Ah battery. Battery life was decent, offering about an hour of continuous use on a full charge. For larger projects, having spare batteries on hand would be beneficial. The charger included is identical to those used with other Ryobi tools, which is convenient for those already invested in the Ryobi ONE+ system.

Ease of Use

The hook and loop system for changing sandpaper is straightforward and holds the paper securely in place. I found it easy to swap out different grits as needed for various stages of sanding. The on/off switch is conveniently placed, though it did feel a bit stiff at times.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- HP Technology: Provides improved power and runtime.
- Variable Speed Control: Allows for customized sanding.
- Integrated LED Light: Enhances visibility.
- Low Profile Design: Offers better control.
- Reduced Vibration: Improves comfort during extended use.
- Dust Collection Compatibility: Can be connected to a vacuum for better dust management.

Cons:
- Dust Bag Attachment: Tends to fall off during use.
- Battery Life: Could be improved for more extended projects.

Conclusion

In my experience, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 5" Random Orbit Sander offers a lot of value for its price. It performs well, is easy to use, and has several features that enhance its functionality and user comfort. However, the dust bag attachment issue is a significant drawback that Ryobi needs to address.

Despite this flaw, I would still recommend this sander, particularly for those already invested in the Ryobi ONE+ system. Its power, ease of use, and reduced vibration make it a strong contender in the cordless sander market. If you're looking for a versatile, reliable sander and can work around the dust collection issue, this Ryobi model is well worth considering.