Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP High-Capacity Stick Vacuum

Navigating the world of cordless stick vacuums can often be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available today. Recently, I had the opportunity to test the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP High-Capacity Stick Vacuum (model PBLSV718B), and it left me with a mix of impressions—both positive and areas that could use improvement.

Design and Build Quality

Upon unboxing the Ryobi stick vacuum, the first thing that struck me was its lightweight design. Weighing in at just 3 lbs, it's surprisingly easy to maneuver, making it an ideal candidate for quick daily clean-ups. The build quality, however, is a bit of a mixed bag. While the vacuum feels sturdy for the most part, certain elements like the canister hinges and latches seem somewhat fragile. Extra caution is required when handling these parts to avoid breakage.

Performance and Suction

The vacuum utilizes brushless motor technology, which delivers impressive suction power. I tested it on both hard floors and carpets, and it performed admirably on hard surfaces. Pet hair, crumbs, and other debris were easily sucked up, thanks in part to its pet-rated roller bar that minimizes hair wrap. This roller bar is a game changer, especially if you have pets that shed a lot.

Carpet performance, however, was a different story. While it did an acceptable job on low-pile carpets, it struggled a bit with deeper or more textured rugs. I found myself making multiple passes to achieve a thorough clean, especially for embedded dirt or pet hair.

Battery Life and Versatility

One of the standout features of this vacuum is its compatibility with Ryobi's 18V ONE+ battery system. This is incredibly convenient if you already own other Ryobi tools, as you can swap batteries between them. However, the vacuum’s battery life leaves something to be desired. On high power settings, the vacuum runs for only about 15-20 minutes, which may not be sufficient for more extensive cleaning sessions. Using a higher-capacity battery can extend this run time but also adds significant weight, making the vacuum more cumbersome to use.

Ease of Use and Maneuverability

The Ryobi stick vacuum is relatively easy to assemble and switch between its various modes. It converts effortlessly from a stick vacuum to a handheld unit, which is perfect for cleaning small areas like car interiors or tight spaces. The built-in LED light is a thoughtful addition, illuminating dirt and debris in darker areas, though it's unfortunate that the light only activates when the rotating brush is on.

One aspect that could use improvement is its maneuverability. While it stands upright on its own—a feature that is definitely appreciated—the vacuum can feel top-heavy, especially when equipped with a larger battery. This makes it less ideal for prolonged use or for vacuuming stairs.

Maintenance and Emptying the Canister

Emptying the dust canister is straightforward but not entirely hassle-free. The canister has a 1-liter capacity, which is decent, but emptying it can be a bit of a chore. Debris tends to get stuck around the central column, requiring manual intervention to clear it out completely. This can be particularly annoying if you’re dealing with pet hair or larger debris.

Noise Level

One of the more pleasant surprises was how quiet this vacuum is, even on its highest setting. At around 65 dB(A), it allows you to have a conversation without raising your voice, which is a significant improvement over many other vacuums in this category.

Accessories and Attachments

The vacuum comes with a few standard attachments, but I found them to be somewhat limited. There’s no onboard storage for these attachments, which means they can easily get misplaced. Additionally, the lack of an attachment holder on the vacuum itself is a missed opportunity for greater convenience.

Storage and Durability

Storage is another area where the Ryobi vacuum shines and falters. Its self-standing design is a plus, allowing you to store it upright without needing to lean it against a wall. However, the wall mount provided feels flimsy and doesn't inspire much confidence in its durability.

Warranty and Customer Support

One of the most compelling reasons to consider this vacuum is Ryobi’s robust warranty. The vacuum comes with a 3-year limited warranty, which is notably better than many competitors. This offers some peace of mind, knowing that you have support should anything go wrong.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP High-Capacity Stick Vacuum is a solid option that excels in specific areas but falls short in others. Its lightweight design, powerful suction, and compatibility with the Ryobi ONE+ battery system make it a convenient tool for quick clean-ups and small spaces. However, its limited battery life, cumbersome weight with larger batteries, and the somewhat fragile build quality are notable drawbacks.

If you’re already invested in the Ryobi ecosystem and need a versatile vacuum for light, everyday tasks, this vacuum is a reasonable choice. However, if you require a vacuum for more intensive cleaning or have a lot of carpeting and pet hair to deal with, you might want to explore other options.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Ryobi stick vacuum for its convenience and compatibility with Ryobi's ONE+ system, but with reservations about its overall performance and durability.