Ryobi String Trimmer/Edger & Sweeper

As a frequent user of various garden tools, I recently had the opportunity to try out the Ryobi String Trimmer/Edger & Sweeper, model P2034. This 18-Volt Combo Kit promises versatility and ease of use, and I was eager to see how it would perform in my modestly sized yard. With a combination of features like the ability to convert from trimmer to edger and a lightweight design, it seemed like the perfect tool for small to medium-sized lawns.

First impressions matter, and the Ryobi String Trimmer/Edger & Sweeper made a good one with its lightweight construction. The trimmer weighs only 3 pounds, and the blower is slightly heavier at 3.8 pounds. This makes the tool incredibly easy to handle, even for extended periods. The lightweight nature is particularly beneficial for those who might not have the strength to wield heavier equipment for long durations.

One of the standout features of this tool is its compatibility with all Ryobi ONE+ tools and batteries. This is a significant advantage for anyone who already owns other tools from the Ryobi ONE+ lineup. Swapping batteries between devices is convenient and ensures that you’re never left without power in the middle of a job. The trimmer itself offers a cutting width of 8 to 10 inches, which is adjustable depending on your needs. This flexibility is great for different types of trimming tasks, from broad lawn areas to more delicate edging around flower beds.

The ease of converting the trimmer to an edger is another strong point. With just a simple adjustment, the tool transforms from a trimmer to an edger, making it a versatile addition to your gardening arsenal. The edger function works well for creating clean lines along sidewalks and driveways, adding a professional touch to your lawn care routine.

Performance-wise, the trimmer does a commendable job. It cuts through grass and light weeds efficiently, although it’s worth noting that it has a single-string design. This can be a bit limiting in terms of power, especially if you’re dealing with thicker vegetation. The string itself is also on the lighter side, which means it might not last as long as heavier-duty strings found on more robust trimmers. However, for regular lawn maintenance, it performs adequately.

One aspect that I found particularly useful is the blower, which has a maximum speed of 120 MPH. This is sufficient for clearing hard surfaces like driveways and patios of leaves and debris. The blower is designed for one-handed operation, making it easy to use without straining your wrist. It’s not the most powerful blower on the market, but for light to medium tasks, it gets the job done.

Despite its many positives, the Ryobi String Trimmer/Edger & Sweeper does have some drawbacks. Durability is a concern, especially with the trimmer head. The plastic coupling at the shaft is a weak point and can break under stress. This is particularly problematic if you’re using the tool on uneven terrain or if you’re not careful with how you handle it. The tool’s overall build quality feels somewhat flimsy, which is disappointing given its otherwise thoughtful design.

Another issue I encountered is with the auto-feed feature of the trimmer. While it’s designed to extend the cutting line automatically, it can be quite finicky. The line tends to tangle beneath the spool, requiring frequent stops to fix the issue. This can be frustrating and significantly slows down your progress. It’s a design flaw that I hope Ryobi addresses in future models.

The blower, while effective for light tasks, also has its limitations. It struggles with heavier debris and isn’t suitable for larger yards or more demanding clean-up jobs. If you’re looking for a blower that can handle a wide range of tasks, you might need to consider a more powerful, standalone model.

In terms of battery life, the tool performs reasonably well. A fully charged 3Ah battery provides a decent run time, enough to complete most small to medium-sized jobs. However, for larger areas, you might need to have a spare battery on hand to avoid interruptions.

Assembly and storage of the tool are straightforward. The components fit together easily, and the tool doesn’t take up much space in the garage or shed. The trimmer and blower are both easy to clean, which is a plus for maintaining the tool’s longevity.

So, would I recommend the Ryobi String Trimmer/Edger & Sweeper? It depends on your specific needs. For small to medium-sized lawns, this tool is a versatile and convenient option. Its lightweight design and battery compatibility with other Ryobi ONE+ tools make it a practical choice for regular lawn maintenance. However, if you have a larger yard or need a tool that can handle more demanding tasks, you might find its limitations frustrating.

In summary, the Ryobi String Trimmer/Edger & Sweeper is a good fit for those with modest lawn care needs. It offers flexibility, ease of use, and the convenience of cordless operation. Just be mindful of its durability issues and the finicky auto-feed feature. If you can work around these drawbacks, it’s a tool that can make your lawn care routine more efficient and enjoyable.