Ryobi 18V ONE+ 10" String Trimmer/Edger Kit

As someone who enjoys maintaining a tidy yard, I was excited to try out Ryobi's 18V ONE+ 10" String Trimmer/Edger Kit. This lightweight, battery-operated tool promises to be a versatile addition to my gardening arsenal, combining the functions of a trimmer and an edger in one compact package. Here’s a detailed account of my experience using the trimmer.

First impressions were quite positive. The trimmer is incredibly lightweight, coming in at just over 4 lbs. This makes it easy to handle and maneuver, even for extended periods. The assembly was straightforward, and I was able to get it up and running in just a few minutes. The tool comes with a 2Ah battery and a charger, which is a nice touch, especially for those who may not already own Ryobi's 18V ONE+ batteries.

The trimmer’s design is user-friendly, with an overmold handle that provides a comfortable grip. One of the standout features is the adjustable cut swath, which can be set between 8" and 10". This allows for some customization based on the specific needs of your yard. I found the 10" setting to be perfect for most of my trimming tasks, providing a good balance between coverage and precision.

When it comes to performance, the trimmer does an admirable job for light-duty tasks. The auto-feed head is designed to advance the line with each trigger pull, eliminating the need for the traditional bump feed mechanism. This feature worked well for me, and I didn’t experience any significant issues with line advancement. However, it's worth noting that the trimmer uses a .065" line, which is on the thinner side and may not be suitable for tougher, thicker vegetation.

One of the most convenient features is the twist shaft, which allows the tool to convert from a trimmer to an edger. This functionality is incredibly useful for maintaining clean edges along sidewalks and flower beds. The conversion process is quick and easy, and the edger performs well, providing a neat, angled cut.

Battery life is always a concern with cordless tools, but the 18V ONE+ 2Ah battery provided a respectable runtime. I was able to get about 35 minutes of continuous use, which was sufficient for my small yard. However, if you have a larger area to cover, you may need to invest in additional batteries to avoid interruptions. The charging process, unfortunately, is quite slow, taking up to 8 hours for a full charge. This can be a significant drawback if you rely on quick turnaround times for your yard work.

One area where the trimmer falls short is in its durability. While the lightweight plastic construction makes it easy to handle, it also raises concerns about the tool’s long-term durability. During my use, I didn’t encounter any immediate issues, but I can see how the plastic components might wear down or break over time, particularly with frequent use.

The noise level of the trimmer is relatively low, especially compared to gas-powered models. This makes for a more pleasant experience, both for the user and for any nearby neighbors. The tool also features an integrated LED fuel gauge, which provides a clear indication of the battery’s remaining charge. This is a handy feature that helps prevent unexpected shutdowns.

Storage is another area where the trimmer excels. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to hang on a wall or store in a garden shed without taking up too much space. The handle includes a keyhole hanger slot, which simplifies the storage process even further.

Overall, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 10" String Trimmer/Edger Kit is a solid choice for homeowners with small to medium-sized yards. Its lightweight design, ease of use, and dual functionality make it a versatile tool for basic yard maintenance. However, it may not be the best option for those with larger properties or more demanding trimming needs due to its limited battery life and lightweight construction.

If you’re looking for a convenient, easy-to-use trimmer and edger for light-duty tasks, I would recommend giving this tool a try. Its affordability, combined with the flexibility of the 18V ONE+ battery system, makes it a worthwhile investment for maintaining a tidy yard. Just keep in mind the limitations regarding battery life and durability, and you’ll likely find it to be a valuable addition to your gardening toolkit.