Ryobi 18V ONE+ Lithium Starter Kit with Free 4-1/2" Angle Grinder

As an avid DIY enthusiast and a long-time user of Ryobi tools, I was eager to try out the 18V ONE+ Lithium Starter Kit with Free 4-1/2" Angle Grinder. This kit includes two lithium batteries (4Ah and 2Ah), a charger, and a cordless angle grinder, making it an attractive package for anyone looking to expand their tool collection. Here’s my detailed take on this kit based on my hands-on experience.

First off, the inclusion of two batteries is a significant plus. The 4Ah battery provides extended runtime, which is particularly useful for more demanding tasks, while the 2Ah battery is lightweight and great for quick jobs. Both batteries come equipped with a high visibility LED fuel gauge, allowing you to monitor the charge levels easily. This feature is particularly handy when you’re in the middle of a project and need to know how much juice you have left.

The charger included in the kit is straightforward to use and does the job efficiently. It’s compatible with any tool in the 18V ONE+ system, which is a huge benefit if you already own other Ryobi tools. The charging progress indicators are a nice touch, giving you a clear visual on how much longer you need to wait before getting back to work.

Now, let’s talk about the main attraction: the 4-1/2" angle grinder. This cordless grinder boasts a robust 9,000 RPM, making it a powerful tool for a variety of cutting and grinding tasks. I found it particularly effective for cutting through metal and shaping porcelain tiles. The grinder’s performance was impressive, especially considering its cordless nature. The freedom from cords allowed me to move around freely and tackle tasks in tight spaces without worrying about finding a power outlet.

One feature that stood out to me was the on-board wrench storage for hassle-free accessory changes. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference in terms of convenience. The handle on the side of the unit can be moved to the back or opposite side, providing flexibility depending on the task at hand. This ergonomic design makes the grinder comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver, even during extended use.

However, it’s worth noting that the grinder does consume a lot of power, which is typical for such tools. During my testing, the 4Ah battery lasted about 15 minutes of continuous use in below-freezing temperatures. While this might seem short, it’s important to remember that grinders are power-hungry tools, and battery life can vary based on the intensity of the tasks and environmental conditions. For more demanding jobs, having spare batteries on hand or opting for a larger capacity battery could be beneficial.

One area where the grinder could improve is its durability. In my experience, the tool performed flawlessly, but I’ve heard from others that they encountered issues with the trigger sticking and the tool shutting off unexpectedly. These issues seem to be isolated, but they’re worth mentioning as potential concerns. If you encounter such problems, Ryobi’s 3-year limited warranty should provide some peace of mind.

In terms of power and performance, the grinder did not disappoint. It handled cutting and grinding tasks with ease, demonstrating a level of power that rivaled some of the corded grinders I’ve used in the past. The noise level was also relatively low, which was a pleasant surprise. This makes it a good option for those who are sensitive to loud tools or need to work in noise-restricted environments.

The craftsmanship of the tool is noteworthy. The grinder feels sturdy and well-built, which is consistent with the quality I’ve come to expect from Ryobi. The balance of the tool is excellent, making it comfortable to use for extended periods without causing fatigue.

One minor drawback I encountered was with the batteries. While they charge efficiently and provide decent runtime, one of the batteries in my kit did not charge beyond half-charge. This was a bit disappointing, but it didn’t significantly impact my overall experience with the tool. It’s something to keep an eye on, especially if you rely heavily on your tools for professional use.

Overall, the 18V ONE+ Lithium Starter Kit with Free 4-1/2" Angle Grinder is a solid addition to any DIYer’s toolkit. The combination of two versatile batteries, a reliable charger, and a powerful grinder makes it a great value package. The cordless design offers convenience and flexibility, while the grinder’s performance and ergonomic features make it a pleasure to use.

I would recommend this tool for DIY enthusiasts and occasional users who need a reliable and versatile grinder for a variety of tasks. The issues with battery life and potential durability concerns are relatively minor compared to the overall benefits and value this kit provides. If you’re looking for a cordless grinder that offers power, convenience, and compatibility with a wide range of tools, this Ryobi kit is definitely worth considering.