Ryobi 18V ONE+ 1800-WATT POWER STATION

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ 1800-Watt Power Station, or simply the Ryobi Power Station, is a versatile and innovative addition to the portable power market. As someone who frequently works on job sites and enjoys outdoor activities, I found this tool to be both a practical and efficient solution for powering various devices and appliances. It's designed to cater to a diverse range of needs, from emergency backup power to remote job site operations and recreational uses.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about the Ryobi Power Station is its robust and compact design. Weighing in at 24 pounds, it strikes a balance between portability and durability. The unit feels solid, and the build quality is what one would expect from a brand like Ryobi. The LCD screen is clear and informative, displaying battery and load levels, which is incredibly useful for monitoring power usage in real-time.

Power and Performance

In terms of performance, the Ryobi Power Station delivers a maximum running power of 1800 watts and a starting power of 3000 watts. This is more than sufficient for a wide range of applications, from powering a refrigerator during a blackout to running power tools on a job site. The pure sine wave technology ensures that sensitive electronics, such as laptops and televisions, are safe from power fluctuations.

One of the standout features is its ability to utilize Ryobi's 18V batteries. This is a game-changer for those already invested in the Ryobi ecosystem, as it allows for seamless integration with existing tools and batteries. The unit can charge up to 8 batteries sequentially via USB-C, which is a thoughtful addition for those who need extended runtime.

Charging Capabilities

The Power Station supports multiple charging options, including solar charging, which adds to its versatility. However, I did find that the solar charging can be somewhat finicky. When using a 60-watt solar panel, the unit occasionally goes into a "sleep" mode, reducing the charging rate to a mere 2 watts. This issue doesn't occur when using the 65-watt wall charger, so it’s something to keep in mind if you plan to rely heavily on solar power.

The charging input is rated at 60 watts, which is somewhat slow, especially when you have multiple batteries to charge. It takes an entire day to fully recharge the unit, which can be a drawback if you need quick turnaround times.

Usability and Features

The Ryobi Power Station is user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a straightforward interface. The Bluetooth capability allows for remote monitoring via the GENCONTROL app, which is a neat feature for those who like to keep an eye on their power usage from a distance. However, the Bluetooth range is limited to about 30 feet, which might be restrictive in some scenarios.

One of the most appealing aspects is the zero emissions and quiet operation. Unlike traditional gas or propane generators, the Ryobi Power Station can be used indoors without any concerns about fumes or noise. This makes it ideal for indoor events or emergencies where ventilation might be an issue.

Limitations

Despite its many strengths, the Ryobi Power Station does have a few limitations. For one, it does not support pass-through charging, meaning you can't charge the batteries and use the inverter simultaneously. This can be inconvenient if you need continuous power while recharging the unit.

Another point of contention is its performance with high-demand appliances. While it handles most household electronics and small appliances well, it struggles with more power-intensive tools like a 10-inch miter saw or a small skill saw. These limitations make it less suitable for heavy-duty job site use.

Battery Life and Management

Battery management is another area where the Ryobi Power Station shows room for improvement. The unit does not come with batteries, and to run it at full capacity, you need eight batteries, which can be a significant additional cost. Moreover, the unit seems to drain batteries faster than expected, especially when used with high-power devices. I found that running a refrigerator, which was advertised to last for 12 hours, only lasted around 6 hours with fully charged batteries.

Practical Applications

Despite some of its shortcomings, the Ryobi Power Station excels in several practical applications. It’s perfect for tailgating, camping, and other outdoor activities where traditional power sources are unavailable. The multiple battery slots and the ability to swap out batteries on the go provide extended runtime, making it a reliable companion for extended outdoor adventures.

In emergency situations, the Power Station proves invaluable. I tested it during a power outage and it kept my refrigerator and freezer running, ensuring that my food stayed fresh. It also powered essential devices like phones and laptops, providing much-needed connectivity during the blackout.

Conclusion

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ 1800-Watt Power Station is a versatile and innovative tool that offers a lot of value, especially for those already invested in the Ryobi ecosystem. Its portability, zero emissions, and quiet operation make it a standout option for indoor use and outdoor activities alike. However, its limitations in pass-through charging, high-power tool compatibility, and battery management may be a deal-breaker for some.

Would I recommend the Ryobi Power Station? Yes, but with reservations. If you need a reliable source of portable power for light to medium-duty applications and already own Ryobi 18V batteries, this tool is a fantastic addition to your arsenal. However, if you require a power station for heavy-duty job site use or need continuous power while charging, you might want to explore other options.