Ryobi 18V ONE+ 13" String Trimmer/Edger

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ 13" String Trimmer/Edger offers a compelling blend of features that make it an attractive option for homeowners with medium-sized yards. Having spent adequate time using the tool, I have a well-rounded perspective on its performance and potential drawbacks.

Initial Impressions and Assembly

First off, the assembly was straightforward and took me about 15 minutes. Even those who aren't particularly mechanically inclined should find it relatively easy to put together without needing to consult the manual too extensively. The trimmer is lightweight, weighing in at a mere 6 lbs, which I found made it very easy to handle and maneuver around my yard.

Performance and Versatility

In terms of versatility, the adjustable cut width (ranging from 11 inches to 13 inches) is a practical feature. For tighter spots, the smaller width is useful, while the larger width helps cover more ground quickly. The pivoting head that switches between trimming and edging modes is a fantastic addition. However, I did find the foot mechanism to pivot the head could jam occasionally if it accumulated grass debris, which required some manual intervention to clear.

Battery Life and Power

One of the most critical aspects of any cordless tool is battery life. Armed with an 18V ONE+ 4Ah battery, the trimmer promises up to 72 minutes of runtime. In my experience, it was sturdily able to handle around 40-45 minutes of continuous use, which was sufficient for my 1/8-acre lot. For larger properties, you might want to consider having an extra battery on standby to avoid interruptions. The quick charging feature was handy, and the battery also fits other Ryobi tools, adding to its utility.

Cutting Mechanism and Feed System

The auto-feed head is both a blessing and a curse. It automatically advances the line by 1/2 inch each time the motor stops for two seconds, which saves you from having to manually bump the head. However, this can also lead to rapid line consumption, particularly if you frequently start and stop the trimmer. While this is not a deal-breaker, it does mean you'll need to replace the line more often than you might with a traditional bump-feed system.

Ergonomics and User Comfort

Ergonomically, the trimmer is well-designed. The adjustable secondary handle helped me find a comfortable grip, reducing strain during prolonged use. The lightweight nature of the tool also means that it’s less tiring to use for extended periods. However, the placement of the battery underneath the handle shifts the balance slightly, which might take some getting used to.

Edging Feature

As an edger, the trimmer has its shortcomings. The wheel placement restricts you to edge only from right to left, which means you need to plan your edging path carefully. Moreover, having to hold the unit almost upright to edge comfortably can be tiring if you’re not of a certain height. I found this aspect to be less intuitive compared to dedicated edgers.

Noise and Vibration

The Ryobi 18V trimmer is remarkably quiet compared to gas-powered counterparts. This is a significant plus if you are concerned about noise levels in your neighborhood. The reduced vibration is another advantage, making it easier on the hands and arms, especially during extended use.

Durability and Build Quality

While the tool feels solid and well-constructed, the absence of a brushless motor is a notable downside. Brushless motors generally offer better efficiency and longevity, which this trimmer lacks. Given the price point, I believe it would have been reasonable to expect this feature. Additionally, some of the plastic components, particularly around the auto-feed system, felt less robust than I'd prefer.

Storage and Maintenance

Storing the trimmer is hassle-free. Its compact and lightweight design means it can easily hang on a wall hook. Maintenance is relatively straightforward, though frequent line replacement can become a chore due to the auto-feed system's tendency to consume more line than necessary.

Conclusion and Recommendation

In conclusion, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 13" String Trimmer/Edger is an excellent choice for light to moderate yard work. Its ease of use, lightweight design, and versatility stand out as its key strengths. While it does have some limitations—such as rapid line consumption and a less-than-ideal edging function—these are not deal-breakers for smaller properties.

For those with larger yards or more demanding trimming needs, investing in a more powerful, possibly gas-powered or 40V model might be a wiser choice. However, for small to medium-sized yards, the convenience of a battery-powered tool that integrates with the Ryobi ONE+ system is hard to beat.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely, but with the caveat that it’s most suitable for lighter, less intensive tasks. If you keep your expectations in line with what this trimmer is designed to handle, you’ll likely find it to be a valuable addition to your yard maintenance toolkit.