Ryobi 18V ONE+ 4.75 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum

Navigating the world of shop vacuums can be quite the journey, especially when you're on the lookout for a cordless option that balances portability and performance. Enter the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 4.75 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum, a tool that promises convenience with its cordless operation and a stainless-steel tub for durability. As a loyal user of various Ryobi products, I was eager to put this vacuum to the test and see how it stacks up against my expectations.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the Ryobi vacuum impresses with its compact and robust design. The stainless-steel tub not only looks sleek but also promises longevity. Weighing in at just under 22 pounds, it strikes a balance between being lightweight enough for portability and heavy enough to feel sturdy and reliable. The collapsible handle is a thoughtful touch, making it easy to transport and store when not in use.

Setup and Usability

Assembly is straightforward, requiring minimal effort. The wheels, however, did present a bit of a challenge. I had to use a rubber mallet to get them into place, which might be a minor inconvenience for some. Once assembled, the vacuum is ready to go, provided you have a charged 18V ONE+ battery.

Using the vacuum is a breeze, thanks to its cordless nature. The 360° rotating caster wheels add to its maneuverability, allowing me to navigate tight spaces with ease. The built-in storage for accessories, including the extension wand and various tools, is a nice feature, although I found the layout could be more intuitive.

Performance

When it comes to suction power, the Ryobi vacuum presents a mixed bag. For light to medium-duty tasks, such as cleaning up sawdust, pet hair, or small debris, it performs admirably. The extendable wand is particularly useful for reaching high or awkward spots, and the various attachments come in handy for different cleaning scenarios.

However, the vacuum struggles with heavier debris. When I tried to clean up after a tile floor demo, it had difficulty picking up fine dust and small pieces of debris. The suction power drops noticeably when using the metal extension and larger attachments. This limitation makes it less suitable for more demanding tasks or heavy-duty use.

Wet and Dry Capabilities

One of the standout features of this vacuum is its ability to handle both wet and dry messes. The foam filter for wet applications and the cartridge filter for dry ones are easy to switch out, adding to the vacuum's versatility. During my tests, it managed wet spills reasonably well, though I would caution against expecting it to handle large volumes of liquid efficiently.

Battery Life

Battery performance is a crucial factor for any cordless tool, and this vacuum is no exception. Using a 4.0Ah battery, I found that it lasted around 20 minutes on a full charge, which is enough for most small to medium-sized cleaning jobs. For larger tasks, having a spare battery or two on hand is advisable. The vacuum does consume battery life fairly quickly, so frequent battery swaps might be necessary for extended use.

Noise Level

Another pleasant surprise is the vacuum's noise level. It's relatively quiet compared to other shop vacs I've used, making it more comfortable to operate for extended periods. This is a significant advantage if you're working in a home environment where noise can be a concern.

Maintenance and Durability

Maintenance is where the Ryobi vacuum shows some room for improvement. Finding replacement filters can be a hassle, as they are not readily available in stores and often need to be ordered online. Additionally, some of the plastic parts feel a bit flimsy and might not withstand heavy use over time. On the flip side, the stainless-steel tub is easy to clean and should hold up well against wear and tear.

Portability

The portability of this vacuum is one of its strongest points. Without the need for a power cord, I could easily move it around my workspace and even take it outside to clean my car. The compact size also means it doesn't take up much storage space, which is a bonus for those with limited room.

Compatibility Issues

One recurring issue is the compatibility of the hose and attachments. The hose is relatively short and stiff, which can make it challenging to use in certain situations. Moreover, it doesn't fit well with many standard attachments available on the market, limiting its versatility. This is something to consider if you plan on using it with other tools or accessories.

Final Thoughts

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ 4.75 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum is a tool that excels in certain areas while falling short in others. Its cordless design, lightweight build, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for light to medium-duty tasks. The ability to handle both wet and dry messes adds to its versatility, and the relatively quiet operation is a significant plus.

However, its limited suction power and compatibility issues with attachments make it less suitable for heavy-duty use. The need for frequent battery swaps and the difficulty in finding replacement filters are additional drawbacks.

Would I recommend this vacuum? It depends on your needs. If you're looking for a portable, easy-to-use vacuum for light cleaning tasks and already have other Ryobi tools and batteries, this could be a valuable addition to your toolkit. However, if you require a vacuum for more demanding tasks or heavy-duty use, you might want to consider other options with more robust performance and better attachment compatibility.