Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless String Trimmer/Edger

As an avid gardener and DIY enthusiast, I frequently rely on a variety of tools to maintain my small yard and garden. Recently, I had the opportunity to try out the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless String Trimmer/Edger (model P20102BTLVNM), and I must say, it has left me with mixed feelings. This tool promises a lot with its brushless motor, adjustable cutting width, and versatile functionality, but does it deliver? Here's my comprehensive take on using this string trimmer/edger.

Initial Impressions and Assembly

Right out of the box, the Ryobi string trimmer/edger is lightweight and easy to handle, weighing in at just 5.7 lbs. Assembly is straightforward, mostly involving snapping parts together and securing them with a few screws. The adjustable front handle is a thoughtful feature, allowing for a comfortable grip tailored to your height and preference.

However, I did encounter a minor hiccup during assembly. The grass deflector was somewhat tricky to attach, which made me question the precision of the manufacturing. It took a bit of adjusting to get it to fit properly, but once in place, it stayed secure.

Performance and Usability

The brushless motor is one of the standout features of this tool. It provides ample power for most trimming and edging tasks around a small to medium-sized yard. The variable speed trigger is responsive, offering good control over the cutting power. I found this particularly useful when navigating around flower beds and other delicate areas.

The adjustable cutting width, ranging from 11 to 13 inches, adds to the tool's versatility. For tighter spaces, the narrower setting is ideal, while the wider setting covers more ground quickly. The auto-feed line head is convenient, automatically advancing the line as needed, which saves time and reduces the hassle of manual adjustments.

Real-World Application

In practice, the trimmer cuts through grass and light weeds with ease. The twist-to-edge function is a brilliant addition, allowing for quick transitions between trimming and edging. This is particularly useful for maintaining clean lines along sidewalks and driveways. The tool's lightweight design also makes it easy to maneuver, even for extended periods.

However, the tool does struggle with more demanding tasks. For instance, thicker patches of weeds or overgrown grass can bog down the motor, requiring multiple passes to achieve a clean cut. Additionally, the single-line cutting mechanism is less efficient than dual-line systems, which are more common in higher-end models. This means that for tougher jobs, the tool might take longer to get the desired results.

Durability Concerns

While the Ryobi string trimmer/edger has many positive attributes, durability is a significant concern. The shaft and coupling, which connect the trimmer head to the handle, feel somewhat flimsy. During my use, I was cautious not to put too much stress on this area, but it’s easy to see how it could be a weak point. Given that this is a load-bearing section, it would have been more reassuring if it were made of metal rather than plastic.

Several users have reported issues with the shaft breaking after a few uses, and while I haven’t experienced this myself, it’s something to be aware of. The tool comes with a 3-year limited warranty, which offers some peace of mind, but frequent issues with a critical component are troubling.

Battery Life and Compatibility

One of the strong suits of the Ryobi 18V ONE+ system is its battery compatibility across a wide range of tools. The battery life for this trimmer/edger is impressive, especially with a larger 4Ah battery. I was able to run the tool continuously for about 30-40 minutes, which is sufficient for most small yards.

The convenience of swapping batteries between different Ryobi tools cannot be overstated. It’s a significant advantage if you already own other tools in the ONE+ lineup. However, for larger yards or more intensive tasks, having an extra battery on hand is advisable to avoid interruptions.

Noise and Vibration

In terms of noise, the Ryobi trimmer/edger is quieter than gas-powered models but still produces a noticeable hum, particularly when the auto-feed mechanism kicks in. This feature, while convenient, can be somewhat noisy and startling. It’s worth wearing ear protection if you plan to use the tool for extended periods.

Vibration levels are manageable, thanks to the lightweight design and balanced motor. I didn’t experience significant fatigue or discomfort, even after prolonged use, which is a plus for those with larger areas to maintain.

Storage and Maintenance

Storing the Ryobi trimmer/edger is a breeze due to its compact size and lightweight construction. It easily fits into a corner of the garage or a garden shed. Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving the occasional replacement of the trimmer line and ensuring the battery is charged.

Final Thoughts

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless String Trimmer/Edger is a versatile and user-friendly tool that excels in small to medium-sized yards. Its lightweight design, adjustable cutting width, and battery compatibility make it a convenient choice for routine yard maintenance. However, it falls short in terms of durability and power for more demanding tasks.

If you have a small yard with minimal obstacles and primarily need a tool for light trimming and edging, this Ryobi model is a solid option. Its ease of use and battery compatibility are significant advantages. However, if you require a more robust tool for heavier-duty tasks or have a larger yard, you might want to consider a more powerful and durable option.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless String Trimmer/Edger for homeowners with small, well-maintained yards. It’s a practical and efficient tool for light-duty tasks, but its durability issues and limited power make it less suitable for more intensive use.