Ryobi 18V ONE+ 2-Tool Combo Kit

Having spent some time with the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 2-Tool Combo Kit, I’ve gathered a fair share of insights into its practical applications around the home and yard. This kit includes a 10” string trimmer/edger and a 250 CFM blower, supported by an 18V 2Ah lithium battery and charger. As someone who appreciates well-rounded tools for DIY tasks, I found this combo kit to offer a versatile solution for maintaining a small to medium-sized yard.

The string trimmer/edger stands out for its lightweight design, making it easy to maneuver around the yard without causing fatigue. Weighing just 4.28 lbs., it’s a breeze to handle, especially for prolonged periods. The adjustable cutting width, ranging from 8” to 10”, allows for customized trimming. Whether you’re tidying up your lawn edges or tackling more extensive trimming tasks, this feature is quite handy. I particularly appreciated the auto-feed head, which advances the line automatically, saving me the hassle of manual adjustments and interruptions during use.

Switching from trimming to edging is seamless, thanks to the twisting shaft. This feature transforms the tool into an edger with a simple twist, making it a two-in-one solution. The .065” line size is adequate for most residential tasks, though it might struggle with thicker, denser vegetation. For small to medium-sized yards, however, it performs admirably.

On the other hand, the blower in this kit is designed to clear hard surfaces with ease. It delivers a maximum air volume of 250 CFM and an airspeed of 90 MPH. While these specifications are ideal for tasks such as clearing driveways, sidewalks, and patios, they may not be powerful enough for heavy-duty leaf collection in larger yards. Nonetheless, for everyday use, it’s effective and gets the job done efficiently.

The blower’s weight of 5.56 lbs. is manageable, and its ergonomic design ensures comfort during use. The performance is consistent, and I found it particularly useful for quick cleanups after mowing the lawn or trimming hedges.

One of the major advantages of the Ryobi 18V ONE+ system is the compatibility across a wide range of tools. The 2Ah battery included in this kit is interchangeable with other tools in the Ryobi ONE+ lineup, which is a significant convenience if you already own or plan to expand your collection of Ryobi tools. The battery life is sufficient for most tasks, offering over 35 minutes of runtime with the string trimmer. Charging is relatively quick, although investing in an additional battery might be wise for uninterrupted work sessions.

Build quality is another notable aspect of this combo kit. Both the string trimmer and blower feel robust and well-constructed. Despite their lightweight nature, they don’t compromise on durability. This makes them suitable for regular use without significant wear and tear.

However, there are a few areas where the combo kit could see improvement. The blower, while efficient for light tasks, could benefit from increased power for more demanding yard work. Similarly, the string trimmer’s line size might not suffice for tougher, thicker vegetation. These limitations are worth considering based on your specific needs.

Customer service is an important factor, and Ryobi’s support is commendable. Their three-year limited warranty offers peace of mind, ensuring that any issues are addressed promptly and satisfactorily. Knowing that the company stands behind its products adds a layer of confidence in the investment.

From a price perspective, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 2-Tool Combo Kit provides good value. It’s competitively priced, especially when considering the quality and versatility of the tools included. For homeowners looking to maintain their yards without the burden of gas-powered equipment, this electric combo kit is a practical and eco-friendly alternative.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 2-Tool Combo Kit for homeowners with small to medium-sized yards. Its lightweight design, ease of use, and versatility make it a valuable addition to any home tool collection. The compatibility with other Ryobi ONE+ tools further enhances its appeal, offering a scalable solution for various DIY and yard maintenance tasks. While there are minor power limitations, the overall performance and build quality outweigh these drawbacks, making it a solid choice for everyday yard work.