Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 650 CFM Whisper Series Blower

As a long-time enthusiast of outdoor power equipment, I was eager to put the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 650 CFM Whisper Series Blower to the test. My yard, which is a mix of lawn, trees, and a gravel driveway, presents the perfect proving ground for any leaf blower, and I was particularly intrigued by the promise of high power combined with quiet operation.

First impressions are often telling, and the Ryobi blower did not disappoint. Right out of the box, the assembly was straightforward and quick. The components felt sturdy, with a good weight distribution that made handling the blower comfortable. At 10.35 lbs, it’s not the lightest blower on the market, but it’s balanced well enough to make extended use manageable.

One of the standout features of this blower is the turbo button, which provides an impressive boost in power when dealing with stubborn debris. In my case, the turbo function effortlessly cleared wet leaves and pine needles that had accumulated on my gravel driveway without disturbing the gravel itself. The variable speed trigger gave me precise control over the airflow, making it easy to adjust the power to suit the task at hand. For lighter tasks, the cruise control feature was a welcome addition, reducing hand fatigue during prolonged use.

Noise level is a significant consideration for many users, especially in residential areas, and this is where the Ryobi blower excels. Operating at just 57 dB, it’s remarkably quiet compared to gas-powered counterparts. I was able to use it early in the morning without worrying about disturbing the neighbors, which is a tremendous plus.

The blower’s performance is underpinned by its brushless motor, which not only contributes to the quieter operation but also extends the longevity of the tool. The advertised air volume of 650 CFM and airspeed of 160 MPH proved to be accurate in my testing, providing ample power for both light and heavy-duty tasks. The speed tip attachment, which allows for adjustments between 140 MPH and 160 MPH, added a layer of versatility, making it easier to target specific areas with more precision.

Battery life is always a critical factor with cordless tools, and here the Ryobi blower shows both strengths and weaknesses. On a full charge, the 40V battery delivered a runtime of around 20-25 minutes on high power, which was sufficient for most of my yard work. However, for larger properties or more intensive tasks, having a second battery on hand would be advisable. The recharge time is approximately 45 minutes, which is reasonable, but it does mean you’ll need to plan your work around these intervals if you don’t have a spare battery.

While the blower is generally robust, there are a few areas where I noticed room for improvement. The plastic nozzle, although effective, felt a bit flimsy, and I had concerns about its long-term durability. Additionally, taller or shorter users might find the fixed position of the intake tube less than ideal, as it requires some adjustment in handling to achieve optimal suction. A more adjustable intake design could enhance user comfort across a broader range of heights.

The debris bag, when used in vacuum mode, can become quite heavy, which might be a concern for some users. Adding a roller support in front of the bag could significantly improve maneuverability and reduce strain, especially during extended use.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall build quality of the Ryobi blower is solid, and the 5-year limited warranty provides additional peace of mind. It’s clear that Ryobi has put thought into the design and functionality of this tool, aiming to meet the needs of both casual users and more demanding tasks.

In conclusion, the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 650 CFM Whisper Series Blower is a powerful, quiet, and versatile tool that performs well in a variety of yard conditions. Its user-friendly features, such as the turbo button, variable speed trigger, and cruise control, make it easy to handle and effective in operation. While the battery life could be longer and the nozzle more durable, these are relatively minor issues that do not significantly detract from the blower’s overall performance.

I would recommend this blower to anyone looking for a reliable and powerful cordless option for their yard maintenance needs. Its quiet operation, combined with substantial power and ease of use, make it a valuable addition to any homeowner’s tool collection. Whether you’re clearing leaves, grass clippings, or more stubborn debris, this blower is up to the task and makes the job considerably easier and more enjoyable.