Ryobi 40V 2-Tool Combo Kit

The Ryobi 40V 2-Tool Combo Kit, consisting of a string trimmer and a blower, is a practical addition to any homeowner's tool collection. Having spent some time with these tools, I can offer a detailed account of their performance, features, and overall value.

Design and Build Quality

Both the string trimmer and blower are powered by a robust 40V battery, which is a significant upgrade from the lower voltage alternatives. The battery itself is easy to swap between the tools, making it convenient for extended yard work sessions. The trimmer weighs in at 11.6 lbs, while the blower is slightly lighter at 8.6 lbs. Both tools are well-balanced, which helps reduce fatigue during prolonged use.

String Trimmer Performance

The string trimmer in this combo kit is designed to offer power comparable to a 25cc gas trimmer. I found this claim to be fairly accurate. The trimmer handles typical yard tasks with ease, from edging to tackling overgrown grass. The adjustable cutting width, ranging from 13" to 15", adds a layer of versatility, allowing you to adapt to different trimming needs. Personally, I found the 15" width to be the sweet spot for most tasks.

One feature that stands out is the variable speed trigger. This allows for better control over the trimming process, which is particularly useful when working around delicate plants or tight corners. However, the ergonomics of the handle could be improved. At 5'8", I found the angle and grip to be slightly uncomfortable after extended use. This might be less of an issue for taller users.

Blower Performance

The blower is advertised to deliver power similar to a 25cc gas blower, and it lives up to this expectation for the most part. It offers an air volume of 550 CFM and a speed of 120 MPH, which is sufficient for clearing leaves and light debris from driveways and decks. The blower is straightforward to use, and the variable speed trigger provides precise control over the airflow.

One minor drawback is the placement of the intake on the side, which can occasionally suck in clothing if you're not careful. This is a small inconvenience but worth noting. Overall, the blower is effective for light to moderate tasks and operates for over 75 minutes on a full charge with the 4Ah battery.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial aspect of any cordless tool, and the 40V battery in this combo kit performs admirably. During my testing, I found that the battery lasted long enough to complete most yard tasks without needing a recharge. However, for larger properties or more intensive tasks, you might find yourself wishing for a bit more juice. Having an extra battery on hand could be a worthwhile investment.

Ease of Use

Both tools are user-friendly and straightforward to operate. The string trimmer's line feeding mechanism works well, reducing the hassle of manually adjusting the line. However, I did notice that it tends to use up the string fairly quickly, so keep some extra line handy. The blower, on the other hand, is intuitive and doesn't require much effort to get the hang of.

Durability

The build quality of both tools is robust, though not without its flaws. The materials used are durable enough for regular use, but they don't quite match the sturdiness of higher-end gas-powered alternatives. That said, for the price point, the durability is more than acceptable. I did not experience any issues with parts breaking or malfunctioning during my testing period.

Value for Money

Considering the features and performance, the Ryobi 40V 2-Tool Combo Kit offers good value for money. It provides the convenience of cordless operation without sacrificing too much power. The ability to use the same battery for both tools is a significant advantage, making this combo kit a practical choice for homeowners looking to maintain their yards without the hassle of gas-powered equipment.

Conclusion

Would I recommend the Ryobi 40V 2-Tool Combo Kit? Absolutely, with some caveats. If you're looking for a convenient, easy-to-use solution for typical yard maintenance tasks, this combo kit is a solid choice. The string trimmer and blower both perform well, and the 40V battery provides ample power and decent runtime.

However, if you have a larger property or require more intensive power, you might find the battery life and power output slightly lacking. In such cases, investing in an additional battery or considering higher-end models might be worth exploring.

Overall, the Ryobi 40V 2-Tool Combo Kit strikes a good balance between performance, convenience, and value, making it a worthy addition to any homeowner's tool arsenal.