Ryobi 18V ONE+ Hand Vacuum

Owning a versatile, cordless hand vacuum can be a game-changer for quick clean-ups around the house, garage, or even the car. The Ryobi 18V ONE+ Hand Vacuum, model PCL705B, promises just that—portability, ease of use, and the added benefit of wet/dry functionality. Having used this tool extensively, I have a well-rounded perspective on its strengths and weaknesses.

First and foremost, the vacuum's cordless nature is a significant advantage. Powered by an 18V battery, it offers the flexibility to move around without being tethered to an outlet. This feature makes it exceptionally handy for cleaning the car or tackling small messes in areas where a corded vacuum would be cumbersome. The vacuum's lightweight design, at just 2.75 pounds, further enhances its portability, making it easy to carry and maneuver.

The suction power is commendable for a handheld vacuum. It effectively picks up pet hair, small debris, and even fine dust. The universal nozzle that accepts 1-1/4" accessories is a thoughtful addition, allowing compatibility with various attachments. This versatility is particularly useful for reaching tight spots and dealing with different types of messes.

However, the dual filter system is a bit of a double-edged sword. While it aims to improve filtration and maintain suction power, it requires frequent cleaning. The metal pre-filter tends to clog quickly, especially when dealing with fine dust or hair. This clogging significantly reduces suction power, necessitating frequent disassembly and cleaning. While the vacuum is easy to disassemble, the need to do so frequently can be a hassle, especially during more extensive cleaning tasks.

The dust cup is easy to empty, which is a plus. However, the overall capacity is somewhat limited. For small, quick clean-ups, it performs well, but for more significant messes, you'll find yourself emptying the dust cup quite often. This frequent emptying can interrupt the cleaning process and reduce efficiency.

One notable feature is the vacuum's ability to handle wet messes. It comes with a separate, rubbery, squeegee-like attachment designed for sucking up liquids. This feature is particularly useful for small spills and can prevent liquids from spreading and causing more significant issues. However, the capacity for wet messes is limited to about one cup, so it's best suited for minor spills rather than larger ones.

A point of contention is the noise level. The vacuum emits a high-pitched sound that can be somewhat grating over extended use. While it's not necessarily louder than other handheld vacuums, the pitch and tone can be bothersome, making it less ideal for indoor use where noise can be a concern.

In terms of build quality, the Ryobi hand vacuum feels durable and well-constructed. The use of durable plastics and polycarbonate materials gives it a robust feel, and it seems capable of withstanding regular use. The on/off button and container release mechanism are straightforward and user-friendly, adding to the overall ease of use.

One area where the vacuum could improve is in its design for accessory storage. It does not come with a dedicated storage solution for the various attachments, which can lead to misplacing them. A simple mesh bag or organizer would have been a valuable addition to keep everything together and easily accessible.

Battery life is another consideration. While the vacuum performs well with a fully charged battery, the runtime can be somewhat limited, especially when using the vacuum for more demanding tasks. Having additional batteries on hand can mitigate this issue, but it's something to be aware of if you plan to use the vacuum for extended periods.

Overall, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Hand Vacuum is a convenient and versatile tool that excels in portability and ease of use. Its ability to handle both dry and wet messes adds to its versatility, making it a valuable addition to any household or workshop. However, the frequent need for filter cleaning and the limited capacity can be drawbacks, particularly for more extensive cleaning tasks.

Would I recommend the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Hand Vacuum? Yes, but with some reservations. If you're looking for a portable, cordless vacuum for quick clean-ups and minor spills, this tool is a solid choice. Its compatibility with other Ryobi ONE+ tools and batteries is a significant advantage, and its lightweight design makes it easy to handle. However, if you need a vacuum for more extensive cleaning tasks or if frequent filter cleaning would be a significant inconvenience, you might want to consider other options.

In conclusion, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Hand Vacuum is a handy tool with some notable strengths and a few areas for improvement. Its portability, ease of use, and wet/dry functionality make it a versatile addition to any toolkit, but be prepared for some maintenance to keep it performing at its best.