Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit is a versatile addition to any tool collection, particularly for those who are already invested in the Ryobi ONE+ battery platform. The kit includes a 1/2" Drill/Driver, a 1/4" Impact Driver, two 18V 2Ah Lithium batteries, a charger, a tool bag, and a Multi-Tool. Having spent some time with this kit, I’ve grown to appreciate its utility, while also recognizing areas where it could improve.

Design and Build Quality

Straight out of the box, the tools have a solid and robust feel. The 1/2" Drill/Driver features a 24-position clutch, which provides adjustable torque settings that are beneficial for a range of applications. The metal ratcheting chuck is a nice touch, adding to the durability and ensuring a secure grip on drill bits.

The Impact Driver, on the other hand, is equipped with a one-handed bit release, making bit changes quick and hassle-free. It’s also quite compact, which is a significant advantage when working in tight spaces. The Multi-Tool, included in the kit, is equally well-crafted and offers variable speed control which ranges from 10,000 to 20,000 oscillations per minute.

Performance

Performance is an area where the Ryobi combo kit shines. The Drill/Driver offers two-speed settings (0-500 RPM and 0-2,100 RPM) and up to 750 in-lbs of torque, which is sufficient for most DIY and light professional tasks. The clutch settings are precise, and the tool feels balanced and comfortable in hand.

The Impact Driver is a powerhouse, delivering up to 2,200 in-lbs of torque. With a variable speed trigger, it can reach up to 2,900 RPM and 4,000 impacts per minute, making it suitable for driving long screws and bolts. The driver’s compact size belies its power, and I found it particularly effective for automotive work and heavy-duty fastening.

The Multi-Tool rounds out the kit nicely. Its 3.6° oscillation angle and variable speed control make it a versatile tool for sanding, cutting, and scraping. The transition between tasks is seamless, thanks to the tool-free accessory change system.

Usability

One of the standout features of this kit is its ease of use. Both the Drill/Driver and Impact Driver are lightweight and ergonomically designed, reducing fatigue during extended use. The rubberized grip on both tools adds to the comfort, and the placement of the controls feels intuitive.

The integrated LED work lights on the tools are bright and well-positioned, ensuring that your work area is well-lit even in low-light conditions. The batteries come with an integrated fuel gauge, which is extremely convenient for keeping track of power levels.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is always a critical factor, and the 2Ah batteries included in this kit perform admirably. They offer a good balance between power and runtime. For more demanding tasks, you might want to consider higher-capacity batteries, but for most DIY projects, these will suffice.

The charger included in the kit is compact and efficient, fully charging the batteries in about an hour. This quick turnaround time means less downtime and more productivity.

Areas for Improvement

While the Ryobi combo kit has a lot to offer, there are a few areas where it falls short. The Impact Driver, while powerful, can be somewhat noisy. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re working in noise-sensitive environments.

Another minor gripe is the absence of a belt clip and bit holder on the Drill/Driver. These small additions could enhance usability and convenience, especially for those who frequently switch between tasks.

Additionally, while the tools are robust, the plastic components on the batteries could benefit from more padding and shock absorption. This would make them more durable and able to withstand the occasional drop.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

Overall, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit is a solid choice for both DIY enthusiasts and light professional use. Its combination of power, versatility, and ease of use makes it a valuable addition to any toolbox. The fact that it’s compatible with the extensive range of Ryobi ONE+ tools is a significant advantage, allowing you to expand your collection without investing in new batteries and chargers.

I would recommend this tool kit for its well-rounded capabilities and excellent value for money. Whether you’re tackling home improvement projects, automotive repairs, or light construction tasks, this kit has the tools you need to get the job done efficiently and effectively. While there are a few areas that could be improved, they are relatively minor and do not detract from the overall performance and utility of the tools.