Ryobi 18V ONE+ 1/4" Impact Driver Kit

As someone who has handled a variety of power tools over the years, I was eager to try out Ryobi’s 18V ONE+ 1/4" Impact Driver Kit (PCL235K2). Ryobi has a reputation for producing reliable and affordable tools, so I had high expectations for this kit. Spoiler alert: it didn’t disappoint.

First off, let's talk about power. The impact driver boasts a motor that delivers up to 1,800 in-lbs. of torque, and it's incredibly effective when it comes to driving screws and bolts into various materials. The first project I tackled was constructing a wooden fence, and this impact driver made light work of it. The tool’s high torque allowed me to drive 3-inch screws into old, dense wood with minimal effort.

One of the standout features is the 1/4" quick connect collet, which makes changing bits a breeze. This is a huge time-saver, especially when you're shifting between tasks that require different bits. Simply pull back the collar, swap out the bit, and you’re ready to go. The collet securely locks the bits in place, so you don’t have to worry about them slipping out during use.

The LED worklight is another handy feature, designed to improve visibility in low-light conditions. However, I noticed a minor flaw. The light doesn't activate until the driver starts to turn, which means you can’t use it to line up your bit before you begin screwing. This can be a bit of a nuisance when working in tight or dark spaces like junction boxes or drawers. I found myself wishing the light could be triggered separately or come on with a slight pull of the trigger.

On the positive side, the weight and balance of the tool are commendable. At just over three pounds with the battery attached, it’s lightweight enough for prolonged use without causing fatigue. The ergonomic design also adds to its comfort, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. This came in handy when working on subfloor repairs where space was limited.

Battery life deserves a mention, too. The kit comes with a 1.5Ah lithium-ion battery and a compatible charger. I was pleasantly surprised by how long the battery lasted. Even after a month of infrequent use, I was still on the first charge. For most DIY projects around the house, a single charge could easily last you through several tasks. However, charging the battery from empty can take a considerable amount of time—up to 8 hours in some cases. If you're in a hurry or working on a larger project, this could be a significant drawback.

In terms of speed and driving capability, the impact driver delivers up to 3,400 impacts per minute (IPM) and a maximum speed of 2,700 RPM. This makes it fast and efficient for a variety of tasks, from driving screws to loosening stubborn bolts. For example, I found it particularly effective when working on a boat deck, where the high-speed impacts made short work of fastening large screws into dense material.

One aspect that could use some improvement is the trigger mechanism. While the tool allows for variable speed control, the range feels somewhat limited. A longer trigger pull would make it easier to adjust the speed for more precise control. This is a minor inconvenience, but worth noting for those who require precision in their work.

The build quality of the impact driver is what you’d expect from Ryobi—sturdy and durable. It feels robust in hand, and all the components seem well-constructed. I didn't encounter any issues with the battery fitting loosely or the tool feeling unbalanced, which can be common problems with some budget-friendly tools.

Another crucial point is the tool’s versatility. The 18V ONE+ platform means it’s compatible with a wide range of Ryobi tools and batteries. If you already own other Ryobi products, integrating this impact driver into your collection is seamless. This compatibility is a significant advantage, as it allows you to share batteries and chargers across multiple tools, saving both money and space.

Despite some of its minor flaws, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 1/4" Impact Driver Kit offers excellent value for money. It’s powerful, versatile, and well-suited for a variety of home improvement projects. The long battery life and quick connect collet are definite highlights, making it a reliable addition to any DIY enthusiast's toolkit.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely. For the price point, you’re getting a solid, reliable impact driver that performs well in a range of applications. While it has its quirks, such as the LED light activation and lengthy battery charging time, these are minor issues that don’t detract significantly from its overall performance. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly impact driver that doesn’t compromise on power or versatility, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 1/4" Impact Driver Kit is a fantastic choice.