10 RYOBI Tools That Changed My Mind (And 2 You Should Avoid)
RYOBI used to have a reputation: budget tools for weekend warriors. But let me tell you—they’ve stepped it up in a BIG way over the last couple of years. I’ve been testing RYOBI tools for years, and today I want to show you the 10 tools that absolutely blew me away... plus two you might want to skip.
Whether you're setting up a shop, upgrading tools, or just curious if RYOBI is worth the hype—this post will give you the real deal.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy through them—at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the tool deals coming, so thanks for your support! Prices are valid at the time of posting but are subject to change at any time.
Watch the Youtube Video here 👉 10 Ryobi Tools
🔧 My Top 10 RYOBI Tools That Impressed Me
1. RYOBI Barrel Grip Jigsaw
This jigsaw is a game changer. The barrel grip design feels balanced, cuts are butter-smooth, and it has:
40% less vibration than their D-handle model
Toolless blade change
Variable speed + orbital settings
Integrated dust blower
Pro Tip: Pair it with Festool blades for cuts so clean you’ll think you’re using a premium saw.
2. RYOBI Link Storage System
Wall Plates | 3-Drawer Box | Battery Shelves
I’ve added more and more of this system to my shop. Why? Because it works. You can wall-mount everything from:
Batteries
Drills
Jobsite radios
There are even small parts organizers, drill holders, and power shelves. The options are endless.
3. RYOBI Edge Battery
This 4Ah battery with tabless cell tech delivers more power, faster cuts, and longer runtime—even with older tools. It's hands-down one of the best upgrades you can make to your RYOBI lineup.
Bonus: Grab the RYOBI Power Source Adapter. It turns any 18v battery into a portable power source (AC plug + USB ports + flashlight). Perfect for camping or power outages.
4. RYOBI 18 Gauge Brad Nailer
This tool has saved me hours on planter builds. It’s:
Fast, efficient, and cordless
Easy to switch into bump-fire mode
Adjustable depth dial + LED light
Pair it with the 16 Gauge Finish Nailer and Crown Stapler to round out your nailer setup.
5. Tri-Power Tower Light
If you’re working in dim areas, this light is bright, tall, and super versatile:
Powered by 18v, 40v, or standard AC plug
4 rotating light heads
Telescopes taller than me (I’m 5’11”!)
Detaches from base for portability
6. RYOBI ONE+ HP Drill + Impact Combo
RYOBI’s brushless HP line means pro-level power without the pro-level price. The impact driver is snappy, and the hammer drill has:
22 clutch settings
Hammer mode
Lightweight design
Great for DIYers or pros looking to expand their lineup affordably.
7. GEN2 Circular Saw
This thing cuts like a beast. You get:
7-1/4" blade
Metal base and guards
56° bevel w/ detents
Better performance vs Gen1 (we tested it!)
Pair it with an Edge battery and it’ll chew through 2x material without bogging down.
8. One-Hand Recip Saw
Perfect for small demo, trimming, or emergency fixes. Features:
Variable speed trigger
Toolless blade change
Compact size, but still packs a punch
Everyone needs one of these. Trust me.
9. ONE+ HP Trim Router
This is one of the best compact routers I’ve used. It’s lightweight, brushless, and easy to adjust:
Fine depth adjustment dial
Variable speed
LED lighting
Comfortable, ergonomic grip
Way better than the old top-heavy brushed version they used to offer.
10A. Speedbench Dolly Workbench
It’s a dolly that transforms into a portable workbench—perfect for:
Small shops
Jobsite setup
Quick breakdown/storage
Only downside? The printed scale isn’t super accurate. Just use your tape.
10B. Folding Wall Workbench
Mounts in minutes and folds up flat when not in use. Holds 300 lbs and has a built-in mini shelf for small tools or speakers.
Perfect for garages or tight shops where space is gold.
❌ 2 RYOBI Tools I Don’t Recommend
1. RYOBI Table Saw
It’s one of the cheapest table saws on the market, but the fence is just plain bad and hard to trust. Without a solid, square fence, you’ll constantly fight for accuracy, wasting time, materials, and patience. If the fence won’t lock in straight, your cuts won’t be either — and that’s a big problem, especially for repeatable rips, cabinetry, or anything that needs clean, square edges. I’ve tried to make it work, but honestly, it’s more frustrating than it’s worth.
Better Alternatives:
2. RYOBI Track Saw
If you’re only breaking down plywood, the RYOBI track saw will get the job done. But the riving knife plunges down with the blade, which makes true plunge cuts nearly impossible. It’s also underpowered, especially for thicker hardwoods.
Try these instead:
Triton for budget
WEN cordless
Or check out my full track saw tier list here →
🌱 BONUS: RYOBI 40v Lawn Mower
I love this thing. It’s fast, quiet, cuts clean, and runs on two 6Ah batteries. For small to mid-size yards, it’s a no-brainer.
Also worth checking out:
💡 Final Thoughts: Is RYOBI Worth It?
You better believe it. I’ve used these tools in real projects and I’m genuinely impressed. Are they all perfect? Nope. But when you choose the right ones—like the tools listed above—you’re getting serious value.
If you're looking to build a shop on a budget, or add more cordless tools without breaking the bank, RYOBI is one of the best ecosystems to get into.
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