Ryobi Tools has become a leader in the cordless power tools market, combining affordability with cutting-edge battery technology. As a The Home Depot exclusive brand since 2000, Ryobi Tools has captured roughly 20% of the outdoor equipment market. According to industry analysts, the global power tools market is booming with forecasts showing cordless tools accounting for 84% of all growth through 2029. In this landscape, Ryobi Tools continually expands its lineup of cordless drills, saws, blowers, mowers and more to meet both DIY and pro demands.
The brand touts over 300+ ONE+ 18V products and 85+ high-performance 40V products, all sharing compatible battery platforms. Ryobi’s focus on innovation, from brushless motors to quieter Whisper Series outdoor gear, underpins its reputation as the #1 DIY and cordless outdoor power brand worldwide.
The rise of Ryobi mirrors the industry’s cordless conversion: today’s consumers overwhelmingly prefer battery-powered tools for convenience and environmental reasons. Global market reports note that electric (mostly cordless) tools will drive future growth, with cordless products making up the lion’s share of new sales. Ryobi Tools stays on this trend by continually evolving its battery systems. For example, its 18V ONE+ system (with over 300 compatible tools) uses advanced lithium-ion cells that yield exceptional runtime and power.
High-capacity HIGH PERFORMANCE EDGE batteries (4.0 Ah and above) employ new 21700 tabless cell technology, effectively doubling power and quadrupling runtime compared to older cells. Innovative features like COOL-CORE PRO™ cooling (reducing battery temperature by ~25%) and built-in LED charge gauges further boost performance and safety. These battery advances allow Ryobi tools to compete with gas-powered equipment in both power and longevity.
Ryobi Tools: A Leader in Cordless Power
Ryobi Tools is recognized as the #1 DIY tool brand worldwide. Its affordable lineup spans everything from entry-level hand tools to professional-grade equipment. A key to this leadership is Ryobi’s partnership with The Home Depot. Ryobi became an exclusive Home Depot supplier in 2000, ensuring wide availability of its products. As Home Depot’s senior management notes, “Ryobi continues to improve power and run time every season…bringing innovative, new products to customers”.
This Home Depot exclusivity means customers often find “Ryobi Tools near me” at local Home Depot stores or authorized dealers across North America. The Home Depot’s store locator (and its online inventory) make it easy to track down Ryobi toolkits and accessories in any region.
Ryobi’s rapid growth is also fueled by market trends. With global forecasts pointing to multi-billion-dollar power tool sales in the coming years, Ryobi has secured a strong foothold. In outdoor power tools alone, Ryobi (a Home Depot exclusive) commands nearly 20% market share a remarkable position achieved in just a few decades.
By continually refreshing its cordless offerings and expanding into new categories (like large battery mowers), Ryobi stays ahead of rivals. Importantly, its battery platforms mean that new tools are backward-compatible: any 18V ONE+ battery works with any ONE+ tool (drill, saw, trimmer, etc.). This universal battery approach lowers cost for users and fosters brand loyalty.
Key Facts About Ryobi Tools (Quick Overview)
- Cordless Leader: #1 DIY power tool brand and top cordless outdoor brand.
- Battery Platforms: 18V ONE+ (300+ tools), 40V HP (85+ tools), USB Lithium (30+ devices).
- Brushless Technology: High-performance (HP) brushless motors and electronics deliver more torque and runtime.
- Customer Support: Partnerships and warranties (see FAQ below) back up product reliability.
- Market Share: ~20% share of outdoor power tools.
These factors combine to make Ryobi Tools a versatile, user-friendly brand – whether you’re a casual homeowner or a dedicated DIY enthusiast.
Battery Platforms: 18V ONE+, 40V & USB Lithium
Ryobi’s product lines are organized by battery voltage systems. Each system shares a common platform so that batteries are interchangeable among compatible tools.
- 18V ONE+ System: This is Ryobi’s core ecosystem. Launched in 1996, the 18V ONE+ platform now boasts over 300 tools – from drills and impact drivers to cordless shop vacuums. A single 18V ONE+ battery (available in 1.5Ah, 2.0Ah, 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah, 6.0Ah, etc.) can power any ONE+ tool. For example, a typical Ryobi 2-Tool Combo Kit includes a cordless drill/driver, a circular saw, two batteries, a charger, and a bag – and users can mix and match batteries among these and over 300 other tools. This cross-compatibility drastically increases convenience.
- Advanced 18V Batteries: The latest Ryobi 18V batteries use 21700 “tabless” cells. The High Performance (HP) batteries claim 2× the power and 4× the runtime of prior versions. They also feature COOL-CORE PRO™ design, keeping cells cooler (25% less heat) for longer life. All Ryobi 18V ONE+ batteries include an LED fuel gauge to monitor charge and built-in IntelliCell smart electronics to prolong battery life.
- Brushless Tools on ONE+: Many new ONE+ tools use brushless motors. These brushless drills, saws and impact drivers run cooler and more efficiently, offering the power of larger tools in compact form. For instance, a brushless 18V drill can deliver more torque and speed while drawing less current, maximizing battery runtime.
- 40V HP (High Performance) Outdoor Line: A separate high-voltage system (nominally 40 volts) covers larger outdoor equipment. It includes batteries and tools like:
- Lawn Mowers: Cordless self-propelled and riding mowers. For example, the 42-inch HP Brushless Riding Mower replaces gas mowers with a battery engine.
- String Trimmers, Blowers, Chainsaws, Hedge Trimmers: These heavy-duty cordless tools boast power comparable to gas models, thanks to larger (2Ah–5Ah) 40V batteries.
- Fast Charging: Many 40V chargers offer rapid recharge, and because they are high-capacity, some Ryobi customers use smart charging strategies (like alternating batteries) to minimize downtime.
- Performance: The 40V system is engineered to “deliver the power of traditional outdoor gas equipment”. In fact, Ryobi’s Whisper Series of 40V tools (mowers and blowers) emphasizes quiet operation. These Whisper products reduce noise significantly (Ryobi cites decibel-level reductions) while maintaining the force of gas tools. This makes them ideal for suburban neighborhoods or early-morning yard work.
- USB Lithium / Power Stations: Ryobi also offers a line of USB Lithium chargers and battery packs (around 12V output). These include portable power stations, jump starters, inflators, and even AA/AAA battery replacement packs that charge via USB. In total, there are 30+ USB Lithium devices. This is an innovative niche, as it eliminates disposable batteries in many applications. For example, a Ryobi 18V battery pack with USB ports can recharge phones or small electronics at a job site.
Overall, Ryobi’s strategy is “one battery, many tools.” The huge ecosystem means a single charger and multiple batteries can feed dozens of devices. Any Ryobi 18V ONE+ battery, regardless of its amp-hours, will fit every ONE+ tool. Users appreciate this – buying a Ryobi drill today means the batteries will power whatever new Ryobi tool you pick up next year.
Performance and Innovation
Beyond batteries, Ryobi invests heavily in technology to improve tool performance and user experience:
- Brushless High Performance (HP): Ryobi’s HP tools use brushless DC motors with intelligent electronics. Brushless motors have no carbon brushes, so they waste less energy as heat and require less maintenance. The result is more power, longer runtime, and longer tool life. For example, Ryobi HP impacts and circular saws cut faster and deeper using the same battery packs.
- Electronic Systems: Many Ryobi tools include built-in microcontrollers. Features like INTELLICELL™ battery management optimize current draw, protecting cells and balancing charge. Other tools have electronic variable-speed triggers, torque control (clutch) settings, and even onboard batteries that power LEDs or fuel gauges.
- Expand-It Attachment System: A unique Ryobi innovation is the Expand-It line. This system uses a single 40V powerhead (motor unit) that can accept dozens of interchangeable attachments (edgers, trenchers, blowers, etc.). Rather than buying many separate tools, you buy one powerhead and add the attachments you need. This modularity saves space and cost, leveraging Ryobi’s battery platform across tasks (similar to Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL system or other attachments).
- Eco and Quiet Technology: Ryobi Tools prioritize eco-friendliness. The cordless models eliminate onsite emissions and reduce noise. The Whisper Series (described below) exemplifies this, but even standard models often use sound-dampening. In general, electric drive makes Ryobi equipment far quieter and cleaner than gas.
- Durability and Design: Ryobi Tools often feature weather-resistant designs (rubber overmolds, sealed switches) for outdoor use. Batteries and chargers have protectors against dust and moisture. Many tools have internal parts like copper windings and steel gears built to endure. Though Ryobi targets prosumers and DIYers, the build quality is robust.
Ryobi also integrates user-friendly touches: onboard LED worklights on drills/saws for dark corners, belt clips for easy carrying, or Bluetooth connectivity on some advanced models. With each new product cycle, these improvements keep Ryobi competitive.
Popular Tools and Combo Kits
Ryobi offers a wide range of specific tools, and many are bundled in combo kits that provide excellent value:
- Drill and Driver Kits: The classic is a 2-tool kit with a drill/driver and an impact driver (or circular saw) plus batteries and charger. For example, a 2-tool ONE+ kit includes a 1/2″ drill/driver, a circular saw, two 1.5Ah batteries, and a charger in a bag. This gives beginners a complete starter set.
- Multi-Tool Kits: Expanded kits might include additional tools – 4-tool or 6-tool kits with two batteries, charger, and bag. A typical 6-tool kit could contain a drill, impact driver, circular saw, reciprocating saw, multi-tool, LED work light, plus high-capacity batteries and charger. These kits are especially popular with new homeowners.
- Outdoor Kits: Ryobi’s outdoor combo kits may bundle a trimmer, blower, and battery/charger. For example, a 40V starter bundle might have a string trimmer, blower, two batteries, and charger. Home Depot often sells “package deals” on such yard tool sets.
- Accessory Kits: They also sell accessory packs (drill bit sets, saw blade kits, jack stands, etc.) that complement the tools, though these typically do not carry batteries.
- Specialty Tools: Ryobi’s lineup is so broad that you can find cordless solutions for odd jobs: cordless hot glue gun, electric cement mixer, portable work lights, battery-powered audio speaker, and more. Each of these runs on the ONE+ batteries, showing how pervasive the platform is.
Ryobi Tools saw offerings are extensive: circular saws (5-1/2″ and 7-1/4″ sizes, including HP brushless models), miter saws (RYOBI, not to be confused with Ryobi brand miter saws which are under RYOBI Professional), jigsaws, reciprocating saws, and table saws for the workshop. Their drills range from compact 1/2″ drills to larger hammer drills and impact drivers, many now brushless.
Because Ryobi emphasizes ease of use, many kits and tools also come with extras: charger docks can accept multiple battery types, and the battery packs often have fuel gauge LEDs. Home Depot displays note that Ryobi ONE+ batteries are 25 years backwards compatible with older tools. (In fact, [60] footnote: “With over 25 years of battery compatibility, RYOBI™ 18V ONE+ batteries are compatible with any RYOBI™ 18V ONE+ product”.)
Overall, Ryobi Tools sets and kits give DIYers a quick way to build a toolbox. The brand’s widespread presence at Home Depot – both in stores and online – means finding these kits is easy. For example, searching “Ryobi Tools combo kit” on The Home Depot website returns dozens of options. These kits often feature “Ryobi Tools battery” prominently, reminding buyers that everything is battery-powered.
Outdoor Power and Whisper Series
Ryobi’s outdoor power equipment (OPE) is designed to take battery power beyond small hand tools. The goal is clear: replace gasoline engines. Ryobi’s high-capacity 40V batteries power a broad outdoor lineup:
- Lawn Mowers: Push mowers, self-propelled mowers, and even riding mowers (the 42″ and 54″ HP Brushless Models). These electric mowers offer multi-speed cutting and deck washout ports. The riding mowers boast quick changes to 2WD/4WD, zero-turn capability, and can mow for a full acre on two batteries.
- Trimmers & Edgers: String trimmers and edgers run on the same 40V batteries. Most are multi-position (convertible to edger) and feature adjustable shafts and speed control.
- Blowers and Vacuum Mulchers: Backpack and handheld blowers replace leaf blowers, often with a vacuum/mulching kit. Many Ryobi blowers run quieter than gas blowers.
- Hedge Trimmers and Chainsaws: Battery hedge trimmers and chainsaws let users maintain shrubbery and cut brush with less vibration.
- Pressure Washers, Snow Blowers, Generators: Ryobi even sells 40V-powered pressure washers and snow blowers, plus inverter generators that run on 40V batteries (for very low-duty backup power).
A key innovation in these outdoor tools is the Ryobi Whisper Series. As CSRwire notes, “The Whisper Series provides users with convenient, powerful solutions at low decibel levels running on lithium batteries. These products reduce noise while delivering the power of traditional outdoor gas equipment.”. In other words, you get near-gas performance (high air volume or cutting power) without the loud engine noise. For example, a Whisper Series blower might move as much air as a 52cc gas blower but at a fraction of the noise. This makes Ryobi Tools especially attractive in noise-sensitive neighborhoods and for early-morning chores.
In use, customers report that Ryobi 40V mowers can handle a whole yard on a single charge, and leave the lawn mulched or bagged without fumes. The convenience of cordless also shows up in maintenance: no oil changes or spark plugs, just charging and occasional belt checks. Many users note that Ryobi’s high-amp batteries charge faster than expected; having a spare battery can often be enough to mow a medium lawn back-to-back.
Ryobi Tools Battery care is straightforward: always use the matched charger (Ryobi chargers are optimized per battery type) and store batteries out of extreme cold or heat. Because the batteries have onboard CPU management, Ryobi recommends storing them at partial charge (around 50%) for long-term storage and topping them before use if they sit idle for months. The brand even participates in battery recycling programs (see Ryobi’s website for drop-off details).
Finally, one advantage of buying Ryobi OPE gear is the Home Depot support network. If a part or accessory is needed (blades, belts, etc.), Home Depot can often order it for you. And Ryobi’s online manuals and repair parts lists are usually accessible on the Ryobi Tools website. This gives confidence to outdoor users who may be tackling tough jobs.
Convenience, Warranty, and Support
Ryobi Tools products are designed for easy ownership:
- Wide Availability: As a Home Depot-exclusive brand in the U.S., Ryobi products are sold in thousands of stores and online. Most North American Home Depot locations carry a broad selection of ONE+ and 40V tools. The Home Depot website and store locator make finding specific Ryobi Tools (and accessories) near you very simple. For global readers, Ryobi is sold under various distributors (e.g., TTI licenses Ryobi to many regions).
- Warranties: Ryobi backs its tools with solid limited warranties (details may vary by region). Generally, Ryobi 18V ONE+ tools and batteries come with a 3-year limited warranty, reflecting high confidence in reliability. Many 40V (and newer 80V) products come with extended warranties (often 3 years on tools and 5 years on batteries upon registration). These policies are competitive with other major brands. For example, several Ryobi batteries explicitly list 3-year warranties in product specs, and many heavy-duty items offer 5-year coverage. (Check your local Ryobi Tools website or Home Depot listing for exact terms of any specific product’s warranty.)
- Customer Support: Ryobi provides service centers and parts through both its website and Home Depot’s networks. The Ryobi website has a product registration portal (to activate warranties) and a service center locator. Home Depot’s customer service lines and tool rental desks can also assist with Ryobi Tool issues. Users frequently note that Ryobi’s customer service is responsive, and spare parts are reasonably priced.
- Easy Returns and Service: Home Depot’s general policy typically allows 90-day returns on Ryobi products for most customers. Additionally, Home Depot offers free in-store or mail returns for Ryobi Tools (a feature noted on product pages). This makes it easy to try out tools and return them if needed.
Summary: With its user-friendly design, reliable batteries, and extensive support network, Ryobi Tools aims to make power tools accessible. From the five-year warranties on batteries to the hundreds of compatible accessories, Ryobi’s ecosystem is built to last. This focus on convenience — “how the tools work best together” — sets Ryobi apart in the crowded power tools market.
Conclusion
Ryobi Tools has engineered a cordless revolution in DIY and outdoor equipment. By focusing on battery innovation, broad product compatibility, and affordability, Ryobi has crafted a powerful lineup that suits everyone from casual homeowners to serious craftsmen. The brand’s ongoing enhancements (brushless motors, quieter engines, and new battery formats) keep it on the cutting edge of power tool tech.
For anyone interested in upgrading their toolkit, Ryobi Tools offers real value: one battery powers hundreds of tools, and combo kits get you started right away. With strong warranties and easy access at The Home Depot (or online “near you”), Ryobi makes it simple to switch to battery power. Explore the latest Ryobi cordless gear and experience the power and convenience yourself.
Ready to try Ryobi? Head to your local Home Depot or visit HomeDepot.com (it’s exclusive there) to find Ryobi Tools combo kits, batteries, and accessories. Share your favorite Ryobi projects or questions in the comments below, and don’t forget to spread the word on social media. The future is cordless – let Ryobi Tools power your next project!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What types of tools are included in Ryobi Tools combo kits?
A: Ryobi combo kits typically bundle multiple cordless power tools and accessories. For example, a 2-tool kit might include a Ryobi drill/driver, a circular saw, two 18V batteries, and a charger. Larger kits can include up to 6 tools (e.g., drill, impact driver, recip saw, multi-tool, light) plus batteries and a carrying bag. These kits use Ryobi’s ONE+ battery system, so all included batteries work in any ONE+ tool.
Q: Are Ryobi Tools exclusively sold at Home Depot?
A: Yes, in the U.S. Ryobi Tools are a Home Depot exclusive brand. This means you can only purchase new Ryobi power tools and batteries at Home Depot stores or HomeDepot.com. Home Depot’s website features a store locator so you can find “Ryobi Tools near me” easily. In Canada, Australia, Europe, and other markets, Ryobi Tools are sold through corresponding TTI distributors (for example, Ryobi Tools.ca in Canada).
Q: Do Ryobi Tools come with batteries and chargers?
A: Some Ryobi tools are sold “bare tool” (tool only), but many are sold in kits or “starter sets” that include batteries and a charger. A typical ONE+ combo kit will include 1–2 batteries and a charger as part of the package. You can also buy batteries and chargers separately. Remember, any ONE+ battery will work with any ONE+ charger, and vice versa. For 40V outdoor tools, 40V batteries and chargers are usually included in kits or sold as bundles.
Q: How long do Ryobi batteries last and how do I maximize their life?
A: A Ryobi high-performance 18V battery (e.g. 4.0Ah) can typically run an average drill for an hour or more, and a full 6Ah battery can last even longer. For demanding tools, runtime will be shorter (for instance, an 18V impact wrench might run 15–20 minutes at max load on a 2Ah battery). To maximize battery life, store Ryobi batteries at room temperature and avoid leaving them fully discharged for long periods. Charge them at least to 30-50% if you won’t use them for a while. Using the correct charger and not overcharging (most Ryobi chargers stop when full) also helps.
Q: What kind of warranty do Ryobi Tools have?
A: Warranty terms can vary, but typically Ryobi power tools and batteries carry a 3-year limited warranty in North America. Many 40V and 80V products offer extended warranties (for example, 5-year warranty on batteries) once you register the product online. Always register your Ryobi Tools after purchase on the Ryobi website to activate the warranty. If you encounter an issue, you can return items to Home Depot or contact Ryobi customer service for warranty service or replacement parts.
Q: Why should I choose Ryobi Tools over other brands?
A: Ryobi is often chosen for its combination of value and variety. With Ryobi, you get a huge selection of tools all running on the same battery system. This means you can expand your collection without needing new batteries or chargers. Ryobi also emphasizes ease of use and comfort (many tools are lightweight and ergonomically designed). Additionally, Ryobi frequently wins awards for customer satisfaction, and its battery technology (e.g. HP EDGE batteries) provides performance on par with higher-priced brands in many tests. If you shop at Home Depot, Ryobi Tools are readily available, often on sale, and supported by Home Depot’s return policy.
Q: Is there a Ryobi Tools store or dealer locator?
A: While Ryobi Tools themselves don’t have standalone stores, The Home Depot is the primary retailer. You can use Home Depot’s Store Locator (available on their website) to find the nearest Home Depot carrying Ryobi Tools. Some authorized third-party sellers and rental stores may carry Ryobi, but new Ryobi Tools are generally found at Home Depot in the U.S. Ryobi also has international websites (like Ryobitools.ca for Canada) with their own store locators.
Q: What new innovative power gear is Ryobi working on for 2025?
A: Ryobi continuously updates its lineup. Recently we’ve seen more brushless ONE+ tools, 40V Expand-It kits, and even an 80V battery system for heavy-duty outdoor gear. The introduction of Ryobi’s first battery-powered zero-turn lawn tractors (80V HP) shows their move into professional-grade equipment. We can expect Ryobi to expand HP Brushless tools (higher torque, faster speeds) and more smart features (such as apps or connectivity) in the coming years. Keep an eye on Home Depot announcements and Ryobi’s official channels for the latest releases.
Q: How does Ryobi Tools compare on price and quality?
A: Ryobi is generally positioned as a value leader for DIYers. Its tools are usually cheaper than “pro” brands like DeWalt or Milwaukee, but often nearly match their performance thanks to modern battery tech. Quality is solid, especially for the price; thousands of user reviews attest to Ryobi’s reliability for home and light commercial work. For most customers, Ryobi offers the best price-to-performance ratio in its category. Plus, with Home Depot’s frequent sales and combo kit deals, getting started with Ryobi batteries and chargers is very cost-effective.
