Top Ryobi Cordless Drills of 2024: Best Overall, Budget and Mid-Range
Introduction
When it comes to tackling home improvement projects, having the right tools can make all the difference. Ryobi's line of cordless drills, particularly the 18V ONE+ series, offers a range of options that cater to both novice DIYers and seasoned professionals alike. In 2024, Ryobi continues to deliver powerful, efficient, and versatile drills that can handle everything from light-duty tasks to heavy-duty jobs with ease. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option, a mid-range performer, or the best overall drill, our comprehensive guide highlights the top Ryobi cordless drills of 2024 to help you make an informed choice.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we break down the best Ryobi cordless drills of 2024 into three distinct categories to help you find the perfect tool for your needs:
- Best Overall: Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Compact Brushless 1/2" Drill/Driver (Model: PSBDD01)
This high-performance drill features a compact brushless motor for enhanced efficiency and power, making it perfect for demanding tasks without compromising portability. - Best Budget: Ryobi 18V ONE+ 3/8" Drill/Driver (Model: PDD209)
This lightweight and efficient drill offers an impressive 300 in-lbs of torque at an affordable price, making it ideal for everyday tasks without breaking the bank. - Best Mid-Range: Ryobi 18V ONE+ 1/2" Drill/Driver (Model: PCL206)
This versatile drill/driver offers impressive torque and a dual-speed setting, making it ideal for a variety of drilling and fastening tasks.
With these options, we hope you'll find a Ryobi cordless drill that perfectly fits your requirements and budget!
Quick List
How We Chose the Products
Selecting the best Ryobi cordless drills of 2024 involved a thorough and methodical approach to ensure we provide you with reliable recommendations. Here’s how we made our selections:
- Extensive Research: We began by conducting in-depth research into the current market offerings. This included analyzing specifications, customer reviews, and expert opinions on various Ryobi cordless drills to identify standout features and performance metrics.
- Performance Testing: Each drill was put through a series of hands-on tests to evaluate its performance in real-world scenarios. We assessed torque, battery life, weight, and ease of use across different tasks, including drilling into wood, metal, and other materials.
- User Feedback: We considered user feedback from various platforms, taking into account ratings and comments from everyday consumers. This helped us understand common issues, benefits, and the overall satisfaction levels of users regarding each model.
- Comparison with Competitors: To ensure that our recommendations are competitive, we compared Ryobi models with other brands in the same category. This analysis allowed us to determine the value propositions and unique selling points of Ryobi's offerings.
- Expert Insights: We consulted with industry professionals and tool enthusiasts to gather their insights on what makes a cordless drill truly exceptional. Their expertise guided us in identifying key features that matter most to users.
By combining thorough research, hands-on testing, and valuable user feedback, we were able to identify the best Ryobi cordless drills of 2024 that meet a variety of needs and budgets.
Overall Best Ryobi Cordless Drill/Driver
For 2024, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Compact Brushless 1/2" Drill/Driver (Model: PSBDD01) stands out as the best overall choice. This drill combines a powerful brushless motor with a compact design, delivering exceptional performance for a wide range of tasks.
Key Features:
- Powerful Brushless Motor: Provides enhanced efficiency and longer runtime.
- Torque: Delivers up to 750 in-lbs of torque, making it capable of handling demanding applications.
- Compact Design: Lightweight and easy to maneuver, perfect for tight spaces.
- Durability: Built with high-quality materials for long-lasting performance.
Best Overall
18V ONE+ HP COMPACT BRUSHLESS 1/2" DRILL/DRIVER #
- Equipped with a brushless motor for enhanced efficiency and longevity
- High torque of 750 in-lbs caters to demanding tasks
- Its price is slightly higher than that of non-brushless models
- Some users may find it feels bulky despite its compact nature
The Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Compact Brushless 1/2" Drill/Driver (Model: PSBDD01) is the ideal choice for both DIY and professionals seeking a powerful and efficient cordless drill. Featuring a high-performance brushless motor, this drill delivers up to 750 in-lbs of torque, enabling it to tackle demanding tasks with ease.
Its compact design ensures excellent portability, making it perfect for use in tight spaces and overhead applications. Weighing just 2.7 lbs, it is lightweight yet robust, enhancing the comfort for prolonged use. With a dual-speed setting, the drill can adapt to various materials and applications, providing more versatility.
Best Budget Ryobi Cordless Drill/Driver
For 2024, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 3/8" Drill/Driver (Model: PDD209) is our top pick for the best budget option. This drill is perfect for those who need a reliable tool for everyday tasks without spending a fortune.
Key Features:
- Brushed Motor: Offers a solid performance for light to moderate tasks.
- Torque: Delivers up to 300 in-lbs of torque, suitable for a variety of projects.
- Lightweight Design: Weighs only 3.2 lbs, making it easy to handle and maneuver.
- 24 Clutch Positions: Provides greater control for precision driving and drilling.
Best Budget
18V ONE+ 3/8" Drill/Driver #
- Offers a robust torque of 300 in-lbs, allowing for a variety of uses
- Its compact and lightweight form makes it versatile for different home improvement tasks
- Some users report that it operates with a noticeable noise level
- Ergonomics may not be as comfortable as other models in its class
The Ryobi 18V ONE+ 3/8" Drill/Driver (Model: PDD209) is an exceptional budget-friendly option for DIY enthusiasts and home improvement projects in 2024. With a robust brushed motor that delivers up to 300 in-lbs of torque, this drill is well-equipped to handle a variety of light to moderate tasks, such as hanging shelves, assembling furniture, and general drilling.
Weighing only 3.2 lbs, the PDD209 is lightweight and easy to handle, reducing user fatigue during extended use. Its 24 clutch positions allow for precise control over driving and drilling, making it versatile enough to adapt to different materials and applications.
Best Mid-Range Ryobi Cordless Drill / Driver
For 2024, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 1/2" Drill/Driver (Model: PCL206) is our top pick for the best mid-range option. This versatile drill/driver strikes an excellent balance between power and affordability, making it ideal for a variety of projects.
Key Features:
- Brushed Motor: Ensures reliable performance for a range of drilling and fastening tasks.
- Torque: Provides up to 515 in-lbs of torque, making it capable of handling tougher jobs.
- Dual-Speed Setting: Offers flexibility with speeds ranging from 0-450 RPM to 0-1750 RPM, suitable for different materials.
- Lightweight Design: Weighs only 2.6 lbs, enhancing maneuverability and reducing user fatigue.
Best Mid-Range
- Strikes a good balance between power and weight, making it adaptable for a wide range of tasks
- Features dual-speed settings for added flexibility
- The plastic chuck may not be as durable as metal options
- Some users find it struggles with particularly tough materials
The Ryobi 18V ONE+ 1/2" Drill/Driver (Model: PCL206) stands out as the best mid-range cordless drill for 2024, offering an impressive blend of power, versatility, and value. With a robust brushed motor delivering up to 515 in-lbs of torque, this drill is well-suited for both light and heavy-duty tasks, from drilling into wood and metal to driving screws.
Weighing only 2.6 lbs, the PCL206 is designed for comfort and ease of use, allowing for extended operation without fatigue. Its dual-speed setting (0-450 RPM and 0-1750 RPM) enables users to adjust the speed according to the material and task, ensuring optimal performance.
Comparison
The following table provides a side-by-side comparison of three standout Ryobi cordless drills for 2024: the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Compact Brushless 1/2" Drill/Driver (Model: PSBDD01), the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 1/2" Drill/Driver (Model: PCL206), and the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 3/8" Drill/Driver (Model: PDD209). Each model has its unique features, making them suitable for different users and applications.
- Best Overall (PSBDD01): With a powerful brushless motor, high torque, and lightweight design, this model excels in performance and efficiency, making it suitable for various heavy-duty tasks.
- Best Mid-Range (PCL206): Offers a balanced combination of torque and versatility at an affordable price point. It's an excellent choice for both casual and frequent users.
- Best Budget (PDD209): While it has lower torque than the other two models, its lightweight design and decent performance make it a solid choice for everyday tasks without breaking the bank.
Choosing the right cordless drill can significantly impact the efficiency and quality of your projects. The Ryobi cordless drills highlighted in this comparison offer a range of options tailored to different needs and budgets.
Other Models
In addition to our top picks, there are several other Ryobi cordless drill models worth mentioning. While these models may not have made it to the top of our list, they still offer valuable features and performance for various tasks.
Here, we will briefly explore these models, highlighting their strengths and any considerations to keep in mind. Whether you're looking for something specific or just curious about the full range of options, this overview will help you understand how these drills compare to our chosen favorites.
Other Tested Models
- The lightweight design enhances maneuverability, making it a breeze to use for extended periods
- With a torque of 150 in-lbs, it is well-suited for light-duty applications, ideal for simple home projects
- May lack the power necessary for more demanding tasks
- The plastic chuck can degrade quicker compared to metal alternatives
The Ryobi 18V ONE+ 3/8" Drill (Model: PCL201) is a lightweight and efficient tool designed for light-duty tasks. Featuring a brushed motor and offering 150 in-lbs of torque, it’s ideal for everyday projects around the home. With its compact design weighing just 2.7 lbs, this drill is easy to handle and perfect for those who need a reliable tool for simple drilling and fastening applications.
While it may not have the power or advanced features of our top picks, the PCL201 provides excellent value for casual users and DIY enthusiasts looking for an affordable option.
Other Tested Models
18V ONE+ 2-SPEED 1/2" DRILL/DRIVER #
- Delivers strong torque of 500 in-lbs, making it effective for heavier-duty jobs
- The dual-speed setting allows for a broader range of applications, catering to various project needs
- Its heavier weight can be cumbersome during prolonged use
- Battery life may diminish faster when subjected to intense use
The Ryobi 18V ONE+ 2-Speed 1/2" Drill/Driver (Model: P215) is a versatile and powerful tool designed for both heavy-duty jobs and everyday projects. Equipped with a robust brushed motor, this drill delivers 500 in-lbs of torque, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
With its dual-speed settings (0-450 RPM and 0-1750 RPM) and lightweight design of 3.5 lbs, the P215 allows for greater control and precision, whether you're drilling through wood or driving screws. While it may not be as compact or high-powered as our top choices, this model offers great performance for users who require versatility and reliability in their toolkit.
Other Tested Models
18V ONE+ HP COMPACT BRUSHLESS 1/2" DRILL/DRIVER #
- Weighing in at just 2.1 lbs, this model is incredibly portable
- Delivers strong performance with a torque of 450 in-lbs, suitable for a variety of tasks
- A few users have reported issues with overheating when pushed hard
- Power levels may not meet expectations for heavier-duty applications
The Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Compact Brushless 1/2" Drill/Driver (Model: PSBDD02) is a lightweight and powerful tool designed for those who demand efficiency without sacrificing performance. Featuring a brushless motor, this drill delivers 450 in-lbs of torque, making it suitable for a variety of drilling and fastening tasks.
With dual-speed settings (0-450 RPM and 0-1700 RPM) and weighing just 2.1 lbs, the PSBDD02 is easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces. While it may not have the highest torque or features found in our top picks, its compact design and powerful performance make it a reliable choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals seeking versatility in their toolkit.
Other Tested Models
18V ONE+ HP Brushless 1/2" Drill/Driver #
- Features impressive torque at 750 in-lbs, perfect for tackling tough jobs
- The inclusion of a metal chuck enhances durability
- The higher price tag might deter budget-minded consumers
- Some users report that it can feel somewhat heavy for extended periods of use
The Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 1/2" Drill/Driver (Model: PBLDD01) is designed for users seeking a blend of power and durability. Equipped with a high-performance brushless motor, this drill delivers an impressive 750 in-lbs of torque, making it suitable for demanding tasks.
With dual-speed settings (0-500 RPM and 0-2100 RPM) and a robust metal chuck, the PBLDD01 is built to handle a variety of applications with ease. Weighing in at 3.0 lbs, it strikes a balance between power and portability. Although it sits outside the top tier of our recommended models, it offers exceptional torque and reliability, making it a solid choice for professionals and serious DIYers alike who require a tool that can tackle tougher jobs.
Conclusion
Thanks for joining us on this exploration of the best Ryobi cordless drills for 2024! Whether you’re tackling simple home repairs or diving into more ambitious projects, there’s a Ryobi drill out there that’s perfect for your needs.
From the powerhouse PSBDD01 that excels in heavy-duty tasks to the budget-friendly PDD209 that’s great for everyday use, Ryobi offers something for everyone. And don’t forget the other solid options we discussed, like the PCL201, P215, PSBDD02, and PBLDD01—each designed to make your DIY adventures a little easier and a lot more enjoyable.
Whichever model you choose, you can trust that Ryobi tools are built to help you get the job done right. Happy drilling, and may your projects be smooth and successful!
