Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Cordless Drill Driver Review Powerful Brushless Motor Insights

Description

Powerful Brushless Motor and Speed Settings

Testing the Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Cordless Compact Brushless 12 inch DrillDriver PSBDD01 revealed its 2-speed brushless motor works impressively well. The motor offers 0-450 RPM for low speed and 0-1,700 RPM for high speed, which covers most drilling and driving tasks efficiently. I found the maximum torque of 400 inch-pounds powerful enough for wood and light metal projects around the house. The brushless design means less maintenance and longer motor life, which I definitely appreciate since I’m not the most diligent tool caretaker. Also, the 24-position clutch gave me excellent control, preventing stripped screws and overdriving, especially when assembling furniture or working on drywall anchors.

Compact Design and Lightweight Feel

This drill driver weighs just 2.46 pounds, which makes it quite comfortable to handle for extended periods. Its compact 12-inch length means I could easily maneuver it in tight spots like under sinks or inside cabinets. The black and green color scheme is classic Ryobi, and the plastic casing feels durable without being bulky. I noticed that even with my larger hands, the grip felt secure and ergonomic, which reduced fatigue during longer projects. However, some users with smaller hands might find the grip a little wide, so testing it in person is a good idea if possible.

Battery Compatibility and Bare-Tool Format

The PSBDD01 is a bare-tool, meaning it arrives without a battery or charger. As someone who already owns several Ryobi ONE+ batteries, this was a big plus since I saved money and switched batteries seamlessly between tools. The drill runs on 18V lithium-ion batteries, compatible with the entire ONE+ system, which is a huge benefit if you want to expand your cordless tool collection without investing in multiple chargers. Keep in mind, if you don’t have existing batteries, you’ll need to budget for them separately. The lack of included batteries might be a turnoff for first-time buyers, but it makes sense for those already invested in Ryobi’s ecosystem.

On-board LED Worklight for Visibility

One feature I found surprisingly useful was the on-board LED worklight. It illuminated dark corners and poorly lit areas, like when I was screwing in brackets inside a closet. The LED automatically turns on when the trigger is engaged, which is handy for precision work without needing to hold a flashlight. The brightness isn’t blinding but enough to see clearly, making it a practical addition for folks who work in basements or garages with limited lighting.

Benefits

• Brushless motor efficiency extends runtime and tool life.
• Two-speed settings provide versatility for drilling and driving.
• Lightweight and compact design enhances maneuverability.
• 24-position clutch offers superior torque control.
• Compatible with Ryobi ONE+ 18V batteries, providing flexibility.
• Integrated LED light improves visibility in low-light conditions.

Areas for Improvement

• The drill comes as a bare-tool only, so batteries and chargers must be purchased separately if you don’t already own Ryobi ONE+ tools.
• The maximum chuck size is 0.5 inches, which is standard but might limit use with larger drill bits.
• Plastic housing, while durable, doesn’t feel as rugged as metal-bodied competitors.
• The top speed of 1,700 RPM is decent but not the fastest in its category, which could impact some high-speed drilling tasks.
• Some users reported the clutch can occasionally slip under heavy torque, though I didn’t notice this in typical household use.

Competitive Options

Comparing this compact drill driver to other popular cordless drills like the DeWalt 20V MAX or Makita 18V LXT, it holds its own well on several fronts. The brushless motor and 24-position clutch are features often seen in higher-end models. However, the DeWalt offers a slightly higher maximum RPM and generally more robust metal components, making it better for heavy-duty jobs. Makita’s drill tends to come with a battery and charger, which appeals to first-time buyers. The price point of this Ryobi is usually more affordable, especially for those who already own Ryobi batteries, making it a great value for DIYers and homeowners who want a reliable, lightweight drill without spending extra on accessories.

Price Worthiness

Considering the features packed into this compact drill driver, the price to quality ratio is quite favorable, especially if you already have Ryobi ONE+ batteries. The bare-tool format keeps the initial cost down, and the brushless motor technology offers durability and efficiency that justify the investment. For buyers needing an affordable yet capable cordless drill for everyday use, this model represents smart spending without sacrificing essential power and control. However, newcomers to cordless tools should factor in the cost of batteries and chargers, which can add up.

Versatility and Practical Use Cases

I found this drill driver perfectly suited for a variety of tasks. Whether it was assembling IKEA furniture, drilling pilot holes in wood, or installing curtain rods, the tool performed reliably. The two-speed gearbox allowed me to switch from slow, controlled driving to faster drilling, which made transitions between tasks smooth. The lightweight feel and ergonomic grip meant that even my teenage niece, who isn’t used to power tools, could handle it comfortably with minimal supervision. It’s a great option for light to medium-duty household projects and occasional professional use.

Summary of Good Aspects and Drawbacks

Good Aspects

• Efficient brushless motor design with long life.
• Two-speed control for versatility.
• Lightweight and compact for easy handling.
• Compatible with a broad range of Ryobi ONE+ batteries.
• Helpful LED worklight enhances visibility.
• Excellent torque control with the 24-position clutch.

Drawbacks

• Sold as bare-tool only, requiring separate battery purchase.
• Chuck size limited to 0.5 inches.
• Plastic construction feels less rugged than some competitors.
• Slightly lower maximum speed compared to premium rivals.
• Occasional clutch slippage under heavy torque reported by some users.

This drill driver impressed me with its balance of power, portability, and practical features. It’s a solid choice for anyone invested in the Ryobi ecosystem or seeking a reliable, easy-to-handle cordless drill for everyday projects.

Additional information