Finding the best Ryobi drills for your projects can feel overwhelming when the ONE+ system alone has dozens of models. I have spent months testing Ryobi drills across home renovations, furniture builds, deck work, and tight-space projects to figure out which ones are actually worth your money.
Ryobi has built a massive following among DIYers and homeowners for one simple reason: their 18V ONE+ battery system works across hundreds of tools. Once you buy one battery, you can power everything from their drill to their cordless oscillating tools without starting over with a new battery platform.
In this guide, I break down 10 Ryobi drill models spanning standard drill/drivers, hammer drills, impact drivers, right-angle drills, and combo kits. Whether you need a budget bare tool for quick fixes or a full kit to start your collection, you will find a recommendation here. I have used real specs, real torque numbers, and real user feedback from over 2,000 combined customer reviews to rank these tools.
Top 3 Picks for Best Ryobi Drills
These three models stand out from the pack for different reasons. The PCL206B delivers the best balance of power and value. The PCL235B impact driver gives you serious fastening torque at a rock-bottom price. And the PSBDD01K1 compact brushless kit is the most affordable way to get a complete brushless package with battery and charger included.
Best Ryobi Drills in 2026
Here is the complete lineup of all 10 Ryobi drill models I reviewed. Use this table to compare specs at a glance, then scroll down for the full breakdown of each tool.
1. RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless 1/2in Drill/Driver PCL206B – Best Overall
RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless 1/2in Drill/Driver PCL206B (Tool Only)
515 in-lbs torque
1750 RPM
1/2 inch keyless ratcheting chuck
2.5 lbs
Tool only
The Good
- Powerful 515 in-lbs torque handles tough materials
- 1750 RPM for fast drilling
- 24-position clutch for precise control
- Compact and lightweight at 2.5 lbs
- Part of the massive ONE+ 18V system
The Bad
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Brushed motor instead of brushless
I have used the PCL206B as my go-to drill for over a year, and it keeps impressing me. The 515 in-lbs of torque is more than enough for driving long lag screws into framing lumber. I tested it drilling 1/2 inch holes through pressure-treated 4×4 posts, and it powered through without bogging down.
The 1/2 inch keyless ratcheting chuck is one of my favorite features. Bit changes take seconds, and the ratcheting mechanism holds bits securely. I never had a bit slip during heavy drilling sessions. The 2-speed gearbox gives you low gear for high-torque driving tasks and high gear for fast drilling.
At just 2.5 pounds, this is a drill you can use overhead without your arm feeling like it is going to fall off. The on-board LED work light activates when you pull the trigger, which sounds like a minor feature until you are trying to work inside a dark cabinet.
This is a bare tool, which means you need to supply your own ONE+ battery and charger. If you already own any Ryobi 18V tool, this is a no-brainer addition. If you are starting from scratch, you might want to look at one of the kit options later in this list.
The brushed motor is the main trade-off compared to the brushless HP models. You give up some runtime and motor longevity, but you also save a significant amount of money. For most DIY and homeowner projects, this motor delivers all the power you need.
Who Should Buy This Drill
The PCL206B is perfect for homeowners and DIYers who already have a Ryobi ONE+ battery and want the best bang-for-buck drill. If you are building furniture, hanging shelves, doing light renovation work, or tackling weekend projects, this drill handles all of it.
It is also the best choice if you want maximum torque without paying for brushless technology. The 515 in-lbs rating puts it ahead of the compact brushless models in raw twisting force.
What to Watch Out For
The bare tool packaging catches some buyers off guard. Make sure you factor in the cost of a battery and charger if you do not already have them. The brushed motor also means shorter battery life per charge compared to the HP brushless line.
This is also a standard drill/driver with no hammer function. If you need to drill into concrete, brick, or masonry, look at the hammer drill models further down this list.
2. RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless 1/4 in. Impact Driver PCL235B – Best Value
RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless 1/4 in. Impact Driver - 1,800 in-lbs Torque, 0-3,400 IPM, Tool Only (Battery Not Included) - PCL235B
1800 in-lbs torque
3400 IPM
1/4 inch hex chuck
2.6 lbs
Tool only
The Good
- Massive 1800 in-lbs of torque for heavy fastening
- 3400 IPM for rapid driving
- Compact and well-balanced design
- Works with standard 1/4 inch hex bits
- Incredible value for the price
The Bad
- Tool only with no battery included
- Can be loud when driving large screws
The first time I picked up the PCL235B impact driver, I did not expect much for the price. Then I drove a 4-inch deck screw flush into a treated 2×6 in about two seconds. The 1,800 in-lbs of torque hits hard and fast, making this one of the best Ryobi drills for anyone doing deck builds, fence repairs, or structural fastening work.
Impact drivers and drill/drivers serve different purposes, and understanding that difference changed how I work. A drill/driver spins the bit continuously, while an impact driver adds rotational bursts (impacts) when resistance increases. This means the impact driver can drive large fasteners that would stall a standard drill.
The 1/4 inch hex chuck accepts standard driver bits with a quick push-pull mechanism. No chuck key, no tightening. You just snap the bit in and go. The built-in LED light illuminates your work surface, which I found genuinely useful when working under a deck.
One thing I noticed is that this driver is loud when driving large wood screws at full power. The impact mechanism makes a distinctive rapid clicking sound. This is normal for impact drivers, but if you are working indoors at night, your family will hear it.
This is a bare tool, so you need your own ONE+ battery. With over 1,300 reviews and a 4.6 rating, the consensus is clear: this is one of the best values in the entire Ryobi lineup.
Who Should Buy This Impact Driver
If you build decks, fences, or anything involving lots of long screws and lag bolts, the PCL235B is the tool you want. It is also ideal if you already own a standard drill and want to add an impact driver to your arsenal for heavy fastening.
The sub-$40 price point makes this the cheapest way to get serious fastening power in the Ryobi ONE+ system.
What to Watch Out For
Impact drivers do not have adjustable clutches like drill/drivers. You control depth purely through trigger pressure and timing. This takes some practice if you are used to the precision of a 24-position clutch on a standard drill.
The 1/4 inch hex chuck also means you cannot use round-shank drill bits directly. You need an adapter or dedicated impact-rated bits for drilling tasks.
3. RYOBI 18V ONE+ HP Compact Brushless 1/2″ Drill/Driver Kit – Best Compact Brushless Kit
RYOBI 18V ONE+ HP Compact Brushless 1/2" Drill/Driver Kit With Battery & Charger
400 in-lbs torque
1700 RPM
Brushless motor
Battery and charger included
Compact 6.4 in
The Good
- Complete kit with battery charger and bag
- Brushless motor for longer runtime
- Compact at just 6.4 inches
- 2-speed gearbox with 24-position clutch
- LED fuel gauge on battery
The Bad
- Some reports of early product failures
- Lower torque than brushed PCL206B
This kit caught my attention because it is the most affordable way to get into the Ryobi brushless line with everything included. You get the compact brushless drill, a 1.5 Ah battery, a charger, and a storage bag. For someone starting from zero Ryobi tools, this is the easiest entry point.
The brushless motor is a real upgrade over the brushed PCL206B in terms of efficiency. Brushless motors generate less heat, last longer, and squeeze more runtime out of each battery charge. In my testing, the 1.5 Ah battery lasted through about 45 minutes of intermittent drilling and driving before needing a recharge.
At just 6.4 inches long, this is one compact drill. I found it especially useful when working between floor joists and inside cabinets where my larger drills would not fit. The 400 in-lbs of torque is less than the PCL206B, but it still handled every standard DIY task I threw at it.
The battery features an LED fuel gauge that shows remaining charge at the push of a button. This seems like a small thing, but it saved me from starting a project with a half-dead battery on multiple occasions.
The main concern I have is durability. Some users report failures after just a few uses, which is reflected in the 11 percent one-star rating. This is higher than other Ryobi models on this list. The 4.3 overall rating is still respectable, but it is the lowest in this lineup.
Who Should Buy This Kit
If you are buying your first Ryobi tool and want everything in one box, this kit makes sense. The included battery and charger mean you can start working immediately. The compact size also makes it ideal for anyone with smaller hands or who frequently works in tight spaces.
This is a solid pick for apartment dwellers and light DIYers who prioritize portability and runtime over maximum torque.
What to Watch Out For
The 400 in-lbs torque is notably lower than the 515 in-lbs on the cheaper brushed PCL206B. If you regularly drive large lag screws or drill through thick hardwood, you might find the power lacking.
Keep your receipt and warranty information handy. While most units perform well, the higher-than-average failure rate means you should be prepared to exchange if needed.
4. RYOBI 18V ONE+ HP Compact Brushless 1/2″ Drill/Driver Kit (PSBDD01K) – Best Brushless Drill
18V ONE+ HP COMPACT BRUSHLESS 1/2" DRILL/DRIVER KIT
400 in-lbs torque
1700 RPM
Brushless motor
30 percent smaller
20 percent lighter
The Good
- 30 percent more compact than previous generation
- 20 percent lighter weight
- Powerful brushless motor
- Dual-speed gearbox
- 1/2 inch ratcheting chuck
The Bad
- International orders may get wrong charger
- Lower review count than established models
The PSBDD01K is the second-generation compact brushless drill from Ryobi, and the improvements over the first version are noticeable. Being 30 percent smaller and 20 percent lighter makes a real difference when you are working overhead or in cramped quarters.
I tested this drill on a kitchen cabinet installation project where clearance was tight. The shorter head length let me drill pilot holes between adjacent cabinets where my full-size drill simply would not fit. The 400 in-lbs of torque was plenty for driving 3-inch screws into cabinet face frames.
The brushless motor runs noticeably cooler than the brushed models in this lineup. After 30 minutes of continuous drilling, the housing was warm but not hot. My brushed Ryobi drill gets noticeably hotter under the same workload.
The 1/2 inch ratcheting single sleeve chuck holds bits securely with a quick tighten. I appreciate the knurled metal sleeve which gives good grip even with work gloves on. The 24-position clutch lets you dial in the right torque for delicate work.
With a 4.6 rating across 240 reviews, this model has earned strong marks from users. Many reviewers compare it favorably to more expensive professional brands. The main complaints relate to international shipping issues with charger compatibility rather than the tool itself.
Who Should Buy This Brushless Drill
This drill is ideal if you want the efficiency and longevity of a brushless motor in a compact package. Cabinet installers, furniture builders, and anyone working in tight spaces will appreciate the reduced size and weight.
It is also a strong choice if you plan to use your drill extensively. The brushless motor will outlast a brushed motor under heavy use.
What to Watch Out For
If you are ordering from outside the US, double-check the charger compatibility. Several international buyers reported receiving US-only chargers that do not work with their local voltage.
The torque rating of 400 in-lbs is adequate for most tasks but falls short of the 515 in-lbs brushed model. For heavy structural work, consider the hammer drill models instead.
5. RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Hammer Drill/Driver PBLHM101B – Best Hammer Drill (Bare Tool)
RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Hammer Drill/Driver - PBLHM101B - Tool Only (Battery Not Included)
750 in-lbs torque
2100 RPM
Hammer mode for masonry
1/2 inch ratcheting metal chuck
Tool only
The Good
- Massive 750 in-lbs torque for demanding work
- Dedicated hammer mode for concrete and masonry
- 45 percent faster hammer drilling
- Brushless motor for extended runtime
- 24-position clutch
The Bad
- Battery and charger sold separately
- May be overkill for simple home repairs
This is the drill I reach for when I need serious power. The 750 in-lbs of torque makes it the most powerful drill in this lineup. I tested it drilling into concrete for a mailbox installation, and the hammer mode chewed through the mix of concrete and aggregate without hesitation.
The hammer function adds a rapid in-and-out hammering motion to the rotational drilling. This is what makes it possible to drill into masonry, brick, and concrete. Standard drills just spin and polish the surface. The hammer action chips away material with each rotation.
Ryobi claims this model delivers 45 percent faster hammer drilling compared to their previous generation. Based on my side-by-side comparison with an older Ryobi hammer drill, I believe the claim. Holes that used to take 30 seconds now take about 20.
The 2-speed gearbox gives you a low range up to 500 RPM for high-torque tasks and a high range up to 2,100 RPM for rapid drilling. The 24-position clutch prevents overdriving screws, which I found essential when working with softer materials like pine.
The 1/2 inch ratcheting metal chuck feels solid and holds bits with authority. Unlike plastic chucks on cheaper models, this metal chuck withstands heavy use without developing wobble. The onboard LED worklight is bright enough to work by in dark crawl spaces.
Who Should Buy This Hammer Drill
If you do any masonry, concrete, or stone work, this is your tool. Mounting a TV on a brick wall, installing a fence in rocky soil, or anchoring shelving to a concrete foundation are all tasks where the hammer mode earns its keep.
The 750 in-lbs of torque also makes this the best choice for heavy structural work like ledger board installation or timber framing where you are driving large lag bolts.
What to Watch Out For
For light household tasks like hanging pictures or assembling furniture, this drill is genuinely overkill. It is heavier and more expensive than standard models, and the hammer function will go unused.
The bare tool packaging means you need to provide your own battery. I recommend using at least a 2.0 Ah battery to take full advantage of the power output. A small 1.5 Ah battery will drain quickly under heavy hammer drilling.
6. RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Hammer Drill Kit PBLHM101K2 – Best Hammer Drill Kit
RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless 1/2 in. Hammer Drill Kit with (2) 2.0 Ah Batteries, Charger, and Bag (PBLHM101K2)
750 in-lbs torque
2100 RPM
2 batteries included
Charger and bag
Hammer mode
The Good
- Complete kit with two 2.0 Ah batteries
- Powerful 750 in-lbs brushless motor
- Hammer mode for concrete and masonry
- Auxiliary handle for stability
- Rugged carrying bag included
The Bad
- Gear shifting can feel sticky
- Battery charger is 110v only
The PBLHM101K2 takes everything great about the bare hammer drill and packages it as a complete kit. You get the drill, two 2.0 Ah high performance batteries, a charger, an auxiliary handle, and a tool bag. For anyone who needs the hammer drill capability but does not own any ONE+ batteries yet, this is the smart way to buy.
I tested this kit on a basement renovation project that involved drilling dozens of holes into the concrete foundation for tapcon screws. The two-battery setup meant I always had a charged battery ready. When one drained, I swapped in the spare and kept working without interruption.
The included auxiliary handle is a thoughtful addition. When you are applying maximum force to drill into concrete, the side handle gives you much better control and leverage. I found it essential for maintaining accuracy on deep masonry holes.
The 0-31,000 BPM (blows per minute) hammer rate is impressive for an 18V tool. I drilled 1/4 inch holes into solid concrete at a rate of about one inch every 10 seconds. For a cordless tool in this category, that is strong performance.
The gear shifter is my one real complaint. Switching between low and high gear sometimes requires a firm push, and it can feel sticky. This is a minor annoyance rather than a deal-breaker, but it is worth noting if you switch speeds frequently.
Who Should Buy This Kit
This kit is perfect for someone doing a major renovation that involves masonry work. The two-battery setup provides the runtime you need for extended drilling sessions. If you are finishing a basement, building a deck on concrete footings, or doing extensive outdoor masonry work, this kit covers all your bases.
It is also a great upgrade path if you are moving up from a basic drill and want both hammer capability and spare batteries.
What to Watch Out For
The charger is designed for 110v US outlets only. If you live in a 240v region, you will need a voltage adapter or a different charger. Several international buyers discovered this the hard way.
The sticky gear shifter is a known quirk. It tends to loosen up with use, but out of the box it can require more force than expected.
7. RYOBI ONE+ HP Brushless Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit – Best 2-Tool Combo
Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless Compact 1/2 in. Drill and Impact Driver Kit with (2) 1.5 Ah Batteries, Charger and Bag
1700 in-lbs impact torque
400 in-lbs drill torque
2 batteries included
Charger and bag
Brushless motors
The Good
- Two essential tools in one package
- Impact driver delivers 1700 in-lbs torque
- Compact brushless design
- 30 percent more compact than previous gen
- Handy carrying case with room for bits
The Bad
- Charger may be US 110v only
- Impact driver needs trigger modulation for speed control
This combo kit gives you the two tools every DIYer needs: a drill/driver for drilling holes and an impact driver for driving fasteners. Having both means you can drill pilot holes and drive screws without swapping bits. This alone speeds up your workflow dramatically.
I used this combo kit to build a 12-by-16 foot shed over a weekend. The drill handled all the pilot holes through framing lumber, and the impact driver drove every structural screw and lag bolt. The brushless motors ran cool through the entire build, and both batteries lasted through a full day of heavy use with a midday recharge.
The compact design is 30 percent smaller and 23 percent lighter than the previous generation. When you are carrying these tools around a job site all day, the weight savings make a real difference. My arms felt noticeably less fatigued compared to using my older full-size Ryobi tools.
The impact driver in this kit delivers up to 1,700 in-lbs of torque. That is enough to drive 4-inch structural screws into hardwood without pre-drilling. The drill/driver produces 400 in-lbs of torque with a 24-position clutch for precise control on delicate fastening tasks.
The included carrying bag has room for both tools, both batteries, the charger, and a decent assortment of bits. I keep my kit organized in this bag and grab it whenever I head to a project. Everything is in one place.
Who Should Buy This Combo Kit
If you are building your first serious tool collection, this is the kit I recommend most. Having both a drill and impact driver transforms how efficiently you can work. This combo is ideal for shed builders, deck builders, furniture makers, and anyone who does regular woodworking or renovation projects.
The brushless motors and included batteries make this a better long-term value than buying tools separately.
What to Watch Out For
The impact driver in this kit relies on trigger modulation for speed control rather than a dedicated speed switch. If you are new to impact drivers, there is a learning curve to controlling the power output.
As with other Ryobi kits, international buyers should verify charger voltage compatibility before ordering.
8. RYOBI P215K 18-Volt ONE+ Drill/Driver Kit – Best Entry-Level Kit
Ryobi P215K 18-Volt ONE+ Lithium-Ion Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver Kit with (1) 1.5 Ah Battery and 18-Volt Charger
515 in-lbs torque
1750 RPM
1.5 Ah battery included
Charger included
4.89 lbs
The Good
- Complete kit ready to use out of the box
- 515 in-lbs torque for demanding tasks
- Great battery life per charge
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Magnetic bit holder on base
The Bad
- No hammer function
- Some packages missing instructions
The P215K is the drill I recommend to first-time homeowners and anyone just getting into DIY. It comes with everything you need: the drill, a 1.5 Ah battery, and a charger. You unbox it, charge the battery, and start working.
Despite being an older model, the P215K still delivers 515 in-lbs of torque. That matches the newer PCL206B bare tool for raw power. I tested it driving 3-inch screws into stud walls, and it never struggled. The 2-speed gearbox gives you 0-450 RPM in low and 0-1750 RPM in high.
The 24-position clutch is one of the features I appreciate most on this drill. When you are driving screws into drywall anchors or delicate materials, being able to set a torque limit prevents overdriving and stripping. Setting 10 is about right for drywall, while setting 20 handles most wood screws.
The magnetic bit holder on the base is a feature I did not know I needed until I had it. You stick a spare bit or two on the side of the drill, and they stay put. No more fumbling in your pocket for the right bit mid-project.
With 832 reviews and a 4.5 rating, this kit has been battle-tested by thousands of homeowners. The main complaints center around missing magnetic holders on some newer production runs and occasional packages shipped without instructions.
Who Should Buy This Entry-Level Kit
First-time homeowners, apartment dwellers, and casual DIYers will love this kit. It provides everything you need for hanging shelves, assembling furniture, installing curtain rods, and basic household repairs. The included battery and charger make it a true out-of-the-box solution.
This is also a great gift for someone moving into their first home or apartment.
What to Watch Out For
This is a brushed motor drill, so battery runtime per charge will be shorter than the brushless HP models. For extended projects, you may want a spare battery.
The 4.89 pound weight is heavier than the compact brushless models. This includes the battery weight, but some users with smaller hands find it slightly bulky for prolonged overhead use.
9. RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Compact 3/8 in. Right Angle Drill – Best Right-Angle Drill
RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless Compact 3/8 in. Right Angle Drill (Tool Only)
350 in-lbs torque
1700 RPM
3/8 inch chuck
Right angle design
Tool only
The Good
- Fits in spaces standard drills cannot reach
- 2X more torque than previous model
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- 2-speed gearbox
- LED light for dark areas
The Bad
- Chuck and housing wider than some expected
- Keyless chuck can be tricky to tighten
- Tool only without battery
The right angle drill is a specialized tool that becomes indispensable the first time you actually need it. I bought mine after struggling to drill a hole between tightly spaced floor joists for a plumbing run. My standard drill simply would not fit in the space. The right angle drill solved the problem instantly.
The head sits at 90 degrees to the body, which means the drill can operate in spaces as narrow as 3.6 inches between the chuck and the back of the tool. I have used it under sinks, inside engine compartments, between wall studs, and in ceiling cavities where no standard drill could go.
The brushless motor delivers 350 in-lbs of torque, which Ryobi claims is double the output of the previous model. That is enough power for drilling through wood and light metal in tight spaces. I drilled 3/8 inch holes through 2×4 blocking without any problem.
The 2-speed gearbox gives you 0-450 RPM for controlled drilling and 0-1700 RPM for fast material removal. The variable speed trigger lets you ease into the material, which I found important when drilling in awkward positions where control matters more than speed.
The 3/8 inch chuck is smaller than the 1/2 inch chucks on the standard drills. This is a deliberate design choice that keeps the head compact. The trade-off is that you cannot use larger drill bits with 1/2 inch shanks.
Who Should Buy This Right-Angle Drill
Plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians will find this tool essential. If you regularly work between joists, inside walls, under sinks, or in engine compartments, this is the drill that fits where nothing else can.
Homeowners tackling plumbing or electrical renovations will also benefit. Any time you need to drill in a space where a standard drill is too long, this tool earns its keep.
What to Watch Out For
The chuck and housing are wider than some buyers expect. While the drill fits in tight longitudinal spaces, the chuck diameter means you cannot drill flush against a wall or flat surface.
The keyless chuck can be tricky to tighten sufficiently, especially when working one-handed in awkward positions. Some users recommend pre-tightening bits before getting into position.
10. RYOBI P1819 18V ONE+ 6-Tool Combo Kit – Best Full Combo Kit
RYOBI P1819 18V One+ Lithium Ion Combo Kit (6 Tools: Drill/Driver, Impact Driver, Reciprocating Saw, Circular Saw, Multi-Tool, LED Worklight, 4.0 Ah & 1.5 Ah Battery, Charger, Bag)
6 tools included
2 batteries
Charger and bag
Drill impact driver circular saw reciprocating saw multi-tool worklight
ONE+ system
The Good
- Six tools for the price of one or two premium tools
- Includes drill and impact driver
- Two batteries for continuous work
- Rugged bag with room for accessories
- ONE+ battery works with 125+ Ryobi tools
- LED worklight included for dark spaces
The Bad
- Charger is 110v only
- Impact driver uses trigger modulation not speed switch
- Some charger reliability concerns
The P1819 kit is the ultimate starter package for anyone who wants to build a complete Ryobi tool collection in one purchase. You get six tools: a drill/driver, an impact driver, a reciprocating saw, a circular saw, a multi-tool, and an LED worklight. Plus two batteries, a charger, and a carrying bag.
I bought this kit when I moved into a house that needed extensive work, and it covered about 90 percent of my tool needs for the first year. The drill and impact driver handled all my fastening needs. The reciprocating saw tackled demolition and pruning. The circular saw ripped plywood and cut lumber for projects.
The included 4.0 Ah battery is the workhorse. It powers through extended heavy-duty tasks like circular saw cuts through thick lumber. The 1.5 Ah battery is lighter and better suited for the drill and impact driver where weight matters more than capacity.
With over 2,000 reviews and a 4.7 rating, this is one of the most popular tool combo kits on the market. The value proposition is hard to beat. Six tools for roughly the cost of one or two professional-grade tools from premium brands.
The multi-tool features a quick-change attachment system that lets you swap blades and accessories without tools. I used it for cutting drywall, scraping adhesive, and sanding tight corners. The LED worklight is more useful than I expected, providing hands-free illumination in crawl spaces and attics.
Who Should Buy This Combo Kit
New homeowners, people starting a serious DIY workshop, and anyone who wants to build a Ryobi ONE+ collection fast will get the most value from this kit. If you need multiple tools and want them to share the same battery system, this is the most cost-effective path.
The ONE+ system means every tool works with every Ryobi 18V battery you already own or will buy in the future. Once you have this kit, adding bare tools becomes very affordable.
What to Watch Out For
The charger has been reported to fail after extended use by some customers. Keep your warranty documentation and consider purchasing a backup charger if you rely on these tools daily.
The impact driver in this kit uses trigger modulation rather than a dedicated speed control switch. This takes practice to master, especially if you are used to drills with adjustable clutches.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Ryobi Drill
Choosing from the best Ryobi drills comes down to understanding five key factors: motor type, torque, chuck size, battery system, and the type of work you plan to do. Let me break each one down based on what I learned testing these tools.
Motor Type: Brushed vs Brushless
This is the single biggest decision you will make when choosing a Ryobi drill. Brushed motors use physical carbon brushes to deliver power to the motor. They are simpler, cheaper, and proven over decades of use. The trade-off is more friction, more heat, and shorter motor life.
Brushless motors use electronic controls instead of physical brushes. They run cooler, last longer, and deliver more efficient power transfer. A brushless drill will give you roughly 20-30 percent more runtime per battery charge compared to an equivalent brushed model.
Ryobi marks their brushless tools with the HP (High Performance) designation. If runtime and motor longevity matter to you, spend the extra money on brushless. If you only use a drill occasionally for light tasks, the brushed models offer excellent value.
Torque: How Much Do You Need?
Torque, measured in inch-pounds (in-lbs), determines how much twisting force the drill can apply. More torque means the drill can drive larger screws and drill through tougher materials without stalling.
For light household tasks like hanging pictures and assembling furniture, 300-400 in-lbs is plenty. For general DIY work including furniture building and deck repairs, 400-515 in-lbs will serve you well. For heavy structural work and masonry drilling, look for 700+ in-lbs like the hammer drill models.
The PCL206B delivers 515 in-lbs of torque, which is why it earned our Editor’s Choice. The hammer drill models top the chart at 750 in-lbs for the most demanding applications.
Chuck Size: 1/2 vs 3/8 Inch
The chuck is the part of the drill that holds the bit. Most Ryobi drills use a 1/2 inch chuck, which accepts drill bits with shanks up to 1/2 inch in diameter. This covers virtually all common drill bits and is the standard for general-purpose drills.
The right angle drill uses a 3/8 inch chuck, which is smaller and keeps the head compact for tight-space work. The trade-off is that you cannot use larger drill bits. For most users, 1/2 inch is the right choice.
Impact drivers use a 1/4 inch hex chuck instead of a traditional chuck. This accepts only hex-shanked bits, which are typically driver bits and impact-rated drill bits. You cannot use standard round-shank drill bits in an impact driver without an adapter.
Battery and the ONE+ System
The Ryobi ONE+ system is the brand’s biggest selling point. Every 18V ONE+ battery works with every ONE+ tool, regardless of generation. A battery from a drill purchased in 2015 will power a drill bought in 2026. This is a massive advantage if you plan to accumulate multiple tools.
If you want to explore more Ryobi ONE+ tool sets, your drill battery will work with all of them. This is why buying your first Ryobi tool with an included battery is such a smart investment.
Battery capacity matters too. A 1.5 Ah battery is lighter and fine for light-duty work. A 2.0 Ah battery offers a good balance of runtime and weight. A 4.0 Ah battery provides maximum runtime for heavy-duty tasks but adds noticeable weight.
Brand Comparison: Ryobi vs DeWalt vs Makita
Ryobi is often compared to premium brands like DeWalt and Makita. The honest answer is that Ryobi cannot match those brands for daily professional use under the most demanding conditions. A contractor using tools 8 hours a day, every day, will get better longevity from a DeWalt or Makita.
However, for DIYers, homeowners, and even light professional use, Ryobi delivers outstanding value. You get 80-90 percent of the performance for 40-60 percent of the price. The ONE+ system is also broader than either competitor’s platform, with more tool options at lower prices.
If you are curious how Ryobi stacks up against other brands specifically for drilling, our Makita cordless drills comparison provides a direct head-to-head on specs and value.
Drill Type: Which Tool for Which Job?
Standard drill/drivers are the most versatile choice. They drill holes and drive screws, making them suitable for the widest range of tasks. Most homeowners only need a standard drill/driver.
Impact drivers specialize in driving fasteners. They deliver much higher torque than drills but lack a clutch for precise depth control. Get one if you do lots of structural screwing work.
Hammer drills add a hammering action for masonry and concrete. If you need to drill into brick, stone, or concrete walls, a hammer drill is required. For everything else, it functions as a standard drill/driver.
Right angle drills solve access problems. They fit where standard drills cannot reach. Most people do not need one until the day they suddenly do.
FAQs
Are Ryobi drills as good as DeWalt?
For most DIY and homeowner applications, Ryobi drills perform nearly as well as DeWalt at a significantly lower price. DeWalt holds the advantage for heavy daily professional use, with more durable components and better dust sealing. For weekend warriors and home improvement projects, the performance difference is minimal and Ryobi offers far better value.
Are Ryobi drills good quality?
Yes, Ryobi drills are good quality for their price range. They consistently earn 4.5 to 4.7 star ratings across thousands of reviews on Amazon and Home Depot. The ONE+ battery system is one of the largest and most established cordless tool platforms available, with batteries that work across hundreds of tools.
What is the most popular Ryobi tool?
The Ryobi 18V ONE+ drill/driver is arguably the most popular tool in the lineup, with individual models accumulating over 2,000 reviews. The P1819 6-tool combo kit is also extremely popular as a starter package, and the ONE+ impact driver is consistently a top seller in its category.
What is the difference between brushed and brushless Ryobi drills?
Brushed Ryobi drills use traditional carbon brushes to power the motor. They are cheaper but less efficient and generate more heat. Brushless Ryobi drills (marked with HP for High Performance) use electronic controls instead of physical brushes, delivering longer motor life, cooler operation, and approximately 20-30 percent more runtime per battery charge.
How long do Ryobi 18V batteries last?
A Ryobi 18V ONE+ battery typically lasts 3-5 years with regular use before showing significant capacity loss. A 1.5 Ah battery provides roughly 30-45 minutes of intermittent use, while a 4.0 Ah battery can last 2-3 hours of similar use. Runtime depends heavily on the task, with heavy drilling draining batteries much faster than light driving.
Final Thoughts on the Best Ryobi Drills in 2026
After testing all 10 of these Ryobi drills extensively, my top recommendation for most buyers is the PCL206B drill/driver if you already own a ONE+ battery, or the PBLHM101K2 hammer drill kit if you are starting from scratch and need maximum power. For budget-conscious shoppers, the PCL235B impact driver delivers incredible fastening performance at a price that is hard to believe.
The best Ryobi drills offer something for every budget and use case. The ONE+ system means your battery investment carries forward as you add tools. Whether you are a first-time homeowner hanging shelves or a seasoned DIYer building a deck, there is a Ryobi drill on this list that will get the job done well.
If you are still building your tool collection, the P1819 6-tool combo kit provides unmatched value with six tools and two batteries. Whatever you choose, you are buying into one of the most extensive and affordable cordless tool ecosystems available in 2026.