One of the most anticipated tools this year has been from Ridgid. The MegaMax has had a lot of people curious, as they should be. If you look at multi-tools in general, they aren’t overly successful. We have definitely seen improvements in the last year, with better connections and exceptional battery technology that allows these tools to operate at their best. MegaMax was designed to replace several job site tools, but can it get it done? Well, lets put the MegaMax to the test in the Ridgid MegaMax Review and find out.
Ridgid MegaMax Review Overview
One of Ridgid’s other exciting launches this year was new batteries. The Hyper Octane batteries are only the beginning, as Ridgid intends to launch a new line of Octane tools to pair up with these stronger batteries. The MegaMax is the first launch to include this technology and is an interesting choice for Ridgid to start with. Multi-Tools are risky, either being incredibly well received or they are a huge flop. I appreciated Ridgid’s gumption in this a lot, as they aren’t typically a tool company I see as risk takers. I am a huge fan of Ridgid and have had a chance to review a lot of their tools this year. Ridgid produces solid tools that don’t let the user down. The Cordless Belt Sander has been in constant rotation in my shop, and their Benchtop Planer was one I was eager to get my hands on too.
We have all of the available attachments for the MegaMax, but I am eager to hear if Ridgid intends on adding more to the lineup in the future.
Ridgid MegaMax Review Features
Ridgids MegaMax features a brushless motor and their new Octane Technology. The Octane technology adjusts certain features based on the attachment you are using. Ridgid included a bag with the base as well for easy storage and transport.
Designed for use with their 18V Hyper Octane batteries, giving better performance and runtime on their cordless tools. Ridgid also has a lifetime service agreement on all of their tools.
The smart power base uses technology to detect the attached head and automatically changes to ideal settings.
Megamax features a die-cast interface for ultra durability, as well as a release buttons on each attachment for easy removal. The head features 4 different head positions to allow for the best ergonomics based on the user’s preference and application.
The LED communication panel provides status updates to the user.
Ridgid included a lock-on button for increased comfort during extended use.
The trigger is a variable speed, as well as has a forward, reverse and lock switch like you see on most drills today. Below the trigger is also a light switch for easy activation of the LED lights on the attachments.
Ridgid’s Reciprocating Saw Head weighs in at 4.95 pounds and has a stroke length of 1 1/8-inch stroke length and offers a no-load speed of 3100 SPM’s.
The Reciprocating Saw Head features an On/Off orbital movement to increase cutting speed.
A sight line blower keeps debris to a minimum and the open shoe design increases visibility. There is an LED light that illuminates the workpiece just below the blade chuck as well.
The shoe has a tool-free adjustment to improve blade life and control.
The blades are changed with a simple twist locking chuck.
SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Head weighs in at 4.75 pounds and features 1400 RPM load speed, as well as up to 5,000 BPM.
The mode selector knob allows you to choose between hammer, drilling and chisel modes with a switch of the knob. The lock-on button on the MegaMax base is only compatible with the chisel mode of this tool and allows for more comfortable prolonged use.
The LED light allows for better visibility of the workpiece.
The auxiliary handle improves grip and control during use and can be mounted for right or left-hand use. The included adjustable depth gauge is a simple design that adjusts easily to control depth.
Ridgid uses a mechanical clutch to reduce uncomfortable torque reaction when used in difficult conditions and protects both the user and the tool motor.
Right Angle Drill weighs in at 5.9 pounds and uses a 1/2 inch keyed chuck, and operates with a no-load speed of up to 450 RPMs. The die-cast gearbox increases durability for tough job site conditions.
A 1/2-inch metal chuck provides intense bit holding power, something important during high-torque use.
The included on-board chuck key slips easily into the top pommel.
The included LED light improves worksite conditions.
The Right angle drill includes an option for right and left-hand mounting of the auxiliary handle.
All attachments are removed by depressing a simple release button on the top of the attachment.
Ridgid MegaMax Review Performance
When I first opened the boxes to the MegaMax, I was a bit worried. Full disclosure, the base alone felt pretty weighty, which concerned me as to how comfortable it was going to be to use. Now, the weight was also a testament to how well the tool is made. This is something no matter your level of tool experience is, that you can instantly tell the quality when you hold the MegaMax. The irony is that while I was concerned about weight, during actual use the weight actually ended up being a positive. The weight seemed to drastically reduce the vibrations over their traditionally designed counterparts. Facts are facts, I am probably not going to be as strong as the true intended user of this tool. Your average contractor likely wields these tools or similar ones for hours every day and is physically used to it. The MegaMax got a huge plus from me that I was able to comfortably use it despite the concern for weight.
Another note to its comfort and versatility is the multi-head positions. There is a lot to be said for being able to manipulate the tool to do just what you need it to. As well, using it at the right angle and position that gives you the most comfort. I appreciated the right and left-hand options for the auxiliary handles as well, as this improves grip and stability and doesn’t leave any users in the dust. I tested this tool using a 6Ah Hyper Octane battery and was thoroughly impressed with runtime and the power the battery gave this tool.
First, let’s talk about the Reciprocating Saw Attachment. First things first, I used Diablo blades to test this tool as they are the blades I rely on for most applications. To me, there are only a few brand names I really trust to do what they advertise, and Diablo is one of them. I tested two common materials contractors cut with a reciprocating saw- PVC and metal. Wood is also commonly cut as well, but I knew there wouldn’t be an issue there. PVC was a breeze, this was 1 inch PVC and a dozen or so cuts using a General blade from Diablo proved to be no match for the MegaMax. The real test for me was going to be the metal piping. This was 3/4 inch galvanized steel, and with a Metal Blade, it ate right through it without hesitating. I ended up using the orbital mode on this, and it certainly made a difference with its ease of cutting.
The SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill attachment was an exciting tool to be able to test. My previous model was old, old enough that SDS-Plus bits didn’t exist. I ran to Home Depot and bought this bit from Bosch, as I know their concrete bits to be among the best. I ran the 6 inch bit into concrete block, measuring 4X8X16. This attachment never skipped a beat and ran right through without ever bogging down. The depth adjustment stop was incredibly simple to use and provided enough resistance to alert the user that they should stop. I always appreciate simple and easy to use designs as sometimes overly complicated designs lead to new issues. I am incredibly excited to try a chisel bit with this Hammer Drill, as we have a few tiling projects in the future so some demolition will need to happen first.
The Right Angle Drill Attachment was actually a first for me and is a tool I am glad to have now. I tested this attachment using a 3/4-inch Bosch Daredevil Spade bit into a 2X4. Not only is this by far the best way to drill holes like this to me, it was much more comfortable to do so than using an Impact Driver to do the same. There was virtually no effort needed to power through it. For a contractor who needs to use this tool repetitively, it will be worth its weight in gold to fit into awkward spaces and not lose the power you need to get the job done.
Ridgid MegaMax Review Value
Ridgid is one of those brands that cross between the Homeowner and Professional market pretty seamlessly. These tools though, are really geared towards the pro who will use and abuse them. I am a fan of Ridgid overall, but this tool definitely stood out as a testament to Ridgid competing for more professionals. One thing that is certain, is that the quality is out of the park for the price point and features.
Determining value on a tool like this can be a bit complicated. I was in need of updating these tools in my collection, and I am into the Ridgid battery platform. If you need them, the price is well justified. My hope as well, is that Ridgid will launch more attachments for the power base in the future, and would further increase the value of the system. Multi-tools are generally seen as an investment, and to me, this model qualifies as one that is well worth it.
All of these tools are available at The Home Depot.
Ridgid MegaMax Power Base- Model #R86400B $99.00
Ridgid Reciprocating Saw- Model #R86401B $69.00
Ridgid SDS-PLUS Rotary Hammer Drill- Model #R86403B $119.00
Ridgid Right Angle Drill- Model #R86402B $99.00
You can also purchase the Ridgid Hyper Octane batteries at The Home Depot. A two pack of 9.0 Ah batteries are $199.00 or a two pack of the 6.0 Ah batteries for 159.00.
Ridgid MegaMax Review Final Thoughts
This is one of those tools where you go into it a bit hesitant. Will a multi-tool really replace these separate tools and be able to perform at the level you need them to? Well, the MegaMax from Ridgid definitely falls into that small percentage of multi-tools that just really works. It has a few neat features that bring about improved ergonomics such as the 4 head positions and dual mounting options for their auxiliary handles. There is a lot to like about the MegaMax. Coupling the Octane tool technology and the Hyper Octane battery platform, Ridgid surely will stake a claim with professionals needing consistent power and performance. If you use any of these tools regularly, The Ridgid MegaMax should definitely be at the top of your list of options to consider.
How does the size and weight (Base and head combined) compare to the equivalent Ridgid non-Megamax tool?