Archived from the Tools In Action forum (Power Tools). This thread is read-only.
I’m hunting for a decent but not too expensive drill driver or a combi driver. As it is to be used occasionally, I saw today in B&Q a Mac Alister with a lithium battery for a decent price but with only one battery. I have a preference for two batteries and talking about 2 batteries, Ryobi comes with a good price with 2 lithium batteries for around £100. Dewalt and makita for around £100 just bring nicad batteries. I probably need to wait for one of those events – 20% off in B&Q to buy a good cordless drill for a good price.
What do you guys think about Ryobi? Does any of you use it?
If it were me, I’d rather have a Ni-Cad Dewalt than a Lithium Ryobi. If you can find a good deal on a good Lithium rig (Milwaukee, Dewalt, Makita, Bosch, etc) go for it. Ryobi is an entry level/homeowner brand and while it may be sufficient for your needs, the Ni-Cad Dewalt is still superior in every way. You can always upgrade to the Dewalt Nono base Lithium battery later on if you aren’t satisfied with the Ni-Cad.
I would always say buy the very best you can afford and remember where other batteries are nackerd if left under the stairs a few months, lithium ion will hold charge even when unused for months.
Unless the Dewalt drill is an xrp 3 speed then it might be worth the hit going to nicad. I have used Ryobi lions for over 6 years., and my oldest battery finaly was showing some age. I moved up to the m18 line because I have been doing larger projects. In this day and age not going with a lion system seems like a bad idea to me atleast
nicad are crap lads.
Lithium ion hold charge for months but nicad batteries if left go flat and die for good after a few weeks under the stairs or in the shed.
I had nicad tools and after an accident and hospital stay came back to work to find every nicad battery was as flat as a witches tit.
I guess you guys might be right, I just have a hard time recommending Ryobi 😛
Hey there. I have the 12v Bosch P31-2al drill kit with Sortimo’s tool box. Lithium Ion with 1.5ah batteries and thirty minute charger. Awesome kit. I paid $94.99 (USA) on Amazon as a special. They have the tool with soft side case for $99 (USA) at our local Lowes. Milwaukee M12 is good too with plenty of torque. Hope this helps!