Ryobi One+ HP Vs. Ryobi Brushed Drills

Introduction: Understanding the Ryobi Drill Lineup

When shopping for a Ryobi drill, you’ll quickly encounter two main categories: the newer One+ HP brushless models and the traditional brushed motor models. Both operate within Ryobi’s popular 18V One+ battery system, but they offer distinctly different performance levels, features, and price points.

This comparison examines the key differences between Ryobi’s brushless HP (High Performance) drills and their standard brushed motor counterparts to help you determine which is the better investment for your specific needs. We’ll analyze everything from power output and battery efficiency to durability and value proposition.

Brushed vs. Brushless: The Fundamental Technology Difference

How Brushed Motors Work

Ryobi’s standard drills use traditional brushed motors, which have been the mainstay of power tools for decades. These motors contain physical carbon brushes that make contact with a commutator to create an electromagnetic field that powers the motor. This mechanical contact is what gives brushed motors their name.

How Brushless Motors Work

The One+ HP drills feature brushless motor technology, which eliminates the physical brushes and commutator. Instead, they use electronic controllers to energize the motor coils in sequence. This design removes the friction-causing components and allows for more precise power management.

Why This Difference Matters

This fundamental design difference impacts nearly every aspect of the drill’s performance, from power delivery to battery life and tool longevity. The absence of brushes means less friction, heat, and maintenance issues in the HP models.

Detailed Comparison: One+ HP vs. Brushed Drills

Power and Performance

The One+ HP brushless drills consistently outperform their brushed counterparts in power delivery. For example, the brushless impact wrench models deliver approximately 450 ft-lbs of torque compared to around 300 ft-lbs in the brushed equivalents—a significant 50% increase. This power advantage extends across the drill lineup.

The brushless motors also deliver more consistent power throughout the battery’s charge cycle, whereas brushed models tend to experience more noticeable power drop as the battery depletes.

Battery Efficiency

One of the most compelling advantages of the HP brushless models is battery efficiency. Tests and user reports consistently show that brushless drills can complete 30-50% more work on a single battery charge compared to their brushed equivalents. This efficiency comes from:

1. Elimination of friction from brushes
2. More sophisticated power management
3. Less energy lost as heat

For frequent users, this efficiency can translate to significant time savings by reducing battery swaps and recharging cycles.

Size, Weight, and Ergonomics

The HP brushless models are notably more compact and lightweight. The RYOBI 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Cordless Compact 1/2 in. Drill/Driver exemplifies this with its reduced size and weight while delivering superior performance. This compact design makes the HP models particularly valuable for working in tight spaces or for extended periods where tool weight becomes a factor.

Durability and Maintenance

Brushless motors inherently offer better durability since they eliminate the brushes that naturally wear down over time. This translates to:

– Longer overall tool lifespan
– Reduced maintenance requirements
– Better performance retention over time

While brushed models can certainly provide years of service for occasional users, the brushes will eventually wear out and potentially need replacement. In contrast, the brushless models have fewer wear components.

Performance Comparison in Real-World Applications

DIY Home Projects

For typical home projects like furniture assembly, hanging shelves, or minor repairs, both drill types will perform adequately. However, the HP brushless models offer noticeably better performance when:

– Drilling into harder materials
– Working with larger fasteners
– Completing projects that require extended use

Construction and Heavy-Duty Applications

For more demanding applications, the performance gap widens significantly. The brushless HP models demonstrate superior capabilities when:

– Drilling through tough materials like pressure-treated lumber
– Using hole saws or large drill bits
– Driving lag bolts or other large fasteners
– Working continuously on larger projects

Price and Value Comparison

Initial Investment

Brushless HP models typically command a 30-50% price premium over their brushed counterparts. For example:

Long-Term Value

While the initial price difference is significant, the long-term value equation favors the HP brushless models for many users due to:

1. Extended tool lifespan
2. Better battery efficiency (fewer battery purchases over time)
3. Higher resale value
4. Capability to handle more demanding tasks (reducing the need for tool upgrades)

Who Should Choose Each Type?

Ryobi Brushed Drills Are Ideal For:

Pros:
– More affordable entry point
– Adequate for occasional home use
– Compatible with all One+ batteries
– Simpler technology that’s easier to repair

Cons:
– Less powerful
– Shorter battery life
– Bulkier and heavier
– Shorter overall lifespan

Best for: Occasional DIYers, budget-conscious buyers, those with infrequent and light-duty needs.

Ryobi One+ HP Brushless Drills Are Ideal For:

Pros:
– Significantly more powerful
– 30-50% longer runtime per charge
– More compact and lightweight
– Longer tool lifespan
– Better performance in demanding applications

Cons:
– Higher initial investment
– May offer more power than occasional users need
– More complex internal electronics

Best for: Frequent DIYers, homeowners with regular projects, professionals, and anyone valuing performance and efficiency over initial cost.

Verdict: Is Upgrading to HP Brushless Worth It?

Based on user feedback and performance comparisons, the consensus is clear: if you can afford the initial price premium, the One+ HP brushless drills offer superior value for most users. As one user put it, “just get the HP brushless from the get-go. My brushed driver and drill suck and they are never used unless absolutely necessary.”

However, the decision ultimately depends on your specific needs:

Choose Brushed If:

– You’re on a tight budget
– You only use drills occasionally for simple tasks
– You’re building a starter tool collection

Choose One+ HP Brushless If:

– You use your drill regularly
– You work on a variety of materials including hardwoods
– You value battery efficiency
– You appreciate a more compact, lightweight tool
– You want a tool that will last longer

For most homeowners who plan to use their drill for years to come, the performance advantages and longer lifespan of the HP brushless models justify the additional upfront cost. The efficiency gains, particularly in battery life, can also offset much of the price difference over the tool’s lifetime.

Remember that both drill types work with Ryobi’s extensive 18V One+ battery system, so your choice of drill won’t limit your ability to expand your tool collection within the Ryobi ecosystem.