The Ryobi HP Compact Impact Driver Delivers Top-Notch Value for DIYers
A few years back, we got our hands on Ryobi’s first generation 18V HP compact brushless impact driver, and I must admit, it didn’t disappoint! Now, we’re taking a close-up look at their second-generation compact impact driver so you can decide if it’s time to upgrade!
Pros
- Compact profile
- Lightweight design
- One-handed bit insertion and ejection
- Excellent value
- Kit comes with two batteries
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a belt hook
- Only one speed
Ryobi HP Compact Brushless Impact Driver Performance
- No-Load Speed: 3000 RPM
- Impact Rate: 3900 IPM
- Max Torque: 1900 in-lbs
- Collet: 1/4 in. hex
- Motor Type: Brushless
Speed and Power
Looking at the specs, it’s pretty clear that Ryobi had more than simple DIY projects in mind for this compact impact driver. The brushless motor tops out at 3,000 RPMs with an impact rate of 3,900 IPM, and produces 1,900 in-lbs of torque. This represents a slight boost in performance over the previous model.
One thing to keep in mind, though, is that this model has just one speed. For control, you’ll need to feather the trigger rather than switching to a lower speed mode to work with.
In terms of real-world performance, this impact driver is more than capable of handling the majority of your screwdriving needs. During my testing, I upped the ante and drove a few 8-inch GRK RSS screws into our stacked OSB test block. On average, it fully drove the screws in 27 seconds, which is right in line with what we expect from a compact tool.
That test represented the upper limit of what I believe is reasonable for this tool, but I can’t recommend going beyond that. If you are going to drive larger fasteners regularly, or you want the additional control that comes from having multiple speeds to select, I’d suggest stepping up to the stronger Ryobi One+ HP Brushless Impact Driver (PBLID02).
Ryobi HP Compact Impact Driver Design Notes
- Model: Ryobi PSBID02
- Power Source: Ryobi 18V battery
- Weight: 1.8 lbs (bare tool), 2.8 lbs (with kitted 1.5Ah battery)
- Head Length: 5.3 in.
Size and Weight
When Ryobi called this impact driver compact, they weren’t kidding. The PSBID02 weighs in at 1.8 pounds as a bare tool, 2.8 pounds with the kitted 1.5 Ah battery, and measures 5.3 inches from tip to tail. This is nearly identical to the previous generation, so the fact that they managed to increase performance without increasing size is impressive.
Ryobi Compact Impact Driver Comparison
If you’re thinking about upgrading, here’s a quick look at the key specs.
| PSBID01 (Old) | PSBID02 (New) | |
|---|---|---|
| No-Load Speed | 2900 RPMs | 3000 RPMs |
| Impact Rate | 3800 IPM | 3900 IPM |
| Max Torque | 1700 in-lbs | 1900 in-lbs |
| Weight | 1.84 lbs | 1.8 lbs |
| Head Length | 5.3 in. | 5.3 in. |
Additional Features
- LED work light
- One-hand bit insertion and ejection
- Compatible with all Ryobi 18V One+ batteries
Ryobi HP Compact Impact Driver Price
The Ryobi PSBID02 retails for $99 as a bare tool and $139 as a kit. The kit includes two 1.5 Ah batteries, a charger, and a storage bag. Ryobi backs the tool with a 3-year warranty.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to compact tools, there are always going to be some tradeoffs when you consider performance against size. Ryobi gets a good amount of power and speed out of this tool while maintaining a compact, lightweight profile. If you’re on the hunt for a high-value impact driver capable of tackling the majority of fastener driving tasks, the Ryobi PSBID02 is an excellent choice!
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