Ryobi 18V Screwdriver Tackles Home Maintenance and DIY Projects
Not every project requires the absolute highest-performing power tools. In fact, having something that prioritizes a lightweight, compact design is sometimes more beneficial. If you’re someone who picks up a drill a few times per year to hang some pictures or assemble a piece of furniture, Ryobi’s new 18V 1/4-inch Hex Screwdriver might be right up your alley. I’m looking at how it stacks up against comparable Ryobi drills to help you decide if this is the right driving tool for your needs.
Editor’s Note: Check out our best cordless screwdriver article to see our top picks after hours of use and comparative testing.
Ryobi 18V Screwdriver Performance
- Model: Ryobi PCL212K1
- Maximum speed: 600 RPM
- Maximum torque: 135 in-lbs
- Brushed motor
- Variable speed trigger
- Powered by any Ryobi 18V battery
The PCL212 screwdriver delivers a maximum speed of 600 RPM and torque levels of 135 in-lbs at the top end. This puts it at the same performance level as Ryobi’s PCL201 drill/driver.
It features a brushed motor, which, while not as preferable as a brushless motor, helps prioritize value rather than high performance. Since this tool is ideal for driving screws for home and DIY projects, rather than professional jobsite applications, a brushed motor is nothing to turn up your nose at.
It also features a variable speed trigger so you can set your rotational speed to the task at hand.
Like all of Ryobi’s 18V One+ tools, the PCL212 screwdriver is powered by any Ryobi 18V battery. So, if you’re already on this platform and you’re looking for something to help you with home maintenance or DIY projects, you can avoid buying into another battery system.
Ryobi 18V Screwdriver Design
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 5.9 x 2.1 x 7.3 inches
- Weight: 2.5 pounds (with battery)
- 1/4-inch keyless quick-connect collet
- LED worklight
The Ryobi 18V screwdriver is lightweight, weighing only 2.5 pounds with the kitted 1.5Ah battery. It has a 1/4-inch quick-connect collet that is compatible with most 1/4-inch bits.
Additionally, it’s equipped with an onboard LED work light to help you see in low-light areas.
Ryobi Drill/Driver or Screwdriver – Which is Right For Me?
As mentioned above, the PCL212 screwdriver has the same performance as Ryobi’s PCL201 drill/driver. The main difference between these two tools is that the PCL212 (this tool) features a 1/4-inch hex drive while the PCL201 drill has a 3/8-inch chuck. While it might seem like a small difference, there are a few design implications that can tie into which tool suits you best.
The 1/4-inch hex chuck on the screwdriver makes for a more compact tool— in fact, the PCL212 screwdriver is almost an inch shorter in height and around 2 1/2 inches shorter in length than the PCL201 drill. If you’re looking for a tool that takes up less storage space and fits into tighter working areas, the screwdriver wins out.
However, it is worth noting that the PCL201 drill/driver’s 3/8-inch chuck prioritizes versatility, accepting a wide variety of drill bits and attachments. If that’s more important to you than a compact design, and you’re satisfied with the performance level of these tools, consider the drill/driver.
Ryobi 18V Screwdriver Price
This tool retails for $59.97 as a kit, including a 1.5Ah battery and charger. You can find it in-store or online at The Home Depot. Ryobi backs your purchase with a 3-year warranty.
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