Ryobi’s Handheld Tile Saw Gets Some Useful Upgrades And Redefines Cordless Convenience
Over the last few years, Ryobi has quickly accelerated into one of the top brands, not only for DIYers but value-minded Pros as well. Today, we’ve got our hands on the Ryobi 18V Handheld Tile Saw, which shows off some big upgrades from their previous corded model. The big question on our mind is how it stacks up in the world of professional saws.
Ryobi Handheld Tile Saw Performance
- No-load Speed: 10500 RPM
- Max Cut Depth: 1-5/8 in. (90°), 1-1/16 in. (45°)
- Max Bevel: 45°
- Blade Size: 5 in.
- Arbor: 7/8 in.
- Blade Type: Diamond
- Water Tank Capacity: 20.5 oz.
- Water Supply Hose: 12 ft.
This handheld tile saw features a 5-inch diamond wheel and a brushless motor that churns out 10,500 RPMs. It has a max cutting depth of 1-5/8 inches and 90° and 1-1/6 inches when beveled to 45°. The high-speed diamond blade delivers fast and smooth cuts in tile, brick, stone, and glass.
For wet cuts, the Ryobi PBLHTS01 features an integrated water delivery system with an adjustable flow, which offers a continuous flow for OSHA Table 1 compliance. Ryobi includes a 20.5-ounce water tank as well as a 12-foot water supply hose that attaches directly to a standard 3/4-inch hose bib.
For dry cuts, there’s a 1 1/2-inch dust port on the rear of the blade guard, so you can attach a dust extractor.
Ryobi Handheld Tile Saw Design Notes
- Model: Ryobi PBLHTS01
- Power Source: Ryobi 18V battery
- Weight: 6.2 lbs. (bare), 7.8 lbs. (with 4.0Ah High Performance battery)
- Length: 12.5 in.
- Height: 8.25 in.
This tile saw weighs in at 6.2 pounds as a bare tool and 7.8 pounds with a 4.0Ah High-Performance battery. It measures 12.5 inches from tip to tail and stands 8.25 inches tall.
Overall, we like the feel and balance of this saw. It reminds me a lot of the Ryobi 18V 6-1/2 inch circular saw. The handle is draped in with textured rubber overmold for added grip, and the blade-left design makes it easy to keep the blade on track. Additionally, there are alignment guides on the stainless steel shoe as well as slots for use with an edge guide.
One key difference between this saw and a traditional circular saw is this saw doesn’t have a front pommel grip for additional stability. While it’s not a dealbreaker, this simply means you’ll have to operate this saw one-handed. With that said, it might take a few cuts to get in a groove, so we suggest practicing on a spare piece of tile before starting your project.
Additional Features
- On-board tool storage
- LED work light
Ryobi Handheld Tile Saw Price
The Ryobi PBLHTS01 retails for $199 as a bare tool and $259 as a kit. The kit includes a 4.0Ah High-Performance battery and a single-port charger. Ryobi backs this saw with a 3-year warranty.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the Ryobi handheld tile saw is incredibly useful. Its compact design and powerful motor make it a great option for making quick, precise cuts on-site instead of making the trip out to the full-sized saw. The ergonomics do take some getting used to, but we think it’s the cordless benefits that shine through and add a layer of convenience that other models don’t.
