Ryobi 18V Cordless Router Receives a Brushless Motor Upgrade and a More Durable Build
In early 2023, we tested Ryobi’s updated PCL424 cordless trim router, and I must admit, it did not disappoint! Now, I’ve got my hands on Ryobi’s latest HP Brushless Cordless Router to see how it compares to the previous model and put it to the test here in our shop.
Pros
- Excellent power under load
- Fast electric brake
- Robust design
- Clear sightline to the bit
- Compact barrel design
- Variable speed dial
- Wide range of speeds
Cons
- No significant drawbacks
Ryobi Cordless Router Performance
- No-Load Speed: 15,000-30,000 RPM
- Speed Modes: 6
- Max Bit Diameter: 1-1/2 in.
- Collet: 1/4 in.
- Motor Type: Brushless
Speed and Power
Ryobi’s latest cordless router features a brushless motor and six speed settings that range from 15,000 RPMs up to 30,000 RPMs. That kind of speed puts it in line with the Milwaukee 2723 and the Flex FX4221 compact routers.
In our hands-on testing, the Ryobi PBLRR01 displayed some real power, even on tougher routing tasks. I easily alternated between large round-over, edge, and dovetail bits and felt very little resistance in medium-density woods.
Next, I upped the ante and threw in a 1/2-inch rabbet bit to see how it would handle the added pressure. To my delight, it performed beautifully, giving me a lot of confidence in this tool’s abilities to handle higher-demand tasks that taxed previous versions.
It’s still a compact router, though, so if you are consistently doing more complex and demanding routing projects, consider adding the Ryobi 2HP Peak Plunge Router (RE180PL1G) as a supplement.
Need router bits? Click here to check out Ryobi’s 24-piece router bit set!
Ryobi Cordless Router Design Notes
- Model: Ryobi PBLRR01
- Power Source: Ryobi 18V battery
- Weight: 3.1 lbs (bare tool), 4.0 lbs (with kitted High Performance 2.0Ah battery)
- Tool Length: 6-7/8 in. (without battery)
- Dust Port: 1-1/4 in. and 1-7/8 in.
Size and Weight
The Ryobi PBLRR01 clocks in at a respectable 3.1 pounds as a bare tool and 4 pounds even with the kitted 2.0Ah High Performance battery. This is slightly heavier than its brushed predecessor, the Ryobi PCL424, which weighs 2.6 pounds as a bare tool. The main contributing factors here are the PBLRR01’s die-cast components and brushless motor.
Ergonomics
As far as form is concerned, Ryobi didn’t stray too far from the pack or its previous designs. The tool stands 6-7/8 inches tall without the battery, and 8-1/8 inches with the kitted 2.0Ah battery in place. The grip and motor housing both feature a textured rubber overmold for added comfort and security. Plus, the grip area has smooth curves that allow your hands to conform to the shape of the tool.
One design element that I really love is that the controls are centrally located on the front of the tool. This allows you to make quick speed and depth adjustments with minimal movement.
Adjustments
Ryobi sticks with a standard micro depth adjustment dial. This allows for movements as small as 1/64th of an inch. A quick-release lever doubles as a spring-loaded release handle for making macro adjustments before you use the micro-adjust dial to fine-tune your depth. There’s also a depth guide on the tool to help you improve your accuracy during complex routing tasks.
Ryobi Cordless Router: Quick Model Comparison
| PCL424 (old) | PBLRR01 (new) | |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 2.6 lbs | 3.1 lbs |
| No-Load Speed | 20k-30k RPMs | 15k-30k RPMs |
| Motor Type | Brushed | Brushless |
| Bare Tool Price | $99 | $129 |
Additional Features
- LED work lights
- Compatible with all Ryobi 18V batteries
Ryobi Cordless Router Price
The Ryobi PBLRR01 retails for $129 as a bare tool, and $179 as a kit. The kit includes a 2.0Ah High Performance battery and charger. Both options include a collet wrench, edge guide, and a vacuum dust adapter. Ryobi backs these tools with a 3-year warranty.
The Bottom Line
Even though Ryobi’s updates on this router look subtle at first glance, they are meaningful. Its brushless motor upgrade and new die-cast components greatly improve the PBLRR01’s performance as well as its overall durability and longevity. It does add a little extra weight, but I believe what you gain makes up for that. Overall, I think this is a great option for serious DIYers, and even value-minded Pros who occasionally have need for a router.
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