Ryobi Vs Dewalt
Whether you’re planning to kickstart a new business, upgrade the existing one, or undertake minor DIY work, investing in the best power tools is crucial to obtain excellent results.
But which brand’s tools are worth investing in? If you’re wondering about this (which you must be), your search will likely narrow down to RYOBI and DeWalt.
These two global brands are a great hit among DIYers and professionals, not because of their extensive tool range but because of their amazing customer service and other factors.
However, because of the various similarities between the two brands (as you’ll understand later), it often becomes confusing for many which one to pick.
After extensive research and expert consultation, I’ve created this comparison piece to make you understand the difference between the two brands and pick the one that suits your needs.
As we advance, I’ll compare the brands based on different parameters, including history, price, performance, customer support, and more.
RYOBI Vs. DeWalt - A Quick Comparison
The following table compares the two brands.
| Parameters | RYOBI | DeWalt |
| History | Founded in 1968 | Founded in 1923 |
| Performance | Medium performing tools | High performing tools |
| Proprietary Technology | Less advanced | More advanced |
| Warranty | Three-year manufacturer’s warranty | Three-year limited warranty, one-year free service, and 90-day money-back guarantee |
| Price | Affordable | Expensive |
| Product Lines/Series | Brushless Compact series, One+ System, and outdoor tools | Cordless, 20V Max System, and FLEXVOLT |
| Manufacturing Plants | 6 countries | 7 countries |
RYOBI Vs. DeWalt - An Detailed Comparison
Let’s compare the two power tool brands and see who emerges as the winner. Here’s a quick look at each’s history first.
A Look At The History
RYOBI
Ryobi Seisakusho Co., Ltd was founded in 1943. But did you know it didn’t start as a power tool brand but as a components manufacturer for automobiles, electronics, and telecommunications then? Yes, you read that right!
Besides, the company also dealt with printing equipment and building products in its initial years. It was in 1968 when RYOBI ventured into the power tools industry. Since then, it has continued to be a reliable and affordable tool manufacturing company among professionals, DIYers, and hobbyists.
Note: RYOBI is based in Japan.
The name we all know today was changed in 1973, and by that time, it started 12 manufacturing units in six nations. In 1985, RYOBI stepped into another venture and started a manufacturing site in Shelbyville, Indiana, and it was the only manufacturing unit in the United States.
It was 1988 when the power tool business of RYOBI started getting recognition when they took all the assets of the Diehl Motor Company. Currently, RYOBI manufactures cordless and corded power tools and hand tools like saw blades and drill bits that cater to crafters of all skill levels.
So, whether you’re a beginner or a professional, you can try out their collection.
DeWalt
DeWalt is another famous power tool brand most professionals favor, unlike DIYers. This brand is an American company that comes under Stanley Black & Decker, its parent company.
DeWalt was officially founded by Raymond E. DeWalt in 1923 and was sold to Black and Decker in 1960.
Note: DeWalt got recognition in 1941 when it got an order to build wartime and defense machinery for soldiers, which further led to its exponential growth.
In 1992, DeWalt introduced its first series of movable electric power tools, especially for residential purposes. Two years later, in 1994, DeWalt developed 30 new cordless tools, creating a revolution and stamping their authority. By 2001, DeWalt successfully manufactured over 200 electric power tools and associated accessories.
Manufacturing Plants
RYOBI
Being a global brand, RYOBI has manufacturing plants set up in six countries. And one of their central plants is located in Shelbyville, Indiana, the US. However, this one unit manufactured tons of tools only till the 20s.
If you’re looking for an RYOBI tool exclusively manufactured in the United States, then it’s not your company. And if you’d ask why, it’s because most of the RYOBI tools and parts are today made in China, as the manufacturing cost and labor is cheaper there. This helps RYOBI to keep an affordable price for its customers.
DeWalt
DeWalt’s tools are primarily made in America. And its other manufacturing plants are in Brazil, China, Mexico, the United Kingdom, the Czech Republic, and Italy.
In the US, manufacturing facilities are situated in cities such as South Carolina, Connecticut, Tennessee, Kentucky, Maryland, and North Carolina.
Note: A few accessories and tools are not manufactured in the United States. But if you’re looking for US-made power tools, then you can go for DeWalt as the company ensures to build tools within the United States regardless of location.
Price
RYOBI
RYOBI is famous for its lower price range. Most of its tools are categorized under the 18V One+ System series, meaning an identical battery is used. Thus, you need not invest in separate batteries for all your tools.
However, RYOBI also offers some premium and advanced tools to cater to professionals, such as the One+ Brushless Compact series, which is more expensive than the other.
DeWalt
When it comes to cost, be prepared to spend a little more even on DeWalt’s budget products which are costlier than RYOBI’s premium tools.
However, the above is true for their 20V MAX System products. These are bulky, heavy-duty, and not designed for DIYers or beginners.
Prominent Product Lines/Series
RYOBI
RYOBI manufactures affordable, compact, and easy-to-operate power tools, and thus, they are specially designed for residential usage. Below are some of its top product lines/series.
Brushless Compact Series
With the brushless technology gaining popularity in the tools industry, RYOBI has incorporated it into most of its modern tools. Thus, the series is called the “Brushless Compact Series,” in which tools are built compact, lightweight, and brushless.
Note: Brushless motors are more efficient and last longer than motors with brushes.
One+ System
One+ System is the exclusive product line of RYOBI with high-end prices. All tools in this series have the same battery, charger, and accessories for ultimate performance—for example, RYOBI 18V One+ Miter Saw.
Outdoor Power Tools
RYOBI manufactures many outdoor tools such as blowers, pressure washers, and much more. These tools are also handy, affordable, and perfect for hobbyists and DIYers.
DeWalt
DeWalt is famous for its high-performing, durable, and professional-grade tools, irrespective of the product type. Below are some of its top product lines/series.
FLEXVOLT
Another popular series of DeWalt is one with the FLEXVOLT battery system, in which you won’t need different chargers for your tools. One charger is enough for all the power tools you own in this series.
Cordless
DeWalt manufactures corded and cordless tools, such as saws, drillers, etc. All the cordless tools of DeWalt are lightweight, portable, and compact. Thus, you can work with them on the go without worrying about the power plug or in tight spaces.
20V MAX System
DeWalt has a unique range of products under its 20V MAX System series. These tools are potent and durable, making them suitable for those who need extra powerful tools.
As the name suggests, all products in the 20V MAX System series line produce maximum power.
Proprietary Technology
RYOBI
The technology used in the machinery by any company creates its credibility and popularity. RYOBI is famous for its One+ System tech powered by 18V lithium-ion batteries. This product series offers tools that have 18V power and work with the same battery and charger.
DeWalt
On the other hand, DeWalt batteries are considered the best on the market as they have FLEXVOLT and DeWalt 20V Max tech infused in them.
Note: Some latest and premium tools of DeWalt have a Tool Connect feature which enables your power tool to become Bluetooth-ready. When enabled, you can connect your DeWalt power tools to the Tool Connect app and track them on your phone across multiple job sites.
Speed
RYOBI
In RYOBI, you won’t find multiple speed settings with almost all its products fitted with the standard 12V battery. Thus, you can expect up to 600-800 RPMs, which is sufficient for almost all projects, in my opinion.
DeWalt
Talking about DeWalt, you get 2-speed settings in your power tools. While the first setting gives you up to 400RPM for basic tasks, the other delivers up to 1500 RPM for complex tasks.
DeWalt offers better control over speed and higher RPM.
Some other comparables include each brand’s warranty and customer service, as discussed below.
Warranty
Warranty is one of the essential factors to consider after price because power tools are expensive. Regardless of price, RYOBI and DeWalt offer similar warranties, i.e., a 3-year limited warranty on all power tools.
Note: DeWalt products claim a “No Break Guarantee.”
Customer Support System
The customer support system of any brand ensures its credibility. Not only it offers help regarding the brand’s products, but it answers all the relevant questions you might have in mind concerning the brand as well.
Among all the brands I’ve come across so far, RYOBI and DeWalt have excellent customer support systems in place.
But DeWalt has a more well-built and impressive system than RYOBI. The latter doesn’t offer a customer support warranty like DeWalt, which, along with the warranty, offers 1-year free multi-channel customer support.
My Verdict - RYOBI Vs. DeWalt
I know you’re waiting for my final verdict. So, here it is.
While both RYOBI and DeWalt have so much in common regarding products, warranty, and price, DeWalt emerges as the clear winner if we talk about customer service. Additionally, the Tool Connect feature in DeWalt products is amazing.
So, if you’re a DIYer or hobbyist, I’d recommend you RYOBI, and for professional crafters who deal with complex projects across various job sites, DeWalt is worth relying on.
Conclusion
Here you go. The above comparison clearly states that RYOBI and DeWalt are the leading power tools brands. However, they majorly differ from each other in terms of pricing and performance.
If you’re professional and need high-performing and durable tools, then you can go for DeWalt. On the other hand, if you’re looking for tools that are affordable and suited for small projects or residential purposes, then RYOBI is the best option.