Best Ryobi Combi Drill of 2026
Ryobi combi drills offer the best value in the cordless power tool market, especially for DIYers and home renovators. We have analysed specs, battery ecosystem, and owner reviews to find the top models for 2026.
Quick answer
The Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Combi Drill is our top pick for 2026, offering the best balance of power, runtime, and value. For a budget-friendly option that still delivers solid performance, the standard Ryobi ONE+ 18V Combi Drill is the clear winner.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
- No fake hands-on claims
Research updated June 2026.
Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Combi Drill
Brushless motor for maximum power and runtime, ideal for demanding DIY tasks.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ryobi ONE+ HP Brushless | Best Overall | 50 Nm, Brushless | 4.5/5 | $$$ |
| Ryobi ONE+ 18V Combi Drill | Best Budget | 45 Nm, Brushed | 4.3/5 | $ |
| Ryobi ONE+ HP Compact Brushless | Best Compact | 40 Nm, Brushless | 4.4/5 | $$ |
| Ryobi ONE+ 18V Impact Driver | Best for Screws | 150 Nm, Brushless | 4.6/5 | $$$ |
| Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless SDS+ | Best for Masonry | 2.1 J, SDS+ | 4.2/5 | $$$ |
Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Combi Drill
Best OverallPros
- Excellent power for drilling and driving
- Long runtime on a single 4Ah battery
- Durable all-metal chuck
Cons
- Heavier than compact alternatives
- Higher price than brushed models
The Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Combi Drill is the flagship model in the Ryobi lineup. Its brushless motor delivers up to 50 Nm of torque, making it suitable for drilling into hardwood, masonry, and driving large screws. Owner reviews consistently praise its power and battery efficiency, with many noting it rivals more expensive brands for DIY use.
The all-metal 13mm chuck provides a secure grip on bits, and the two-speed gearbox offers versatility for different tasks. While it is not the lightest drill, the added power and runtime make it the best choice for users who want a single tool that can handle most jobs around the home and workshop.
Ryobi ONE+ 18V Combi Drill
Best BudgetPros
- Very affordable, great entry-level price
- Solid torque for most DIY tasks
- Compatible with all Ryobi ONE+ batteries
Cons
- Brushed motor is less efficient
- Noisier and less powerful than brushless
The standard Ryobi ONE+ 18V Combi Drill is the most popular model in the range, and for good reason. It offers a very capable 45 Nm of torque from a brushed motor, which is sufficient for drilling into softwood, plasterboard, and light metal. Owner reviews highlight its value, with many users saying it handles everything a typical homeowner needs.
The brushed motor means it is less efficient than the HP version, so runtime is shorter, and it is slightly louder. However, the price is significantly lower, making it the ideal choice for someone starting their tool collection or on a tight budget. The 13mm metal chuck is a welcome feature at this price point.
Ryobi ONE+ HP Compact Brushless Combi Drill
Best CompactPros
- Very lightweight and compact design
- Good power for its size
- Ideal for overhead work and tight spaces
Cons
- Lower torque than full-size models
- Smaller chuck capacity can be limiting
The Ryobi ONE+ HP Compact Brushless Combi Drill is designed for users who prioritise portability and ease of use. Weighing just 1.2 kg with a 2Ah battery, it is significantly lighter than the standard models, making it perfect for overhead drilling or working in confined spaces. Despite its size, the brushless motor delivers a respectable 40 Nm of torque.
Owner reviews often mention how comfortable it is to use for extended periods. The compact size does mean it has less raw power than the larger drills, so it is not ideal for heavy masonry or large diameter holes. However, for furniture assembly, cabinet making, and general light DIY, it is an excellent choice.
Ryobi ONE+ 18V Brushless Impact Driver
Best for ScrewsPros
- Extremely high torque for driving screws
- Compact and lightweight design
- Excellent for decking and framing
Cons
- Not suitable for drilling holes
- Can be too powerful for delicate work
While not a combi drill, the Ryobi ONE+ 18V Brushless Impact Driver is the best tool for driving screws and bolts. With a staggering 150 Nm of torque, it can sink large lag screws into hardwood with ease. Owner reviews rave about its power and speed, making it a favourite for decking, fencing, and framing projects.
It uses a 1/4-inch hex chuck, which accepts standard screwdriver bits. It is not designed for drilling holes, so you will still need a combi drill for that task. Many users pair it with a combi drill for a complete DIY setup. The brushless motor ensures long runtime and durability.
Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless SDS+ Rotary Hammer
Best for MasonryPros
- Powerful hammer action for masonry
- Three modes for versatility
- Good value for an SDS drill
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than combi drills
- Brushed motor is less efficient
For serious masonry work, the Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless SDS+ Rotary Hammer is the tool to choose. It delivers 2.1 J of impact energy, making it capable of drilling into concrete, brick, and stone. Owner reviews note that it handles anchor holes and larger masonry bits much better than a standard combi drill in hammer mode.
It features three operating modes: rotary only, hammer only, and rotary hammer. This versatility allows it to be used for light chiselling as well as drilling. It is larger and heavier than a combi drill, so it is not a general-purpose tool, but for specific masonry tasks, it is far superior.
What to Check Before Buying a Ryobi Combi Drill
Choosing the right Ryobi combi drill depends on your specific needs and budget. The most important factor is the motor type. Brushless motors are more efficient, powerful, and durable than brushed motors, but they cost more. For regular DIY use, a brushless model is a worthwhile investment. For occasional use, a brushed model offers excellent value.
Battery compatibility is another key consideration. All Ryobi ONE+ tools use the same 18V battery platform, so any battery you own will work with any Ryobi ONE+ tool. This ecosystem is a major advantage, allowing you to start with a drill and expand your collection without buying new batteries. Consider starting with a kit that includes a 4Ah battery for good runtime.
Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Combi Drill
A common mistake is buying a combi drill that is too powerful or too heavy for the tasks you actually do. A heavy drill can be tiring to use for overhead work or for long periods. Assess the typical jobs you will be doing. If you are mostly assembling flat-pack furniture and drilling into plasterboard, a compact model is more suitable than a high-torque beast.
Another mistake is ignoring the chuck quality. A plastic chuck can wear out and slip over time. Always look for a model with a metal chuck, as it provides a more secure grip on drill bits and lasts much longer. All the Ryobi models featured here have metal chucks, which is a sign of good build quality.
FAQs
Are Ryobi combi drills any good?
Yes, Ryobi combi drills offer excellent value for DIY and home renovation, with a wide range of models to suit different budgets and tasks.
What is the difference between a combi drill and an impact driver?
A combi drill can drill holes and drive screws, while an impact driver is designed solely for driving screws and bolts with high torque.
Do all Ryobi ONE+ batteries work with all Ryobi tools?
Yes, all Ryobi ONE+ 18V batteries are fully compatible with all Ryobi ONE+ 18V tools, including all combi drills.
What is the best Ryobi combi drill for heavy duty use?
The Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Combi Drill is the best for heavy duty DIY, offering 50 Nm of torque and a brushless motor.
Is a brushless motor worth the extra cost?
Yes, brushless motors are more efficient, powerful, and durable, making them a better long-term investment for regular users.
Can I use a Ryobi combi drill for masonry?
Yes, in hammer mode, but for heavy masonry work, a dedicated SDS+ rotary hammer is much more effective.
What size battery should I get with my Ryobi drill?
A 4Ah battery offers a good balance of runtime and weight for most DIY tasks. Larger 5Ah or 6Ah batteries provide longer runtime but add weight.
How long do Ryobi batteries last?
Ryobi ONE+ batteries typically last for several years with proper care, and the number of charge cycles is high for the price.
What is the warranty on Ryobi tools?
Ryobi tools typically come with a 3-year warranty, but this can vary by region and retailer.
Are Ryobi drills better than DeWalt or Makita?
Ryobi drills offer better value for money for DIY users, while DeWalt and Makita are generally more powerful and durable for professional use.
Our verdict
For most DIY users in 2026, the Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Combi Drill is the best overall choice, offering the perfect blend of power, runtime, and value. If you are on a tight budget, the standard Ryobi ONE+ 18V Combi Drill is still an excellent performer for light to medium tasks.