Image via Ryobi

In this article we review the Ryobi RBL1820S40 cordless leaf blower.

Garden maintenance can be a tedious task, but the Ryobi RBL1820S40 promises to make clearing leaves and debris a breeze.

This 18V ONE+™ Cordless Leaf Blower aims to transform how homeowners approach outdoor cleaning, offering a blend of performance, convenience, and versatility that could revolutionise your garden care routine.

Unboxing

Inside the box, you’ll find the Ryobi OBL1820S 18V cordless leaf blower (tool only), accompanied by the RC18115 1.5A battery charger and a RB18L40 4.0Ah Lithium+ battery. A high-speed nozzle is included as standard equipment. The package comes in an environmentally conscious carton made from over 75% recycled cardboard.

Performance Specifications

Battery and Runtime

The included 4.0Ah lithium-ion battery provides up to 17 minutes of continuous operation at the highest speed setting. While this might seem limited, it’s perfectly adequate for most residential garden maintenance tasks.

The battery is part of Ryobi’s ONE+ system, which is a significant selling point – a single battery can power over 200 different tools, offering exceptional versatility and value.

Use our unique runtime calculator below to estimate the number of charges you need per m2 with the RBL1820S40:

Performance on Wet vs. Dry Leaves

The Ryobi RBL1820S40 demonstrates notable variations in performance between wet and dry leaf conditions. Dry leaves are effortlessly cleared, with the 245 km/h air speed making quick work of light, crisp autumn foliage.

However, wet leaves present a more challenging scenario. While still effective, the blower requires multiple passes and slightly more battery power to dislodge and move wet, compacted leaves.

Wet leaves tend to stick to surfaces and clump together, reducing the blower’s efficiency. Users can expect to spend approximately 25-30% more time clearing wet leaves compared to dry ones. The centrifugal design helps somewhat, but it’s not a miracle solution for heavily sodden garden debris.

Air Power and Efficiency

With an impressive air speed of 245 km per hour and an air volume of 2.6 m³ per minute, the Ryobi RBL1820S40 packs a surprising punch for its size. These specifications translate to efficient debris removal, capable of clearing leaves, grass clippings, and light garden waste with minimal effort.

Design and Build Quality

The Ryobi RBL1820S40 is designed with practicality in mind. Weighing just 2.3 kg with the battery installed, this leaf blower is remarkably lightweight, making it easy to manoeuvre across decks, patios, and driveways.

Its compact design, featuring a detachable blower tube, ensures convenient storage in even the most space-restricted garden sheds or garages.

The centrifugal design speaks to Ryobi’s commitment to targeted performance. Unlike bulky, industrial-grade blowers, this model is specifically optimised for hard surface sweeping, addressing the needs of homeowners with smaller outdoor spaces.

Practical Considerations

Noise and Vibration

With a sound power level of 92.5 dB(A), users should be prepared for typical leaf blower noise levels. Ear protection is recommended during extended use. The vibration level of 0.9 m/s² suggests a relatively smooth operating experience, minimising user fatigue during garden maintenance.

Charging and Maintenance

The RC18115 charger requires approximately 160 minutes to fully charge the battery. While this charging time might seem lengthy, it’s a standard consideration for cordless garden tools. The included charger and battery make this kit particularly appealing for those new to the Ryobi ecosystem.

User Experience

Customer reviews provide valuable insights. With nearly 990 reviews and an impressive 4.7-star rating, the Ryobi RBL1820S40 appears to meet most users’ expectations. Customers highlight its excellent value, powerful performance, and convenience.

One user noted getting about 20 minutes of use with the 4Ah battery, slightly exceeding the manufacturer’s stated runtime. Another described it as a “10 out of 10” tool with a powerful blow, indicating high user satisfaction.

Sustainability and Packaging

Ryobi demonstrates environmental consciousness by supplying the leaf blower in a carton made from over 75% recycled cardboard. The Lithium+ battery technology, featuring IntelliCell design, promises enhanced durability and efficiency, contributing to the product’s long-term sustainability.

Warranty and Support

The Ryobi RBL1820S40 comes with a standard 2-year warranty, extendable to 3 years upon product registration. This additional year of coverage provides extra peace of mind for buyers, reflecting the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Part of the versatile ONE+ battery system
• Lightweight and compact design
• Powerful air performance
• Cordless convenience
• Environmentally conscious packaging
• Excellent customer ratings

Cons

• Limited runtime (17 minutes at max speed)
• Relatively long charging time (160 minutes)
• Noise levels typical of leaf blowers

Price and Value

Priced at £99.99, the Ryobi RBL1820S40 represents good value, especially for those already invested in the ONE+ tool ecosystem.

The kit includes the leaf blower, a 4.0Ah battery, and a charger, making it a comprehensive package for home garden maintenance.

Practical Recommendations

1. For optimal performance, use on dry leaves and solid surfaces
2. Adjust air speed based on surface type and debris
3. Be mindful of noise levels and local regulations
4. Consider timing of use to minimize disruption
5. Use hearing protection during operation

Alternatives to consider

• Makita DUB186Z: Delivers focused air blast through narrow nozzle, ideal for precise cleaning. Three-speed settings and 80-minute runtime on low setting. Particularly effective at handling wet leaves and compressed debris.
• Vonhaus G-series: Budget-friendly option offering powerful performance in a lightweight 1.7kg design. Perfect for small patios and driveways. 12-minute runtime with compatible battery system, though handle vibrates during use.

Conclusion

The Ryobi RBL1820S40 is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a lightweight, efficient cordless leaf blower. Its combination of performance, versatility, and the extensive ONE+ battery system make it a compelling option for garden maintenance.

While it may not be suitable for extensive commercial use or large properties, it excels in its intended environment: clearing leaves and debris from decks, patios, and driveways. For most residential users, this leaf blower offers an impressive balance of power, convenience, and value.

Recommended for: Homeowners with small to medium-sized outdoor spaces, DIY enthusiasts, and those already using Ryobi’s ONE+ tool system.

Further reading:

• Ryobi RBL1820S40 manual (PDF)

FAQs

Ryobi RBL1820S40 any good?

The Ryobi RBL1820S40 is highly rated with 4.7/5 stars from nearly 1,000 reviews. Users praise its power, lightweight design, and value, especially for small to medium gardens. Its 245 km/h airspeed handles dry leaves well, though battery life is limited to 15-20 minutes. Ideal for light residential use.

Is the Ryobi RBL1820S40 reliable?

Users consistently report strong reliability for small gardens, citing good power and lightweight handling. Battery runs 15-20 minutes per charge. Works best on dry leaves, with elderly users particularly appreciating its ease of use.