Full review
Longer notes from the same comments we summarized above.
What people reported
Owners who already have other Ryobi 40V tools appreciate the convenience of a shared battery system. The blower is described as effective for light tasks, such as clearing dry leaves or a thin layer of powdery snow. Some users noted it works well for clearing thick snow in cold conditions. When used on lower power settings, the battery can last for a decent amount of time, with one owner reporting nearly an hour per battery at 300 CFM. Some users initially liked its power.
Problems people mention
A significant number of owners found the blower underpowered for more demanding jobs. It reportedly struggles with wet leaves, pine needles, and other heavy debris, with one user calling it "pretty much useless" for these tasks. Many expressed a preference for gas blowers due to the Ryobi's perceived lack of power.
Reliability is a major concern. Multiple owners reported issues with the blower not turning on at all, or only running for very short periods (2-7 minutes) even with fully charged batteries. Some units failed within two years, and at least one main switch or motor controller failed just outside warranty. Owners described the product as "total garbage" and "cheaply made."
Battery life on high or turbo settings is notably short, often lasting only about 10 minutes per battery, leading to frustration for those with larger yards. Other complaints include a disliked variable stepped trigger, the blower being heavy with an inadequate harness, and the tip falling off.
Where owners disagree
There is some disagreement regarding its performance in snow. While some found it great for clearing light or even thick snow in cold climates, others expressed concerns about cold weather starting and the potential for snow to cause electrical shorts. This suggests that its effectiveness in snow might depend on specific conditions or usage.
Who it's for
This blower might suit individuals who already own Ryobi 40V tools and need a blower for light-duty tasks like clearing dry leaves or small areas of powdery snow. It is not ideal for those who need to tackle heavy, wet debris, manage large properties, or demand high reliability.
