Ryobi Cordless Polisher: The Perfect Lightweight and Affordable Solution for Professionals
Ryobi is renowned for its ability to provide professional-grade performance and functionality at unbeatable prices. The Ryobi 18V One+ Cordless Dual Action Polisher is no exception. We took the opportunity to test it out and see if it lives up to its reputation.
Advantages of the Ryobi Cordless Polisher
- Lightweight design
- Variable speed motors for versatility in various applications
- Low vibration for enhanced comfort
- More budget-friendly compared to other cordless dual action polishers
Considerations to Keep in Mind
- Brushed motors may not be as efficient as brushless motors
Step into the 21st century with the Ryobi PBF100 polisher, which eliminates the need for the old-fashioned manual waxing method made famous by Mr. Miyagi. Our resident rancher and car maintenance enthusiast, Eli Mosley, gave it a try for his ranch vehicle maintenance and bid farewell to waxing his hands.
“What is a Dual Action Polisher?” you may ask. Dual action polishers combine forced rotation and orbital motion into one powerful action. Unlike random orbital polishers, dual action polishers drive both the rotation and orbital motion, resulting in consistent and superior outcomes.
The Ryobi PBF100 features a brushed motor that delivers an impressive 3,000 to 7,500 revolutions per minute (with an 8mm throw) and a power spin that enables dual action. This combination of orbital motion and forced rotation effectively reduces heat buildup and minimizes the potential for swirl marks.
If you’re new to power polishers, here’s a general speed guide (also conveniently printed on the tool itself):
- Finishing: 3,000 – 3,800 OPM
- Calibration: 3,800 – 5,800 OPM
- Cutting: 5,800 – 7,500 OPM
When Eli utilized the Ryobi polisher to apply a fresh coat of Brazilian carnauba wax on his truck, he noticed that the finishing pad left a clean path as he worked on the body.
With an impressive runtime of up to 2 hours on the 9.0Ah battery, the Ryobi polisher can handle most full-size vehicles with ease. If you opt for the 4.0Ah battery included in the kit, you can expect around 50 minutes of runtime. Despite the significant difference in runtime, we prefer the 4.0Ah battery due to its weight-saving benefits.
Design Features of the Ryobi Cordless Dual Action Polisher
For speed control, the polisher incorporates a locking slide switch combined with a variable speed dial. Additionally, its detachable helper handle supports multiple grip positions and can be flipped over for left-handed users.
The overall feel of the polisher is reminiscent of Ryobi’s HP brushless angle grinders, featuring a thinner handle for increased maneuverability and control, especially when dealing with delicate body lines.
Furthermore, the bare case of the polisher weighs a mere 3.75 pounds, making it the lightest in its class according to Ryobi. This is a significant advantage if you find yourself buffing for extended periods during your busy day.
Additional Features to Enhance Your Experience
- Battery life indicator
- Anti-scratch bumper
- Hex key storage in secondary handles
Pricing Details for the Ryobi Cordless Dual Action Polisher
The Ryobi PBF100B can be purchased at The Home Depot for $199 without the battery. We strongly recommend investing an additional $30 for the 4.0Ah battery and charger.
The polisher kit includes a 5-inch hook and loop back-up pad, finishing pad, correction pad, cutting pad, helper handle, hex wrench, and wrench. As usual, Ryobi provides a generous 3-year warranty for added peace of mind.
The Verdict: Ryobi Cordless Polisher Delivers on its Promises
Ryobi’s cordless dual-action polisher offers exceptional results along with the design and features typically reserved for more expensive professional-grade models. While it may lack the efficiency of brushless motors, its affordability sets it apart. If you’re searching for a dual-action polisher that provides excellent performance without breaking the bank, the Ryobi PBF100 is the perfect choice.
Specifications of the Ryobi Cordless Dual Action Polisher
- Model: Ryobi PBF100
- Weight without battery: 3.75 lbs.
- Pad Size: 5 inches
- Orbits per minute: 3,000-7,500
- Track Diameter: 1/2″
- Spindle Sizes: 5/16 – 24 inches
- Warranty: 3 years
- Price: $199 without battery, $229 kit