Ryobi Cable Stapler Joins the 18V Platform for Electrical Work
While Ryobi has a reputation as a value brand for homeowners and DIYers, it’s also offered its fair share of Prosumer solutions over the years. However, we can’t think of a time when they have marketed directly to Pros, so color us surprised when Ryobi announced the 18V Cable Stapler for electrical and cable runs.
Since electrical work is not something most DIYers should tackle, I can’t help but wonder if this is a signal Ryobi is moving solidly into the entry-level Pro market. I’ll share what I’ve discovered about the cable stapler while comparing it against similar models from other brands and see if that hypothesis holds up.
Ryobi 18V Cable Stapler: Overview
- Model: Ryobi PCL336
- Weight: 4.4 lbs (bare)
- Staples Per Charge: 1900
- Magazine Capacity: 40 Staples
- Staple Length: 1 in
- Cable Compatibility: 4-10Ga NM-B sheathed cable; CAT3, CAT5, and Coax wires
- Staple Compatibility: Ryobi Cable Shield Staples
Ryobi tells us the new PCL336 cable stapler offers up to twice the installation speed compared to manual stapling methods. It’s powered by an 18V One+ battery (sold separately), and you can drive up to 1900 staples using a 2.0Ah pack.
The PCL336 is compatible only with Ryobi’s proprietary 1-inch Cable Shield Insulated Cable Staples. These staples are compatible with a variety of cable types. These include 4-gauge to 10-gauge NM-B sheathed cable for residential wiring, CAT3 and CAT5 wires for telephone and LAN installation, as well as coaxial cables for cable TV and internet establishment.
The magazine holds up to 40 staples at a time. Each pack of Cable Shield staples contains 600 staples, or up to 15 reloads per pack.
Additional Features
- Staple Viewing Window: Keep track of your staple levels to avoid unexpected reloads
- LED Work Light: Improves visibility in low-light conditions for precise staple placement
- Movable Cable Guide: Ensures proper staple alignment over cables
How Does It Compare?
The big deal with this model is its target audience. Electrical and cable runs are typically not a DIY application (and we do not recommend doing electrical work if you’re not trained in that field). Ryobi is very well situated in the Prosumer class, but this might be the most direct Pro tool we’ve seen them release.
At the time I’m writing, there aren’t a ton of cable-specific staplers on the market from major manufacturers. The two you’re most likely to recognize are from Milwaukee and DeWalt, so I wanted to compare the PCL336 against those tools side-by-side for some additional context.
| Ryobi PCL336 (this model) | Milwaukee M12 2448 | DeWalt DCN701 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power Source | 18V One+ Battery | M12 Battery | 20V Max Battery |
| Runtime | 1900 staples w/ 2.0Ah battery | 1200 staples w/ 2.0Ah battery | 1600 staples w/ 2.0Ah battery |
| Magazine Size | 40 staples | 40 staples | 34 staples |
| Staple Size | 1 inch | 1 inch | 1 inch |
| Bare Weight | 4.4 lbs | 4.6 lbs | 4.7 lbs |
| Weight w/Battery | 5.4 lbs w/2.0Ah battery | 5.0 lbs w/2.0Ah battery | 5.6 lbs w/2.0Ah battery |
| Price | $219 bare | $279 bare | $299 bare |
Ryobi 18V Cable Stapler Price
This cable stapler retails for $219 for the bare tool. Ryobi currently doesn’t offer any kit configurations, so be sure to pick up a spare battery and charger if you’re not already on the 18V One+ platform. Ryobi backs your purchase with a 3-year warranty.
The 1-inch Cable Shield Insulated Cable Staples come in a 600-count box, which retails for $17.97
Should You Buy It?
If you’re an electrician, IT tech, or cable/data installer, you may have previously overlooked Ryobi tools in favor of a more Pro-targeted brand. However, that might change with the introduction of the PCL336 cable stapler. At a lower price point than Milwaukee and DeWalt, it’s tempting if you’re not already using one of those platforms.
Does this mean Ryobi will continue adding Pro-focused tools to its 18V One+ lineup? For now, we can only speculate. With how far the HP Brushless line has come and the possibility of more trade-focused tools like this, it doesn’t seem like a big jump to make.
