Next-Gen Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless Hammer Drill Doubles Down on Performance
A few years back, we reviewed the Ryobi 18V PBLHM101, which made major strides forward in nearly every category over its predecessor, the P251. Now, we’re diving into the second-generation Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless Hammer Drill (PBLHM102) to see how it compares to the previous model so you can decide if it’s time for an upgrade!
Pros
- Improved drilling power
- Ergonomic grip
- All-metal chuck
- Legitimate Pro-level performance
- Brushless motor
- Affordable price tag
Cons
- No significant drawbacks
Check out our recommendations for the best cordless drills of the year!
Ryobi 18V Hammer Drill Performance
- No-Load Speed: 0-700/2,150 RPM
- Impact Rate: 34,400 BPM
- Max Torque: 850 in-lbs
- Motor Type: Brushless
Drilling Power
At its core, the Ryobi PBLHM102 sports a brushless motor that churns out up to 700 RPMs on low and 2,150 RPMs on high speed. It also produces up to 850 in-lbs of torque and a max hammer rate of 34,400 BPM. These are noticeable improvements over the previous model, and it definitely showed during our hands-on testing.
Hands-On Testing
We put this drill through our standard battery of tests that includes some drilling and driving tasks. These tests help us understand how the PBLHM102 compares to other models we’ve tested. Here are the results:
| Test | PBLHM101 (old) | PBLHM102 (new) | Improvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8-Inch GRK RSS Screw | 6.79 sec | 5.95 sec | 12.4% faster |
| 1-Inch Spade Bit | 4.04 sec | 3.46 sec | 14.4% faster |
| 2 9/16-Inch Self-Feed Bit | 7.59 sec | 4.25 sec | 44.0% faster |
| 3/8-Inch Masonry Bit | 6.43 sec | 6.30 sec | 2.0% faster |
These averages clearly show that Ryobi made some meaningful improvements across the board. Moreover, Ryobi completed two out of four tests at high speed. We did have to drop down to low speed the while driving the RSS screws and using the 2 9/16-inch self-feed bit on our pine 2×4 stud to access Ryobi’s max torque.
What’s telling is that the tougher the application, the more efficient gains you experience. That’s where the additional torque really makes a difference, and becomes a more tempting option for value-minded Pros.
One thing you should note is battery selection. This drill is built around the capabilities of Ryobi’s High Performance 4.0Ah battery. If you go with a standard battery, especially a 2.0Ah, you’ll still get good performance, it just won’t be quite as high. On the other hand, using an Edge battery gives this model even more confidence in demanding applications.
Learn more about Ryobi Edge tabless battery technology!
Ryobi 18V Hammer Drill Design Notes
- Model: Ryobi PBLHM102
- Power Source: Ryobi 18V battery
- Weight: 3.1 lbs (bare tool), 4.75 lbs (with kitted 4.0Ah High Performance battery)
- Head Length: 7.5 in.
Ergonomics
The Ryobi PBLHM102 weighs 3.1 pounds as a bare tool, 4.75 pounds with the kitted High Performance 4.0Ah battery, and measures 7.5 inches from tip to tail. This is nearly identical to its predecessor, the PBLHM101, which weighs 3 pounds as a bare tool and has the exact same length.
Ergonomically, there are no major differences between these tools. The grip is draped in a generous amount of rubber overmold, and there are a few additional rubber bumpers on the tool body for added protection.
Like the previous model, this drill is very well-balanced and easy to maneuver.
See the latest and greatest new Ryobi tools!
Ryobi Brushless Hammer Drill Quick Comparison
As I’ve already mentioned, these tools are nearly identical in size, weight, and overall profile. With that said, there are some clear differences between models when we look at the wider HP Brushless hammer drill profiles. Here’s a quick breakdown to make life a little easier:
| HP Compact (PSBHM01) | HP Brushless (PBLHM101) | HP Brushless (PBLHM102) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | 450/1700 RPM | 500/2100 RPM | 700/2150 RPM |
| Torque | 450 in-lbs | 750 in-lbs | 850 in-lbs |
| Blow Rate | 28,000 BPM | 31,000 BPM | 34,400 BPM |
| Length | 6.5 in. | 7.5 in. | 7.5 in. |
| Bare Weight | 2.25 lbs | 3.0 lbs | 3.1 lbs |
Additional Features
- LED work light
- Compatible with all Ryobi 18V batteries
Ryobi 18V Hammer Drill Price
The Ryobi PBLHM102 retails for $129 as a bare tool and $179 as a kit that includes a High Output 4.0Ah battery, charger, and a storage case. Ryobi backs this drill with a 3-year warranty.
The Bottom Line
After getting some hands-on with this drill, it’s clear that PBLHM102 is a genuine performance upgrade over previous models. In fact, it’s Ryobi’s most powerful hammer drill yet. So the question is, should you buy it?
Well, this drill’s performance level is undoubtedly an improvement, and some of the time differences we experienced were significant. With that said, if you’re happy with your PBLHM101, then I’d stick with it until it’s time to replace it if you’re mainly working on light to moderate applications.
On the other hand, if you often tackle jobs on the more demanding side, you’ll see some real productivity gains from the Ryobi PBLHM102. In that case, I recommend upgrading.
If you’re jumping into Ryobi’s 18V One+ system for the first time, this is the highest-performing model in the line, and it gives you the ability to do nearly anything a Pro would use their hammer drill for. With more than 400 products that work on the same batteries, you’re also getting into a system that has the depth to support you wherever your project journey takes you.
More Ryobi Content
