Ryobi USB Lithium Cleaning Lineup Grows with New Vacuum Design
Ryobi has perhaps the largest lineup of cleaning products of any major tool manufacturer. This is a nice benefit for users who want to supplement their normal cleaning routines with the convenience of battery-powered tools. If you’re a homeowner/renter looking for something to tackle small dry messes, Ryobi may have what you need with the USB Lithium HP Compact Hand Vacuum. I’ll show you what this unusual vacuum offers compared to other Ryobi cleaning solutions to help you decide if it’s right for you.
Ryobi USB Lithium HP Compact Hand Vacuum Performance
- Model: Ryobi FVG65K
- Max airflow: 16 CFM
- Max sealed suction: 42 IOW
- Max runtime: 14 mins
- Power source: (2) Ryobi USB Lithium batteries
- 2 power settings
- Brushless motor
The FVG65K is the second vacuum on Ryobi’s USB Lithium platform, and you might have noticed it has the “HP” designation. It features a brushless motor powered by the two included 2.0Ah USB Lithium batteries. That’s not something we’re used to seeing from anyone’s 4V battery systems, and there are some real benefits.
For starters, Ryobi claims it delivers the highest suction in its class (vacuums under 1.3 pounds), at up to 42 IOW and 16 CFM. Additionally, the brushless motor will use its battery power more efficiently and give you a longer service life.
The vac has two power settings: normal and max. Pressing the power button automatically starts the vacuum in normal mode. There’s also a max mode button that lets you reach the top IOW and CFM specs.
With both batteries fully charged, this tool can run for up to 14 minutes on normal, which should be plenty of time to clean up the small messes it’s designed for.
Note that this vacuum is rated for dry debris only, so you can’t use it to clean up spilled liquids. If you’re looking for a hand vacuum that can clean both wet and dry messes, consider moving up to the PCL702 on Ryobi’s 18V One+ platform.
Ryobi USB Lithium Compact Hand Vacuum Design
- Weight: 1.3 lbs
- Charging docking station
- Includes several attachments
- Easy-empty dust cup
- Dust tank capacity: 5 oz
- LED battery indicator
With both batteries installed, the Ryobi FVG65 weighs an impressively low 1.3 pounds. It has a very slim form factor, at only 3 inches wide and 17 inches long.
With the USB Lithium batteries installed, you can charge them onboard using the included dock. This lets you keep the vacuum charged without removing the batteries, so you can grab it and go when you need to clean up a mess quickly.
The FVG65K includes two vacuum accessories: a 2-in-1 crevice tool/dust brush and an upholstery tool. The dock also has storage slots for both accessories.
Since this model is so compact, its dust canister is also on the small side, with a capacity of just over 5 oz. It features a quick-empty sliding design to make it easy to empty it out when you’re done cleaning.
Ryobi USB Lithium Compact Hand Vacuum Price
This vacuum comes as part of a kit, selling for $99.98 with two batteries included. If you’d like, The Home Depot also offers a kit that includes two extra filters for $111, or if you’re after an extra battery, there’s a 3-battery kit for $123. Whichever kit you choose, Ryobi backs your purchase with a 2-year warranty.
Should You Buy It?
Ryobi has really been amping up its USB Lithium lineup recently. While this system isn’t meant to replace the brand’s 18V platform, these 4V tools are convenient for those with limited space who don’t need top-level performance. The FVG65 vacuum is one example, offering a sleek, compact design with enough suction to take care of small dry messes around your home or vehicle.
The charging dock is the icing on the cake, ensuring that you don’t have to remove the batteries to keep it charged up.
However, if you’re after something a little larger to keep household messes at bay, consider stepping up to the 18V One+ system. The PCL704 Hand Vacuum offers a similar price point, with more canister room and higher performance to clean up mid-size messes.