Published Jul 24, 2026, 7:39 AM EDT Cory Gunther is a senior author and Newsletter Editor at Valnet, covering cutting-edge tech, Android, and more for How-To Geek. He's covered Android, cars, and technology for over a decade. When he's not reviewing the latest gadget, you can find him off-roading in his Toyota truck, fixing said truck, or doing something outdoors with friends and family. He's covered CES, SEMA, and MWC and reviewed countless phones, TVs, speakers, EVs, e-bikes, and more. Before Valnet, Cory worked for GottaBeMobile. His writing has also appeared on SlashGear, InputMag, and AndroidCentral. He's written over 9,000 articles. If you're a new homeowner getting ready to start projects or maintain your home, you'll need some capable new power tools. And while there are multiple brands to choose from, Ryobi is a fan favorite for its affordability and being readily available at Home Depot. Tools are essential for keeping up with a house, doing projects, hanging pictures and shelves, or renovating that laundry room. Ryobi's 18V One+ line offers over 300+ tools that all run on the same battery pack. Meaning once you get started, upgrades and future purchases are easier than ever. With that in mind, here are a few solid Ryobi picks to get you started. Ryobi 18V ONE+ Drill/Driver Combo The most essential addition to a tool set The first thing you'll want to do is go out and buy a Ryobi 18V HP drill and driver combo set, preferably one with a battery pack or two, and a charger. This is an essential kit that you'll use the most. Don't get the cheap $99 drill; get one that has "HP" in the name, which stands for high performance and indicates a newer brushless motor, improved performance, and longer runtime. A good cordless drill is ideal for putting together IKEA furniture, building shelves, installing gates, drilling pilot holes, and so on. And the driver in this kit is what you'll want when you're driving a lot of screws or fasteners during a project, rather than relying solely on the drill. Drivers deliver more torque, making "driving" screws faster and easier. Ryobi ONE+ HP 1/2-inch Drill and Driver Combo Kit What's Included Battery Included, Charger, Tool Bag Tool Type Driver and Impact Driver This Ryobi 18V HP kit is all you need to get started around the house. With a 1.2-inch drill, impact driver, two battery packs, a charger, and a carry case. Tackle all those projects! Warranty 3-Year Manufacturer's Warranty Even if you don't need it today, you'll be glad to have it later Credit: Ryobi While a lot of different tools could go on this initial list, if you're doing any sort of home renovations, demolition to rebuild a room, or things of that nature, you'll absolutely want an Oscillating tool. And again, you can get a cheap one for $50, but I'd recommend spending a little more, if you can, on the newer, better 18V HP model. A multi-tool saw (also known as an oscillating multi-tool) is a versatile, compact tool with interchangeable head attachments for cutting, grinding, sanding, scraping, and more. It's an essential tool for home repairs or remodeling. Ryobi ONE+ 18V Oscillating Multi-Tool Special features Cushioned Grip, Keyless Blade Change, LED Light, Lock On Switch, Variable Speed Tool Type Oscillating Multi-Tool A reciprocating OST multi-tool is great for projects that require cutting, sanding, or scraping. Get one today and have it ready for when you truly need it. Cordless? Yes Warranty 3-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty Ryobi Multi-Surface Laser Level Grab one of these before you start hanging things on your walls Credit: Ryobi Once you have a few essentials, like a drill and driver, any new homeowner should invest in a few smaller tools like multi-surface levels and stud finders. Whether you're installing picture frames on the wall or laying some new tile, Ryobi's multi-surface laser level makes things quick and easy. Use the bubbles to keep your lines straight, and the laser to shoot across walls and floors. It even comes with three different accessories for hands-free use on walls and such. Trust me, pay more than $10 and get a good level. Ryobi Multi-Surface Laser Level Special features Hand-Held, Magnetic Tool Type Level From picture frames to installing shelves in a closet, a laser level will ensure the job gets done fast, easily, and right. Ryobi 18V ONE+ Hackzall (Reciprocating Saw) Cut through anything Credit: Ryobi Last but certainly not least, you'll want a good all-purpose saw that can cut just about anything. I'm talking about PVC pipes, wood from an overgrown tree, metal, copper, drywall, stubborn metal bolts, and so much more. You've all probably seen or heard of a sawzall, but Milwaukee and Ryobi now make something very similar to a sawzall that's faster, more powerful, and capable, and more importantly, easy to use one-handed. That tool is called a Hackzall, and you'll want one. Every homeowner needs a good circular saw, but a reciprocating saw is also extremely useful for a wide variety of tasks. I still have an old blue Ryobi sawzall, but I reach for my affordable little Hackzall more often. It's lightweight, easy to use one-handed, and cuts through almost anything. Ryobi 18V One-Handed Reciprocating Saw Special features Cushioned Grip, Variable Speed Tool Type Hackzall Make quick work of wood, walls, branches, and more with Ryobi's new lightweight one-handed reciprocating saw for only $79. Warranty 3-Year Manufacturer's Warranty Build your toolkit now, you won't regret it later These are a few essential tools that I've used the most in the first year after buying a new home, and there's a good chance you'll want a similar selection of cordless power tools. Naturally, every project is different, so you might need an impact wrench, a brad nailer, or small handheld tools like a decent screwdriver set and a Ryobi tape measure. Ryobi also offers a smaller USB Lithium line of compact handheld tools for smaller jobs, and they're excellent for new homeowners as well. Either way, buy some new tools, stock up on battery packs, and get to work.
4 Ryobi tools every new homeowner should buy from Home Depot
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