August 3, 2009

Ryobi TEK4

It looks like Ryobi has a new 4-volt battery on the market and a number of interesting tools to go with it. Rather than looking at the 4-volt battery system as a smaller version of the 18 and 12-volts, they're looking from the bottom up, treating it as more of a pumped up AA battery. This thinking results in some unique tools that have uses beyond home improvement.

A handful of these new tools are measuring devices, an area that both Bosch and Milwaukee have recently moved into as well. With their new system, Ryobi has an infrared thermometer, a distance measure, and a multimeter. They also have a plumb/cross laser lever, a LED flashlight, and a portable power source, which is similar to the Milwaukee 12-volt Power Port that we're big fans of.

In the 'things we've never seen before' category, Ryobi is offering a 4-volt camera, noise suppression headphones, a motion sensor with an alarm, and a digitally keyed lock.

It's all very interesting and with Ryobi's placement at the giant orange store, this is likely to be a winner of a line. Hopefully, Ryobi's ability to serve up a quality tool at a great price will avoid these items from becoming VPX'd.

More information on Tek4 at Ryobi
TEK4 Tools at Home Depot

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Posted by Tool Snob at August 3, 2009 5:29 AM

Comments

These tools are really nothing more than expensive toys. The noise suppression headphones do a good job, but the other tools feel cheap and are more expensive than similar tools sold at THD. On top of that, the charge time for the 4V batteries is 5 hours with the standard charger! The charge time can be reduced to 36 minutes with the purchase of the optional dual-port charger for $30. I believe these tools will join the ranks of the failed VPX line sooner than later.

Posted by: TL at August 7, 2009 10:15 AM